City of Needles
Washington Street
B/ Park Avenue - Bailey Street
24 Hour Directional Speed Survey
NDL001
Site Code: 219-25566
Counts Unlimited, Inc.
PO Box 1178
Corona, CA 92878
Phone: (951) 268-6268
email: [email protected]
Eastbound
Start 1 16 21 26 31 36 41 46 51 56 61 66 71 76
Time 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 70 75 999 Total
05/22/25 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1
01:00 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1
02:00 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1
03:00 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2
04:00 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2
05:00 0 0 7 2 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 12
06:00 3 2 1 6 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 15
07:00 4 18 27 17 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 68
08:00 1 2 12 14 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 35
09:00 1 3 12 10 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 27
10:00 0 4 9 9 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 25
11:00 1 3 4 4 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 16
12 PM 6 4 24 11 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 47
13:00 3 4 18 8 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 38
14:00 12 16 27 15 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 74
15:00 2 5 20 9 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 39
16:00 1 1 11 10 13 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 36
17:00 0 0 7 6 14 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 31
18:00 1 1 4 12 7 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 26
19:00 1 5 8 8 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 28
20:00 0 0 3 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 8
21:00 0 0 3 3 3 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 10
22:00 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2
23:00 1 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3
Total 37 69 198 156 79 8 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 547
Daily 15th Percentile : 18 MPH
50th Percentile : 24 MPH
85th Percentile : 30 MPH
95th Percentile : 33 MPH
Statistics Mean Speed(Average) : 24 MPH
10 MPH Pace Speed : 21-30 MPH
Number in Pace : 354
Percent in Pace : 64.7%
Number of Vehicles > 55 MPH : 0
Percent of Vehicles > 55 MPH : 0.0%
Agenda Item 26.
City of Needles
Washington Street
B/ Park Avenue - Bailey Street
24 Hour Directional Speed Survey
NDL001
Site Code: 219-25566
Counts Unlimited, Inc.
PO Box 1178
Corona, CA 92878
Phone: (951) 268-6268
email: [email protected]
Westbound
Start 1 16 21 26 31 36 41 46 51 56 61 66 71 76
Time 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 70 75 999 Total
05/22/25 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3
01:00 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1
02:00 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
03:00 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1
04:00 0 0 1 4 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 6
05:00 0 2 3 3 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 9
06:00 3 3 3 7 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 17
07:00 31 58 44 12 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 147
08:00 4 10 24 16 3 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 58
09:00 2 3 13 4 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 28
10:00 1 7 12 7 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 27
11:00 2 4 17 10 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 34
12 PM 21 24 14 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 65
13:00 5 11 17 8 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 44
14:00 33 21 14 8 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 78
15:00 13 10 11 9 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 44
16:00 0 4 8 10 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 27
17:00 3 5 14 12 2 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 37
18:00 1 4 9 3 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 19
19:00 3 7 13 7 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 33
20:00 0 3 11 3 3 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 21
21:00 0 2 3 3 3 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 12
22:00 0 1 2 2 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 7
23:00 0 1 2 3 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 8
Total 122 180 240 137 42 3 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 726
Daily 15th Percentile : 13 MPH
50th Percentile : 21 MPH
85th Percentile : 27 MPH
95th Percentile : 31 MPH
Statistics Mean Speed(Average) : 21 MPH
10 MPH Pace Speed : 16-25 MPH
Number in Pace : 420
Percent in Pace : 57.9%
Number of Vehicles > 55 MPH : 0
Percent of Vehicles > 55 MPH : 0.0%
Agenda Item 26.
City of Needles
Washington Street
B/ Park Avenue - Bailey Street
24 Hour Directional Speed Survey
NDL001
Site Code: 219-25566
Counts Unlimited, Inc.
PO Box 1178
Corona, CA 92878
Phone: (951) 268-6268
email: [email protected]
Eastbound, Westbound
Start 1 16 21 26 31 36 41 46 51 56 61 66 71 76
Time 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 70 75 999 Total
05/22/25 0 0 3 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 4
01:00 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2
02:00 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1
03:00 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3
04:00 0 0 1 6 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 8
05:00 0 2 10 5 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 21
06:00 6 5 4 13 3 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 32
07:00 35 76 71 29 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 215
08:00 5 12 36 30 9 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 93
09:00 3 6 25 14 7 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 55
10:00 1 11 21 16 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 52
11:00 3 7 21 14 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 50
12 PM 27 28 38 17 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 112
13:00 8 15 35 16 8 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 82
14:00 45 37 41 23 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 152
15:00 15 15 31 18 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 83
16:00 1 5 19 20 18 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 63
17:00 3 5 21 18 16 4 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 68
18:00 2 5 13 15 9 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 45
19:00 4 12 21 15 9 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 61
20:00 0 3 14 8 3 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 29
21:00 0 2 6 6 6 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 22
22:00 0 1 2 3 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 9
23:00 1 1 2 5 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 11
Total 159 249 438 293 121 11 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1273
Daily 15th Percentile : 15 MPH
50th Percentile : 22 MPH
85th Percentile : 29 MPH
95th Percentile : 32 MPH
Statistics Mean Speed(Average) : 22 MPH
10 MPH Pace Speed : 21-30 MPH
Number in Pace : 731
Percent in Pace : 57.4%
Number of Vehicles > 55 MPH : 0
Percent of Vehicles > 55 MPH : 0.0%
Agenda Item 26.
School Zone Signing and Striping Plans
(Installation Work Order)
Agenda Item 26.
Existing School
Driveway Entrance
Existing School
Driveway Exit
SCHOOL ENTRANCE
VISTA COLORADO
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
NEEDLES MIDDLE
SCHOOL
PARKING AREA NEEDLES HIGH SCHOOL NEEDLES HIGH SCHOOL
SCHOOL EXIT
S L STREET
HIGHLAND AVENUE
WASHINGTON STREET FAIRMONT AVENUE PARK AVENUE
COLLINS STREET ORANGE AVENUE BAILEY AVENUE
WASHINGTON STREET
COLLINS STREET PARK AVENUE
07/09/25
Agenda Item 26.
BUS TURN-OUT
ERIN DRIVE ORANGE AVENUE BAILEY AVENUE BAILEY AVENUE BAILEY AVENUE
ERIN DRIVE
ERIN DRIVE EARL COURT
07/09/25
Agenda Item 26.
City of Needles, California
Request for City Council Action
CITY COUNCIL NPUA Regular Special
Meeting Date: August 12, 2025
Title: Multi-Way Stop Warrant and Crosswalk Evaluation – Broadway St. & B Street Background: At the April 8, 2025, City Council meeting, Councilmember Campbell requested that staff evaluate the need for a marked crosswalk on Broadway Street between “A” Street and “B” Street to enhance pedestrian safety. TKE Engineering, Inc., the City’s Contract Engineer, was retained to conduct an engineering study for crosswalk installation at this location and to perform a stop warrant analysis at the nearest uncontrolled intersection.
TKE Engineering performed an on-site review during school and business hours, collected collision and traffic data, and analyzed conditions in accordance with Section 2B-07 of the California Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (CA MUTCD) for Multi-Way Stop Applications.
Based on engineering judgment and observed sight distance constraints, TKE recommends installing an all-way stop and marked crosswalks at the intersection of Broadway Street and B Street. Therefore, TKE completed a plan for the installation of the appropriate signage and striping.
Cost for the installation of signage and striping by Public Works staff is estimated to be $3,500.
Fiscal Impact: The estimated cost for installing the multi-way stop and associated crosswalk improvements is approximately $3,500. Funding would need to come from the Public Works Street Paint and Signs budget
Environmental Impact: N/A
Recommended Action: Provide direction to staff on whether to proceed with the installation of the recommended multi-way stop and crosswalk improvements at Broadway Street and B Street.
Submitted By: Kathy Raasch, Director of Development Services/Capital Projects City Manager Approval: Date:
Other Department Approval (when required): Date:
Approved: Not Approved: Tabled: Other:
8/7/2025
8/8/2025
Agenda Item 27.
Agenda Item 27.
Agenda Item 27.
Agenda Item 27.
Agenda Item 27.
Agenda Item 27.
Agenda Item 27.
Agenda Item 27.
Proposed Crossing
B Street and W Broadway Street
Legend
Hardware Express
100 ft
N
➤
Image © 2025 Airbus
Image © 2025 Airbs
Agenda Item 27.
City of Needles 817 Third Street, Needles, California 92363 (760) 326-2113 • FAX (760) 326-6765
www.cityofneedles.com
Mayor, Janet Jernigan
Vice Mayor Ellen Campbell
Councilmember Tona Belt
Councilmember Jamie McCorkle
Councilmember JoAnne Pogue
Councilmember Henry Longbrake
Councilmember Larry Ford
City Manager Patrick J. Martinez
MEMORANDUM
TO: HONORABLE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FROM: PATRICK J. MARTINEZ, CITY MANAGER
SUBJECT: WEEKLY MEMORANDUM
DATE: July 25, 2025
1. Peanuts Foundation Highlights Needles’ Role in National Celebration Attached is the official press release from Peanuts Worldwide and the Foundation for Hospital Art announcing a community celebration in Needles on August 12, 2025, commemorating the 75th anniversary of the Peanuts comic strip and the 50th anniversary of Spike’s debut. The event honors Needles’ unique connection to Charles Schulz—who spent part of his childhood in the city and later used it as inspiration for the character Spike. As part of the celebration, the Colorado River Medical Center will receive two large-scale, paint-by-number murals donated by the Foundation for Hospital Art, featuring classic Peanuts characters and a special desert-themed design showcasing Spike. Community members will be invited to participate in the painting during the event. The press release also outlines the broader “Take Care With Peanuts” initiative and includes remarks from Schulz’s granddaughter Stephanie Revelli, Peanuts leadership, and local officials. This national recognition shines a spotlight on Needles as a meaningful part of the Peanuts legacy and reflects how community, art, and storytelling can come together to support healing and civic pride.
2. Citywide Maintenance and Beautification Efforts Continue The City of Needles continues to prioritize infrastructure, safety, and community pride through ongoing, visible improvements across the city. This week, Public Works crews completed targeted sidewalk repairs in areas affected by heatrelated buckling. Damaged concrete sections were removed and replaced in the neighborhoods of Lillyhill, D Street, and F Street. These improvements enhance safety, walkability, and the appearance of our residential areas. Photos showing the completed concrete work are attached. In addition, crews addressed extensive weed growth caused by recent rains, with a focus on highly visible locations including Train Park. These cleanup efforts improve both aesthetics and public visibility. We also extend a special thank you to the property owner on Walnut Street for initiating the demolition of a partially burned structure. The City continues to work closely with property owners to address blight and
encourage property upkeep. These actions reflect the City Council’s commitment to maintaining clean, safe, and vibrant neighborhoods. Residents can report concerns by calling 760-326-2115 (press #9) or using the Needles Connect app on Google Play Store (Android) and Apple Store (iOS).
Together, we’re building a safer, stronger Needles!
3. Route 66 Centennial Promotion – Visit California Content Coordination City staff continues to coordinate with Visit California to ensure the City of Needles is featured in upcoming statewide marketing efforts tied to the Route 66 Centennial in 2026. As one of California’s most historic Route 66 communities, Needles serves as a gateway to the state and holds a unique place in the story of America’s most iconic highway. This work supports the City Council’s strategic goal to promote tourism, celebrate our history, and strengthen Needles’ identity as a destination rooted in culture and community pride.
Visit California is currently accepting submissions through its online Content Submission Tool. Staff is aligning local stories and visuals with Visit California’s 2025 editorial calendar to maximize exposure. With July already underway, upcoming themes offer several strong opportunities: August (accommodations, camping, glamping), September (wine/beer/surf), October (fall events and Halloween), and December (holidays and Route 66 Centennial previews). To submit content for editorial consideration, click here. These themes provide timely ways to showcase our OHV access, outdoor recreation, events, lodging, and our lead role in the 2026 Centennial celebration. Through this partnership, Needles has the opportunity to be featured across Visit California’s digital and print platforms, reinforcing our presence as a key stop along the Mother Road.
Staff will continue to submit targeted content and collaborate with local partners to elevate Needles’ visibility in the months leading up to the Centennial.
4. Upcoming Community Event: Night Pool Party – August 2 On Saturday, August 2, Tri-State Community Healthcare will sponsor a free Night Pool Party at the Needles Aquatic Center, located at 1661 J Street, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. The event will feature complimentary hot dogs, chips, and drinks, along with water bounce house slides, a water balloon toss competition, and open pool activities for all ages. This fun, family-friendly event is designed to offer Needles residents a safe and festive environment to beat the summer heat, enjoy outdoor recreation, and connect with one another. Entry is free, and everyone is welcome. We appreciate Tri-State’s continued support of community health and engagement and encourage all residents to join us for this special evening. See attached flyer for mor information.
5. Camp Gauntlet: Top Chef Jr. Week – July 21–24, 2025
Camp Gauntlet continued its successful programming with “Top Chef Jr. Week,” held July 21–24, 2025. This themed week provided youth participants with a hands-on culinary experience, allowing them to engage in every step of the cooking process—from selecting a country and building a menu to prepping ingredients, cooking meals, and plating the final dishes. Each child received a chef’s hat and apron, which they wore proudly throughout the program and were able to take home as a keepsake. Throughout the week, participants prepared a
variety of meals, including spaghetti and meatballs with bread, orange chicken with rice and egg rolls, hamburgers with tater tots, and tacos with rice. The camp fostered creativity, teamwork, and life skills in a fun and engaging environment. We appreciate the efforts of our staff and volunteers who helped make this week a memorable and educational experience for the youth of Needles.
6. City of Needles Resources Guide – Support Services for Residents In light of recent public concern following the City Council’s advancement of the illegal camping ordinance, the City of Needles is reminding residents about the “City of Needles Resources” guide developed by staff. This comprehensive directory connects residents with essential services, including low-income housing, shelters, food distribution, employment support, utility assistance, medical supply providers, and public transportation options. It also includes contacts for veterans’ services, legal aid, health care, educational resources, local churches, and emergency hotlines. The guide is designed to help individuals and families access the support they need to improve quality of life.
A digital copy is available online, and printed versions can be requested through City Hall.
7. Youth Golf Camp Building Future Champions in Needles The Annual Summer Youth Golf Camp is nearing completion, with just a few weeks left in the 12-week program. Hosted at Rivers Edge Golf Course, the Touchstone-operated camp has brought dozens of local youth together for a summer of hands-on learning, sportsmanship, and fun. Touchstone, the City’s golf course operator, continues to be a strong partner in delivering high-quality recreation programs for our community. Beyond golf fundamentals, the camp builds discipline, confidence, and teamwork—laying a foundation for the next generation of Needles High School golfers and future state champions. Next week, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department will host its annual Putting Contest with camp participants, reinforcing community connections and encouraging youth engagement. Attached photos capture the energy, focus, and growth of our campers—underscoring how City partnerships and recreational programming are investing in our youth and shaping future leaders.
8. Eagles Aerie 2599 Fundraiser to Support Local Family The Needles Eagles Aerie 2599 is holding a raffle fundraiser to benefit the Amstutz Family, with all proceeds going directly to their support. The top prize is a one-year golf membership at River’s Edge Golf Course valued at $1,600, followed by cash prizes of $100 for second place and $50 for third. Tickets are $50 each, with only 100 available. Those interested in purchasing a ticket can contact the Eagles directly at 729 Front St, Needles, CA 92363 or by phone at (760) 326-2599.
9. Submit Your Nomination – 28th Annual Community Achievement Awards The Laughlin Chamber of Commerce is now accepting nominations for the 28th Annual Community Achievement Awards, recognizing individuals, businesses, clubs, and organizations that make a meaningful impact throughout the
Colorado River Region. Needles is encouraged to participate—our city has not had an award recipient since 2023, when George DeLeon, Scotty Leonard, and Nicolle Wilson were honored. Let’s make sure Needles is represented again this year. Please nominate a person, business, club, or organization that has made significant contributions in Needles. Eligible nominees must work, reside, do business, and/or provide services in the Colorado River Region. Nominations are due by August 18, 2025. Submit your nomination by clicking here.
10.Community Events Calendar Now Live on City Website
As part of the City’s newly launched website, we’re excited to introduce a comprehensive Community Events Calendar designed to keep residents informed about the many activities and happenings across Needles. We invite local organizations and event organizers to collaborate with the City Clerk’s Office to add or update events—helping ensure the calendar remains vibrant, inclusive, and reflective of our community’s diverse offerings. To contribute or request modifications, please contact Candace Clark at
[email protected]. Your participation helps strengthen community spirit and enrich the local experience for residents and visitors alike.
1. PEANUTS PRESS RELEASE
1. PEANUTS PRESS RELEASE
2. CITYWIDE BEAUTIFICATION
2. CITYWIDE BEAUTIFICATION
2. CITYWIDE BEAUTIFICATION
2. CITYWIDE BEAUTIFICATION
3. ROUTE 66 CENTENNIAL PROMOTION
4. TRI-STATE NIGHT POOL PARTY
5. CAMP GAUNTLET TOP CHEF
6. RESOURCE GUIDE
6. RESOURCE GUIDE
7. GOLF SUMMER CAMP
8. EAGLES FUNDRAISER
City of Needles 817 Third Street, Needles, California 92363 (760) 326-2113 • FAX (760) 326-6765
www.cityofneedles.com
Mayor, Janet Jernigan
Vice Mayor Ellen Campbell
Councilmember Tona Belt
Councilmember Jamie McCorkle
Councilmember JoAnne Pogue
Councilmember Henry Longbrake
Councilmember Larry Ford
City Manager Patrick J. Martinez
MEMORANDUM
TO: HONORABLE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FROM: PATRICK J. MARTINEZ, CITY MANAGER
SUBJECT: WEEKLY MEMORANDUM
DATE: August 1, 2025
1. Vegetation Fire Jack Smith Park – Regional Response and Containment On Saturday, July 26, 2025, at approximately 7:26 p.m., a vegetation fire broke out near Jack Smith Memorial Park. The incident prompted a rapid and coordinated response from City staff, San Bernardino County Fire, San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, BNSF, and the Mohave Valley Fire Department. Thanks to this strong multi-agency effort, the fire was fully contained with no reported injuries or structural damage. This incident underscores the importance of regional collaboration, particularly with the Mohave Valley Fire Department, whose timely support was critical in helping contain the fire. The fire originated near a homeless encampment along the river’s edge. A suspect, Shawn Brown, was located and arrested by deputies early the following morning. He remains in custody at the Colorado River Station, with bail set at $30,000. See attached press release and event photos for additional details.
2. Reminder: Night Pool Party – Tomorrow, August 2
Don’t miss the free Night Pool Party sponsored by Tri-State Community Healthcare tomorrow, Saturday, August 2, at the Needles Aquatic Center (1661 J Street) from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. This fun-filled, family-friendly event will include complimentary hot dogs, chips, and drinks, water bounce house slides, a water balloon toss competition, and open swimming for all ages. This is a great opportunity to cool off, enjoy outdoor fun, and connect with neighbors in a safe and festive environment. Entry is free and all are welcome. See attached flyer for more details.
3. Reminder: Backpack & School Supply Drive – Donations Due August 5 The Colorado River Sheriff’s Station / Needles Police Department is still accepting donations for its Backpack and School Supply Drive to benefit Needles Unified School District students. The deadline to donate is Monday, August 5, 2025. New backpacks, school supplies, and monetary contributions are welcome and will go directly toward helping local families prepare for the
new school year. Donations can be coordinated through Community Relations Officer Misti Hunt at (760) 326-9207 or [email protected]. Checks should be made payable to “River Daze.” Thank you to everyone who has contributed so far—your support makes a difference!
4. Citywide Maintenance and Beautification Efforts Continue The City of Needles remains focused on infrastructure, safety, and community pride through ongoing, visible improvements. Ahead of the new school year starting August 13, Public Works crews repainted crosswalks near school zones to ensure clear, high-visibility paths for students and families. Crews also trimmed trees encroaching on power lines at the Golf Course Maintenance Yard as part of fire abatement efforts, reducing hazards and protecting utility infrastructure. Pothole repair remains a top priority. The City continues to respond to road surface issues across neighborhoods, with a recent repair completed on D Street as part of these ongoing efforts to improve drivability and extend roadway life. Special thanks to Frontier Communications for clearing overgrown vegetation at their Front Street property and to the property owner on D Street for removing abandoned vehicles and cleaning up their parcel. These improvements enhance neighborhood safety, appearance, and quality of life.
This work reflects the City Council’s commitment to maintaining clean, safe, and resilient community spaces through active partnership and stewardship. Photos from this week’s efforts are attached.
5. Mayor Jernigan Showcases Needles on KNTR’s “Speak Out” On May 30, 2025, Mayor Janet Jernigan appeared on KNTR’s Speak Out radio show alongside Hanna Guy, Senior Director of Brand and Marketing for Peanuts Worldwide, to spotlight an exciting partnership between Peanuts Worldwide, the City of Needles, and local nonprofit Foundation for Hospital Art. The collaboration includes a community PaintFest on August 12 at the Colorado River Medical Center, where residents will help create two large-scale murals.
One features the classic Peanuts gang, and the other highlights Spike— Snoopy’s desert-dwelling brother inspired by Charles Schulz’s time living in Needles. During the segment, Mayor Jernigan also highlighted the City’s broader tourism and community engagement efforts, including preparations for the Route 66 Centennial in 2026, the continued success of the City’s awardwinning parks system, and Needles High School’s impressive 41 state championships. The discussion underscored Needles’ growing visibility through creative partnerships, historic pride, and local excellence.
Click here to listen to the full interview.
6. Aquatic Center Wrap-Up & Extended Morning Programs
The Needles Aquatic Center concluded its regular summer operations on August 1, 2025, after another successful season serving local families through swim lessons, open swim, youth camps, and private rentals. While the main pool season has ended, Morning Lap Swim and Exercise programs remain active through the first week of September, continuing to offer accessible, lowcost wellness opportunities for the community. Lap Swim is available Monday through Thursday from 6:30–8:00 AM, followed by Morning Exercise from 8:00–
9:15 AM. These early morning sessions remain popular with residents and reflect the City’s ongoing commitment to public health and active living. Staff will now begin seasonal maintenance and prepare for next year’s aquatic programming.
7. 2025 Summer Youth Programs Conclude with Strong Community Support The City of Needles successfully wrapped up its 2025 summer youth programs this week, providing community-supported activities for local families. The Summer Day Camp Program was offered at no cost thanks to generous support from The Legacy Foundation and River Daze with more than 150 participants.
Alongside basketball and swim programs, these efforts provided safe, structured environments for local youth throughout the summer. Special thanks go to all the volunteer coaches who generously donated their time and energy to support the Jr. and Pee Wee Basketball Program. Their involvement was critical to the program’s success and community impact. These programs reflect the City Council’s continued commitment to accessible, family-friendly services. Staff will now shift focus to upcoming fall and winter programming with taking signups now for Soccer, volleyball and Flag Football. For any questions or assistance, please get in touch with Jennifer Valenzuela at (760) 326-2814 or via email at [email protected].
8. Needles Showcased at Ontario International Airport
The City of Needles is now featured at Ontario International Airport (ONT) as part of the new “Discover Inland Empire” campaign—a regional initiative launched to promote Southern California’s most dynamic destinations.
Spearheaded by Visit Inland Empire in partnership with ONT, the campaign introduces millions of travelers to the diverse attractions across the region, with Needles proudly highlighted among them. Digital displays inside the terminal showcase Needles’ iconic imagery, including historic railcars and desert landscapes, helping position the city as a unique destination within the broader Inland Empire. This effort aligns with City Council’s strategic priorities to promote tourism, expand regional visibility, and attract economic activity. This exposure not only elevates Needles’ profile at one of the nation’s fastestgrowing airports, but also reinforces our standing as a welcoming and adventure-ready stop in Southern California. Photos attached show how our city is being featured in this high-traffic gateway.
9. Jack Smith Park Lift Station – Pump Replacement Complete The Wastewater Department, in coordination with EUSI, LLC, the City’s contracted provider for operational support services at the wastewater treatment facility, successfully completed repairs to the Jack Smith Park lift station this week. In May, both pumps at the site failed, requiring the procurement of two new Pentair Hydromatic grinder pumps. This week, crews pumped out the wet well and installed and tested both pumps. The lift station is now back to full operation. Staff logged motor hours, recorded amp readings, and documented the installation with photos of the equipment nameplates. This efficient and wellexecuted repair effort restored critical wastewater infrastructure serving the Jack Smith area. Refer to the attached images for a look at the repair.
10.Fall Spay & Neuter Clinic Scheduled for September 25–26 The Needles Animal Shelter will host its Fall Spay and Neuter Clinic on September 25th and 26th in partnership with Dr. Angelina Beeks of Angels Touch Mobile Vet. The event is by appointment only, and a non-refundable deposit is required. All are welcome to participate. To reserve a spot, residents must fill out an application and pay the deposit in person at the Needles Animal Shelter, located at 1662 Flip Mendez Parkway. This bi-annual clinic is in high demand and typically fills quickly, so early registration is encouraged. For more information or to schedule an appointment, residents can call the shelter at (760) 326-4952. This program continues to support public health, responsible pet ownership, and the City’s broader animal welfare goals. Refer to the attached fly for more information.
11.Youth Golf Camp Concludes with Community Support and Lasting Impact The 2025 Summer Youth Golf Camp at Rivers Edge Golf Course officially wrapped up this week, closing out a season of instruction, growth, and positive youth engagement. Operated in partnership with Touchstone Golf, the camp welcomed dozens of local youth and emphasized discipline, sportsmanship, and teamwork. A highlight of the final week was the annual Putting Contest hosted by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Colorado River Station, which included a generous $880 donation from their nonprofit River Daze to support this year’s program. We extend our sincere thanks to the Sheriff's Department for their continued presence and commitment to Needles youth—your support helped make this camp possible. Take a look at the attached photos for a glimpse of the event and the impact it had on our young participants.
12.Route 66 Channel 2 Now Live
As a quick update to the item from the manager’s report two weeks ago — Channel 2 on Route 66 Broadband is now live. Community programming has officially launched and includes event calendars, City Council meeting replays, public notices, and community flyers on a continuous loop. This tool directly supports Council’s public engagement goals by making timely City information more visible and accessible to residents. Appreciation again to Route 66 Broadband for helping make this happen.
13.Summer Reading Program Wraps Up with Family Entertainment The Needles Branch Library successfully concluded its 2025 Summer Reading Program, Tales of Enchantment, which promoted literacy and lifelong reading through interactive, educational activities for all ages. Throughout the summer, the library hosted a series of live performances, culminating this past Tuesday, July 29, 2025, with a featured appearance by Comic Master Ventriloquist Joe Gandelman. His high-energy, family-friendly show was a fitting end to a season of storytelling, imagination, and learning. These events directly support the City Council’s goals to foster youth engagement, literacy, and community enrichment. We thank the library team and community partners for their efforts in delivering a memorable summer experience. Photos and highlights from this week’s performance are attached.
14.Advancing Regional Collaboration
As part of the City Council’s continued commitment to strategic regional collaboration, City staff recently met with Bullhead City Manager Toby Cotter and his Development Services team to explore opportunities for strengthening the economic vitality of the tri-state region. The discussion centered on shared priorities including regional economic development, housing production, retail growth, and hospitality development. By aligning efforts and leveraging each city’s strengths, both Needles and Bullhead City aim to create a more resilient, prosperous, and interconnected region for residents, businesses, and future investment.
15.Community Events Calendar Now Live on City Website
As part of the City’s newly launched website, we’re excited to introduce a comprehensive Community Events Calendar designed to keep residents informed about the many activities and happenings across Needles. We invite local organizations and event organizers to collaborate with the City Clerk’s Office to add or update events—helping ensure the calendar remains vibrant, inclusive, and reflective of our community’s diverse offerings. To contribute or request modifications, please contact Candace Clark at
[email protected]. Your participation helps strengthen community spirit and enrich the local experience for residents and visitors alike.
1. JACK SMITH PARK FIRE RESPONSE
1. JACK SMITH PARK FIRE RESPONSE
1. SBSD PRESS RELEASE JSP FIRE
2. TRI-STATE NIGHT POOL PARTY
3. BACKPACK AND SCHOOL SUPPLY DRIVE
4. CITYWIDE BEAUTIFICATION
4. CITYWIDE BEAUTIFICATION
4. CITYWIDE BEAUTIFICATION
4. CITYWIDE BEAUTIFICATION
5. AQUATICS CENTER WRAP-UP
7. SUMMER CAMP WRAP-UP
8. ONTARIO AIRPORT FEATURE
9. JACK SMITH PARK LIFT STATION
10. FALL SPAY AND NEUTER CLINIC
11. GOLF SUMMER CAMP WRAP-UP
13. SUMMER LIBRARY PROGRAM WRAP-UP