BLYTHE CITY COUNCIL
* Blythe *
*
SOTABLISHED TIND
AGENDA
May 13, 2025
Closed Session: 5:15 P.M.
Regular Meeting: 6:00 P.M.
MEETINGS ARE HELD IN THE CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER, 235 NORTH BROADWAY, BLYTHE, CA
THE TIE SHUTE CITY OF BLYTHE
Blythe CITY COUNCIL MEETING
May 13, 2025
Closed Session: 5:15pm
Regular Session: 6:00pm
Joseph DeConinck, Mayor
Johnny Rodriguez, Vice Mayo
lospeh Halby, III, Council Membe
Samuel Burton, Council Member
Summer Spraggins, Council Member
CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
PUBLIC COMMENT: Members of the public may address the City Council only on those items listed on the Closed Session agenda. Speakers are asked to identify themselves by stating their name and address for the record. Comments shall be limited to 3 minutes in duration.
CLOSED SESSION:
CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS. Pursuant to Government Code Section 54957.6. Agency Designated Representative: Mallory Crecelius. Employee Organizations:
Mid-Management and Clerical Units.
NOTE TO THE PUBLIC: In compliance with the Americans with Disability Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact 504/ADA Coordinator Mallory Crecelius at (760) 922-6161 EXT. 1237 or by email at [email protected]. Notification 72 business hours prior to the meeting will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to the meeting (28 CFR 35.104 ADA Title II).
Any writings or documents provided to a majority of the City Council regarding any item on this Agenda will be made available for Public inspection in the City Clerk's Office at City Hall, 235 N. Broadway, Blythe, California during normal business hours. In addition, such writings and documents will be posted on the City's website:
www.cityofblythe.ca.gov.
Blythe CITY OF BLYTHE
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
May 13, 2025
6:00pm
CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
Mayor DeConinck Interim City Manager/City Clerk Crecelius Police Chief Dale Vice Mayor Rodriguez Fire Chief Hasler
Council Member Halby Public Works Director Elegores
Council Member Burton
Council Member Spraggins
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
INVOCATION
ADDED STARTER: The City Council may add an item to the Agenda after making a finding that there is a need to take immediate action on the item and that the item came to the attention of the City Council and/or staff subsequent to the posting of the Agenda. An action adding an item to the Agenda requires a 2/3 vote of the City Council (4 of 5 Council Members). If less than 2/3 of the City Council is present, adding an item to the Agenda requires a unanimous vote.
PROCLAMATION: (Item 1)
1. Building Safety Month - May 2025
CONSENT CALENDAR- (Items 2-13)
All matters listed under Consent Calendar are considered routine and will be enacted by one motion. There will be no separate discussion of these items prior to the time of voting on the motion unless members of the Council or staff request specific items be discussed and/or removed from the Consent Calendar for separate action.
2. Posting of the Agenda.
The agenda was posted on the bulletin boards on the outside of the public entrance to the Council Chamber and near the inside entrance of the Council Chamber and on the City's website on Friday, May 9, 2025.
3. Approval of the Warrant Register.
Recommendation: Approve 5/13/25, warrants numbered 11052 through 11090 and 79507 through 79575 in the amount of $730,836.70; 5/13/25, Utility Billing Refund warrants numbered 79576 through 79586 in the amount of $972.38 and 5/13/25, warrants numbered 11091 through 11095 and 79587 through 79640 in the amount of $321,369.96.
4. Approval of the Payrol Register.
Recommendation: Approve 5/13/25, warrants numbered 55116 through 55132 and Direct Deposit warrants numbered 61731 through 61806 in the amount of $301,334.99; 5/13/25, warrants numbered 55133 through 55151 in the amount of $1,032.45 and Direct Deposit warrants numbered 61807 through 61883 in the amount $331,302.57; 5/13/25, warrants numbered 55152 through 55163 and Direct Deposit warrants numbered 61884 through 61984 in the amount of $90,353.02 and 5/13/25, warrants numbered 55164 through 55103 and Direct Deposit warrant numbered 61985 in the amount of $1,714.62.
5. Minutes of the April 8, 2025, City Council Meeting.
Recommendation: Approve the Minutes of the April 8, 2025 Meeting.
6. City of Blythe Permits Issued in the Month of April 2025.
Recommendation: Receive and file the monthly report.
Any writings or documents provided to a majority of the City Council regarding any item on this Agenda will be made available for Public inspection in the City Clerk's Office at City Hall, 235 N. Broadway, Blythe, California during normal business hours. In addition such writings and documents will be posted on the City's website: www.cityofblythe.ca.gov.
City of Blythe Fire Department Monthly Activity Report for April 2025.
Recommendation: Receive and file the monthly report.
8. City of Blythe Police Department Monthly Activity Report for April 2025.
Recommendation: Receive and file the monthly report.
9. Quality of Life Program Activity Report for April 2025.
Recommendation: Receive and file the monthly report.
10. General Plan Annual Report for 2024.
Recommendation: Receive and file the Annual General Plan Report for 2024 and direct staff to forward the report to the Governor's Office of Planning and Research and the Department of Housing and Community Development per Government Code Section 65400.
11. Authorize Acceptance of Work - 2024 Beautify Blythe Project - Package III - Public Works Yard.
Recommendation: Authorize the Interim City Manager to accept the work performed by James Burrow DBA Burrow Construction for the 2024 Beautify Blythe Project - Package III - Public Works Yard, once completed to the satisfaction of Public Works and Building Department staff, authorize the Interim City Manager to execute the Notice of Completion upon such acceptance and authorize the City Clerk to file the Notice of Completion and authorize staff to release project bonds once appropriate.
12. Annual Rate Adjustment Under Solid Waste Franchise Agreement.
Recommendation: Approve the annual rate adjustment pursuant to Section 22.7 of the Solid Waste Franchise Agreement between the City and CR&R Incorporated for exclusive solid waste handling services.
13. Annual Assessment for Lighting District Nos. 1 and 2 for Fiscal Year 2025/26.
Recommended: Adopt the following Resolutions:
RESOLUTION 2025-004 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, ORDERING THE PREPARATION AND FILING OF A REPORT REGARDING THE FISCAL YEAR 2025-2026 ASSESSMENT TO BE LEVIED WITHIN THE CITY OF BLYTHE LIGHTING DISTRICT NO. 1.
RESOLUTION 2025-005 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, PRELIMINIARY APPROVING THE ENGINEER'S REPORT FOR CITY OF BLYTHE LIGHTING DISTRICT NO.1,
DECLARING ITS INTENTION TO LEVY AND COLLECT ASSESSMENTS WITHIN SAID DISTRICT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2025-2026 AND SETTING A PUBLIC HEARING REGARDING SUCH ASSESSMENTS.
RESOLUTION 2025-006 — A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, ORDERING THE PREPARATION AND FILING OF A REPORT REGARDING THE FISCAL YEAR 2025-2026 ASSESSMENT TO BE LEVIE WITHIN THE CITY OF BLYTHE LIGHTING DISTRICT NO. 2.
ESOLUTION 2025-007 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE, CALIFORN RELIMINARY APPROVING THE ENGINEER'S REPORT FOR CITY OF BLYTHE LIGHTING DISTRICT NO.
DECLARING ITS INTENTION TO LEVY AND COLLECT ASSESSMENTS WITHIN SAID DISTRICT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2025-2026 AND SETTING A PUBLIC HEARING REGARDING SUCH ASSESSMENTS. ich writings and documents will be posted on the City's website: www.cityofblythe.ca.go PUBLIC HEARING: (Items 14-16)
14. Ordinance No. 937-25 Rezoning Two Parcels and Adding a New Section 17.27.050 to Title 17 (Zoning) of the Blythe Municipal Code Waiving the Art in Public Places Impact Fee on Affordable Housing and Special Needs Housing.
Recommendation: Council, subsequent to the public hearing, introduce Ordinance No. 937-
25. ORDINANCE NO. 937-25. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, REZONING TWO PARCELS AND ADDING A NEW SECTION 17.27.050 (WAIVER OF FEE) TO CHAPTER 17.27 (ARTS IN PUBLIC PLACES PROGRAM) OF DIVISION III (DEVELOPMENT AND PERFORMANCE STANDARDS) OF TITLE 17 (ZONING) OF THE BLYTHE MUNICIPAL CODE WAIVING THE ART IN PUBLIC PLACES IMPACT FEE ON
AFFORDABLE HOUSING AND SPECIAL NEEDS HOUSING, AND FINDING THE ORDINANCE IS EXEMPT FROM
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW UNDER THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) PURSUANT TO CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15061(B)(3) (COMMON SENSE EXEMPTION)
15. Consideration of Adoption of Urgency Ordinance No. 939-25-U, Repealing and Replacing Chapter 17.33 (Accessory Dwelling Units/Junior Accessory Dwelling Units) of Title 17 (Zoning) of the Blythe Municipal Code for Compliance and State Law; and Review of Ordinance No. 940-25, Repealing and Replacing Chapter 17.33 (Accessory Dwelling Units/Junior Accessory Dwelling Units) of Title 17 (Zoning) of the Blythe Municipal Code for Compliance with State Law
Recommendation: The City Council, acting as the City's Planning Agency, conduct a public hearing on Ordinance No. 940-25, repealing and replacing Chapter 17.33 of the Blythe Municipal Code to be compliant with State Law provisions on ADUs and JADUs. After the public hearing, it is recommended Council, acting as the City Council, adopt Urgency Ordinance No. 939-25-U to immediately provide the City with the ability to regulate ADUs and JADUs to the extent allowed by law.
URGENCY ORDINANCE NO. 939-25-U - AN URGENCY ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, REPEALING AND PLACING CHAPTER 17.33 (ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS/JUNIOR ACCESSORY SWELLING UNITS) OF TITLE 17 (ZONING) OF THE BLYTHE MUNICIPAL CODE FOR COMPLIANCE
WITH STATE LAW AND MAKING A DETERMINATION THAT THE ORDINANCE IS EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) PURSUANT TO PUBLIC RESOURCE CODE SECTION 21080.17 ORDINANCE NO. 939-25 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, REPEALING AND PLACING CHAPTER 17.33 (ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS/JUNIOR ACCESSORY SWELLING UNITS) OF TITLE 17 (ZONING) OF THE BLYTHE MUNICIPAL CODE FOR COMPLIANCE WITH STATE LAW AND
MAKING A DETERMINATION THAT THE ORDINANCE IS EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) PURSUANT TO PUBLIC RESOURCE CODE SECTION 21080.17
16. Revocation of Business License Issued to Fortune Five Properties LLC dba Econo Lodge-Blythe
Recommendation: Conduct a public hearing and provide direction regarding the revocation of the business license issued to Fortune Five Properties LLC dba Econo Lodge-Blythe. If the City Council desires to revoke the business license, it is recommended that the Council adopt the following resolution:
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-008 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, REVOKING THE BUSINESS LICENSE (BL-10876) ISSUED TO FORTUNE FIVE PROPERTIES LLC DBA ECONO LODGE-BLYTHE, LOCATED AT 903 W. HOBSONWAY, BLYTHE, CA 92225 NEW BUSINESS: (Items 17-20)
17. Agreement with County of Riverside Purchasing and Fleet Services Department.
Recommendation: Enter into a contract with the County of Riverside Purchasing and Fleet Services Department for fuel and car wash services provided at County service sites and authorize the Interim City Manager to execute the contract in such final form as approved by the City Attorney, commencing upon execution by both parties, continuing in effect through June 30, 2030. Should the value of the contract exceed $100,000 and require the County of Riverside Board of Supervisors approval pursuant to Section II (A), authorize the Interim City Manager to execute subsequent actions taken by the Board of Supervisors, in such form as approved by the City Attorney.
18. Letter Supporting SB 534 - Salton Sea Region Green Empowerment Zone.
Recommendation: Issue a letter of support for SB 534, the Salton Sea Region Green Empowerment Zone.
19. Setting Support for a Border Fuel Tax Exemption Zone as a Legislative Priority.
Recommendation: Set an effort to create a Border Fuel Tax Exemption Zone for retail fueling stations located within 20 miles of the Arizona border as a legislative priority, authorize the Mayor to execute and submit letters of support for this effort on behalf of the City and direct staff and the CVSP Closure Committee to work with the City's Lobbyist and elected officials on policy and/or legislation to create a fuel exemption border zone for Blythe.
20. Ordinance Adopting Amended Military Equipment Policy Pursuant to Assembly Bill 481.
Recommendation: Council introduce Ordinance No. 941-25.
CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15061(B)(3) (COMMON SENSE EXEMPTION) ORAL REPORTS (Council may ask a question for clarification, make a brief announcement, make a brief report on his/her own activities, request staff to report back at a subsequent meeting concerning any matter or take action to direct staff to place a matter of business on a future agenda.) PUBLIC COMMENT Public comments will be allowed on matters not appearing on the agenda, but within Council/Blythe Successor Agency jurisdiction. Speakers are asked to identify themselves by stating their name and address for the record. Comments shall be limited to 3 minutes in duration.
ADJOURNMENT The next meeting will be held on June 10, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber, 235 N. Broadway, Blythe, California.
NOTE TO THE PUBLIC: In compliance with the Americans with Disability Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact 504/ADA Coordinator Mallory Crecelius at (760) 922-6161 EXT. 1237 or by email at [email protected]. Notification 72 business hours prior to the meeting will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to the meeting (28 CFR 35.104 ADA Title II).
Any writings or documents provided to a majority of the City Council regarding any item on this Agenda will be made available fo ublic inspection in the City Clerk's Office at City Hall, 235 N. Broadway, Blythe, California during normal business hours. In additior such writings and documents will be posted on the City's website: www.cityofblythe.ca.gov.
PROCLAMATION
CITY OF BLY THE
Proclamation
BUILDING SAFETY MONTH
MAY 2025
WHEREAS, The City of Blythe recognizes that our growth and strength depends on the safety and essential role of our homes, buildings and infrastructure play, both in everyday life and when disasters strike; and
WHEREAS, our confidence in the resilience of these buildings that make up our community is achieved through the devotion of vigilant guardians - building safety and fire prevention officials, architects, engineers, builders, tradespeople, design professionals, laborers, plumbers and others in the construction industry - who work ycar-round to ensure the safe construction of buildings; and WHEREAS, these guardians are dedicated members of the International Code Council, a nonprofit that brings together local, state, territorial, tribal and federal officials who are experts in the built environment to create and implement the highest-quality codes and standards to protect us in the buildings where we live, learn, work and play; and WHEREAS, these modern building codes and standards include safeguards to protect the public from hazards such as hurricanes, snowstorms, tornadoes, wildland fires, floods and earthquakes; and
WHEREAS, Building Safety Month is sponsored by the International Code Council to remind the public about the critical role of our communities' largely unknown protectors of public safety - our code officials - who assure us of safe, sustainable and affordable buildings that are essential to our prosperity; and
WHEREAS, "Game On!" the theme for Building Safety Month 2025, encourages us all to get involved and raise awareness about building safety on a personal, local and global scale; and -WHEREAS, each year, in observance of Building Safety Month, people all over the world are asked to consider the commitment to improve building, safety, resilience and economic investment at home and in the community, and to acknowledge the essential service provided to all of us by local, state, tribal, territorial and federal building safety and fire prevention departments, in protecting lives and property.
NOW, THEREFORE, 1, Joseph Deconinck, Mayor of the City of Blythe, do hereby proclaim the month of May, as BUILDING SAFETY MONTH. I urge all citizens to be conscious of the safety of buildings they occupy and construct and to create awareness of the importance of construction and building codes and those who uphold these codes.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Thave hereunto set my hand
and caused the official seal of the City of Blythe, California to be affixed this 13% day of May 2025.
Mayor Dated
CONSENT
CALENDAR
vchlist Voucher List Page:
04/23/2025 8:20:37AM City of Blythe
Bank code : ap-dir
Date Vendor Invoice PO# Description/Account Amount
Voucher
11052 4/9/2025 000283 SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA EDISON CO 700240317342 023458 ELECTRICITY 3/1-3/31/2025 58.36 Total: 58.36
11053 4/9/2025 000283 SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA EDISON CO 700475898313 023459 ELECTRICITY 2/21-3/23/2025 196.20 Total: 196.20
11054 4/9/2025 000283 SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA EDISON CO 700350166610 023460 ELECTRICITY 2/26-3/26/2025 7,848.47 Total : 7,848.47
4/9/2025 000283 SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA EDISON CO 700350079007 023461 ELECTRICITY 2/26-3/26/2025 8,952.58 11055 Total: 8,952.68
11056 4/9/2025 000283 SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA EDISON CO 700466637136 023462 ELECTRICITY 3/1-3/31/2025 15,817.05 Total: 15,817.05
11057 4/9/2025 000283 SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA EDISON CO 600001510681 023463 ELECTRICITY 1/27-2/25/2025 31,985.44 Total: 31,985.44
11058 4/11/2025 004501 US BANK CORP MAR 2025 023382 CREDIT CARD CHAGES 3/2025 13,258.53 Total: 13,258.53
11059 4/17/2025 000646 COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE IN1017523 023136 ACCOUNT # AR0030990 - FACILITY #FA 1,293.00 IN1039801 023136 PENALTY 237.80
Total : 1,530.80
11060 4/21/2025 005176 SPARKLETTS 9470757 023469 DRINKING WATER 43.21 Total: 43.21
11061 4/22/2025 002768 AIRWAVE BROADBAND WIRELESS 115021 021452 BUSINESS PHONE SERVICE 5/1-6/1/20: 121.60 Total : 121.60
11062 4/22/2025 007828 BECK OIL, INC 160790 023523 FUEL 1,762.04 163204 023523 FUEL 1,062.03
Total : 2,824.07
11063 4/22/2025 005998 CA BLDG STANDARDS COMMISSION 033125 SB1473 GREEN FEES (COUNTY) 7.00 Page:
chlist Voucher List Page:
04/23/2025 8:20:37AM City of Blythe
Bank code : ap-dir
Date Vendor Invoice PO# Description/Account Amount
Voucher
4/22/2025 005998 005998 CA BLDG STANDARDS COMMISSION (Continued) Total : 7.00 11063
11064 4/22/2025 005998 CA BLDG STANDARDS COMMISSION 033125 SB1473 GREEN FEES 119.70 Total: 119.70
11065 4/22/2025 004804 CITY OF BLYTHE MAR 2025 AMOUNT BILLED TO CUSTOMERS 3/20 33,489.00 Total : 33,489.00
11066 000156272 021696 DISPOSAL SERVICES 4/1-4/30/2025 298.25 4/22/2025 005603 CR&R INCORPORATED Total :
298.25
11067 4/22/2025 005996 DE LAGE LANDEN FINANCIAL SVCS 589857421 021582 EQUIPMENT LEASE/MAINTENANCE 4/1 215.81 Total : 215.81
11068 4/22/2025 005213 FRONTIER 7609229375 023508 COMMUNICATIONS 4/13-5/12/2025 137,92 Total : 137.92
11069 4/22/2025 005213 FRONTIER 7609223545 023509 COMMUNICATIONS 4/13-5/12/2025 140.82 Total : 140.82
11070 4/22/2025 005213 FRONTIER 9091590013 023506 COMMUNICATIONS 4/7-5/6/2025 8,103.42 9091590039 023507 COMMUNICATIONS 4/7-5/6/2025 542.78
9091590042 021600 COMMUNICATIONS 4/1-4/30/2025 2,808.07 Total: 11,454.27
11071 4/22/2025 000869 GRAINGER 9462154361 023400 PARTS/SUPPLIES 233.01 9462350175 023400 PARTS/SUPPLIES 933.16
9462488637 023400 PARTS/SUPPLIES 317.56
9462883738 023400 PARTS/SUPPLIES 317.56
Total : 1,801.29
11072 4/22/2025 000150 INLAND BUILDERS SUPPLY INC F30819 023227 PARTS/SUPPLIES 27.17 F42995 023437 PARTS/SUPPLIES 252.27
F44028 023369 PARTS/SUPPLIES 1,197.25
F44841 023366 PARTS/SUPPLIES 147.66
F45728 023366 PARTS/SUPPLIES 43.45
F47975 023402 PARTS/SUPPLIES 18.48
F49202 023384 UNITED PARCEL CHARGES 23.39
Page:
vchlist Voucher List Page:
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Bank code: ap-dir
Voucher Date Vendor Invoice PO* Description/Account Amount 11072 412212025 000150 INLAND BUILDERS SUPPLY INC (Continued) F50626 023399 PARTS/SUPPLIES 42.35
F51561 023402 PARTS/SUPPLIES 59.57
F54894 023409 PARTS/SUPPLIES 15.20
F55529 023424 PARTS/SUPPLIES 384.98
F55543 023425 PARTS/SUPPLIES 173.99
V73329 023359 PARTS/SUPPLIES 99.94
V73812 023366 PARTS/SUPPLIES 10.86
V76266 023407 PARTS/SUPPLIES 41.26
Total: 2,537.82
11073 4122/2025 005295 KONICA MINOLTA 9010383358 021604 MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT 3/1-3/31/2 1,013.21 Total : 1,013.21
11074 4/22/2025 003150 PITNEY BOWES 3107183011 021609 TERM RENTAL 212-5/1/2025 1,760.71 Total: 1,760.71
11075 4/2212025 000213 QUILL LLC 43316920 023223 SUPPLIES 526.28 Total: 526.28
11076 4/2212025 003439 SHELL 104042363 023455 FUEL 3/6-4/6/2025 187.06 Total : 187.06
11077 4/22/2025 003439 SHELL 104030722 023454 FUEL 3/6-4/6/2025 278.45 Total: 278.45
11078 412212025 000241 SMART & FINAL IRIS CORP 430510002801 023419 SUPPLIES 150.24 430510006801 021578 SUPPLIES 61.62
430510010801 021578 SUPPLIES 591.28
430510018401 023394 SUPPLIES 96.53
430510025701 021578 SUPPLIES 364.17
Total: 1,263.84
11079 4/22/2025 000247 SOCALGAS 11185732804 023519 NATURAL GAS 3/7-4/7/2025 21.95 Total: 21.95
11080 4/22/2025 000247 SOCALGAS 06622932165 023456 NATURAL GAS 2/24-3/252025 258.73 Page:
vchlist Voucher List Page:
04/23/2025 8:20:37AM City of Blythe
Bank code: ap-dir
Voucher Date Vendor Invoice PO# Description/Account Amount 000247 SOCALGAS (Continued) Total: 258.73
11080 4/22/2025 000247
11081 4/22/2025 000247 SOCALGAS 07632638008 023520 NATURAL GAS 3/7-4/7/2025 288.54 Total: 288.54
4/22/2025 000323 STATE BOARD OF EQUALIZATION 023-300030 023521 USE TAX 3/2025 5.00 11082 5.00
Total:
11083 4/22/2025 000266 UNDERGROUND SERVICE ALERT/SC 24-253066 023442 CALIFORNIA STATE FEE FOR REGULAT 29.93 Total : 29.93
4/22/2025 000266 UNDERGROUND SERVICE ALERT/SC 320250080 023443 DIG ALERT TICKETS 3/2025 93.25 11084 Total: 93.25
4/22/2025 003035 VERIZON WIRELESS 6110990129 023515 WIRELESS SERVICE 3/14-4/13/2025 76.02 11085 76.02
Total:
11086 4/22/2025 003035 VERIZON WIRELESS 6110990130 023514 WIRELESS SERVICE 3/14-4/13/2025 259.42 Total: 259.42
4/22/2025 003035 VERIZON WIRELESS 6110990128 023513 WIRELESS SERVICE 3/14-4/13/2025 871.96 11087
Total: 871.96
11088 5/1/2025 005923 CALIFORNIA PUBLIC EMPLOYEES' 000017896732 HEALTH PREMIUMS 5/1-5/31/2025 3,790.32 Total: 3,790.32
11089 5/1/2025 005923 CALIFORNIA PUBLIC EMPLOYEES' 000017896728 HEALTH PREMIUMS 5/1-5/31/2025 126,867.57 Total: 126,867.57
11090 5/1/2025 006924 SUN LIFE 923380-0002 PREMIUM/FEES 5/1-5/31/2025 5,812.80 Total: 5,812.80
39 Vouchers for bank code : ap-dir Bank total: 276,243.23 Page:
vchlist Voucher List Page:
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Bank code: union
Invoice PO* Description/Account Amount
Voucher Date Vendor
4/22/2025 007560 AMAZON CAPITAL SERVICES, INC 11306X6961GM 023457 PARTS/SUPPLIES (CREDIT RETURN) -38.05 79507 179.40
13TRTD9MMFJ9 023355 PARTS/SUPPLIES
19MPTCVNJD1K 023481 PARTS/SUPPLIES 203.57
19XQ1K446L3M 023467 PARTS/SUPPLIES 439.59
1CD431MDRK4D 023445 PARTS/SUPPLIES 496.87
1D3RLCJ4RY4V 023307 PARTS/SUPPLIES 18.49
1J3KFTQV7RWF 023363 PARTS/SUPPLIES 158.03
1LYDLG663CMT 023457 PARTS/SUPPLIES [CREDIT RETURN] -15.21 IMMR1179LV 023206 PARTS/SUPPLIES 205.88
1MX4LJ46KVYR 023403 PARTS/SUPPLIES 155.00
1RQ1XV1XDJ7T 023466 PARTS/SUPPLIES 271.23
1TF97R1HP6HK 023404 PARTS/SUPPLIES 70.63
Total: 2,145.43
79508 4/22/2025 002458 AQUA-METRIC SALES, CO INVO106133 021575 PARTS/SUPPLIES 2,400.11 Total: 2,400.11
79509 412212025 005289 AYRES SUITES 962043613 023414 LODGING - L CORDOVA 4/27-4/29/2025 215.08 Total : 215.08
79510 4/22/2025 005289 AYRES SUITES 962043037 023413 LODGING - N IBARRA 4/27-4/29/2025 215.08 Total : 215.08
79511 4/22/2025 005289 AYRES SUITES 962043375 023420 LODGING - M ESTACIO 4/27-4/29/2025 215.08 Total: 215.08
79512 4/22/2025 000385 BIO-TOX LABORATORIES 47254 023431 LAB SERVICES (CHP) 457.00 Total: 457.00
79513 4/22/2025 003687 BLANKS/USA 308838 023410 SUPPLIES 120.91 Totai : 120.91
79514 4/22/2025 008475 CASHIER, DPR 042225 023367 LICENSE APPLICATION/EXAMINATION 640.00 Total: 640.00
79515 4/22/2025 000830 CENTURY FORMS BLPO-3533 023264 CUSTOM FORMS 744.26 Total : 744.26
Page:
vchlist Voucher List Page:
04/23/2025 8:20:37AM City of Blythe
Bank code : union
Vendor Invoice PO# Description/Account Amount
Voucher Date
79516 412212025 008429 CHOLLA CONSTRUCTION 040925-1 023434 MANHOLE REHABILITATION 130,163.00 Total: 130,163.00
79517 4/22/2025 000896 CITY OF BLYTHE 033125 GOVERNMENT RETAINER - STRONG N 11.59 033125 GOVERNMENT RETAINER - SB1473 - G 13.30
Total: 24.89
412212025 000667 CITY OF BLYTHE: WATER UTILITIES 27048 DELINQUENT UTILITY - COUNTY ASSE: 636.04 79518 Total: 636.04
79519 412212025 008358 CLIFTONLARSONALLEN LLP L251198452 023502 AUDIT SERVICES 3,150.00 Total: 3,150.00
79520 4/22/2025 000437 CO OF RIV AUDITOR-CONTROLLER MAR 2025 023503 PARKING CITATIONS 3/2025 840.00 Total: 840.00
79521 4/22/2025 000227 COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE AN0000003101 023421 ANIMAL SHELTER SERVICES 2/2025 7,940.28 Total: 7,940.28
4/22/2025 002331 COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE PE0000002533 023504 PSEC AGREEMENT 3/1-3/31/2025 11,556.09 79522 11,556.09
Total :
79523 4/2212025 005421 COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE PU0000006085 023476 FUEL - FLEET VEHICLES 3/2025 13,330.47 Total : 13,330.47
79524 4/22/2025 005603 CR&R INCORPORATED MAR 2025 023396 FRANCHISE CONTRACT 3/2025 118,274.45 Total : 118,274.45
79525 4/22/2025 004884 CRECELIUS, MALLORY 041525 023473 REIMBURSEMENT 214.90 Total : 214.90
79526 4/22/2025 008415 CROWE, JASLENE BSKTBLL2025-08 023392 BASKETBALL OFFICIAL. 400.00 Total : 400.00
79527 4/22/2025 003026 CROWE, JONATHAN BSKTBLL2024-01 023393 BASKETBALL OFFICIAL 404.50 Total: 404.50
79528 412212025 000037 CULLIGAN SOFT WATER SERVICE 0646081 021498 WATER SERVICE 4/18-5/16/2025 75.63 Page:
vchlist Voucher List Page:
04/23/2025 8:20:37AM City of Blythe
Bank code: union
Vendor Invoice PO # Description/Account Amount
Voucher Date
000037 CULLIGAN SOFT WATER SERVICE (Continued) Total: 75.63 79528 4/22/2025 000037
79529 4/22/2025 000084 D & LAUTO PARTS INC 218680 023406 PARTS/SUPPLIES 385.60 218692 023408 PARTS/SUPPLIES 364.42
Total : 750.02
177408 023505 CITATION PROCESSING 3/2025 434.88
79530 4/22/2025 001757 DATA TICKET INC 023505 CITATION PROCESSING 3/2025 537.45 178003
Total: 972.33
SAB2503-003 REFUND - PERMIT FEE(S) 585.07
79531 Total: 585.07
4/22/2025 005997 DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION 033125 STRONG MOTION FEES 220.32 79532 10.50
033125 STRONG MOTION FEES (COUNTY)
Total : 230.82
79533 4/22/2025 002173 DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE 807706 023475 LIVE SCAN SERVICES 3/2025 1,666.00 Total: 1,666.00
79534 4/22/2025 000094 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION SL241068 023435 SIGNALS & LIGHTING (110) 4/2024-6/20: 4,096.45 SL250576 023387 SIGNALS & LIGHTING (110) 10/2024-1212 6,895.40 Total: 10,991.85
79535 4/22/2025 003511 ECONOLITE CONTROL PRODUCTS INC INV221697 023436 PARTS/SUPPLIES 2,482.45 Total: 2,482.45
79536 412212025 003378 EMPIRE SOUTHWEST EMWK3943160 023405 REPAIRIMAINTENANCE SERVICES 3,982.97 Total : 3,982.97
79537 4/22/2025 000547 ESGIL, LLC 1551130 PLAN CHECK SERVICES 3/2025 1,307.50 Total : 1,307.50
79538 4/22/2025 007801 ESTACIO, MARIE 042725 023314 TRAVEL - PER DIEM 4/27-4/29/2025 110.00 Total : 110.00
79539 4/22/2025 008270 FBI NCCA 2025 023422 2025 MEMBERSHIP DUES 50.00 Page:
vchlist Voucher List Page:
04/23/2025 8:20:37AM City of Blythe
Bank code : union
Invoice PO# Description/Account Amount
Voucher Date Vendor
008270 FBI NCCA (Continued) Total: 50.00
79539 4/22/2025 008270
79540 4/22/2025 007735 FIGUEROA, JESSICA 040525 COMMUNITY CENTER DEPOSIT REFUI 150.00 Total: 150.00
6096077 023385 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES 1,052.54
79541 4/22/2025 001686 FINN AUTO GROUP Total: 1,052.54
4/22/2025 000129 GRANITE CONSTRUCTION 2897125 023305 ASPHALT 14,666.53 79542
023305
Total: 14,666.53
4/22/2025 003794 HARVEY CONSULTING GROUP, INC HB WATER-3 023444 HIDDEN BEACHES WATER SYSTEM IM 2,623.75 79543 11,730.00
OPE-1 CEQA DOCUMENTATION - OCEAN PAC
WATTEV-17 NEPA DOCUMENTATION - WATTEV TRL 6,007.50
Total: 20,361.25
79544 4122/2025 007970 IBARRA, NATHALIE 042725 023313 TRAVEL - PER DIEM 4/27-4/29/2025 110.00 Total: 110.00
79545 4/22/2025 002150 JONES MAYER MAR 2025 023510 LEGAL SERVICES 3/2025 14,610.49 Total: 14,610.49
79546 4/22/2025 008284 JUST 4 FUN POWERSPORTS, LLC 30307 023438 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES 1,751.47 Total: 1,751.47
79547 4/22/2025 007700 KELLEY, SONIA KIM 27301 REFUND - UB DEPOSIT 135.00 Total: 135.00
79548 4/22/2025 006418 LEON, MARIO 043025 023489 TRAVEL - PER DIEM 4/30/2025, 5/5-5/6/z 45.00 Total: 45.00
4/22/2025 008411 MODERN IMAGING SOLUTIONS INC M12Q139282 023423 SUPPLIES 434.73 79549 Total: 434.73
4/22/2025 008477 MORALES, ERNESTINE 98334 REFUND - PROGRAM FEE(S) 50.00 79550
Total: 50.00
Page:
vchlist Voucher List Page:
04/23/2025 8:20:37AM City of Blythe
Bank code : union
Voucher Date Vendor Invoice PO # Description/Account Amount 101465006 023511 INTERNET SERVICE 4/1-4/30/2025 750.00
79551 4/22/2025 008201 OPTIMUM 750.00
Total:
79552 4122/2025 000201 PALO VERDE VALLEY TIMES INC 022538816 023448 PUBLICATIONS 2/1-2128/2025 2,796.75 032538816 023450 PUBLICATIONS 3/1-3/31/2025 2,541.00
Total: 5,337.75
79553 4/22/2025 007830 PROFORCE LAW ENFORCEMENT 714546 023210 BODY ARMOR 852.71 Total: 852.71
4/22/2025 000216 RAMSEY TOWING 20033 023439 TOW SERVICES 250.00 79554 200.00
20036 023418 TOW SERVICES (AVA)
Total: 450.00
4/22/2025 006511 SHAWN COPELAND ELECTRIC 2641 023453 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES 173.06 79555 173.06
Total:
79556 4/22/2025 001790 SIGNS UNLIMITED 4394 023432 DECALS 1,863.12 Total: 1,863.12
79557 4/22/2025 006110 SOUTHWEST NETWORKS, INC 25-3087 023512 IT MAINTENANCE SERVICES 100.00 25-3096 023512 IT MAINTENANCE SERVICES 3/1-3/31/2 285.00 25-3515 023465 EQUIPMENT 8,256.30
25-4017 023512 IT MAINTENANCE SERVICES 800.00
25-4018 023512 IT MAINTENANCE SERVICES 2,100.00
25-4505 023468 EQUIPMENT 2,108.93
023468
Total: 13,650.23
4/22/2025 002783 THATCHER COMPANY 2025400101284 023440 CHEMICALS 16,554.36 79558
Total : 16,554.36
79559 4/22/2025 000141 THE HOLT GROUP INC B25-03-203 023120 CHANSLOR WAY SEWER RENOVATIOA 6,100.00 Total: 6,100.00
79560 4/22/2025 007902 THE JADO PRINT COMPANY 502 023395 PRINTING/CUSTOM SERVICES 179.00 Total: 179.00
Page:
vchlist Voucher List Page: 10
04/23/2025 8:20:37AM City of Blythe
Bank code: union
Date Vendor Invoice PO# Description/Account Amount
Voucher
4/22/2025 008069 TRIPEPI SMITH & ASSOCIATES INC 14533 023482 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES 3,505.00 79561 Total: 3,505.00
4122/2025 007841 TRIPLE H PARTS SUPPLY, INC 523993 023441 PARTS/SUPPLIES 19.42 79562 PARTS/SUPPLIES 83.45
528069 023187 301.31
528298 023187 PARTS/SUPPLIES
529204 023398 PARTS/SUPPLIES 133.85
529404 023426 PATRS/SUPPLIES 38.32
Total : 576.35
188631934 022908 PARTS/SUPPLIES 9,492.54
79563 4/22/2025 003324 ULINE Total : 9,492.54
4/22/2025 000991 USA BLUEBOOK INVO0584375 022816 PARTS/SUPPLIES 2,020.01 79564 PARTS/SUPPLIES 1,347.59
INVO0592790 022870
INV00668969 022816 PARTS/SUPPLIES 505.02
INV00669493 022816 PARTS/SUPPLIES 4,616.54
Total: 8,489.16
4/22/2025 008457 USSC ACQUISITION CORP 11337915 023163 PARTS/SUPPLIES 13,669.03 79565 Total: 13,669.03
79566 5/1/2025 005289 AYRES SUITES 962044214 023417 LODGING - N IBARRA 5/5-5/8/2025 322.62 Total : 322.62
5/1/2025 005289 AYRES SUITES 962044871 023416 LODGING - L CORDOVA 5/5-5/8/2025 322.62 79567 322.62
Total:
962044741 023415 LODGING - M ESTACIO 5/5-5/8/2025 322.62 79568 5/1/2025 005289 AYRES SUITES
Total: 322.62
5/1/2025 007305 CROWE, CRISTINA BAS-2025 023373 RISING STARS BASKETBALL TOURNAN 150.00 79569
Total : 150.00
79570 5/1/2025 007801 ESTACIO, MARIE 050525 023315 TRAVEL - PER DIEM 5/5-5/8/2025 155.00 Total: 165.00
79571 5/1/2025 008491 ESTIPONA, JOSHUA 050425 023492 TRAVEL - PER DIEM 5/4-5/5/2025 110.00 Page: 10
Voucher List Page: 11
04/23/2025 8:20:37 AM City of Blythe
Bank code : union
Voucher Date Vendor Invoice PO # Description/Account Amount 79571 5/1/2025 008491 008491 ESTIPONA, JOSHUA (Continued) Total: 110.00 79572 5/1/2025 004242 GANDARA, EMMANUEL 050425 023487 TRAVEL - PER DIEM 5/4-5/6/2025 110.00 Total : 110.00
79573 5/1/2025 008050 HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS & SUITES 61338997 023498 LODGING - JESTIPONA 5/4-5/6/2025 322.04 Total : 322.04
79574 5/1/2025 008050 HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS & SUITES 89931448 023497 LODGING - E GANDARA 5/4-5/6/2025 322.04 Total: 322.04
79575 5/1/2025 007970 IBARRA, NATALIE 050525 023316 TRAVEL - PER DIEM 5/5-5/8/2025 155.00 Total: 155.00
69 Vouchers for bank code: union Bank total: 454,593.47 108 Vouchers in this report Total vouchers: 730,836.70
CLAIMS VOUCHER APPROVAL
I hereby certify that warrants numbered 11052-11090 and 79507-79575 in the amount of $730,836.70 have been
reviewed for payment by the Director of Finance. I further certify Councilmembers of the City of Blythe, CA approved said warrants at the meeting of the May 13, 2025.
Chish Clus
Christa Elms
Director of Finance
Page: 11
vchlist Voucher List Page:
04/23/2025 8:59:22AM City of Blythe
Bank code : union
Invoice PO# Description/Account Amount
Voucher Date Vendor
4/22/2025 008463 ALL STAR CINEMAS Ref000222194 UB Refund Cst #001107 119.44 79576
Total : 119.44
79577 4/22/2025 008484 AVALOS, ADELA Ref000222199 UB Refund Cst #026477 0.64 Total : 0.64
Ref000222201 UB Refund Cst #027226 120.17
79578 4/22/2025 008452 DEVERA, OSCAR
Total : 120.17
Ref000222197 UB Refund Cst #025002 21.02
79579 4/22/2025 008483 DOBBS, RYAN 21.02
Total :
79580 4/22/2025 007787 FLORES, MARIA Ref000222195 UB Refund Cst #022387 183.00 Total: 183.00
79581 4/22/2025 008487 GRIJALVA, JOSEPH Ref000222203 UB Refund Cst #027782 26.09 Total: 26.09
79582 4/22/2025 008488 LOERA, JOSE Ref000222204 UB Refund Cst #027807 168.88 Total : 168.88
79583 4/22/2025 008482 NARANJO, MAILE Ref000222196 UB Refund Cst #024921 62.95 Total : 62.95
79584 4/22/2025 008486 PARKER, LEVI Ref000222202 UB Refund Cst #027770 33.69 Total : 33.69
79585 4/22/2025 008485 STEVENSON, MICHELE Ref000222200 UB Refund Cst #027010 90.54 Total : 90.54
79586 4/22/2025 008044 TEMPLE, BETH Ref000222198 UB Refund Cst #026120 145.96 Total: 145.96
11 Vouchers for bank code : union Bank total : 972.38
11 Vouchers in this report Total vouchers : 972.38
Page:
vchlist Voucher List Page:
04/23/2025 8:59:22AM City of Blythe
Bank code : union
Voucher Date Vendor _Invoice PO# _Description/Account Amount
CLAIMS VOUCHER APPROVAL
I hereby certify that the Utility Billing Refund warrants numbered 79576-79586 in the amount of $972.38 have been reviewed for payment by the Director of Finance. I further certify that the Councilmembers of the City of Blythe, CA approved said warrants at the meeting of May 13, 2025.
Chish Elus
Christa Elms
Director of Finance
Page:
vchlist Voucher List Page:
05/08/2025 10:19:45AM City of Blythe
Bank code : ap-dir
Voucher Date Vendor Invoice PO # Description/Account Amount 11091 5/1/2025 008201 OPTIMUM 0771510132602 023575 INTERNET SERVICE 4/4-5/3/2025 141.32 0771510132602 023575 INTERNET SERVICE 5/4-6/3/2025 141.32 023575
Total : 282.64
11092 5/5/2025 000064 EMPLOYMENT DEVELOPMENT DEPT L2135525840 EMPLOYMENT TAX 3,247.00 Total : 3,247.00
11093 5/7/2025 000241 SMART & FINAL IRIS CORP 430510001901 021578 SUPPLIES 461.42 430510002101 023543 SUPPLIES 91.64
430510002602 023544 SUPPLIES 53.20
430510003801 023545 SUPPLIES 84.18
430510004801 021578 SUPPLIES 197.56
430510005102 023483 SUPPLIES 32.38
430510008201 023542 SUPPLIES 78.37
Total: 998.75
11094 5/8/2025 006873 VESTIS 5880892661 023588 UNIFORM SERVICE/MATS & TOWEI 548.50 5880898601 023588 UNIFORM SERVICE/MATS & TOWEI 538.07
5880904602 023588 UNIFORM SERVICE/MATS & TOWEL 538.07
5880910585 023588 UNIFORM SERVICE/MATS & TOWEI 537.12
5880917134 023588 UNIFORM SERVICE/MATS & TOWEI 537.12
Total: 2,698.88
11095 5/13/2025 000150 INLAND BUILDERS SUPPLY INC 568341 023540 PARTS/SUPPLIES 3,981.69 F53805 023401 PARTS/SUPPLIES 54.04
F59853 023451 PARTS/SUPPLIES 17.39
F60791 023472 PARTS/SUPPLIES 45.83
F61275 021711 PARTS/SUPPLIES 52.12
F63393 023485 PARTS/SUPPLIES 162.99
F66852 023526 PARTS/SUPPLIES 48.88
023526
F68375 023535 PARTS/SUPPLIES 26.26
V77019 023446 PARTS/SUPPLIES 36.84
V78953 023500 PARTS/SUPPLIES 27.80
Page:
vchlist Voucher List Page:
05/08/2025 10:19:45AM City of Blythe
Bank code : ap-dir
Vendor Invoice PO # Description/Account Amount
Voucher Date
5/13/2025 000150 000150 INLAND BUILDERS SUPPLY INC (Continued) Total : 4,453.84 11095
5 Vouchers for bank code: ap-dir Bank total : 11,681.11 Page:
-1
vchlist Voucher List Page:
05/08/2025 10:19:45AM City of Blythe
Bank code: union
Voucher Date Vendor Invoice PO# Description/Account Amount 79587 5/9/2025 007501 BARRERAS, ANGEL MSD-2025 023603 DJ SERVICES - MOTHER/SON DAN. 325.00 Total: 325.00
79588 5/13/2025 007560 AMAZON CAPITAL SERVICES, INC 1D9W1XNKRCLT 023447 PARTS/SUPPLIES 165.44 1DQ17KP4CCXF 023532 PARTS/SUPPLIES 1,183.38
1Q96CGGL61XJ 023553 PARTS/SUPPLIES 53.12
1QJ6P4YQG7M1 023464 PARTS/SUPPLIES 54.35
Total : 1,456.29
79589 5/13/2025 007105 ANDRADE, MAURICIO 0098 023554 REIMBURSEMENT 100.00 Total: 100.00
79590 5/13/2025 007882 ARCCOPS SEMINAR25012 023570 REGISTRATION 600.00 Total: 600.00
79591 5/13/2025 005289 AYRES SUITES 970649783 023547 LODGING - T WALNOHA 5/15/2025 107.54 Total : 107.54
79592 5/13/2025 005289 AYRES SUITES 970649439 023546 LODGING - M SOTO 5/15/2025 107.54 Total: 107.54
79593 5/13/2025 000016 BABCOCK LABORATORIES, INC CC51354-0040 023555 TESTING SERVICES 88.45 CC51358-0040 023555 TESTING SERVICES 53.07
CC51558-0040 023555 TESTING SERVICES 91.51
CC51684-0040 023555 TESTING SERVICES 70.76
CC51688-0040 023555 TESTING SERVICES 53.07
CC51879-0040 023555 TESTING SERVICES 870.03
CC51889-0040 023555 TESTING SERVICES 362.20
CD50315-0040 023555 TESTING SERVICES 141.51
CD50824-0040 023555 TESTING SERVICES 50.16
CD50825-0040 023555 TESTING SERVICES 25.08
CD50826-0040 023555 TESTING SERVICES 842.24
CD50827-0040 023555 TESTING SERVICES 75.24
CD50828-0040 023555 TESTING SERVICES 84.20
CD50829-0040 023555 TESTING SERVICES 42.10
CD50830-0040 023555 TESTING SERVICES 511.90
CD50831-0040 023555 TESTING SERVICES 42.10
Page:
vchlist Voucher List Page:
05/08/2025 10:19:45AM City of Blythe
Bank code : union
Date Vendor Invoice PO# Description/Account Amount
Voucher
79593 5/13/2025 000016 BABCOCK LABORATORIES, INC (Continued) CD50833-0040 023555 TESTING SERVICES 33.69
CD50834-0040 023555 TESTING SERVICES 42.10
CD50835-0040 023555 TESTING SERVICES 33.69
CD50836-0040 023555 TESTING SERVICES 210.50
CD50837-0040| 023555 TESTING SERVICES 42.10
CD50838-0040 023555 TESTING SERVICES 53.07
CD50839-0040 023555 TESTING SERVICES 17.69
CD50840-0040 023555 TESTING SERVICES 25.08
CD50841-0040 023555 TESTING SERVICES 17.69
CD50847-0040 023555 TESTING SERVICES 53.07
CD50913-0040 023555 TESTING SERVICES 53.07
CD51040-0040 023555 TESTING SERVICES 17.69
CD51042-0040 023555 TESTING SERVICES 141.51
CD51043-0040 023555 TESTING SERVICES 53.07
CD51490-0040 023555 TESTING SERVICES 1,079.20
Total: 5,276.84
79594 5/13/2025 000525 BARBARA SINATRA 25-0244 023529 TECHNICAL SERVICES 231.00 Total: 231.00
165040 023586 FUEL 735.26
79595 5/13/2025 007828 BECK OIL, INC
Total: 735.26
79596 5/13/2025 000385 BIO-TOX LABORATORIES 47394 023566 LAB SERVICES (CHP) 126.00 Total : 126.00
79597 5/13/2025 000048 BURTRONICS BUSINESS SYSTEMS AR121480 023556 CONTRACT CN10665-01 4/6-5/5/202 60.38 Total : 60.38
79598 5/13/2025 000366 CIRCLE H VETERINARY HOSPITAL 122324 023571 VET SERVICES 482.00 Total: 482.00
79599 5/13/2025 000896 CITY OF BLYTHE RC2312-005 ADMINISTRATIVE FEE 225.00 Total: 225.00
79600 5/13/2025 000667 CITY OF BLYTHE: WATER UTILITIES APR 2025 023574 UTILITY SERVICES/CITY FACILITIE! 6,034.48 Page:
vchlist Voucher List Page:
05/08/2025 10:19:45AM City of Blythe
Bank code: union
Date Vendor Invoice PO# Description/Account Amount
Voucher
79600 5/13/2025 000667 000667 CITY OF BLYTHE:WATER UTILITIES (Continued) Total : 6,034.48 79601 5/13/2025 000037 CULLIGAN SOFT WATER SERVICE 0646083 021899 WATER SERVICE 4/18-5/16/2025 104.78 Total: 104.78
79602 5/13/2025 000084 D & LAUTO PARTS INC 215815 022650 PARTS/SUPPLIES 60.90 217099 023039 PARTS/SUPPLIES 213.34
218450 023371 PARTS/SUPPLIES 152.42
218929 023480 PARTS/SUPPLIES 48.00
218997 023516 PARTS/SUPPLIES 423.14
219089 023517 PARTS/SUPPLIES 92.43
219148 023548 PARTS/SUPPLIES 227.20
Total : 1,217.43
79603 5/13/2025 000094 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION SL250890 023557 SIGNALS & LIGHTING (110) 1/2025-: 5,517.56 Total: 5,517.56
79604 5/13/2025 008490 DESERT PROMOTIONS 103823 023530 CUSTOM SERVICES/SUPPLIES 102.23 104165 023537 CUSTOM SERVICES/SUPPLIES 2,134.76
Total: 2,236.99
79605 5/13/2025 007951 DSLRPROS 10000090987 023522 DRONES/DRONE SUPPLIES 2,436.00 Total : 2,436.00
79606 5/13/2025 003378 EMPIRE SOUTHWEST EMWK3956193 023533 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES 2,541.17 EMWK3958702 023549 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES 1,760.00 Total: 4,301.17
79607 5/13/2025 003447 EXTREME AUTO BODY & CUSTOMS 9201 023207 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES 675.33 9259 023569 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES 2,774.76
Total: 3,450.09
79608 5/13/2025 008489 FITNESS MACHINE TECHNICIANS 14037154 023477 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES 1,650.00 14037359 023477 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES 1,619.86
Total: 3,269.86
79609 5/13/2025 007069 FORTILINE, INC 6853601 023357 PARTS/SUPPLIES 3,096.18 Page:
vchlist Voucher List Page:
05/08/2025 10:19:45AM City of Blythe
Bank code : union
Voucher Date Vendor Invoice PO# Description/Account Amount 79609 5/13/2025 007069 007069 FORTILINE, INC (Continued) Total : 3,096.18 79610 5/13/2025 005978 FULTON DISTRIBUTING - SO CAL 667813 023172 JANITORIAL SUPPLIES 1,102.06 Total: 1,102.06
5/13/2025 000129 GRANITE CONSTRUCTION 2923271 023347 ASPHALT 6,538.89 79611 Total: 6,538.89
79612 5/13/2025 008067 JOE A. GONSALVES & SON 162414 023541 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES 5/2025 4,160.00 Total : 4,160.00
5/13/2025 001460 LAWSON PRODUCTS INC 9312185279 022994 PARTS/SUPPLIES 1,166.41 79613 Total: 1,166.41
79614 5/13/2025 008492 LGCY INSTALLATION SERVICES LLC SAB2504-006 PERMIT REFUND 837.57 Total: 837.57
5/13/2025 008493 LIBERTY PROPS & WELDING, LLC 11763 023531 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES 1,447.86 79615 Total: 1,447.86
5/13/2025 003510 MCCALL'S METER SALES & SERVICE 37497 023333 PARTS/SUPPLIES 7.105.60 79616 Total:
79617 5/13/2025 007336 MR. PEST CONTROL 14112 023429 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES 175.00 Total: 175.00
79618 5/13/2025 004417 PACIFIC COAST ENVELOPE, INC 252011 023539 SUPPLIES/STOCK 3,674.82 Total: 3,674.82
5/13/2025 005009 PARKER OIL PRODUCTS, INC 145164 023558 DIESEL FUEL 1,398.44 79619
Total : 1,398.44
79620 5/13/2025 008287 PENS.COM 114160903 023427 SUPPLIES 376.35 Total : 376.35
79621 5/13/2025 001487 PITNEY BOWES BANK, INC 18696948 023576 POSTAGE 4/1-4/30/2025 3,689.42 Total: 3,689.42
79622 5/13/2025 000073 PUBLIC ENTITY RISK MGMNT AUTHO INV383 023551 PREMIUMS Q4 95,357.00 Page:
vchlist Voucher List Page:
05/08/2025 10:19:45AM City of Blythe
Bank code : union
Voucher Date Vendor Invoice PO# Description/Account Amount 79622 5/13/2025 000073 000073 PUBLIC ENTITY RISK MGMNT AUTH (Continued) Total : 95,357.00 32674 023452 13,000.00
79623 5/13/2025 008481 QTI, LLC MESA RANCH TANK INSPECTIONAS 13,000.00
5/13/2025 008344 RAY, JONATHAN 041425 023562 REIMBURSEMENT 164.00 79624
Total: 164.00
79625 5/13/2025 000315 RDO EQUIPMENT CO C7883899 022228 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES -2,702.04 P2043842 022392 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SUPPLIES 54.20
P2420842 023181 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SUPPLIES 44.24
P2504142 023361 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES 130.40
P2531242 023388 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SUPPLIES 12.98
W2545742 023361 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES 2,250.56
W2545942 023397 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES 1,369.97
Total : 1,160.31
79626 5/13/2025 005981 ROAD RUNNER SUPPLY 168866 023478 SUPPLIES 215.18 Total : 215.18
79627 5/13/2025 003606 RODRIGUEZ, GUSTAVO 15 021824 WATER TREATMENT SERVICES 4/2 2,000.00 Total : 2,000.00
5/13/2025 008068 RODRIGUEZ, III, GUSTAVO 050125 023580 REIMBURSEMENT 230.00 79628 Total : 230.00
5/13/2025 007755 ROVE ENGINEERING, INC 023577 CHANSLOR PLACE SEWER REPAIF 87,722.05 79629 Total : 87,722.05
5/13/2025 008494 SEAM DREAMS 2889 023568 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES 1,152.92 79630 1,152.92
Total:
79631 5/13/2025 006511 SHAWN COPELAND ELECTRIC 2668 023428 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES 147.40 Total : 147.40
79632 5/13/2025 006457 SOTO, MICHELLE 051525 023493 TRAVEL - PER DIEM 5/15-5/16/2025 45.00 Total : 45.00
Page:
vchlist Voucher List Page:
05/08/2025 10:19:45AM City of Blythe
Bank code : union
Voucher Date Vendor Invoice PO# Description/Account Amount 79633 5/13/2025 006457 SOTO, MICHELLE 041425 023518 REIMBURSEMENT 191.39 Total : 191.39
79634 5/13/2025 001136 STANDAGE TIRE & AUTOMOTIVE 1-25911 023585 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES 336.68 1-26160 023585 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES 2,263.67
1-26293 023585 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES/ 3,596.39
1-26372 023585 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES 305.36
1-26398 023585 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES, 185.27
1-26464 023585 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES 155.48
1-26485 023585 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES: 135.07
1-26691 023585 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES 1,097.71
1-26746 023585 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES, 5,922.40
1-26769 023585 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES: 683.83
1-26799 023585 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES/ 576.26
1-26804 023585 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES/ 716.46
1-26850 023585 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES/ 816.79
1-26933 023585 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES/ 123.70
1-26936 023585 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES 49.24
1-26938 023585 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES 20.00
1-26942 023585 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES, 142.01
1-26950 023585 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES 106.50
1-27125 023585 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES, 20.00
1-27130 023585 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES 301.51
1-27135 023585 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES, 20.00
1-27158 023585 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES 103.95
Total : 17,678.28
79635 5/13/2025 000141 THE HOLT GROUP INC B25-03-204 023288 MESA BLUFFS WASTEWATER SYS 15,760.40 Total : 15,760.40
79636 5/13/2025 007841 TRIPLE H PARTS SUPPLY, INC 527491 023559 PARTS/SUPPLIES 71.73 529558 023470 PARTS/SUPPLIES 130.37
529591 023470 PARTS/SUPPLIES 23.67
529596 023470 PARTS/SUPPLIES 36.83
529699 023484 PARTS/SUPPLIES 353.94
Total: 616.54
Page:
vchlist Voucher List Page:
05/08/2025 10:19:45AM City of Blythe
Bank code : union
Voucher Date Vendor Invoice PO # Description/Account Amount 79637 5/13/2025 000266 UNDERGROUND SERVICE ALERT/SC 24-253433 023582 CALIFORNIA STATE FEE FOR REGI 29.93 420250082 023581 DIG ALERT TICKETS 4/2025 67.35
Total: 97.28
79638 5/13/2025 000991 USA BLUEBOOK INVO0686949 023560 PARTS/SUPPLIES 652.45 Total: 652.45
79639 5/13/2025 006667 WALNOHA, TINA 051525 023494 TRAVEL - PER DIEM 5/15-5/16/2025 45.00 Total : 45.00
79640 5/13/2025 000278 WEEKS PRINTING 5375 023524 PRINTING/CUSTOM SERVICES 283.84 Total : 283.84
54 Vouchers for bank code: union Bank total: 309,688.85 59 Vouchers in this report Total vouchers: 321,369.96
CLAIMS VOUCHER APPROVAL
I hereby certify that warrants numbered 11091-11095 and 79587-79640 in the amount of $321,369.96 have been
reviewed for payment by the Director of Finance. I further certify Councilmembers of the City of Blythe, CA approved said warrants at the meeting of the May 13, 2025.
Chest Elus
Christa Elms
Director of Finance
Page:
CITY OF BLYTHE
PAYROLL LISTING
Pay period 03/28/2025 to 04/10/2025
Payday 04/18/2025
I hereby certify that payroll warrants numbered 55116 to 55132, and direct deposits warrants numbered 61731 to 61806 in the amount of $301,334.99 have been reviewed for payment by the Director of Finance. I further certify that Councilmembers of the City of Blythe, CA approved said warrants at the meeting of May 13", 2025.
Chest Elus
Director of Finance
CITY OF BLYTHE
PAYROLL LISTING
Pay period 04/11/2025 to 04/24/2025
Payday 05/02/2025
I hereby certify that payroll warrants numbered 55133 to 55151, and direct deposits warrants numbered 61807 to 61883 in the amount of $331,302.57 have been reviewed for payment by the Director of Finance. I further certify that Councilmembers of the City of Blythe, CA approved said warrants at the meeting of May 13, 2025.
[hust Elus
Director of Finance
CITY OF BLYTHE
PAYROLL LISTING
Pay period 04/01/2025 to 04/30/2025
Payday 05/05/2025
I hereby certify that payroll warrants numbered 55152 to 55163, and direct deposits warrants numbered 61884 to 61984 in the amount of $90,353.02 have been reviewed for payment by the Director of Finance. I further certify that Councilmembers of the City of Blythe, CA approved said warrants at the meeting of May 13", 2025.
Chiist Elus
Director of Finance
CITY OF BLYTHE
PAYROLL LISTING
Pay period 04/25/2025 to 05/02/2025
Payday 05/05/2025
I hereby ceil 1, 1462 haras urbered 5r pay and dig t deposit rentane bered ot certify that Councilmembers of the City of Blythe, CA approved said warrants at the meeting of May 13", 2025.
Chish Elus
Director of Finance
Minutes of the Blythe City Council Meeting
April 8, 2025
The April 8, 2025 meeting of the Blythe City Council was called to order at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers by Mayor DeConinck. Also in attendance were Vice Mayor Rodriguez and Council Members Halby, Burton and Spraggins. Staff in attendance included: Interim City Manager and City Clerk Crecelius, City Attorney Roberto, Finance Director and City Treasurer The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mayor DeConinck.
The Invocation was led by Councilman Burton.
PROCLAMATION:
DMV/DONATE LIFE MONTH APRIL 2025. Mayor DeConinck presented a Proclamation to Dave Holland of One Legacy of Southern California and Donate Life.
CONSENT CALENDAR: Items on the Consent Calendar are considered routine and will be enacted with one motion of the Council. If any item requires individual consideration, it will be removed from the consent calendar and acted upon separately.
2. Posting of the Agenda.
The agenda was posted on the bulletin boards on the outside of the public entrance to the Council Chamber and near the inside entrance of the Council Chamber and on the City's website on Friday, April 4, 2025.
3. Approval of the Warrant Register.
Recommendation: Approve 4/08/25, warrants numbered 11008 through 11042 and 79387 through 79441 in the amount of $649,258.86; 4/08/25, Utility Billing Refund warrants numbered 79442 through 79448 in the amount of $605.50 and 4/08/25, warrants numbered 11043 through 11051 and 79449 through 79505 in the amount of $247,631.81.
4. Approval of the Payroll Register.
Deposit warrants numbered 61404 through 614778 in the amount of $308,113.05; 4/08/25, warrants numbered 55067 through 55068 in the amount of $1,032.45; 4/08/25, warrants numbered 55069 through 55085 and Direct Deposit warrants numbered 61479 through 61554 in the amount of $298,910.55; 4/08/25, warrants numbered 55086 through 55103 and Direct Deposit warrants numbered 61555 through 61630 in the amount of $299,380.29 and 4/08/25, +082S warrants numbered 55104 through 55115 and Direct Deposit warrants numbered 61631 through 61730 in the amount of $98,018.14.
5. Minutes of the March 11, 2025. City Council Meeting.
Recommendation: Approve the Minutes of the March 11, 2025, Meeting.
6. Minutes of the March 27, 2025 Special City Council Meeting and Special Closed Session Recommendation: Approve the Minutes of the March 27, 2025 Special Meeting
7. City of Blythe Permits Issued in the Month of March 2025.
Recommendation: Receive and file the monthly report.
8. City of Blythe Fire Department Monthly Activity Report for March 2025.
Recommendation: Receive and file the monthly report.
9. City of Blythe Police Department Monthly Activity Report for March 2025.
Recommendation: Receive and file the monthly report.
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10. Quality of Life Program Activity Report for March 2025.
Recommendation: Receive and file the monthly report.
11. Acceptance of Community Improvement Fund Grant Award.
Recommendation: Authorize the Interim City Manager to accept and expend funds in the amount of $40,000.00 provided by The Palo Verde Valley Community Improvement for officer safety equipment for the Blythe Police Department.
12. Investment Report for Third Quarter Fiscal Year 2024/25.
Recommendation: Accept and file the quarterly Investment Report.
13. Measure A Capital Improvement Plan for Fiscal Year 2026-2030.
Recommendation: Adopt Blythe's Measure A Local Streets and Roads five (5) year Capital Transportation Commission's procedures for fiscal year 2025-2026.
14. Annual Military Equipment Report Pursuant to Assembly Bill 481.
Recommendation: Receive and file the Annual Military Equipment Report.
15. Adoption of Ordinance No. 935-25 Amending Title 17 of the Blythe Municipal Code (Zoning Code Relating to Changes to Implement Various Programs Set Forth in the City's 6 Cycle Housing Element.
Recommended: Adopt Ordinance No. 935-25:
ORDINANCE NO. 935-25. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING TITLE 17 (ZONING) OF THE BLYTHE MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO CHANGES TO IMPLEMENT PROGRAMS SET FORTH IN THE CITY'S 6TH CYCLE HOUSING ELEMENT, INCLUDING ADDING A
NEW HOUSING ELEMENT OVERLAY, ADDING, REVISING, AND DELETING DEFINITIONS, ADDING AND
AMENDING REGULATIONS RELATING TO LOW BARRIER NAVIGATION CENTERS AND VARIOUS TYPES OF
GROUP HOUSING, AMENDING RESIDENTIAL LOT COVERAGE REQUIREMENTS IN THE R-M AND R-H ZONES,
ADDING AND REVISING STANDARDS REGARDING DENSITY IN RESIDENTIAL ZONES, AMENDING PARKING
REQUIREMENTS FOR SPECIFIES RESIDENTIAL USES, AND ADDING REGULATIONS TO IMPLEMENT THE
STATE DENSITY BONUS LAW, AND FINDING THE ORDINANCE IS EXEMPT FROM ENVIRONMENT REVIEW
UNDER THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) PURSUANT TO CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15061(B)(3) (COMMON SENSE EXEMPTION)
Adoption Of Ordinance No. 938-25 Amending Provisions of Chapter 2.65 (Purchasing System) of Title 2 (Administration And Personnel) of The Blythe Municipal Code Relating To Bidding Thresholds and Purchasing Authority, Amendment Authority, Bidding Exemptions, and Surplus Property.
Recommendation: City Council adopt Ordinance No. 938-25 ORDINANCE NO. 935-25. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING PROVISIONS OF CHAPTER 2.65 (PURCHASING SYSTEM) OF TITLE 2 (ADMINISTRATION AND
ERSONNEL) OF THE BLYTHE MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO BIDDING THRESHOLDS AND PURCHASIN
UTHORITY, AMENDMENT AUTHORITY, BIDDING EXEMPTIONS AND SURPLUS PROPERTI No Public Comment. Vice Mayor Rodriguez moved approval of staff's recommendation. The motion was seconded by Councilman Burton with a unanimous aye vote.
PUBLIC HEARING:
Ordinance No. 937-25 Rezoning Two Parcels and Adding a New Section 17.27.050 to Title 17 (Zoning) of the Blythe Municipal Code Waiving the Art in Public Places Impact Fee on Affordable Housing and Special Needs Housing. Interim City Manager Crecelius this is the third in a series of ordinances addressing changes required by the Housing Element. The proposed ordinance implements changes outlined in Program 1.A.4 and Program 2.A.3 of the Housing Element. In Program 1.A.4, the City committed to amending the Zoning Code to require -3
by-right approval of housing development that includes 20 percent of the units as housing affordable to lower income households, applicable to sites being used to meet the 6th Cycle Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) that represent a "reuse" of sites previously identified in the 4th and 5th Cycles Housing Element. As part of implementing this program, the proposed ordinance rezones two parcels, APNs 845030002 and 845030003, by adding a Housing Element Overlay to each parcel. Ordinance No. 935-25, which was introduced at this meeting also implements Program 1.A.4 by adding a HEO zone which allows affordable developments by right and adding regulations in Section 17.08.020 that apply to sites designated as HEO. In Program 2.A.3, the City committed to encouraging the development of housing for extremely low-, very low-, low-, and moderate-income households and for all special needs households through a variety of activities, including, but not limited to, waiving the Art in Public Places development impact fee which is applied to residential development of five or more lots or on five or more acres. The proposed ordinance adds a new Section 17.27.050 to the Zoning Code, which provides that the Art in Public Places fee will not be imposed on any housing project that includes affordable housing at a moderate-income level or below or any special needs housing.
Therefore, it is recommended the City Council, acting as the City's Planning Agency, conduct a public hearing regarding proposed Ordinance No. 937-25.
Public Comment: Kathy Linares of 2545 Fairway Drive stated we have no idea about these items and then you don't discuss it. We have more low-income housing in Blythe per capita than New York city. Do we have any low-income housing specifically for the elderly? We are overrun with low-income housing, but we had a prison, so that made it necessary.
The Public Hearing was conducted.
ORDINANCE NO. 935-25. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, REZONING TWO PARCELS AND ADDING A NEW SECTION 17.27.050 (WAIVER OF FEE) TO CHAPTER 17.27 (ARTS
IN PUBLIC PLACES PROGRAM) OF DIVISION III (DEVELOPMENT AND PERFORMANCE STANDARDS) OF TITLE 17 (ZONING) OF THE BLYTHE MUNICIPAL CODE WAIVING THE ART IN PUBLIC PLACES IMPACT FEE ON AFFORDABLE HOUSING AND SPECIAL NEEDS HOUSING.
Categorical Exemption for the Ocean Pacific Energy Company Compressed Natural Gas Fueling Station and Power Generation Project Pursuant to CEQA Guidelines §15332.
Interim City Manager Crecelius stated Ocean Pacific Energy applied for approval to build and operate a retail compressed natural gas (CNG) heavy duty vehicle fueling station. The proposed project would be located on a leased 4.85-acre site within a property of 78.48 acres south of Interstate 10 and east of U.S. Route 95. The project site is known as the location of the WattEV Electric Vehicle Charging Station Project. The fueling station will serve primarily heavy duty CNG vehicles and will offer public retail and behind the fence fueling. The General Plan and zoning land use designation is General Commercial which allows for the development of vehicle fueling stations. Surrounding land uses include Interstate 10 to the north, a Hampton Inn Hotel to the north, a residential apartment complex to the northeast and agricultural lands to the south and west. The project site is entirely within the City of Blythe and will connect to city utility services. As the Lead Agency under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the City has undertaken preliminary review and determined that the proposed development qualifies for a Categorical Exemption from the provisions of CEQA pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15332 as an in-fill development project. The site is surrounded by a variety of commercial and residential uses. The site lies within the perimeter of City core lands which have been developed -3
in urban uses for decades. The project site is not located in proximity to any wetlands, wildlife refuge, or lands protected under a special habitat conservation management plant. It is determined that the site has no meaningful habitat value for any special-status species, and that a standard measure imposed by the City for protection of nesting birds is applicable as a condition of construction approval and provides adequate species protection for construction at this project site. A traffic analysis was prepared and reported the CNG fueling station would generate up to 501 two-way vehicle trips per day. Project related trips will generate low volume traffic on roadway segments within the City that operate well below capacity and do not experience congestion under existing conditions. Noise generating equipment for the CNG compressors, including micro turbines, operate at low levels estimated to be approximately a maximum of 70 to 75 decibels. CNG/RNG vehicles produce approximately 10 decibels less noise than the diesel trucks they are replacing. The nearest noise sensitive land uses include the Hampton Inn and Suites located approximately 1,000 feet north of the microturbines and the Casa Encinas at River Heights Apartment Complex located approximately 2,000 feet northeast. As part of the assessment of the proposed project a technical analysis of air quality and greenhouse gas emissions was prepared. Intermittent construction emissions that occur from activities such as grading, microturbine installation, and CNG fueling station construction were evaluated. Long term operational emissions would occur from mobile vehicles and natural gas generators. The analysis concludes that construction of the project would be below all MDAQMD significance thresholds and would adhere to the required BMPs ensuring a less than significant impact. The operation of the project would be below all MDAQMD significance thresholds and would not significantly contribute to air pollution or deteriorate local air quality conditions. All air quality and GHG emissions impacts would be less than significant for CEQA purposes. The project will be required to develop and implement a project-specific Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan designed to reduce potential adverse impacts to surface water quality during construction.
Operation water use will be minimal, and no part of the project will result in the discharge of any contaminates that could affect local or regional water quality. Therefore, the project will not result in any significant effects on water quality. City water and sewer lines extend to the property, and connection will be done subject to review and approval of the City Engineer. There is capacity in the City's system to serve this project. It is determined that the site can be adequately served by all required utilities and public services. Based upon review of CEQA guidelines, the City has determined that the proposed project has no conditions as defined in CEQA Guidelines 15300.2 that would make it ineligible for the applicable categorical exemption. Therefore, the proposed project is categorically exempt from CEQA as defined in section 15332 of the CEOA Guidelines. The Notice of Exemption will be filed with the County Clerk following City Council approval.
Public Comment: James Nelligan of OP Energy stated we are very excited about this project, and most excited about getting more diesel fueled trucks off the road. Fleets will be rerouting their trucks to take advantage of this facility, and we've received positive feedback for this project.
Vice Mayor Rodriguez moved approval of staff's recommendation. The motion was seconded by Council Member Burton with a unanimous aye vote.
NEW BUSINESS:
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Report on Emergency Action Taken by Interim City Manager for the Emergency Sinkhole and Manhole Repairs at N. Broadway and Juniper Trail. Interim City Manager Crecelisu stated on March 26,2025, it was brought to the attention of Public Works staff that the pavement near a manhole on North Broadway at Juniper Trail was caving and cracking. It was determined this was being created by a collapsed manhole. After pumping the manhole and lines, removing the dirt and debris, staff determined the falling manhole and roadway paving was required to be repaired along with the rehabilitation of a manhole directly south of the failed manhole. Per Section 2.66.070(B) of the Blythe Municipal Code and the City's Purchasing Policy, in cases of emergency, when it is impractical to convene a meeting of the City Council, the City Manager is authorized to order the repair or replacement of a public facility, take any directly related and immediate action required by that emergency, and procure the necessary equipment, services and supplies for those purposes, without giving notice for bids to let contracts. If the City Manager takes such action, the City Manager is required to report to the City Council at its next regularly scheduled meeting the reasons justifying why the emergency will not permit a delay resulting from a competitive solicitation for bids and why the action is necessary to respond to the emergency. The collapsed manhole on N. Broadway at Juniper Trail could result in sewage leaks, which are a public health and safety issue and could result in fines from the State. The sinkhole in the roadway caused by the failed manhole also posed a health and safety issue. On March 27, 2025, the Interim City Manager determined the failed manhole and sinkhole constituted an emergency, as defined by Public Contract Code section 1102, and directed staff to move forward with the repairs. Staff obtained a quote from Robert Yates dba Cholla Construction for the above-described work. An agreement was prepared by the City Attorney on March 28, 2025. The agreement was executed, and the contactor commenced work on the emergency repairs on March 29, 2025. The emergency action was necessary because there was a need to repair the failed and failing manholes and repair the street immediately to protect public health and safety and to avoid potential fines from the State. Further, if the City followed competitive bidding requirements for the repair work, it would take approximately 2-3 months before a contractor would start the repairs. Therefore, the emergency will not permit a delay resulting from a competitive solicitation for bids. Therefore, it is recommended Council review the emergency action for the emergency sinkhole and manhole repairs at N. Broadway and Juniper Trail. It is further recommended that the Council authorize the Interim City Manager to accept the work when completed to the satisfaction of Public Works Department staff and authorize the City Clerk to file the Notice of Completion upon such acceptance and to release project bonds once appropriate.
Council Member Halby asked about preventive maintenance to keep this from happening in the future.
Public Comment: Kathy Linars of 2545 Fairway Drive stated a lot of our roads are in urgent need. You get funds every year for roads. The roads didn't get like this overnight. What do we need to do for some action at the Golf Course? I have lived there for 25 years, and it has neve been paved. I feel like we are spending our money on consulting.
Council Member Halby moved approval of staff's recommendation. The motion was seconded by Council Member Burton with a unanimous aye vote.
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Fiscal Year 2024/25 Mid-Year Financial Report and Budget Adjustments. Finance Director Elms stated on June 11, 2024 the City Council adopted the FY 2024/25 Operating and Capital Budget. The Mid-year review is an essential element of the budget process. The focus today will be on the City's General Fund, using the first six months of actual data. This allows for an opportunity to update Council and make necessary adjustments. At Mid-year, General Fund revenue actuals are at 32%, or $5.2 million of a $16.1 million budget. Revenues tend to trend below 50% at mid-year due to timing of receipts. Revenue is expected to end the year at $15.3 million, which is 5% below the adopted budget. Sales tax projections are the primary factor and are projected to end the year by 14% below budget. Blythe's sales from July - September of 2024 were down 12% compared to the same period in the previous year.
Expenditures are $9 million or 58% of a $16.5 million budget. Departmental expenditure should trend close to 50% at mid-year, with General Government trending above 50% due to payments for pension liabilities and debt payments. On average, the departments are operating at 43% of their budget at mid-year when general government expenditure is factored out. Expenditures are projected to end the year by 4% under budget. There are no notable variations in expenditures.
This is also the time for recommended amendments to the budget. Amendments include a decrease in sales tax revenue by $200,000 for Bradley Burnes and a decrease in Measure K of $500,000, an increase in sanitation Franchise fees of $75,000, an increase in PACT fees of $162,000 which was formally approved by Council, an increase in various grant revenue in the ALLA amount of $299,000, all of which have been formally adopted by Council and an increase in recreation revenue by $10,000. In expenditures, there is a proposed increase in General Fund appropriations of $388,000, an increase in various expenditure accounts of $370,000 for PACT, contract and grant related costs and an increase in Recreation Center expenditures of $18,000.
Many general fund revenues are performing as expected or better than expected. Departments are holding to their budget. If the City stays on course, the General Fund will see another positive year. Revenues are outpacing expenditures, even with the adoption of the proposed amendments.
There is a decrease in Measure A transfers from a delay in using STIP Trade funds and revenue updates received. There is a decrease in a transfer to street projects due to the delay in starting a project with the County of Riverside. There is an increase in sanitation fees due to a change in contract and grant revenue. There is a decrease in water fund revenue due to grant revenue receipted in the prior year. Notable expenditure amendments include a decrease in Measure A transfers, a decrease in the street fund for delay with a project and an increase in the sanitation funds related to the compost service. It is recommended you receive and file the Mid-year Budget Report and adopt Resolution No. 2025-003 Amending the FY 2024/25 Budget.
Council Member Halby asked if the delay in project start will mean it will cost more and highlighted and the increase in workers' compensation costs. entertainment is $10,000? Blythe has nothing now besides the Golf Course. Many years ago, we had a movie theater and a bowling alley. We have no entertainment or medical. You have Admin at $225,000 and Attorney at $297,000. Is that because we don't have a City Planner and are using he Attorney to make Ordinances? We haven't hired a Planner or City Engineer since 2013. W have an Interim City Manager. Why don't we have any professionals in our Building Department?
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Vice Mayor Rodriguez moved approval of staff's recommendation. The motion was seconded by Council Member Burton with a unanimous aye vote.
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-003. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING THE OPERATING AND CAPITAL BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024-2025.
Hiring a Temporary Part-time Employee for the Wastewater Treatment Plant.
Interim City Manager Crecelius stated the Wastewater Treatment Plant has three budgeted operator positions and one budgeted Wastewater Treatment Plant supervisor position. Due to the recent retirement of the Plant Supervisor, there are three operators running the Plant which is staffed 7 days a week. One of the operators is on unexpected medical leave which has created a critical staffing shortage at the Wastewater Treatment Plant. Staff identified a previous employee of the City's WWTP, Victor Williams, with a Grade II WWTP certification. The Grade II license is required to work at the plant without the supervision of another operator. This would allow the City's Grade II Operator to take days off, which he has not had since the week of March 10th.
Mr. Williams is willing to work for the City two days a week for a limited term. This would allow current staff adequate days off while the long-term staffing issues at the plant are addressed. As having been previously employed at the Wastewater Treatment Plant from 2018 to 2021, Mr. Willaims is familiar with the WWTP and how it operates. Mr. Williams will work at the plant on Sundays and Mondays until the Plant is no longer at critical staffing levels. If approved, Mr. Williams will report to work on Sunday, April 13, 2025. Therefore, it is recommended the City Council approve the hiring of one part-time, temporary employee as a Grade II Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator necessary due to staffing shortages at the Plant and adopt Resolution No. 2025-002, approving the revised schedule of authorized positions necessary for this action. Exhibit A of the Resolution was inadvertently left out of the Agenda.
Revised copies of the Resolution with Exhibit have been provided to you and the Public and should be made part of the record.
No public comment. Vice Mayor Rodriguez moved approval of staff's recommendation. The motion was seconded by Council Member Spraggins with a unanimous aye vote.
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-002. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING THE REVISED SCHEDULE OF AUTHORIZED POSITIONS.
Partnership with the Blythe Chamber of Commerce on a Tourism and Economic Development Video Project. Interim City Manager Crecelius stated staff has wanted to create a video for use in the City's economic development pursuits for several years. The idea was floated by the Palo Verde Economic Alliance committee a few years ago. At the time, the Chamber planned to create their own tourism video. Without a partner, staff pursued other avenues, and the City's PR firm submitted a quote for a video production with their annual agreement renewal, but funding was not awarded for the project at that time. There is renewed interest from the Chamber in partnering with the City on a video project. Proposals for a video were received from JamSpot Media in the amount of $ 22,500 for the development of two commercials and support trailers and $19,000 for one commercial and supporting trailer/video short. Tripepi Smith provided a proposal for $20,000 for a one-minute commercial, 10-15 photos and a 1 minute social media video and $30,000 for a one-minute commercial, 20-30 photos and three 1-minute social media videos. MT Entertainment submitted a proposal for $4,500 for a 2-3-minute commercial and short promotional clips. Each company had impressive presentations and video ideas, but MT -3
Entertainment is willing to do the work for a fraction of the cost. The owner is a Chamber Member and partners with the Chamber on events. As such, he is offering his services at a discounted price to help the chamber and the City in our pursuit of attracting visitors and businesses to Blythe. To streamline the project, staff suggest the Chamber hire MT Entertainment. The City and Chamber would execute a Memorandum of Understanding outlining our respective roles and responsibilities. The City will issue payment to the Chamber for half of the cost, once the video is complete. Therefore, it is recommended Council authorize staff to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding with the Chamber of Commerce for the production of a commercial length video and a series of short promotional clips and issue payment of $2,250 which is half the project cost to the Blythe Chamber of Commerce.
No public comment. Vice Mayor Rodriguez moved approval of Staff's recommendation. The motion was seconded by Council Member Burton with a unanimous aye vote.
ORAL REPORTS:
Council Member Halby stated related to entertainment, it's not true. We had a free concert for the community behind my shop last Sunday. Matt Faris played. It was well attended with funds raised for the community by Prime Leaf. The City isn't in the business of opening businesses, but we encourage businesses to come in and open businesses in Blythe. There is red tape you would go through in any City in California.
Council Member Burton gave a shout out to Public Works for the Broadway Manhole repair.
PUBLIC COMMENT: None
ADJOURN: The City Council meeting was adjourned at 6:59pm.
Joseph DeConinck, Mayor
ATTEST:
Mallory Crecelius, City Clerk
- 3'
5/5/2025 City of Blythe Page 1
8:34:33AM PERMITS ISSUED
For the Period 4/1/2025 thru 4/30/2025
Permit No./Issued
Applied/Approved Type/Sub-Type/Status Site Address and Parcel No. Owner and Contractor Valuation Fees Paid SAB2504-010 ELEC 445 EARLE STREET CHAD GRUBBS 43,364.00 833.64 833.64 4/17/2025 SOLAR 851142029 BRIGHT PLANET SOLAR INC
4/17/2025 ISSUED Permit Name PV + ST
SAB2504-002 ELEC 596 SOUTH SOLANO AVENUE CEASAR R VASQUEZ TRUST 37,260.00 882.84 882.84 4/8/2025 SOLAR 869032006 BRIGHT PLANET SOLAR INC
1482025 ISSUED Permit Name PV + ST
SAB2504-007 ELEC 2631 FAIRWAY DRIVE RACHEAL DUARTE 46,641.60 833.06 833.06 4/8/2025 SOLAR 821241008 LCY INSTALLATION SERVICE
21823025 ISSUED Permit Name PV + ST
B2503-022 ELEC 401 NORTH NINTH STREET ASHBY C ANDERSON 4,900.00 297.00 297.00 4/9/2025 851033008 JOHNSON CYLE ELECTRIC INC
44772235 ISSUED Permit Name 100 A to 200 A
SAB2504-003 ELEC 621 NORTH NINTH STREET STEVEN & NINA MOORE 48,375.90 1,021.29 1,021.29 4/9/2025 SOLAR 857064001 LGCY INSTALLATION SERVICE
4/9/2025 ISSUED Permit Name PV & ST
SAB2504-004 ELEC 334 VILLAGE DRIVE CLAYTON & PLEMMONS ET AI 55,156.96 952.17 952.17 4/10/2025 SOLAR 842161050 PORTICADE ENERGY LLC
4/10/2025 ISSUED Permit Name PV+ST
SAB2504-005 ELEC 265 NORTH DATE ROAD NORMA RUIZ RAMIREZ 62,074.00 1,024.07 1,024.07 4/10/2025 SOLAR 851102004 LGCY INSTALLATION SERVICI
14/10/2025 ISSUED Permit Name PV & ST
SAB2504-006 ELEC 291 NORTH BIRCH STREET EVELYN & CYLE GEORGE 65,952.60 0.00 0.00 4/11/2025 SOLAR 851071024 LGCY INSTALLATION SERVICE
1/1/2025 DENIED, Permit Name This is a MH
SAB2504-001 ELEC 2760 COLORADO RIVER ROAL ANDRE & FARIDA BLAKEY 83,147.00 812.81 812.81 4/4/2025 833360040 FREEDOM FOREVER LIC
4/20 ISSUED Permit Name PV + ST
4/201
SAB2504-009 ELEC 371 NORTH EIGHTH STREET MARK L SCHRINER 61,008.00 699.93 699.93 4/15/2025 851023013 FREEDOM FOREVER LLC
/15/202 ISSUED Permit Name PV + ST
/15/202
SAB2504-015 ELEC 214 SOUTH SPRING STREET JEROME WILLIAMS 29,526.00 693.84 0.00 4/30/2025 SOLAR 848053001 CLEAN ENERGY SOLUTIONS I
1/30/2025 ISSUED Permit Name PV & ST
SAB2504-011 ELEC 626 NORTH LOVEKIN BOULEY ANTONIO & MARIA AGUILAR 42,460.00 0.00 0.00 4/17/2025 842041037 BRIGHT PLANET SOLAR INC
4/17/2025 NEED MORE INFO Permit Name PV + ST
B2504-014 ELEC 408 EAST CHAPARRAL DRIVE DEREK RANKIN 750.00 297.00 297.00 4/24/2025 842200017 BURROW CONSTRUCTION
22232025 ISSUED Permit Name Repairs & Uperade
SAB2504-012 ELEC 515 WEST CALIFORNIA STREE ARYANNA CATTELL 22,000.00 583.86 583.86 4/21/2025 SOLAR 842131019 STEVE GRIFFIN CONSTRUCTK
1/21/202 FINALED Permit Name PV & ST
/21/202
PERM133
-3
5/5/2025 City of Blythe Page 2
8:34:33AM PERMITS ISSUED
For the Period 4/1/2025 thru 4/30/2025
B2504-002 ELEC 480 NORTH LOVEKIN BOULET ANGELICA GALLEGOS 77,244.60 1,121.04 1,121.04 4/22/2025 SOLAR 845022022 HELIOGOLD
1/202 ISSUED Permit Name PV + ST & MPU
9/202
SAB2504-013 ELEC 349 NORTH FIFTH STREET DENISE ROMERO 40,000.00 695.20 695.20 4/22/2025 845190040 ALLTECH SOLAR INC
22/202 ISSUED Permit Name PV + ST
22/202
SAB2504-014 ELEC 351 BRISTLECONE AVENUE GERALDO & LOURDES ARELL. 40,000.00 696.20 0.00 4/30/2025 SOLAR 854122004 STEVE GRIFFIN CONSTRUCTK
1/30/2025 ISSUED Permit Name PV & ST
B2504-009 ELEC 470 SOUTH FIFTH STREET RUTH & MARCELINO LUNA 15,350.44 767.00 767.00 4/30/2025 SOLAR 848172038 GRID ALTERNATIVES
41162025 ISSUED Permit Name Roof Solar w/MPU & batteries SAB2505-001 ELEC 2438 RIVIERA DRIVE JAY & DEBRA ARNESON 31,312.00 1,019.07 0.00 4/29/2025 SOLAR 875280016 DEMAND CONSTRUCTION INC
423/2025 DENIED Permit Name This is aMH
SAB2504-008 ELEC 202 SOUTH FOURTH STREET CODY E SHERMAN 73,603.20 838.57 838.57 4/15/2025 SOLAR 848092026 IGCY INSTALLATION SERVICE
2115/2025 ISSUED Permit Name PV & ST
Total for: ELEC 880,126.30 14,068.59 11,659.48
Permit No./Issued
Applied/Approved Type/Sub-Type/Status Site Address and Parcel No. Owner and Contractor Valuation ENCROACHMENT East Hobsonway & Date Road CITY OF BLYTHE RIGHT OF WA 14,008.00 4/24/2025 FRONTIER CALIFORNIA INC
4232025 ISSUED Permit Name WO#50153-5380004
Total for: ENCROACHMENT 14,008.00 687.00 687.00
Permit No./Issued
Applied/Approved Type/Sub-Type/Status Site Address and Parcel No. Owner and Contractor Valuation Fees Paid B2504-001 OTHER 1271 NORTH EUCALYPTUS AVI OSCAR & KRISTINA GAMEZ 11,500.00 958.40 958.40 4/10/2025 839010009 OWNER
1192025 ISSUED Permit Name Changeout Doors, New Walls & Window Total for: OTHER 11,500.00 958.40 958.40
Permit No./Issued
Applied/Approved Type/Sub-Type/Status Site Address and Parcel No. Owner and Contractor Valuation Fees Paid 840 EAST HOBSONWAY ALBERTSONS LIC 3,690.00 147.00 147.00
BACKFLOW CRECELIUS INC
Permit Name BACKFLOW
Total for: PLUMB 3,690.00 147.00 147.00
Permit No./Issued
Applied/Approved Type/Sub-Type/Status Site Address and Parcel No. Owner and Contractor Valuation Fees Paid PFRM133 COW
-3:
5/5/2025 City of Blythe Page
8:34:33AM PERMITS ISSUED
For the Period 4/1/2025 thru 4/30/2025
B2504-024 REMOVE-C 495 NORTH MAIN STREET ANTHONY F ROSSETTI 96,000.00 0.00 0.0 4/25/2025 845040018 R & I. WATKINS INC
1/25/202: ISSUED Permit Name
1/25/202:
Total for: REMOVE-C 96,000.00 •0.00 0.0
Permit No./Issued
Applied/Approved Type/Sub-Type/Status Site Address and Parcel No. Owner and Contractor Valuation Fees Pai B2504-007 1050 NORTH LOVEKIN BOULE KAJA HOLDINGS 2 800.00 182.50 182.5 4/9/2025 TEAR OFF 839031013 OWNER
419/2025 ISSUED Permit Name TEAR OFF ON CARPORT
B2504-005 RERF 508 WEST CALIFORNIA STREE JACQUELYNER VASQUEZ 16,618.00 348.44 348.4 4/14/2025 TEAR OFF 842132010 COWBOYS ROOFING INC
4172025 FINALED Permit Name TEAR OFF
B2504-008 RERF 202 SOUTH FOURTH STREET CODY E SHERMAN 14,481.00 313.54 313.5 4/14/2025 TEAR OFF 848092026 COWBOYS ROOFING INC
4/1/2025 ISSUED Permit Name TEAR OFF, 1900 sq it
Total for: RERF 31,899.00 844.48 844.4
Permit No./Issued
Applied/Approved Type/Sub-Type/Status Site Address and Parcel No. Owner and Contractor Valuation Fees Pai RIVCOUNTY 11332 DESERT TRAILWAYS LA: CORTAZAR & GONZALES 0.00 427.50 427.51 836160007 SUNRUN INSTALLATION SERV
20/202 ISSUED Permit Name Roof Mount Solar
7/202
Total for: RIVCOUNTY 0.00 427.50 427.51
28 Permits Issued from 4/1/2025 Thru 4/30/2025 Total Valuation: $1,037,223.30 Total Fees: $17,132.97
Total Fees Paid: S14,723.86
5/5/2025 City of Blythe Page
8:38:23AM Permits Applications Received
For the Period 4/1/2025 thru 4/30/2025
Permit No. Applied Type Subtype Status Site Address/Parcel No. Applicant/Owner/Contractor L2504-001 4/7/2025 BUSINESSLICENS: APPLIED 127 WEST HOBSONWAY ALVAREZ THE PLANTS LADY Permit Name 845133022 GRANT & CHERRY MAYFIELD
Description:
1 Permit Applications from 4/1/2025 Thru 4/30/2025
-4
5/5/2025 City of Blythe Page
8:38:03AM
Permits Applications Received
For the Period 4/1/2025 thru 4/30/2025
Permit No. Applied Type Subtype Site Address/Parcel No. Applicant/Owner/Contractor 4/10/2025 BURNPERMIT FINALED 304 NORTH CARLTON AVENUE FRANK LEIVAS 836062021 MARGARET LEIVAS
4/16/2025 BURNPERMIT FINALED 942 WEST BARNARD STREET OWNER ermit Name Piled Wood Waste/Brus 836090015 GILBERT & ROSALIA GUILIN escription: BURN ONLY ON DESIGNATED BURN DAYS AND WHEN THE NATIONAL, WEATHE FORCASTS THAT WIND SPEEDS ARE TO BE FORCAST BELOW 15 MPH AND THERE IS NO INVERSION LAYER.
BP2504-003 4/22/2025 BURNPERMIT FINALED 2047 AGATE TERRACE ROAD OWNER Permit Name TUMBLEWEEDS 857190012 MICHAEL & CINDY LANCE Description:
4/25/2025 BURNPERMIT FINALED 200 BLK WEST CHANSLORWAY SHORTY & HULL 842070007 DAWN L BROWN TRUST
Description:
4 Permit Applications from 4/1/2025 Thru 4/30/2025
5/5/2025 City of Blythe
8:40:48AM Permits Finaled
For the Period 4/1/2025 thru 4/30/2025
Permit No. Iss/Finaled Type/Sub-Type Site Addr / Parcel No. / Applicant Lot/BldE Size Lot & Block Tract & Subdivision SAB2412-008 12/30/2024 ELEC 584 EAST CHAPARRAL DRIVE
4/29/2025 SOLAR 842216007
PORTICADE ENERGY LLC
33 Permits Finaled from 4/1/2025 Thru 4/30/2025
5/5/2025 City of Blythe
8:49:42AM
Cases Opened (By Type)
For the Period 4/1/2025 thru 4/30/2025
Type of Case Number opened
BLDG
COMPLAINT
DEBRIS, 1
DUMPING 1
HAZMAT
WEED 1
WITNESS IN FIELD 1
ZONING 4
Total Cases Opened: 15
Closed in April: 21
Remaining: 292
-4
5/5/2025
City of Blythe Page
8:47:28AM
Projects by Type, Status and Date
For the Period 4/1/2025 thru 4/30/2025
PLANNER NAME: MALLORY CRECELIUS
Project Number Project Type Project Name Status of Project Owner Name Date Applied Date Approved
Site Address Date Expired Date Closed
CUP2504-001 CUP Evana's Activity Center RECIEVED
HECTOR GOMEZ 4/24/2025
400 WEST HOBSONWAY
Comments:
Total Projects for MALLORY CRECELIUS For the Period 4/1/2025 thru 4/30/2025: 1 515/2025 Page
City of Blythe :
8:47:28AM
Projects by Type, Status and Date
For the Period 4/1/2025 thru 4/30/2025
PLANNER NAME: MICHELLE VAN DYKE
Project Number Project Type Project Name Status of Project Owner Name Date Applied Date Approved
Site Address Date Expired Date Closed
TUP2504-001 TUP Rotary Cinco de Mayo Event APPROVED
JOSEPH MICHAEL HALBY III 4/17/2025 4/30/2025
135 NORTH COMMERCIAL STREET 4/30/2025
Comments:
VP2504-001 VACANT PROPERTY RECIEVED
ROBERT A GEORGE 4/17/2025
2105 WEST HOBSONWAY
Comments:
Total Projects for MICHELLE VAN DYKE For the Period 4/1/2025 thru 4/30/2025: 2 -4
5/5/2025 City of Blythe Page 3
8:47:28AM
Projects by Type, Status and Date
For the Period 4/1/2025 thru 4/30/2025
PLANNER NAME: RICKY AGUILAR
Project Number Project Type Project Name Status of Project Owner Name Date Applied Date Approved
Site Address Date Expired Date Closed
G2504-001 GRAFFITI bus stop bench COMPLETED
4/1/2025
600 block of W WELLS ST
Comments:
G2504-002 GRAFFITI fire hydren COMPLETED
4/1/2025
100 block of S SPRING ST
Comments:
G2504-003 GRAFFITI stop sign COMPLETED
4/1/2025
14000 block of S COMMERCIAL ST
Comments:
G2504-004 GRAFFITI no right turns sign COMPLETED
4/1/2025
14000 block of S COMMERCIAL ST
Comments:
G2504-005 GRAFFITI covered graffiti COMPLETED
ARTURO SOTO 4/1/2025
648 WEST RICE STREET
Comments:
G2504-006 GRAFFITI fire hydren COMPLETED
4/1/2025
200 block of E OASIS ST
Comments:
G2504-007 GRAFFITI sidewalk COMPLETED
4/1/2025
700 block of E 14TH AVE
Comments:
G2504-008 GRAFFITI stop sign COMPLETED
4/1/2025
500 block of N STH ST
Comments:
G2504-009 GRAFFITI playground COMPLETED
CITY OF BLYTHE 4/3/2025
375 EAST DONLON STREET
Comments:
PRONS
CRWSYSTEMS,
5/5/2025 City of Blythe Page 4
8:47:28AM Projects by Type, Status and Date
For the Period 4/1/2025 thru 4/30/2025
G2504-010 GRAFFITI picnic area canopy COMPLETED
4/3/2025
300 block of BRISTLECONE AVE
Comments:
G2504-011 GRAFFITI fire hydren COMPLETED
4/3/2025
1300 block of SUNSET DR
Comments:
G2504-012 GRAFFITI stop sign COMPLETED
4/3/2025
400 block of RIVER VALLEY AVE
Comments:
G2504-014 GRAFFITI speed limit sign COMPLETED
4/3/2025
1300 block of E 14TH AVE
Comments:
G2504-015 GRAFFITI stop sign COMPLETED
4/3/2025
500 block of WILLIAMS RD
Comments:
G2504-016 GRAFFITI stop sign COMPLETED
4/3/2025
500 block of BELL LN
Comments:
G2504-017 GRAFFITI stop sign COMPLETED
4/3/2025
500 block of GATE WAY ST
Comments:
G2504-018 GRAFFITI sewer lift COMPLETED
4/3/2025
300 block of S INTAKE BLVD
Comments:
G2504-019 GRAFFITI sewer lift COMPLETED
4/8/2025
300 block of S INTAKE BLVD
Comments:
G2504-020 GRAFFITI covered graffiti COMPLETED
DESERT HORIZON 4/8/2025
691 WEST HOBSONWAY
Comments:
PROMS
CRW/SYSTEMS,
5/5/2025 City of Blythe Page 5
8:47:28AM Projects by Type, Status and Date
For the Period 4/1/2025 thru 4/30/2025
G2504-021 GRAFFITI covered graffiti COMPLETED
HPD RIVERSIDE & NATL HOUSING C 4/8/2025
200 NORTH LOVEKIN BOULEVARD
Comments:
G2504-022 GRAFFITI P.V.I.D canal COMPLETED
4/8/2025
2200 block of E DONLON ST
Comments:
G2504-023 GRAFFITI fire hydren COMPLETED
4/8/2025
2000 block of E DONLON ST
Comments:
G2504-024 GRAFFITI speed limit sign COMPLETED
4/8/2025
300 block of E DEKEMA ST
Comments:
G2504-025 GRAFFITI stop sign COMPLETED
4/8/2025
300 alley way of E DEKEMA ST
Comments:
G2504-026 GRAFFITI stop sign COMPLETED
4/8/2025
200 block of SIST ST
Comments:
G2504-027 GRAFFITI covered graffiti COMPLETED
CAZAREZ & CONTREIAS 4/10/2025
118 WEST RICE STREET
Comments:
G2504-028 GRAFFITI speed limit sign COMPLETED
4/10/2025
1300 block of E CHANSLORWAY
Comments:
G2504-029 GRAFFITI light pole COMPLETED
4/10/2025
100 block of N SPRING ST
Comments:
G2504-030 GRAFFITI COVERED GRAFFITI COMPLETED
KEHL FAMILY TRUST 4/10/2025
213 W HOBSONWAY
Comments:
PRO1S
CRW/SYSTEMS,
5/5/2025 City of Blythe Page 6
8:47:28AM Projects by Type, Status and Date
For the Period 4/1/2025 thru 4/30/2025
G2504-031 GRAFFITI stop sign COMPLETED
4/10/2025
100 alley way of N MAIN ST
Comments:
G2504-032 GRAFFITI fire hydren COMPLETED
4/10/2025
400 block of N 3RD ST
Comments:
G2504-033 GRAFFITI stop sign COMPLETED
4/10/2025
400 block of N 3RD ST
Comments:
G2504-034 GRAFFITI fire hydren COMPLETED
4/10/2025
700 block of E WISCONSIN
Comments:
G2504-035 GRAFFITI speed limit sign COMPLETED
4/10/2025
300 block of N 5TH ST
Comments:
G2504-036 JOYCE A WONG LIVING TRUST Deed grafit GRAFFITI COMPLETED 4/15/2025
1588 EAST HOBSONWAY
Comments:
G2504-037 GRAFFITI covered graffiti COMPLETED
890 HOBSON LLC 4/15/2025
890 EAST HOBSONWAY
Comments:
G2504-038 GRAFFITI P.V.I.D canal COMPLETED
4/15/2025
2200 block of E DONLON ST
Comments:
G2504-039 GRAFFITI covered graffiti COMPLETED
COACHELLA VALLEY HOUSING COALI 4/15/2025
170 SOUTH SPRING STREET
Comments:
G2504-040 GRAFFITI light pole COMPLETED
4/17/2025
200 block of N CARLTON AVE
Comments:
PROIIS
CRW/SYSTEMS,
5/5/2025 City of Blythe Page 7
8:47:28AM Projects by Type, Status and Date
For the Period 4/1/2025 thru 4/30/2025
G2504-041 GRAFFITI covered graffiti COMPLETED
NEW COMMUNICATIONS OF THE SOUT 4/17/2025
400 EAST RICE STREET
Comments:
G2504-042 GRAFFITI stop sign COMPLETED
4/17/2025
200 block of S 3RD ST
Comments:
G2504-043 GRAFFITI stop sign COMPLETED
4/17/2025
300 block of W RICE ST
Comments:
G2504-044 GRAFFITI covered graffiti COMPLETED
LA CASITA CAFE INC 4/17/2025
830 WEST RICE STREET
Comments:
G2504-045 GRAFFITI palm tree COMPLETED
4/17/2025
800 block of W RICE ST
Comments:
G2504-046 GRAFFITI do not enter sign COMPLETED
4/17/2025
600 block of E DEKEMA ST
Comments:
G2504-047 GRAFFITI covered graffiti COMPLETED
VALLADOLID ET AL 4/22/2025
1573 EAST HOBSONWAY
Comments:
G2504-048 GRAFFITI covered graffiti COMPLETED
GOTTBERG & ENTIN ET AL 4/22/2025
149 EAST HOBSONWAY
Comments:
G2504-049 GRAFFITI covered graffiti COMPLETED
HAMID AGHASSI 4122/2025
266 COTTONWOOD LANE
Comments:
G2504-050 GRAFFITI covered graffiti COMPLETED
HOBSON HOSPITALITY 4/22/2025
1673 EAST HOBSONWAY
Comments:
PROI1S CRWSYSTEMS
-4
5/5/2025 City of Blythe Page 8
8:47:28AM Projects by Type, Status and Date
For the Period 4/1/2025 thru 4/30/2025
G2504-051 GRAFFITI baracade COMPLETED
4/22/2025
200 block of DATE RD
Comments:
G2504-052 GRAFFITI stop sign COMPLETED
4/22/2025
100 block of N 5TH ST
Comments:
G2504-053 GRAFFITI stop sign COMPLETED
4/22/2025
200 block of W WELLS ST
Comments:
G2504-054 GRAFFITI on way sign COMPLETED
4/22/2025
600 block of W DONLON ST
Comments:
G2504-055 GRAFFITI stop sign COMPLETED
4/22/2025
500 block of W DONLON ST
Comments:
G2504-056 GRAFFITI covered graffiti COMPLETED
COACHELLA VALLEY HOUSING COALI' 4/24/2025
170 SOUTH SPRING STREET
Comments:
G2504-057 GRAFFITI covered graffiti COMPLETED
DESERT HORIZON 4/24/2025
691 WEST HOBSONWAY
Comments:
G2504-058 GRAFFITI P.V.I.D canal COMPLETED
4/24/2025
2200 block of E DONLON ST
Comments:
G2504-059 GRAFFITI COB sewer lift COMPLETED
4/24/2025
300 block of S INTAKE BLVD
Comments:
G2504-060 GRAFFITI COB sewer lift COMPLETED
4/29/2025
300 block of S INTAKE BLVD
Comments:
PRONS
CRV SYSTEMS,
5/5/2025 City of Blythe Page 9
8:47:28AM Projects by Type, Status and Date
For the Period 4/1/2025 thru 4/30/2025
G2504-061 GRAFFITI COB trash can COMPLETED
4129/2025
200 block of W BARNARD ST
Comments:
G2504-062 GRAFFITI COB trash can COMPLETED
4/29/2025
100 block of W CHANSLORWAY
Comments:
G2504-063 GRAFFITI fire hydren COMPLETED
4/29/2025
300 block of N SOLANO AVE
Comments:
G2504-064 GRAFFITI front door COMPLETED
SYLVIA MARCOTTE CLOUTIER 4129/2025
200 WEST HOBSONWAY
Comments:
G2504-065 GRAFFITI light pole COMPLETED
4/29/2025
100 block of N MAIN ST
Comments:
G2504-066 GRAFFITI speed limit sign COMPLETED
4/29/2025
800 block of N BROADWAY
Comments:
G2504-067 GRAFFITI watch for children sign COMPLETED
4/29/2025
200 block of BIRCH ST
Comments:
G2504-068 GRAFFITI stop sign COMPLETED
4/29/2025
400 block of HOLLEY LANE
Comments:
G2504-069 GRAFFITI stop sign COMPLETED
4/29/2025
500 block of HOLLEY LANE
Comments:
G2504-070 GRAFFITI stop sign COMPLETED
4/29/2025
1100 block of N EUCALYPTUS ST
Comments:
Total Projects for RICKY AGUILAR For the Period 4/1/2025 thru 4/30/2025: 69 PRO115
CRV SYSTEMS,
CITY OF BLYTHE FIRE DEPARTMENT
MONTHLY INCIDENT AND ACTIVITY REPORT
April 2025
Incident Total
Public Assist / Rescue / Medical Aid 34
Structure 2
Brush, Grass, Leaves 11
Trash, Rubbish, Dumpster 2
Arching Electric Equip./Power Line Down 1
Other 5
Total # of Incidents 55
Activity
Drills 4
Staff Meeting 1
6 Races
Total Activities
Respectfully Submitted
Ronald Hasler, Fire Chief
-5
• CHIEF
BLITHE
BLYTHE POLICE DEPARTMENT
240 North Spring Street • Blythe, CA 92225 • (760) 922-6111 Garth V. Dale, Chief of Police
OL IC POLION
Monthly Incident and Activity Report
April 2025
Incident Total
Resident Burglaries 3
Commercial Burglaries
Vehicle Burglaries
Domestic Violence
Battery
Grand Theft
Petty Theft
Shoplifting
Traffic Collision-Injury
Traffic Collision-Non injury
Traffic Collision-Hit and Run
Driving Under the Influence
Vandalisms
Trespassing
Prowlers
Public Intoxication 2
Alarm 19
Abandoned Vehicle Abatement 6
AVA Vehicles Tows
Vehicle Red Tags 1
Hospital Helicopter Landings 3
Documented Police Reports 163
Total Incidents 1327
-5
CHIEF
BLITHO
BLYTHE POLICE DEPARTMENT
240 North Spring Street • Blythe, CA 92225 • (760) 922-6111 Garth V. Dale, Chief of Police
OLICY
POLICE
Quality of Life Program
The statistics listed below reflect total numbers of the Quality-of-Life Program for April 2025.
Quality of Life Detail: April Year to Date
People contacted. 126 411
People given bus tickets and left town to seek resources 2 17 elsewhere.
People assisted with obtaining their ID or Social Security 5 12 Cards to register for housing and assistance.
People transported to or referred to DPSS/Mental Health. 34 180 People detained under 5150 Welfare and institutions_ 4 19 Code and transported for treatment.
People sent to rehab. 1 3
People sent for substance abuse._ 2 7
People picked up by a family member and taken home. 1 1 out of town.
Patrol assisted
Enforcement action taken(Arrests and Warrants). 2
Traffic Detail:
Citations issued for various traffic related violations._ 9 13 Traffic enforcement/ vehicle stops resulting in warnings for. 20 minor violations.
Vehicles stored 1 5
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FIRIT SUARTE
CITY OF BLYTHE
Blythe CITY COUNCIL MEETING
STAFF REPORT
LETSHED
MEETING DATE: May 13, 2025
SUBJECT: General Plan Annual Report for 2024
PRESENTED BY: Mallory Crecelius
PREPARED BY: Michelle Van Dyke
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council receive and file the Annual ¡eneral Plan Report for 2024 and authorize staff to forward the report to the Governor's Offic f Planning and Research (OPR) and the Department of Housing and Community Developmen (HCD) per Government Code Section 65400.
FISCAL IMPACT: None
BACKGROUND: State law requires every city and county to prepare and adopt a comprehensive, long-term general plan for the physical development of the city or county.
Policy and project decisions made by the City as well as projects initiated by staff such as land use approvals, zoning code updates, subdivision, city projects and programs and capital improvement projects must be consistent with the goals and policies contained within the General Plan. State law requires a General Plan to include the following elements: Land Use, Circulation, Housing, Conservation, Open Space, Noise and Safety.
Periodically, each of the above elements must be updated to comply with changing state law requirements. On August 13, 2024, the City Council adopted the City's 6th Cycle Housing Element for the 2021-2029 period. The Housing Element was officially approved by the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) on August 29, 2024.
STAFF REPORT: Pursuant to Government Code Section 65400(a)(2), all cities and counties must submit to their legislative bodies an annual report on the progress made in the implementation of the goals and objectives contained within the General Plan. In addition, the annual report must be submitted to the Governor's Office of Planning and Research (OPR) and HCD. The annual report gives the OPR the opportunity to identify statewide trends in land use decision-making and local planning and development activities.
On March 27, 2025, the City Council received and filed and authorized staff to forward the Housing Element portion of the Annual Progress Report to OPR and HCD. The remaining portions of the City's Annual Report is provided as an attachment to this staff report.
Therefore, it is recommended that the City Council receive and file the General Plan Annual Report for 2024 and authorize staff to forward the report to the Governor's Office of Planning and Research (OPR) and the Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) per Government Code Section 65400.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. General Plan Annual Report for 2024
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CITY OF BLYTHE
CALIFORNIA'S FIRST STRES
Blythe
x
ESTABLTSHED 1916
2024 GENERAL PLAN APR
REPORT
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General Plan
Annual Progress Report
Calendar Year 2024
City of Blythe, California
235 North Broadway, Blythe CA 92225
Governor's Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation (LCI) and California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) Prepared by:
City of Blythe, Development Services Department
Michelle Van Dyke, Permit Technician
(760) 922-6130
[email protected]
Pursuant to Government Code § 65400
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Annual Progress Report - 2024
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. Annual Report Introduction.. 2
II. General Plan Implementation..... 2
III. Streamlining Housing Production ... 5
IV. Effectiveness in Meeting Goals and Objectives 6
V. Plans to Increase Local Housing Availability ..11
City of Blythe 1
Annual Progress Report - 2024
I. Annual Report Introduction
The City of Blythe has prepared and submits this annual progress report (APR) to the Governor's Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation (LCI), and the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD). This report satisfies Government Code Section 65400(a)(2), and reflects the programs and actions undertaken to implement the City's "General Plan 2025" between January 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024. The State of California Government Code Section 65400 requires jurisdictions provide an annual review to their legislative body (in this case City Council), the Governor's Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation (LCI), and California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) on the status of the City's General Plan and progress in implementing the goals, policies and objectives outlined therein. The report highlights completed areas of the General Plan and future priorities and amendments. State law requires that the annual report be completed and submitted to the State by April 1 of each year.
The City of Blythe's General Plan was adopted in 2007 and has been updated periodically as needed or as required by state law. The General Plan contains seven (7) elements, including the fourteen (14) required by the California Government Code and is consistent with the OPR guidelines.
II. General Plan Implementation
The General Plan contains a comprehensive list of different areas of improvement in the city for new residential, commercial and industrial projects. It also provides information on better neighborhood improvement practices to promote during daily life.
Key activities and projects which occurred in 2024 that relate to specific tools within the adopted General Plan are listed below.
• January 2024 repealed & replaced the prior Sign Ordinance with an updated ordinance. • Beautify Blythe Project: 24 bus shelters and amenities across three underserved census tracts; a decorative wall and perimeter solar lighting at the Public Works Yard; a restroom at Transit's CNG Fueling Station; landscaping, parking lot improvements and solar lighting at Miller Park; and an outdoor public space, iron fencing, decorative security fencing and solar lighting at the PVVTA Operations Facility on Main Street. The Beautify Blythe Project included community engagement, clean up events (removal of 120 cubic yards of debris), and ribbon cuttings.
• Chanslor Place subdivision received needed sewer repairs from Public Works for Phase II. • Chuckawalla Valley State Prison closed, which will have an undetermined, yet most likely drastic impact on our community.
• A new water reservoir was replaced at the PV College Project.
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Annual Progress Report - 2024
• Engevik Park has received a new Playground Shade Structure. • Work began for the Hidden Beaches Water System Treatment, Filtration and Storage project.
• The City's Wastewater Treatment Plant received Roof Repairs and was Painted.
Pumping Station #5 Renovation Project.
Organic Waste Program, as per SB 1383, started October 1st Chipotle restaurant constructed a new facility and came to our City for the first time.
Grocery Outlet came to Blythe for the first time (opened in Jan '25). • A new restaurant remodeled an existing, abandoned location and opened Quesa Birria Tacos.
• A businessman remodeled an existing, abandoned location into Anthoney's Automotive. • Water valve replacements were changed out city wide.
Housing Element Reporting and RHNA Requirements
State law requires that the City report on the number of new housing units produced each calendar year and track the progress towards meeting the Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) assigned to the City for the RHNA Reporting Cycle.
Appendix A includes the completed Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) forms which provides status updates regarding Housing Element implementation.
These forms were submitted to HCD through the State's Housing Element Tracking System portal and are only provided in this report as reference. This is the same report Council was presented with at the March 27# Council meeting. I do not know why the yellow highlight is on the first page. The yellow highlight on the last page denotes that the field has more characters than the report requested.
RHNA Progress 2024
RHNA progress is tracked and monitored annually by collecting data on the number of permitted units during the reporting period. From the start of the 6th Cycle in October 2021 to the end of 2024, the City permitted 17 residential units. Of these units, 3 were permitted during the 2024 calendar year. This includes 5 single family homes, of which 3 were new builds and 2 were in-infills (replacement homes); 10 manufactured homes, of which 2 were new installations and 8 were infills; 1 duplex family residential, which was a replacement of a single unit demo; and 1 accessory dwelling unit.
For the 2021-2024 RHNA assignment period, the City was allocated 483 households and are being asked by the state to provide 41 units for extremely low-income households. Table 1 provides the housing need projections, classified by income level, for the City as identified by SCAG through CVAG.
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Annual Progress Report - 2024
Table 1
Blythe Household Need Projection By Income Group
2021 - 2024
Total Units Very Low Income Low Income Moderate Income Above Moderate Income
483 82 71 91 239
Source: 2024 Housing Element APR Report data from HCD
Table 2 provides the 2024 maximum San Bernardino/Riverside County acutely low, extremely low, very low, low/lower, median and moderate household income limits as determined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Although household incomes vary considerably throughout Riverside and San Bernardino Counties, the City is required to use countywide HUD income limits to evaluate housing affordability.
Table 2
2024 San Bernardino/Riverside County Maximum Household Income Limits Income Household Size
Group 1 person 2 person |3 person 4 person 5 person 6 person 7 person 8 person Acutely $10,250 $11,700 $13,200 $14,650 $15,800 $17,000 $18,150 $19,350 Low
Extremely $21,550 $24,600 $27,700 $31,200 $36,580 $41,960 $47,340 $52,720 Low
Very Low $35,900 $41,000 $46,100 $51,250 $55,350 $59,450 $63,550 $67,750 Low/Lower $57,400 $65,600 $73,800 $82,000 $88,600 $95,150 $101,650 $108,250 Median $68,250 $78,000 $87,750 $97,500 $105,300 $113,100 $120,900 $128,700 Moderate $81,900 $93,600 |$105,300 | $117,000 | $126,350 $135,700 $145,100 $154,450 Source: Stradling Yocca Carlson & Rauth 2024 San Bernardino/Riverside County Affordable Housing Worksheet Table 3 shows the City's overall progress towards meeting its share of the projected regional housing needs. The City has added 11 new housing units since 2021.
Table 3
City's Progress In Achieving Its Share Of Projected Regional Housing Needs Income Group Housing Unit Units Added
Affordability Allocation 2021 2022 2023 2024
Very Low 82
Low 71
Moderate 96 4 1
Above Moderate 245 2 4
Total 494 4 2 1 4
Source: Table B of the California Housing Element APR from HUD City of Blythe 4
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Annual Progress Report - 2024
III. Streamlining Housing Production
In 2021, the City applied for and was awarded a $65,000 LEAP grant. This grant provided funding for preparing and adopting the Housing Element of the General Plan and included an element to smooth conformance with the sixth cycle RHNA. It allowed for the development of an accessory dwelling unit ordinance, per the Government Code. Adoption of an appropriately designed ADU Ordinance allows for many new housing opportunities which will assist families with some additional income and help other families who may be in search of housing. The update to the Housing Element will allow for expansion in Planning activities, updating of the Planning procedures, and design suggestions for increased housing production.
Most importantly, it allows for the refurbishment of the General Plan and community and specific plans. This will attract and encourage residential dwelling and multi-family unit construction projects.
At the end of 2022 into the beginning of 2023 the City applied for and was awarded a $40,000 CalAPP Grant through the Energy Commission. This was due to California's new regulation that all jurisdictions must use SolarAPP+ [solar automated permit processing], or another equal platform, to streamline and expedite the permitting process for residential rooftop solar systems, aiming to foster the adoption of clean energy by making it easier for local governments to approve standardized projects quickly and safely.
IV. Effectiveness in Meeting Goals and Objectives
Goal 1 - Attract & Provide Housing to Meet Current & Future Needs Program 1 - Fund 3 Housing Rehabilitation/Preservations Projects & Target 5 Successful Down Payment Assistance Applications
Status - Ongoing
Program 2 - Connect Low & Very-Low-Income Homebuyers with Resources from the Imperial Valley Business Resource Center
Status - Ongoing
Program 3 - Send Notices to Housing Developers Annually Regarding Density Bonuses For Qualifying Applicants
Status - Ongoing
Program 4 - Reuse Sites (No Rezoning Required)
Status- Ongoing
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Annual Progress Report - 2024
Program 5 - Ensure Adequate Sites Are Available
Status - Ongoing
Program 6 - Monitor Blythe's Potable Water-Generating Capacity & the Potable Water Distribution for any Future Required Expansion
Status - Ongoing
Program 7 - Monitor Blythe's Sewer System & Treatment Capacity for any Future Required Expansion
Status - Ongoing
Program 8 - Enforce California Building Code & Encourage Energy-Efficient Construction Techniques Beyond the State Minimum
Status - Ongoing
Program 9 - Provide Information on & Promote Energy-Efficiency Working with SCE, CVAG & IREN.
Status - Ongoing
Program 10 - Work with Riverside County Fair Housing to Support & Enforce Fair Housing Laws and Policies.
Status - Ongoing
Goal 2 Develop housing choices and a variety of affordable, quality housing among extremely low-, very low-, and low-income households, especially among overcrowded households.
Program 11 - Support self-help programs for lower-income (extremely low-, very low-, low-) and special needs households; provide assistance through organizations in the construction of six [6] self-help homes; two nuisance properties will be identified and abated annually for a total of 16 properties during the 2021 to 2029 planning period.
Status - Ongoing
Program 12 - Analyze & update various existing programs for lower-income homebuyers that include Mortgage Credit Certificate Programs, First-Time Home Buyer, and various other existing assistance programs, & facilitate one annual community forum to engage and inform the public of available homebuyer assistance programs.
Status - Ongoing
Program 13 - Identify zoning to encourage & facilitate housing suitable for extremely low, very low-, low-, and moderate-income households & for all special needs households, such as supportive housing and single-room occupancy units.
Status - Ongoing
City of Blythe 6
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Annual Progress Report - 2024
Program 14 - The City shall pursue available & appropriate state and federal funding sources to support efforts to preserve and meet new construction needs of extremely low-, very low, low-, and moderate-income households and for all special needs households & in ar overcrowded situation. The City will apply as a co-applicant with Riverside County for at least one housing funding source per calendar year.
Status - Ongoing
Program 15 - Create marketing material to promote available, vacant sites within the City to low-income and market-rate housing developers.
Status - Ongoing
Program 16 - The City will amend the Zoning Code to:
• Permit manufactured housing in the same manner and in the same zone as a conventional or stick-built structures are permitted pursuant to Government Code 65852.3 and consolidate R/MH and Mobile Home zones.
• Implement Streamlined Ministerial Approval Processes for development that conforms to SB 35 and Government Code §65913.4 requirements. • Modify the City's parking requirements to create separate requirements for detached single-family homes and multi-family developments and create multifamily parking standards based on the number of bedrooms.
• Modify the lot coverage requirements for the R-M and R-H zones. • Revise Conditional Use Permit findings to ensure findings are objective and provide for certainty in outcomes, and to remove the required findings for approving residential uses in nonresidential zones only if dwelling is in character with the existing neighborhood and the adjacent uses are residential. • Establish Project Review Committee (PRC) Process and create findings for approval that are objective and provide certainty in outcomes.
Status - Ongoing
Program 17 - To encourage transparency & facilitate development site selection, the City will post the City's Zoning Map on the City website, as well as additional information, including the Planning and Development fee schedule, Planning applications and forms, and informational handouts that are currently available at the public counter but not on the website.
Status - Ongoing
Program 18 - Update & Revise the City's ADU & JADU Ordinance Status - Ongoing
Program 19 - Meet the various housing & related service needs of lower-income seniors at a local level.
Status - Ongoing
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Annual Progress Report - 2024
Program 20 - Coordinate quarterly with the Palo Verde Valley Transit Agency to ensure that the public transportation needs of seniors and special needs groups have adequate access to needed medical services, shopping, & other amenities from their residences.
Status - Ongoing
Program 21 - Increase participation in the USDA Home Rehabilitation Grant/Loan Program. Assist one very low-income family to secure rehabilitation funds. Preserve 8 very low-income units during the 2021 to 2029 planning period.
Status - Ongoing
Program 22 - Increase the supply of shelter options for the homeless.
Status - Ongoing
Program 23 - The City shall cooperate quarterly with neighboring cities, the County, and other agencies in the development of programs aimed at providing homeless shelters and related services. Participate in the Riverside County Continuum of Care activities: Continue the Homeless Outreach Team (HOT) activities and coordinate with the Regional Access Project (RAP) quarterly community forum.
Status - Ongoing
Program 24 - Meet the housing needs of persons with disabilities.
Status - Ongoing
Program 25 - Revise Zoning Ordinance to reflect State law requirement for residential care facilities of 6 or less & 6 or more persons.
Status - Ongoing
Program 26 - The City will work with the Inland Regional Center to implement an outreach program that informs families within the City on housing & services available for persons with developmental disabilities. Post a hyperlink to the Inland Regional Center on the City website.
Status - Ongoing
Program 27 - The City will amend the Zoning Code to ensure that supportive and transitional housing are treated as residential uses subject only to the same restrictions that apply to other residential dwellings of the same type in the same zone. Specifically, the City will ensure the City's regulations are consistent with AB 2162, which requires certain supportive housing projects of 50 units or fewer to be permitted by right in all zones where multifamily and mixed-use developments are permitted and prohibits parking requirements within ½ mile of public transit. Zoning Code will also be amended to reflect current state law requirements including language for low-barrier navigation centers. Low-barrier navigation centers will be allowed pursuant Government Code §65660. Emergency shelters in the City of Blythe are permitted by right in the I-S and I-G zones, which allow single-family residential uses with a conditional use permit. An analysis of suitability based on parcel size identifies 56 vacant I-S and I-G parcels of less than one acre in size that would be appropriate for small to City of Blythe 8
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Annual Progress Report - 2024
medium size shelter facilities with enough spread to adequately accommodate the City's unsheltered homeless. The City will amend the Zoning Code to address recent changes:
• Expand the definition of emergency shelters per AB 2339 to include interim housing options such as navigation centers, bridge housing, and respite and recuperative care. • Amend Parking standards for emergency shelters to be based solely on staffing level pursuant to AB 139.
Status - Ongoing
Program 28 - The Zoning Ordinance does not currently contain provisions for employee housing. Health and Safety Code §17021.5 (Employee Housing Act) requires jurisdictions to permit employee housing providing accommodations for six or fewer employees to be deemed a residential use subject to the same standards as single family residences. The City will amend the Zoning Ordinance to comply with the Employee Housing Act.
Status - Ongoing
Program 29 - Chapter 17.85 provides a clear process to facilitate the review and approval of requests for reasonable accommodation. Overall, the factors considered for approval are objective; however, "potential impact on surrounding uses" is broad and open to interpretation by the decision maker. The City will amend Chapter 17.85 to remove this factor from consideration when reviewing reasonable accommodations.
Status - Ongoing
Goal 3 Facilitate and promote renovations and replacement housing as necessary to upgrade the City's inventory of substandard and dilapidated houses, mobile homes, motels, apartments, and other seasonal, temporary, or permanent dwelling units.
Program 30 - Upgrade the quality of housing through renovations, remodeling, and/or replacement as needed to reduce the number of substandard and dilapidated houses in the city.
Status - Ongoing
Program 31 - Identify funding mechanisms to use for the purchase and rehabilitation of fixer-up homes by lower-income (extremely low-, very low-, low-) and special needs households (e.g., elderly, homeless, farmworkers, persons with disabilities, female-headed households). Assist one lower income or special needs household annually to secure home rehabilitation funds.
Status - Ongoing
Program 32 - Continue to collaborate with the County of Riverside to secure funds for rehabilitation of lower-income owner-occupied homes. Strive to rehabilitate an average of one (1) lower-income, owner- occupied home annually.
Status - Ongoing
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Annual Progress Report - 2024
Program 33 - Continue code enforcement action on substandard motels and apartments as complaints occur or as routine inspection data is collected. Code enforcement will follow-up with code violation complaints within 72 hours of report of violation.
Status - Ongoing
Program 34 - Monitor affordable units to ensure that their affordability is preserved.
Annually contact property owners, gauge interest and identify nonprofit partners, and pursue funding and preservation strategy on a project basis. The City will work with tenants of at-risk units and provide them with education regarding tenant rights and conversion procedures. The City will also provide tenants living in at-risk projects, with information regarding Section 8 rent subsidies through the Housing Authority and other affordable housing opportunities in the City. Facilitate the creation of two (2) low-income units and forty-five (45) moderate-income units by the end of the 2021-2029 planning period.
Status - Ongoing
Goal 4 Facilitate development that promotes inclusive, diverse communities that provide all income segments of the community access to high resource areas.
Program 35 - Analyze vacant sites and provide zoning conducive to the development of mixed income development in high resource areas.
Status - Ongoing
Program 36 - Review and revise the Land Use Map to identify opportunities for inclusion of low income, medium to high density development in high resource areas, as identified in the AFPH analysis.
Status - Ongoing
Program 37 - Promote communities that reduce greenhouse emissions, create transient- oriented development, and alternate to automobile transportation pathways.
Status - Ongoing
Program 38 - Pursue funding annually for housing developments that incorporate active transportation initiatives; pedestrian pathways, shaded bus stops, and create green spaces that reduce heat islands.
Status - Ongoing
Goal 5 Affirmatively further fair housing.
Program 39 - Meet the various housing and related service needs of community members who are lower income, persons and households with special needs, members of protected classes, and in areas of high segregation and poverty or are identified as special needs communities by State and federal Law (i.e. disadvantaged (SB 535), sensitive communities (SB 50), Racially and Ethnically Concentrated Areas of Poverty (R/ECAPs), etc.).
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Annual Progress Report - 2024
Program 40 - To adequately meet the housing needs of all segments of the community, the City will affirmative further fair housing through strategies that focus on outreach and enforcement, access to opportunities, anti-displacement, place-based strategy for improvement, and new housing in high resource areas.
Status - Ongoing
Program 41 - The City will implement a comprehensive communication strategy (See AFFH Outreach Strategies below) that includes a menu of actions aimed at effectively disseminating information about existing resources and programs to underserved and sensitive communities, ensuring equitable access and awareness of available opportunities.
1. City website
2. Social media
3. Email Newsletter
4. Community Events
5. Doris Morgan Community Center
Status - Ongoing
Program 42 - Anti-Displacement Strategy: The City is committed to preserving housing stability and affordability for residents and providing assistance to businesses so that they can stay and thrive in Blythe.
Status - Ongoing
V. Plans to Increase Local Housing Availability
Residents in Census Tract 461.02 and 462 are at increased risk of displacement as displacement forces (private investments, rising housing costs, limited affordable housing opportunities, closure of Chuckwalla Valley State Prison) disproportionately impact lower income households, minority households, and households already experiencing cost burdens and overcrowding. To ensure existing residents in Census Tracts 461.02 and 462 can remain and benefit as the neighborhood improves the City will:
• Implement Program 1.A.1 (first time homebuyer, down payment assistance, and rehabilitation programs), Program 2.A.1 (Self-Help housing and nuisance property rehabilitation). Program
1.A.2 (pathways to homeownership), and Program 3.A.4 (at-risk unit preservation), included in this Housing Element.
• Create a list of affordable units available citywide and post it on City website and distribute in the different forums such as social media, newsletter, website, community events. • Inform residents of online listing during targeted outreach events. • Include portal in City website for providers to report vacancies. • Provide Housing Authority of the County of Riverside with updates on unit vacancies. • Provide a link to the County's Housing Authority's Affordable Housing Search. • Partner with nonprofits that serve underserved residents within the City to share information on fair housing and tenant rights. The City will create a fair housing informational flyer City of Blythe 11
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Annual Progress Report - 2024
including Fair Housing Rights and resources available to distribute to local non-profits.
Educational flyers will be in English and Spanish.
• Establish procedures to implement SB 330, including replacement requirements. • Collaborate with non-profits to pursue acquisition/rehabilitation of affordable housing beyond those at-risk by providing technical assistance.
In addition, the City will adopt a multi-pronged anti-displacement strategy to work to relieve displacement pressures. The strategy will include measures that encourage affordable housing production, work to preserve existing affordable housing, and protect current residents from displacement in rapidly changing portions of the city, particularly in Census Tracts 461.02 and 462, where displacement risks are higher. The anti-displacement strategy may various components, such as, but is not limited to, the following potential efforts:
• Production: increase multifamily residential opportunities throughout the city beyond capacity to meet the RHNA; allow duplexes, triplexes, and multiple JADUs in lower density high resource areas. prioritizing areas at risk of displacement for gap financing resources (such as LIHTC); tax abatements for new multifamily housing projects with affordable housing units; Support capacity building for community development organizations. • Preservation: Create partnerships with the Housing Authority to support acquisition of affordable units at-risk of conversion to market rate; identify a code enforcement specialist on staff to provide technical assistance and information to property owners of lower income units to address code enforcement issues; seek funding to support rehabilitation of substandard multifamily units; restrict conversion of existing units occupied by lower-income households to short term rentals; require replacement of all lower income units lost due to redevelopment. • Protect Current Residents: Develop an engagement strategy and work with a fair housing service provider to disseminate information on tenant protections (especially source of income, and State rent stabilization and just cause eviction regulations) and available resources; Incorporate tenant protections for all rental properties receiving city support/funds; Provide tenant relocation assistance and emergency rental assistance.
In developing the Strategy, the City shall discuss issues, opportunities, and potential anti- displacement measures with the public through events targeting the Census Tracts 461.02 and 462. Outreach will take into account the high rates of linguistic isolation in these areas and provide materials in Spanish.
City of Blythe 12
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CURE TIT BEE CITY OF BLYTHE
Blythe CITY COUNCIL MEETING
STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: May 13, 2025
SUBJECT: Authorize Acceptance of Work - 2024 Beautify Blythe Project- Package III - Public Works Yard
PRESENTED BY: Mallory Crecelius, Interim City Manager
PREPARED BY: Mallory Crecelius, Interim City Manager
RECOMMENDATION: Council authorize the Interim City Manager to accept the work performed by James Burrow DBA Burrow Construction for the project known as the 2024 Beautify Blythe Project - Package III - Public Works Yard, once completed to the satisfaction of Public Works and Building Department staff, authorize the Interim City Manager to execute the Notice of Completion upon such acceptance, authorize the City Clerk to file the Notice of Completion and authorize staff to release project bonds once appropriate.
FISCAL IMPACT: None
BACKGROUND: The City entered into an agreement with James Burrow DBA Burrow Construction dated May 22, 2024 for construction of a new restroom facility (for the Transit CNG Station), installation of a new masonry unit (CMU) block wall, modifications of fences and gates, and removal and modification of specified curb, gutter and sidewalk at the City of Blythe Public Works Yard. This project was one of four construction agreements entered into as part of the City's 2024 Beautify Blythe Project.
Beautify Blythe is a $2.9 million grant award from Caltrans' Local Clean California grant program to beautify public spaces. The City partnered with the Palo Verde Valley Transit Agency to clean up and beautify various public spaces and facilities.
STAFF REPORT: The 2024 Beautify Blythe Project - Package III - Public Works Yard Project is 99% complete. As the grant period is winding down, staff is seeking authority to accept the work on this project, once it is completed to the satisfaction of Public Works and the Chief Building Official. The project will be completed within the approved project budget of $582,102. One change order in the amount of $13,868 was approved during the project to supply and install anti-graffiti coating on the 9,600 square foot block wall.
Therefore, it is recommended Council authorize the Interim City Manager to accept the work performed by James Burrow DBA Burrow Construction for the project known as the 2024 Beautify Blythe Project - Package III - Public Works Yard, once completed to the satisfaction of Public Works and Building Department staff, authorize the Interim City Manager to execute the Notice of Completion upon such acceptance, authorize the City Clerk to file the Notice of Completion and authorize staff to release project bonds once appropriate.
ATTACHMENTS: None
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CITY OF BLYTHE
Blythe CITY COUNCIL MEETING
STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: May 13, 2025
SUBJECT: Annual Rate Adjustment Under Solid Waste Frachise Agreement PRESENTED BY: Christa Elms, Director of Finance
PREPARED BY: Christa Elms, Director of Finance
RECOMMENDATION: Approve the annual rate adjustment pursuant to Section 22.7 of the Solid Waste Franchise Agreement between the City of Blythe and CR&R Incorporated ("CR&R") for exclusive solid waste handling services.
FISCAL IMPACT: An increase to customers of 3.30% for the solid waste service component and 2.88% increase in the landfill component.
BACKGROUND: On February 1, 2015, the City of Blythe and CR&R entered into a Second Amendment and Restatement of the Solid Waste Franchise Agreement ("Agreement") for exclusive solid waste handling services. On or about November 12, 2019, the City and CR&R entered into Amendment Number One to the Agreement to add alley clean up services to the scope of services. On September 10, 2024, the City Council approved Amendment Number Two to the Agreement implementing regulatory requirements for SB 1383 organic waste collection at which time the City conducted a public hearing regarding proposed new organic rates to recover costs of providing the services and annual rate adjustments for all services provided for in Section 22.7 of the Agreement.
STAFF REPORT: The City contracts with CR&R to provide solid waste collection and disposal services to the residence and businesses within the City of Blythe pursuant to an exclusive franchise agreement. Under the Agreement, the City regulates the services that CR&R provides and the rates that CR&R can charge for those services. Section 22.7.1 of the Agreement provides for annual rate adjustments to service rates commencing July 1, 2015, and on each July 1st thereafter. Requests for rate adjustments must be submitted by CR&R to the City Manager or designee and further approved by City Council before commencement on July 1s of each year.
The methodology to be used by CR&R is set forth in section 22.7.2 of the Agreement. In summary, the service component comprises eighty percent (80%) of the rate and will be adjusted annually based on the change in the Consumer Price Index (CPI). The other twenty percent (20%) of such charges is for the landfill fees and will be adjusted annually based on the greater of the change in the CPI or the percent change in the per ton tipping fees charged by Riverside County for disposing of solid waste at its landfill. All other charges will be adjusted annually based on the change in the CPI.
The City received CR&R's request for annual rate adjustment and schedule of new rates on March 11, 2025. The service component has increased by 3.30% and landfill fees by 2.88%. -6
The rates have been reviewed for accuracy. Staff recommends the City Council approve the attached revision to Exhibit A of the Solid Waste Franchise Agreement between the City of Blythe and CR&R providing new rates effective July 15, 2025.
ATTACHMENTS:
A. CR&R Sanitation and Landfill Rates for FY 2025-2026 (Exhibit A) -7
ATTACHMENT A
Exhibit A
City of Blythe - Rate Schedule
Rates Effective 7/1/2025
Monthly
Service Rate
Standard Residential Service (1-90g trash, 1-90g Recy, 1-64g Organics) $28.98 Residential Organics Fee $13.06
Total Standard Residential Rate $42.04
Additional 90 gal- trash $11.53
Additional 90 gal- recycling $2.75
Additional 64 gal- organics $6.20
Commercial Cart Service
Commercial 90 gallon set $106.99
Additional 90 gal commercial carts $35.41
Commercial Recycle 90 gallon (with bin service) $71.16
Commercial 2 cubic yard bin
Ix week $142.51
2 x week $285.40
Commercial 3 cubic yard bin
Ix week $214.02
2x week $358.46
3x week $502.80
4 x week $647.24
5 x week $791.62
6 x week $936.04
Commercial 4 cubic yard bin
Ix week $285.40
2 x week $477.85
3 x week $670.40
4 x week $862,88
5 x week $1,055.39
6 x week $1,247.88
Commercial 6 cubic yard bin
1 x week $333.15
2x week $654.68
3 x week $887.51
4x week $1,101.56
5 x week $1,305.32
6 x week $1,509.07
Commercial 3 cubic yard recycling bin
1x week $144.02
2 x week $245.13
3 x week $351.22
4 x week $431.14
5x week $544.35
6x week $657.55
-7
ATTACHMENT A
Exhibit A
City of Blythe - Rate Schedule
Rates Effective 7/1/2025
Additional Residential Services
Additional Cart Exchange (Over. one per year) $22.36
Additional Cart Replacement (Over one per year) $22.36
Residential Bulky Item Fee (Over four per Calendar year) $32.12 Residential New Account Set-Up Fee $34.93
Residential Mail-In Sharps Kit $139.61
Residential Compact Florescent Bulb Kit $78.22
Three Cubic Yard Clean Up Bin (Includes one service) $73.82 Additional Dump on Two Cubic Yard Bin $73.82
Four Cubic Yard Clean Up Bin (Includes one service) $98.40 Additional Dump on Three Cubic Yard Bin $98.40
Residential Bin Relocation Fee $69.82
Residential Delinquent Account Cart Removal $69.82
Residentíal Delinquent Account Cart Re-Instatement $69.82 CFC Removal $62.86
Burned Cart Replacement Fee (Residential or Commercial) $90.80 Green waste Drop-Off (Landscapers/Business Only) $20,95 Other Associated Work $104.76
-7
CITY OF BLYTHE
Blythe CITY COUNCIL MEETING
STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: May 13, 2025
SUBJECT: Annual Assessment for Lighting District Nos. 1 and 2 for Fiscal Year 2025-2026
PRESENTED BY: Christa Elms, Director of Finance
PREPARED BY: Christa Elms, Director of Finance
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council adopt the following Resolutions:
Resolution 2025-004 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, ORDERING THE PREPARATION AND
FILING OF A REPORT REGARDING THE FISCAL YEAR 2025-
2026 ASSESSMENT TO BE LEVIED WITHIN THE CITY OF
BLYTHE LIGHTING DISTRICT NO. 1
Resolution 2025-005 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, PRELIMINARILY APPROVING THE
ENGINEER'S REPORT FOR CITY OF BLYTHE LIGHTING
DISTRICT NO. 1, DECLARING ITS INTENTION TO LEVY AND
COLLECT ASSESSMENTS WITHIN SAID DISTRICT FOR
FISCAL YEAR 2025-2026 AND SETTING A PUBLIC HEARING
REGARDING SUCH ASSESSMENTS
Resolution 2025-006 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, ORDERING THE PREPARATION AND
FILING OF A REPORT REGARDING THE FISCAL YEAR 2025-
2026 ASSESSMENT TO BE LEVIED WITHIN THE CITY OF
BLYTHE LIGHTING DISTRICT NO. 2
Resolution 2025-007 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, PRELIMINARILY APPROVING THE
ENGINEER'S REPORT FOR CITY OF BLYTHE LIGHTING
DISTRICT NO. 2, DECLARING ITS INTENTION TO LEVY AND
COLLECT ASSESSMENTS WITHIN SAID DISTRICT FOR
FISCAL YEAR 2025-2026 AND SETTING A PUBLIC HEARING
REGARDING SUCH ASSESSMENTS
FISCAL IMPACT: The 2025-2026 combined annual projected assessment for Lighting and Landscape District Nos. 1 and 2 is $188,350.
BACKGROUND: The Landscaping and Lighting Act of 1972, Part 2 of Division 15 of the California Streets and Highways Code, requires the City Council to conduct annual proceedings -7
in order to levy annual assessments within assessment districts formed under the Act. Willdan Financial Services has prepared an engineer's report for both Lighting District Nos. 1 and 2 for fiscal year 2025-2026.
STAFF REPORT:
Lighting District No. 1: Resolution No. 2025-004 orders the preparation and filing of the Engineer's Report for Lighting District No. 1. Resolution No. 2025-005 requests that Council preliminarily approve the attached Engineer's Report, further declare its intention to levy the annual assessment for Lighting District No. 1, and setting June 10, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. as the date and time for hearing protests to the levy of the annual assessment.
Lighting District No. 2: Resolution No. 2025-006 orders the preparation and filing of the Engineer's Report for Lighting District No. 2. Resolution No. 2025-007 requests that Council preliminarily approve the attached Engineer's Report, further declare its intention to levy the annual assessment for Lighting District No. 2, and setting June 10, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. as the date and time for hearing protests to the levy of the annual assessment.
ATTACHMENTS:
A. Resolution 2025-004
B. Resolution 2025-005
C. Resolution 2025-006
D. Resolution 2025-007
E. 2025-2026 Engineer's Annual Levy Report Lighting District No. 1 F. 2025-2026 Engineer's Annual Levy Report Lighting District No. 2 - 7
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-004
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF BLYTHE, ORDERING THE
PREPARATION AND FILING OF A REPORT REGARDING
THE FISCAL YEAR 2025-2026 ASSESSMENT TO BE
LEVIED WITHIN THE CITY OF BLYTHE LIGHTING
DISTRICT NO. 1
WHEREAS, the City of Blythe Lighting District No. 1 (the "District") has been WHEREAS, in connection with the District, the City annually levies an assessment against real property; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to initiate proceedings to levy the assessment for Fiscal Year 2025-2026 in connection with the District; and WHEREAS, no increased assessments, new improvements nor substantial changes in existing improvements within the District are proposed.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE,
CALIFORNIA HEREBY FINDS, DETERMINES, RESOLVES AND ORDERS AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The above recitals are true and correct.
SECTION 2. The City Council orders Willdan Financial Services, as assessment engineer, to prepare and file with the City Clerk a report on the assessment in connection with the District for Fiscal Year 2025-2026. Such report shall include all information required by Section 22565 et seq. of the Act.
PASSED, APPROVED, and ADOPTED this 13th day of May 2025, by the following AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Joseph DeConinck, Mayor
ATTEST:
Mallory Crecelius, City Clerk
(SEAL)
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-005
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, PRELIMINARILY
APPROVING THE ENGINEER'S REPORT FOR CITY OF
BLYTHE LIGHTING DISTRICT NO. 1, DECLARING ITS
INTENTION TO LEVY AND COLLECT ASSESSMENTS
WITHIN SAID DISTRICT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2025-2026
AND SETTING A PUBLIC HEARING REGARDING SUCH
ASSESSMENTS
WHEREAS, the City of Blythe Lighting District No. 1 (the "District") has been established pursuant to the Landscaping and Lighting Act of 1972 (Streets and Highways Code Section 22500 et seq.) (the "Act") to fund the maintenance and servicing of certain public landscaping, the operation and maintenance of streetlights and traffic signals, and the maintenance of appurtenant facilities in the City; and
WHEREAS, in connection with the District, the City annually levies an assessment against real property; and
WHEREAS, by Resolution No. 2025-004, adopted May 13, 2025, the City Council directed Willdan Financial Services, as assessment engineer (the "Engineer"), to prepare and file a report regarding the District; and
WHEREAS, the Engineer has filed said report, entitled "City of Blythe, Lighting District No. 1, 2025-2026 Engineer's Annual Levy Report" (the "Report") and the Report is on file and available for public inspection in the Office of the City Clerk and is incorporated herein by reference; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to continue with proceedings to levy the assessment in connection with the District for Fiscal Year 2025-2026 as described in the Report.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE,
CALIFORNIA HEREBY FINDS, DETERMINES, RESOLVES AND ORDERS AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The Engineer's Report is preliminarily approved SECTION 2. The City Council declares its intention to levy and collect assessments within the District for Fiscal Year 2025-2026 and notes that:
(a) The distinctive name of the District is the "City of Blythe Lighting District No. 1." (b) The District is generally located within the entire City of Blythe, excluding the City of Blythe's sewage treatment plant, the Chuckawalla and Ironwood Prison property (City of Blythe Annexation No. 41), and territory annexed to the City of Blythe pursuant to City of Blythe Annexation Nos. 43, 44, 45, 46 and 50, as shown on a map of the District on file in the office of the City Clerk and open to public inspection.
(c) The existing and proposed improvements are briefly described as follows: The operation and maintenance of public streets and sidewalks within the District, including the operation, maintenance and servicing of existing and proposed public lighting facilities, landscaping and appurtenant facilities. Maintenance means the furnishing of services and materials for the ordinary and usual maintenance, operation and servicing of the landscaping, public lighting facilities, and appurtenant facilities. Servicing means the furnishing of water for the irrigation of the landscaping and the maintenance of any of the public lighting facilities or appurtenant facilities and the furnishing of electric current or energy, gas or other illuminating agent for the public lighting facilities or for the lighting or operation of landscaping or appurtenant facilities.
(d) Reference is hereby made to the Engineer's Report, on file in the office of the City Clerk, for a full and detailed description of the improvements, the boundaries of the District and any zones therein, and the proposed assessments upon assessable lots and parcels of land within the District.
(e) The assessments to be levied and collected against the assessable lots and parcels of property within the District for Fiscal Year 2025-2026 are not proposed to increase from the assessments levied and collected for Fiscal Year 2024-2025.
SECTION 3. Lots or parcels of land within the District that are owned or used by any county, city, city and county, special district or any other local governmental entity, the State of California, or the United States shall be assessed unless the entity demonstrates by clear and convincing evidence that such lots or parcels receive no special benefit from the proposed improvements.
SECTION 4. All railroad, gas, water and electric utility right-of-way or electric line right- of-way are included within the District and shall be assessed in accordance with the benefits to be received from the improvements.
SECTION 5. A public hearing is set for Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers located at 235 North Broadway, Blythe, California, 92225, to take the testimony on the issue of whether or not the assessments should be approved.
All interested persons shall be afforded the opportunity to hear and be heard. Any interested person may file a written protest with the City Clerk, or, having previously filed a protest, may file a written withdrawal of that protest, prior to the conclusion of the hearing. A written protest shall state all grounds of objection. A protest by a property owner shall contain a description sufficient to identify the property owned by the signer thereof. The City Council shall consider all oral statements and all written protests made or filed by any interested person. -7
SECTION 6. The City Clerk shall give notice of said public hearing in the time, form, and manner as required by law, including but not limited to publication of this resolution in accordance with Streets and Highways Code Sections 22552 and 22553.
SECTION 7. The City Council finds that the levy and collection of these assessments is statutorily exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act under § 15273 of the Guidelines, as none of the proceeds will be used for capital expenses, but will be used instead for operation and maintenance.
SECTION 8. The City Council hereby designates Christa Elms, Director of Finance, City of Blythe, 235 North Broadway, Blythe, California 92225, (760) 922-6161 EXT #1230 to answer inquiries regarding the hearing, protest proceedings, and procedural or technical matters.
PASSED, APPROVED, and ADOPTED this 13th day of May 2025, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Joseph DeConinck, Mayor
ATTEST:
Mallory Crecelius, City Clerk
(SEAL)
-7
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-006
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
BLYTHE, ORDERING THE J
PREPARATION AND FILING OF A REPORT REGARDING
THE FISCAL YEAR 2025-2026 ASSESSMENT TO BE
LEVIED WITHIN THE CITY OF BLYTHE LIGHTING
DISTRICT NO. 2
WHEREAS, the City of Blythe Lighting District No. 2 (the "District") has been WHEREAS, in connection with the District, the City annually levies an assessment against real property; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to initiate proceedings to levy the assessment for Fiscal Year 2025-2026 in connection with the District; and WHEREAS, no increased assessments, new improvements nor substantial changes in existing improvements within the District are proposed.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE,
CALIFORNIA HEREBY FINDS, DETERMINES, RESOLVES AND ORDERS AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The above recitals are true and correct.
SECTION 2. The City Council orders Willdan Financial Services, as assessment engineer, to prepare and file with the City Clerk a report on the assessment in connection with the District for Fiscal Year 2025-2026. Such report shall include all information required by Section 22565 et seq. of the Act.
PASSED, APPROVED, and ADOPTED this 13th day of May 2025, by the following AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
-8
Joseph DeConinck, Mayor
ATTEST:
Mallory Crecelius, City Clerk
(SEAL)
-8
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-007
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, PRELIMINARILY
APPROVING THE ENGINEER'S REPORT FOR CITY OF
BLYTHE LIGHTING DISTRICT NO. 2, DECLARING ITS
INTENTION TO LEVY AND COLLECT ASSESSMENTS
WITHIN SAID DISTRICT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2025-2026
AND SETTING A PUBLIC HEARING REGARDING SUCH
ASSESSMENTS
WHEREAS, the City of Blythe Lighting District No. 2 (the "District) has been established pursuant to the Landscaping and Lighting Act of 1972 (Streets and Highways Code Section 22500 et seq.) (the "Act") to fund the maintenance and servicing of certain public landscaping, the operation and maintenance of streetlights and traffic signals, and the maintenance of appurtenant facilities in the City; and
WHEREAS, in connection with the District, the City annually levies an assessment against real property; and
WHEREAS, by Resolution No. 2025-006, adopted May 13, 2025, the City Council directed Willdan Financial Services, as assessment engineer (the "Engineer"), to prepare and file a report regarding the District; and
WHEREAS, the Engineer has filed said report, entitled "City of Blythe, Lighting District No. 2, 2025-2026 Engineer's Annual Levy Report" (the "Report") and the Report is on file and available for public inspection in the Office of the City Clerk and is incorporated herein by reference; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to continue with proceedings to levy the assessment in connection with the District for Fiscal Year 2025-2026 as described in the Report.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE,
CALIFORNIA HEREBY FINDS, DETERMINES, RESOLVES AND ORDERS AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The Engineer's Report is preliminarily approved.
SECTION 2. The City Council declares its intention to levy and collect assessments within the District for Fiscal Year 2025-2026 and notes that:
(a) The distinctive name of the District is the "City of Blythe Lighting District No. 2." (b) The District is generally located within the City of Blythe, including territory -8
(c) The existing and proposed improvements are briefly described as follows: The operation and maintenance of public streets and sidewalks within the District, including the operation, maintenance and servicing of existing and proposed public lighting facilities, landscaping, and appurtenant facilities. Maintenance means the furnishing of services and materials for the ordinary and usual maintenance, operation and servicing of the landscaping, public lighting facilities, and appurtenant facilities. Servicing means the furnishing of water for the irrigation of the landscaping and the maintenance of any of the public lighting facilities or appurtenant facilities and the furnishing of electric current or energy, gas or other illuminating agent for the public lighting facilities or for the lighting or operation of landscaping or appurtenant facilities.
(d) Reference is hereby made to the Engineer's Report, on file in the office of the City Clerk, for a full and detailed description of the improvements, the boundaries of the District and any zones therein, and the proposed assessments upon assessable lots and parcels of land within the District.
(e) The assessments to be levied and collected against the assessable lots and parcels of property within the District for Fiscal Year 2025-2026 are not proposed to increase from the assessments levied and collected for Fiscal Year 2024-2025.
SECTION 3. Lots or parcels of land within the District that are owned or used by any county, city, city and county, special district or any other local governmental entity, the state of California, or the United States shall be assessed unless the entity demonstrates by clear and convincing evidence that such lots or parcels receive no special benefit from the proposed improvements.
SECTION 4. All railroad, gas, water and electric utility right-of-way or electric line right- of-way are included within the District and shall be assessed in accordance with the benefits to be received from the improvements.
SECTION 5. A public hearing is set for Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers located at 235 North Broadway, Blythe, California, 92225, to take the testimony on the issue of whether or not the assessments should be approved.
All interested persons shall be afforded the opportunity to hear and be heard. Any interested person may file a written protest with the City Clerk, or, having previously filed a protest, may file a written withdrawal of that protest, prior to the conclusion of the hearing. A written protest shall state all grounds of objection. A protest by a property owner shall contain a description sufficient to identify the property owned by the signer thereof. The City Council shall consider all oral statements and all written protests made or filed by any interested person.
SECTION 6. The City Clerk shall give notice of said public hearing in the time, form, and manner as required by law, including but not limited to publication of this resolution in accordance with Streets and Highways Code Sections 22552 and 22553.
SECTION 7. The City Council finds that the levy and collection of these assessments is statutorily exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act under § 15273 of the Guidelines, -8
as none of the proceeds will be used for capital expenses but will be used instead for operation and maintenance.
SECTION 8. The City Council hereby designates Christa Elms, Director of Finance, City of Blythe, 235 North Broadway, Blythe, California 92225, (760) 922-6161 EXT #1230 to answer inquiries regarding the hearing, protest proceedings, and procedural or technical matters.
PASSED, APPROVED, and ADOPTED this 13th day of May 2025, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Joseph DeConinck, Mayor
ATTEST:
Mallory Crecelius, City Clerk
(SE AL)
-8
ATTACHMENT E
THE CITY OF 1:
Blythe PRELIMINARY DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION PURPOSE ONLY
CALIFORNIA
FIRST SUNRISE IN CALIFORNIA
City of Blythe
Lighting District No. 1
2025/2026 ENGINEER'S ANNUAL LEVY REPORT
Intent Meeting: May 13, 2025
Public Hearing: June 10, 2025
8 27368 Via Industria, Suite 200
Temecula, California 92590
T. 951.587.3500 800.755.6864
F. 951.587.3510 888.326.6864
www.willdan.com
W WILLDAN
- 8
ATTACHMENT E
ENGINEER'S REPORT AFFIDAVIT
Lighting District No. 1
City of Blythe
Riverside County, State of California
This Report describes the District and relevant zones therein including the improvements, of parcels within the District. The undersigned respectfully submits the enclosed Report Dated this day of - 2025.
Willdan Financial Services
Assessment Engineer
On Behalf of the City of Blythe
By:
Stacee Reynolds, Principal Consultant
District Administration Services
By: _
Tyrone Peter
PE # C 81888
- 8
ATTACHMENT E
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. OVERVIEW 1
A. INTRODUCTION
B. HISTORICAL BACKGROUND AND CURRENT LEGISLATION 1
C. IMPROVEMENTS AUTHORIZED BY THE 1972 ACT 2
II. BOUNDARIES OF THE DISTRICT 3
III. IMPROVEMENTS 3
A. LANDSCAPING AND ORNAMENTAL STRUCTURES 3
STREET LIGHTS 4
C. PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS 4
IV. METHOD OF APPORTIONMENT 5
A. ZONES
B. ASSESSMENT FORMULA
C. SUMMARY OF ASSESSMENTS
V. DISTRICT BUDGET 11
VI. ASSESSMENT ROLLS 15
-8
ATTACHMENT E
W. WILLDAN
I. OVERVIEW
A. INTRODUCTION
Pursuant to the order of the City Council of the City of Blythe, this report is prepared in Act of 1972, Pantz of Division 15 of Ae See 6 and Highways cade of the aleng This report presents the engineering analysis for Fiscal Year 2025/2026 for the District known as: City of Blythe Lighting District No. 1 (Hereinafter referred to as "District").
The District, by special benefit assessments, provide funding for the maintenance of landscaped areas owned by the City of Blythe, for the operation of streetlights owned and maintained by Southern California Edison Company, for the operation and maintenance of traffic signals and for the operation and maintenance of appurtenant facilities; all of which are located in and along public roadways, streets and rights-of ways in the City of Blythe.
B. HISTORICAL BACKGROUND AND CURRENT LEGISLATION
Section 22573 of the Landscaping and Lighting Act of 1972 (the "1972 Act") requires assessments to be levied according to benefit rather than according to assessed value.
The section states:
"The net amount to be assessed upon lands within an assessment district may be apportioned by any formula or method which fairly distributes the net amount among all assessable lots or parcels in proportion to the estimated benefits to be received by each such lot or parcel from the improvements.
The determination of whether or not a lot or parcel will benefit from the improvements shall be made pursuant to the Improvement Act of 1911 (Division of Colomicing with Section 5000)) of the Streets and Highways Code, State The 1972 Act also provides for the classification of various areas within an assessment district into different zones were,
"by reason of variations in the nature, location and extent of the improvements, the various areas will receive differing degrees of benefit from the improvements. A zone shall consist of all territory which will receive substantially the same degree of benefit from the improvements."
An assessment district may consist of contiguous or non-contiguous areas. As the 2025/2026 Lighting District No. 1 Page 1
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ATTACHMENT E
W WILLDAN
assessments are levied on the basis of benefit, they are considered a special benefit assessment, not a tax, and therefore, are not governed by Article XIIIA of the California Constitution. Properties owned by public agencies, such as a city, county, state or the federal government must be assessed by law unless it can be demonstrated that they receive no special benefit.
C. IMPROVEMENTS AUTHORIZED BY THE 1972 ACT
As applicable or may be applicable to the District, the 1972 Act defines improvements to mean one or any combination of the following:
• The installation or planting of landscaping.
• The installation or construction of statuary, fountains, and other ornamental structures and facilities.
• The installation or construction of public lighting facilities. • The installation or construction of any facilities which are appurtenant to any of the foregoing or which are necessary or convenient for the maintenance or servicing thereof, , including, but not limited to, grading, clearing, removal of debris, the installation or construction of curbs, gutters, walls, sidewalks, or paving, or water, irrigation, drainage, or electrical facilities. • The maintenance or servicing, or both, of any of the foregoing. • The acquisition of any existing improvement otherwise authorized pursuant to this section.
Incidental expenses associated with the improvements including, but not limited to:
• The cost of preparation of the report, including plans, specifications, estimates, diagram, and assessment;
• The costs of printing, advertising, and the publishing, posting and mailing of notices;
• Compensation payable to the County for collection of assessments; • Compensation of any engineer or attorney employed to render services; • Any other expenses incidental to the construction, installation, or maintenance and servicing of the improvements;
• Any expenses incidental to the issuance of bonds or notes pursuant to Section 22662.5
• Costs associated with any elections held for the approval of a new or increased assessment.
2025/2026 Lighting District No. 1 Page 2
-8:
ATTACHMENT E
W WILLDAN
The 1972 Act defines "Maintain" or "maintenance" to mean furnishing of services and materials for the ordinary and usual maintenance, operation, and servicing of any improvement, including:
• Repair, removal, or replacement of all or any part of any improvement. • Providing for the life, growth, health, and beauty of landscaping, including cultivation, irrigation, trimming, spraying, fertilizing, or treating for disease or injury.
• The removal of trimmings, rubbish, debris, and other solid waste. • The cleaning, sandblasting, and painting of walls and other improvements to remove or cover graffiti.
II. BOUNDARIES OF THE DISTRICT
The existing boundary of the District are completely within the City limits of the City of Blythe and is shown on the Boundary Map (on file in the office of the City Clerk at the Blythe City Hall as Exhibit "A" and incorporated herein by reference). The boundary excludes the City's sewage treatment plant and the Chuckwalla/Ironwood Prison property, which are non- contiguous to the remainder of the City. All parcels of real property included within the District are described in detail on maps on file in the Riverside County Assessor's office for Fiscal Year 2025/2026. New development projects within the boundary of the District have been, and will continue to be, annexed into Lighting District No. 2 (LD2) since LD2 was formed in 1997. When such an annexation into LD2 is approved, the lots and parcels of land within the annexation are removed from, and become "not a part" of, the District.
III. IMPROVEMENTS
The facilities and items of servicing and maintenance included within the District are as follows:
A. LANDSCAPING AND ORNAMENTAL STRUCTURES
A map showing the location of all landscaping zones within the District, are on file in the office of the City Clerk at the Blythe City Hall as Exhibit "B". There are six areas in which landscaping, ornamental structures and appurtenant facilities will be maintained and serviced during Fiscal Year 2025/2026; designated as Zones C through H, respectively.
Servicing means the furnishing of water for the irrigation of any landscaping, the operation of any fountains, or the maintenance of any other improvements.
Maintenance means the furnishing of services and materials for the ordinary and usual 2025/2026 Lighting District No. 1 Page 3
-9
ATTACHMENT E
W WILLDAN
maintenance, operation and servicing of any improvement, including but not limited to:
1. Repair, removal or replacement of all or any part of any improvement.
2. Privation origin, timi, prating de being of eating or sen spraying, tertilizing, or treating tor disease or
3. The removal of trimmings, rubbish, debris and other solid waste.
4. The cleaning, sandblasting and painting of walls and other improvements to remove or cover graffiti.
B. STREET LIGHTS
A map showing the location of all streetlights to be maintained and serviced by the District are on file in the office of the City Clerk at the Blythe City Hall as Exhibit "C".
There are currently seven traffic signals operating with the City.
Servicing means the furnishing of electric current or energy, gas or other illuminating agent for public street lighting and appurtenant facilities, including traffic signals.
Maintenance means the furnishing of services and materials for the ordinary and usual maintenance, operation and servicing of any improvement, including repair, removal, or replacement of all or any part of a component of the street lighting system, including traffic signals and the cleaning, sandblasting and painting of walls and other improvements to remove or cover graffiti.
C. PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS
The plans and specifications showing and describing the general nature, location and extent of the improvements are on file in the office of the City Clerk and are incorporated herein by reference.
2025/2026 Lighting District No. 1 Page 4
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ATTACHMENT E
W WILLDAN
IV. METHOD OF APPORTIONMENT
The net amount to be assessed upon lands within the District in accordance with this report is apportioned by a formula and method which fairly distributes the amount among the assessable lots or parcels in proportion to the estimated benefits to be received by each lot or parcel from the improvements, namely the maintenance and servicing of public landscaping, ornamental structures, lighting and appurtenant facilities within the District.
The maintenance and servicing of public landscaping, ornamental structures, lighting and appurtenant facilities installed and constructed in and along public roadways, streets and rights-of-way in the City of Blythe provides a special benefit which is received by each and every lot or parcel within the specified zones of benefit in the District, tending to enhance their value. Landscaping within the District enhances the aesthetic appeal of parcels within the landscaping zones. In addition, landscaping and ornamental structures improve erosion resistance and dust control. The streets within the District provide access to the lots or parcels assessed. Streetlights improve ingress and egress from such lots or parcels by illuminating access after sunset. Such streetlights, by so improving ingress and egress, improve the security of such lots or parcels by improving the nighttime visibility of such lots or parcels and improve the access of emergency vehicles thereto and in the case of commercial lots or parcels, facilitate the opening and operation of business uses after sunset.
The primary benefits of landscaping are as set forth below:
1. Improved aesthetic appeal of nearby parcels.
2. Improved erosion resistance.
3. Improved dust control.
4. Enhancement of the value of property which results from the foregoing benefits.
The primary benefits of street lighting, including traffic signals, are convenience, safety, security and protection of property, property improvements and goods as set forth below:
1. Improvement to traffic circulation and reduction in nighttime accidents and attendant human misery and decrease in personal property loss.
2. Less vulnerability to criminal assault at night.
3. Promotion of business during nighttime hours.
4. Improved ingress and egress to lots and parcels.
5. Reduction in vandalism and other criminal acts resulting in damage to improvements.
6. Enhancement of the value of property which results from the foregoing benefits. 2025/2026 Lighting District No. 1 Page 5
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ATTACHMENT E
W WILLDAN
A. ZONES
The 1972 Act provides for areas within a district to be classified into different zones.
Lighting District No.1 is divided into eight (8) benefit zones. These zones are labeled A through H, inclusive. The zones and the number of parcels within each zone are described as follows;
Zone A - All parcels receiving street lighting benefits, including exempt parcels which are not assessed, within the District except for Zone B parcels.
Zone B - Zone B is comprised of the following areas that remain largely undeveloped and in which there are no streetlights in public rights-of-way, or which have streetlights whose maintenance and operation is funded by assessments in Lighting District No. 2:
1. The area generally bounded by Hobsonway on the north, the east-west property line immediately south to and adjacent to 1-10 on the south, De Frain Boulevard on the west, and on the east by various property lines lying between Carlton Street and the southerly prolongation of Ehlers Boulevard.
2. The area is generally south of Hobsonway and east of the southerly prolongation of Agate Drive.
3. A portion of City of Blythe Annexation No. 37.
4. A portion of City of Blythe Annexation No. 40.
5. City of Blythe Annexation Nos. 29, 35, 44, 45, and 46 except for that area within Annexation No. 45 that is generally south of l0th Avenue and east of Lovekin Boulevard that has streetlights installed by the City of Blythe; said area being more specifically identified by the following Assessor Parcel Numbers:
839-021-002 through 839-021-004 inclusive; 839-021-006 through 839- 021-015 inclusive; 839-021-018; 839-021-025; 839-022-002; 839-023-001 through 839-023-004 inclusive; 839-024-001; 839-032-001 through 839- 032-007 inclusive; 839-033-001 through 839-033-013 inclusive; 839-033- 016; 839-033-017; 839-033-019; 839-033-020; 839-033-026; and 839-034- 001 through 839-034-003 inclusive.
Zone C - Zone C is comprised of the following parcels within the River Valley tract that have received a condition of tract map approval requiring the installation of landscaping in the public right-of-way. Those parcels designated by APN's 854- 121-008 through 854-121-021 excluding 854-121-015; 854-121-025; 854-121-030 through 854-121-039 inclusive; 854-122-001 through 854-122-014 inclusive; and 854-123-001 through 854-123-013 inclusive.
Zone D - Zone D is comprised of parcels within the Oasis Village tract that have received a condition of tract map approval requiring the installation of landscaping in the public right-of-way. The parcels designated by APN's 842-161-001 through 842-161-010 inclusive; 842-161-013 through 842-161-022 inclusive; 842-161-043 2025/2026 Lighting District No. 1 Page 6
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through 842-161-050 inclusive; 842-162-001 through 842-162-012 inclusive; and 842-163-001 through 842-163-033 inclusive.
Zone E - Zone E is comprised of parcels within the Briarbrook tract that have received a condition of tract map approval requiring the installation of landscaping in the public right-of-way. The parcels designated by APN's 842-171-002 through 842-171-033 inclusive; 842-171-035; 842-171-037; 842-172-001 through 842-172- 020 inclusive; 842-191-001 through 842-191-023 inclusive; and 842-192-001 through 842-192-017 inclusive.
Zone F - Zone F is comprised of parcels within the Desert Horizons tract that have received a condition of tract map approval requiring the installation of landscaping in the public right-of-way. The parcels designated by APN's 851-151-001 through 851-151-019 inclusive; 851-152-001 through 851-152-032 inclusive; and 851-153- 001 through 851-153-018 inclusive.
Zone G - Zone G is comprised of parcels within the Sonora tract that have received a condition of tract map approval requiring the installation of landscaping in the public right-of-way.
The parcels designated by APN's 842-141-001 through 842-141-011 (inclusive) inclusive; 842-141-031; 842-141-032; 842-142-001 through 842-142-016 inclusive; 842-143-001 through 842-143-007 inclusive; 842-144-001 through 842- 144-024 inclusive; 842-150-001 through 842-150-009 inclusive; 842-150-019 through 842-150-040 inclusive; and 842-060-034 (38 homes are planned on the parcel designated by 842-060-034) which currently exists in FY 2025/2026.
Zone H - Zone H is comprised of parcels within the Vista Sunrise tract that have received a condition of tract map approval requiring the installation of landscaping in the public right-of-way. The parcels designated by APN's 869-371-001 through 869-371-009 inclusive; 869-371-011; 869-371-013 through 869-371-031 inclusive; 869-372-001 through 869-372-007 inclusive; 869-372-009; 869-372-011 through 869-372-015 inclusive; 869-372-017; 869-373-001 through 869-373-010 inclusive; 869-374-001 through 869-374-010 inclusive; and 869-431-005 through 869-431- 010 inclusive.
The boundaries of Zones A through Hare further described on the Boundary Map (on file in the office of the City Clerk as Exhibit"A"). assessment.
B. ASSESSMENT FORMULA
The formula used to calculate the amount spread to the parcels within the District for street lighting starts with the basic assessment unit. The basic assessment unit 2025/2026 Lighting District No. 1 Page 7
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(AU) is given a value of one (1) for a single-family residential parcel in Zone A.
From this base, the remaining parcels are related according to their equivalent benefit within the District. Zone B parcels are not assessed for streetlights. Zones C through H, inclusive, utilize the same formula for landscape maintenance as does Zone A for street lighting. The assignment of assessment units is shown in the table below.
Assessment Unit Chart
Land Use Land Use Code AU Per
Single Family Residential (SFR) 1 1.00 Parcel
Apartments (!)
1 thru 4 DU 2, 3,4 1.00 DU
5 thu 20 Du 5 0.75 DU
21 thru 50 Du 0.67 DU
5t thru 100 DU 0.50 DU
101 BU or more 5 0.40 DU
Commercial (Non-Vacant) 2) 10 6:00 Acre
+ Exempt Parcels (9) 0.00 Parcel
Vacant (Any Land tise)i 22 0.50 Patcel
Public Utilities: (5) 30 6.00 Agre
Churches, Fraternal Organizations (6) 40 1.00 Parcel.
Railmad Property (7 50 3:00 Acre
Agricultural Uses 60 0.25 Acre
Zarie B (Notessessed forstreet lighting) 99 0.00 Parcel Notes:
(1) DU = Dwelling Unit. The assessment formula for apartment complexes is additive. Apartment units are assessed on a decreasing scale as the number of units increase because such units generally have a greater density per parcel than SFR's, are often located on upper stories, may be located a great distance from public rights-of-way, and generally are smaller units (in terms of floor area than SFR's. (2) Commercial parcels are assessed at a rate of six (6) units per acre. This is based on the basic assessment unit compared to an average 65-foot by 100-foot residential parcel. Since there are 6.7 such parcels per acre, the number of assessment units was rounded down to six (6) per acre and applied to commercial property.
(3) Parcels receiving no special benefit from the district such as letter lots, open space, streets, etc. are exempt.
(4) Vacant parcels are assessed 0.5 AU per parcel for street lighting and landscaping (if the parcel is within a landscaping zone). Said vacant parcels receive a benefit from streetlights which tends to reduce vandalism and trash dumping in spite of the fact that they are not developed. Those vacant parcels that are assessed for landscaping receive a benefit that tends to enhance the value of the property. (5) Public utility parcels are assessed in the same manner as commercial properties. (6) Churches and fraternal organizations are assessed at one (1) AU per parcel because they generally have less intensive usage of the land than other non-residential uses, such as commercial parcels, and therefore benefit less from the improvements.
(7) Railroad property parcels are assessed at one-half of the amount applied to commercial properties or public utilities because their parcels are railroad track rights-of-way which receive a safety benefit due to grade crossing lighting, but whose improvements are less susceptible to vandalism than commercial property improvements.
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Assessment Examples
Lighting
The number of assessment units (AU) generated within the District for street lighting is 4,891.73. The dollars generated per AU in Zone A are:
$104,487.35/ 4,891.73 AU= $21.36/ AU
A. Commercial property on a 0.75-acre parcel.
Assessment Unit Chart shows commercial property is assessed at a rate of six (6) AU per acre.
Formula:
0.75 acres x 6 AU / acre = 4.5 AU
The Fiscal Year 2025/2026 assessment for this commercial parcel is:
4.5 AU x $21.36/ AU = $96.12
Landscaping
The number of assessment units (AU) generated in Zone C for landscape maintenance is 50.50. The dollars generated per AU in Zone C are:
$3,559.75 / 50.50 AU = $70.49 / AU
A. Single-family residence in Zone C.
Assessment Unit Chart shows single-family residence is assigned one (1) AU per parcel.
The FY 2025/2026 assessment for a single-family residence is:
1 AU × $70.49 / AU = $70.49
Assessments in Zones D through H are determined in the same manner as assessments in Zone C as shown in the above example.
Motecer denis a apare and ease love raided down to an even pony as the County does C. SUMMARY OF ASSESSMENTS
A summary of the number of parcels for each land use within the City of Blythe for 2025/2026 Lighting District No. 1 Page 9
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Fiscal Year 2025/2026 is presented below.
Lighting District No. 1
Land Use Code Land Use Number of Active Parcels
1 Single-Family Residence 2,236
2 Apartments -Duplex 124
3 Apartments -Triplex 17
4 Apartments -Fourplex . 15
5 Apartments -5 Units or More 51
10 Commercial (Non-Vacant) 297
20 Exempt Parcels 174
22 Vacant (Any Land Use) 456
30 Public Utilities 7
40 Churches, Fraternal Organizations 32
50 Railroad Property 20!
60 Agricultural Uses 10
99 Zone B (Not Assessed for Street Lighting) 435
TOTAL 3,874
2025/2026 Lighting District No. 1 Page 10
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V. DISTRICT BUDGET
The estimated cost requirements for Fiscal Year 2025/2026, for the improvements described in Section Ill of this report, are summarized in following tables. Estimated direct costs and incidental costs to be funded by the District are shown for each benefit zone.
Notes:
1. Zone B is undeveloped area with no streetlights and therefore no assessments.
2. Incidental Costs are prorated among the zones of benefit in proportion to their respective servicing and maintenance costs.
2025/2026 Lighting District No. 1 Page 11
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ATTACHMENT E
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CITY OF BLYTHE
LIGHTING DISTRICT NO. 1
FISCAL YEAR 2025/2026
COST ESTIMATE
Zone A Street Zone B
TOTAL
Undeveloped LIGHTING
COSTITEMS Lighting
(Not Assessed)
MAINTENANCE AND SERVICES
Zone A Street Lighting S81,783.85 $81,783.85
Zone B Undeveloped $0.00 0.00
Zone G Landscape Maintenance - River Valley
ZoneD Landscape Maintenance - Oasis Village
Zone E Landscape Maintenance - Briarbrook
Zone F Landscape Maintenance - Desert Horizon
Zone G Landscape Maintenance - Sonora
Zone H Landscape Maintenance - Vista Sunrise
Subtotal - Maintenance and Servicing Costs 581,783.85 $0.00 $81,783.85 Rate per AU 516.72 $0.00
INCIDENTAL COSTS
City Administration S13,831.46 50.00 S13,831.46
Consultant Services 7,610.86 0.00 7,610:86
Riverside County Administration 1,261.19 0.00 1261.19
Subtotal - Incidental Costs $22,703.50 $0.00 $22,703.50 Rate per AU $4.64 $0.00
Projected Contribution to Reserve Fund Balance $0.00 $0.00 50.00 Contribution from Reserve Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00
Subtotal - Contributions $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
Contributions per AU $0.00 50.00
TOTAL DISTRICT COSTS FY 2025/2026 $104,487.35 $0.00 $104,487.35 Number of Assessment Units 4,891.73 0.00 4,891,73
Rate per AU (FISCAL YEAR 2025/2026) $21.36 $0.00
$21.36 $0.00
Note: Variance in district cost versus levy amount due to County rounding to even penny. 2025/2026 Lighting District No. 1 Page 12
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CITY OF BLYTHE
LANDSCAPE DISTRICT NO. 1
FISCAL YEAR 2025/2026
COST ESTIMATE
SPECIAL BENEFIT ZONES
COSTITEMS Landscape Landscape Landscape Landscape Landscape Landscape LANDSCAPE Maintenance Maintenance Maintenance Maintenance Maintenance Maintenance
MAINTENANCE AND SERVICES
Zone A Street Lighting
Zone B Undeveloped
Zone C Landscape Maintenance. River Valley $2,792,01 $2,792.01 S2,466.14 2,465.14
Zone D: Landscape Maintenance - Oasis Village A 4,441.34 Zone E Landscape Maintenance - Briarbrook S4.441.31
82,530 68. 2,53068
Zone F Landscape Maintenance - Desert Hortzon 6,038 45/ Zone G Landscape Maintenance - Sonora $6,038.45
Zone H Landscape Maintenance. Vista Sunrise S618.28 516.28 5279209 $2,466.14 $4,441.31 $2,630.68 $6,038.46 $516.28 S48.773.86 Subtotal - Maintenance and Servicing Costs
Rate per AU $55.29 $33 63: $47.25 $52.72 $61.62 $7.59
INCIDENTAL COSTS
City Administration $471.22 $414.36 $749.58 $427.11 $1.019.13 $87,13 $3, 168.54; 269.29 228,01 412.46 235:02 560.79 47.95 81,743.51
Consultant Services
Riverside County Administration 37.23 32.73 59.22 33.74. 80.51 6.88 $250.81 3767.74, $675.10 $1221.25 3595 88 $1,660 e $141.96 86,162.37.
Subtotal - Incidental Costs
$15.20 $9.26 $12.99. $14.50 $18.94 $2.09
Rate per AU
$0,00 $0:00 $0.00 $6.00 $0:00 S0.00 $0.00
Projected Contribution to Reserve Fund Balance
Contribution from Reserve Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0,00 000F 0.00 $0.00 50.00 60.00 "$0.00 $0.06 80.00 $0.00
Subtotal - Contributions 3.
$0.00 -$0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0:00
Contributions per AU
TOTAL DISTRICT COSTS FY 2026/2026 $3,669.76 $3.130:24 $6,662.66 $3,226.56 $7,698.88 $658.24 $23,936.23 Number of Assessment Units 73,00 94.00 48,00 98.00 68.00 431.50 Rate per AU (FISCAL YEAR 2025/2026) $42.88 $60.24 367.22 $78.56 $9.68 Max Rate per AU (FISCAL YEAR 2025/2026) $42.88 $60.24 $67.22 $78.56 $9.68 ATTACHMENT E Note: Variance in district cost versus levy amount due to County rounding to even penny. 2025/2026 Lighting District No. 1 Page 13
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CITY OF BLYTHE
LIGHTING & LANDSCAPE DISTRICT'S NO. 1
FISCAL YEAR 2025/2026
COST ESTIMATE
COST ITEMS TOTAL ALL ZONES
MAINTENANCE AND SERVICES
Zone A Street Lighting $81,783.85
Zone B Undeveloped 0.00
Zone G Landscape Maintenance - River Valley 2,792.01
Zonte D Landscape Maintenance - Oasis Village 2,455.14
Zone E Landscape Maintenance - Briarbrook 4,441.31
Zone F. Landscape Maintenancé - Deser Horizon 2,530.68
Zone G Landscape Maintenance - Sonora 6,038.45
Zone H Landscape Maintenance - Vista Sunrise 516.28
Subtotal - Maintenance and Servicing Costs $100,567.71
INCIDENTAL COSTS
City Administration $17,000.00
Consultant Services 9,354.37
Riverside County Administration 1,511.50
Subtotal - Incidental Costs $27,865.87
Projected Contribution to Reserve Fund Balance $0:00
Contribution from Reserve Fund 0.00
Subtotal - Contributions $0.00
TOTAL DISTRICT COSTS FY 2025/2026 S128,423.58
Note: Variance in district cost versus levy amount due to County rounding to even penny. 2025/2026 Lighting District No. 1 Page 14
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VI. ASSESSMENT ROLLS
Parcel identification, for each lot or parcel within the District, shall be the parcel as shown on the Riverside County Assessor's Parcel Maps for the year in which this Report is prepared. The land use classification and specific parcel data for each parcel is based on property information available from the Riverside County Assessor's Office or provided by the City, and by reference is made part of this Report. A listing of parcels to be assessed within the District for Fiscal Year 2025/2026, along with the proposed assessment amounts is provided on the following pages.
Approval of this Report (as submitted or as modified) confirms the method of apportionment and the proposed assessment rates to be levied against each eligible parcel within the District and thereby constitutes the approved levy and collection of assessments for Fiscal Year 2025/2026. The parcels and the amount of assessment to be levied shall be submitted to the Riverside County Auditor/Controller and included on the property tax roll for the fiscal year.
If any parcel submitted for collection is identified by the County. Auditor/Controller to be an invalid parcel number for the current fiscal year, a corrected parcel number and/or new parcel number will be identified and resubmitted to the County Auditor/Controller. The assessment amount to be levied and collected for the resubmitted parcel or parcels shall be based on the method of apportionment and assessment rate approved in this Report.
Therefore, if a single parcel has changed to multiple parcels, the assessment amount applied to each of the new parcels shall be recalculated and applied according to the approved method of apportionment and assessment rate rather than a proportionate share of the original assessment.
2025/2026 Lighting District No. 1 Page 15
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ATTACHMENT F
THE CITY OF
PRELIMINARY DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION PURPOSES ONLY
Blythe
CALIFORNIA
FIRST SUNRISE IN CALIFORNIA
City of Blythe
Lighting District No. 2
2025/2026 ENGINEER'S ANNUAL LEVY REPORT
Intent Meeting: May 13, 2025
Public Hearing: June 10, 2025
82°
27368 Via Industria, Suite 200
Temecula, California 92590
T. 951,587,3500 800.755.6864
F. 951.587.3510 888.326.6864
0034
www.willdan.com
W WILLDAN
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ATTACHMENT F
ENGINEER'S REPORT AFFIDAVIT
Lighting District No. 2
City of Blythe
Riverside County, State of California
This Report describes the District and relevant zones therein including the improvements, of parcels within the District. The undersigned respectfully submits the enclosed Report Dated this day of - 2025.
Willdan Financial Services
Assessment Engineer
On Behalf of the City of Blythe
By:
Stacee Reynolds, Principal Consultant
District Administration Services
By: _
Tyrone Peter
PE # C 81888
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. OVERVIEW 2
A. INTRODUCTION
B. HISTORICAL BACKGROUND AND CURRENT LEGISLATION
C. IMPROVEMENTS AUTHORIZED BY THE 1972 ACT
II. BOUNDARIES OF THE DISTRICT 4
III. IMPROVEMENTS 4
A. STREET LIGHTS
B. LANDSCAPE AND ORNAMENTAL STRUCTURES
C. PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS
IV. METHOD OF APPORTIONMENT 6
A. ZONES
ASSESSMENT FORMULA
C. LIMITATIONS ON INCREASE OF ANNUAL ASSESSMENT 13
V. DISTRICT BUDGET 14
VI. ASSESSMENT ROLL
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ATTACHMENT F
1. OVERVIEW
A. INTRODUCTION
Pursuant to the order of the City Council of the City of Blythe, this report is prepared LIghting at of 1972, Part or Dision 1 rice treater i ways Coding the State of California.
This report presents the engineering analysis for the 2025/2026 Fiscal Year for the District to be known as: City of Blythe Lighting District No. 2 (Hereinafter referred to as "District").
This District, by special benefit assessments provides funding for the maintenance and servicing of streetlights and appurtenant facilities owned and maintained by Southern California Edison Company, all of which are located in public rights-of- way in the District.
B. HISTORICAL BACKGROUND AND CURRENT LEGISLATION
Section 22573, Landscaping and Lighting Act of 1972 ("the 1972 Act") requires assessments to be levied according to benefit rather than according to assessed value. The section states:
"The net amount to be assessed upon lands within an assessment District may be apportioned by any formula or method which fairly distributes the net amount among all assessable lots or parcels in proportion to the estimated benefits to be received by each such lot or parcel from the improvements."
Furthermore, Section 4 of Article XIIID of the California Constitution requires that no assessment shall be imposed on any parcel which exceeds the reasonable cost of the proportional special benefit conferred on that parcel.
The 1972 Act also provides for the classification of various areas within an assessment District into different zones where,
"by reason of variations in the nature, location and extent of the improvements, the various areas will receive differing degrees of benefit from the improvements. A zone shall consist of all territory which will receive substantially the same degree of benefit from the improvements." -10
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An assessment District may consist of contiguous or noncontiguous areas. As the ssessments are levied on the basis of benefit, they are considered a specia eneiit assessment, not a tax, and therefore, are not governed by Article XIIIA o Article XIIIC of the California Constitution. Properties owned by public agencies, such as a city, county, state or the federal government must be assessed by law unless it can be demonstrated that they receive no special benefit.
C. IMPROVEMENTS AUTHORIZED BY THE 1972 ACT
As applicable or may be applicable to this District, the 1972 Act defines improvements to mean one or any combination of the following:
• The installation or planting of landscaping.
• The installation or construction of statuary, fountains, and other ornamental structures and facilities.
• The installation or construction of public lighting facilities. • The installation or construction of any facilities which are appurtenant to any of the foregoing or which are necessary or convenient for the maintenance or servicing thereof, including, but not limited to, grading, clearing, removal of debris, the installation or construction of curbs, gutters, walls, sidewalks, or paving, or water, irrigation, drainage, or electrical facilities. • The maintenance or servicing, or both, of any of the foregoing. • The acquisition of any existing improvement otherwise authorized pursuant to this section.
Incidental expenses associated with the improvements including, but not limited to:
• The cost of preparation of the report, including plans, specifications, estimates, diagram, and assessment;
• The costs of printing, advertising, and the publishing, posting and mailing of notices;
• Compensation payable to the County for collection of assessments; • Compensation of any engineer or attorney employed to render services; • Any other expenses incidental to the construction, installation, or maintenance and servicing of the improvements;
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• Any expenses incidental to the issuance of bonds or notes pursuant to Section 22662.5.
• Costs associated with any elections held for the approval of a new or increased assessment.
The 1972 Act defines "maintain" or "maintenance" to mean furnishing of services and materials for the ordinary and usual maintenance, operation, and servicing of any improvement, including:
• Repair, removal, or replacement of all or any part of any improvement. • Providing for the life, growth, health, and beauty of landscaping, including cultivation, irrigation, trimming, spraying, fertilizing, or treating for disease or injury.
• The removal of trimmings, rubbish, debris, and other solid waste. • The cleaning, sandblasting, and painting of walls and other improvements to remove or cover graffiti.
II. BOUNDARIES OF THE DISTRICT
The proposed boundary of the District is completely within the City limits of the City of Blythe and is shown on the Boundary Map (on file in the office of the City Clerk at the Blythe City Hall as Exhibit "A" and incorporated herein by reference). Exhibit "A" serves as the assessment diagram for the District. The boundary includes the parcels of land that are located in the vicinity of street lighting improvements that were installed during or after Fiscal Year 1996/1997 or from street lighting improvements which were installed during Fiscal Year 2012/2013 and are not included in Lighting District No. 1. Any parcels or lots confirmed within the District zones that are also within the boundary of Lighting District No. 1 (L.D. No. 1) shall be de-annexed from L.D. No. 1. All parcels of real property included within the District are described in detail on maps on file in the Riverside County Assessor's office.
III. IMPROVEMENTS
The facilities and items of servicing and maintenance included within the District are as follows:
A. STREET LIGHTS
i map showing the location of all lighting zones within the District, is on file in th office of the City Clerk at the Blythe City Hall as Exhibit "B". The areas in whicl street light facilities are being operated and maintained during Fiscal Year -10
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2025/2026 are designated as Zones 1 through 16, inclusive. There are no traffic signals within the District.
Servicing means the furnishing of electric current or energy, gas or other illuminating agent for public street lighting and appurtenant facilities.
Maintenance means the furnishing of services and materials for the ordinary and usual maintenance, operation and servicing of any improvement, including repair, removal, or replacement of all or any part of a component of the street lighting system, and the cleaning, sandblasting and painting of improvements to remove or cover graffiti.
For the purposes of establishing benefit zone boundaries, a distance of 200 feet from a streetlight is used. The 200-foot distance establishes the usable area of light around a streetlight. This distance is used to include both full lighting coverage and partial lighting coverage of a parcel. That is, if a portion of a parcel is within 200 feet of a streetlight, it is subject to an assessment.
B. LANDSCAPE AND ORNAMENTAL STRUCTURES
A map showing the location of all landscaping zones within the District, is on file at City Hall with the City Clerk of the City of Blythe as Exhibit "C".
Servicing means the furnishing of water for the irrigation of any landscaping, the operation of any fountains, or the maintenance of any other improvements.
Maintenance means the furnishing of services and materials for the ordinary and usual maintenance, operation and servicing of any improvement, including:
1. Repair, removal or replacement of all or any part of any improvement.
2. Putting forthe ite, troin, salting, fertilizing, or treating for disease cultivation, irrigation,
or injury.
3. The removal of trimmings, rubbish, debris and other solid waste.
4. The cleaning, sandblasting and painting of walls and other improvements to remove or cover graffiti.
Note: There are no new landscaping and ornamental structure zones in Fiscal Year 2025/2026.
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ATTACHMENT F
C. PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS
The plans and specifications showing and describing the general nature, location and extent of the improvements are on file in the office of the City Clerk and are incorporated herein by reference.
IV. METHOD OF APPORTIONMENT
The net amount to be assessed upon lands within the District in accordance with this public street lighting and appurtenant facilities within the District. The maintenance and servicing of public lighting and appurtenant facilities installed and constructed in public places in the District provides a special benefit which is received by each and every assessed lot or parcel within the specified zones of benefit in the District, tending to specifically enhance their value. The streets within the District provide access to all lots or parcels assessed. Streetlights improve ingress and egress from such lots or parcels by illuminating access after sunset. Such streetlights, by so improving ingress and egress, improve the security of such lots or parcels by improving the nighttime visibility of such lots or parcels and improve the access of emergency vehicles thereto and in the case of commercial lots or parcels, facilitate the opening and operation of business uses after sunset.
The primary benefits of street lighting are convenience, safety, security and protection of property, property improvements and goods as set forth below:
1. Improvement to traffic circulation and reduction in night-time accidents and attendant human misery and decrease in personal property loss.
2. Less vulnerability to criminal assault at night.
3. Promotion of business during nighttime hours.
4. Improved ingress and egress to lots and parcels.
5. Reduction in vandalism and other criminal acts resulting in damage to improvements.
A. ZONES
The 1972 Act provides for areas within a District to be classified into different -11
ATTACHMENT F
Zone 1 - Properties fronting on or generally within 200 feet of Hobsonway from the west boundary of Annexation 43 to 600 feet east of Intake Boulevard.
Zone 2 - All properties generally within 200 feet of the streetlight at the intersection of Riverside Avenue and Intake Boulevard.
Zone 3 - All properties generally within 200 feet of the streetlights in the Bell Lane area.
Zone 4 - Those properties within 200 feet of the streetlights along the frontage of Riviera Drive.
Zone 5 - The first and second phases of the Palo Verde Oasis tract located on the south side of Hobsonway, just west of DeFrain Boulevard.
Zone 6 - All properties fronting Dekens Court and the parcel across Wells Road from Dekens Court in the northwest area of the City of Blythe.
Zone 7 - The mobile home park on Wells Road and the parcel (s) directly across Wells Road from the mobile home park in the northwest area of the City of Blythe.
Zone 8 - The recreational vehicle (RV) park on Arrowhead Boulevard and the parcel directly across Arrowhead Boulevard from the RV park in the northwest area of the City of Blythe.
Zone 9 - The 67-lot subdivision at the southeast corner of the intersection of Arrowhead Boulevard and 4th Street known as the Fairway Villas.
Zone 10 - The lots and parcels within 200 feet of the streetlight at the intersection of 7th Street and 11th Avenue.
Zone 11 - The lot (APN 857-210-021) on Riviera Drive east of Intake Boulevard which contains the apartment complex known as Casa Encina at River Heights.
This apartment complex contains 81 units.
Zone 12 - The parcels fronting, or within 200 feet of a street light on, 14th Avenue from a point on its centerline that is 132 feet east of the centerline intersection of 14th Avenue and Bell Lane easterly to Intake Boulevard; excluding there from all parcels on the north side of 14th Avenue from said point on the centerline of 14th Avenue to a second point on its centerline 1330 feet easterly, said second point being on the prolongation of the east boundary of the River Valley tract.
Zone 13 - Tract Map No. 30620, Lots 1 through 19, inclusive (Current APN's: 857- 220-001 through 857-220-012, inclusive; 857-221-001 through 857-221-007, inclusive).
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ATTACHMENT F
Zone 14 - Tract Map No. 30991, Lots 1 through 90, inclusive (Current APN's: 851- 160-001 through 851-160-005, inclusive; 851-161-001 through 851-161-013, inclusive; 851-161-018 through 851-161-030, inclusive; 851-162-001 through 851- 162-007, inclusive; and 851-163-001 through 851-163-008, inclusive; 851-164-001 through 51-164-06, inclusive: 851-170-001 through 51-1/0-05, Inclusive; 851-171-001 through 851-171-010, inclusive; 851-172-002 and 851-172-006, 851- 172-012 through 851-172-022, inclusive).
Zone 15 - Tract Map No. 31352, Lots 1 through 42, inclusive (Current APN's: 842- 220-001 through 842-220-017, inclusive; 842-221-001 through 842-221-016, inclusive; and 842-222-001 through 842-222-009, inclusive).
Zone 16 - Tract Map No. 28758, Lots 1 through 59, inclusive, Tract Map No. 28758-1, Lots 1 through 40, inclusive and one City owned lot (100 lots total) (APN's: 833-360-001 through 833-360-011, inclusive; 833-360-022 through 833- 360-035, inclusive; 833-360-038 through 833-360-047, inclusive; 833-370-028 through 833-370-036, inclusive; 833-370-038 through 833-370-042, inclusive; 833-370-045 through 833-370-064, inclusive; and 833-380-001 through 833-380- 030, inclusive), plus City of Blythe lots designated by APN 833-330-008.
Zone 82 - (Landscaping) The 67-lot subdivision at the southeast corner of the intersection of Arrowhead Boulevard and 4th Street known as the Fairway Villas (coincident with Lighting Zone 9). Currently the landscaping for this zone is handled by a Homeowners Association.
Zone 84 - (Landscaping) Same Boundary as Lighting Zone No. 14 with the same tract map and lot numbers shown above.
Zone 85 - (Landscaping) Same Boundary as Lighting Zone No. 15 with the same tract map and lot numbers shown above.
B. ASSESSMENT FORMULA
The basic formula used to calculate the amount spread to each parcel within the District for street lighting starts with the basic assessment unit. The basic assessment unit (AU) is given a value of one (1) for a single-family residential parcel. From this base, the remaining parcels are related according to their equivalent benefit within the District. The assignment of assessment units is shown in Table Il below.
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ATTACHMENT F
Table I|
ASSESSMENT UNIT CHART
Land Use Land Use Code AU Per
Single Family Residential. 1 1 Parcel
-Duplex, Triplex, Fourplex ro 2, 3,4 0.8 ĐU
Apartments: Standard (Five or more units) ey 5 0.6
Apartments: Studio Units (Five or more units) 2 6 0.4
Mobile Home: Park ar Separate Lot * 7 0.8
Recreational Vehicle Park f 8 0.3 Space
Commercial 9) 10 5 Acre
Exempt Parcets (Homeowner's Association Parcels) 20 0 Parcel Shall be assessed at the same rate as simitar
Public Parcels (City, County, Water District, ett.) 5) non-public parcels (e.g., City Hall would be assigned at the same rate as a parcel with
commercial use - 5 AU's per acre).
Vacant (Any land use) (*) 22 0.5 Parcel
Public Utilities ® 30 5 Acre.
Churches, Fraternal Organizations (8) 40 1 Parcel
Railroad, PVID Property 9) 50 2.5 Acre
Agricultural Uses. (to) 60 0.25 Acre
Notes:
1. DU = Dwelling Unit. Duplex, triplex, fourplex and mobile home parcels, as well as each space in a mobile home park, are assessed at a rate of 0.8 AU per parcel/space because such units are generally smaller than single-family residences.
2. The assessment formula for standard apartment complexes is 0.6 AU per DU. Apartment units are assessed less than a single family dwelling because such units generaily have a greater density per parcel than SFR's, are often located on upper stories, may be located a great distance from public rights- of-way, and generally are smaller units (in terms of floor area than SFR's. Studio apartment complexes are assessed at a rate of 0.4 AU per DU because these units are generally smaller than standard apartment units with a single room living area with a bathroom and a small closet.
3. Recreational vehicle (RV) park parcels are assessed at a rate of 0.3 AU per space because RV parks tend to have seasonal business and often have a high number of vacancies. Therefore, they are assessed at a substantially lower rate than mobile home parks.
4. Commercial parcels are assessed at a rate of five (5) units per acre. This is based on the basic assessment unit applied to an average 65-foot by 100-foot (6,500 square feet) residential parcel. If an additional area allowance of 20 percent (20%) is added to the average residential parcel to account fo ublic streets, the total area per average residential parcel becomes 7,800 square feet. Since there an
5.6 such parcels per acre, the number of assessment units is rounded down to five (5) per acre, with a minimum of 1 AU per parcel, and applied to non-vacant commercial property.
5. Parcels owned by public agencies such as the federal government, states, counties, cities, water District, irrigation District, etc. are subject to assessment unless it can be shown that the parcel receives no special benefit from the facilities being maintained and serviced with the assessment proceeds.
6. Vacant parcels are assessed 0.5 units per parcel for street lighting. Said vacant parcels do receive a special benefit from streetlights which tends to reduce vandalism and trash dumping in spite of the fact that they are not developed.
7. Public utility parcels are assessed in the same manner as commercial properties. -11
ATTACHMENT F
8. Churches and fraternal organizations are assessed at 1 AU per parcel because they generally have less intensive usage of the land than other non-residential uses, such as commercial parcels, and therefore benefit less from the improvements.
9. Railroad and Palo Verde Irrigation District (VID) parcels are assessed at one-half the amount applied to commercial properties or public utilities because their parcels are railroad track or irrigation canal rights- of way which receive a safety benefit due to grade crossing lighting (RR) or general lighting (PVID), but whose improvements are less susceptible to vandalism than commercial property improvements.
10. Agricultural parcels can have different types of use. Agricultural properties with no residence are assessed
0.25 AU per acre with a minimum of 0.5 AU per parcel (similar to other vacant property). Agricultural parcels with residences are assessed 0,25 AU per acre with a minimum of I AU per residence per parcel (similar to other residential parcels).
1. Special Benefit Analysis
Special benefit is defined as a particular and distinct benefit over and above the general benefit conferred on real property located in the District or to the public at large. General enhancement of property value does not constitute special benefit.
Only special benefits are assessable, and the District must separate the special benefits from the general benefits conferred on a parcel.
General benefit is gained by lots or parcels outside of the District and by the general public. That is, lots or parcels outside of the zone in question, or a member of the general public that occasionally uses the street improvements within that zone, are gaining a benefit that is general in nature and for which cannot be assessed
The maintenance and servicing of public landscaping, ornamental structures, and appurtenant facilities installed and constructed in and along public roadways, streets and rights-of-way in the City of Blythe provides a special benefit which is received by each and every lot or parcel within the specified zones of benefit in the District, tending to enhance their value. Landscaping within the District enhances the aesthetic appeal of parcels within the landscaping zones. In addition, landscaping and ornamental structures improve erosion resistance and dust control. The streets within the District provide access to all lots or parcels assessed.
The primary benefits of landscaping are as set forth below:
1. Improved aesthetic appeal of nearby parcels.
2. Improved erosion resistance.
3. Improved dust control.
4. Enhancement of the value of property which results from the foregoing benefits.
In general, there is no component of general benefit for landscaping since each landscaping zone is set up on a tract-by-tract basis, thereby generating special benefit only.
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ATTACHMENT F
Concerning this District, the general benefit component of the total benefit to each lot or parcel gained from street lighting is determined from the classification of each street which has public streetlights. It follows that when a street is used between sunset and sunrise, streetlighting is also used and is of benefit. The City of Blythe has five (5) separate street classifications, which are discussed below.
Starting with the lowest classification first, the benefit derived from street lighting by properties fronting on or in close proximity to Local (residential) Streets is readily determined to be 100% special benefit because all trips on Local Streets end on those streets with no "pass-through" trips.
The benefit derived by parcels or lots fronting on or in close proximity to streetlights on Collector Streets is determined to be 95% special benefit because approximately 95% of the trips on Collector Streets end on or near such streets. It is estimated that 5% of the trips on Collector Streets are "pass-through" trips, which represent general benefit.
The benefit derived from parcels or lots fronting on, or in close proximity to, streetlights on Major Collector Streets is determined to be 90% special benefit because approximately 90% of the trips on Major Collector Streets end on or near such streets. It is estimated that 10% of the trips on Major Collector Streets are "pass-through" trips which represent general benefit.
The benefit derived from parcels or lots fronting on, or in close proximity to, streetlights on Arterial Streets is determined to be 85% special benefit because approximately 85% of the trips on Arterial Streets end on or near such streets. It is estimated that 15% of the trips on Arterial Streets are "pass-through" trips, which represent general benefit.
The benefit derived from parcels or lots fronting on, or in close proximity to, streetlights on Major Arterial Streets is determined to be 80%special benefit because approximately 80% of the trips on Major Arterial Streets end on or near such streets. It is estimated that 20% of the trips on Major Arterial Streets are "pass-through" trips, which represent general benefit.
If a parcel is located at an intersection of two streets with different classifications, the higher classification shall govern for establishing an assessment. -11
ATTACHMENT F
General
Street Classification Examples
Benefit (%)
Major Arteries (96
20%
RAM)
Arterial (94' RAM) 15% Hobsonway, Intake Boulevard, 14th Avenue, 7th Street Majan Collector (80 10% Chansior Way (Riverside Atrenue) RAN)
Collector (74 RAW) **5% Wells Road. 4th Avenue, Dekens Court 0% Riviera Drive, Bell Lane, Briar Lane, Juan Circle, Tore Local (60' RAM)
Gicle, Lide Lane Arrowhead Bouleyard
2. Assessment of Public Property
Since the passage of Proposition 218 in November of 1996, it has been required that lots and parcels owned by public agencies be assessed in the same manner and by the same formula as all other property. However, in order to be assessed any lot or parcel must receive a distinct and special benefit from the facilities and improvements which are being maintained and serviced by the assessment District proceeds. An example of a public parcel which would be subject to assessment would be a City-owned vacant parcel which is near a streetlight. That vacant parcel would be assessed at a rate of 0.5 AU just as a privately-owned vacant parcel would be.
3. Assessment Examples
Lighting
The number of assessment units (AU) generated within Zone 1 is 445.17. The dollars required in Zone 1 are $8,565.07. The dollar value of each AU is:
$8,565.07/445.17 AU = $19.24/AU
A. Commercial property on a 0.75-acre parcel.
Assessment Unit Chart shows commercial property is assessed at a rate of five (5) AU per acre.
Formula:
0.75 Acres × 5 AU/Acre = 3.75 AU
The Fiscal Year 2025/2026 assessment for this commercial parcel is:
3.75 AU x $19.24/AU = $72.14
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ATTACHMENT F
B. Standard apartment complex with 22-dwelling unit on one (1) parcel of land within Zone 1.
Assessment Unit Chart shows apartment complex is assessed at the rate of 0.6 AU per dwelling unit:
Formula:
22 DU × 0.6 AUIDU = 13.20 AU
The assessment for this apartment complex for Fiscal Year 2025/2026 is:
13.20 AU × $19.24/AU = $253.96
Landscaping:
The number of assessment units (AU) generated within Zone 85 is 42.00. The funding required in Zone 85 is $5,766.60. The dollar value of each AU is:
$5,766.60/42.00 AU = $137.30 AU
Each residence in Zone 85 is assessed for one AU, or $137.30.
Note: If any assessment amount is an odd penny, it will be rounded down to an even penny as the County does not accept odd cents and a parcel cannot be assessed over maximum.
LIMITATIONS ON INCREASE OF ANNUAL ASSESSMENT
The City Council will automatically increase assessments in accordance with the Consumer Price Index for all Urban Consumers for the Riverside-San Bernardino- Ontario, CA, published by the United States Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics; from March to March provided however, that any such annual increase shall not exceed five percent (5.00%). The maximum assessment rate will be increased.
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ATTACHMENT F
V. DISTRICT BUDGET
The estimated cost requirements for Fiscal Year 2025/2026, for the improvements described in the "Improvements" section of this report, are summarized in the below tables. Estimated costs are shown for each benefit zone and for incidental costs to be funded by the District.
Note: Incidental Costs are prorated among the zones of benefit in proportion to their respective servicing and maintenance costs.
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CITY OF BLYTHE
LIGHTING DISTRICT NO. 2
FISCAL YEAR 2025/2026
COST ESTIMATE
Zone 1 Zone 3 Zone 4 Zone 7 Zone 8 Zone 9 Zone 11
COST ITEMS Street Street
Lighting Lighting Lighting Lighting Lighting Lighting Lighting Lighting Lighting MAINTENANCE AND SERVICING $5,353,40 $454.39 $214.97 $2,411.54 $224.58 $143.75 9380-40 51 73324 $647 26 Less General Beneft Reduction (%) -0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0:00% • 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% Less General Beneft Reducton ($). 0.00 0.00 0.00 -0,00 0.00 Subtotal - Maintenance and Servicing Costs $5,353.46 - $454.39 $21497 $2411.54 $224.58 $14375 $38040 $1 733.24 S647.26
INCIDENTAL COSTS
Acty Administration: $1,830/12 $155.16 $76,37 $83240 $78.21 $49.24 $161.74 $597.45 S219.37 Consultant Services 1.337.47 t13.39 55.81 608 39 57.16 35.99 118.20 436.62 160.32 *Riverside County Administration 44.07 1889 10.34 45.42 6.30 0.90 95.80 30.13 0.45 Reserve Fund 0.00 0,00 0.00 0,00 0.00 0,00 0,00 0.00 0,00 $3.211.67 $287.44 514253 $1 486.15 $141 66 SB6.13 $375.73 61.064.20 $380.12 Subsoral - Incidental Cosis
Projecied Contribution to Reserve Fund Balance $0.00• $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0:00 $0.00 $0.00g
0.00 000 0.00 0.00 000 0.00 0:00 0.00 0-00
Contribution from Reserve Fund
S0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 - 50.00 50:00 $0.00 $0:00 Subtotal - Contibutions
Contributions per AU $0 00 S0 00 $0:00 $0.00 SO 00 $0.00 -$0.00 $0.00 $0:00 TOTAL DISTRICT COSTS FY 2025/2026 $8.565.07 $741 84 $357.50 S3.897 8g $366.24 $229.88 S756.13 $2.797.44 $1.027.40) Number of Parcels Assessed 98 42 101 14 213 , 67
Number of Assessment Units 445.17 A0.85 - 1060 86.50 14,00" 82.10 78.60 62.00 48.60 Rate per AU (Fiscal Year 2025/2026) $19.24 $18.16 $18.24 $45.06 $26.16 $2.80 $962 $45.12 $21.14 Max Rate per AU (Fiscal Year 2025/2026) $19.25 $18 16 $18.25 $45.07 $2646 $2.80 $9.63 S45.13 $21.14 ATTACHMENT F Note: Variance in district cost versus levy amount due to County rounding to even penny.
CITY OF BLYTHE
LIGHTING DISTRICT NO. 2
FISCAL YEAR 2025/2026
COST ESTIMATE
Zone 15 Zone 16 Zone 82 Zone 84 Zone 85
Zone 12 Zone 13 • cone 14 Total All
COST ITEMS Street Street Street Street Street Landscaping Landscaping Landscaping Zones Lighting Lighting Lighting Lighting Lighting
S1.173.27 $455.88 $1,908,50 $487 73 $391.31 $0.00 $17,760 14 $3.616.62 $37 356.98 MAINTENANCE AND SERVICING 0.00%
0.00% 0.00% 0,00% 0.00% 0.00% 0,00% 0.00% 0.00%
Less General Benefit Reduction (%)
0:00 0,00 0.00 0.0g 0:00 0.00 0:00
Less General Benefit Reduction (S)
Subtotal - Maintenance and Serviang Costs $1.173.27 $455.88 $1,808.60 $487.73 $391.31 $0.00 S17 760:14 83.818.62 $37,358.981
INCIDENTAL COSTS
$401.99 $157.34 $660.32 $171.75 $148.80 $0:00 $6,028.46 $1.231.27 $12 800:001 City Administration 8. 354.37.
293.78 114 99 482 67 195 51 108.75 0.00 4,405.66 898.83 Consultant Services
13.49 8.88 40.03 18:89 44:97 0.00 40.03 18:89 437:15
Riverside County Administration 0,00
Reserve Fund 0.00 -0,00 0.00 0.06 0.00 0.00 0:00 0,00
$709.27 S280.87 81,182.91 $318.15 $802.52 $0.00 $10,474:15 $2, 149.08 $22.591.62 Subtotal - Incidental Costs
$0.00 $0.00 S0.00 $0.00 80.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0:001 SO:001 Projected Contribution to Reserve Fund Balance
0:00 0:00 6.00 0:00 0.00 0:00 0.90
Contribution from Reserve Fund 10:00 90.00
80.00 80:00 $0.00 Ce AN $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
Subtolaf - Contabutions
$0.00 $0:00 $0:00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00- $0:00 $0.00/ Contributions per AU
TOTAL DISTRICT COSTS FY 2025/2026 $1.882.54 $738.75 $3,091.41 $803.88 $693.83 $0.00 $28,234.29 $5.760.60 $59,948:50 Number of Parcels Assessed 89 42) 972
39,80 12.50 73 50 42:00 178.10 82.00 73.50 42.00 1,398,82 Number of Assessment Units
Rate per AU (Fiscal Year 2025/2028) $47.30 $58.94 $42.08 S19 14 93 B4 $0.00 $384 14 $137.36 Max Rate per AU (Fiscal Year 2025/2026) $47,30 $58.96 342.07 $18,15 $3.95 $0:00 $384.16 ฿137 301 Note: Variance in district cost versus levy amount due to County rounding to even penny. ATTACHMENT F
ATTACHMENT F
VI. ASSESSMENT ROLL
Parcel identification, for each lot or parcel within the District, shall be the parcel as shown on the Riverside County Assessor's Parcel Maps for the year in which this Report is prepared. I he land use classification and specific parcel data for each parcel is based on property information available from the Riverside County Assessor's Office or provided by the City, and by reference is made part of this Report. A listing of parcels to be assessed within this District for fiscal year 2025/2026, along with the proposed assessment amounts is provided on the following pages.
Approval of this Report (as submitted or as modified) confirms the method of apportionment and the proposed assessment rates to be levied against each eligible parcel within the District and thereby constitutes the approved levy and collection of assessments for fiscal year 2025/2026. The parcels and the amount of assessment to be levied shall be submitted to the Riverside County Auditor/Controller and included on the property tax roll for the fiscal year.
If any parcel submitted for collection is identified by the County Auditor/Controller to be an invalid parcel number for the current fiscal year, a corrected parcel number and/or new parcel number will be identified and resubmitted to the County Auditor/Controller. The assessment amount to be levied and collected for the resubmitted parcel or parcels shall be based on the method of apportionment and assessment rate approved in this Report Therefore, if a single parcel has changed to multiple parcels, the assessment amount applied to each of the new parcels shall be recalculated and applied according to the approved method of apportionment and assessment rate rather than a proportionate share of the original assessment.
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PUBLIC
HEARING
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CITY OF BLYTHE
Blythe CITY COUNCIL MEETING
ЗАВЕНЕТ STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: May 13, 2025
SUBJECT: Ordinance No. 937-25 - Rezoning Two Parcels and Adding a New Section
17.27.050 to Title 17 (Zoning) of the Blythe Municipal Code Waiving the Art in Public Places Impact Fee on Affordable Housing and Special Needs Housing
PRESENTED BY: Mallory Crecelius, Interim City Manager
PREPARED BY: Brittany Roberto, City Attorney
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council, subsequent to the public hearing, introduce Ordinance No. 937-25:
ORDINANCE NO. 937-25 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, REZONING TWO PARCELS AND ADDING A NEW SECTION 17.27.050 (WAIVER OF FEE) TO CHAPTER 17.27 (ARTS IN PUBLIC PLACES PROGRAM) OF DIVISION III (DEVELOPMENT AND PERFORMANCE STANDARDS) OF TITLE 17 (ZONING) OF THE BLYTHE MUNICIPAL CODE WAIVING
THE ART IN PUBLIC PLACES IMPACT FEE ON AFFORDABLE HOUSING AND SPECIAL NEEDS
HOUSING, AND FINDING THE ORDINANCE IS EXEMPT FROM ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW UNDER
THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAI QUALITY ACT (CEQA) PURSUANT TO CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15061(B)(3) (COMMON SENSE EXEMPTION)
FISCAL IMPACT: None.
BACKGROUND: On August 13, 2024, the City Council adopted the City's 6th Cycle Housing Element for the 2021-2029 period, which was officially approved by the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) on August 29, 2024. As part of the Housing Element, the City committed to programs which require that changes be made to the Zoning Code, which is set forth in Title 17 of the Blythe Municipal Code.
STAFF REPORT: This is the third in a series of ordinances addressing changes required by the Housing Element. The proposed ordinance implements changes outlined in Program 1.A.4 and Program 2.A.3 of the Housing Element.
In Program 1.A.4, the City committed to amending the Zoning Code to require by-right approval of housing development that includes 20 percent of the units as housing affordable to lower income households, applicable to sites being used to meet the 6th Cycle Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) that represent a "reuse" of sites previously identified in the 4th and 5th Cycles Housing Element. As part of implementing this program, the proposed ordinance rezones two parcels, APNs 845030002 and 845030003, by adding a Housing Element Overlay (HEO) to each parcel. Ordinance No. 935-25, which the Council adopted at the April 8, 2025 meeting, also implements Program 1.A.4 by adding a HEO zone which allows affordable developments by right -12
and adding regulations in Section 17.08.020 that apply to sites designated as HEO.
In Program 2.A.3, the City committed to encouraging the development of housing for extremely low-, very low-, low-, and moderate-income households and for all special needs households through a variety of activities, including, but not limited to, waiving the Art in Public Places development impact fee which is applied to residential development of five or more lots or on five or more acres. To implement the portion of this program relating to waiving the Art in Public Places fee, the proposed ordinance adds a new Section 17.27.050 to the Zoning Code, which provides that the Art in Public Places fee will not be imposed on any housing project that includes affordable housing at a moderate income level or below or any special needs housing.
The City committed to additional amendments to the Zoning Code. Staff will present those proposed amendments to the Council at future meetings.
The Blythe Municipal Code and State law require two public hearings regarding the proposed ordinance. On February 26, 2025, the City published a notice of public hearing regarding the review of proposed Ordinance No. 937-25 for the March 11, 2025 City Council meeting. On March 11, 2025, the City Council, acting as the City's Planning Agency, continued the public hearing to April 8, 2025. On April 8, 2025, the City Council, acting as the City's Planning Agency, conducted a public hearing regarding the proposed ordinance.
Therefore, it is recommended that the City Council, subsequent to the public hearing, introduce Ordinance No. 937-25.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Ordinance No. 937-25
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ORDINANCE NO. 937-25
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, REZONING TWO PARCELS AND
ADDING A NEW SECTION 17.27.050 (WAIVER OF FEE) TO
CHAPTER 17.27 (ARTS IN PUBLIC PLACES PROGRAM)
OF DIVISION III (DEVELOPMENT AND PERFORMANCE
STANDARDS) OF TITLE 17 (ZONING) OF THE BLYTHE
MUNICIPAL CODE WAIVING THE ART IN PUBLIC PLACES
IMPACT FEE ON AFFORDABLE HOUSING AND SPECIAL
NEEDS HOUSING, AND FINDING THE ORDINANCE IS
EXEMPT FROM ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW UNDER THE
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA)
PURSUANT TO CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15061(B)(3)
(COMMON SENSE EXEMPTION)
The City Council of the City of Blythe hereby finds and declares as follows:
WHEREAS, on August 13, 2024, the City Council adopted the City's 6th Cycle 2021-2029 Housing Element ("Housing Element"); and
WHEREAS, the Housing Element includes a number of programs which require the City to make changes to its Zoning Code; and
WHEREAS, on March 11, 2025 and April 8, 2025, the City Council, acting as the City's Planning Agency, held a duly noticed public hearing and considered the staff report, recommendations by staff, and public testimony regarding the proposed amendments to Title 17 of the Blythe Municipal Code; and
WHEREAS, on May 13, 2025, the City Council held a second duly noticed public hearing and considered the staff report, recommendations by staff, and public testimony regarding the proposed amendments to Title 17 of the Blythe Municipal Code; and WHEREAS, all legal prerequisites prior to the adoption of this Ordinance have occurred.
NOW THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. Findings. The City Council finds that:
A. The foregoing recitals are true and correct.
B. The changes to Title 17 of the Blythe Municipal Code are consistent with the City's General Plan. More specifically, these changes implement changes required by the Housing Element.
Ordinance No. 937-25
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SECTION 2. Rezoning of Properties. The properties set forth in the table below shall be rezoned as indicated in the table and as shown in Exhibit A, and the Zoning Map of the City of Blythe shall be amended accordingly:
APN OLD ZONING NEW ZONING
845030002 High-Density Residential (R-H) High-Density Residential (R-H)/HEO 845030003 High-Density Residential (R-H) High-Density Residential (R-H)/HEO SECTION 3. Amendment to Chapter 17.27. Chapter 17.27 (Arts in Public Places Program) of Division III (Development and Performance Standards) of Title 17 (Zoning) of the Blythe Municipal Code is hereby by amended to add a new Section 17.27.050 to read as follows:
17.27.050 - Waiver of fee.
The art in public places fee authorized by this chapter shall not be imposed on:
A. Any housing project that includes affordable housing at a moderate income level or below. For purposes of this subsection, an affordable housing project is one that meets the requirements for a density bonus project under California Government Code section 65915.
B. Any special needs housing, including, but not limited to, housing for the elderly, homeless, farmworkers, and persons with disabilities.
SECTION 4. Environmental Compliance. The City Council hereby finds that it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the adoption and implementation of this Ordinance will have a significant effect on the environment. The Ordinance implements programs required by the City's Housing Element and will not result in any development or activity with the potential to impact the environment. The Ordinance is therefore exempt from the environmental review requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption) of the CEQA Guidelines.
SECTION 5. Inconsistencies. Any provision of the Blythe Municipal Code or appendices thereto inconsistent with the provisions of this Ordinance, to the extent of such inconsistencies and no further, is hereby repealed or modified to that extent necessary to affect the provisions of this Ordinance.
SECTION 6. Severability. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase or portion of this Ordinance is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by the decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance. The City Council of the City of Blythe hereby declares that it would have adopted this Ordinance and each section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more Ordinance No. 937-25
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sections, subsections, sentences, clauses, phrases or portions be declared invalid or unconstitutional.
SECTION 7. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days after its final passage.
SECTION 8. Certification. The City Clerk shall certify to the passage and adoption of this Ordinance and shall cause the same to be published or posted in the manner required by law.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this day of , 2025, by
the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Joseph DeConinck
Mayor
ATTEST:
Mallory Crecelius
City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Brittany E. Roberto
City Attorney
Ordinance No. 937-25
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Existing Zoning: High-Density Residential (R-H) EXHIBIT A New Zoning: High-Density Residential (R-H)/HEO 390
N Eucalyptus Ave
400
380
340
N Eucalyptus AVe
N Eucalyptus Ave
535
401
W Barnard
W Barnard St W Barnard St
450
200 500
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CITY OF BLYTHE
Blythe CITY COUNCIL MEETING
STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: May 13, 2025
SUBJECT: Consideration of Adoption of Urgency Ordinance No. 939-25-U, Repealing and Replacing Chapter 17.33 (Accessory Dwelling Units/Junior Accessory Dwelling Units) of Title 17 (Zoning ) of the Blythe Municipal Code for Compliance with State Law; and Review of Ordinance No. 940-25, Repealing and Replacing Chapter 17.33 (Accessory Dwelling Units/Junior Accessory Dwelling Units) of Title 17 (Zoning ) of the Blythe Municipal Code for Compliance with State Law
PRESENTED BY: Mallory Crecelius, Interim City Manager
PREPARED BY: Mallory Crecelius, Interim City Manager
Brittany E. Roberto, City Attorney
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council, acting as the City's Planning Agency, conduct a public hearing on Ordinance No. 940-25, repealing and replacing Chapter 17.33 of the Blythe Municipal Code to be compliant with State law provisions on ADÜs and JADUs. After the public hearing, it is recommended that the City Council, acting as the City Council, adopt Urgency Ordinance No. 939-25-U to immediately provide the City with the ability to regulate ADUs and JADUs to the extent allowed by law:
URGENCY ORDINANCE NO. 939-25-U - AN URGENCY ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, REPEALING AND REPLACING CHAPTER 17.33 (ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS/JUNIOR ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS) OF TITLE 17 (ZONING) OF THE
BLYTHE MUNICIPAL CODE FOR COMPLIANCE WITH STATE LAW AND MAKING A
DETERMINATION THAT THE ORDINANCE IS EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) PURSUANT TO PUBLIC RESOURCES CODE SECTION 21080.17
ORDINANCE NO. 940-25 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, REPEALING AND REPLACING CHAPTER 17.33 (ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS/JUNIOR ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS) OF TITLE 17 (ZONING) OF THE BLYTHE
MUNICIPAL CODE FOR COMPLIANCE WITH STATE LAW AND MAKING A DETERMINATION
THAT THE ORDINANCE IS EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) PURSUANT TO PUBLIC RESOURCES CODE SECTION 21080.17 FISCAL IMPACT: None.
BACKGROUND: On August 13, 2024, the City Council adopted the City's 6th Cycle Housing Element for the 2021-2029 period, which was officially approved by the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) on August 29, 2024. As part of the Housing Element, the City committed to programs which require that changes be made to the Zoning Code, which is set forth in Title 17 of the Blythe Municipal Code. In Program 2.A.8 of the Housing Element, the City committed to amending its ADU ordinance to comply with changes to State law.
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Since the City last updated Chapter 17.33 of the Blythe Municipal Code regarding accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and junior accessory dwelling units (JADUs, there have been numerous amendments to the State law, including the recodification of the law into new Government Code sections. Because the City's ordinance is out of compliance with State law, the City may only apply those provisions specified in the Government Code without any local amendments.
Urgency Ordinance No. 939-25-U amends Chapter 17.33 to be consistent with the most current provisions of State law to be effective immediately in order to restore local control. Ordinance No. 940-25 contains the exact same changes to Chapter 17.33, but is being brought forth through the normal procedures in order to provide the public with an opportunity to be heard on the matter.
STAFF REPORT: State law has been amended several times since the City last updated its ADU and JADUs provisions. The changes to Chapter 17.33 incorporate changes to the State ADU law, which include:
• Changes throughout to reflect the recodification of the State ADU law. • A revised definition of "primary dwelling."
• Incorporation by reference of any words or phrases used in the State ADU law which are not set forth in the Blythe Municipal Code.
• Language changes to reflect direction the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) has given on these matters, including to other cities.
For instance, HCD wants the Municipal Code to specifically state that applications will be "approved or denied" rather than applications shall be "processed," or "acted upon." • Incorporation of new requirements to provide an applicant with written comments if an application is denied.
• Requirement that an application to demolish a garage for an ADU be reviewed at the same time as the ADU application. This was to cut down on multiple steps that some cities were imposing.
• Shortened time frames if an applicant uses a preapproved plan for an ADU. • Clarification that applications cannot be denied due to the need to correct nonconforming zoning, conditions or building code violations, or due to unpermitted structures. This does not apply if there would be a threat to the public health and safety.
Additionally, the City may still bring code enforcement actions for such violations. • A new section has been added to group the various rules relating to unpermitted structures constructed prior to January 1, 2020 in one place. • Clarification as to where ADUs/JADUs may be located and that unless an applicant is proceeding under the mandatory provisions of State law, only one ADU or JADU shall be allowed in the residential zones.
• Revisions to the standards applicable to ADUs and JADUs to parallel state law. • State law now only allows objective design standards to be imposed. Therefore, terms such as "compatible" had to be eliminated.
• The height limits for ADUs have been amended to match State law. • The size of ADUs has been amended to match State law. Now, attached ADUs cannot exceed 850 square feet for up to one bedroom and 1,000 square feet for two or more bedrooms and the total floor area cannot exceed 50 percent of the existing primary dwelling. However, the 50 percent rule would have to be waived to allow at least an 800 square foot structure.
• Parking requirements have been amended to comply with HCD's written advice letters that no parking may be imposed on a studio unit. • Development standards for JADUs have all been included in one separate section. -13
• A section has been added to parallel the State requirements for mandatory approvals.
When ADUs/JADUs are processed under this section, the City may not impose any additional requirements other than what is in State law. State law has recently changed to provide that when there is an existing multi-family building on site, an applicant may add up to eight detached ADUs, provided it does not exceed the total units in the primary building.
• A single section has been added to place all of the regulations relating to utilities and fees into one place.
• A section has been added to provide that ADUs may not be separately conveyed, except as specifically permitted by Government Code section 66341 which applies to qualified nonprofit corporations.
The changes to Chapter 17.33 of the Blythe Municipal Code are statutorily exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Public Resources Code section 21080.17, which provides that CEQA is not applicable to ordinances to implement the State ADU law.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Ordinance No. 939-25-U
2. Ordinance No. 940-25
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URGENCY ORDINANCE NO. 939-25-U
AN URGENCY ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, REPEALING AND
REPLACING CHAPTER 17.33 (ACCESSORY DWELLING
UNITS/JUNIOR ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS) OF
TITLE 17 (ZONING) OF THE BLYTHE MUNICIPAL CODE
FOR COMPLIANCE WITH STATE LAW AND MAKING A
DETERMINATION THAT THE ORDINANCE IS EXEMPT
FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
ACT (CEQA) PURSUANT TO PUBLIC RESOURCES CODE
SECTION 21080.17
The City Council of the City of Blythe hereby finds and declares as follows:
WHEREAS, State law regarding Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADUs) has been amended by the State legislature numerous times since the City of Blythe last updated its Municipal Code provisions relating to ADUs and JADUs; and
WHEREAS, the City's Municipal Code provisions on ADUs and JADUs are no longer consistent with State law; and
WHEREAS, one of the programs included in the City's recently adopted Housing Element was to update the City's ordinance to comply with State law; and WHEREAS, the Department of Housing and Community Development recently communicated with the City and indicated that the City should repeal its existing regulations; and
WHEREAS, on May 13, 2025, the City Council, acting as the City's Planning Agency, held a duly noticed public hearing and considered the staff report, recommendations by staff, and public testimony regarding the proposed amendments to Title 17 of the Blythe Municipal Code prior to the adoption of this Urgency Ordinance; and WHEREAS, until the City adopts its own compliant ordinance, it is limited to the provisions contained in State law, eliminating local control; and WHEREAS, it is necessary for the City to immediately adopt new regulations for ADUs and JADUs in order to retain local control over those items in which it still has discretion; and
WHEREAS, the proposed amendments to Chapter 17.33 are consistent with the City's General Plan and further implement the programs of the Housing Element; and Ordinance No. 939-25-U
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WHEREAS, the City Council desires to immediately amend its provisions on ADUs and JADUs as well as to continue processing the changes as a regular ordinance in order to provide an opportunity for the public to comment.
NOW THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. Findings. The City Council finds that:
A. The foregoing recitals are true and correct.
B. The changes to Title 17 of the Blythe Municipal Code are consistent with the City's General Plan. More specifically, these changes implement changes required by the Housing Element and are compliant with State law.
SECTION 2. Repeal and Replace Chapter 17.33. Chapter 17.33 (Accessory Dwelling Units/Junior Accessory Dwelling Units) of Division IV (Special Provisions) of Title 17 (Zoning) of the Blythe Municipal Code is deleted in its entirety and replaced as follows:
Chapter 17.33 - ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS/JUNIOR ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS
17.33.010 - Purpose and scope.
A. This chapter's purpose is to encourage and allow the provision of affordable housing, while preserving the character and integrity of Blythe's residential uses and neighborhoods. This chapter establishes standards for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and junior accessory dwelling units (JADUs) in conformance with the State law provisions set forth in California Government Code Sections 66310 through 66342 ("State ADU law").
B. For purposes of this chapter, "primary dwelling" shall mean as follows:
1. In the case of a single-family residential zone, the existing single-family dwelling or the larger of two proposed units.
2. In the case of any other residential or mixed-use zone in which a single-family dwelling is allowed on the property, the existing single-family dwelling or the larger of two proposed units.
3. In the case of a multi-family or mixed-use zone which allows a residential use, the existing or proposed multi-family units.
C. As used in this chapter, single-family residential zones refers to the specific plan resort (SPR), rural residential (RR), agriculture (A), residential estates (R-E), and low density residential (R-L-1, R-L-72, R-L-1-72) zones.
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D. In cases of conflict between this chapter and any other provision of this title, the provisions of this chapter shall prevail. To the extent that any provision of this chapter is in conflict with state law, the mandatory requirement of state law shall control, but only to the extent legally required.
E. For the purposes of this chapter, words and phrases defined in the State ADU law shall have the same meaning when used in this chapter.
17.33.020 - Requirements.
A. Zoning Clearance. ADUs and JADUs consistent with the requirements of this chapter are allowed by-right with a building permit.
B. Applications. Applications for ADUs and JADUs shall be ministerially approved or denied within sixty days of receipt of a complete application. An application shall be approved if it meets the requirements of this chapter.
1. If the application is denied, the city shall return a full set of comments in writing to the applicant with a list of items that are defective or deficient with a description of how the application can be remedied by the applicant. These comments shall be provided to the applicant within sixty days of a complete application.
2. If the city does not approve or deny the completed application within sixty days, the application shall be deemed approved.
3. If the application is submitted in conjunction with an application for a new single-family or multi-family dwelling, the application for the ADU or JADU shall not be approved or denied until the application for the new single-family or multi-family dwelling is acted upon.
4. The city shall grant a delay if requested by the applicant.
5. All applications for ADUs and JADUs shall be accompanied by an application fee.
6. If a detached garage is to be replaced with an ADU, the demolition permit shall be reviewed with the application for the ADU and issued at the same time. . Notwithstanding the above, if the applicant uses a plan for an accessor welling unit that has been preapproved by the city or a plan that is identical to a plan used in an application for a detached accessory dwelling unit approved by the city within the current triennial California Building Standards Code cycle, the application shall be approved or denied within thirty days from the date of a complete application.
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8. An application for an ADU or a JADU shall not be denied due to the need to correct nonconforming | zoning conditions, building code violations, or unpermitted structures that do not present a threat to public health and safety and are not affected by the construction of the unit.
9. Approval of an ADU or a JADU shall not be conditioned on the correction of a nonconforming zoning condition.
C. Inspection and Permit Fees. ADUs and JADUs shall be subject to applicable inspection and permit fees.
D. No certificate of occupancy for an ADU shall be issued before the city issues a certificate of occupancy for the primary dwelling.
17.33.030 - Unpermitted structures constructed prior to January 1, 2020.
A. No application or permit shall be denied for an ADU or JADU that was constructed prior to January 1, 2020, based on either of the following:
1. The ADU or JADU is in violation of building standards pursuant to Article 1 of Chapter 5 of Part 1.5 of Division 13 of the California Health and Safety Code (commencing with Section 17960); or
2. The ADU or JADU does not comply with state law or the provisions of the Blythe Zoning Code regulating ADUS.
B. The provisions of subsection A, above, shall not apply if the city makes a finding that correcting the violation is necessary to comply with the standards specified in California Health and Safety Code Section 17920.3 or if the building is deemed substandard pursuant to California Health and Safety Code Section 17920.3.
C. The city shall inform a homeowner that, before submitting an application for a permit, the homeowner may obtain a confidential third-party code inspection from a licensed contractor to determine the unit's existing condition or potential scope of building improvements before submitting an application for a permit.
D. Upon receiving an application to permit a previously unpermitted ADU or JADU constructed before January 1, 2020, an inspector from the city may inspect the unit for compliance with health and safety standards and provide recommendations to comply with such standards in order to obtain a permit. The city shall not penalize an applicant for having the unpermitted ADU or JADU and shall approve necessary permits to correct noncompliance with health and safety standards.
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E. Until January 1, 2030, the city shall issue a statement along with a notice to correct a violation of any provision of any building standard relating to an accessory dwelling unit that provides substantially as follows:
You have been issued an order to correct violations or abate nuisances relating to your accessory dwelling unit. If you believe that this correction or abatement is not necessary to protect the public health and safety you may file an application with the Development Services Director. If the Development Services Director or designee determines that enforcement is not required to protect the health and safety, enforcement shall be delayed for a period of five years from the date of the original notice.
F. A homeowner shall not be required to pay impact fees or connection or capacity charges for a previously unpermitted unit except when utility infrastructure is required to comply with California Health and Safety Code Section 17920.3 and when the fee is authorized by California Government Code Section 66324(e).
17.33.040 - Permitted locations/numbers.
A. An ADU is permitted on any lot where single- or multiple-family dwellings are a permitted use as specified in this chapter. An ADU is also allowed on a lot where single- or multiple-family dwellings are a conditionally permitted use, provided that the lot will contain either a single- or multiple-family dwelling.
B. A JADU is permitted in a single-family residential zone.
C. Except as provided in Section 17.33.080, below, only one ADU or JADU shall be allowed in a residential zone.
D. ADUs are allowed within, attached to, or detached from the primary unit in accordance with the provisions of this chapter.
17.33.050 - Transient lodging - prohibited.
ADUs and JADUs may not be rented for periods of less than thirty-one days.
17.33.060 - Site and design standards.
A. General Standards.
1. ADUs and JADUs are not included in density calculations, are considered residential uses consistent with the existing general plan and zoning designation for the lot, and may count as dwelling units for purposes of identifying adequate sites for housing.
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2. ADUs and JADUs must satisfy the requirements of Title 15 of this code (Buildings and Construction) and any other applicable provisions of the California Building Standards Code as each may be amended from time to time, except that the construction of an ADU shall not constitute a Group R occupancy change unless the building official makes a written finding based on substantial evidence in the record that the construction of the ADU could have a specific, adverse impact on public health and safety.
3. Notwithstanding anything in the California Building Standards Code to the contrary, fire sprinklers shall not be required if they are not required for the primary residence and the construction of an ADU or JADU shall not trigger a requirement for sprinklers to be installed in the primary dwelling.
4. The floor area of an ADU and JADU (either attached or detached) may not be less than the floor area required for an efficiency dwelling unit as provided by California Health and Safety Code Section 17958.1(b).
B. Height. ADUs shall be subject to the following height limitations:
1. A height of 16 feet for a detached ADU on a lot with an existing or proposed single-family or multi-family dwelling unit.
2. A height of 18 feet for a detached ADU on a lot with an existing or proposed single-family or multi-family dwelling unit that is within one-half mile walking distance of a major transit stop or a high-quality transit corridor as defined in California Public Resources Code Section 21155. The ADU may have an additional two feet in height to accommodate a roof pitch on the ADU that is aligned with the roof pitch of the primary dwelling unit.
3. A height of 18 feet for a detached ADU on a lot with an existing or proposed multi-family, multistory dwelling.
4. A height of 25 feet or the height limit of the applicable zone that applies to the primary dwelling, whichever is lower, for an ADU that is attached to a primary dwelling. In no event shall the ADU exceed two stories.
C. Lot Coverage. An ADU shall comply with the lot coverage standards for the zoning district in which it is located.
D. An ADU must have kitchen and bathroom facilities that are separate from the primary dwelling.
E. Maximum Unit Size.
1. Detached. For lots with a proposed or existing single-family dwelling, a detached ADU shall not exceed 1,200 square feet.
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2. Attached. An ADU attached to a single-family dwelling shall not exceed 850 square feet for an ADU with zero to one bedrooms, or 1,000 square feet for an ADU of two or more bedrooms. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the total floor area of an attached ADU shall not exceed fifty percent of the existing primary dwelling.
3. Interior Conversions. ADUs which are converted from space entirely within existing structures, including accessory structures, and ADUs entirely within proposed lawful single-family dwellings, are not subject to a limit on maximum square footage.
4. Existing Home Designated as ADU. If a lot contains an existing single-family dwelling less than 1,200 square feet in size, the existing single-family dwelling may be designated as an ADU as part of a project to construct a new single- family dwelling on the lot.
F. Setbacks.
1. Front setback: Per the base zoning standard.
2. Side setback: Four feet.
3. Rear setback: Four feet.
4. Building separation: Detached ADUs must be at least ten feet from any other building on the lot.
5. Conversion of Existing Accessory Structure. No setbacks are required for an existing accessory structure, or a structure constructed in the same location and to the same dimensions as an existing structure that is converted to an G. Parking.
1. In addition to the required parking for the primary units), one parking space shall be provided for an ADU that is a minimum of one bedroom in size. The required parking space may be provided as:
a. Tandem parking on an existing driveway in a manner that does not encroach onto a public sidewalk and otherwise complies with city parking requirements; or
b. Within a setback area or as tandem parking unless the city manager or the city manager's designee determines that parking in the setback or tandem Ordinance No. 939-25-U
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parking is not feasible based upon specified site or regional topographical or fire and life safety conditions.
2. Notwithstanding the foregoing, no parking space shall be required for an ADU a. It is located within one-half mile walking distance of public transit such as a bus stop, bus station, train station, etc.;
b. It is located within an architecturally and historically significant district; c. It is part of a proposed or existing primary residence or accessory structure; d. On-street parking permits are required but not offered to the occupant of the ADU;
e. There is a car share vehicle located within one block of the ADU; or f. When a permit application for an ADU is submitted with a permit application to create a new single-family dwelling or a new multi-family dwelling on the same lot, provided that the ADU or the parcel satisfies any other criteria listed in this section.
3. When a garage, carport, uncovered, or covered parking space is demolished in conjunction with the construction of an ADU or converted into an ADU, those off-street parking spaces need not be replaced.
H. Waiver of Standards. Development standards shall be waived to the extent required in order to allow an accessory dwelling unit that is 800 square feet, that does not exceed the height requirements set forth in Section 17.33.060.B, above, and has a minimum of four-foot side and rear yard setbacks.
17.33.070 - Development standards - JADUS.
A. Where Allowed. One JADU shall be allowed within an existing or proposed single- family dwelling on a lot zoned for single-family residences, including in an attached garage. A JADU may also be allowed on the same lot as an ADU permitted under Section 17.33.080, below.
B. Owner Occupancy. Unless the owner is another governmental agency, land trust, or housing organization, the owner shall be required to live in either the primary unit or the JADU.
C. Efficiency Kitchen. A JADU shall be required to contain at least an efficiency kitchen which includes a sink, cooking appliances, a food preparation counter and storage cabinets that are of reasonable size in relation to the JADU.
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D. Separate Entrance. A JADU shall be required to have a separate entrance from the primary dwelling which shall be located on a different side of the residence than the front door of the primary dwelling.
E. Sanitation Facilities. A JADU may, but is not required to, include separate sanitation facilities. If separate sanitation facilities are not provided, the JADU shall share sanitation facilities with the single-family residence and shall have direct access to the single-family residence from the interior of the dwelling unit.
F. Parking. No additional parking shall be required for a JADU.
G. Building Standards. JADUs shall be required to comply with applicable building standards, except that fire sprinklers shall not be required if they were not required for the single-family residence.
H. JADU Not a Separate Unit. For the purposes of applying any fire or life protection ordinance or regulation, or providing service water, sewer, or power, including a connection fee, a JADU shall not be considered to be a separate or new dwelling unit.
I. Deed Restriction. The owner of any new JADU shall record against the property a deed restriction, which shall run with the land, in a form that meets the approval of the city attorney and which establishes the following:
1. The JADU shall not be sold separately from the single-family residence.
2. The JADU is restricted to the maximum size of 500 square feet.
3. The JADU may not be rented for a period of less than thirty-one days.
4. A restriction that the owner must reside either in the primary dwelling or in the JADU. This restriction shall not apply if the owner of the single-family dwelling is a governmental agency, land trust, or housing organization.
5. The deed restriction shall be binding upon any successor in ownership of the property.
17.33.080 - Mandatory approvals.
A. Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, the city shall ministerially approve an application for any of the following accessory dwelling units within a residential or mixed-use zone to create any of the following:
1. One ADU and one JADU within the existing or proposed space of a single- family dwelling or accessory structure.
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a. An expansion of up to 150 square feet shall be allowed in an accessory structure solely for the purposes of accommodating ingress and egress. b. The JADU shall have exterior access separate from the existing or proposed single-family dwelling.
c. The side and rear setbacks shall be sufficient for fire and safety. d. If the unit is a JADU, it shall comply with the requirements of this chapter.
2. One new detached ADU with minimum four-foot side and rear yard setbacks on a lot with an existing or proposed single-family dwelling; provided, that the unit shall not be more than 800 square feet and shall not exceed the height requirements set forth in Section 17.33.060.B(1) through (3), above. A JADU may be developed in conjunction with this type of detached ADU, provided it complies with the requirements of subsection (A)(1) of this section.
3. On a lot with a multi-family dwelling structure, up to twenty-five percent of the existing total multi-family dwelling units, but no less than one unit, shall be allowed within the portions of the existing structure that are not used as livable space, including, but not limited to, storage rooms, boiler rooms, passageways, attics, basements, or garages; provided, that each unit complies with state building standards for dwellings.
4. On a lot with a proposed multi-family dwelling structure, up to two detached units; provided that neither unit exceeds the height requirements set forth in Section 17.33.060.B(1) through (3), above, and has at least four-foot side and rear yard setbacks.
5. On a lot with an existing multi-family dwelling structure, up to eight detached units, but in no event more than the number of existing units on the lot, provided that neither unit exceeds the height requirements set forth in Section
17.33.060.B(1) through (3), above, and has at least four-foot side and rear yard setbacks.
B. For those ADUs and/or JADUs which require mandatory approval, the city shall not require the correction of nonconforming zoning conditions.
C. The installation of fire sprinklers shall not be required in an ADU approved under this section if fire sprinklers are not required for the primary residence.
D. No unit approved under this section shall be rented for a period of thirty-one days or less.
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17.33.090 - Utilities and Fees.
A. Public Utilities. All ADUs and JADUs must be connected to public utilities or their equivalent, including water, electric, and sewer services. However, legally compliant well-water and septic services may meet these requirements on a lot with a single-family dwelling if the well-water and septic services would be authorized if the ADU or JADU were a single-family dwelling.
B. Zones of Insufficient Water and Sewer Service. Unless prohibited by law, new ADUs are prohibited if the public works director or designee determines the surrounding residential neighborhood has insufficient water or sewer service. The public works director shall maintain a document detailing the known areas in the city with insufficient water or sewer service and the map shall be posted on the city's website and shall be promptly made available to the public upon request.
The public works director shall update the document periodically.
C. Impact Fees.
1. No impact fee shall be imposed on any ADU less than 750 square feet in size.
2. For ADUs 750 square feet or greater, impact fees shall be charged proportionately in relation to the square footage of the primary dwelling.
3. All applicable public service and applicable recreation impact fees shall be paid prior to occupancy in accordance with California Government Code Sections 66000 et seq. and 66012 et seq.
4. For purposes of this section, "impact fee" shall have the same meaning as set forth in California Government Code Section 66324.
D. Connection Fees/Capacity Charges.
1. An ADU shall not be considered to be a new residential use for purposes of calculating connection fees or capacity charges for utilities, including for water and sewer service, unless the ADU is being constructed with a new single- family dwelling. A JADU shall not be considered a separate or new dwelling unit.
2. For an ADU contained within a single-family dwelling meeting the requirements of Section 17.33.080.A(1), above, the city shall not impose a connection fee or capacity charge, or require a new or separate utility connection between the ADU and the utility, unless the unit is being constructed with a new single-family dwelling. For all other ADUs, the city shall charge a connection fee or capacity charge that is proportionate to the burden of the proposed ADU based on the size of the unit or number of plumbing fixtures.
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17.33.100 - Separate conveyance.
Except as permitted by California Government Code section 66341, an ADU may not be separately sold or conveyed.
SECTION 3. Urgency Declaration; Effective Date. This Ordinance shall become effective immediately upon adoption pursuant to California Government Code section 36937. The grounds constituting the urgency are set forth in the recitals of this Ordinance.
SECTION 4. Environmental Compliance. The City Council finds and determines that this Ordinance is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21080.17, which provides that CEQA does not apply to an ordinance to implement State ADU law.
SECTION 5. Inconsistencies. Any provision of the Blythe Municipal Code or appendices thereto inconsistent with the provisions of this Ordinance, to the extent of such inconsistencies and no further, is hereby repealed or modified to that extent necessary to affect the provisions of this Ordinance.
SECTION 6. Severability. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion of this Ordinance is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by the decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance. The City Council of the City of Blythe hereby declares that it would have adopted this Ordinance and each section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, sentences, clauses, phrases, or portions be declared invalid or unconstitutional.
SECTION 7. Certification. The City Clerk shall certify to the passage and adoption of this Ordinance and shall cause the same to be published or posted in the manner required by law.
SECTION 8. Transmission to HCD. The City Clerk shall send a copy of this Ordinance to the Department of Housing and Community Development as required by State law.
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PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 13th day of May, 2025, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Joseph DeConinck
Mayor
ATTEST:
Mallory Crecelius
City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Brittany E. Roberto
City Attorney
Ordinance No. 939-25-U
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ORDINANCE NO. 940-25
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, REPEALING AND REPLACING
CHAPTER (ACCESSORY DWELLING
UNITS/JUNIOR ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS) OF
TITLE 17 (ZONING) OF THE BLYTHE MUNICIPAL CODE
FOR COMPLIANCE WITH STATE LAW AND MAKING A
DETERMINATION THAT THE ORDINANCE IS EXEMPT
FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
ACT (CEQA) PURSUANT TO PUBLIC RESOURCES CODE
SECTION 21080.17
The City Council of the City of Blythe hereby finds and declares as follows:
WHEREAS, State law regarding Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADUs) has been amended by the State legislature numerous times since the City of Blythe last updated its Municipal Code provisions relating to ADUs and JADUs; and
WHEREAS, on May 13, 2025, the City Council adopted Urgency Ordinance No. 939-25-U to immediately put amended regulations for ADUs and JADUs in place to be consistent with State law, and on that same date, prior to the adoption of the Urgency Ordinance, the City Council, acting as the City's Planning Agency, held a duly noticed public hearing and considered the staff report, recommendations by staff, and public testimony regarding the proposed amendments to Title 17 of the Blythe Municipal Code; and
WHEREAS, prior to the adoption of the Urgency Ordinance, the City's Municipal Code was no longer consistent with State law; and
WHEREAS, in addition to adopting the provisions as an Urgency Ordinance, the City Council also wishes to adopt the same provisions through the noticed public hearing procedures in order to give the public an opportunity to comment on the changes; and WHEREAS, on _, 2025, the City Council held a second duly noticed public hearing and considered the staff report, recommendations by staff, and public testimony regarding the proposed amendments to Title 17 of the Blythe Municipal Code; and
WHEREAS, all legal requirements prior to the adoption of this Ordinance have occurred.
NOW THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
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SECTION 1. Findings. The City Council finds that:
A. The foregoing recitals are true and correct.
B. The changes to Title 17 of the Blythe Municipal Code are consistent with the City's General Plan. More specifically, these changes implement changes required by the Housing Element and are compliant with State law.
SECTION 2. Readoption of Chapter 17.33. The City Council hereby readopts the provisions of Chapter 17.33 that were put into place by Urgency Ordinance No. 939- 25-U without further change. The provisions are set forth below.
Chapter 17.33 - ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS/JUNIOR ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS
17.33.010 - Purpose and scope.
A. This chapter's purpose is to encourage and allow the provision of affordable housing, while preserving the character and integrity of Blythe's residential uses and neighborhoods. This chapter establishes standards for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and junior accessory dwelling units (JADUs) in conformance with the State law provisions set forth in California Government Code Sections 66310 through 66342 ("State ADU law").
B. For purposes of this chapter, "primary dwelling" shall mean as follows:
1. In the case of a single-family residential zone, the existing single-family dwelling or the larger of two proposed units.
2. In the case of any other residential or mixed-use zone in which a single-family dwelling is allowed on the property, the existing single-family dwelling or the larger of two proposed units.
3. In the case of a multi-family or mixed-use zone which allows a residential use, the existing or proposed multi-family units.
C. As used in this chapter, single-family residential zones refers to the specific plan resort (SPR), rural residential (RR), agriculture (A), residential estates (R-E), and low density residential (R-L-1, R-L-72, R-L-1-72) zones.
D. In cases of conflict between this chapter and any other provision of this title, the provisions of this chapter shall prevail. To the extent that any provision of this chapter is in conflict with state law, the mandatory requirement of state law shall control, but only to the extent legally required.
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E. For the purposes of this chapter, words and phrases defined in the State ADU law shall have the same meaning when used in this chapter.
17.33.020 - Requirements.
A. Zoning Clearance. ADUs and JADUs consistent with the requirements of this chapter are allowed by-right with a building permit.
B. Applications. Applications for ADUs and JADUs shall be ministerially approved or denied within sixty days of receipt of a complete application. An application shall be approved if it meets the requirements of this chapter.
1. If the application is denied, the city shall return a full set of comments in writing to the applicant with a list of items that are defective or deficient with a description of how the application can be remedied by the applicant. These comments shall be provided to the applicant within sixty days of a complete application.
2. If the city does not approve or deny the completed application within sixty days, the application shall be deemed approved.
3. If the application is submitted in conjunction with an application for a new single-family or multi-family dwelling, the application for the ADU or JADU shall not be approved or denied until the application for the new single-family or multi-family dwelling is acted upon.
4. The city shall grant a delay if requested by the applicant.
5. All applications for ADUs and JADUs shall be accompanied by an application fee.
6. If a detached garage is to be replaced with an ADU, the demolition permit shall be reviewed with the application for the ADU and issued at the same time.
7. Notwithstanding the above, if the applicant uses a plan for an accessory dwelling unit that has been preapproved by the city or a plan that is identical to a plan used in an application for a detached accessory dwelling unit approved by the city within the current triennial California Building Standards Code cycle, the application shall be approved or denied within thirty days from the date of a complete application.
8. An application for an ADU or a JADU shall not be denied due to the need to correct nonconforming zoning conditions, building code violations, or unpermitted structures that do not present a threat to public health and safety and are not affected by the construction of the unit.
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9. Approval of an ADU or a JADU shall not be conditioned on the correction of a nonconforming zoning condition.
C. Inspection and Permit Fees. ADUs and JADUs shall be subject to applicable inspection and permit fees.
D. No certificate of occupancy for an ADU shall be issued before the city issues a certificate of occupancy for the primary dwelling.
17.33.030 - Unpermitted structures constructed prior to January 1, 2020.
A. No application or permit shall be denied for an ADU or JADU that was constructed prior to January 1, 2020, based on either of the following:
1. The ADU or JADU is in violation of building standards pursuant to Article 1 of Chapter 5 of Part 1.5 of Division 13 of the California Health and Safety Code (commencing with Section 17960); or
2. The ADU or JADU does not comply with state law or the provisions of the Blythe Zoning Code regulating ADUs.
B. The provisions of subsection A, above, shall not apply if the city makes a finding that correcting the violation is necessary to comply with the standards specified in California Health and Safety Code Section 17920.3 or if the building is deemed substandard pursuant to California Health and Safety Code Section 17920.3.
C. The city shall inform a homeowner that, before submitting an application for a permit, the homeowner may obtain a confidential third-party code inspection from a licensed contractor to determine the unit's existing condition or potential scope of building improvements before submitting an application for a permit.
D. Upon receiving an application to permit a previously unpermitted ADU or JADU constructed before January 1, 2020, an inspector from the city may inspect the unit for compliance with health and safety standards and provide recommendations to comply with such standards in order to obtain a permit. The city shall not penalize an applicant for having the unpermitted ADU or JADU and shall approve necessary permits to correct noncompliance with health and safety standards.
E. Until January 1, 2030, the city shall issue a statement along with a notice to correct a violation of any provision of any building standard relating to an accessory dwelling unit that provides substantially as follows:
You have been issued an order to correct violations or abate nuisances relating to your accessory dwelling unit. If you believe that this correction or abatement is not necessary to protect the public health and safety you may file an application with the Development Services Director. If the Development Services Director or Ordinance No. 939-25-U
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designee determines that enforcement is not required to protect the health and safety, enforcement shall be delayed for a period of five years from the date of the original notice.
F. A homeowner shall not be required to pay impact fees or connection or capacity charges for a previously unpermitted unit except when utility infrastructure is required to comply with California Health and Safety Code Section 17920.3 and when the fee is authorized by California Government Code Section 66324(e).
17.33.040 - Permitted locations/numbers.
A. An ADU is permitted on any lot where single- or multiple-family dwellings are a permitted use as specified in this chapter. An ADU is also allowed on a lot where single- or multiple-family dwellings are a conditionally permitted use, provided that the lot will contain either a single-or multiple-family dwelling.
B. A JADU is permitted in a single-family residential zone.
C. Except as provided in Section 17.33.080, below, only one ADU or JADU shall be allowed in a residential zone.
D. ADUs are allowed within, attached to, or detached from the primary unit in accordance with the provisions of this chapter.
17.33.050 - Transient lodging - prohibited.
ADUs and JADUs may not be rented for periods of less than thirty-one days.
17.33.060 - Site and design standards.
A. General Standards.
1. ADUs and JADUs are not included in density calculations, are considered residential uses consistent with the existing general plan and zoning designation for the lot, and may count as dwelling units for purposes of identifying adequate sites for housing.
2. ADUs and JADUs must satisfy the requirements of Title 15 of this code (Buildings and Construction) and any other applicable provisions of the California Building Standards Code as each may be amended from time to time, except that the construction of an ADU shall not constitute a Group R occupancy change unless the building official makes a written finding based on substantial evidence in the record that the construction of the ADU could have a specific, adverse impact on public health and safety.
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3. Notwithstanding anything in the California Building Standards Code to the contrary, fire sprinklers shall not be required if they are not required for the primary residence and the construction of an ADU or JADU shall not trigger a requirement for sprinklers to be installed in the primary dwelling.
4. The floor area of an ADU and JADU (either attached or detached) may not be less than the floor area required for an efficiency dwelling unit as provided by California Health and Safety Code Section 17958.1(b).
B. Height. ADUs shall be subject to the following height limitations:
1. A height of 16 feet for a detached ADU on a lot with an existing or proposed single-family or multi-family dwelling unit.
2. A height of 18 feet for a detached ADU on a lot with an existing or proposed single-family or multi-family dwelling unit that is within one-halt mile walking distance of a major transit stop or a high-quality transit corridor as defined in California Public Resources Code Section 21155. The ADU may have an additional two feet in height to accommodate a roof pitch on the ADU that is aligned with the roof pitch of the primary dwelling unit.
3. A height of 18 feet for a detached ADU on a lot with an existing or proposed multi-family, multistory dwelling.
4. A height of 25 feet or the height limit of the applicable zone that applies to the primary dwelling, whichever is lower, for an ADU that is attached to a primary dwelling. In no event shall the ADU exceed two stories.
C. Lot Coverage. An ADU shall comply with the lot coverage standards for the zoning district in which it is located.
D. An ADU must have kitchen and bathroom facilities that are separate from the primary dwelling.
E. Maximum Unit Size.
1. Detached. For lots with a proposed or existing single-family dwelling, a detached ADU shall not exceed 1,200 square feet.
2. Attached. An ADU attached to a single-family dwelling shall not exceed 850 square feet for an ADU with zero to one bedrooms, or 1,000 square feet for ar ADU of two or more bedrooms. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the total floor area of an attached ADU shall not exceed fifty percent of the existing primary dwelling.
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3. Interior Conversions. ADUs which are converted from space entirely within existing structures, including accessory structures, and ADUs entirely within proposed lawful single-family dwellings, are not subject to a limit on maximum square footage.
4. Existing Home Designated as ADU. If a lot contains an existing single-family dwelling less than 1,200 square feet in size, the existing single-family dwelling may be designated as an ADU as part of a project to construct a new single- family dwelling on the lot.
F. Setbacks.
1. Front setback: Per the base zoning standard.
2. Side setback: Four feet.
3. Rear setback: Four feet.
4. Building separation: Detached ADUs must be at least ten feet from any other building on the lot.
5. Conversion of Existing Accessory Structure. No setbacks are required for an existing accessory structure, or a structure constructed in the same location and to the same dimensions as an existing structure that is converted to an ADU.
G. Parking.
1. In addition to the required parking for the primary units), one parking space shall be provided for an ADU that is a minimum of one bedroom in size. The required parking space may be provided as:
a. Tandem parking on an existing driveway in a manner that does not encroach onto a public sidewalk and otherwise complies with city parking requirements; or
b. Within a setback area or as tandem parking unless the city manager or the city manager's designee determines that parking in the setback or tandem parking is not feasible based upon specified site or regional topographical or fire and life safety conditions.
2. Notwithstanding the foregoing, no parking space shall be required for an ADU if:
a. It is located within one-half mile walking distance of public transit such as a bus stop, bus station, train station, etc.;
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b. It is located within an architecturally and historically significant district; c. It is part of a proposed or existing primary residence or accessory structure; d. On-street parking permits are required but not offered to the occupant of the ADU;
e. There is a car share vehicle located within one block of the ADU; or f. When a permit application for an ADU is submitted with a permit application to create a new single-family dwelling or a new multi-family dwelling on the same lot, provided that the ADU or the parcel satisfies any other criteria listed in this section.
3. When a garage, carport, uncovered, or covered parking space is demolished in conjunction with the construction of an ADU or converted into an ADU, those off-street parking spaces need not be replaced.
H. Waiver of Standards. Development standards shall be waived to the extent required in order to allow an accessory dwelling unit that is 800 square feet, that does not exceed the height requirements set forth in Section 17.33.060.B, above, and has a minimum of four-foot side and rear yard setbacks.
17.33.070 - Development standards - JADUs.
A. Where Allowed. One JADU shall be allowed within an existing or proposed single- family dwelling on a lot zoned for single-family residences, including in an attached garage. A JADU may also be allowed on the same lot as an ADU permitted under Section 17.33.080, below.
B. Owner Occupancy. Unless the owner is another governmental agency, land trust, or housing organization, the owner shall be required to live in either the primary unit or the JADU.
C. Efficiency Kitchen. A JADU shall be required to contain at least an efficiency kitchen which includes a sink, cooking appliances, a food preparation counter and storage cabinets that are of reasonable size in relation to the JADU.
D. Separate Entrance. A JADU shall be required to have a separate entrance from the primary dwelling which shall be located on a different side of the residence than the front door of the primary dwelling.
E. Sanitation Facilities. A JADU may, but is not required to, include separate sanitation facilities. If separate sanitation facilities are not provided, the JADU shall share sanitation facilities with the single-family residence and shall have direct access to the single-family residence from the interior of the dwelling unit.
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F. Parking. No additional parking shall be required for a JADU.
G. Building Standards. JADUs shall be required to comply with applicable building standards, except that fire sprinklers shall not be required if they were not required for the single-family residence.
H. JADU Not a Separate Unit. For the purposes of applying any fire or life protection ordinance or regulation, or providing service water, sewer, or power, including a connection fee, a JADU shall not be considered to be a separate or new dwelling unit.
I. Deed Restriction. The owner of any new JADU shall record against the property a deed restriction, which shall run with the land, in a form that meets the approval of the city attorney and which establishes the following:
1. The JADU shall not be sold separately from the single-family residence.
2. The JADU is restricted to the maximum size of 500 square feet.
3. The JADU may not be rented for a period of less than thirty-one days.
4. A restriction that the owner must reside either in the primary dwelling or in the JADU. This restriction shall not apply if the owner of the single-family dwelling is a governmental agency, land trust, or housing organization.
5. The deed restriction shall be binding upon any successor in ownership of the property.
17.33.080 - Mandatory approvals.
A. Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, the city shall ministerially approve an application for any of the following accessory dwelling units within a residential or mixed-use zone to create any of the following:
1. One ADU and one JADU within the existing or proposed space of a single- family dwelling or accessory structure.
a. An expansion of up to 150 square feet shall be allowed in an accessory structure solely for the purposes of accommodating ingress and egress. b. The JADU shall have exterior access separate from the existing or proposed single-family dwelling.
c. The side and rear setbacks shall be sufficient for fire and safety. d. If the unit is a JADU, it shall comply with the requirements of this chapter.
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2. One new detached ADU with minimum four-foot side and rear yard setbacks on a lot with an existing or proposed single-family dwelling; provided, that the unit shall not be more than 800 square feet and shall not exceed the height requirements set forth in Section 17.33.060.B(1) through (3), above. A JADU may be developed in conjunction with this type of detached ADU, provided it complies with the requirements of subsection (A)(1) of this section.
3. On a lot with a multi-family dwelling structure, up to twenty-five percent of the existing total multi-family dwelling units, but no less than one unit, shall be allowed within the portions of the existing structure that are not used as livable space, including, but not limited to, storage rooms, boiler rooms, passageways, attics, basements, or garages; provided, that each unit complies with state building standards for dwellings.
4. On a lot with a proposed multi-family dwelling structure, up to two detached units; provided that neither unit exceeds the height requirements set forth in Section 17.33.060.B(1) through (3), above, and has at least four-foot side and rear yard setbacks.
5. On a lot with an existing multi-family dwelling structure, up to eight detached units, but in no event more than the number of existing units on the lot, provided that neither unit exceeds the height requirements set forth in Section
17.33.060.B(1) through (3), above, and has at least four-foot side and rear yard setbacks.
B. For those ADUs and/or JADUs which require mandatory approval, the city shall not require the correction of nonconforming zoning conditions.
C. The installation of fire sprinklers shall not be required in an ADU approved under this section if fire sprinklers are not required for the primary residence.
D. No unit approved under this section shall be rented for a period of thirty-one days or less.
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17.33.090 - Utilities and Fees.
A. Public Utilities. All ADUs and JADUs must be connected to public utilities or their equivalent, including water, electric, and sewer services. However, legally compliant well-water and septic services may meet these requirements on a lot with a single-family dwelling if the well-water and septic services would be authorized if the ADU or JADU were a single-family dwelling.
B. Zones of Insufficient Water and Sewer Service. Unless prohibited by law, new ADUs are prohibited if the public works director or designee determines the surrounding residential neighborhood has insufficient water or sewer service. The public works director shall maintain a document detailing the known areas in the city with insufficient water or sewer service and the map shall be posted on the city's website and shall be promptly made available to the public upon request.
The public works director shall update the document periodically.
C. Impact Fees.
1. No impact fee shall be imposed on any ADU less than 750 square feet in size.
2. For ADUs 750 square feet or greater, impact fees shall be charged proportionately in relation to the square footage of the primary dwelling.
3. All applicable public service and applicable recreation impact fees shall be paid prior to occupancy in accordance with California Government Code Sections 66000 et seq. and 66012 et seq.
4. For purposes of this section, "impact fee" shall have the same meaning as set forth in California Government Code Section 66324.
D. Connection Fees/Capacity Charges.
1. An ADU shall not be considered to be a new residential use for purposes of calculating connection fees or capacity charges for utilities, including for water and sewer service, unless the ADU is being constructed with a new single- family dwelling. A JADU shall not be considered a separate or new dwelling unit.
2. For an ADU contained within a single-family dwelling meeting the requirements of Section 17.33.080.A(1), above, the city shall not impose a connection fee or capacity charge, or require a new or separate utility connection between the ADU and the utility, unless the unit is being constructed with a new single-family dwelling. For all other ADUs, the city shall charge a connection fee or capacity charge that is proportionate to the burden of the proposed ADU based on the size of the unit or number of plumbing fixtures.
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17.33.100 - Separate conveyance.
Except as permitted by California Government Code section 66341, an ADU may not be separately sold or conveyed.
SECTION 3. Environmental Compliance. The City Council finds and determines that this Ordinance is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21080.17, which provides that CEQA does not apply to an ordinance to implement State ADU law.
SECTION 4. Inconsistencies. Any provision of the Blythe Municipal Code or appendices thereto inconsistent with the provisions of this Ordinance, to the extent of such inconsistencies and no further, is hereby repealed or modified to that extent necessary to affect the provisions of this Ordinance.
SECTION 5. Severability. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion of this Ordinance is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by the decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not attect the valıdity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance. The City Council of the City of Blythe nereby declares that it would have adopted this Ordinance and each section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, sentences, clauses, phrases, or portions be declared invalid or unconstitutional.
SECTION 6. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days after its final passage. Upon the effective date of this ordinance, Urgency Ordinance No. 939- 25-U shall be of no further force and effect.
SECTION 7. Certification. The City Clerk shall certify to the passage and adoption of this Ordinance and shall cause the same to be published or posted in the manner required by law.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this day of , 2025, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Joseph DeConinck
Mayor
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ATTEST:
Mallory Crecelius
City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Brittany E. Roberto
City Attorney
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THAT'S FIRST
CITY OF BLYTHE
Blythe CITY COUNCIL MEETING
ALLISHED STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: May 13, 2025
SUBJECT: Revocation of Business License Issued to Fortune Five Properties LLC dba Econo Lodge-Blythe
PRESENTED BY: Christa Elms, Finance Director
PREPARED BY: Christa Elms, Finance Director
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council conduct a public hearing and then provide direction regarding the revocation of the business license issued to Fortune Five Properties LLC dba Econo Lodge-Blythe. If the City Council desires to revoke the business license, it is recommended that the Council adopt the following resolution:
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-008 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, REVOKING THE BUSINESS LICENSE (BL-10876) ISSUED TO FORTUNE FIVE PROPERTIES LLC DBA ECONO LODGE-BLYTHE, LOCATED AT 903 W. HOBSONWAY, BLYTHE, CA 92225 FISCAL IMPACT: Tax revenue in an amount of ten percent (10%) on gross rents for occupancy of rooms.
BACKGROUND: The City issued a business license (BL-10876) to Fortune Five Properties LLO dba Econo Lodge-Blythe ("Econo Lodge"), located at 903 W. Hobsonway, Blythe, CA 92225, on November 18, 2019. Most recently, Econo Lodge paid its license fees for the 2025 calendar year on January 1, 2025.
Since 2020, the City has encountered issues with Econo Lodge regarding consistent and timely reporting and payment of its Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT). In August 2024, the City issued a notice of intent to revoke Econo Lodge's business license in connection with Econo Lodge's failure to report and pay TOT in July 2023, August 2023, September 2023, November 2023, December 2023, and for all of 2024. In September 2024, the City, Econo Lodge, and the owner of Econo Lodge, Noble Zubaid, entered into a Settlement Agreement. Pursuant to the Settlement Agreement, Econo Lodge and Mr. Zubaid agreed to make a lump sum payment of the total arrearage, including interest and penalties, no later than October 31, 2024. Econo Lodge and Mr.
Zubaid also agreed to a biweekly reporting period for a minimum of 12 months, through at least September 30, 2025, until such time as the City's tax administrator advises Econo Lodge and Mr.
Zubaid that the biweekly reporting period is no longer required. Pursuant to the Settlement Agreement, Econo Lodge and Mr. Zubaid agreed that if Econo Lodge and Mr. Zubaid fail to comply with the reporting and payment requirements, the City would provide a new notice of intent to revoke the business license and set the matter for a hearing before the City Council.
Econo Lodge and Mr. Zubaid made the lump sum payment of the total arrearage, interest and -15
penalties in accordance with the terms of the Settlement Agreement on October 25, 2024. Econo Lodge and Mr. Zubaid also initially complied with the biweekly reporting requirements. However, Econo Lodge and Mr. Zubaid have been in breach of the terms of the Settlement Agreement since February 15, 2025. Below is a table showing the reporting period, deadline for submitting returns and remittances, whether Econo Lodge met the deadline, and whether the payment was honored by the bank.
Reporting Period Deadline to Submit Did Econo Lodge Was Econo Lodge's Returns and Remittances Meet the Deadline? Payment Honored by the Bank?
10/1/24-10/15/24 11/1/24 Yes Yes
10/16/24-10/31/24 11/15/24 Yes Yes
11/1/24-11/15/24 12/1/24 Yes Yes
11/16/24-11/30/24 12/15/24 Yes Yes
12/1/24-12/15/24 1/1/25 Yes Yes
12/16/24-12/31/24 1/15/25 Yes Yes
1/1/25-1/15/25 2/1/25 Yes No
1/16/25-1/31/25 2/15/25 No N/A - no payment made
2/1/25-2/15/25 3/1/25 Yes No
2/16/25-2/28/25 3/15/25 No N/A - no payment made
3/1/25-3/15/25 4/1/25 No N/A - no payment made
3/16/25-3/31/25 4/15/25 No N/A - no payment made
4/1/25-4/15/25 5/1/25 No N/A - no payment made
As outlined in the table above, the last valid TOT payment the City received from Econo Lodge was for the period of December 16, 2024 through December 31, 2024.
Section 5.02.330 of the Blythe Municipal Code provides the authority for the City Council to revoke an existing business license, as follows:
The city council may suspend, revoke, withdraw or discontinue any license granted under the provisions of this chapter whenever it has reason to believe that the business conducted thereunder by the licensee, his, their or its servants or employees, is a nuisance, a menace to public health, or detrimental to the peace and morals of the city, or that violations of the laws of the state or the city have been committed or are being permitted to be committed upon the premises where such business is being conducted. Such suspension, revocation, withdrawal or discontinuance shall be by resolution of the city council.
STAFF REPORT: TOT reporting and remitting requirements are set forth in Chapter 3.20 of the Blythe Municipal Code.
Section 3.20.050 of the Blythe Municipal Code outlines the duties of hotel and motel operators in the City as follows:
3.20.050 - Operator's duties.
Each operator shall collect the tax imposed by this chapter to the same extent and at the same time as the rent is collected from every transient. The amount of tax shall be separately stated from the -15
amount of the rent charged, and each transient shall receive a receipt for payment from the operator. No operator of a hotel shall advertise or state in any manner, whether directly or indirectly, that the tax or any part thereof will be assumed or absorbed by the operator, or that it will not be added to the rent, or that, if added, any part will be refunded, except in the manner provided in Section 3.20.120.
Section 3.20.070 of the Blythe Municipal Code outlines the requirements relating to reporting and remitting TOT as follows:
3.20.070 - Reporting and remitting.
A. Each operator who has obtained a transient occupancy registration certificate as of the date that the ordinance codified in this section becomes effective, shall, on or before the last day of the month following the close of each calendar quarter, or any shorter reporting period which may be established by the tax administrator, as defined in Section 3.20.020, file a return with the tax administrator, on forms provided by him, reporting the total rents charged and received and the amount of tax collected for transient occupancy. At the time the return is filed, the full amount of the tax collected shall be paid to the tax administrator. The tax administrator may establish other reporting periods for any certificate holder or may require a deposit or bond for any certificate holder if he deems it necessary in order to insure collection of the tax, and he may require further information in the return. Returns and payments are due immediately upon cessations for any reason. All taxes collected by the operator shall be held in trust for the account of the city until payment thereof is made to the tax administrator.
B. Each operator who has obtained a transient occupancy registration certificate after the effective date of the ordinance codified in this section shall file a return, on or before the last day of the month following the close of each calendar month or at the close of any shorter reporting period which may be established by the tax administrator, as defined in Section 3.20.020, to the tax administrator, on forms provided by him, of the total rents charged and received and the amount of tax collected for transient occupancy. At the time the return is filed, the full amount of the tax collected shall be remitted to the tax administrator. The tax administrator may establish other reporting periods for any certificate holder or may require a cash deposit bond for any certificate holder if he deems it necessary in order to insure collection of tax, and he may require further information in the return. The return and payments are due immediately upon cessation of business for any reason. All taxes collected by operators pursuant to this section shall be held in trust for the account of the city until payment thereof is made to the tax administrator.
Returns and tax collection remittances shall be either:
1. Postmarked by the United States Postal Service on or before the twenty-fifth day of the month it is due; or
2. Deposited in the city finance office by five p.m. on or before the last business day of the month it is due.
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Section 3.20.080 of the Blythe Municipal Code outlines penalties and interest for late payment of TOT as follows:
3.20.080 - Penalties and interest.
A. Original Delinquency. Any operator who fails to remit any tax imposed by this chapter within the time required shall pay a penalty of ten percent of the amount of the tax in addition to the amount of the tax.
B. Continued Delinquency. Any operator who fails to remit any delinquent remittance on or before a period of thirty days following the date on which the remittance first became delinquent shall pay a second delinquency penalty of ten percent of the amount of the tax in addition to the amount of the tax and the ten percent penalty first imposed.
C. Fraud. If the tax administrator, as defined in Section 3.20.020, determines that the nonpayment of any remittance due under this chapter is due to fraud, a penalty of twenty-five percent of the amount of the tax shall be added thereto in addition to the penalties stated in subsections A and B of this section.
D. Interest. In addition to the penalties imposed, any operator who fails to remit any tax imposed by this chapter shall pay interest at the rate of one-half of one percent per month or fraction thereof on the amount of the tax, exclusive of penalties, from the date on which the remittance first became delinquent until paid.
E. Penalties Merged With Tax. Every penalty imposed, and such interest as accrues under the provisions of this section, shall become a part of the tax required to be paid by this chapter.
Pursuant to Section 3.20.050 of the Blythe Municipal Code, TOT is required to be collected by hotel and motel operators from every transient occupant of their establishment at the time the payment of the hotel or motel room rent is collected. That money is required to be held by the hotel/motel operator, in trust, for the Blythe taxpayers.
Econo Lodge's failure to remit TOT funds held in trust violates Econo Lodge's duties as an operator of a motel as described in Section 3.20.050 of the Blythe Municipal Code. It is also a violation of the reporting and remitting requirements set forth in Section 3.20.070 of the Blythe Municipal Code. For several years, Econo Lodge has consistently failed to make the TOT payment on time, and penalties and interest have continued to accrue, in violation of Section 3.20.080 of the Blythe Municipal Code and of the terms of the Settlement Agreement.
As outlined above, pursuant to Section 5.02.330 of the Blythe Municipal Code, the City Council has the authority to revoke a business license "whenever it has reason to believe that the business conducted under the licensee, his, or its servants or employees, is a nuisance, a menace to public health, or detrimental to the peace and morals of the city, or that violations of the laws of the state or the city have been committed or are being permitted to be committed upon the premises where such business is located."
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The City mailed Econo Lodge the City's written Notice of Intent to Revoke Econo Lodge's business license via certified mail on April 10, 2025. The Notice was delivered by certified mail on April 14, 2025. As of the writing of this staff report, no response or payments have been received from Econo Lodge.
Staff recommends that the City Council conduct the public hearing and then provide direction regarding the revocation of the business license issued to Econo Lodge. If the City Council desires to revoke the business license, it is recommended that the Council adopt Resolution No. 2025-008.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Resolution No. 2025-008
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RESOLUTION NO. 2025-008
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, REVOKING THE BUSINESS
LICENSE (BL-10876) ISSUED TO FORTUNE FIVE
PROPERTIES LLC DBA ECONO LODGE-BLYTHE,
LOCATED AT 903 W. HOBSONWAY, BLYTHE, CA 92225
The City Council of the City of Blythe hereby finds and declares as follows:
WHEREAS, on November 18, 2019, the City issued a business license (BL-10876) to Fortune Five Properties LLC dba Econo Lodge-Blythe ("Econo Lodge"), located at 903 W. Hobsonway, Blythe, CA, 92225, for the operation of a hotel/motel; and WHEREAS, on January 1, 2025, Econo Lodge paid its annual license fees for calendar year 2025; and
WHEREAS, as a hotel/motel operator in the City, Econo Lodge is subject to the requirements set forth in Chapter 3.20 of the Blythe Municipal Code (BMC) relating to the Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT); and
WHEREAS, Section 3.20.070 of the BMC provides:
Each operator shall collect the tax imposed by this chapter to the same extent and at the same time as the rent is collected from every transient.
The amount of tax shall be separately stated from the amount of the rent charged, and each transient shall receive a receipt for payment from the operator. No operator of a hotel shall advertise or state in any manner, whether directly or indirectly, that the tax or any part thereof will be assumed or absorbed by the operator, or that it will not be added to the rent, or that, if added, any part will be refunded, except in the manner provided in Section
3.20.120; and
WHEREAS, Section 3.20.070 of the BMC provides:
A. Each operator who has obtained a transient occupancy registration certificate as of the date that the ordinance codified in this section becomes effective, shall, on or before the last day of the month following the close of each calendar quarter, or any shorter reporting period which may be established by the tax administrator, as defined in Section 3.20.020, file a return with the tax administrator, on forms provided by him, reporting the total rents charged and received and the amount of tax collected for transient occupancy. At the time the return is filed, the full amount of the tax collected shall be paid to the tax administrator. The tax administrator may establish other reporting periods for any certificate holder or may require a deposit or bond for Resolution No. 2025-008