El Centro City Council
March 3, 2026

AGENDA

CITY OF EL CENTRO

CITY COUNCIL
TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2026
City Hall Regular Meeting 3:30 PM

CITY HALL

COUNCIL CHAMBERS
1275 MAIN STREET
EL CENTRO, CA 92243
The public may attend in person. Any member of the public attending in person and wishing to make a comment is asked to complete a speaker slip and follow the instructions below regarding “Notice to the Public”. Any member of the public is invited to submit public comments in advance of the meeting to be answered at the meeting. Please email your questions to [email protected] or call 760-337-4515 by March 3, 2026.

COUNCIL MEMBERS, STAFF AND THE PUBLIC MAY ATTEND VIA ZOOM.

To participate and make a public comment in person, via Zoom or telephone, please raise your hand, speak up and introduce yourself.

Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/4180375132?pwd=Rmo5UjZ1cWdyV1VoWUhSZWp6R0tVZz09&omn=82250908747 Optional dial-in number: (669) 900-6833
Meeting ID: 418 037 5132 Passcode: 5iHJYM
Public comments via Zoom are subject to the same time limits as those in person.

Mayor and Council Members may be reached at (760) 336-8989.

Mayor:

Mayor Pro-Tem:

Council Members:

Michael Crankshaw
Claudia Camarena
Sylvia Marroquin
Marty Ellett
Sonia Carter
City Manager: Robert Sawyer
City Attorney: Joanna Hoff
City Clerk: Norma Wyles
3:30 PM CLOSED SESSION - CONFERENCE ROOM "A":

ROLL CALL:

CLOSED SESSION PUBLIC MEETING:

Any member of the public wishing to address the City Council on any matter appearing in the closed session may do so at this time. Unless the Mayor extends the time limit, remarks shall be limited to three (3) minutes. Additional opportunities for Public Comment will be given at the end of the meeting.

CITY COUNCIL ADJOURNS INTO CLOSED SESSION:

CITY COUNCIL CLOSED SESSION:

CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54957.6
Agency Designated representative: Patrick Clark
Employee Organization: Firefighters Association, General Employees Unit, and Supervisor, Professional, and Technical Employees Unit
CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – ANTICIPATED LITIGATION
Initiation of litigation pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(4): One potential case

PUBLIC EMPLOYEE DISCIPLINE/DISMISSAL/RELEASE
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54957(b)(1)

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC
This is a public meeting. If there is an item on the agenda on which you wish to be heard, you are asked to complete a blue speaker slip and submit it to the City Clerk prior to the start of the meeting. Persons wishing to address the Council are not required to identify themselves (Gov’t Code § 54953.3); however, this information assists the Mayor by ensuring that all persons wishing to address the Council are recognized and also assists the City Clerk in preparing the City Council meeting minutes. When the item is announced and your name is called by the Mayor, please step to the podium and state your name for the record. Unless the Mayor extends the time, there is a three (3) minute time limit for each public presentation. If you wish to address the Council concerning any other matter not appearing on the agenda, you may do so during the public comment portion of the agenda. However, you may not show a visual presentation without review of that material. If you do so, you will be considered out of order. * Any information provided on the “Speaker Slip” is voluntary and will be public record 6:00 OPEN SESSION
CALL TO ORDER:

ROLL CALL BY CITY CLERK:

INVOCATION:

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:

CITY ATTORNEY REPORT ON CLOSED SESSION:

PUBLIC COMMENTS:

The City Council welcomes your input. At this time, members of the public may address the City Council on any matter not listed on the posted agenda. Pursuant to the Brown Act, no action will be taken on any issue brought forth under Public Comments. We ask that you please complete a “Speaker Slip” and submit it to the City Clerk prior to the start of the meeting. Although you are not required to identify yourself (Gov’t Code §54953.3); this information on the “Speaker Slip” assists the Mayor that all persons wishing to address the Council are recognized and also assists the City Clerk in preparing the City Council meeting minutes. Unless the Mayor extends the time, there is a three (3) minute time limit for each public presentation. * Any information provided on the “Speaker Slip” is voluntary and will be public record.

PRESENTATION:

1. Presentation to Outgoing Mayor Sonia Carter from Imperial Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce, Victor Nava, President.

CONSENT AGENDA (ITEM 2):

2. Approval of City Council Minutes of February 17, 2026.

NEW BUSINESS:

3. Discussion and any necessary action regarding consideration of the Downtown Fee Waiver Program.

Presentation: Angel Hernandez, Community Development Director Recommendation:

Adopt Resolution No. 26- , A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF

EL CENTRO ESTABLISHING A FEE WAIVER PROGRAM TO INCENTIVIZE NEW DEVELOPMENT IN THE DOWNTOWN AREA.

4. Award of Bid and authorize a contract for the Embellece (Beautify) El Centro Downtown Beautification Project, funded by California Department of Transportation (Caltrans).

Presentation: Adriana Nava, Community Services Director Recommendation:

Adopt Resolution No. 26- , RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF

EL CENTRO AWARDING THE BID AND AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A

CONTRACT FOR EMBELLECE (BEAUTIFY) EL CENTRO DOWNTOWN
BEAUTIFICATION PROJECT.

5. Discussion and direction regarding Proposed Half-Court Basketball Court at Legacy Ranch Subdivision.

Presentation: Adriana Nava, Community Services Director Recommendation:

Discussion and direction regarding the proposed half-court basketball court to be constructed at Legacy Park.

6. Eddie White Complex Frazier Field Parking Lot - Change Order Approval Presentation: Adriana Nava, Community Services Director Recommendation:

1. Approve Change Order No. 3 in the amount of $38,106.00 for additional pavement improvements consisting of crack seal and slurry seal application.

2. Authorize the transfer of $16,524.47 from the Frazier Field Improvements Project to the Eddie White Complex – Frazier Field Parking Lot Project to cover the amount exceeding the remaining contingency balance.

7. Discussion and any necessary action regarding the award of Valley Center Point Plaza Demolition Project.

Presentation: Abraham Campos, Public Works Director/City Engineer Recommendation:

1. Adopt Resolution No. 26- , RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EL

CENTRO AWARDING THE BID AND AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A CONTRACT FOR THE VALLEY CENTER POINT PLAZA DEMOLITION PROJECT.

2. Authorize City Manager to execute the contract under similar terms and conditions as the contract template issued at bid time and as may be modified and approved by the City Attorney.

8. Presentation regarding City of El Centro Rate Study
Presentation: Abraham Campos, Public Works Director/City Engineer Recommendation:

Receive the presentation and provide direction to staff regarding the proposed water and sewer rate structure.

9. Funding request for bus shelters.

Presentation: Abraham Campos, Public Works Director/City Engineer Recommendation:

Designate a funding amount and funding source to advance the purchase and installation of new bus shelters.

10. Establishing Water Rate Setting Procedures Under Proposition 218.

Presentation: Abraham Campos, Public Works Director/City Engineer Recommendation:

Adopt Resolution 26- , ESTABLISHING WATER RATE SETTING PROCEDURES UNDER PROPOSITION 218, AND GOVERNMENT CODE SECTIONS 53750 THROUGH 53759.2 AND 54354.5.

LEGISLATIVE ACTION:

INFORMATIONAL ITEMS:

11. Update Emergency Declaration - WWTP Bar Screen Failure

12. Received and referred to Community Development Department, Application for Alcoholic Beverage License- Arrellanos Five, LLC La Birrieria Red Tacos #2 710 S. 4TH St El Centro, CA 92243

TASK FORCE REPORTS AND MAYOR/CONFERENCE REPORTS - COUNCIL MEMBER REPORTS:

CITY MANAGER REPORT:

ADJOURNMENT:

Materials related to an item on this Agenda submitted to the City Council after distribution of the agenda packet will be available for public inspection at the Office of the City Clerk, 1275 Main Street, El Centro, California 92243, Monday-Friday during normal business hours.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, you should contact the office of the City Clerk at (760) 337-4515. Notification at least 48 hours prior to the meeting will enable the City to make reasonable arrangement to assure accessibility to this meeting.

City Council of the City of El Centro
1275 W. Main Street
El Centro, CA 92243

SUBMITTED
ACTION ITEM (ID # 2026-46)
Item: 1.

Meeting: 3/3/2026 3:30 PM
Department: City Clerk
Category: Presentation
Prepared by: Norma Wyles, City Clerk
Department Head:

DOC ID: 2026-46
Presentation to Outgoing Mayor Sonia Carter from Imperial Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce, Victor Nava, President.

CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION:

FISCAL IMPACT:

STRATEGIC PLANNING PROGRAM 2022-2027 RELATION:

DUE DILIGENCE CHECK FOR CONTRACTORS/CONSULTANTS: DID THE

DEPARTMENT VERIFY CURRENT EL CENTRO BUSINESS LICENSE,
CONTRACTOR'S LICENSE, REFERENCE CHECKS, INSURANCE, ETC.:

BACKGROUND:

DISCUSSION:

CONCLUSION:

ATTACHMENTS:

None

City Council of the City of El Centro
1275 W. Main Street
El Centro, CA 92243

SUBMITTED
ACTION ITEM (ID # 2026-53)
Item: 2.

Meeting: 3/3/2026 3:30 PM
Department: City Clerk
Category: Action Item
Prepared by: Norma Wyles, City Clerk
Department Head: Norma Wyles
DOC ID: 2026-53
Approval of City Council Minutes of February 17, 2026.

CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION:

Approval of City Council Minutes of February 17, 2026.

FISCAL IMPACT:

STRATEGIC PLANNING PROGRAM 2022-2027 RELATION:

DUE DILIGENCE CHECK FOR CONTRACTORS/CONSULTANTS: DID THE

DEPARTMENT VERIFY CURRENT EL CENTRO BUSINESS LICENSE,
CONTRACTOR'S LICENSE, REFERENCE CHECKS, INSURANCE, ETC.:

BACKGROUND:

DISCUSSION:

CONCLUSION:

ATTACHMENTS:

1. 2-17-2026 Regular CC Minutes

Book 37

REGULAR MEETING

EL CENTRO CITY COUNCIL

CITY HALL, COUNCIL CHAMBERS
1275 MAIN STREET, EL CENTRO, CA
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2026, 3:30 P.M.

The El Centro City Council met in a regular session on Tuesday, February 17, 2026 at 3:39 p.m. in Conference Room A, El Centro City Hall, 1275 W. Main Street, El Centro, California for the purpose of closed session.

PRESENT: Council: Carter, Camarena, Crankshaw, Ellett, Marroquin City Clerk Wyles, City Manager Sawyer, City Attorney Hoff ABSENT: None

CLOSED SESSION PUBLIC COMMENT
None

CITY COUNCIL CLOSED SESSION
Moved by Marroquin, second by Camarena, to adjourn into closed session for:

CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54957.6
Agency Designated Representative: Patrick Clark
Employee Organization: Firefighters Association, General Employees Unit and Supervisor, Professional, and Technical Employees Unit.

CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – ANTICIPATED LITIGATION
Initiation of litigation pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(4): One potential case Motion carried unanimously.

Closed Session concluded at 5:59 p.m. (All present)
City Council recessed to 6:00 p.m.

OPEN SESSION
The El Centro City Council met in a regular session on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at 6:10 p.m. in Council Chambers, El Centro City Hall, 1275 Main Street, El Centro, California.

PRESENT: Council: Carter, Camarena, Crankshaw, Ellett, Marroquin City Clerk Wyles, City Manager Sawyer, City Attorney Hoff ABSENT: None
Invocation was given by Council Member Carter and Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America was led by Council Member Marroquin.

Book 37

CITY ATTORNEY REPORT ON CLOSED SESSION
No reportable action.

PUBLIC COMMENTS
Public comment was received from Captain Freddy Miranda and Joaquin Zambrano.

PRESENATIONS AND/OR ANNOUNCEMENT BY MAYOR:

1. Presentation by Imperial Irrigation District regarding program updates by Sabrina C. Barber, Assistant Manager, Energy Business & Regulatory Energy Department.

CONSENT AGENDA (ITEM 2-7)
Moved by Camarena, second by Marroquin, approving consent item #2-7.

2. Approval of Warrant Registers for the month of January 2026.

3. Approval of Payroll Registers for the month of January 2026.

4. Approval of Treasurer’s Report for the month of January 2026.

5. Approval of City Council minutes of January 30, 2026, February 3, 2026 and February 11, 2026.

6. Adoption of Resolution No. 26-15, RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EL CENTRO TERMINATING RESOLUTON NO. 25-50 PROCLAIMING A LOCAL EMERGENCY FOR REPAIRS OF THE SEWER LIFT STATION AT 3RD STREET AND ROSS AVENUE IN THE CITY OF EL CENTRO.

7. Approval of payments related to the IID Date Drain “3-D” undergrounding at Countryside Drive.

AYES: Carter, Camarena, Crankshaw, Ellett, Marroquin
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAINED: None

NEW BUSINESS

8. Presentation by Adriana Nava, Community Services Director, discussion and necessary action regarding 2026-2027 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Proposal Received.

SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDED ACTIVITIES

Name of Organization Program Description Amount
Requested
Recommended
Allocation
Catholic Charities - Senior Nutrition Program Food delivery to homebound seniors.

Recommendation that 80% of allocation be utilized
for purchase of food.
$ 25,000 $ 15,000
Catholic Charities – Homeless Day Center Day center designed to cater to the homeless.

Center will provide shelter, bathrooms and
showers, laundry, and supportive services.
$ 25,000 $ 10,410
El Centro PAL
Recreational programs & activities including soccer,
boxing, martial arts, golf, fishing, bowling, tutoring, and mentoring.
$ 15,000 $ 15,000

Book 37

The Salvation Army - Social Services Street based mobile outreach and emergency support services to individuals experiencing
homelessness within the city of El Centro
$ 23,000 $ 10,000
TOTAL $ 88,000 $ 50,410
Council discussed several options for the allocation of the funds and came to a conclusion of the recommended activities to fund.

Comments regarding the program were received from Peter Rodriguez.

Moved by Camarena, second by Carter, as presented by staff, specifically to approve the recommendations for Catholic Charities – Senior Nutrition Program in the amount of $15,000, Catholic Charities, Homeless Day Center in the amount of $10,410, El Centro PAL in the amount of $15,000 and The Salvation Army – Social Services in the amount of $10,000.

AYES: Carter, Camarena, Ellett
NOES: Crankshaw, Marroquin
ABSENT: None
ABSTAINED: None
* Item was moved out of order for discussion by Mayor Crankshaw.

12. Presentation by Adriana Nava, Community Services Director, discussion and related action regarding an extension to the agreement with Catholic Charities Diocese of San Diego for the Working Hands Workforce Development Program. Presentation by Antoinette Fallon, Director of Homeless Services in San Diego. Ms. Fallon explained how this program is run and how many people they have helped.

Total of seven people have been helped. Testimonials were given by Helping Hand Participant Laura and Vanessa.

During the meeting, Mayor Pro-Tem Camarena asked several questions regarding the budget and related expenses, which were addressed by Ms. Fallon. Council Member Ellett also posed a number of questions and requested that the Council be given additional time to review agenda reports, particularly when a holiday precedes a Council meeting.

Motion by Marroquin, second by Carter, to extend the agreement for 120 days with Catholic Charities Diocese of San Diego for Working Hands Workforce Development Program.

AYES: Carter, Crankshaw, Ellett, Marroquin
NOES: Camarena
ABSENT: None
ABSTAINED: None

9. Presentation by Abraham Campos, Public Works Director/City Engineer, approval of plans and specifications for the Imperial Avenue Phase III Project STPL-5169-(063) and authorize staff to release for public bidding.

Mayor Crankshaw asked questions regarding the funding sources for the construction of the project, as well as the appearance of the streets being constructed.

Motion by Marroquin, second by Camarena, approval of plans and specifications for the Imperial Avenue Phase III Project STPL-5169-(063) and authorize staff to release for public bidding.

Book 37

AYES: Carter, Camarena, Crankshaw, Ellett, Marroquin
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAINED: None

10. Presentation by Abraham Campos, Public Works Director/City Engineer, provide direction regarding diagonal parking proposal surrounding Christ Community Church on 5th and 6th Street. For recommendation only.

Mayor Crankshaw has a few concerns regarding diagonal parking on 5th and 6th Street. One of the concerns is safety and visibility when vehicles back into the travel lane. He asked that a traffic study is done before any action is taken from City Council.

Mayor Pro-Tem Camarena had a question regarding the potential concerns regarding the proposed diagonal parking changes to the streets. She asked if there were many crashes along Main Street because of the diagonal parking along the area. Mr. Campos commented that since Main Street is narrow because of the diagonal parking, people tend to drive slower along Main Street.

All council members expressed concerns about adding diagonal parking at these locations. Mr.

Campos stated that visibility would be obstructed for drivers traveling through the area.

Mayor Crankshaw asked Mr. Campos to return with a recommendation after considering all the concerns raised by the Council.

Mr. Campos stated that the Engineering Department will request a traffic study from the applicant before any encroachment permit is issued, and the item will be brought back to the Council for a final decision.

Pastor Nunn commented that he has been waiting for this project for a little less than a year but that Mr. Campos wanted to bring it to City Council for their recommendation. Pastor Nunn commented on all the projects and properties that the church owns and how many programs they offer to the community.

The City Council discussed the item and emphasized the importance of ensuring that all safety guidelines are followed before any final decisions are made. Mr. Campos stated that restriping will occur on 5th and 6th Street, and he will bring the item back to the Council with a final recommendation.

City Manager Sawyer asked City Council to take a vote to proceed the City Council meeting past the 9:00 pm deadline.

Motion made by Marroquin, second by Camarena, to continue the meeting past 9:00 p.m.

AYES: Carter, Camarena, Crankshaw, Ellett, Marroquin
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAINED: None

11. Motion by Marroquin, second by Carter, approval of Plans and Specification for the Tag Alleyway Paving Project and authorize the soliciting of bids.

Book 37

AYES: Carter, Camarena, Crankshaw, Ellett, Marroquin
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAINED: None
*12. Item was move up and discussed after item #8 by Mayor Crankshaw.

13. Moved by Ellett, second by Carter, approving the appointment of Kenneth Gregory to the Personnel Appeals Board with term ending on July 15, 2027.

AYES: Carter, Camarena, Crankshaw, Ellett, Marroquin
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAINED: None

14. Moved by Marroquin, second by Carter, approving the appointment of Jose Moises Carballo to the Library & Community Services Board (non-voting member) with term ending on June 30, 2026.

AYES: Carter, Camarena, Crankshaw, Ellett, Marroquin
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAINED: None

15. Moved by Marroquin, second by Camarena, approving the appointment of Cassandra Gregory to the Friends of El Centro Community Services Foundation Board with term ending on June 30, 2026.

AYES: Carter, Camarena, Crankshaw, Ellett, Marroquin
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAINED: None
LEGISLATIVE ACTION:

None
INFORMATIONAL ITEMS:

16. Received updated Emergency Declaration – WWTP Bar Screen Failure

17. Received certificate of Mailing Notice of Applications to the City, County and Municipal Governmental Agencies made by Southern California Gas Company, regarding approval of its Energy Savings Assistance.

18. Received and referred to Community Development Department, Application for Alcoholic Beverage License-Sara Barragan, Mariscos Culichi, 1427 Adams Ave., El Centro, CA 92243-2009.

TASK FORCE AND MAYOR & COUNCIL MEMBERS REPORTS
Council Members provided updates on their activities since the last City Council meeting and shared information on upcoming events.

CITY MANAGER REPORT
Reported on recent activities.

Book 37

ADJOURNMENT
With no further business the meeting was adjourned at 10:01 p.m. __________________________
Norma Wyles, City Clerk
APPROVED BY:
________________________________
Michael Crankshaw, Mayor

City Council of the City of El Centro
1275 W. Main Street
El Centro, CA 92243

SUBMITTED
ACTION ITEM (ID # 2025-361)
Item: 3.

Meeting: 3/3/2026 3:30 PM
Department: Community Development
Category: Resolution
Prepared by: Angel Hernandez,
Community Development Director
Department Head: Angel Hernandez
DOC ID: 2025-361
Discussion and any necessary action regarding consideration of the Downtown Fee Waiver Program.

CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION:

Adopt Resolution No. 26- , A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF

EL CENTRO ESTABLISHING A FEE WAIVER PROGRAM TO INCENTIVIZE NEW DEVELOPMENT IN THE DOWNTOWN AREA.

FISCAL IMPACT:

If implemented, the Downtown Fee Waiver Program would result in a temporary reduction in revenues generated from planning, building, engineering, and development impact fees.

For reference, historical data from the last five years indicate that affected fee revenues were as high as $41,100 for a single 12-month period. Staff anticipates that any short-term reduction in fee revenue would be partially offset by increased private investment, sales tax generation, improved property values, and long-term economic activity in the Downtown area. No General Fund appropriation is required.

STRATEGIC PLANNING PROGRAM 2022-2027 RELATION:

Economic Opportunity
DUE DILIGENCE CHECK FOR CONTRACTORS/CONSULTANTS: DID THE

DEPARTMENT VERIFY CURRENT EL CENTRO BUSINESS LICENSE,
CONTRACTOR'S LICENSE, REFERENCE CHECKS, INSURANCE, ETC.:

Not Applicable
BACKGROUND:

City Council and staff have been actively advancing economic development policies and programs throughout the City, with a focus on Downtown El Centro. As part of these efforts, the Community Development Department conducted a community engagement campaign during the summer of 2025 to better understand resident and business priorities for the Downtown area.

Survey respondents consistently indicated that the City should offer financial incentives— such as reduced permitting costs—to encourage new businesses and reinvestment downtown. When asked what types of businesses they would like to see, respondents most frequently identified restaurants and cafés, entertainment uses, specialty retail, and arts and cultural establishments.

Like other jurisdictions, the City of El Centro charges fees for services related to the review and approval of development proposals, as well as impact fees that fund public facilities required to serve new development. While these fees are necessary for cost recovery, they can present a barrier to reinvestment in older, infill areas where projects often involve

tenant improvements, adaptive reuse, or smaller-scale development with tighter financial margins.

On October 29, 2025, staff presented the Downtown Ad Hoc Committee with a proposal to establish a temporary, two-year fee waiver program targeted to the Downtown area. At a follow-up meeting on January 15, 2026 specifics regarding eligible uses and fees were discussed with members of the Committee. The Committee expressed support for a focused incentive program that aligns with community priorities and encourages business activity in the City’s core.

DISCUSSION:

Program Area
The proposed Downtown Development Fee Waiver Program would apply exclusively to certain development projects located within the City’s Downtown Area, consisting of parcels along Broadway, Main Street, and State Street between 4th Street and 8th Street, as shown on the map below. The program is intentionally limited to this geographic area to concentrate incentives where reinvestment challenges are greatest and where new development can generate the most visible economic and community benefit.

Program Duration
The program is proposed as a temporary, two-year incentive.

Eligible Uses
The program would apply to the following land uses, which reflect community preferences

and Downtown-oriented business types:
• Art, dance, and music studios and schools
• Bars, nightclubs, breweries, and distilleries
• Business and professional offices (non-medical)
• Commercial recreational facilities
• Event centers
• Museums and cultural centers
• Restaurants, cafés, bakeries, and delicatessens
• Retail shops
Eligible Fees
For qualifying projects, the following City fees would be waived:
• Planning and zoning application fees
• Building permit fees
• Encroachment permit fees
• Grading permit fees
• Development impact fees
All other fees—including business license fees, utility service charges, sales taxes, transient occupancy taxes, State-mandated fees, and fees imposed by other agencies— would continue to apply. Water and sewer capacity fees will also continue to apply. In addition, fees associated with third-party consultant review or materials are expressly excluded from the waiver.

Program Procedure
Applicants interested in being considered for a fee waiver will submit a fee waiver application to the Community Development Department for review. Staff will review the application for consistency with the program guidelines. Once approved, eligible fees associated with the permits will be waived for as long as their permit or permit application is active. In the event that a project's permits expire or their application is deemed inactive after the program period, they will no longer be eligible for the incentive program.

Fiscal Considerations
While the program would result in a temporary reduction in fee revenue, staff believes the potential economic benefits outweigh the short-term fiscal impact. For context, in 2024 and 2025, the affected fee revenues accounted for $31,852 and $33,559, respectively. Since 2021, revenues during the period of April 2022 to March 2023 were as high as $41,100.

During the period surveyed, the majority of revenues were generated from building permit fees (65%), followed by planning and zoning fees (28%), with encroachment permit fees comprising the remaining 7%. It should also be noted that these figures include all project types and do not exclude uses that would otherwise be ineligible for the proposed fee waiver.

The fee waiver is intended to reduce upfront costs and encourage projects that may otherwise be delayed or not pursued, particularly in an area characterized by older buildings and higher redevelopment costs. Any additional fee revenue waived as a result

of increased development activity would be associated with projects that likely would not have occurred without the incentive. Over time, increased occupancy, reinvestment, and business activity are expected to strengthen the Downtown tax base and enhance overall economic vitality.

Furthermore, development impact fees and capacity fees are important sources of revenue funding new facilities from parks, administrative offices, public safety, to sewer and water infrastructure. The purpose of these fees are for new development to pay for public facilities needed to serve. Since buildings and uses in the city's downtown consist of existing infill development, it is expected that projects will have minimal new impacts than what has already been embraced by the city historically in the area.

Program Review
In order to measure and evaluate the impact of the program, staff would submit a report to the City Manager 45 days prior to the program's expiration. The report will include the number of participating projects, amount of fees waived, economic outcomes, and any other information regarding the results of the temporary fee waiver during the fee waiver period.

CONCLUSION:

Adopt Resolution No. 26- , A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF

EL CENTRO ESTABLISHING A FEE WAIVER PROGRAM TO INCENTIVIZE NEW

DEVELOPMENT IN THE DOWNTOWN AREA
ATTACHMENTS:

1. Exhbit A - Resolution and Guidelines

1 11/2025/cdz/A25-0193/Reso/FeeWaiverProg/DowntownArea
RESOLUTION NO. 26-___

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF

EL CENTRO ESTABLISHING A TEMPORARY FEE WAIVER

PROGRAM TO INCENTIVIZE NEW DEVELOPMENT IN THE

DOWNTOWN AREA
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of El Centro (“City Council”) sets fees for the application, review, and to offset impacts related to new development throughout the City of El Centro (“City”); and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to support infill development, encourage the reuse of existing buildings, and facilitate the attraction and expansion of commercial, retail, recreational establishments, and cultural amenities in Downtown El Centro; and WHEREAS, City imposed fees including planning and zoning application fees, building, encroachment, grading permit fees, and development impact fees while necessary for cost recovery, may pose an obstacle for continuing development and business expansion in Downtown El Centro; and
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that the fiscal benefits and community revitalization outcomes derived from new development outweigh the temporary reduction in fee revenue; and WHEREAS, infill development that would be a result of this program are expected to impose minimal new impacts to City services and any new impacts would be offset by increased private investment and property/sales tax revenue; and
WHEREAS, El Centro Municipal Code Sections 7-90, 20-106, 23-38, and 29-276 authorizes certain fees, which the City Council may adjust, defer, or waive .

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of El Centro as follows:

1. The foregoing recitals are true, correct, and incorporated fully herein as findings.

2. The City hereby establishes a Temporary Downtown Development Fee Waiver Program as described in Exhibit A attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference

3. Eligible development projects must be located within the Downtown Area Boundaries identified in Exhibit A, Section 2.A.

4. Eligible development projects consist of the land uses listed in Exhibit A, Section 2.B.

5. Such eligible development projects are entitled to a waiver of the following

2 11/2025/cdz/A25-0193/Reso/FeeWaiverProg/DowntownArea
fees identified in Exhibit A, Section 2.C
• Planning and zoning application fees – Section 29-276(c) of the El Centro Municipal Code
• Building permit fees – Section 7-36 of the El Centro Municipal Code • Encroachment permit fees Section 23-11 of the El Centro Municipal Code • Grading permit fees Section 7-121 of the El Centro Municipal Code • Development impact fees – Section 20-102 of the El Centro Municipal Code

6. Fees or costs for the use of third-party contractors, consultants, or material costs related to the processing of the above are not waived.

7. All other fees, including but not limited to business license fees, water/sewer service charges, water and sewer capacity fees, sales taxes, transient occupancy taxes, or fees imposed on development by other agencies shall continue to apply.

8. Projects shall be eligible for a fee waiver as follows:
a. Eligible Development Projects meaning development, redevelopment, rehabilitation, tenant improvements, changes of use, or special events occurring on private property that are located in the designated program area and consistent with the specified uses that require one or more city issued approval, permit or license during the effective period of the program.
b. Waivers shall only apply for Planning and Zoning applications, Grading Permits applications, Building Permit applications, and Encroachment Permit applications, and Development Impact fees, in which a fee waiver application is submitted and deemed complete on or after April 1, 2026 and on or before April 1, 2028.

9. The Program shall terminate on April 1, 2028, without further action by the City Council.

10. Within 45 calendar days of the expiration of the temporary fee waiver program, the Community Development Director shall submit a report to the City Manager regarding the number of participating projects, amount and type of fees waived, economic outcomes, and any other information regarding the results of the temporary fee waiver program during the fee waiver period.

3 11/2025/cdz/A25-0193/Reso/FeeWaiverProg/DowntownArea
PASSED AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of El Centro, California, held on the

day of

, 2026.

CITY OF EL CENTRO
By:_____________________________
Michael Crankshaw, Mayor
ATTEST:

By: ___________________________
Norma Wyles, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:

OFFICE OF THE CITY ATTORNEY
By:_____________________________
Joanna Hoff, City Attorney

STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF IMPERIAL ) ss

CITY OF EL CENTRO )
I, Norma Wyles, City Clerk of the City of El Centro, California, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution No. 26-____ was duly and regularly adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of El Centro, California, held on the day of , 2026, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAINED:

By________________________________
Norma Wyles, City Clerk

4 11/2025/cdz/A25-0193/Reso/FeeWaiverProg/DowntownArea
Exhibit A
Temporary Downtown Development Fee Waiver Program
Section 1 – Overview of Program
A. Purpose, Goal and Objectives of Program
The purpose of the Temporary Downtown Development Fee Waiver Program (“Program”) is to support economic development, business retention, and expansion efforts for specifically identified uses consistent with the City of El Centro’s Strategic Plan and General Plan. This Program intends to reduce financial barriers to establishing such specific new businesses, encourage private property investment, and support innovative business concepts in the Downtown area.

B. Program Duration
Applications for participation in this Program must be submitted and complete on or before April 1, 2028 (“Program Period”). Applications submitted after this date or submitted incomplete shall not be eligible for this Program.

It is the intent of this Program that applicants benefiting from any fee waiver will act upon their approvals and permits in a timely manner. Any permits or applications for which fees were waived but subsequently expire after the conclusion of the Program shall not be eligible for continued or additional fee waivers.

Section 2 – Program Requirements
A. Eligible Area
Qualified projects shall be located within the Downtown area, consisting of parcels along Broadway, Main Street, and State Street between 4th Street and 8th Street, as shown on the map below.

5 11/2025/cdz/A25-0193/Reso/FeeWaiverProg/DowntownArea
B. Eligible Development Projects
Eligible development projects shall consist of the following land uses:
• Art, dance, and music studios and schools
• Bars, nightclubs, breweries, and distilleries
• Business and professional offices (non-medical)
• Commercial recreational facilities (establishments that provide recreational, entertainment, or leisure activities to the general public for a fee or membership, and that are operated as for-profit businesses. Examples include but are not limited to escape rooms, bowling alley, or gaming arcades.) • Event centers
• Gyms and health clubs
• Museums and cultural centers
• Restaurants, cafés, bakeries, and delicatessens
• Retail shops
C. Eligible Fees
The following fees shall be eligible for waiver for qualified development projects:
• Planning and zoning application fees – Section 29-276(c) of the El Centro Municipal Code
• Building permit application fees - Section 7-36 of the El Centro Municipal Code • Encroachment permit application fees – Section 23-11 of the El Centro Municipal Code
• Grading permit application fees – Section 7-121 of the El Centro Municipal Code • Development impact fees – Section 20-103 of the El Centro Municipal Code D. Non-Eligible Fees
Fees not listed in Section 2.C are not included in this Program. In addition, any thirdparty costs incurred by the City for consultant services, contractor services, or materials related to processing an application are not exempt from payment and will not be waived pursuant to this Program. This includes plan check fees for services performed by City consultants.

All other fees—including, but not limited to, business license fees, State Earthquake Fees, SB 1473 Fees, water/sewer service charges, water/sewer capacity fees, sales taxes, transient occupancy taxes, and any fees imposed by other local and state agencies—shall continue to apply.

6 11/2025/cdz/A25-0193/Reso/FeeWaiverProg/DowntownArea
Section 3 – Program Procedures
A. Fee Waiver Application Submittal
Applicants shall complete a Fee Waiver Application prior to submitting a development application. The Fee Waiver Application shall be provided by the Community Development Department and will list all required information necessary to determine eligibility.

Applicants are encouraged to meet with the Community Development Department prior to submitting a Fee Waiver Application to confirm Program eligibility and any information, materials and documents necessary to evaluate the Fee Waiver Application before preparing development application submittals.

B. Verification of Eligibility by Staff
The Community Development Director, or designee, shall review the Fee Waiver Application for consistency with this Program, including land use and location requirements. The Community Development Director may request additional information beyond what is listed in the Fee Waiver Application to make an eligibility determination.

If, after review, the project is determined to be ineligible, the Community Development Director shall issue written documentation to the applicant stating the reasons for ineligibility. If the applicant disagrees with the determination, the applicant may appeal the decision to the City Manager. The determination of the City Manager shall be final and shall constitute the City’s final administrative action.

C. Complete Fee Waiver Application
Upon receipt of a Fee Waiver Application, the Community Development Department shall review the Fee Waiver Application to determine whether it is complete. A Fee Waiver Application shall not be considered complete until it is determined by the Community Development Department that all required information, materials and documents necessary to evaluate the Fee Waiver Application have been submitted.

When the Community Development Department determines that a Fee Waiver Application is eligible for this Program and is complete, the Community Development Department shall provide written confirmation to the applicant. The date of such written confirmation shall constitute the date on which the Fee Waiver Application is deemed complete for purposes of processing under this Program.

A determination that a Fee Waiver Application is complete does not constitute approval of the application.

7 11/2025/cdz/A25-0193/Reso/FeeWaiverProg/DowntownArea
D. Fee Waiver Approval or Denial
Following a determination that the Fee Waiver Application is complete, the Community Development Department shall process the application, which shall include, but not be limited to, review and evaluation of the application for consistency with the requirements of this Program. Staff may conduct site inspections or request clarification of previously submitted materials.

The Community Development Director may approve or deny a Fee Waiver Application.

If the Fee Waiver Application is determined to be denied, the Community Development Director shall issue written documentation to the applicant stating the reasons for the denial. If the applicant disagrees with the determination, the applicant may appeal the decision to the City Manager. The determination of the City Manager shall be final and shall constitute the City’s final administrative action.

If the Fee Waiver Application is determined to be approved, the Community Development Director shall issue a written approval for the waived fees pursuant to this Program. The written approval shall include:
• Applicant name and business name
• Street address and Assessor’s Parcel Number (APN)
• Description of the project’s land use
• Development approvals requested
• Description of the fees and the amount that is to be waived E. Tracking and Reporting of Waiver
The Community Development Director shall maintain records of all approved Fee Waiver Applications, including the category and amount of fees waived throughout the Program Period. Records shall include any information required by the Finance Department.

City Council of the City of El Centro
1275 W. Main Street
El Centro, CA 92243

SUBMITTED
ACTION ITEM (ID # 2026-31)
Item: 4.

Meeting: 3/3/2026 3:30 PM
Department: Community Services
Category: Action Item
Prepared by: Omar Negrete, Engineer
Department Head: Adriana Nava
DOC ID: 2026-31
Award of Bid and authorize a contract for the Embellece (Beautify) El Centro Downtown Beautification Project, funded by California Department of Transportation (Caltrans).

CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION:

Adopt Resolution No. 26- , RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF

EL CENTRO AWARDING THE BID AND AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A

CONTRACT FOR EMBELLECE (BEAUTIFY) EL CENTRO DOWNTOWN
BEAUTIFICATION PROJECT.

FISCAL IMPACT:

In 2023, a Clean California Grant was sought by City Staff and was awarded in the amount of $4,782,000. The grant included funding for the following activities:

INFRASTRUCTURE ($4,477,000)
• Renovation of Town Square- Installation of artifical turf, concrete, and related electrical improvements
• Installation of ten Big Belly Trash Receptacles
• Installation of sixteen park benches along Main Street from 4th through 8th Streets • Installation of new gateway sign on Main/8th Street
• Renovation of sign on Main/4th Street
• Installation of eighteen stormwater curb inlets
Infrastructure items were grouped as follows:

Construction Items & Contingencies $3,927,000
Preliminary Engineering (Design) $350,000
Construction Engineering $200,000
Total $4,477,000
The construction bid received from Nielsen Construction California, Inc. is in the amount of $4,002,000 and does not include a project contingency (10% of construction costs). The bid exceeds the grant funding allocated for construction.

Accordingly, staff recommends funding the 10% project contingency ($400,200), along with the remaining construction shortfall, through Measure P in the total amount of $475,200.

Bid Amount & Contingencies $4,402,200
Construction Items & Contingencies (Grant ($3,927,000)

Estimate)
Shortfall $475,200
NON-INFRASTRUCTURE ($305,000)
• Completion of three murals at distinct locations ($45,000) • Security Services at Town Square for a 12-month period after construction ($190,000)
• Hosting of Downtown Special Events ($70,000)
The bid documents included herein pertain solely to the infrastructure components of the project. The non-infrastructure components will be procured separately due to the specialized expertise required.

STRATEGIC PLANNING PROGRAM 2022-2027 RELATION:

Recreation & Lifelong Learning
Economic Opportunity
City Beautification, Engagement & Civic Pride
DUE DILIGENCE CHECK FOR CONTRACTORS/CONSULTANTS: DID THE

DEPARTMENT VERIFY CURRENT EL CENTRO BUSINESS LICENSE,
CONTRACTOR'S LICENSE, REFERENCE CHECKS, INSURANCE, ETC.:

Nielsen Construction California, Inc. has an active City of El Centro Business License. A State Contractor License Check was completed for the Prime Contractor, Nielsen Construction, and all subcontractors and all licenses were valid and clear.

BACKGROUND:

Recognizing the importance of a vibrant, welcoming, and economically strong downtown, the City of El Centro has remained committed to enhancing the downtown corridor through collaborative partnerships with residents, stakeholders, and local merchants.

In 2023, staff identified the Clean California Grant Program as a strategic funding opportunity aligned with the Downtown Ad Hoc Committee’s beautification goals. This competitive statewide program, administered by Caltrans, supports projects that enhance and beautify streets and public spaces throughout California.

Prior to submitting the grant application, City staff conducted multiple community engagement sessions to gather feedback from residents and stakeholders regarding signage preferences, design elements, and overall aesthetic improvements for the downtown area. This outreach ensured the proposal reflected community priorities and strengthened the City’s application.

The City was subsequently awarded $4.78 million in Clean California funding, selected as one of only 42 awardees statewide out of 230 applicants.

DISCUSSION:

Following the award, the City engaged COAR Design Group, an on-call architectural firm based in San Diego, to develop design concepts and cost estimates consistent with the approved grant scope. In June 2025, COAR Design Group presented the proposed

downtown signage and Town Square improvements to the City Council. The conceptual vision and direction were approved by Council at that time.

The project was advertised for bid on December 2, 2025, and a bid opening was conducted on January 13, 2026, at the City Clerk’s Office. The City received one bid, submitted by Nielsen Construction, a local contractor, in the amount of $4,002,000. After review, staff determined the bid to be responsive and responsible.

The original construction estimate included in the grant application was $3,927,000, inclusive of contingency. The submitted bid exceeds the originally allocated construction amount.

To address the funding gap, staff recommends allocating $475,200 from Measure P to cover the project shortfall. Historically, prior to voter approval of Measure P, staff seldom pursued grant opportunities due to the lack of available local funds to cover contingencies and cost overruns. Measure P was proposed in part to provide a reliable local funding source that could be used to leverage and support grant applications.

The ballot initiative stated:
“Shall Ordinance No. 16-05A be adopted amending the El Centro Municipal Code in Article III, Sections 25-46-56.3 approving a one-half cent transactions and use tax in addition to the current sales tax rate (raising $5.5 million annually until June 30, 2047) to maintain general City services and facilities, including police, fire protection, library, parks and recreation, senior programs, and street maintenance and upgrades?”
It should also be noted that the base bid submitted by Nielsen Construction does not include the proposed shade structures. The cost to include the shade structures is $165,000. Should Council wish to incorporate the shade structures into the project, additional funding would need to be identified.

The attached resolution awards the construction contract to Nielsen Construction in the amount of $4,002,000 and establishes a construction contingency of $400,200. Should change orders exceed the established contingency, staff will return to Council for further direction and approval.

CONCLUSION:

Staff is recommending the award of a bid to Nielsen Construction in the amount of $4,002,000.00 via approval of Resolution No. 26- , RESOLUTION OF THE CITY

COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EL CENTRO AWARDING THE BID AND AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A CONTRACT FOR Embellece (Beautify) El Centro Downtown Beautification Project.

ATTACHMENTS:

1. BID REVIEW CHECKS v2

2. Nielsen Construction - Bid Rcvd. 1-13-2026

3. Embellece Resolution_2-25-26

ITEM CONTRACTOR #01
Nielsen Construction
Base bid amount (Basis of
award) $4,002,000.00
CONTRACTOR #02
NA
NA
Proposal/Bid Form Included/ complete NA NA NA
Bid Bond Included/ complete NA NA NA
Proposal Agreement Included/ complete NA NA NA
Workers’ Compensation
Certificate Included/ complete NA NA NA
Drug/Alcohol Testing
Requirements Included/ complete NA NA NA
Subcontractor’s Listing Included/ complete NA NA NA
Non-collusion Declaration Included/ complete NA NA NA
For Corporation Included/ complete NA NA NA
Corporate Certification or
Partnership Information Included/ complete NA NA NA
Contractor’s Certification
of Qualification for License
Classification
Included/ complete NA NA NA
DIR# REG/EXP DATE
REG: 2025-07-01
EXP: 2026-06-30

SUBCONTRACTORS
REG: 7/1/2025
EXP: 6/30/2026
REG:2025-07-01
EXP:2028-06-30
REG:2025-07-01
EXP:2028-06-30
REG:2025-07-01
EXP:2028-06-30
REG:2025-07-01
EXP:2026-06-30
REG:2025-07-01
EXP:2027-06-30
REG:2024-07-01
EXP:2026-06-30
REG: 2025-07-01
EXP: 2026-06-30
REG: 2025-07-01
EXP: 2028-06-30
REG: 2024-07-01
EXP: 2026-06-30

STATE CONTRACTOR LICENSE / EPLS CHECKS &

DEPARTMENT OF INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS REGISTRATION CHECKS

EMBELLECE TOWN SQUARE EL CENTRO BEAUTIFICATION PROJECT
For purposes of this document, one bid was received on January 13, 2026 the only bid received is being reviewed below.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION
CONTRACTOR #03
NA
NA

BID AMOUNTS
Nielsen Construction 826911 1000001131 Valid/clear
PRIME CONTRACTOR SCL# VALID / INVALID DIR CHECK
1000003173 Valid/clear
Mechanical Industries 688070 1000023059 Valid/clear
Onyx Inc. 957645
Radco Inc. Brawley CA 1859138
Valid/clear
Simmons & Wood.

Lakeside, CA 272910 1000000488 Valid/clear
1000004799
E. L. Hobbs Inc. 777073 1000004428 Valid/clear
Sign Factory 985388 1000023447 Valid/clear
Burnworth Inc. 987715 1000013506 Valid/clear
All Valley Fencing Inc. 1081672 1000736400 Valid/clear
Roofing ACCI 840297 1000002422 Valid/clear
Red One Electric Inc. 907481 1000771775 Valid/clear

01/2026/cdz/A26-0027/Reso/AwardBid/EmbelleceDowntownBeautProj RESOLUTION NO. 26-

RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EL

CENTRO AWARDING THE BID AND AUTHORIZING THE

EXECUTION OF A CONTRACT FOR EMBELLECE EL

CENTRO DOWNTOWN BEAUTIFICATION PROJECT
WHEREAS, the plans and specifications have been adopted by the City Council of the City of El Centro, California (the “City Council”) and the notice inviting bids has been advertised as required by section 2-185.15 of the City of El Centro (the “City”) Municipal Code for the Embellece El Centro Downtown Beautification Project; and WHEREAS, one (1) bid was received and opened on January 13, 2026, in accordance with law, and the Director of Community Services has made a report thereon; and WHEREAS, the City Council has considered the report of the Director of Community Services and, as a result, has determined that the one (1) bid submitted by Nielsen Construction California, Inc. was the lowest responsive and responsible bid in the total amount of four million two thousand dollars and zero cents ($4,002,000.00); and WHEREAS, the City Council finds that the award and approval of a contract with Nielsen Construction California, Inc. for the Project will be in the best interest of the City.

NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EL CENTRO, CALIFORNIA, DOES HEREBY RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:

1. That the foregoing recitals are true, correct and incorporated fully herein as findings.

2. That the City Council hereby accepts the bid of Nielsen Construction California, Inc. for the Project as the lowest responsive and responsible bid.

3. That the City Manager is hereby authorized to execute a contract with Nielsen Construction California, Inc. for the Project in the total amount of four million two thousand dollars and zero cents ($4,002,000.00), a copy of which is on file in the Office of the City Clerk, on behalf of the City.

4. That the City Council hereby establishes a construction contingency fund of four hundred thousand, two hundred dollars and zero cents ($400,200.00), for the Project.

5. That the City Manager is further authorized to approve and execute any change orders for the Project up to an amount of four hundred thousand, two hundred dollars and zero cents ($400,200.00), individually or collectively, as needed for unanticipated construction contingencies and is required to report all change orders to the City Council as soon as practical.

6. That the City Council shall approve any change order that either individually exceeds the single change order amount or in combination with other approved change orders

01/2026/cdz/A26-0027/Reso/AwardBid/EmbelleceDowntownBeautProj exceed the amount established as the construction contingency fund for the Project as set forth herein.

7. That the contract for the Project shall be reviewed and approved as to form by the City Attorney prior to execution and placed on file in the Office of the City Clerk.

PASSED AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of El Centro, California, held on the day of , 2026.

CITY OF EL CENTRO
By _______________________
Michael Crankshaw, Mayor
ATTEST:

By ____________________________
Norma Wyles, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:

Office of the City Attorney
By _______________________________
Joanna Hoff, City Attorney

STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF IMPERIAL ) ss

CITY OF EL CENTRO )
I, Norma Wyles, City Clerk of the City of El Centro, California, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution No. 26- was duly and regularly adopted a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of El Centro, California, held on the day of ,2026 by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAINED:

By__________________________
Norma Wyles, City Clerk

City Council of the City of El Centro
1275 W. Main Street
El Centro, CA 92243

SUBMITTED
ACTION ITEM (ID # 2026-59)
Item: 5.

Meeting: 3/3/2026 3:30 PM
Department: Community Services
Category: Action Item
Prepared by: Adriana Nava,
Community Services Director
Department Head: Adriana Nava
DOC ID: 2026-59
Discussion and direction regarding Proposed Half-Court Basketball Court at Legacy Ranch Subdivision.

CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION:

Discussion and direction regarding the proposed half-court basketball court to be constructed at Legacy Park.

FISCAL IMPACT:

The estimated project costs are $100,000 and will be paid for with Measure P Funds.

STRATEGIC PLANNING PROGRAM 2022-2027 RELATION:

Recreation & Lifelong Learning
DUE DILIGENCE CHECK FOR CONTRACTORS/CONSULTANTS: DID THE

DEPARTMENT VERIFY CURRENT EL CENTRO BUSINESS LICENSE,
CONTRACTOR'S LICENSE, REFERENCE CHECKS, INSURANCE, ETC.:

The due diligence process will be completed prior to award of project.

BACKGROUND:

Legacy Park is located at 3900 Arthur Hennessy Court and is part of the Legacy Landscape and Lighting District. The park is 1.5 acres in size, with a playground, covered gazebo with picnic tables, large natural turf area, walking paths, benches and is lighted at night. The City is responsible for the maintenance of the park through the Landscape and Lighting District. A half-court basketball court is being proposed to be constructed at Legacy Park. With the success of the newly built basketball court at Buena Vista Park, city staff sought input from the residents who live within the district to obtain their input to see whether they would like a basketball court built at Legacy Park.

An online survey was completed by the city via Survey Monkey. Although some residents were opposed to the basketball court, a large majority (70%) of the residents welcomed the idea of a basketball court be built at Legacy Park. The results of the survey are attached for review.

From visual inspection of the neighborhood, photographs were taken of twelve basketball goals within the Legacy Subdivision. There are additional goals throughout the neighborhood, potentially five or six goals. There are three on the same block as the park on Charles Elmore Drive alone.

As it relates to project design, the proposed court will be circular in shape with back-toback goals to allow more residents to be able to play at the same time while maintaining a small footprint, therefore still leaving a large natural turf area for residents to enjoy. The court will be constructed of high-strength concrete and will be painted two different colors to add an aesthetic look to the court. The City has had great success with new basketball

courts recently built at Carlos Aguilar, McGee and Buena Vista Parks. No new lighting will be constructed for the new court.

DISCUSSION:

Currently, Legacy Park includes a playground designed for children ages 5–12, a shaded picnic area, and a large natural turf area that residents use for informal play and exercise.

However, the park does not offer amenities specifically geared toward teens and young adults.

The nearest basketball court is located at Buena Vista Park, more than a mile away. Staff have observed several portable basketball hoops set up throughout the neighborhood, with youth frequently playing in the street.

Constructing the proposed half-court basketball court at Legacy Park would provide a safe and accessible space for teens to recreate, helping to keep them out of the street and reducing potential safety concerns. This improvement would significantly enhance the park’s functionality and ensure that Legacy Park continues to serve as a valuable recreational asset for the surrounding community.

CONCLUSION:

Staff is requesting direction from the City Council on whether to proceed with construction of the basketball court at Legacy Park.

ATTACHMENTS:

1. Data_All_260120

2. Data_Q3_260120

3. LEGACY PARK 2.0

4. Legacy Ranch Neighborhood Photos Demonstrating Need

5. Legacy Park Photographs

Legacy Ranch Memorial District Survey
1 / 4
Q1 Do you live within the Legacy Ranch residential development? Answered: 63 Skipped: 0
Yes
No
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 10…
Answer Choices Percentage Responses
Yes 93.65% 59
No 6.35% 4
Total 63

Legacy Ranch Memorial District Survey
2 / 4
Q2 Would you like a half-court basketball court added to the Legacy Ranch Park
Answered: 63 Skipped: 0
Yes
No
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
Answer Choices Percentage Responses
Yes 69.84% 44
No 30.16% 19
Total 63

Legacy Ranch Memorial District Survey
3 / 4
Q3 Please share any thoughts, suggestions, or concerns about the proposal?
Answered: 46 Skipped: 17

Legacy Ranch Memorial District Survey
4 / 4
Q4 If built, how likely are you(or your household) to use the half-basketball court?
Answered: 63 Skipped: 0
Very likely
Somewhat likely
Very unlikely
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 10…
Answer Choices Percentage Responses
Very likely 55.56% 35
Somewhat likely 11.11% 7
Very unlikely 33.33% 21
Total 63

Legacy Ranch Memorial District Survey
1 / 3
Q3 Please share any thoughts, suggestions, or concerns about the proposal?
Answered: 46 Skipped: 17
# RESPONSES DATE
1 Please add the basketball court. Our kids need it! 1/15/2026 6:32 PM 2 Really appreciate the opportunity to have the basketball courts installed. Agree with the location of the courts.
1/15/2026 12:31 AM
3 It's a great idea. 1/13/2026 3:15 PM
4 Wonderful Idea 1/13/2026 3:05 PM
5 Want the courts, would be awesome to have! Perfect for pick up games or just getting some shots in.
1/13/2026 9:36 AM
6 NA 1/12/2026 3:18 PM
7 Nice idea to keep the kids active 1/12/2026 8:59 AM
8 Go for it 1/11/2026 8:11 PM
9 I think it’s great for the kids to have! 1/11/2026 12:14 PM 10 NA 1/9/2026 8:32 PM
11 Very helpful for our teenage era 1/9/2026 7:51 PM
12 Although adding a half-court basketball court to the park could be a positive enhancement for the community, I have several concerns regarding the proposed location. I live directly across the street from where the court is planned, and the area is extremely close to the roadway.

Many children use the park, often unsupervised, and because basketball is a high-motion sport, I am concerned that a child may chase a ball into the street. Drivers regularly travel at high speeds along Charles Elmore Drive, and there are currently no speed bumps or posted speed-limit signs to slow traffic. Additionally, the park is frequently used by multiple youth sports teams throughout the year, including football, soccer, and softball/baseball. The proposed basketball court would reduce the limited open space available for other children and residents to use when practices are happening. The suggested location is also only a few steps away from a nearby home. Although it is not my residence, I am concerned about the potential for damage to the property, such as basketballs striking the fence or windows. Similar incidents have already occurred. Increased foot traffic in this area is another concern. Children who currently visit the park often leave trash behind, and additional use could worsen litter and noise issues, especially since the park lights remain on late into the evening. I would also like to note that the park and its landscaping are not maintained as they should be. Vegetation is overgrown along the fence lines, trees are not flourishing , and there are large dirt patches throughout the grass areas. My concern is that construction of the basketball court may further dry out or damage the remaining grass. While I believe a basketball court could be a great addition to the park and its residents, I respectfully suggest that an alternative location be considered. One possible area is the ramada section, which is rarely used and where the benches are not well maintained.
1/9/2026 5:39 PM
13 Don't want unwanted clvisitors 1/9/2026 9:17 AM
14 No parking area are enough for this kind of develoments, visitors will obviously parking front of my house. Please let us live in peace. We will be at the Board meeting and reject this approval.
1/9/2026 8:54 AM
15 It's a quiet neighborhood, and a basketball court would be very noisy and could attract gangs, and not enough parking space.
1/9/2026 8:51 AM
16 Outsiders will be coming, loud noise 1/9/2026 8:22 AM

Legacy Ranch Memorial District Survey
2 / 3
17 It would be a sore eye for the park. Proposed design looks nice, but I'm afraid it will get out of hand.
1/9/2026 7:44 AM
18 Noise and disorder with teens not from this area 1/9/2026 6:47 AM 19 It would be great so the boys don't have to play in the street 1/9/2026 5:38 AM 20 Legancy Ranch is known as a very quiet and calm please to live, this will bring to much noisy and complaining from the residents.
1/8/2026 10:50 PM
21 I feel this would attract a lot of unwanted visitors from outside the neighborhood. My daughters currently play at this park and lots of neighborhood kids use it to practice and play. We don't need this here.
1/8/2026 10:49 PM
22 Park is really nice as it is, kids playin and running around free 1/8/2026 10:49 PM 23 Definitely not, my home is west side of the park, one window was broke and we cover the cost, outsiders are here all the time, a lot of trainers coming from others subdivisions and left trash, water bottles, noise, and disturbing our tranquility, balls all the time hitting the wood fence. We are against this initiative and please don't promote this basketball court, for us will be problematic.
1/8/2026 10:14 PM
24 They will park at our houses,and people tend to leave trash everywhere and make loud noises and disturb the neighbors
1/8/2026 10:05 PM
25 We leave in a quiet residential area, sometimes people use the park for baseball, football training and generates alot of traffic, parked cars in houses near by, they leave trash in the park...that basketaball court will be used for training not for playing...that is why my No vote. 1/8/2026 10:01 PM
26 My address is 249 Charles Elmore (West side of the proposed court), a lot of baseball balls and football ball landing at my home, people all the time are bothering us asking for balls, one window was broken, cost me 500 dlls the repair, all this invade my privacy, the thing all these people training in this park not belong to this community and are not residents of this subdivision, trash, water bottles, dog poop, etc.. are always left by visitors, I'm not agree to this proposal and we don't want more outsiders.
1/8/2026 9:55 PM
27 Full court would be best 1/8/2026 9:41 PM
28 Will be too noisy, traffic, safety and liability. Property value will drop 1/8/2026 9:39 PM 29 Full court 1/8/2026 9:34 PM
30 It’s a great opportunity for our kiddos 1/8/2026 9:34 PM 31 If possible a full court would be better. 1/8/2026 9:32 PM 32 I live right in front of the proposed location, adding basketball courts will take away a significant large green area of our park that kids use to run and play. The suggested location is also next to the bust stop and will reduce parking significantly for all residents in this block which is already a concern. Another issue is traffic safety, the courts would be next to the street where there are no speed bumps, speed limit signs or slow down signs raising safety concerns. The park is already utilized on many occasions for soccer practices, football practices and other sports thereby limiting and reducing even further the grass areas were children can play. Constant noise from shouting, bouncing balls and other is also an issue. In addition this has the potential to decrease property values next or adjacent to this location. 1/8/2026 9:30 PM
33 Preferably full court. Our boys love it! 1/8/2026 9:30 PM 34 Full court would be better than 2 half courts. 1/8/2026 9:25 PM 35 This would be awesome for our kids in this area. Thank you for your support. Full court instead of two half courts would be better
1/8/2026 9:12 PM
36 Recommending a full court instead of two 1/2 courts similar to the one in the Miramontes division newly developed park.
1/8/2026 9:10 PM
37 Several kids in the neighborhood have back boards set up along the street and have to stop and start with traffic. This would add a safety factor for neighborhood children! 1/8/2026 8:23 PM
38 Someone needs to make sure it is monitored and kept clean, and that the children are following the rules
1/8/2026 8:22 PM

Legacy Ranch Memorial District Survey
3 / 3
39 It’s a perfect idea I’ve been wanting one ever since I moved here. 1/8/2026 8:21 PM 40 This is fantastic! As a Charles Elmore resident we would greatly welcome this addition to the park. I would want to ensure the sprinklers are adjusted appropriately so the courts aren’t wet and unusable during peak watering months.
1/8/2026 8:19 PM
41 More trees for shade would be helpful for the summer months. Swings for the smaller kids would also be great since we have a community with young kids. 1/8/2026 5:11 PM
42 Soccer is a more widely played sport in the neighborhood. They need the grassy area to play and practice. Residents with teenagers tend to half courts in their driveways, that has been working out for the neighborhood
1/8/2026 4:25 PM
43 Yes, the playground also need a upgrade BADLY! Never been upgrades since I bought my house! Also, we should also have swings/etc.. currently, it have sand that have alot of feces from cats & dogs that have ring warms that it is not healthy for our children's to play in. 1/8/2026 3:02 PM
44 Kids will have a safe place to play instead of the street. 1/8/2026 2:59 PM 45 I think this is a great idea. The park unfortunately is been used for kids on bikes that destroy the grass. So to put a basketball court for kids to play a sport is great. 1/8/2026 2:44 PM
46 I like the idea. 1/8/2026 2:30 PM

CHARLES ELMORE DR.

Legacy Ranch Neighborhood Photos Demonstrating Need

Legacy Park Photographs

City Council of the City of El Centro
1275 W. Main Street
El Centro, CA 92243

SUBMITTED
ACTION ITEM (ID # 2026-66)
Item: 6.

Meeting: 3/3/2026 3:30 PM
Department: Community Services
Category: Action Item
Prepared by: Omar Negrete, Engineer
Department Head: Adriana Nava
DOC ID: 2026-66
Eddie White Complex Frazier Field Parking Lot - Change Order Approval CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION:

1. Approve Change Order No. 3 in the amount of $38,106.00 for additional pavement improvements consisting of crack seal and slurry seal application.

2. Authorize the transfer of $16,524.47 from the Frazier Field Improvements Project to the Eddie White Complex – Frazier Field Parking Lot Project to cover the amount exceeding the remaining contingency balance.

FISCAL IMPACT:

The total amount of Change Order No. 3 is $38,106.00. The project contingency balance currently available is $21,581.53. This leaves a remaining balance of $16,524.47, which will be funded through a budget transfer from the Frazier Field Improvements Project. This action will not increase the overall General Fund obligation but will reallocate existing project funds to complete the scope of work efficiently and prevent deferred maintenance.

STRATEGIC PLANNING PROGRAM 2022-2027 RELATION:

City Beautification, Engagement & Civic Pride
DUE DILIGENCE CHECK FOR CONTRACTORS/CONSULTANTS: DID THE

DEPARTMENT VERIFY CURRENT EL CENTRO BUSINESS LICENSE,
CONTRACTOR'S LICENSE, REFERENCE CHECKS, INSURANCE, ETC.:

The Contractor is Pyramid Construction and due diligence was completed during the award of bid process. Staff confirms that completion of this work at this stage is operationally efficient and cost-effective.

BACKGROUND:

The Eddie White Complex – Frazier Field Parking Lot Project primarily consisted of the construction of a new parking lot and related site improvements. The slurry seal work proposed under Change Order No. 3 does not apply to the newly constructed parking lot.

Instead, it applies to the existing adjacent parking lot, which was not part of the original reconstruction scope and is currently in deteriorated condition. The existing parking area exhibits surface wear, cracking, and oxidation consistent with aged asphalt pavement.

Given that it is directly adjacent to the newly constructed parking lot, staff determined that addressing the surface condition of the existing lot at this time would provide a more uniform facility condition and prevent accelerated deterioration. While this work was not included in the original bid documents, completing it now provides operational efficiency, cost savings in mobilization, and better long-term asset preservation.

The new parking lot, located directly north of the ballfields, was funded using Rule 310 Air Pollution Control District funds. These funds may only be used for areas that are currently unpaved, which is why staff did not originally include other parking lots as part of the grant

project.

DISCUSSION:

The proposed Change Order No. 3 includes:
• Crack sealing of existing pavement
• Surface preparation (sweep and cleaning)
• Two-coat slurry seal application
• Re-striping to match existing layout
Performing this work now prevents accelerated pavement deterioration, reduces future maintenance costs, and protects the City’s recent capital investment. Although the remaining contingency balance is $21,581.53, the total cost of this change order exceeds the available amount by $16,524.47. Staff proposes transferring this amount from the Frazier Field Improvements Project, which has sufficient available funds. This internal reallocation allows the City to complete the pavement preservation work without delaying the project or initiating a separate future contract.

CONCLUSION:

Staff recommends approval of Change Order No. 3 and authorization of the proposed budget transfer will allow the City to complete necessary pavement preservation improvements, extend the lifespan of the parking lot, and protect the overall investment in the Eddie White Complex – Frazier Field Parking Lot Project.Staff recommends approval.

ATTACHMENTS:

1. Change Order No 03

2. 2.9.26 Frazier Field RFCO

Contractor (Original)
City Clerk (Original)
Project File (Copy)

CITY OF EL CENTRO
Contract Change Order
No. 3
Date:02/24/2026
Sheet 1 of 1
Account No(s): 26051100 -
750040,
Eddie White-Frazier Field Parking Lot Project
Original Contract Time 90 c. days Original Contract Price $ 362,403.85 Previously added time 0 c. days Previous Change Orders $ 10,688.00 Requested time this CO c. days This Change Order $ 38,106.00 Revised Contract Time 90 c. days Revised Contract Price $411,197.85 Pyramid Construction. (Contractor). You are hereby directed to make the herein described changes from the plans and specifications and/or add/deduct the following described work not included in the plans and specifications of this contract.

Construction Start Date: Jan 06, 2026 Revised Date of Completion: April 06, 2026 Description of Work: Basis of Payment:

Item No. Item Description Unit Quantity Unit Price Amount Agreed Lump Sum 1 Crack Seal & Slurry
Work to Include:

Sweep & Clean parki
Crack Seal
(2) Coats slurry seal
Striping back to exist
LS 1

$38,106.00 $38,106.00 Negotiated Unit Price
Extra Work as provided
in Section
___________ of the
Standard Specification
TOTAL: $38,106.00
(Attach additional description page if required. If appropriate, note if item is eligible for federal aid) I, the undersigned contractor, have given careful consideration to the work proposed and hereby agree, if this proposal is approved, that payment for these change order items shall provide full compensation for all equipment, materials, labor, field and home office overhead, indirect and consequential costs, mark-ups and profit necessary to complete the work. By executing this contract change order, I agree to proceed with this work as a change order per section 3-2.1 of the Standard Specifications for Public Works Construction (2015 edition) and waive any rights to additional compensation arising out of work listed in this change order, including without limitation, any claims relating to any cumulative effect of change orders, delays, productivity impact or interruption.

Contract Price: Increase Decrease
Total cost of changes not to exceed: $38,106.00
Submittal by: ________________________________ 02-24-2026 Omar Negrete – C.S. Inspector Date
Approval
Recommended:

Adriana Nava, Community Services
Director
Date
Director of Finance:

Elizabeth Fuchen –Interim Finance
Director
Date
Date: 02-24-2026 Approved:

Pyramid Construction
Robert Sawyer – City Manager Date
By: Darryl Dickerson Within Approved Council Contract Award contingency limits? (President) Yes No
(Signature)

Date: February 9, 2026
From: Ryan Dickerson
To: City of El Centro
Attn: Omar Negrete
Re: RFCO - Crack Seal & Slurry Seal
Pyramid Construction and Aggregates, Inc. proposes the following on the above referenced project as follows:

Crack Seal & Slurry Seal Existing Parking Lot Approximately 32,000 SF Work to Include:

Sweep & Clean parking lot
Crack Seal
(2) Coats slurry seal
Striping back to existing lay out
Proposed Amount $38,106.00
Exclusions: AC repair, signs, car bump stops, concrete repair ______________________________ PO # ________________
Accepted by
______________________________
Date

City Council of the City of El Centro
1275 W. Main Street
El Centro, CA 92243

SUBMITTED
ACTION ITEM (ID # 2025-328)
Item: 7.

Meeting: 3/3/2026 3:30 PM
Department: Public Works
Category: Resolution
Prepared by: Catherine Gutierrez,
P.W. Analyst
Department Head: Abraham Campos
DOC ID: 2025-328
Discussion and any necessary action regarding the award of Valley Center Point Plaza Demolition Project.

CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION:

1. Adopt Resolution No. 26- , RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EL

CENTRO AWARDING THE BID AND AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A CONTRACT FOR THE VALLEY CENTER POINT PLAZA DEMOLITION PROJECT.

2. Authorize City Manager to execute the contract under similar terms and conditions as the contract template issued at bid time and as may be modified and approved by the City Attorney.

FISCAL IMPACT:

No impact on the general fund. $3,500,000 is budgeted in Fiscal Year 2026 in Measure P funds for this project.

Base Bid $1,404,849.65
Additive Bid 1 $ 775,008.00
Subtotal $2,179,857.65 - Contract Award Amount
+10% Contingency $ 217,985.77
+Additive Bid 2 (portion) $ 700,000.00
Total Budget $3,097,843.42 - Project Construction Budget STRATEGIC PLANNING PROGRAM 2022-2027 RELATION:

Environmental Sustainability & Infrastructure
DUE DILIGENCE CHECK FOR CONTRACTORS/CONSULTANTS: DID THE

DEPARTMENT VERIFY CURRENT EL CENTRO BUSINESS LICENSE,
CONTRACTOR'S LICENSE, REFERENCE CHECKS, INSURANCE, ETC.:

NA
BACKGROUND:

In October 2017, the City completed a condition assessment report for the Valley Center Point site. The report concluded that several buildings were in such poor condition that it was not economically feasible to salvage or repair them.

In December 2019, the City prepared a Master Plan for the site, which included a Market Analysis. The plan identified construction of the new library and the demolition of all Cityowned buildings at the site, with the exception of the former Sears building. The Sears building is currently occupied by Imagine School and the now vacant temporary City library.

On October 31, 2022, the City Council approved Task Order No. 3 under the Nicklaus OnCall Architectural Services Agreement for the preparation of utility relocation plans and demolition specifications for Valley Center Point Plaza (APN 064-470-109).

The Valley Center Point Plaza Demolition Project scope includes the demolition and site leveling of the former Mervyn’s, Miller’s Outpost, and mall shop buildings. The Sears building, occupied by Imagine School and the now vacant temporary City library, will remain. The project also includes utility improvements to provide the temporary City library with independent utility connections.

The City's Public Works staff took to Council on September 16, 2025 plans and specifications for approval and authorization to solicit bids.

Notice inviting bids was advertised on September 23, 2025.

Pre-Bid Meeting was held on October 7, 2025.

DISCUSSION:

Five (5) bids were received and opened on December 18, 2025 for the above referenced project.

Bid Results are as follows: Base Bid Additive Bid 1 Additive Bid 2

1. Whillock Contracting, Inc. $1,404,849.65 $775,008.00 $1,540,358.00

2. GAMA Contracting Services $1,659,981.59 $697,200.00 $1,744,527.70

3. Pyramid Construction, Inc. $2,329,961.93 $555,268.00 $1,767,243.74 Staff reviewed the bids and determined Whillock Contracting, Inc. to be the lowest responsive bidder. Base Bid was used to determine lowest bidder.

Staff recommends awarding the project to Whillock Contracting, Inc., including the Base Bid and Additive Bid 1, for a total amount of $2,179,857.65.

Staff further recommends a 10% construction contingency of $217,985.77 to address project unknowns.

The project budget does not allow for the full delivery of Additive Bid 2. Bid 2 includes work on the old City library adjacent to Imagine school, including restoring electrical power, upgrading the fire sprinkler system, upgrading the sewer and water plumbing systems, and associated finish surface repairs.

Staff requests an additional $700,000.00 budget be established to advance portions of Additive bid no. 2, related to improvements to the existing old Library site. Proposed improvements to be advanced include providing an independent power source through IID and upgrading the fire sprinkler system.

The total requested construction budget, including the above, is $3,097,843.42.

CONCLUSION:

1. Adopt Resolution No. 26- , RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EL CENTRO

AWARDING THE BID AND AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A CONTRACT FOR THE VALLEY CENTER POINT PLAZA DEMOLITION PROJECT.

2. Authorize City Manager to execute the contract under similar terms and conditions as the contract template issued at bid time and as may be modified and approved by the City Attorney.

ATTACHMENTS:

1. Resolution of Award

2. Bid Results

01/2026/cdz/A26-0019/Reso/ValleyCenterPointPlazaDemProj RESOLUTION NO. 26 -

RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EL

CENTRO AWARDING THE BID AND AUTHORIZING THE

EXECUTION OF A CONTRACT FOR THE VALLEY CENTER

POINT PLAZA DEMOLITION PROJECT
WHEREAS, the plans and specifications have been adopted by the City Council of the City of El Centro, California (the “City Council”) and the notice inviting bids has been advertised as required by section 2-185.15 of the City of El Centro (the “City”) municipal code for the Valley Center Point Plaza Demolition Project (the “Project”); and WHEREAS, bids were received and opened on December 18, 2025, in accordance with applicable law, and the Director of Public Works/City Engineer has made a report thereon; and WHEREAS, the City Council has considered the report of the Director of Public Works/City Engineer and, as a result, has determined that, of the five (5) bids received, Whillock Contracting, Inc., an California corporation, submitted the lowest responsive and responsible Base Bid in the amount of One Million, Four Hundred Four Thousand, Eight Hundred FortyNine Dollars and Sixty-Five Cents, ($1,404,849.65) as calculated based on unit prices; and WHEREAS, the City Council has considered the report of the Director of Public Works/City Engineer to accept the Base Bid together with Additive Bid 1 in the total amount of Two Million, One Hundred Seventy-Nine Thousand, Eight Hundred Fifty-Seven Dollars and Sixty-Five Cents, ($2,179,857.65) submitted by Whillock Contracting, Inc.; and WHEREAS, the City Council finds that the award and approval of a contract for the Project to Whillock Contracting, Inc., as the lowest responsive and responsible bidder, will be in the best interest of the City.

NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EL CENTRO, CALIFORNIA, DOES HEREBY RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:

1. That the foregoing recitals are true, correct and incorporated herein by reference as findings.

2. That the City Council hereby accepts the bid of Whillock Contracting, Inc. as the lowest responsive and responsible bid.

3. That the City Manager is hereby authorized to execute a contract with Whillock Contracting, Inc. for the Project in the total amount of Two Million, One Hundred Seventy-Nine Thousand, Eight Hundred Fifty-Seven Dollars and Sixty-Five Cents. ($2,179,857.65), a copy of which is on file in the Office of the City Clerk, on behalf of the City.

4. That the City Council hereby establishes a construction contingency fund of 10.00% or Two Hundred Seventeen Thousand, Nine Hundred Eighty-Five Dollars and Seventy-Seven Cents, ($217,985.77) for the Project.

01/2026/cdz/A26-0019/Reso/ValleyCenterPointPlazaDemProj

5. That the City Manager is further authorized to approve and execute any change orders for the Project up to a single change order amount of Two Hundred Seventeen Thousand, Nine Hundred Eighty-Five Dollars and Seventy-Seven Cents ($217,985.77) individually or collectively, as needed for unanticipated construction contingencies and is required to report all change orders to the City Council as soon as practical.

6. That the City Council shall approve any change order that either individually exceeds the single change order amount or in combination with other approved change orders, exceed the amount established as the construction contingency fund for the Project as set forth herein.

7. That the City Council hereby establishes an additional contract budget in the amount of Seven Hundred Thousand Dollars and Zero Cents ($700,000.00) to advance portions of Additive bid no. 2, related to Improvements to the existing old Library Site. The City Council directs the Public Works Director to return to the City Council for authorization for any expenses related to this added budget.

8. That the City Council hereby establishes a total budget for this project in the amount of Three Million, Ninety-Seven Thousand, Eight Hundred Forty-Three Dollars and Forty-Two Cents ($3,097,843.42).

PASSED AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of El Centro, California held on day of , 2026.

CITY OF EL CENTRO
By _______________________
Michael Crankshaw, Mayor
ATTEST:

By _____________________________
Norma Wyles, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:

Office of the City Attorney
By______________________________
Joanna Hoff, City Attorney

01/2026/cdz/A26-0019/Reso/ValleyCenterPointPlazaDemProj

STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF IMPERIAL ) ss

CITY OF EL CENTRO )
I, Norma Wyles, City Clerk of the City of El Centro, California do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution No. 26- was duly and regularly adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of El Centro, California, held on the day of , 2026, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAINED:

By__________________________
Norma Wyles, City Clerk

BID SHEET
PROJECT: Valley Center Point Plaza
Demolition Project
BID OPENING DATE: December 18, 2025
BID OPENING TIME: 2:00 p.m.

BIDDER NAME TOTAL BASE BID
RJ Nichols Construction Inc.
$2,795,450.64
GAMA Construction Services
Inc. $1,659,981.59
Pyramid Construction Inc.
$2,329,961.96
D.J Miller, Inc $3,177,167.20
Whillock Contracting $1,404,849.65

City Council of the City of El Centro
1275 W. Main Street
El Centro, CA 92243

SUBMITTED
ACTION ITEM (ID # 2026-48)
Item: 8.

Meeting: 3/3/2026 3:30 PM
Department: Public Works
Category: Informational Items
Prepared by: Elizabeth Zarate, Analyst
Department Head: Abraham Campos
DOC ID: 2026-48
Presentation regarding City of El Centro Rate Study
CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION:

Receive the presentation and provide direction to staff regarding the proposed water and sewer rate structure.

FISCAL IMPACT:

There is no fiscal impact associated with receiving this presentation. Fiscal impacts will be determined based on Council direction regarding rate adjustments and financing strategies.

STRATEGIC PLANNING PROGRAM 2022-2027 RELATION:

Financial & Governance Stability & Sustainability
Environmental Sustainability & Infrastructure
DUE DILIGENCE CHECK FOR CONTRACTORS/CONSULTANTS: DID THE

DEPARTMENT VERIFY CURRENT EL CENTRO BUSINESS LICENSE,
CONTRACTOR'S LICENSE, REFERENCE CHECKS, INSURANCE, ETC.:

NA
BACKGROUND:

On December 16, 2025, the City Council approved the Water and Sewer Master Plans.

The plans identified key infrastructure, operational, and financial needs necessary to maintain reliable service and regulatory compliance.

Key Findings – Water System
The Water Master Plan identified several key issues affecting system reliability and service levels, including:
• Aging pump station infrastructure, particularly at the former Water Treatment Plant site, where mechanical, electrical, and structural components have exceeded their useful life
• Reservoirs and pump stations generally in fair condition, requiring planned rehabilitation or replacement within the next 10 years
• Portions of the water distribution system with pipelines that have exceeded or are nearing the end of their useful life
• Limited redundancy in some newer development areas served by single supply lines
• Inability to meet current fire flow requirements in certain locations without system improvements
Key Findings – Sewer System
The Sewer Master Plan found that while most sewer pipelines meet hydraulic capacity

criteria, significant condition-related deficiencies exist throughout the system, including:
• Lift stations with structural, electrical, and safety deficiencies that affect reliability and compliance with modern standards
• Aging sewer pipelines and manholes experiencing deterioration from hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) exposure, requiring lining and rehabilitation • Wastewater Treatment Plant components with failing concrete, corroded equipment, and outdated processes
• Primary clarifiers operating over capacity during wet weather conditions • Digesters dating back to the 1950s that require major maintenance and rehabilitation
The largest overall need identified in the sewer system is investment in Wastewater Treatment Plant rehabilitation and lift station improvements to ensure long-term operational reliability.

Capital Improvement Program (CIP) and Financial Coordination Based on the findings, the master plans recommend a 20-year Capital Improvement Program totaling approximately $169.6 million, consisting of:
• Approximately $76.9 million for water system improvements • Approximately $92.7 million for sewer system improvements Projects are prioritized and phased, with the highest-risk and highest-need improvements targeted within the first five years. The master plans are intended to directly inform the City’s capital budgeting and are being coordinated with the City’s water and sewer rate study to align infrastructure needs with long-term financial planning.

DISCUSSION:

With the Master Plans now approved, the City’s consultant, Dudek, along with its subconsultant Raftelis, is prepared to present proposed rate structures to fund both the Capital Improvement Program and ongoing Operations and Maintenance costs.

The presentation will include:
• Proposed water and sewer rates for the next five years • Options for bond financing to help moderate near-term rate impacts to customers • Comparative scenarios for Council consideration
Based on Council direction, staff intends to return to the City Council on March 17, 2026, to initiate the Proposition 218 process, which will begin the required public notice, outreach, and hearing procedures.

CONCLUSION:

Receive the presentation and provide direction to staff regarding the proposed water and sewer rate structure and financing strategy.

ATTACHMENTS:

None

City Council of the City of El Centro
1275 W. Main Street
El Centro, CA 92243

SUBMITTED
ACTION ITEM (ID # 2026-60)
Item: 9.

Meeting: 3/3/2026 3:30 PM
Department: Public Works
Category: Action Item
Prepared by: Abraham Campos, Public
Works Director/City Engineer
Department Head: Abraham Campos
DOC ID: 2026-60
Funding request for bus shelters.

CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION:

Designate a funding amount and funding source to advance the purchase and installation of new bus shelters.

FISCAL IMPACT:

Funding is required to proceed with the purchase and installation of bus shelters. The net fiscal impact will depend on the number of shelters approved, as outlined in the Discussion section below.

STRATEGIC PLANNING PROGRAM 2022-2027 RELATION:

City Beautification, Engagement & Civic Pride
DUE DILIGENCE CHECK FOR CONTRACTORS/CONSULTANTS: DID THE

DEPARTMENT VERIFY CURRENT EL CENTRO BUSINESS LICENSE,
CONTRACTOR'S LICENSE, REFERENCE CHECKS, INSURANCE, ETC.:

NA
BACKGROUND:

On November 18, 2025, the City Council directed staff to develop bus shelter design options reflecting a new minimalist-modern aesthetic.

On December 16, 2025, the City Council approved a final bus shelter design in order to provide the updated design to ICTC in advance of its bus shelter project. At that meeting, estimated purchase costs were discussed; however, funding was not formally allocated.

DISCUSSION:

Staff has obtained vendor quotes and is prepared to proceed with the replacement of select bus shelters in advance of ICTC’s project.

The proposed locations under consideration are:
• Imperial Avenue near the hospital (Pepper area) – Replacement of four (4) shelters • Imperial Avenue at Barbara Worth Drive – Replacement of two (2) shelters Total estimated costs
• Two (2) shelters (Barbara Worth Drive & Imperial Avenue): $53,500 • Four (4) shelters (Pepper & Imperial Avenue area): $105,000 • Six (6) shelters (all locations listed above): $150,000

The City currently has approximately $41,000 available in the budget from prior-year Article 8E and Regional Bus Shelter funds received from ICTC. This amount would offset the total project cost.

Net budget impact (after applying available funds)
• Two (2) shelters: $12,500
• Four (4) shelters: $64,000
• Six (6) shelters: $109,000
Potential funding sources include:
• Measure D / LTA funds
• Measure P
• General Fund
Staff requests Council direction regarding the approved number of shelters, funding amount, and funding source in order to proceed with procurement.

CONCLUSION:

Designate a funding amount and funding source to advance the purchase and installation of new bus shelters.

ATTACHMENTS:

None

City Council of the City of El Centro
1275 W. Main Street
El Centro, CA 92243

SUBMITTED
ACTION ITEM (ID # 2026-49)
Item: 10.

Meeting: 3/3/2026 3:30 PM
Department: Public Works
Category: Resolution
Prepared by: Elizabeth Zarate, Analyst
Department Head: Abraham Campos
DOC ID: 2026-49
Establishing Water Rate Setting Procedures Under Proposition 218.

CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION:

Adopt Resolution 26- , ESTABLISHING WATER RATE SETTING PROCEDURES UNDER PROPOSITION 218, AND GOVERNMENT CODE SECTIONS 53750 THROUGH 53759.2 AND 54354.5.

FISCAL IMPACT:

There is no fiscal impact directly associated with the proposed procedures. The fiscal impact of proposed water rates will be presented when a rate study is completed.

STRATEGIC PLANNING PROGRAM 2022-2027 RELATION:

Financial & Governance Stability & Sustainability
DUE DILIGENCE CHECK FOR CONTRACTORS/CONSULTANTS: DID THE

DEPARTMENT VERIFY CURRENT EL CENTRO BUSINESS LICENSE,
CONTRACTOR'S LICENSE, REFERENCE CHECKS, INSURANCE, ETC.:

N/A
BACKGROUND:

California law authorizes the City to charge a water rate to customers for the proportionate cost of providing water services to each customer in accordance with the procedural and substantive requirements of the voter-approved ballot measure commonly referred to as “Proposition 218” or “Prop 218” (California Constitution Article XIII D; as it is implemented by the Legislature at Government Code Sections 53750 – 53759.2; and as it has been interpreted by judicial decisions).

DISCUSSION:

The City may only establish new or increase its existing water rates if the City (1) calculates the water rates in accordance with Prop 218, (2) conducts a noticed public hearing before the City Council, and (3) a “timely written protest” is not submitted by customers representing a majority of the parcels served by the City. Under Government Code Sections 53759.1 and 53759.2, the City may establish a process for objecting customers to exhaust administrative remedies and only a customer who submits a timely written objection will have a right to challenge a proposed new or increased water rate through a legal proceeding.

The attached proposed resolution documents the procedures the City will follow in considering proposed new or increased water rates, including compliance with Prop 218 and the exhaustion of administrative remedies. The included procedures provide a meaningful opportunity for a customer to submit a written objection to a proposed new or increased water rate early in the process, and to provide an opportunity for the City to address or resolve any objections before the City Council makes a final decision whether to adopt a proposed new or increased water rate pursuant to Prop 218.

CONCLUSION:

Adopt Resolution 26- , ESTABLISHING WATER RATE SETTING PROCEDURES UNDER PROPOSITION 218, AND GOVERNMENT CODE SECTIONS 53750 THROUGH 53759.2 AND 54354.5.

ATTACHMENTS:

1. Resolution Final

02/2026/cdz/A26-0038/Reso/Prop218PolicyStatement 1
RESOLUTION NO. 26-

RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EL

CENTRO ESTABLISHING WATER RATE SETTING
PROCEDURES UNDER PROPOSITION 218, AND
GOVERNMENT CODE SECTIONS 53750 THROUGH 53759.2
AND 54354.5
WHEREAS, The City of El Centro (“City”) provides water service to certain parcels and establishes the amount of water rates to be paid by customers for such services in accordance with applicable laws; and
WHEREAS, California law authorizes the City to charge a rate to the property owners or property owners’ “tenants” who are directly liable to pay the water rates (property owners and tenants may be collectively referred to as “customers”) for the proportionate cost of providing water services to each parcel in accordance with the procedural and substantive requirements of the voter-approved ballot measure commonly referred to as “Proposition 218” or “Prop 218” (California Constitution Article XIII D; as it is implemented by the Legislature at Government Code Sections 53750 – 53759.2; and as it has been interpreted by judicial decisions); and WHEREAS, under Prop 218, the City’s water rates are considered to be a “fee” for “property-related services” subject to the particular requirements of Article XIII D, Section 6 of the California Constitution; and
WHEREAS, the City may only establish new or increase its existing water rates if the City (1) calculates the water rates in accordance with Prop 218, (2) conducts a noticed public hearing before the City Council, and (3) a “timely written protest” is not submitted by customers representing a majority of the parcels served by the City; and WHEREAS, under Government Code Sections 53759.1 and 53759.2, the City may establish a process for objecting customers to exhaust administrative remedies and only a customer who submits a “timely written objection” will have a right to challenge a proposed new or increased water rate through a legal proceeding; and WHEREAS, the purpose of this Resolution is to document the procedures the City will follow in considering proposed new or increased water rates, including compliance with Prop 218 and the exhaustion of administrative remedies; and
WHEREAS, the procedures established by this Resolution provide a meaningful opportunity for a customer to submit a written objection to a proposed new or increased water rate early in the process, and to provide an opportunity for the City to address or resolve any objections before the City Council makes a final decision whether to adopt proposed new or increased water rates pursuant to Prop 218; and
WHEREAS, the procedures established by this Resolution will identify the process the City will follow in order to implement the administrative remedies to be exhausted by customers under Government Code Sections 53759.1 and 53759.2 prior to initiating litigation to challenge the water rates; and

02/2026/cdz/A26-0038/Reso/Prop218PolicyStatement 2
WHEREAS, such procedures generally require the City to make available the proposed water rates, post the written basis for the proposed water rates on its internet website, provide 45 days for customers to review the proposed water rates and timely submit to the City a written objection to the water rates that specifies the grounds for alleging noncompliance with Prop 218, and require the City to consider and respond in writing to timely submitted objections prior to the close of the required protest hearing; and
WHEREAS, for purposes of the proposed water rates adopted by the City pursuant to Prop 218, a person or entity shall be prohibited from bringing a judicial action or proceeding alleging noncompliance with Prop 218 for any new or increased water rates, unless that person or entity has timely submitted to the City a written objection to those water rates that specifies the grounds for alleging noncompliance with Prop 218; and
WHEREAS, the City Council hereby intends to adopt the exhaustion of administrative remedies procedures as outlined in Government Code Section 53759.1, and the administrative record principles contained in Government Code Section 53759.2.

NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EL CENTRO, CALIFORNIA, DOES HEREBY RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:

1. The foregoing recitals are true, correct, and incorporated fully herein as findings.

2. The City Council hereby adopts the procedures set forth in Exhibit A attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference (“Water Rates Procedures”). The Water Rates Procedures explicitly incorporate and implement the requirements contained in Proposition 218 and the procedures by which customers are required to exhaust administrative remedies as set forth in Government Code Section 53759.1, subdivision (c).

3. For any water rates adopted or approved by the City implementing the Water Rates Procedures, a person or entity shall be prohibited from bringing a judicial action or proceeding alleging noncompliance with Proposition 218 for those water rates, unless that person or entity has timely submitted to the City a written objection to those water rates in accordance with the Water Rates Procedures that specifies the grounds for alleging such noncompliance.

4. The City Council hereby adopts the administrative record principles contained in Government Code Section 53759.2.

5. Upon adoption of this Resolution by the City Council, the Water Rates Procedures shall become effective immediately.

6. The City Council authorizes the City Manager to take such other and additional actions as may be reasonably necessary to implement the purpose of this Resolution and the Water Rates Procedures adopted herein.

02/2026/cdz/A26-0038/Reso/Prop218PolicyStatement 3
PASSED AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of El Centro, California, held on the day of 2026.

CITY OF EL CENTRO

By ___________________________
Michael Crankshaw, Mayor
ATTEST:

By_____________________________
Norma Wyles, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:

Office of the City Attorney
By_______________________________
Joanna Hoff, City Attorney

STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF IMPERIAL ) ss

CITY OF EL CENTRO )
I, Norma Wyles, City Clerk of the City of El Centro, California, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution No. 26- was duly and regularly adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of El Centro, California held on the day of 2026, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAINED:

By ___________________________
Norma Wyles, City Clerk

02/2026/cdz/A26-0038/Reso/Prop218PolicyStatement 4

EXHIBIT A
Water Rates Procedures
These “Water Rates Procedures” or “Procedures” describe the processes that will be followed by the City of El Centro (“City”) in establishing any new or increased water rates. These Procedures include compliance with “Proposition 218” (California Constitution Article XIII D; as it is implemented by the Legislature at Government Code Sections 53750 – 53759.2; and as it has been interpreted by judicial decisions).

A. Scope. These Procedures shall apply to any new or increased water rates proposed by the City in accordance with Proposition 218.

B. Definitions.

1. The following definitions shall apply:
a. “City Clerk” means the City Clerk for the City of El Centro or their designee. b. “Record Owner” means any property owner or tenant who is directly liable to pay the water rates for a parcel receiving water services from the City (consistent with Proposition 218; California Constitution Article XIII D, Section 2(g)).

C. Overview of Exhaustion Procedure.

1. If the City publishes a notice of public hearing identifying procedures for Record Owners to submit written objections (described in Section G, below),1 the City will
follow the “exhaustion procedure” set forth herein, to be conducted concurrently with the Proposition 218 process, for the City Council’s consideration of any proposed new or increased water rates. This exhaustion procedure shall be conducted in accordance with Proposition 218. The exhaustion procedure provides an opportunity for Record Owners to submit a “timely written objection” to identify substantive bases for asserting proposed water rates do not comply with Proposition 218.

2. General requirements include the following:
a. City staff will post on its internet website a notice of the exhaustion procedure, and this notice will be prominently incorporated in the Proposition 218 public hearing notice mailed to each Record Owner.
b. The notice will identify the date and time by which timely written objections must be submitted to the City, and the date will be no less than 45 calendar days after the notice is mailed to Record Owners.
c. City staff will review timely written objections and draft written responses providing the substantive basis for retaining or altering the proposed water rates in 1 If the City publishes a notice of public hearing that does not identify procedures for Record Owners to submit written objections, the City will conduct the public hearing in compliance with Proposition 218, and consider any written protests in accordance with these Procedures.

02/2026/cdz/A26-0038/Reso/Prop218PolicyStatement 5
response to the written objections. City staff will present its written responses to the City Council prior to the close of the public hearing for the Proposition 218 protest hearing, and the City Council will review to determine whether action is needed in response to the written objections or written responses. d. Following the City Council’s review and response to timely written objections and written responses, it is within the discretion of the City Council to proceed with the Proposition 218 protest hearing process, as described herein, to consider approval of the proposed water rates.

3. Must Exhaust Administrative Remedies Before Challenging Rates. No claim, suit for damages, suit for injunctive relief, petition for writ of mandamus, or administrative or judicial proceeding shall be brought against the City (including the City Council, or its employees, officers, or designees) regarding a challenge to a proposed water rate unless the challenging party first exhausts its administrative remedies by complying with these Procedures and submitting to the City a timely written objection in accordance with Section G, below.

D. Notice of Proposition 218 Public Hearing.

1. Prior to approving or imposing any new or increased water rates, the City will conduct a public hearing and provide prior written notice to each Record Owner of the hearing and the exhaustion procedure as described in these Procedures. To the extent the City sends a regular billing statement for water service provided to a “customer” or other “ratepayer” who is not the Record Owner, the City will also mail the written notice to the customer/ratepayer at the same address used for the billing statement. The City will mail the public hearing notice to each Record Owner no later than 45 days prior to the public hearing.

2. The contents of the hearing notice will include the following in compliance with Proposition 218:
a. The date, time, and location of the public hearing.
b. The amount of the water rates imposed on each parcel. This may be satisfied by identifying the rate amounts for each customer type subject to the rates. c. The basis upon which the amount of the proposed water rates were calculated. d. The reason for the water rates.
e. The location to which Record Owners must submit written protests via mail, email, fax, or personal delivery.

3. The contents of the hearing notice will include the following in compliance with the Revenue Bond Law of 1941:
a. The opportunity for Record Owners to be heard as to whether the proposed water rates are not in compliance with any requirements of the Revenue Bond Law of

02/2026/cdz/A26-0038/Reso/Prop218PolicyStatement 6
1941 (Government Code Sections 54300 – 54700), including: (a) the rates are discriminatory or excessive, or (b) the rates will not be sufficient under the provisions of any outstanding revenue bonds (including Government Code Section 54515).
b. How members of the public may obtain additional information regarding the proposed new or increased water rates, including a link to information that is available on the City’s website or by requesting a mailed copy. This will include a copy of the resolution or ordinance by which the proposed new or increased water rates are proposed to be adopted.

E. Compliance with the Exhaustion Procedure for Written Objections.

1. If the City chooses to follow the exhaustion procedure for written objections, concurrently with mailing the public hearing notice, the City will post on its internet website the written basis for the proposed water rates and a link to the Proposition 218 public hearing notice which will be supplemented with the following prominently displayed information:
a. The “deadline” (date and time) by which a “timely written objection” must be submitted to the City. The deadline will be no earlier than 45 days after the City mails to Record Owners the notice of the public hearing. b. The location to which written objections must be submitted to the City via mail, email, fax, or personal delivery.
c. All substantive requirements for submitting a written objection. The Record Owner must comply with the requirements set forth in Section G, below, including specifying the grounds on which the Record Owner alleges the proposed new or increased water rates do not comply with Proposition 218. d. Notice that: (a) any person’s failure to submit a timely written objection bars any right of that person to challenge the proposed new or increased water rates through a legal proceeding; and (b) there is a 120-day statute of limitations for challenging the proposed new or increased water rates (in accordance with Government Code Section 53759).

F. Mailing and Publishing the Public Hearing Notice.

1. The City will mail the public hearing notice to each Record Owner of a parcel that is subject to payment of the new or increased fee. The notice shall be mailed to the Record Owner’s address shown on the last equalized property tax assessment roll.

2. There is a rebuttable presumption that the most recent equalized property tax assessment roll of the Imperial County Recorder is sufficient evidence of the Record Owner of each parcel. A person may rebut the presumption by providing to the City written proof of ownership.

02/2026/cdz/A26-0038/Reso/Prop218PolicyStatement 7

3. The City Clerk, or designee, may certify by affidavit the proper mailing of notices described in these Procedures, and any such affidavit shall constitute conclusive proof of mailing in the absence of fraud.

4. Failure of any person to receive notice shall not invalidate the hearing or its results.

5. The City will also provide supplemental notices to the address where the City customarily mails the billing statement for water rates.

6. Concurrently with publishing and mailing the public hearing notice, the City will post on its website relevant information regarding the proposed new or increased water rates including a copy of the cost of service analysis (which may be referred to as a water “rate study”) which provides documentation of compliance with all substantive requirements of Proposition 218 regarding the calculation of the amount of the proposed new or increased water rates.

G. Requirements for Submitting Timely Written Objections.

1. In order for a Record Owner to submit a timely written objection, it must:
a. Be received by the City at the location identified on the public hearing notice, no later than the deadline identified on the public hearing notice. The deadline may be no earlier than 45 days after the City mails to Record Owners the notice of public hearing.
b. Be in writing (1) identifying the name of the Record Owner, and the street address or assessor’s parcel number (or other clear identification) of the parcel subject to the water rates; and (2) signed by the Record Owner, or otherwise identifying that the Record Owner submitted the written objection, subject to verification by the City.
c. Specify the grounds for alleging the proposed water rates do not comply with Proposition 218. The grounds must identify (1) the substantive requirement of Proposition 218, and (2) the reason the proposed water rates do not comply with that requirement. For any proposed new or increased “fee” for a property-related service (such as water rates), relevant substantive requirements of Proposition 218 include:
i. Revenues derived from the water rates shall not exceed the funds required to provide the property-related water service.
ii. Revenues derived from the water rates shall not be used for any purpose other than that for which the water rates was imposed.
iii. The amount of the water rates shall not exceed the proportional cost of the service attributable to the parcel.

02/2026/cdz/A26-0038/Reso/Prop218PolicyStatement 8
iv. No water rates may be imposed for a service unless that service is actually used by, or immediately available to, the owner of the parcel in question.

Water rates based on potential or future use of a service are not permitted. v. No water rates may be imposed for general governmental services including, but not limited to, police, fire, ambulance or library services, where the service is available to the public at large in substantially the same manner as it is to property owners.

H. Requirements for Submitting Timely Written Protests.

1. The City will consider each timely written objection to also serve as a timely written protest from a Record Owner.

2. In order for a Record Owner to submit a timely written protest, to be considered as a part of the Proposition 218 protest hearing described in Section K, below, it must:
a. Be received by the City at the location identified on the public hearing notice, no later than the close of the public testimony portion of the public hearing. b. Be in writing (1) identifying the name of the Record Owner, and the street address or assessor’s parcel number (or other clear identification) of the parcel subject to the water rates; and (2) signed by the Record Owner, or otherwise identifying that the Record Owner submitted the written objection, subject to verification by the City.
c. Clearly identify that the Record Owner opposes the proposed new or increased water rates that are the subject of the hearing.

3. Multiple written protests for the same parcel will only be counted as one protest per parcel. If any one or more Record Owners of a parcel submits a timely written protest (or timely written objection) for the same parcel, it will be counted as one timely written protest.

4. Record Owners of multiple parcels receiving water services from the City may file one protest for each parcel owned.

5. A Record Owner may withdraw a written protest only if the withdrawal is submitted in writing by the Record Owner clearly indicating an intent to withdraw a written protest for an identified parcel, and it is received by the City at the location (and no later than the time) for submitting written protests. After a written protest is withdrawn, a Record Owner may submit a new or replacement written protest in accordance with the requirements of these Procedures. No other modification to a timely written protest may be made.

I. Disclosure of Written Objections and Written Protests.

1. The City Clerk shall take custody of all submitted written objections and written protests.

02/2026/cdz/A26-0038/Reso/Prop218PolicyStatement 9

2. In order to protect the integrity of the procedures for considering written objections and written protests as described in these Procedures, all written objections and written protests shall remain confidential until the City Manager (or designee) has determined they may be disclosed in accordance with Section I(3), below.

3. Any submitted written objection and written protest shall be a public record, subject to the City’s determination that the public interest served by not disclosing clearly outweighs the public interest served by disclosure under Government Code Section 7922.000. As a general rule, the City finds there is a substantial public interest in not disclosing written objections and written protests to protect the integrity of the process described herein during the time that: (A) written objections are still being submitted and (B) prior to the time that the Brown Act meeting agenda is posted (e.g., at least 72 hours before a regular meeting under Government Code Section 54954.2).

J. City’s Response to Timely Written Objections.

1. At the close of the written objection period, City staff shall review timely written objections and shall draft written responses to the written objections. The City’s written responses will include:
a. The grounds on which the objection is (or is not) resulting in amendments to the proposed new or increased water rates; and
b. An explanation of the substantive basis for retaining or altering the proposed new or increased water rates.

2. City staff shall present the written responses to the City Council at the public meeting that was specified in the public hearing notice described in Section D, above.

3. In accordance with the Ralph M. Brown Act (Government Code Sections 54950 – 54963), the public will be provided an opportunity to address the City Council prior to the Council’s action related to the timely written objections and written responses. (See Government Code Section 54954.3(a).)

4. In accordance with Government Code Section 53759.1(d), the City Council, in exercising its legislative discretion in considering timely written objections and written responses, shall determine for the proposed new or increased water rates whether further review, clarification, or reduction is needed, and whether to proceed to the Proposition 218 protest hearing.

K. Conducting the Proposition 218 Protest Public Hearing.

1. If the City Council determines to proceed to the Proposition 218 protest public hearing for proposed new or increased water rates (as previously noticed in accordance with Section D, above), the public hearing shall be conducted consistent with the following:
a. The City Council will open the public hearing and consider all evidence presented during the hearing including the public hearing notice and all documents referenced

02/2026/cdz/A26-0038/Reso/Prop218PolicyStatement 10
therein (particularly including the water rate study), all written objections, written responses, written protests, and any testimony, documents, or information presented during the public hearing.
b. Prior to closing the public hearing, the City Council will request if there are any additional written protests to be submitted to (or withdrawn from) the City. c. The City Council will then close the public hearing and request a report from the City Clerk to identify the number of timely written protests compared to the total number of parcels subject to the new or increased fees.

i. A majority protest exists only if the number of timely written protests exceeds one-half of the parcels served by the City.
ii. If the City Clerk determines that additional time is needed to tabulate timely written protests, the City Council shall recess or continue the public meeting to provide sufficient time for the City Clerk to complete the tabulation. iii. If the City Clerk determines that there is a majority protest, the City shall not impose the new or increased water rates.
iv. If the City Clerk determines that there is not a majority protest, the City Council shall continue its deliberations and take action on the proposed new or increased water rates.

2. The City Clerk’s determinations under these Procedures shall be the final determination of the City subject to appropriate judicial review. This shall include the City Clerk’s determinations that: (a) a written protest meets the requirements for a timely written protest in accordance with these Procedures; or (b) a majority protest has (or has not) been submitted for the proposed water rates.

City Council of the City of El Centro
1275 W. Main Street
El Centro, CA 92243

SUBMITTED
ACTION ITEM (ID # 2026-19)
Item: 11.

Meeting: 3/3/2026 3:30 PM
Department: Public Works
Category: Informational Items
Prepared by: Elizabeth Zarate, Analyst
Department Head: Abraham Campos
DOC ID: 2026-19
Update Emergency Declaration - WWTP Bar Screen Failure
CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION:

FISCAL IMPACT:

No impact to the General Fund. Project to be funded by the wastewater enterprise working capital. The estimated cost is about $800,000.00
STRATEGIC PLANNING PROGRAM 2022-2027 RELATION:

Environmental Sustainability & Infrastructure
DUE DILIGENCE CHECK FOR CONTRACTORS/CONSULTANTS: DID THE

DEPARTMENT VERIFY CURRENT EL CENTRO BUSINESS LICENSE,
CONTRACTOR'S LICENSE, REFERENCE CHECKS, INSURANCE, ETC.:

NA
BACKGROUND:

The first piece of equipment that receives incoming sewer flow at the WWTP is a mechanical trash bar screen. The purpose of the screen is to remove inorganic materials (plastics, debris, etc.) from the wastewater stream before it enters the treatment process and to divert these materials for disposal at a landfill. The trash bar failed and on January 20, 2026, Council approved a local emergency resolution to allow the repairs to proceed quickly.

DISCUSSION:

Staff has obtained quotes from the equipment supplier and is working to place the order.

Staff has also obtained a quote from a contractor and is working with our legal department to set up the agreement to be in place once the equipment is delivered. Public works will be returning to Council to provide updates as work and contracts are established.

CONCLUSION:

Information item only.

ATTACHMENTS:

None

City Council of the City of El Centro
1275 W. Main Street
El Centro, CA 92243

SUBMITTED
ACTION ITEM (ID # 2026-52)
Item: 12.

Meeting: 3/3/2026 3:30 PM
Department: City Clerk
Category: Informational Items
Prepared by: Norma Valenzuela,
Secretarial Assistant
Department Head: Norma Wyles
DOC ID: 2026-52
Received and referred to Community Development Department, Application for Alcoholic Beverage License- Arrellanos Five, LLC La Birrieria Red Tacos #2 710 S. 4TH St El Centro, CA 92243
CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION:

FISCAL IMPACT:

STRATEGIC PLANNING PROGRAM 2022-2027 RELATION:

DUE DILIGENCE CHECK FOR CONTRACTORS/CONSULTANTS: DID THE

DEPARTMENT VERIFY CURRENT EL CENTRO BUSINESS LICENSE,
CONTRACTOR'S LICENSE, REFERENCE CHECKS, INSURANCE, ETC.:

BACKGROUND:

DISCUSSION:

CONCLUSION:

ATTACHMENTS:

1. Application for Alcoholic Beverage La Birrieria Red Tacos