Agenda packet — Cathedral City City Council, February 11, 2026

CITY COUNCIL
PACKET

Study Session 3:00 PM
Regular Meeting 5:30 PM

Wednesday, February 11, 2026

City Council Chambers
68-700 Avenida Lalo Guerrero
Cathedral City, CA 92234

MAYOR
Raymond Gregory

CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS

Mayor Pro Tem
Ernesto Gutierrez

Councilmember
Nancy Ross

Councilmember
Rita Lamb

Councilmember
Christina Gordon

STUDY SESSION 3:00 PM

Normally no action is taken on Study Session Items, however, the City Council reserves the right to give specific policy direction and take specific action as necessary.

Presentations will be limited to 10 minutes unless other provisions are made in advance.

CALL TO ORDER

ROLL CALL

AGENDA FINALIZATION
At this time the City Council may announce any items being pulled from the agenda or continued to another date.

1. PUBLIC COMMENTS

This is the opportunity for members of the public to comment on any items not appearing on the regular agenda. Because of restrictions contained in California Law, the City Council may not discuss or act on any item not on the agenda but may briefly respond to statements made or ask a question for clarification. The Mayor may also request a brief response from staff to questions raised during public comment or may request a matter be agendized for a future meeting. Public

2 Comment will be limited to three (3) minutes.

2. STUDY SESSION

A. SunLine Presentation
Recommendation: This is a presentation only, there is no formal action required.

3. CLOSED SESSION

A. Conference with Labor Negotiator Pursuant to Government Code 54957.6

Labor Negotiator: Algeria Ford, Assistant City Attorney and Asusena Soren, Human Resources Manager

Employee Organizations: American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) and Cathedral City Firefighters Association (CCFA)
Recommendation: There is no recommendation.

B. Conference with Legal Counsel – Anticipated Litigation Pursuant to Government Code section 54956.9(d)(2)
Significant Exposure to Litigation
Number of Matters: One (1) – Zenergy / Old Landfill
Recommendation: There is no recommendation.

RECESS

REGULAR MEETING - 5:30 PM

CALL TO ORDER

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

INVOCATION (MOMENT OF REFLECTION)

ROLL CALL

AGENDA FINALIZATION
At this time the City Council may announce any items being pulled from the agenda or continued to another date.

1. PUBLIC COMMENTS

3 2. COUNCIL REPORTS

This is an opportunity for each member of the City Council to report on any conferences they attend, local events or make any other comments they may have.

3. CONSENT AGENDA

The following Consent Calendar items are expected to be routine and noncontroversial. They will be acted upon by the City Council at one time without discussion. Any Council Member, Staff Member, or Citizen may request removal of an item from the Consent Calendar for discussion.

A. Waive Full Reading of Ordinances on Agenda
Recommendation: Waive Full Reading of Ordinances on Agenda

B. Approval of the January 28, 2026 Regular Meeting minutes.

Recommendation: To approve the Regular Meeting minutes of January 28, 2026.

C. Commissioner/Committee Member Attendance Record
Recommendation: Receive and File

D. Notice of Completion for the Dream Homes Park (aka Esperanza Park):

Perimeter Wall Project (C07021)
Recommendation: To accept and approve the Dream Homes Park:

Perimeter Wall Project (C07021) as complete; and authorize the City Manager to execute and file a Notice of Completion (NOC) with the Riverside County Recorder’s Office; and authorize the release of retention funds to Urban Habitat upon expiration of the Notice of Completion.

E. Notice of Completion the Dream Homes Park Project (aka Esperanza Park) (C07021)
Recommendation: To accept and approve the Dream Homes Park Project (C07021) as complete; and authorize the City Manager to execute and file a Notice of Completion (NOC) with the Riverside County Recorder’s Office; and authorize the release of retention funds to Urban Habitat upon expiration of the Notice of Completion.

4. PUBLIC HEARINGS

A. Zoning Ordinance Amendment 25-0005 - An amendment to Chapter

9.114 (Accessory Dwelling Units) of Title 9 Planning and Zoning of the Cathedral City Municipal Code for consistency with new State legislation regulating accessory dwelling units.

Recommendation: Continue the public hearing for Zoning Ordinance Amendment 25-0005 to the City Council meeting of February 25, 2026.

4 5. LEGISLATIVE ACTIONS

A. Employment Agreement for City Manager
Recommendation: To approve an employment agreement with Andrew Firestine for the position of City Manager

6. DISCUSSION ON FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
This is an opportunity for members of the City Council to request that, and for the City Council to discuss whether, one or more items should be added to the agenda of a future regular or special City Council meeting. To comply with the Brown Act, discussion should be limited to whether to add the item(s), and direction given to the City Manager regarding scheduling and prioritization of the item(s).

7. CLOSED SESSION

ADJOURNMENT

NOTES TO THE PUBLIC

The City of Cathedral City complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. If you require special assistance to participate in this meeting, please call the City Clerk’s Office at (760) 770-0322 at least 48 hours prior to the meeting.

If you desire to address the City Council during the meeting, please complete a Request to Speak Form available at the entrance and present it to the City Clerk. Speakers will be called upon at the appropriate time.

When providing public comment during a Council Meeting, California Law may require speakers to disclose a campaign contribution made to an elected or appointed City Councilmember if speaking on certain projects or contracts to be acted upon by the City Council. Please use the following link to determine whether you have a legal obligation to disclose your campaign contribution: https://www.cathedralcity.gov/transparency

Written Comments will be accepted until 2:00 p.m. on the day of the meeting. Written comments may be submitted via email, letter, or other forms of written communication.

To email comments please email to [email protected].

Hard copies of written comments and any other document will be provided to the City Council and made available for the general public to review. All written comments received by the submission deadline will be made part of the official record. The meeting minutes will include: The name of the individual submitting the comment and a brief statement summarizing the content of the comment.

Submitted Written Comments will not be read into the record during the meeting.

Staff Report
City Council
Item No. 2.A
Meeting Date: February 11, 2026
From: Christina Burton, City Clerk
Title: SunLine Presentation
RECOMMENDATION:

This is a presentation only, there is no formal action required.

BACKGROUND:

SunLine Transit Agency provides public transportation services and alternative fuel solutions to meet mobility needs of the Coachella Valley.

DISCUSSION:

SunLine’s CEO, Mona Babauta, will provide a presentation and discuss SunLine Transit Agency’s Comprehensive Operational Analysis (COA) Initiative.

FISCAL IMPACT:

There is no fiscal impact with this item.

FIVE-YEAR STRATEGIC PLAN:

Not applicable
ATTACHMENTS:

None
1 1
3 2
3 Staff Report
City Council
Item No. 3.A
Meeting Date: February 11, 2026
From: Asusena Soren, Human Resources Manager
Title: Conference with Labor Negotiator Pursuant to Government Code 54957.6
Labor Negotiator: Algeria Ford, Assistant City Attorney and Asusena Soren, Human Resources Manager
Employee Organizations: American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) and Cathedral City Firefighters Association (CCFA)
1 Staff Report
City Council
Item No. 3.B
Meeting Date: February 11, 2026
From: Eric S. Vail, City Attorney
Title: Conference with Legal Counsel – Anticipated Litigation Pursuant to Government Code section 54956.9(d)(2)
Significant Exposure to Litigation
Number of Matters: One (1) – Zenergy / Old Landfill
1 CITY COUNCIL

MINUTES
Study Session 3:00 PM
Regular Meeting 5:30 PM
Wednesday, January 28, 2026
City Council Chambers
68-700 Avenida Lalo Guerrero
Cathedral City, CA 92234

CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Raymond Gregory called the Study Session portion of the meeting to order at 3:00 p.m.

ROLL CALL
Council Present:

Raymond Gregory, Mayor
Ernesto Gutierrez, Mayor Pro Tem
Rita Lamb, Councilmember
Nancy Ross, Councilmember
Christina Gordon, Councilmember

AGENDA FINALIZATION
There were no changes to the agenda.

1. PUBLIC COMMENTS
Robert McCormick thanked Councilmember Gordon for her service and expressed the need for a policy regarding whistleblowing in the Police and Fire Departments.

2. STUDY SESSION
A. Cathedral City Community Center Feasibility Study Update by Group 4 Architecture
Recommendation: To receive an update and presentation on the Cathedral City Community Center Feasibility Study and provide input and direction on the preferred site and building program options.

Group 4 Architecture provided an update on the Cathedral City Community Center Feasibility Study. The following points were presented:
1 Schedule and Workplan
Project Engagement
Building and Site Program
Site Options
Site and Program Strategies
Financial Analysis
oCapital Cost
oOperational Cost
Discussion and Evaluation
Next Steps
The City Council provided feedback and asked clarifying questions, which were responded to by Group 4 Architecture and staff.

Public Comments:

Danny Lee provided feedback and options for the Council to consider.

The City Council emphasized the importance of considering financial capacity and long-term operating costs prior to selecting a site.

Anne Ambrose, Interim City Manager, stated that staff is seeking Council direction on a preferred location, after which more in-depth funding strategies will be developed for consideration.

The Council directed staff to explore financing options and continue evaluating the old Burlington building site, old Walmart building site, the City-owned library site, and the City-owned site near the Salvation Army.

This item was a presentation only, and no formal action was taken by the City Council.

B. New City Website Reveal
Recommendation: For presentation purposes only.

Ryan Hunt, Communications and Events Manager, and Matthew Levy, Enterprise Systems Analyst, provided an overview of the city website reveal, including the need for the update, the project team, completed work, key features such as the Service Finder, additional improvements, Google search considerations, and the “Two Sites, One City” approach.

The City Council asked clarifying questions, which were responded to by staff.

Public Comments:

Danny Lee stated that the Council bios on the website need to be updated to make sure the information is accurate.

This item was a presentation only, and there was no formal action taken by the City Council.

C. Regional Climate Action Plan Update and Cathedral City Next Steps 2 Recommendation: For the City Council to receive a presentation providing an overview of the Regional Comprehensive Climate Action Plan document and provide direction to staff to begin the process of updating Cathedral City’s Climate Action Plan utilizing applicable regional data and strategies.

This item was heard first under the legislative portion of the Regular meeting.

Luis Perez, Analyst l, provided a presentation on the Regional Climate Action Plan (CCAP) and Cathedral City Next Steps. The following points were presented:

Background
California Air Resources Board
Cathedral City Responsibilities
Regional Comprehensive Climate Action Plan CVAG
What the Regional Plan Tells Us About Cathedral City
How the Regional CCAP Helps Cathedral City Update its Climate Action Plan
Why An Update is Needed
Next Steps
The City Council asked clarifying questions, which were responded to by staff.

This item was a presentation only, and there was no formal action taken by the City Council.

3. CLOSED SESSION
A. Public Employees Appointment Pursuant to Government Code Section 54957(b)
One (1) Position
Title: City Manager
Recommendation: There is no recommendation.

B. Conference with Labor Negotiator Pursuant to Government Code 54957.6
Labor Negotiator: Algeria Ford, Assistant City Attorney and Asusena Soren, Human Resources Manager
Employee Organizations: American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) and Cathedral City Firefighters Association (CCFA)
Recommendation: There is no recommendation.

City Attorney Eric Vail announced that the City Council will meet in Closed Session to discuss the items listed on the agenda.
3 The City Council recessed to Closed Session at 4:57 p.m. and reported out at the end of the Regular meeting.

RECESS
REGULAR MEETING – 5:30 PM

CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Raymond Gregory called the Regular Meeting to order at 5:40 p.m.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Councilmember Christina Gordon led the Pledge of Allegiance.

INVOCATION (MOMENT OF REFLECTION)
Councilmember Rita Lamb offered the Invocation.

ROLL CALL
Council Present:

Raymond Gregory, Mayor
Ernesto Gutierrez, Mayor Pro Tem
Rita Lamb, Councilmember
Nancy Ross, Councilmember
Christina Gordon, Councilmember

AGENDA FINALIZATION
Anne Ambrose, Interim City Manager, announced that item 2C. from the Study Session portion of the meeting will be heard first under legislative on the Regular agenda.

1. PUBLIC COMMENTS
Janet Ream expressed concern with the ongoing cannabis smell issue.

2. COUNCIL REPORTS
Councilmember Christina Gordon reported on the following:

Her meeting with Nick Carnevale
Her meeting with applicants who applied for the District Three Council seat Her tour of the Senior Center Food Bank
Her attendance at Dinner with Patsi
Grocery Outlet food drive
Councilmember Nancy Ross reported on the following:
Her work with the Golden State Manufactured-Home Owners League Her work for the Animal Campus Outdoor Field Officers Event Her participation in the City Manager interviews
4 Her attendance at Dinner with Patsi
Her attendance at the Starbucks ribbon cutting
Her attendance at the American Express Golf Tournament Her attendance at the Sinfonica de Mineria PS Philharmonic event Her preparation for upcoming meetings
Her attendance at an upcoming event for Congressman Ruiz Her attendance at the upcoming FIND Food Bank event
Will attend FIIND Food Bank
Councilmember Rita Lamb reported on the following:
Ribbon cutting Starbucks
She thanked Economic Development for the IGNITE Series Her attendance at Yoga in the Amphitheater
She thanked PACE Commissioner Antonio Baciu and former Commissioner Gary Marshall
The upcoming Fire Department Badge Pinning Ceremony
The Mountains Conservancy’s Activities
Mayor Pro Tem Ernesto Gutierrez reported on the following:
His attendance at the Starbucks ribbon cutting
His driving tour of his district
His attendance at the American Express Golf Tournament His attendance at the upcoming Visit Greater Palm Springs meeting The upcoming Development Code Update Steering Committee meeting The upcoming Tastes and Sounds
The upcoming City Council Annual Goal Setting Workshop The upcoming California Cities Riverside County Division meeting Mayor Raymond Gregory reported on the following:
His attendance at the Starbucks ribbon cutting
His attendance at the Coachella Valley Association of Governments Homelessness Committee
His attendance at the Sinfonica de Mineria PS Philharmonic event His attendance at the Riverside County Transportation Commission Budget and Implementation Meeting
His attendance at the upcoming Riverside County Transportation Commission Annual Workshop at the DoubleTree in Cathedral City

3. CONSENT AGENDA
A. Waive Full Reading of Ordinances on Agenda
Recommendation: Waive Full Reading of Ordinances on Agenda M.O. 2026-12
B. Commissioner/Committee Member Attendance Record
Recommendation: Receive and File
5 M.O. 2026-13
C. Approval of the Special Meeting minutes of January 7, 2026, January 20, 2026, January 21, 2026 and the Regular Meeting minutes of January 14, 2026.

Recommendation: To approve the Special Meeting minutes of January 7, 2026, January 20, 2026, January 21, 2026 and the Regular Meeting minutes of January 14, 2026.

M.O. 2026-14
D. Council Appointments to Various Local Agencies
Recommendation: To review the list of Agency Assignments, ratify the appointments and direct the City Clerk to notify the agencies of the respective appointments.

M.O. 2026-15
E. Approval of the Parks and Community Events Commission Support of the Esperanza Park Community Health Fair – 2026
Recommendation: To approve $500 from the Parks and Community Events Commission (PACE) FY 2025–2026 PACE Small Events Budget to support the Esperanza Park Community Health Fair event for February 2026.

M.O. 2026-16
F. Reject Bids for the construction of Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) Cycle 11A, 18 Unsignalized Intersection Upgrades Project (C08754)
Recommendation: To reject all bids received for the construction of the Highway Safety Improvements Program (HSIP) Cycle 11A, 18 Unsignalized Intersection Upgrades Project (C08754); and direct staff to readvertise for construction bids to ensure compliance with fair and competitive bidding practices.

M.O. 2026-17
G. Adopt a Resolution accepting the public improvements and certifying completion of private improvements in a portion of amended Tract No. 31774, "Campanile"' and releasing securities, WH Campanile 141, LLC:

Developer.

Recommendation: For the City Council adopt the Resolution accepting the public improvements and certifying completion of private improvements in a portion of Amended Tract No. 31774, authorizing the release of improvement agreement securities as described in the Resolution, and authorizing the Director of Public Works to file a Notice of Completion for the work.

Councilmember Christina Gordon recused herself from this item.

6 Reso 2026-04
H. Second Reading – Short-Term Rental Facilitator Reporting (SB 346) – C.C.M.C. Section 5.96.090
Recommendation: To provide second reading by title only and adopt an ordinance adding Section 5.96.090 to Chapter 5.96 of the Cathedral City Municipal Code to implement Senate Bill 346, the Short-Term Rental Facilitator Act of 2025.

Ord 895
I. Zoning Ordinance Amendment 25-0001 – A proposal of King’s Schools of the Desert to amend the Zoning Ordinance to allow schools in the RR (Resort Residential) zone district, subject to a conditional use permit.

Recommendation: To provide second reading, by title only, and adopt an ordinance approving Zoning Ordinance Amendment 25-0001 amending Section 9.24.030.B of Chapter 9.24 of Title 9 of the Cathedral City Municipal Code to add schools as a conditionally permitted use in the Resort Residential district.

Ord 896
A motion was made by Councilmember Lamb and seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Gutierrez to approve the Consent Agenda with Councilmember Gordon recused from item 3G.

Items 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, 3E, 3F, 3H and 3I
RESULT: PASS
MOVER: Rita Lamb, Councilmember
SECONDER: Ernesto Gutierrez, Mayor Pro Tem
AYES: Ross, Gregory, Gutierrez, Lamb, Gordon
Item 3G
RESULT: PASS
MOVER: Rita Lamb, Councilmember
SECONDER: Ernesto Gutierrez, Mayor Pro Tem
AYES: Ross, Gregory, Gutierrez, Lamb
RECUSED: Gordon

4. PUBLIC HEARINGS
There were no Public Hearings.

5. LEGISLATIVE ACTIONS
A. Traffic Signal Head Backplates Change Order Request for the HSIP Cycle 11C - Citywide Traffic Signal Hardware Upgrades Project (C08756)
Recommendation: To approve Change Order No. 1 to the contract with Econolite Systems, Inc., in the amount of $107,129.84; for the construction of HSIP 11C, Citywide Traffic Signal Hardware Upgrades Project (C08756); 7 and, authorize a budget adjustment to the construction budget for the project, in the amount of $47,875.11; and, authorize the City Engineer to execute the change order and issue the notice to proceed for this work.

M.O. 2026-18
A motion was made by Councilmember Lamb and seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Gutierrez to approve Change Order No. 1 to the contract with Econolite Systems, Inc., in the amount of $107,129.84; for the construction of HSIP 11C, Citywide Traffic Signal Hardware Upgrades Project (C08756); and, authorize a budget adjustment to the construction budget for the project, in the amount of $47,875.11; and, authorize the City Engineer to execute the change order and issue the notice to proceed for this work.

RESULT: PASS
MOVER: Rita Lamb, Councilmember
SECONDER: Ernesto Gutierrez, Mayor Pro Tem
AYES: Ross, Gregory, Gutierrez, Lamb, Gordon
B. Award Service Agreements for the Construction of the Cathedral City, Mountain Cathedrals Entryway Monument Project (C02601)
Recommendation:

Staff is presenting two (2) alternative recommendations for City Council consideration.

Option 1 (Recommendation for Solar Powered System)
To:
Award a service agreement to Hoffman Steel Fabrication, Inc. in the amount of $69,431.00 for the fabrication and installation of the Cathedral City, Mountain Cathedrals Entryway Monument Project (C02601);
Award a service agreement to Westcon Construction Services, Inc. in the amount of $24,500.00 for construction of the foundation for the Mountain Cathedrals Entryway Monument;
Approve the proposal from Hot Purple Energy in the amount of $6,500.00 to upgrade the existing solar system and install electrical components; and
Approve a fifteen percent (15%) contingency in the amount of $15,064.65 for unforeseen construction costs;
Approve a budget amendment to Gas Tax (50%) and Measure A (50%) in the amount of $9,599.91 to establish a combined construction budget totaling $115,495.65 for the Cathedral City Mountain Cathedrals Entryway Monument Project (C02601); Authorize the City Manager to execute the service agreements; and, Authorize the City Engineer to execute the proposal with Hot Purple Energy, request bonds and insurances and issue notices to proceed.

Option 2 (Recommendation for Hard-Wired System)
To:
Award a service agreement to Hoffman Steel Fabrication, Inc. in the amount of $69,431.00 for the fabrication and installation of the 8 Cathedral City, Mountain Cathedrals Entryway Monument Project (C02601); and,
Award a service agreement to Westcon Construction Services, Inc. in the amount of $24,500.00 for construction of the foundation for the Mountain Cathedrals Entryway Monument; and,
Approve the proposal from Towers Electric in the amount of $24,582.15 for installation of underground conduits across East Palm Canyon Drive; and,
Approve the proposal from Rhythm Electric LLC, in the amount of $5,050.00 for installation of power and electrical components for the mountain Cathedrals Entryway Monument; and,
Approve a fifteen percent (15%) contingency in the amount of $18,534.47 for unforeseen construction costs; and,
Approve a budget amendment to the Gas Tax (50%) and Measure A (50%) in the amount of $36,201.88 to establish a combined construction budget totaling $142,097.62 for the Cathedral City, Mountain Cathedrals Entryway Monument Project (C02601); and, Authorize the City Manager to execute the service agreements; and, Authorize the City Engineer to execute proposals with Towers Electric and Rhythm Electric Inc., request bonds and insurances and issue notices to proceed.

M.O. 2026-19
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Gutierrez and seconded by Councilmember Lamb to approve Option 2 (Recommendation for Hard- Wired System):
Award a service agreement to Hoffman Steel Fabrication, Inc. in the amount of $69,431.00 for the fabrication and installation of the Cathedral City, Mountain Cathedrals Entryway Monument Project (C02601); and,
Award a service agreement to Westcon Construction Services, Inc. in the amount of $24,500.00 for construction of the foundation for the Mountain Cathedrals Entryway Monument; and,
Approve the proposal from Towers Electric in the amount of $24,582.15 for installation of underground conduits across East Palm Canyon Drive; and,
Approve the proposal from Rhythm Electric LLC, in the amount of $5,050.00 for installation of power and electrical components for the mountain Cathedrals Entryway Monument; and,
Approve a fifteen percent (15%) contingency in the amount of $18,534.47 for unforeseen construction costs; and,
Approve a budget amendment to the Gas Tax (50%) and Measure A (50%) in the amount of $36,201.88 to establish a combined construction budget totaling $142,097.62 for the Cathedral City, Mountain Cathedrals Entryway Monument Project (C02601); and, Authorize the City Manager to execute the service agreements; and, Authorize the City Engineer to execute proposals with Towers Electric and Rhythm Electric Inc., request bonds and insurances and issue notices to proceed.
9 RESULT: PASS
MOVER: Ernesto Gutierrez, Mayor Pro Tem
SECONDER: Rita Lamb, Councilmember
AYES: Ross, Gregory, Gutierrez, Lamb, Gordon

6. DISCUSSION ON FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
There was no discussion on future agenda items.

7. CLOSED SESSION
City Attorney Eric Vail announced that the City Council met in Closed Session during the Study Session portion of the meeting, and there was no reportable action taken by the City Council.

ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Raymond Gregory adjourned the meeting at 7:03 p.m.

Mayor, City of Cathedral City City Clerk, City of Cathedral City 10 1

Staff Report
City Council
Item No. 3.D
Meeting Date: February 11, 2026
From: John A. Corella, Director of Public Works
Title: Notice of Completion for the Dream Homes Park (aka Esperanza Park):

Perimeter Wall Project (C07021)
RECOMMENDATION:

To accept and approve the Dream Homes Park: Perimeter Wall Project (C07021) as complete; and authorize the City Manager to execute and file a Notice of Completion (NOC) with the Riverside County Recorder’s Office; and authorize the release of retention funds to Urban Habitat upon expiration of the Notice of Completion.

BACKGROUND:

In December 2021, California State Parks awarded Cathedral City $8,498,000 in Statewide Park Program (SPP) Round 4 grant funds for the Dreams Homes Park Project (currently known as Esperanza Park. Note: California State Parks requires referencing the project as Dream Homes Park for grant purposes). Following the notice of award in February 2022, the city received authorization from California State Parks to proceed with design and construction of the project.

In June 2022, Verde Design, Inc. (Design Consultant) was awarded a design professional services agreement to prepare final design and engineering plans, contract bid documents and technical oversight for the construction of the project.

City staff, in coordination with the design consultant, determined that bidding the perimeter wall as a separate project was in the best interest of the city. This approach allowed the selected prime contractor to self-perform most of the work and reduced additional markup costs that would otherwise have resulted from subcontracting within the larger park project.

On October 11, 2023, the City Council approved a construction contract with Urban Habitat for construction of the perimeter wall in the amount of $795,750.73, together with a fifteen percent (15%) contingency in the amount of $119,362.61 for unforeseen construction costs, for a total construction budget of $915,113.34. The total construction budget was programmed to be fully funded by the SPP Round 4 grant.

The project included the construction of approximately 3,140 linear feet of six-foot (6-ft)-high 1 perimeter block wall along the west side of the park. The wall provides physical separation between the backyards of existing residences and park users, as required by the SPP grant application.

DISCUSSION:

Construction started on December 26, 2023, and was completed on September 3, 2025, concurrently with the completion of the park project.

City staff reviewed and inspected the block wall improvements and found the project was built in accordance with all contract requirements and therefore recommend the City Council accept the project as complete.

City Council acceptance is required to approve the project’s final contract amount and release retention funds. Retention funds are monies earned by the contractor withheld from progress payments pending satisfactory completion and final acceptance of the project.

Additionally, City Council acceptance of the project requires filing a Notice of Completion (NOC) with the Riverside County Recorder’s office. The NOC is a written notice issued by the owner of a project, or their agent, to notify concerned parties that all work on the project has been completed. This notice also sets the period, which is thirty-five (35) days from the date the NOC is filed, within which concerned parties may exercise their lien rights against one another. Once the thirty-five (35) day period has expired, and provided no claims or liens are received, the city can release retention funds.

City staff recommend that the City Council accept and approve the Dream Homes Park:

FISCAL IMPACT:

The funding source for the construction of the perimeter wall is the California State Parks Statewide Park Program Grant. The fiscal impact of the construction of the project is as follows:

Authorized Construction Funding
FISCAL
YEAR

DESCRIPTION GENERAL
LEDGER

ACCOUNT
CODES

PROJECT
CODE

AMOUNT ONE TIME
or

ONGOING
2023-2024
Capital Improvement
Project (CIP) – State
Parks Statewide Park
Program Grant
331-150-150-
156-8800-8802 C07021 $915,113.34 ONE TIME
2023-2024 Total $915,113.34
Final Construction Cost
A. Construction Contract (Urban Habitat)
2 The construction expenditures with Urban Habitat were in the amount of $809,907.67 which included the original construction contract and change orders in the amount of $14,156.94.

The total construction contract cost is summarized below.

Base Contract Amount (Urban Habitat) $795,750.73
Change Orders $14,156.94
Total Construction Contract Cost $809,907.67
Should there be no claims or discrepancies in the work completed, the final invoice (5% retention) in the amount of $40,465.38 will be released to Urban Habitat in thirty-five (35) days from the date the NOC is filed.

B. Additional Work - City Purchase Orders
In addition to Urban Habitat’s construction contract, the city authorized additional expenditures in the amount of $44,035.55 for perimeter wall–related work outside the scope of the contract. This work included the reconstruction and reconnection of portions of private property side walls that were removed due to the perimeter wall construction.

The final construction cost is $853,943.22 as summarized below:

Urban Habitat Construction Contract Cost $809,907.67
Additional Work - City Purchase Orders $44,035.55
Final Construction Cost $853,943.22
There is a remaining balance of $61,170.12 from the construction budget authorized for the by City Council in October 2023 as shown in the table below.

Authorized Construction Budget $915,113.34
Total Construction Cost ($853,943.22)
Remaining Construction Balance $61,170.12
The remaining construction balance from this Dream Homes Park- Perimeter Wall Project, will be applied to the Dream Homes Park Project CIP 7021 for additional park-related expenditures.

FIVE-YEAR STRATEGIC PLAN:

GOAL B: COMMUNITY INVESTMENT
Objective: Cathedral City roads, gateways, public spaces, and other city infrastructure are well planned, designed, constructed, and maintained
ATTACHMENTS:

1. Notice of Completion Urban Habitat- Dream Homes Park: Perimeter Wall. 3 (President of, Manager of, A partner of, Owner of, etc.)

RECORDING REQUESTED BY
AND WHEN RECORDED MAIL TO:

Name
Street
Address
City &
State
SPACE ABOVE THIS LINE FOR RECORDER’S USE ONLY

NOTICE OF COMPLETION
Notice is hereby given that:

1. The undersigned is owner or corporate officer of the owner of the interest or estate stated below in the property hereinafter described:

2. The full name of the owner is

3. The full address of the owner is

4. The nature of the interest or estate of the owner is in fee. (If other than fee, strike in Fee and insert, for example, purchaser under contract of purchase, or lessee)

5. The full names and full addresses of all persons, if any, who hold title with the undersigned as joint tenants or as tenants in common are:

NAMES ADDRESSES

6. A work of improvement on the property hereinafter described was completed on . The work done was:

7. The name of the contractor, if any, for such work of improvement was (If no contractor for work of improvement as a whole, insert none) (Date of Contract)

8. The property on which said work of improvement was completed is in the city of , County of , State of California, and is described as follows:

9. The street address of said property is
(If no street address has been officially assigned, insert none) Dated:

Signature of owner of corporate officer of owner
named in paragraph 2 or his agent

VERIFICATION
I, the undersigned, say: I am the the declarant of the foregoing notice of completion; I have read said notice of completion and know the contents thereof; the same is true of my own knowledge.

I declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct.

Executed on , 20 , at , California.
(Date of signature) (City where signed)
(Personal signature of the individual who is swearing that the contents of the notice of completion are true)

S R U PAGE SIZE DA MISC LONG RFD COPY
M A L 465 426 PCOR NCOR SMF NCHG
T: CTY UNI
EXAM
http://www/riversideacr.com/acr/forms/Notice%20of%Completion 06/22/2011 Anne V. Ambrose
Interim City Manager, City of Cathedral City

EXEMPT RECORDING FEES PURSUANT TO
CODE SECTION 6130 AND 2733
Anne V. Ambrose
Interim City Manager, City of Cathedral City
City of Cathedral City
Christina Burton, City Clerk
68700 Ave. Lalo Guerrero
Cathedral City
CA 92234
City of Cathedral City
68-700 Avenida Lalo Guerrero, Cathedral City, CA 92234
None
09/03/2025
Dream Homes Park: Perimeter Wall Project (C07021)
Urban Habitat
Cathedral City
Riverside Construction of 3,140 linear feet of
of six-foot (6 ft)-high perimeter block wall along the west side of Dream Homes Park (currently known as Esperanza Park).
02/11/2026
City Manager for the City of Cathedral City
26 Cathedral City
none
4 Staff Report
City Council
Item No. 3.E
Meeting Date: February 11, 2026
From: John A. Corella, Director of Public Works
Title: Notice of Completion the Dream Homes Park Project (aka Esperanza Park) (C07021)
RECOMMENDATION:

To accept and approve the Dream Homes Park Project (C07021) as complete; and authorize the City Manager to execute and file a Notice of Completion (NOC) with the Riverside County Recorder’s Office; and authorize the release of retention funds to Urban Habitat upon expiration of the Notice of Completion.

BACKGROUND:

In December 2021, California State Parks awarded Cathedral City $8,498,000 in Statewide Park Program (SPP) Round 4 grant funds for the Dream Homes Park Project (currently known as Esperanza Park. Note: California State Parks requires referencing the project as Dream Homes Park for grant purposes). Following the notice of award in February 2022, the city received authorization from California State Parks to proceed with design and construction of the project.

In June 2022 Verde Design, Inc. (Design Consultant) was awarded a Design Professional Services Agreement to prepare final design and engineering plans, contract bid documents and provide technical oversight during construction of the project.

In November 2023, the City Council approved a construction contract with Urban Habitat in the amount of $6,899,029.97 and authorized a contingency of $1,028,591.25, bringing the total authorized construction budget to $7,927,621.22 for the Dream Homes Park Project.

In December 2023, the construction contingency was increased by $144,938.48 with authorization by the City Council to purchase the restroom building which was procured and executed after the construction contract was awarded to Urban Habitat. This adjustment increased the project contingency to $1,173,529.73 and the total construction budget for Urban Habitat to $8,072,559.70 for the park project.

DISCUSSION:
1 Construction began on December 26, 2023, and was substantially completed on May 22, 2025, concurrent with the park opening ceremony. In accordance with the contract terms, Urban Habitat was subjected to a 90-day landscape maintenance period, as well as a separate punch-list completion period. Urban Habitat’s final working day, and completion date for the project was November 17, 2025 (due to claim resolution), as documented in the attached Notice of Completion (NOC).

City staff reviewed and inspected the park improvements and found the project was built in accordance with all contract requirements and therefore recommend City Council accept the project as complete.

Additionally, City Council acceptance of the project requires filing a NOC with the Riverside County Recorder’s office. The NOC is a written notice issued by the owner of a project, or their agent, to notify concerned parties that all work on the project has been completed. This notice also sets the period, which is thirty-five (35) days from the date the NOC is filed, within which concerned parties may exercise their lien rights against one another. Once the thirty- five (35) day period has expired, and provided no claims or liens are received, the city can release retention funds.

City staff recommend City Council accept and approve the Dream Homes Park Project (C07021) as complete; and Authorize the City Manager to execute and file a Notice of Completion with the Riverside County Recorder’s Office; and authorize the release of retention funds to Urban Habitat upon expiration of the Notice of Completion.

FISCAL IMPACT:

Several funding sources were authorized for the Dream Homes Park Project. A summary of all project funding sources is provided on the table below:

FISCAL
YEAR

DESCRIPTION GENERAL
LEDGER

ACCOUNT
CODES

PROJECT
CODE

AMOUNT ONE TIME
or

ONGOING
2023-2024
Capital Improvement
Project (CIP) – State
Parks Statewide Park
Program Grant
331-150-150-
156-8800-8802 C07021 $8,498,000.00 ONE TIME
2023-2024 General Fund 100-100-150-
156-8800-8802 C07021 $2,427,931.00 ONE TIME
2023-2024 Environmental
Conservation Fund
246-900-910-
911-8800-8802 C07021 $ 161,280.00 ONE TIME
2023-2024
Capital Improvement
Project (CIP) – CVAG
Reimbursement
331-100-150-
156-8800-8802 C07021 $ 534,404.51 ONE TIME
2023-2024 Total $11,621,615.51
Authorized Construction Budget
The authorized construction budget was in the amount of $8,072,559.70 and it is shown 2 below:

Construction Contract (Urban Habitat) $6,899,029.97
Contingency $1,173,529.73
Construction Budget $8,072,559.70
Final Construction Cost
A. Urban Habitat Construction Contract Cost:

The total construction expenditures with Urban Habitat were $7,741,506.37. This amount includes the original construction contract in the amount of $6,899,029.97, change orders and credits totaling $842,476.40 issued during construction of the project. The total construction contract cost is summarized below:

Base Contract Amount $6,899,029.97
Change Orders/Credits $ 842,476.40
Total Construction Contract Cost $7,741,506.37
Should there be no claims or discrepancies in the work completed, the final invoice (5% retention) in the amount of $387,075.32 will be released to Urban Habitat in thirty-five (35) days from the date the NOC is filed.

B. Additional Construction Expenditures - City Purchase Orders The city authorized additional expenditures in the amount of $236,609.87 for supplemental park improvements, including additional park benches, bike racks, flagpole, soccer goals, and electrical fixtures for the restroom building. These expenditures also included required support services and regulatory items not included in the construction contract with Urban Habitat, such as material testing services, additional labor compliance monitoring and construction-related regulatory permits.

Expenditure Category Amount
Park Amenities & Equipment $31,723.04
Electrical Fixtures $968.50
Material Testing Services $37,045.00
Overnight Security Services $20,205.00
Labor Compliance Monitoring $98,036.25
Permits & Regulatory Fees $7,364.60
Signage & Wayfinding $1,297.89
Restroom & Shade Structure Taxes $39,969.59
Additional Construction Expenditures (City POs) $236,609.87 C. Remaining Construction Budget
The remaining construction budget is summarized below:

Authorized Construction Budget $ 8,072,559.70
Urban Habitat Construction Cost ($7,741,506.37)
Additional Construction Expenditures (City POs) ($236,609.87) Remaining Construction Budget $94,443.46
3 D. Additional Construction Change Orders (ACCO)
To maximize available construction funds and enhance project’s quality and scope, the remaining construction funds are being used to complete park amenities deferred during the design phase due to budget constraints. These park improvements were anticipated as future additions and are being incorporated into the project. The following additional construction change orders (ACCOs) implement these improvements:
ACCO No.1 – Lighting at rear restroom wall.

Includes purchase and installation lighting along the rear restroom building wall (facing CV Link) to provide illumination for a future art mural. The total cost = $3,454.56. ACCO No.2 – Picnic Shelters Lighting
Lighting for the picnic shade structures was removed during design to reduce project costs and was not included in the construction scope. City staff coordinated with the shelters manufacturer and secured pricing to furnish and install solar-powered lighting systems at each individual picnic shelter. The total cost = $54,896.00 ACCO No.3 - Speed Humps
Speed humps will be installed at the parking lots entrances on Mia Place and Chia Place.

The cost to purchase the speed humps = $1,680.65.
ACCO No.4 to No.6 – Additional Erosion Control Landscaping Rock Landscaping in the north and south areas of the park was significantly reduced during design and removed from the project budget. To improve erosion control, restrict access to these park areas, and maintain consistency with the original design intent, city staff have secured quotes for the purchase and installation of landscaping rubble rock. The total cost for these landscaping improvements includes $12,233.82 for landscaping rubble rock, $1,581.48 for landscape fabric, and $18,025.00 for labor installation.

The total cost for these additional construction improvements is $91,871.51 and is summarized below.

Additional Construction Change Orders Amount
ACCO No.1: Lighting at rear restroom wall $3,454.56
ACCO No.2: Picnic Shelters Lighting $54,896.00
ACCO No.3: Speed Humps $1,680.65
ACCO No.4: Landscaping rubble rock (material) $12,233.82 ACCO No.5: Landscape fabric (material) $1,581.48
ACCO No.6: Landscape labor installation $18,025.00
Additional Construction Change Orders Total $91,871.51
The completion of these park improvements is anticipated by the end of the Fiscal Year 2025-2026.

E. Final Construction Cost
The final construction cost is summarized below:
4 Urban Habitat Construction Contract Cost $7,741,506.37 Additional Construction Expenditures (City POs) $236,609.87 Additional Construction Change Orders $91,871.51
Total Construction Cost $8,069,987.75
Grant Support Services (Separate of Construction Cost)
MVR Consulting was awarded a task order in the amount of $93,900 to provide grant support services for the project. This task order is not included in the construction expenditures summarized above. Total expenditures by MVR Consulting to date are in the amount of $41,880, with a remaining balance of $52,020 still encumbered. MVR Consulting has indicated that approximately $3,830 of the encumbered amount will be billed to produce and complete the project closeout documentation required by California State Parks. Grant management expenses will total $45,710, resulting in a savings of 48,190.

FIVE-YEAR STRATEGIC PLAN:

GOAL B: COMMUNITY INVESTMENT
Objective: Cathedral City roads, gateways, public spaces, and other city infrastructure are well planned, designed, constructed, and maintained
ATTACHMENTS:

1. Notice of Completion Urban Habitat: Dream Homes Park 5 (“President of,” “Manager of,” “A partner of,” “Owner of,” etc.)

RECORDING REQUESTED BY
AND WHEN RECORDED MAIL TO:

Name
Street
Address
City &
State
SPACE ABOVE THIS LINE FOR RECORDER’S USE ONLY

NOTICE OF COMPLETION
Notice is hereby given that:

1. The undersigned is owner or corporate officer of the owner of the interest or estate stated below in the property hereinafter described:

2. The full name of the owner is

3. The full address of the owner is

4. The nature of the interest or estate of the owner is in fee. (If other than fee, strike “in Fee” and insert, for example, “purchaser under contract of purchase,” or “lessee”)

5. The full names and full addresses of all persons, if any, who hold title with the undersigned as joint tenants or as tenants in common are:

NAMES ADDRESSES

6. A work of improvement on the property hereinafter described was completed on . The work done was:

7. The name of the contractor, if any, for such work of improvement was (If no contractor for work of improvement as a whole, insert “none”) (Date of Contract)

8. The property on which said work of improvement was completed is in the city of , County of , State of California, and is described as follows:

9. The street address of said property is
(If no street address has been officially assigned, insert “none”) Dated:

Signature of owner of corporate officer of owner
named in paragraph 2 or his agent

I declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct.

Executed on , 20 , at , California.
(Date of signature) (City where signed)
(Personal signature of the individual who is swearing that the contents of the notice of completion are true)

SRU PAGE SIZE DA MISC LONG RFD COPY
MA L 465 426 PCOR NCOR SMF NCHG
T: CTY UNI
EXAM
http://www/riversideacr.com/acr/forms/Notice%20of%Completion 06/22/2011 Anne V. Ambrose
Interim City Manager, City of Cathedral City

EXEMPT RECORDING FEES PURSUANT TO
CODE SECTION 6130 AND 2733
Anne V. Ambrose
Interim City Manager, City of Cathedral City
City of Cathedral City
Christina Burton, City Clerk
68700 Ave. Lalo Guerrero
Cathedral City
CA 92234
City of Cathedral City
68-700 Avenida Lalo Guerrero, Cathedral City, CA 92234
None
11/17/2025
Dream Homes Park Project (C07021)
Urban Habitat
Cathedral City
Riverside Construction of park improvements found
within the project construction drawings and project specifications for the Dream Homes Park Project City Project No, C07021
02/11/2026
City Manager for the City of Cathedral City
26 Cathedral City
none
6 Staff Report
City Council
Item No. 4.A
Meeting Date: February 11, 2026
From: Andrew Firestine, Community and Economic Development Director Planner
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendment 25-0005 - An amendment to Chapter

9.114 (Accessory Dwelling Units) of Title 9 Planning and Zoning of the Cathedral City Municipal Code for consistency with new State legislation regulating accessory dwelling units.

RECOMMENDATION:

Continue the public hearing for Zoning Ordinance Amendment 25-0005 to the City Council meeting of February 25, 2026.

DISCUSSION:

Staff requests the public hearing for Zoning Ordinance Amendment 25-0005 be continued to the regularly scheduled City Council meeting on February 25, 2026.

Senate Bill (SB) 543 was adopted in the most recent legislative session and became effective on January 1, 2026. The bill clarifies existing laws regulating accessory dwelling units, including provisions related to size standards, impact fees, and number of units permitted.

The draft ordinance presented to the Planning Commission for consideration at the January 21, 2026 public hearing, did not contain the provisions contained in SB 543, as it was newly enacted. The staff presentation did advise the Planning Commission of the new legislation and the changes that would need to be made to the proposed ordinance, prior to City Council consideration.

At the conclusion of the public hearing, the Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend City Council adopt the proposed Zoning Ordinance Amendment, including additional changes necessary to conform with Senate Bill (SB) 543.

Staff request this continuance to ensure the proposed ordinance is fully consistent with these most recent updates to State law.

PUBLIC NOTIFICATION:

This item was noticed in accordance with the Cathedral City Municipal Code for the February 1 11, 2026 City Council meeting. The continuance to date specific meetings does not require additional noticing.

FISCAL IMPACT:

There is no fiscal impact.
2 Staff Report
City Council
Item No. 5.A
Meeting Date: February 11, 2026
From: Eric Vail, City Attorney
Title: Employment Agreement for City Manager
RECOMMENDATION:

To approve an employment agreement with Andrew Firestine for the position of City Manager
BACKGROUND:

After nearly 12 years of dedicated service to the City of Cathedral City, City Manager Charles “Charlie” McClendon announced his retirement on June 19, 2025, with his final day of employment on September 19, 2025. Upon notification of Charlie’s imminent retirement, the City Council took proactive steps to ensure a smooth transition of leadership. The City Council appointed Anne Ambrose, the current Assistant City Manager, to serve as the Interim City Manager and engaged the professional recruiting firm of Bob Murray and Associates to undertake a nationwide search for new city manager candidates. On October 16, 2025, the Council launched a survey seeking input from the community on the qualities and priorities desired in the next city manager. Input was also sought from members of the City’s management team to help guide the recruitment.

Upon closure of the recruitment on November 16, 2025, the consultant and the City Council reviewed applicants, narrowed the list of candidates to be interviewed and then went through two rounds of in-person interviews to select the strongest candidate.

Having undertaken a thorough recruitment process, the City Council has selected Andrew Firestine for consideration for appointment as the City’s new permanent City Manager. Mr.

Firestine started work with the City in September 2023 and is currently serving as the City’s Director of Community and Economic Development.

Mr. Firestine is an experienced local government professional with a career focused on creating lasting community impact and delivering efficient, effective, and responsive service.

A California native, he spent the first 16 years of his career in Colorado, working for a regional council of government and the cities of Colorado Springs and Centennial in various planning and management roles.
1 Firestine relocated to the Coachella Valley in 2019 and served as Assistant City Manager for the City of Palm Desert, managing multiple service areas until 2022. He then served as Director of Development Services for the City of Escondido before joining the City of Cathedral City in September 2023. In his current role as Director of Community and Economic Development, he has led the city's planning, economic development, code compliance, and building services.

Firestine holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of San Diego and a Master of City and Regional Planning from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. He is a member of the American Planning Association, the American Institute of Certified Planners, and the International City/County Management Association.

Attached to this staff report as Exhibit “A” is an Employment Contract for the Position of City Manager to be considered for approval by Council. If approved by Council, Mr. Firestine would become the City’s new City Manager as of Thursday, February 12, 2026, and Ms.

Ambrose will return to her position as Assistant City Manager.

DISCUSSION:

The proposed Employment Agreement includes the following material terms, which are summarized below:
Term. Commences on Thursday, February 12, 2026, and has a nominal term of five (5) years, subject to earlier termination as provided in the Employment Agreement.

City Manager Position. The City Manager is the administrative head of the City, responsible for managing city staff and implementing policy directives of the City Council. The Employment Agreement, the Municipal Code, and the Job Description identifies the specific duties of the City Manager.

Base Salary. Paid biweekly on the city’s standard payment schedule calculated based on an annual salary of $280,000 per year.
Retirement. PEPRA member enrolled with CalPERS. City contributions to 401(a) and 457 retirement accounts as stated in Employment Agreement. Educational Stipend. A stipend of 2.5% of the annual base salary. Benefits. Same benefits as the Executive / Non-Represented employees based upon number of years of service with the City of Cathedral City where such benefits are tiered.
Auto Allowance. $600 per month.
Technology Stipend. $55 per month.
Duties / Work Hours. As stated in the Employment Agreement. Anticipated 40+ hours per week to perform duties.
2 FISCAL IMPACT:

Salary and benefit items will be expended from the City Manager’s department budget.

FIVE-YEAR STRATEGIC PLAN:

The City Manager is responsible for helping the organization achieve the City Council goals of:

Goal A: Serving the Community with Pride and Dedication Goal B: Community Investment
Goal C: Fiscal Stability and Sustainability
Goal D: Innovation
Goal E: Safety
Goal F: Embracing, Inclusive Community
ATTACHMENTS:

Employment Agreement – City Manager
3 07024-0121 4927-1536-4748 v1 1

EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT
For the Position of

CITY MANAGER
This Employment Agreement (“Agreement”) is made and entered into on this 11th day of February , 2026 b y and between the CITY OF CATHEDRAL CITY (“CITY”), a California charter city and municipal corporation, and ANDREW FIRESTINE (“FIRESTINE”), an individual, on the terms and conditions set forth hereinafter. CITY and FIRESTINE may be referred to in the Agreement in the singular as a “PARTY” or jointly as the “PARTIES.

RECITALS
A. CITY desires to employ the services of FIRESTINE as its City Manager, to carry out the duties and responsibilities of City Manager as defined herein and in the Cathedral City Municipal Code (“CCMC”), during the term provided herein, subject to the provisions of section 3 of this Agreement.

B. FIRESTINE previously commenced work with CITY on September 11, 2023 and is currently employed by CITY as its Director of Community and Economic Development. FIRESTINE desires to accept employment as City Manager in consideration of , and subject to , the terms, conditions, and benefits set forth in this Agreement.

C. CITY conducted a nationwide recruitment guided by a professional recruitment firm to secure the best qualified candidates for this position. The City Council selected FIRESTINE as the top candidate after consideration of all submitted resumes and two rounds of in- person interviews. As of the date listed above, all required background checks and any required examinations have been successfully completed without indication of any issues.

OPERATIVE PROVISIONS
In consideration of the terms, conditions, promises and agreements herein, the PARTIES agree as follows:

1. Position and Duties.

1.1 Position. FIRESTINE accepts employment with CITY as its City Manager and shall perform all functions, duties and services set forth in Section 1.4 [Duties] of this Agreement. FIRESTINE shall provide service at the direction and under the supervision of the City Council. It is the intent of the PARTIES that the City Manager shall keep the City Council fully informed of all significant ongoing operations of CITY. Toward that end, FIRESTINE shall report directly to the City Council and will periodically, or as may be 4 07024-0121 4927-1536-4748 v1 2

otherwise specifically requested by the City Council, provide status reports to the City Council on his activities and those of CITY. FIRESTINE shall provide the City Council with reasonable advance written notice of absences due to vacation or use of administrative leave, and shall inform the City Council which Department Head shall be acting on his behalf during his absence.

1.2 Commencement Date / Period of Employment . The PARTIES agree that this Agreement commences and is effective as of February 12, 2026, provided that and subject to, approval of the Agreement by CITY’s City Council, execution of the Agreement by FIRESTINE and CITY’s Mayor. FIRESTINE has completed all background checks and examinations required by CITY to CITY’s satisfaction. FIRESTINE shall serve as City Manager for a nominal term of five (5) years subject to either of the parties terminating the Agreement as provided in Section 3 [Termination] of this Agreement . In the event that none of the foregoing has occurred within the five (5) year term, then this Agreement shall automatically expire unless the Parties mutually agree, by written amendment of this Agreement approved by the City Council and executed by FIRESTINE and CITY’s Mayor, to extend the term for a further stated period of time.

1.3 At-W
ill. FIRESTINE acknowledges that he is an at -will employee of CITY who shall, at all times, serve at the pleasure of the City Council during the period of his service hereunder . The terms of CITY’s personnel rules, policies, procedures, ordinances, resolutions, memorandums of understanding, or collective bargaining agreements (collectively “Personnel Policies”), except as otherwise specifically provided in this Agreement to the contrary, shall not apply to FIRESTINE, and nothing in this Agreement is intended to, or does, confer upon FIRESTINE any right to any property interest in continued employment, or any due process right to a hearing before or after a decision by the City Council to terminate his employment as City Manager, except as is expressly provided in Section 3 [Termination] of this Agreement. Nothing contained in this Agreement shall in any way prevent, limit or otherwise interfere with the right of CITY to terminate the services of FIRESTINE as City Manager as provided in Sec tion 3 [Termination]. Nothing in this Agreement shall prevent, limit or otherwise interfere with the right of FIRESTINE to resign at any time from the position of City Manager with CITY, subject only to the provisions set forth in Section 3 [Termination] of this Agreement. This at-will employment Agreement shall be expressly subject to the rights and obligations of CITY and FIRESTINE, as set forth in Section 3 [Termination] below.

1.4 Du
ties . FIRESTINE shall serve as the City Manager and shall be vested with the powers, duties and responsibilities of the City Mana ger as set forth in Chapters

2.08 and 2.20 of the CCMC, and such other Chapters or Sections of the CCMC as may reference the City Manager, all as may be amended from time to time, the terms of which are incorporated herein by reference. Any conflict in terms between this Agreement and the foregoing Chapters and Sections of the CCMC shall be resolved in favor of this Agreement. It is the intent of the City Council for the City Manager to function as the chief executive officer of CITY’s organization. Without additional compensation, FIRESTINE 5 07024-0121 4927-1536-4748 v1 3

shall provide such other services as are customary and appropriate to the position of City Manager, including serving as the Executive Director of the Successor Agency to the City of Cathedral City Redevelopment Agency and City of Cathedral City Housing Authority, together with such additional services assigned from time to time by the City Council as may be consistent with California law and the CCMC. FIRESTINE shall devote his best efforts and full-time attention to the performance of these duties.

1.5 Hours of Work. FIRESTINE shall devote the time necessary to adequately perform his duties as City Manager. The PARTIES expect that a minimum of forty (4 0) hours per week during regular business hours, as well as additional time outside of the normal business hours, will be required to satisfy this requirement. Toward that end, FIRESTINE shall be allowed reasonable flexibility in setting his own office hours, provided the schedule of such hours affords adequate availability of the City Manager to the City Council, CITY staff, and members of the community during CITY’s normal business hours and for the performance of his duties and of CITY business. The position of City Manager shall be deemed an exempt position under California wage and hour law and under the federal Fair Labor Standards Act. FIRESTINE’s compensation (whether salary or benefits or other allowances) is not based on hours worked and FIRESTINE shall not be entitled to any compensation for overtime.

1.6 R
egional and Professional Activity. The City Council desires FIRESTINE to be reasonably active in national, statewide, regional and professional organizations that will contribute to City Manager’s professional development and standing and that will contribute to the advancement of CITY’s interests, goals and objectives. Toward that end, FIRESTINE may, upon advance notice to the City Council, undertake such activities as are directly related to his professional development and that advance the interests, goals and objectives of CITY. These activities may include, without limitation, participation in the Cal Cities, the International City/County Management Association, and/or other similar national, statewide, regional or professional organizations, provided that such activities do not in any way interfere with or adversely affect performance of his duties as City Manager.

1.7 Co
nflicting Activities . In accordance with Government Code Section 1126, during the period of his employment, FIRESTINE shall not accept, without the express prior written consent of the City Council, any other employment or engage, directly or indirectly, in any other business, commercial, or professional activity (except as permitted under Section 1.6 [Regional and Professional Activity]), whether or not for pecuniary advantage, that is or may be competitive with CITY, that might cause a conflict of interest with CITY, or that otherwise might interfere with the business or operation of CITY or the satisfactory performance of FIRESTINE’s duties as City Manager.

1.8 R
eimbursement . CITY agrees to reimburse FIRESTINE for reasonable and necessary travel, subsistence and other business expenses incurred by FIRESTINE in 6 07024-0121 4927-1536-4748 v1 4

the performance of his duties. All reimbursements shall be subject to and in accordance with California law and CITY’s adopted Employee Reimbursement Policy.

2. Compensation and Benefits.

2.1 Base Salary . FIRESTINE shall receive an annual base salary of Two Hundred Eighty Thousand Dollars and No Cents ($280,000.00) paid on a pro-rated basis according to the bi -weekly payroll schedule in place for CITY employees . Such base salary shall be subject to normal and proper withholdings as determined by state and federal law and as determined appropriate by the CITY and shall be subject to payroll taxes, workers’ compensation, and other payroll-related liability costs.

2.2 E
ducational Stipend. During the period of employment, FIRESTINE shall receive, in addition to his base salary, a stipend equal to 2.5% of his Base Salary, paid on a pro- rata basis according to the bi -weekly payroll schedule in place for the CITY employees, consistent with section 3.17.2 of CITY’s Regulations Covering Executive, Administrative, Professional, Confidential and Other Particular Employees dated June 25, 2025, as may be updated from time to time (hereinafter referred to as “Executive Regulations”).

2.3 A
djustment to Compensation. Any adjustment in compensation, including base salary, COLA, merit increases, adjustment in benefits or other compensation (“Compensation”) shall be solely at the discretion of the City Council and adjustments to FIRESTINE’s Compensation (inclusive of Base Salary, Educational Stipend, and Cost of Living Increases) must be approved by the City Council as a separate action from a general amendment to the Executive Regulations. All adjustments in Compensation are subject to approval by the affirmative vote of at least three (3) members of the City Council voting on the item at a duly noticed and agendized public meeting.

2.4 P
erformance Evaluation. On or before February 12th of each calendar year, unless another time is mutually agreed upon by the Parties, the City Council shall conduct a performance evaluation of FIRESTINE to assess his performance as City Manager. The City Council may provide constructive comments and directives as may be necessary related to his performance and the City Council and FIRESTINE may discuss goals that FIRESTINE may reasonably achieve during the following year. This provision is not intended to limit the method, procedure, or substance of such evaluations nor is this provision intended to limit the City Council evaluating FIRESTINE’s performance more frequently that provided above.

2.5 R
etirement and Retirement Savings .

2.5.1 Retirement. CITY intends to maintain its current retirement plan with the State of California’s Public Employees Retirement System (“CalPERS”) and to include FIRESTINE thereunder as a “PEPRA” member under CalPERS 2 % at 62 7 07024-0121 4927-1536-4748 v1 5

years of age formula for miscellaneous employees and FIRESTINE making the required pre-tax member contribution.

2.5.2 Deferred Compensation – 457 Plan. During the period of employment, CITY shall provide a matching contribution to FIRESTINE’s contribution to his 457 Deferred Compensation Plan, which is currently $65 per pay period ($1,690 annually), consistent with the rules and regulations in CITY’s 457 plan document, as may be amended from time to time, provided such amount does not exceed any legal contribution limit to such plan.

2.5.3 Deferred Compensation – 401(a) Plan. During the period of employment, CITY shall annually provide a contribution of Twenty-eight Thousand dollars and no cents ($28,000.00) to FIRESTINE’s 401(a) account, contributed on a pro-rated basis according to the bi -weekly payroll schedule. FIRESTINE shall make such mandatory employee contributions to the plan as required by Executive Regulations, as they may be amended from time to time.

2.6 Health Benefits . During the period of employment, FIRESTINE, as a CalPERS participant, shall be eligible to receive health benefits ( health, dental, vision) based on FIRESTINE’s enrollment in his chosen medical plan (HMO or PPO) and his provider with which he has enrolled (e.g. Kaiser, Blue Cross , etc.) and other benefits chosen by FIRESTINE (e.g. Life & AD&D insurance, and other insurance products), as offered by City through CalPERS and other providers, consistent with the Cathedral City 2026 Employee Benefit Guide and the Executive Regulations, as both may be amended from time to time, and CITY’s contract with CalPERS and the rules, regulations and policies related thereto, as may be amended from time to time. CITY will pay for such benefits up to the Cap Allowance for the NonRep/Elected category as provided in the Cathedral City 2026 Benefit Guide and Executive Regulations, both as may be amended from time to time.

2.7 Lea
ve Accruals.

2.7.1 Vacation. FIRESTINE shall carry over his accrued but unused vacation time of 300.17 hours. Thereafter, during the period of employment, FIRESTINE shall accrue Vacation leave at the rate provided in Section 6.3.1, using September 11, 2023 as his commencement of service date, and for purposes the limit on his accumulation of vacation hours he shall be subject to the limits of a Tier 2 employee under Section 6.5, and subject to the cash out allowance limits in Section 6.6, all in accordance with the Executive Rules as the may be amended from time to time.

2.7.2 Sick Leave. FIRESTINE shall carry over his accrued but unused sick leave time of 191.94 hours. Thereafter, during the period of employment, FIRESTINE shall accrue and convert sick leave consistent with Sections 6.12 (Tier 2) and 6.13 (Tier 2) of the Executive Rules as they may be amended from time to time.
8 07024-0121 4927-1536-4748 v1 6

2.7.3 Holidays. During the period of employment, FIRESTINE shall be provided with the holidays recognized in Section 6.10 of the Executive Rules as they may be amended from time to time.

2.8 Miscellaneous Benefits.

2.8.1 Auto Allowance. During the period of employment, FIRESTINE shall receive an auto allowance of $600 per month as compensation for use of his personal vehicle for CITY business. FIRESTINE agrees to maintain a California driver ’s license in good standing, shall keep his vehicle in good working condition, shall provide without lapse, adequate auto insurance (both liability and property damage), shall obey all traffic laws relating to operation of the vehicle, and shall use due care and caution in its operation.

2.8.2 S mart Phone Stipend. During the period of employment, FIRESTINE shall receive a Smartphone Stipend as provided for in Section 3.16 of the Executive Regulations (currently $55 per month) in consideration of his use of his personal phone, computer or other similar electronic devices.

3. Ter
mination.

3.1 By Employee. FIRESTINE may terminate this Agreement for any reason, and at any time, with or without cause, by providing CITY with thirty (30) days prior written notice thereof, notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in or arising from any CITY ordinance, resolution, policy, or past CITY practices relating to the employment, discipline, or termination of its employees.

3.2 By
City Not -For-Cause. Upon the affirmative vote of at least three (3) members of the City Council, during a duly noticed closed session meeting of the City Council, the CITY may terminate this Agreement for any reason, and at any time, without cause, by providing FIRESTINE with thirty (30) days prior written notice thereof, notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in or arising from any CITY ordinance, resolution, policy or past practice relating to the employment, discipline, or termination of its employees . FIRESTINE expressly waives any rights provided under any CITY ordinance, resolution or policy , or under any state or federal law, to the extent legally allowable, to any form of pre- or post- termination hearing, appeal or other administrative process. CITY has the right to immediately place FIRESTINE on paid administrative leave and such leave time shall count toward the thirty (30) day notice period. In the event CITY terminates the Agreement not -for-cause, and provided that (i) FIRESTINE does not challenge the termination, including but not limited to by means of appeal or civil or administrative action, and (ii) timely and fully executes a separation agreement in a form approved by the City Attorney, then CITY shall pay FIRESTINE a lump sum equal to the lesser of six (6) months of FIRESTINE’s then base salary amount (not including any education adjustment to base pay) or the number of full months remaining in the term of 9 07024-0121 4927-1536-4748 v1 7

the Agreement multiplied by his then base salary amount . In addition CITY to pay for FIRESTINE’s health, dental and vision coverage as provided above in Section 2.6 for the number of months for which Severance is paid. Severance does not include accrued but unpaid salary, less applicable deductions, deferred compensation, benefits or any accrued compensable leave to which FIRESTINE may otherwise be entitled to under the law. The amount to be paid by City is limited by Government Code Section 53260 which provides that the maximum cash settlement for the termination of the Agreement may not exceed the base salary multiplied by the number of months remaining on the Agreement. For the purpose of this Agreement, the Parties have agreed that the maximum number of months to be used for calculation of the Severance payment shall be six (6) months.

3.3 By City For-Cause. CITY may immediately terminate this Agreement at any time by providing FIRESTINE written notice of his termination for cause. No Severance or any further salary shall be paid in the event FIRESTINE’s employment is terminated for cause except for any accrued but unpaid salary, less applicable deductions, deferr ed compensation, benefits or any accrued compensable leave to which FIRESTINE may otherwise be entitled to receive under the law. For purposes of this Agreement, cause for termination shall be deemed to exist where: (1) FIRESTINE is formally charged by the appropriate prosecuting agency with any of the following criminal conduct: theft or attempted theft from the City; fraud or other type of criminal dishonesty; misuse or misappropriation of public funds; assault, battery or other criminal physical injury to another person; any felony; solicitation, prostitution, or other sexually oriented crime; or for violating Government Code Sections 1090 et seq. and/or Section 53243.4; (2) FIRESTINE is fined by the Fair Political Practices Commission for a violation of the Political Reform Act or FPPC Regulation in an amount in excess of one thousand five hundred dollars ($1,500); (3) an independent investigation sustains that FIRESTINE engaged in discrimination or harassment of an official, officer, employee or agent of CITY or a third party while conducting City business; (4) violation of the City’s Municipal Code; (5) unauthorized absence or leave in violation of section 1.1 of this Agreement; (6) use or possession of illegal drugs; (7) material breach of this Agreem ent; (8) material acts of dishonesty; (9) material failure to disclose information regarding the business or operation of the City that hinders or impairs the City Council’s ability to make informed decisions on projects, policies or legislative actions; or (10) material failure to follow clear and legal directives of a majority of the City Council provided in a duly noticed public meeting, including closed session. FIRESTINE expressly waives any rights provided for executive, administrative, and/or confidential personnel under CITY ’s ordinances, resolutions, policies, or past practices, or under State or Federal law to any form of pre- or post - termination hearing, appeal, or other administrative process pertaining to termination, except when FIRESTINE has a California or federal constitutional right to a name-clearing hearing.

3.4 R
eimbursement Under Certain Circumstances. The PARTIES
Acknowledge that Government Code Section 53243.4 may require FIRESTINE to 10 07024-0121 4927-1536-4748 v1 8

reimburse CITY for certain payments made by CITY to FIRESTINE during the term of his employment with CITY should he be convicted of a crime within the meaning of Section 53243.4.

4. Proprietary Information.
“Proprietary Information” is all information and any ideas pertaining in any manner to the business of CITY (or any CITY affiliate), its employees, clients, consultants, or business associates, which was produced by any employee of CITY in the course of his employment or otherwise produced or acquired by or on behalf of CITY. Proprietary Information shall include, without limitation, trade secrets, product ideas, inventions, processes, formulae, data, know -how, software and other computer programs, copyrightable material, marketing plans, strategies, sales, financial reports, forecasts, and customer lists. All Proprietary Information not generally known outside of CITY’s organization, and all Proprietary Information so known only through improper means, shall be deemed “Confidential Information.” During his employment by CITY, FIRESTINE shall use Proprietary Information, and shall disclose Confidential Information, only for the benefit of CITY and as is or may be necessary to perform his job responsibilities under this Agreement. Following termination, FIRESTINE shall not use any Propri etary Information and shall not disclose any Confidential Information, except with the express written consent of CITY. FIRESTINE’s obligations under this Section shall survive the termination of his employment and the expiration of this Agreement.

5. Conflict Of Interest.

FIRESTINE represents and warrants to CITY that he presently has no interest, and represents that he will not acquire any interest, direct or indirect, financial or otherwise, which would conflict in any manner or interfere in any way with performance of his services under this Agreement.

6. General Provisions.

6.1 Notices. All notices, requests, demands and other communications under this Agreement shall be in writing and shall be effective upon delivery by hand or three (3) business days after deposit in the United States mail, postage prepaid, certified or registered, and addressed to CITY at the address below, and or at the last known address maintained in FIRESTINE’s personnel file. FIRESTINE agrees to notify CITY in writing of any change in his address during his employment with CITY. Notice of change of address shall be effective only when accomplished in accordance with this Section.

11 07024-0121 4927-1536-4748 v1 9

City’s Notice Address:

City of Cathedral City
69700 Avenida Lalo Guerrero
Cathedral City, CA 92234
Attn: Mayor and City Council
City Manager’s Address:
[Deliver to last updated address in
personnel file.]

6.2 Indemnification. Subject to, in accordance with, and to the extent provided by the California Tort Claims Act [Gov. Code § 810 et seq.], CITY will indemnify, defend, and hold FIRESTINE harmless from and against any action, demand, suit, monetary judgment or other legal or administrative proceeding, and any liability, injury, loss or other damages, arising out of any act or omission occurring during FIRESTINE’s tenure as City Manager.

6.3 I
ntegration. This Agreement is intended to be the final, complete, and exclusive statement of the terms of FIRESTINE’s employment by CITY. This Agreement supersedes all other prior and contemporaneous agreements and statements, whether written or oral, express or implied, pertaining in any manner to the employment of FIRESTINE, and it may not be contradicted by evidence of any prior or contemporaneous statements or agreements. To the extent that the practices, policies, or procedures of CITY, now or in the future, apply to FIRESTINE and are inconsistent with the terms of this Agreement, the provisions of this Agreement shall control.

6.4 A
mendments . This Agreement may not be amended except in a written document signed by FIRESTINE, approved by the City Council and signed by CITY’s Mayor.

6.5 W aiver . Failure to exercise any right under this Agreement shall not constitute a waiver of such right.

6.6 A ssignment . FIRESTINE shall not assign any rights or obligations under this Agreement. CITY may, upon prior written notice to FIRESTINE, assign its rights and obligations hereunder.

6.7 S everability . If a court or arbitrator holds any provision of this Agreement to be invalid, unenforceable, or void, the remainder of this Agreement shall remain in full force and effect.

6.8 A ttorneys’ Fees. In any legal action, arbitration, or other proceeding brought to enforce or interpret the terms of this Agreement, the prevailing PARTY shall be entitled to recover reasonable attorneys’ fees and costs.

6.9 G overning Law . This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of California, with venue proper only in Riverside County, State of California.
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6.10 Interpretation. This Agreement shall be construed as a whole, according to its fair meaning, and not in favor of or against any PARTY. By way of example and not in limitation, this Agreement shall not be construed in favor of the PARTY receiving a benefit nor against the PARTY responsible for any particular language in this Agreement.

Captions are used for reference purposes only and should be ignored in the interpretation of the Agreement. This Agreement may be altered, amended or modified only by an instrument in writing, executed by the PARTIES to this Agreement and by no other means.

Each PARTY waives their future right to claim, contest or assert that this Agreement was modified, cancelled superseded or changed by any oral agreement, course of conduct, waiver or estoppel.

6.11 A
cknowledgment . FIRESTINE acknowledges that he has had the opportunity to consult legal counsel in regard to this Agreement, that he has read and understands this Agreement, that he is fully aware of its legal effect, and that he has entered into it freely and voluntarily and based on his own judgment and not on any representations or promises other than those contained in this Agreement.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, CITY has caused this Agreement to be signed and executed on its behalf by its Mayor and duly attested to by its City Clerk, and FIRESTINE has signed and executed this Agreement, as of the date first indicated above.

CITY MANAGER CITY OF CATHEDRAL CITY
ANDREW FIRESTINE RAYMOND GREGORY, Mayor
ATTEST: APPROVED AS TO FORM:

Burke, Williams &Sorensen, LLP

Christina Burton, City Clerk Eric S. Vail, serving as
City Attorney

Cathedral City City CouncilFebruary 11, 2026

Cathedral City City Council
February 11, 2026