Maricopa City Council Agenda
Tuesday, February 10, 2026
6:00 PM
Location: Gusher Hall, 271 California Street, Maricopa, CA 93252 Also available through Zoom Video Conferencing:
https://zoom/us.join Meeting ID: 814 0988 7597 Passcode: 358821 Call to Order and Pledge of Allegiance
II.
Mayor Cory Morse City Administrator Eric Ziegler
Mayor Pro Tem Virgil Bell City Attorney Alan Peake
Council Member Crystal Harris City Treasurer Dorine Horn Council Member John Horn City Clerk Meghan Wilson
Council Member James Owens
I1I. Community Recognition
IV. Reorder of Agenda
V. Council Reports/Statements
a. Report by Public Safety/Sheriff Department/Fire Department b. City Clerk Meghan Wilson
City Treasurer Dorine Horn
d. • City Administrator Eric Ziegler
e. City Attorney Alan Peake
City Council Members
g. Mayor Cory Morse
VI. Public Hearings
VII. Public Commentary
Persons wishing to address the council on items within its jurisdiction, but not on this agenda, may do so now. Any items presented to the council at this time will not be acted upon.
Please note: State law allows the City Council to briefly respond to questions on items raised by the public which are not on the agenda Govt. Code Section 549.54.2(a) Alternatively, the Council may choose to direct staff to provide information at the following meeting. Any member of the public may comment on any matter within the jurisdiction of the city that is not on this agenda. Those wishing to comment should be recognized by the mayor and approach the podium.
Please complete a Speaker's Form and submit it to the City Clerk prior to the start of the meeting to be acknowledged as a speaker.
VIII. Approval of Minutes
a. Approve Special Meeting Minutes January 8, 2026
b. Approve Maricopa City Council Regular Agenda Minutes for January 13, 2026 c. Approve Maricopa City Council Regular Agenda Minutes for January 27, 2026 IX. Consent Calendar - None
X. Agendized Items
a. Adopt Resolution Entitled Resolution of The City Council of the City of Maricopa Amending Certain Personnel Policies and Procedures Governing Employees of the City of Maricopa by Adding a Policy on Bereavement Leave
Recommendation:
Motion to Adopt a Resolution of The City Council of the City of Maricopa Amending Certain Personnel Policies and Procedures Governing Employees of the City of Maricopa by Adding a Policy on Bereavement Leave b. A Proclamation of the City of Maricopa Proclaiming February 2026 as Safely Surrendered Baby Awareness Month in the City of Maricopa
Recommendation:
Motion to Proclaim February 2026, as Safely Surrendered Baby Awareness Month in the City gf Maricopa.
Discussion/Direction/Action re Elected Official Absences and Related Matters Recommendation:
None
d. Adopt Ordinance Entitled an Ordinance of the City Council, Of the City of Maricopa Amending 17.10.90 of the City of Maricopa Municipal Code (Zoning Code) Related to Fences and Walls.
Recommendation:
Motion To Adopt an Ordinance of The City Council of The City of MMaricopa Amending Chapter 17.10.90 Ofthe City of Maricopa Municipal Code (Zoning Ordinance) Related To Fences and Walls
XI. New Business
XII. Closed Session
XIII. Come into Open Session
XIV: Council/Staff Items
XV: Adjourn
I certify that a copy of this agenda was posted at Maricopa City Hall, Gusher Hall, and Maricopa Post Office on February 5, 2026.
Meghan Wilson, City Clerk
Maricopa City Council Minutes
SPECIAL MEETING
Thursday, January 8, 2026
6:00 p.m.
Location: Gusher Hall, 271 California Street, Maricopa, CA 93252 I. Pledge of Allegiance, Moment of Silent Meditation, Call to Order Mayor Pro Tem Bell called the meeting to order followed by the flag salute.
II. Roll Call:
Mayor Morse - Absent
Mayor Pro Tem Bell City Administrator Eric Ziegler
Council Member Harris City Attorney Alan Peake
Council Member Horn City Treasurer Dorine Horn
Council Member Owens - Absent City Clerk Meghan Anderson/Wilson - Absent Ill. Agendized Items
a. Approve Agreement Between City of Maricopa and Upland Construction for Construction Management Services Re Maricopa City Park Improvement Program Department of Parks and Recreation, Grant Contract C9801018, Project No. SW-15-004; Cal Trans Clean California Local Grant Program Agreement CCL-5201-001; Authorize Mayor and City Clerk to Execute Agreement on Behalf of the City
Administrator Ziegler explained the reason for contracting with Upland Construction.
Recommendation:
Motion to Approve Agreement Between City of Maricopa and Upland Construction for Construction Management Services Re Maricopa City Park Improvement Program Department of Parks and Recreation, Grant Contract C9801018, Project No. SW-15-004; CalTrans Clean California Local Grant Program Agreement CCL-5201-001; Authorize Mayor and City Clerk to Execute Agreement on Behalf of the City Public Question from Richard Albright; Shouldn't the people be here that are on the contract? Council Member Horn motioned to approve Agreement Between City of Maricopa and Upland Construction for Construction Management Services Re Maricopa City Park Improvement Program Department of Parks and Recreation, Grant Contract and Cal Trans Clean California Local Grant Program, and Authorize Mayor Pro Tem Bell and City Clerk to Execute Agreement on Behalf of the City, and Council Member Harris second.
Ayes.. ....Bell, Harris, Horn,
Noes. ...0
Abstain.. ....0
Absent. ...Morse, Owens
IV. Adjourn Council Member Harris motioned to adjourn meeting, Council Member Horn second. at 6:14 pm Ayes.. .Bell, Harris, Horn,
Noes.........0
Abstain. ...o
Absent..... ..Morse, Owens
Maricopa City Council Minutes
Tuesday, January 13th, 2026
Location: Gusher Hall
271 California Street, Maricopa, CA 93252
Call to Order and Pledge of Allegiance
Mayor Pro Tem Bell called the meeting to order at 6:00 P.M., followed by the flag salute.
Il. Roll Call
Mayor Cory Morse - Absent
Mayor Pro Tem Virgil Bell - Present
Council Member John Horn - Present
Council Member Crystal Harris - Present
Council Member James Owens - Absent
City Administrator Eric Ziegler- Present
City Attorney Alan Peake - Present
City Treasurer Dorine Horn - Present
City Clerk Meghan Wilson - Present
III. Community Recognition
None.
IV. Reorder of Agenda
None.
V. Council Reports/Statements
a. Report by Public Safety/Sheriff Department/Fire Department - Sheriff Department is present, and stats for the last two weeks are reviewed. Concerns about the city not having reflective street signs were raised and discussed. Cameras that have been ordered were also discussed. b. City Clerk Meghan Wilson - None.
c. City Treasurer Dorine Horn - Dorine reminded the council and staff to file their 700 forms, which are due by April 1s!
d. City Administrator Eric Ziegler - None.
e. City Attorney Alan Peake - None.
f. City Council Members - Mayor Pro Tem requested that the Fire Department be contacted regarding attending future meetings.
g. Mayor Cory Morse - None.
VI. Public Hearings
None.
VII. Public Commentary
None.
VIII. Approval of Minutes
a. Approve Maricopa City Council Regular Agenda Minutes for November 18th, 2025 b. Approve Maricopa City Council Regular Agenda Minutes for December 9l, 2025 Motion by Horn, 2n° by Harris.
Ayes: Harris, Horn, Bell
Noes: 0
Absent: Owens, Morse
Abstain: 0
Item a. and b. approved.
IX. Consent Calendar
a. Approve payment of payroll for November 2025
b. Approve payment of warrants for November 2025
Motion by Horn, 2nd by Harris.
Ayes: Harris, Owens, Bell
Noes: 0
Absent: Owens, Morse
Abstain: 0
Item a. and b. approved.
X. Agendized Items
a. Adopt Resolution Entitled Resolution of the City Council of the City of Maricopa Amending Certain Personnel Policies and Procedures Governing Employees of the City of Maricopa by Adding a Policy on Bereavement Leave
Tabled due to Horn having to abstain from the vote, whereas there will not be enough votes to move forward.
b. Request by Maricopa VFW Post 11012 to Extend Current Use of the Gusher Hall (271 California St, Maricopa, CA) for VFW Meetings and Food Distribution and Waive All Associated Fees for Approximately 6 Months Beginning January 1, 2026 Richard (Dick) Albright expressed that he would like meetings to be held in Gusher Hall rather than a restaurant or other facility out of the city.
With the food distribution being an event that benefits the entire community, the council agrees to enter into a new license agreement starting January 1s, 2026, and lasting for six months on the same terms.
Motion by Harris, 2°d by Horn.
Ayes: Harris, Horn, Bell
Noes: 0
Absent: Owens, Morse
Abstain:
Motion passed.
XI. New Business
None.
XII. Closed Session
None.
XIII. Come into Open Session
Not Applicable.
XIV: Council/Staff Items
None.
XV: Adjourn
Motion to end the meeting by Horn, 2nd by Harris.
Ayes: Harris, Horn, Bell
Noes: 0
Absent: Owens, Morse
Abstain: 0
The meeting is adjourned at 6:27 PM.
I certify that a copy of this agenda was posted at Maricopa City Hall, Gusher Hall, and Maricopa Post Office on January 8th, 2026.
Meghan Wilson, City Clerk
Maricopa City Council Agenda
Tuesday, January 27, 2026
6:00 PM
I. Call to Order and Pledge of Allegiance - At 6:05 pm, City Attorney Peake called the meeting to order, went to the Council members that were present and asked them to motion for one of them to be in charge of the meeting, due to the absence of the Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem.
Council Member Owens motioned Council Member Harris, and Council Member Horn second.
Ayes... .. Harris, Horn, Owens
Noes. 0
Abstain. .0
Absent. .. Bell, Morse
The meeting then continued, starting with the flag salute and then roll call.
Il. Roll Call
Mayor Cory Morse -Absent City Administrator Eric Ziegler Mayor Pro Tem Virgil Bell -Absent City Attorney Alan Peake Council Member Crystal Harris City Treasurer Dorine Horn Council Member John Horn City Clerk Meghan Wilson-Absent Council Member James Owens
III. Community Recognition-None
IV. Reorder of Agenda-None
V. Council Reports/Statements
a. Report by Public Safety/Sheriff Department/Fire Department - Activity Report was handed out. b. City Clerk Meghan Wilson - Absent
c. City Treasurer Dorine Horn - None
d. City Administrator Eric Ziegler - None
e. City Attorney Alan Peake - Stated about an agenda item that will be following in the future. f. City Council Members -
Council Member Horn asked if the Fire Dept. is ever going to come to the meetings and what about the camera's that are to be put up in our city.
Council Member Harris expressed concerns over excessive absenteeism re council member (s), and after the attorney explained it was not open for discussion, council member Owens suggested it be put on the agenda for discussion and action, Harris agreed that it should be brought back. g. Mayor Cory Morse - Absent
VI. Public Hearings
1) Open Public Hearing Re An Ordinance Of The City Council, Of The City Of Maricopa Amending Chapter 17.10.90 of the City of Maricopa Municipal Code (Zoning Code) Related to Fences and Walls; 2) Waive Reading Of An Ordinance Entitled An Ordinance Of The City Council Of The City Of Maricopa Amending Chapter 17.10.90 of the City of Maricopa Municipal Code (Zoning Code) Related to Fences and Walls; 3) Introduce An Ordinance Entitled An Ordinance Of The City Council, Of The City Of Maricopa Amending Chapter 17.10.90 of the City of Maricopa Municipal Code (Zoning Code) Related to Fences and Walls. 1) Open Public Hearing re AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MARICOPA AMENDING CHAPTER 17.10.90 OF THE CITY OF MARICOPA MUNICIPAL CODE (ZONING ORDINANCE) RELATED TO FENCES AND WALLS; The Public Hearing opened at 6:13 pm
2) Receive Staff Report re AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MARICOPA AMENDING CHAPTER 17.10. 90 OF THE CITY OF MARICOPA MUNICIPAL CODE (ZONING ORDINANCE) RELATED TO FENCES AND WALLS; Administrator Ziegler Explained the reason for the public hearing.-, with the process of the public hearing. Attorney Peake also explained the purpose of this public hearing. 3) Receive Public Comments/Input from Proponents of AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MARICOPA AMENDING CHAPTER 17.10.90 OF THE CITY OF MARICOPA MUNICIPAL CODE (ZONING ORDINANCE) RELATED TO FENCES AND WALLS; 4) Receive Public Comments/Input from Opponents of AN ORDINANCE OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MARICOPA AMENDING CHAPTER 17.10. 90 OF THE
CITY OF MARICOPA MUNICIPAL CODE (ZONING ORDINANCE) RELATED TO FENCES AND WALLS;
We received no comments from the public.
5) Close Public Hearing re AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MARICOPA AMENDING CHAPTER 17.10. 90 OF THE CITY OF MARICOPA MUNICIPAL CODE (ZONING ORDINANCE) RELATED TO FENCES AND WALLS; The Public Hearing closed at 6:23 pm
6) Council discussion, if any, re AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MARICOPA AMENDING CHAPTER 17.10. 90 OF THE CITY OF MARICOPA MUNICIPAL CODE (ZONING ORDINANCE) RELATED TO FENCES AND WALLS; The Council had no discussion, but to vote.
7) Consider motion to waive reading of an ordinance entitled AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MARICOPA AMENDING CHAPTER 17.10. 90 OF
THE CITY OF MARICOPA MUNICIPAL CODE (ZONING ORDINANCE) RELATED TO FENCES AND WALLS;
Council Member Owens motioned and Council Member Horn second.
Ayes... Harris, Horn, Owens
Noes. 0
Abstain 0
Absent. ..Bell, Morse
8) Consider motion to introduce an ordinance entitled AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MARICOPA AMENDING CHAPTER 17.10. 90 OF
THE CITY OF MARICOPA MUNICIPAL CODE (ZONING ORDINANCE) RELATED TO FENCES AND WALLS;
Council Member Horn motioned and Council Member Owens second.
Ayes... .. Harris, Horn, Owens
Noes. 0
Abstain.. ..0
Absent. ..Bell, Morse
VII. Public Commentary - None
VIlI. Approval of Minutes
Approve Special Meeting Minutes January 8, 2026
b. Approve Maricopa City Council Regular Agenda Minutes for January 13, 2026 Both minutes are tabled, due to lack of council present that attended meetings.
IX. Consent Calendar - None
X. Agendized Items
Adopt Resolution Entitled Resolution of The City Council of the City of Maricopa Amending Certain Personnel Policies and Procedures Governing Employees of the City of Maricopa by Adding a Policy on Bereavement Leave.
This item was tabled due to lack of eligible council votes.
XI. New Business
XII. Closed Session
XIII. Come into Open Session
XIV: Council/Staff Items - Council Member Owens, thanked everyone for his time off.
XV: Adjourn - At 6:28 pm, Council Member Horn motioned to adjourn meeting, Council Member Owens second.
Ayes.......... Harris, Horn, Owens
Noes..... .0
Abstain.. ....0
Absent. ..Bell, Morse
AGENDA ITEM
TITLE: dopt Resolution Entitled Resolution of The City Council of the City of Maricopa Amending Certai ersonnel Policies and Procedures Governing Employees of the City of Maricopa by Adding a Polic on Bereavement Leave
PROPOSED BY: Eric G. Ziegler
MEETING DATE: February 10, 2026
RECOMMENDATION
Motion to Adopt A Resolution of The City Council of the City of Maricopa Amending Certain Personnel Policies and Procedures Governing Employees of the City of Maricopa by Adding a Policy on Bereavement Leave
BACKGROUND
This item was tabled from the meeting of January 27, 2026 due to one member abstaining from voting. A majority vote is necessary for the motion to pass.
Chapter 2.40 of the Maricopa municipal Code as it now exists adopts a statutory Personnel system for the City of Maricopa. A portion of that system authorizes Council to adopt personnel policies and procedures by resolution.
Council adopted fairly comprehensive Personnel rules and regulations by resolution in 2019.
For whatever reason, those policies failed to address the matter of Bereavement Leave for city employees.
Attached hereto as Exhibit A is a proposed Bereavement Leave policy prepared by the City Attorney. The proposed policy is consistent with directions of the Council in November, 2025. As it turns out, state law also addresses the matter of Bereavement Leave. Thus, the City Attorney has conformed the proposed policy attached hereto with current law as well as with Council direction.
Staff recommends that the proposed policy entitled Bereavement Leave attached hereto as Exhibit A to Resolution Entitled Resolution of The City Council of the City of Maricopa Amending Certain Personnel Policies and Procedures Governing Employees of the City of Maricopa by Adding a Policy on Bereavement Leave City Adm.
Approval FISCAL IMPACT:
$
Eric G. Ziegler Funds Budgeted: Yes No Amount Required
Amount Budgeted Appropriation Requested
Account Number Reviewed by Finance
Cily of Maricopa
Personnel Policies and Procedures
Section 4:19 Bereavement: Leave
1. Purpose
To provide eligible employees with time off to grieve and allend to maiters related to the death of a qualilying family member, in accordance with californla Govemment Codes 12945.7
2. Eligibility
Employees are eligible for bereavement leave if they have been employed by the Cily for at least 30 days prior to the commencement of the leave.
1, Leave Entitlement
• Employees may take up to five (5) days of bereavement leave per qualiying death. • Leave may be taken non-consecutively, but must be completed within three (3) months of the date of death.
• Additional time off may be granted at the discretion of the Cily Administrator and may be charged to accrued vacation, compensatory time, or unpaid leave.
4. Covered Family Members
Bereavement leave may be used upon the death of an employees:
• Spouse or registered domestic partner
* Chic (biological, adopted, foster, step, or legal ward) • Parent (biological, acloptive, foster, step, or legal guardian} • Sibling
• Grandparent or grandchild
• Parent-in-law
• Any person standing in loco parentis to the employee
5 Compensation
• Permanent employees are allowed compensation for up io three (3) working days oT 24 hours bereavement leave, regardless of their work schedule per calendar year.
• Employees may elect lo use accued pail leave (e.g., vacalion, sick leave, or Hoaling holiday) to receive compensation during the leave beyond the 3 days paid by the City.
6. Notice and Documentation
• Employees must notify their supervisor as soon as practicable of the need for bereavement leave.
• The City may require reasonable documentation of the death, such as a death certificate, obituary, or verification from a funeral home.
7. Confidentiality
All information related to bereavement leave will be handled with sensitivity and confidentiality in accordance with applicable laws.
8, Non-Retaliation
Employees exercising their right to bereavement leave shall not be subject to retaliation or adverse employment action.
RESOLUTION NO._ -
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MARICOPA AMENDING
CERTAIN PERSONNEL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES GOVERNING EMPLOYEES
OF THE CITY OF MARICOPA BY ADDING A POLICY ON BEREAVEMENT LEAVE WHEREAS, Chapter 2.40 of the Maricopa Municipal Code adopts a statutory Personnel System for the City of Maricopa and
WHEREAS, Section 2.40.050 of the Maricopa Municipal Code authorizes the City Council to adopt Personnel Rules and Regulations/ Personnel Policies and Procedures by Resolution of the City Council, and, WHEREAS in 2019, the City Council of the City of Maricopa adopted certain Personnel Rules and Regulations/Policies and Procedures by Resolution of the City Council; and WHEREAS the City Council wishes to amend such Personnel Rules and Regulations/Policies and Procedures by adding a policy on Bereavement Leave for employees of the City of Maricopa; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Maricopa as follows:
Pursuant to Section 2.40.050 of the Maricopa Municipal Code, the City Council of the City of Maricopa hereby amends the Personnel Rules and Regulations/Policies and Procedures by adding Exhibit A attached hereto entitled Bereavement Leave.
SECTION 2: This Resolution shall become effective on February 10, 2026 SECTION 2: All resolutions or parts of resolutions in conflict herewith are hereby repealed.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 10th day of February, 2026.
City Council of Maricopa, California
BY:_
CORY MORSE, Mayor
ATTEST: APPROVED AS TO FORM:
BY: BY:
MEGHAN WILSON, City Clerk ALAN PEAKE, City Attorney
AGENDA ITEM
A Proclamation of the City of Maricopa Proclaiming February 2026 as Safely Surrendered Baby Awareness Month in the City of Maricopa
PROPOSED BY: Eric G. Ziegler
MEETING DATE: February 10, 2026
RECOMMENDATION
Motion to Proclaim February 2026, as Safely Surrendered Baby Awareness Month in the City of Maricopa.
BACKGROUND
This item is placed on the agenda at the request of Stephanie Love, with Kern County Department of Human Services.
Attached hereto is correspondence from Kern County Department of Human Services requesting that the City Council of the City of Maricopa favorably consider proclaiming February 2026 as Safely Surrendered Baby Awareness Month by Proclamation.
Staff recommends that Council adopt a Motion to Proclaim February 2026 as Safely Surrendered Baby Awareness Month in the City of Maricopa."
[email protected]
From: Stephanie Love <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, January 20, 2026 3:20 PM
To: [email protected]
Subject: Proclamation Request for City Council
Attachments: KCDHS 668-SSB (6-15).pdf; SSB Maricopa Proclamation Request 2026.docx Hello Lauri,
lam a part of the Safely Surrendered Baby Coalition whose goal is to raise awareness for the Safely Surrendered Law in California. I have attached a brochure with further information on the law.
To help raise awareness, our coalition reaches out to local city councils to proclaim February as the Safely Surrendered Baby awareness month during a city council meeting in February.
I have attached a proclamation request letter for the desired city council date of February 9, 2026 at 6:00pm.
Please email me to confirm we are scheduled for this date.
Thank you,
KERN Stephanie love
HUMAN SERVICES COUNTY
Marketing & Promotions Associate | Desk: 661.631.6414
COMMUNICATIONS DIVISION Cell: 661.451.8597
EXECUTIVE BUREAU Email:[email protected]
Kern County Human Heartbeat of KCDHS.org KernCountyDHS
Services Bakersfield Human Services
KCHS Confidentiality Notice: The information contained in this e-mail message and any attachments) is the property of the County of Kern and may be protected by County, State and Federal laws governing disclosure of private information. It is intended solely for the use of the entity to whom this e-mail is addressed. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that reading, copying, distribution or use of the information contained herein is STRICTLY PROHIBITED. The sender has not waived any applicable privilege by sending the accompanying transmission. If you have received this transmission in error, please notify the sender by returning the e-mail, and destroy the material in its entirety, whether in electronic or hard copy format. Thank you.
KERN (ST COUN
COUNTY CALIFORNI
HUMAN SERVICES Lito Morillo
Director
February 9, 2026
Maricopa City Council
400 California Street
Maricopa, CA 93252
PROCLAIM FEBRUARY 2026 AS SAFE SURRENDER BABY
AWARENESS MONTH IN KERN COUNTY
The purpose of this letter is to ask the Maricopa City Council to proclaim February 2026 as Safely Surrender Baby Awareness Month and to advise the community of planned events to highlight the importance of the Safely Surrendered Baby Law.
The Safely Surrendered Baby Law responds to the increasing number of newborn infant deaths due to abandonment in unsafe locations. First created in January 2001, the law's intent is to save the lives of newborn infants at risk of abandonment by encouraging parents or persons with lawful custody to safely surrender the infant within 72 hours of birth, with no questions asked. Since 2006, Kern County has had 105 babies safely surrendered.
In Kern County, a newborn baby can be safely surrendered into the hands of any hospital emergency room or Fire Station staff. The Safely Surrendered Baby Coalition, under the coordination of the Department of Human Services, works to educate Kern County residents about this important law.
The coalition is led by the Department of Human Services, and includes a group of dedicated individuals representing a long list of agencies, non-profits, hospitals, and stakeholders, including First Five Kern, the Kern County Fire Department, Bakersfield City Fire Department, Bakersfield Pregnancy Center, Right to Life Kern County, Adventist Health Hospitals, Clinica Sierra Vista, Kern Family Healthcare, Koinonia Family Services, Kern County Public Health, and Ridgecrest Regional Hospital.
Our February Awareness Campaign will include, a Live Press Conference February 18, 2026 at Adventist Health Specialty located at 3001 Sillect Ave, Bakersfield CA 93308 beginning at 10:00am, over 15 presentations at collaborative agencies throughout Kern County and Public Services Announcements on social media, all in an effort to alert the ommy bot Sly Surrendered Baby Law as a much better option than abandoning a baby Therefore, IT IS RECOMMENDED that the City Council proclaim February 2026 as Safely Surrendered Baby Awareness Month, prepare a proclamation and make a presentation.
Sincerely,
Lito Morillo
Director
GROUNDED & BOUNDLESS
100 E. California Avenue, P.O. Box 511, Bakersfield, CA 93302 | 661.631.6000 | www.KCDHS.org Certainly we want women to get proper medical
care and counseling while they are pregnant, not
after giving birth. But at the same time, we want
Safely Surrendered
parents to know that if they choose not to keep their
for Newborns* is a baby, they will not go to jail for abandonment if they deliver the baby to safe hands in any emergency
room or Fire Station in Kern County.
law that allows you
to give up your baby. The California Safely Surrendered Baby Law:
There is an option.
• Permits the parents) or surrendering
person to safely and confidentially,
surrender a baby within three days of
birth into the hands of any fire station or
It's safe.
emergency room staff in Kern County.
• Provides a safe place for babies.
It's legal.
• Protects the parents) from arrest or
prosecution for abandonment. no shame.
And, no one • Does not require that names be given
when the baby is surrendered.
needs to know. no blame.
In California, no one ever
has to abandon a child again. no names.
Don't abandon your baby.
You can safely surrender
your newborn baby (up to
www.KCDHS.org three days old) into the
hands of any fire station or
emergency room staff in
Kern County.
@kerncountyDHS
KERN
COUNTY
) HUMAN SERVICES
100 E. California Ave.
Bakersfield, CA 93307
Tel 661.631.6600 • Fax 661.631.6631
TTY 800.735.2929 Questions, Call 211 or
* Up to three days old. 1-877-BABYSAF (222-9723)
KCDHS is an equal opportunity agency.
KCDHS 668-SSB (6/15)
What is the Does a parent have to tell anything to the people accepting the baby? A Safely Surrendered Baby in California Safely Surrendered No. Nothing is required. However, hospital personnel will give the parent a medical information At 8:30 a.m. on Thursday, July 25, 2002, Baby Law? a healthy newborn baby was brought to St.
questionnaire that is designed to gather family
Under this law, a person medical history. This could be very useful in caring for Bernardine Medical Center in San Bernardino may surrender their baby the child but it is up to the parent to complete it. under the provisions of the California Safely confidentially without fear Surrendered Baby Law.
of arrest or prosecution for What happens to the baby?
abandonment. The baby will be examined and given medical This baby was another child protected under treatment, if needed. Then the baby will be placed in California's Safely Surrendered Baby Law. As a foster or pre-adoptive home. the law states, the baby's mother did not have to identify herself. When the baby was brought
What happens to the parent? to the emergency room, he was examined by a Once the parents) has safely turned over the baby, pediatrician and was healthy and doing fine. they are free to go. He was placed in a foster home for short-term care while the adoption process was started.
What if a parent wants the baby back?
The parents) may take the bracelet back to the
hospital. Under the SSB Law, a parent has at least 14
days to claim his or her infant. Hospital personnel will Every baby deserves a provide information about the baby.
chance for a healthy
Why does California have this law?
The purpose of the Safely Surrendered Baby Law is to life. If you or someone protect babies from being hurt or killed because they you know is considering You may have heard tragic stories of babies left giving up a newborn, in dumpsters or public toilets. The persons who learn about your options. committed these acts may have been under severe
emotional distress. The mothers may have hidden
How does it work?
their pregnancies, fearful of what would happen if
A distressed parent who is unable or unwilling to care their families found out. Because they were afraid for an infant can legally, confidentially and safely and had nowhere to turn for help, they abandoned surrender their baby within 3 days of birth. All that
is required is that the baby be brought to any fire
station or emergency room. If there are additional Abandoning a baby puts the child in extreme places, they will be listed on this brochure. A bracelet danger. It is also illegal. Too often, it results in the will be placed on the baby for identification. A oaby's death. Because of the Safely Surrendered matching bracelet will be given to the parent. The Baby Law, this tragedy doesn't ever have to happen bracelet will help connect the parent to the baby if in California again. the parent wants the baby back.
Is there another choice?
Does the parent have to call before bringing Yes. Adoption is always a choice and should be in the baby? considered first. Whenever parents have decided No. A parent can bring in a baby anytime, 24 hours a that they are unable to care for a baby, whatever day, 7 days a week. the reason, adoption is by far the best choice.
Adoption protects the rights of all involved, including Can only a parent bring in the baby? the baby. In fact, parents may be able to assist in In most cases, a parent will bring in the baby. The selecting the adoptive parents and may be allowed aw allows another person to bring in the baby if they to have contact with the baby after the adoption. Questions, Call 211 or have lawful custody. It's important for women to seek help while they are 1-877-BABYSAF (222-9723) oregnant, not after giving birth.
A Proclamation of
The City of Maricopa, California
Safely Surrendered Baby Awareness Month
Whereas, the Safely Surrendered Baby Law (SSB) was implemented on January 1, 2001, with the intent to prevent harm and possible death to newborns, and; Whereas, the intent of the law is to save the lives of newborn infants at risk of abandonment by encouraging parents or persons with lawful custody to safely surrender the infant within 72 hours of birth, with no questions asked; and Whereas, in Kern County, a newborn baby can be safely surrendered into the hands of any hospital emergency room or Fire Station staff; and Whereas, since 2006 there have been 105 newborns safely surrendered in Kern County; and
Whereas, the Safely Surrendered Baby Coalition, under the coordination of the Department of Human Services, works to educate Maricopa citizens and all Kern County residents about this important law. The coalition is made up of a small group of dedicated individuals representing a long list of agencies, non-profits, hospitals, and stakeholders, including First Five Kern, the Kern County Fire Department, Bakersfield City Fire Department, Bakersfield Pregnancy Center, Right to Life Kern County, Adventist Health Hospitals, Clinica Sierra Vista, Kern Family Healthcare, Koinonia Family Services, Kern County Public Health, and Ridgecrest Regional Hospital.
Now, therefore be it proclaimed by the City Council of the City of Maricopa that it does hereby proclaim the month of February, 2026 as Safely Surrendered Baby Awareness Month and encourages all Maricopa citizens to reach out and assist the Safely Surrendered Baby Coalition with their endeavors.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have
hereby set my hand and caused
the seal of the City of Maricopa to
be affixed hereto this 10" day of
February, 2026.
By_
Cory Morse, Mayor
AGENDA ITEM
TITLE: Discussion/Direction/Action re Elected Official Absences and Related Matters PROPOSED BY: City Council
MEETING DATE: February 10, 2026
RECOMMENDATION
None
BACKGROUND
This matter is placed on the agenda as directed by City Council at the regularly scheduled meeting of Tuesday, January 27, 2026.
City Adm.
Approval FISCAL IMPACT:
$
Eric G. Ziegler Funds Budgeted: Yes | Amount Required
Amount Budgeted Appropriation Requested
Account Number Reviewed by Finance
AGENDA ITEM
TITLE Adopt Ordinance Entitled An Ordinance Of The City Council, Of The City Of Maricopa Amending
17.10.90 of the City of Maricopa Municipal Code (Zoning Code) Related to Fences and Walls.
PROPOSED BY: Eric G. Ziegler
MEETING DATE: February 10, 2026
RECOMMENDATION
Motion to adopt AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MARICOPA AMENDING CHAPTER 17.10.90 OF THE CITY OF MARICOPA MUNICIPAL CODE (ZONING ORDINANCE)
RELATED TO FENCES AND WALLS
BACKGROUND
At the regularly scheduled meeting of Tuesday, January 27, 2026 the Council conducted a public hearing re a proposed ordinance entitled An Ordinance Of The City Council, Of The City Of Maricopa Amending Chapte17.10.90 of the City of Maricopa Municipal Code (Zoning Code) Related to Fences and Walls.
Following the Public Hearing, Council adopted two motions, these being 1) a motion to waive reading of an ordinance entitled AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MARICOPA AMENDING CHAPTER 17.10.90 OF THE CITY OF MARICOPA MUNICIPAL CODE (ZONING ORDINANCE) RELATED TO FENCES AND WALLS; 2) a motion to Introduce AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MARICOPA AMENDING CHAPTER 17.10.90 OF THE CITY OF
MARICOPA MUNICIPAL CODE (ZONING ORDINANCE) RELATED TO FENCES AND WALLS Should Council now wish to adopt the ordinance in question, it is appropriate to favorably consider a motion to ADOPT AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MARICOPA AMENDING CHAPTER 17.10. 90 OF THE CITY OF MARICOPA MUNICIPAL CODE (ZONING ORDINANCE) RELATED TO FENCES AND WALLS City Adm.
Approval FISCAL IMPACT:
$
LINo
Eric G. Ziegler Funds Budgeted: Yes Amount Required
Amount Budgeted Appropriation Requested
Account Number Reviewed by Finance
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF MARICOPA AMENDING CHAPTER
17.10.90 OF THE CITY OF MARICOPA ZONING ORDINANCE CODE
RELATING TO FENCES AND WALLS
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that objective standards for fence and wall height, materials, and placement are necessary to ensure public safety, aesthetic consistency, and equitable application of zoning laws;
The City Council of the City of Maricopa does hereby ordain as follows:
SECTION 1. PURPOSE
The purpose of this ordinance is to clarify and update regulations governing the height and placement of fences and walls within residential and commercial zones, ensuring consistency with safety, aesthetic, and privacy standards.
SECTION 2. AMENDMENT
Amend Chapter 17.10.90 FENCES AND WALLS Section 1. (a) to revise maximum allowable fence and wall heights as follows:
fence stall noy eid ed finches i reside strect of a reversed corner lot, a wall or SECTION 3. SEVERABILITY
If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase of this ordinance is held invalid, the remainder shall not be affected.
SECTION 4. EFFECTIVE DATE
This ordinance shall take effect 30 days after adoption/ upon publication /as otherwise provided by law.
PASSED AND ADOPTED this of _2026, by the
following vote.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
IDE TRE CITY OF MARIGORA ZONE ORURENCE CODE RELO
ATTEST: CITY OF MARICOPA
By:
Meghan A. Wilson, City Clerk Cory Morse, Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Alan Peake, City Attorney