Agenda packet — Needles City Council, July 14, 2026

AGENDA

REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL

NEEDLES PUBLIC UTILITY AUTHORITY

HOUSING AUTHORITY CITY OF NEEDLES

CITY OF NEEDLES, CALIFORNIA
COUNCIL CHAMBERS, 1111 BAILEY AVENUE.

TUESDAY, JULY 14, 2026
COUNCIL EXECUTIVE SESSION – 5:00 PM
CITY COUNCIL MEETING – 6:00 PM

THE PUBLIC MAY ATTEND VIA TEAMS AND MAY SUBMIT ANY COMMENTS IN WRITING PRIOR TO NOON ON THE DAY OF THE MEETING BY EMAILING [email protected] TO JOIN THE LIVE TEAMS MEETING: log into the City of Needles website at www.cityofneedles.com to access the agenda and Click here to join the meeting If asked, enter the following: Meeting ID: 202 746 159# OR listen in and participate by calling Teams: 1-323-488-2227 - Meeting ID: 202 746 159# The meetings are being recorded.

CALL TO ORDER

ROLL CALL

PUBLIC COMMENTS PERTAINING TO THE EXECUTIVE SESSION ITEMS A three-minute time limit per person has been established.

RECESS TO EXECUTIVE SESSION

EXECUTIVE SESSION
a. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS – Pursuant to Government Code Section 54957.6 Agency designated representatives: Mayor Janet Jernigan, Vice Mayor Ellen Campbell, Councilman Henry Longbrake Unrepresented Employee: City Clerk
b. PUBLIC EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE EVALUATION – Pursuant to Government Code Section 54957 Title: City Clerk

CALL TO ORDER

ROLL CALL
EXECUTIVE SESSION REPORT - by City Attorney

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

INVOCATION

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

CONFLICT OF INTEREST

CORRESPONDENCE

INTRODUCTIONS
CITY ATTORNEY – Parliamentary Procedures
As a courtesy to those in attendance, we would ask that cell phones be turned off or set in their silent mode. Thank you
PUBLIC APPEARANCE - Persons wishing to address the NPUA / City Council on subjects other than those scheduled are requested to do so at this time. When called by the Mayor, please announce your name and address for the record. In order to conduct a timely meeting, a three-minute time limit per person has been established by Municipal Code Section 2-18. Amendments to the California Government Code Section 54950 prohibits the City Council from taking action on a specific item until it appears on the agenda.

INTERVIEWS

1. Make appointments to the Parks and Recreation and Housing Commissions to fill the current vacancies.

NPUA / COUNCIL REGULAR ITEM

2. Authorize the Purchase of one (1) Pole/Reel/Dump Trailer from Brooks Brothers Trailers not to exceed $55,060, utilizing the Electric Asset Replacement Fund (ACT) COUNCIL CONSENT CALENDAR All matters listed on the Consent Calendar are considered to be routine and will be enacted by one motion in the form listed. The Mayor or any member of the City Council may pull an item from the Consent Calendar for discussion. Prior to Council action, a member of the public may address the City Council on matters scheduled on the Consent Calendar. A three-minute time limit per person applies. RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve Items 3 through 10 on the Consent Calendar by affirmative roll call vote. (ACT)

3. Approve the Warrants Register through July 14, 2026

4. Approve the Minutes of June 23, 2026

5. Accept and file the Treasurer's Report for the month of June, 2026

6. Resolution 2026-21 approving the Title VI Compliance Plan for the Needles Area Transit

7. Waive full reading and adopt Ordinance 682-AC (second read adopt)

8. FY 27 Update to the LAIF Authorized Persons List

9. Approve Amendment No. 4 to the Professional Services Agreement with TKE Engineering Inc. to Provide On-Call Supplemental Engineering Services

10. Approve the Eighth Amendment to the Professional Services Agreement for Building Support Services with Willdan extending the contract term for one year.

END OF COUNCIL CONSENT CALENDAR

REGULAR COUNCIL ITEMS

11. Authorize or deny the City Manager, or designee, to submit an application for the City of Needles Safe Truck Parking Area Project through the U.S. Department of Transportation's Fiscal Year 2026 Nationally Significant Multimodal Freight and Highway Projects (INFRA) Program, and to execute all documents necessary for the application process and, if awarded, the acceptance and administration of grant funds, subject to City Attorney approval as to form (ACT)

12. Reject all Bids for the Animal Control Restroom Addition Project Rebid; and Authorize Staff to Revise the Plans to Include the Purchase of a Modular or Prefabbed Building and Resolicit Bids for Installation of the Preferred Alternative (ACT)

13. Adopt Resolution 2026-27 Calling for the Placement of a Transient Occupancy Tax Measure on the Ballot at the General Municipal Election to Be Held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026 and for the Submission to the Qualified Voters of an Ordinance to Enact a Four Percentage Point Increase in Transient Occupancy Tax. (ACT)

14. Adopt Resolution of Necessity and Conduct First Reading of Ordinance 684-AC Ordering the Submission of a General Obligation Bond Measure to the Qualified Voters at the November 3, 2026 General Municipal Election (ACT)

15. Adopt Resolution 2026-29, a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Needles calling for the placement of a Charter Amendment Measure regarding City Council compensation on the ballot at the November 3, 2026 General Municipal Election for submission to the qualified voters. (ACT)

CITY ATTORNEY REPORT

CITY CLERK REPORT

CITY MANAGER REPORT
City Manager's Report for the weeks of June 26 and July 3, 2026

COUNCIL REQUESTS
Council Member Ford
Council Member McCorkle
Vice Mayor Campbell
Council Member Pogue
Council Member Belt
Council Member Longbrake
Mayor Jernigan

ADJOURNMENT

INTERNET ACCESS TO CITY COUNCIL AGENDAS AND STAFF REPORT MATERIAL IS AVAILABLE PRIOR TO CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS AT: http://www.cityofneedles.com
Posted: July 10, 2026
SB 343-DOCUMENTS RELATED TO OPEN SESSION AGENDAS -- Any public record, relating to an open session agenda item, that is distributed within 72 hours prior to the meeting is available for public inspection at the City Clerk’s Office, 817 Third Street, Needles, CA 92363.

In compliance with the American with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact the City Clerk’s Office at (760) 326-2113 ext 133. Notification 48 hours prior to the meeting will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting (28 CFR 35.102-104 ADA Title II).

I hereby certify, under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the foregoing Agenda was posted at the front entrance of City Hall not less than 72 hours prior to the meeting.

Dated this 10th day of July 2026
/s/        Candace Clark, CPMC, CMC, City Clerk
City of Needles, California
Request for City Council Action
CITY COUNCIL NPUA Regular Special
Meeting Date: July 14, 2026
Title: Interviews / appointments to fill one vacancy each on Parks and Recreation Commission and Housing Commission.

Background: The following vacancies were posted and published on the Needles Connect App.

Parks and Recreation Commission: There is one vacancy, with a term to expire December 31, 2028. The Commission meets on the third Monday of each month at 4:00 p.m.

One application received
Housing Commission: There is one vacancy with a term to expire December 31, 2026. The Commission meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month at 4:00 pm.

One application received
Recommendation: Make appointments to the Parks and Recreation and Housing Commissions to fill the current vacancies.

Submitted By: Candace Clark, City Clerk
City Management Review: Date:

Other Department (when necessary): Date:
7/8/2026
Agenda Item 1.

Agenda Item 1.

CITY OF NEEDLES
City Clerk's Office
817 Third Street
Needles, Ca 92363
[email protected]

BOARD / COMMISSION AND/OR COMMITTEE APPLICATION

Applicant Name: Dr. Mary McNeil
Address:

Daytime Phone Number:

Home Phone Number: NA Email
Position(s) applied for: Commissioner for Parks and Recreation Commission Special comments and/or interests: My interest in serving on the Parks and Recreation Commission comes from both a personal connection to the community and a strong commitment to its continued growth and quality of life. I am proud to call Needles my home and believe that parks, recreational facilities, and community activities play an important role in creating a community where people want to live, work, play, and raise their families.

As a grandparent, I regularly spend time with my family enjoying the many recreational opportunities available in Needles. The pump track, splash pad, dog park, Bob Belt Park, and other community spaces provide places where children can play, families can spend meaningful time together, and residents can connect with one another.

Seeing my grandchildren enjoy these facilities has strengthened my appreciation for the importance of investing in safe, welcoming, and engaging public spaces. These high-quality facilities also create a sense of community pride and demonstrate what can be accomplished when residents, City leaders, staff, and community organizations work together.

I am particularly interested in supporting future beautification and community enhancement efforts throughout Needles. Our community has unique natural assets, including the beauty of the surrounding desert and the Colorado River, that provide opportunities to further strengthen the identity and appeal of our community. I would like to contribute to efforts that preserve and highlight these natural qualities while supporting new ideas for parks, recreation, beautification, and family-centered activities.

I also believe it is important to build upon and promote the many high-quality opportunities that already exist in Needles. Community improvement is not only about creating something new; it is also about maintaining successful programs and facilities, recognizing existing assets, and ensuring that residents and visitors are aware of the opportunities available to them. I am interested in helping continue and expand opportunities for families to gather, participate in activities, enjoy community events, and develop an even stronger connection to Needles.

I choose to live and remain actively involved in Needles because I am extremely proud to be part of a caring, growing, and vibrant community. Serving on the Parks and Recreation Commission would provide me with an opportunity to contribute to the continued improvement of the community I value. I would welcome the opportunity to listen to residents, collaborate with City staff and fellow commissioners, support thoughtful planning, and help ensure that Needles continues to provide beautiful, welcoming, and engaging spaces where people of all ages can gather, connect, play, and thrive. Agenda Item 1.

Background and Qualifications: My professional leadership experience and long-standing community involvement have provided me with skills and perspectives that would support my service on the Parks and Recreation Commission. As the former superintendent of Needles Unified School District, I was responsible for leading a public organization, managing resources, improving facilities and grounds, collaborating with multiple stakeholders, and making decisions focused on improving the quality of life and opportunities available to students, families, and the broader community.

During my service as superintendent, I worked collaboratively with City staff, coaches, school personnel, and community partners to improve local athletic fields and facilities that support both school and community sports programs. This work required collaboration, long-term planning, problem solving, resource management, and an understanding of the importance of maintaining public facilities so they remain safe, attractive, functional, and sustainable. My experience overseeing the development, improvement, maintenance, and long-term sustainability of school grounds and facilities has given me practical experience that directly supports the responsibilities of a Parks and Recreation Commissioner.

Throughout my career, I have worked with diverse groups of people to identify needs, establish priorities, develop partnerships, and turn ideas into sustainable programs and improvements. As a leader, I understand the importance of listening to stakeholders, reviewing information, considering available resources, building consensus, and maintaining a long-term vision while addressing immediate community needs. I also understand that successful projects require more than a good idea; they require careful planning, collaboration, responsible use of resources, ongoing maintenance, and community support.

My experience also extends to my active involvement in local community organizations and events. Through this involvement, I have gained additional experience working with the City, local organizations, volunteers, and community partners to provide activities and events that bring residents together. My involvement with community activities has strengthened my understanding of the importance of creating opportunities that encourage participation, build relationships, and showcase the many positive experiences available in Needles.

I bring experience in leadership, public service, strategic planning, facilities improvement, budgeting, partnership development, community engagement, and collaborative decision-making. Equally important, I bring a genuine commitment to Needles and an understanding of the community developed through years of professional service, civic involvement, and personal investment. I believe this combination of experience and commitment would allow me to make a meaningful contribution to the Parks and Recreation Commission and support its work to enhance recreational opportunities, strengthen public spaces, encourage family engagement, and improve the overall quality of life for the greater community of Needles.

Signature Dr. Mary McNeil
(Please return to the above address)
Date 07/08/2026
You must be a registered voter in the City of Needles to qualify for appointment.

Agenda Item 1.

City of Needles, California
Request for City Council Action
CITY COUNCIL NPUA HACN Regular Special
Meeting Date: July 14, 2026
Title: Authorize the Purchase of one (1) Pole/Reel/Dump Trailer from Brooks Brothers Trailers not to exceed $55,060, utilizing the Electric Asset Replacement Fund Background: The City of Needles Electric Department is requesting funding to purchase a new combination wire and pole trailer and a new dump trailer to support emergency response and routine utility maintenance operations. The department currently relies on separate wire and pole trailers that were purchased in the early 1970s. Both trailers have exceeded their useful life, are in poor condition, and are becoming increasingly unreliable and costly to maintain.

During emergency situations, the existing equipment requires two separate vehicles and additional staff to transport utility poles and wire reels to repair sites. This process is inefficient and delays response times during power outages and other critical incidents. The proposed combination trailer will allow utility poles and wire reels to be transported simultaneously, reducing the number of vehicles and personnel needed while significantly improving operational efficiency and emergency response capabilities.

The new trailers are specifically designed for utility operations and will streamline the transportation of materials to job sites, reducing setup time and allowing crews to focus on completing repairs more effectively.

Additionally, the trailers include enhanced safety features such as self-locking winches and stabilizing jacks, which improve safety during loading, unloading, and transport. These features minimize the risk of accidents and ensure that materials are securely handled and transported.

The purchase of this equipment will improve the reliability, efficiency, and safety of the City of Needles Electric Department's operations and will enhance the department's ability to respond quickly to emergencies and maintain critical electrical infrastructure for the community.

The Board of Public Utilities approved the recommended action on July 7, 2026.

Fiscal Impact: The total cost, including freight and shipping, is $51,100; sales tax of 7.75% is $3,960.25 for a total price of $55,060 to be funded by the Electric Asset Replacement Fund, which has a balance of aproximately $3M. The vehicle registration for the trailer will be funded by the adopted FY2027 electric O&M budget.

Environmental Impact: None
Recommended Action: Authorize the Purchase of one (1) Pole/Reel/Dump Trailer from Brooks Brothers Trailers not to exceed $55,060, utilizing the Electric Asset Replacement Fund Submitted By: Justin Scott, Linecrew Supervisor
City Manager Approval: Date:

Other Department Approval (when required): Date:
7/8/2026
07/08/26
Agenda Item 2.

Agenda Item 2.

Agenda Item 3.

Agenda Item 3.
7/8/2026
Agenda Item 3.

Agenda Item 3.

MINUTES

REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL

NEEDLES PUBLIC UTILITY AUTHORITY HOUSING

AUTHORITY CITY OF NEEDLES CITY OF

NEEDLES, CALIFORNIA
COUNCIL CHAMBERS, 1111 BAILEY AVENUE
TUESDAY, JUNE 23, 2026 - COUNCIL EXECUTIVE SESSION – 5:00 PM - CITY COUNCIL MEETING – 6:00 PM CALL TO ORDER – Mayor Jernigan called the meeting to order at 5:00 PM

ROLL CALL

PRESENT
Council Member Larry Ford
Council Member Jamie McCorkle
Vice Mayor Ellen Campbell - arrived at 5:02 PM
Mayor Janet Jernigan
Council Member Tona Belt
Council Member Henry Longbrake
Council Member JoAnne Pogue
PUBLIC COMMENTS PERTAINING TO THE EXECUTIVE SESSION - None RECESSED TO EXECUTIVE SESSION - 5:01 pm

EXECUTIVE SESSION
a. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATORS – Pursuant to Government Code section 54956.8 Property within Final Tract Map Rustic Acres #5 Negotiator: Patrick Martinez, City Manager or designee Negotiating Parties: Lane Stromberg; Under Negotiation: Price and terms of payment No reportable action
b. Conference with labor negotiators pursuant to government code section 54957.6. Agency designated representatives: Mayor Janet Jernigan, Vice Mayor Ellen Campbell, and Council Member Henry Longbrake.

Unrepresented Employee: City Clerk
No reportable action
c. Conference with labor negotiators pursuant to government code section 54957.6. Agency designated representatives: Mayor Janet Jernigan, Vice Mayor Ellen Campbell, and Council Member Henry Longbrake.

Unrepresented Employee: City Manager
This item was removed and no action or discussion took place on this matter CALL TO ORDER – Mayor Jernigan called the meeting to order at 6:02 pm ROLL CALL – All present as noted above
EXECUTIVE SESSION REPORT – given by Deputy City Attorney Lena Wade as noted above PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE - led by Mayor Jernigan
INVOCATION - given by Vice Mayor Campbell

APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Vice Mayor Campbell made a motion, seconded by Council Member Ford, to approve the agenda.

Motion carried by the following roll call vote:

Ayes: Ford, McCorkle, Campbell, Pogue Belt, Longbrake
Noes: None

Absent: None
Abstain: None
CONFLICT OF INTEREST – None
CORRESPONDENCE – None
Agenda Item 4.

INTRODUCTIONS – Mayor Jernigan acknowledged former Council Member Tim Terral in attendance.

CITY ATTORNEY – PARLIAMENTARY PROCEDURES given by Deputy City Attorney Lena Wade

PUBLIC APPEARANCE
Jared Johnston announce the upcoming Eagles free kids swimming event at the Recreation Center Wayne Colburn announced that River Communities Coalition will be hosting a rummage sale July 31 – August 1 Tim Terral, representing the Chamber of Commerce, announced the fireworks stand and passed out flyers Nancy Greenwood complained about the lack of signage in Needles

PRESENTATION

1. Dr. Mary McNeil gave an update on the Needles Chamber of Commerce Business Directory Sign Program

PUBLIC HEARING

2. City of Needles, Needles Public Utility Authority (NPUA), & Housing Authority of the City of Needles (HACN) Public Hearing on the Proposed Budgets for Fiscal Year 2026-2027; and, approval of Resolutions 2026-23, 06- 23-2026-NPUA, and 2026-15-HACN adopting the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Annual Operating and Capital Budgets
City Manager Martinez gave staff report
Council had no questions
Mayor Jernigan opened public comment at 6:15 pm
No Public Comment
Mayor Jernigan closed public comment at 6:15 pm
Vice Mayor Campbell made a motion, seconded by Council Member McCorkle, to adopt City of Needles, Needles Public Utility Authority (NPUA), & Housing Authority of the City of Needles (HACN) Resolutions 2026-23, 06-23-2026- NPUA, and 2026-15-HACN adopting the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Annual Operating and Capital Budgets.

Motion carried by the following roll call vote:

Ayes: Ford, McCorkle, Campbell, Pogue, Belt, Longbrake
Noes: None

Absent: None
Abstain: None

3. Adopt Resolution 2026-25 calling for the holding of a General Municipal Election to be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, for the election of certain officers as required by the provisions of the Charter and requesting the Board of Supervisors of the County of San Bernardino to consolidate a General Municipal Election, with the Statewide General Election to be held on that date pursuant to §10403 of the Elections Code City Manager Martinez gave staff report
Council had no questions
Mayor Jernigan opened public comment at 6:17 pm
No Public Comment
Mayor Jernigan closed public comment at 6:17 pm
Vice Mayor Campbell made a motion, seconded by Council Member Ford, to Adopt Resolution 2026-25 calling for the holding of a General Municipal Election to be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, for the election of certain officers as required by the provisions of the Charter and requesting the Board of Supervisors of the County of San Bernardino to consolidate a General Municipal Election, with the Statewide General Election to be held on that date pursuant to §10403 of the Elections Code
Motion carried by the following roll call vote:

Ayes: Ford, McCorkle, Campbell, Pogue, Belt, Longbrake
Noes: None

Absent: None
Abstain: None
COUNCIL CONSENT CALENDAR Agenda Item 4.

Council Member Longbrake pulled items 6 and 7
Council Member Pogue made a motion, seconded by Council Member Longbrake, to approve Consent Calendar items 4 through 5
Motion carried by the following roll call vote:

Ayes: Ford, McCorkle, Campbell, Pogue Belt, Longbrake
Noes: None

Absent: None
Abstain: None

4. Approved the Warrants Register through June 23, 2026

5. Approved the Minutes of June 9, 2026

PULLED ITEMS

6. Authorize the Mayor to execute a Letter of Support for River Communities Coalition's USDA Rural Business Development Grant application
City Manager Martinez gave staff report
Council had no questions
Mayor Jernigan opened public comment at 6:20 pm
No Public Comment
Mayor Jernigan closed public comment at 6:20 pm
Vice Mayor Campbell made a motion, seconded by Council Member Pogue, to Authorize the Mayor to execute a Letter of Support for River Communities Coalition's USDA Rural Business Development Grant application Motion carried by the following roll call vote:

Ayes: Ford, McCorkle, Campbell, Pogue, Belt, Longbrake
Noes: None

Absent: None
Abstain: None

7. Authorize the Mayor to Submit a Letter of Support for Assembly Bill 1821 Regarding Updates to the California Public Records Act
City Manager Martinez gave staff report
Council engaged in minimal discussion
Mayor Jernigan opened public comment at 6:22 pm
No Public Comment
Mayor Jernigan closed public comment at 6:22 pm
Vice Mayor Campbell made a motion, seconded by Council Member McCorkle, to Authorize the Mayor to Submit a Letter of Support for Assembly Bill 1821 Regarding Updates to the California Public Records Act Motion carried by the following roll call vote:

Ayes: Ford, McCorkle, Campbell, Pogue, Belt, Longbrake
Noes: None

Absent: None
Abstain: None

END OF COUNCIL CONSENT CALENDAR

REGULAR COUNCIL ITEMS

8. Receive and file the presentation from Urban Futures, Inc. regarding potential ballot measures and provide direction to staff regarding potential placement of measures on the November 3, 2026, General Municipal Election ballot
City Manager Martinez gave staff report and introduced Michael Busch of Urban Futures, who gave a presentation on the three possible ballot measures and the survey conducted.

Agenda Item 4.

Council asked questions and considerable discussion ensued Staff and Michael Busch responded to Council questions
Mayor Jernigan opened public comment at 6:46 pm
Wayne Colburn stated that all three should be on the ballot and the voters will prioritize and decide how to vote.

Mayor Jernigan closed public comment at 6:50 pm
Further Council deliberation ensued
Council requested staff bring all three measures back for consideration and approval at the next council meeting.

9. Accept Notice of Completion for work completed by Pyramid Building and Engineering, Inc. for the Water Main and Manifold Improvements project and authorize a Notice of Completion to be recorded with the San Bernardino County Recorder’s Office
City Manager Martinez gave staff report
Council had no questions
Mayor Jernigan opened public comment at 7:06 pm
No Public Comment
Mayor Jernigan closed public comment at 7:06 pm
Council Member Pogue made a motion, seconded by Vice Mayor Campbell, to Accept Notice of Completion for work completed by Pyramid Building and Engineering, Inc. for the Water Main and Manifold Improvements project and authorize a Notice of Completion to be recorded with the San Bernardino County Recorder’s Office Motion carried by the following roll call vote:

Ayes: Ford, McCorkle, Campbell, Pogue, Belt, Longbrake
Noes: None

Absent: None
Abstain: None

10. Adopt Resolution 2026-20 establishing the appropriations subject to the limit for Fiscal Year 2026-2027 City Manager Martinez gave staff report
Council had no questions
Mayor Jernigan opened public comment at 7:08 pm
No Public Comment
Mayor Jernigan closed public comment at 7:08 pm
Vice Mayor Campbell made a motion, seconded by Council Member Ford, to Adopt Resolution 2026-20 establishing the appropriations subject to the limit for Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Motion carried by the following roll call vote:

Ayes: Ford, McCorkle, Campbell, Pogue, Belt, Longbrake
Noes: None

Absent: None
Abstain: None

11. Adopt Resolution 2026-24, approving the City of Needles Annual Statement of Investment Policy and Rescinding Resolution 2025-31
City Manager Martinez gave staff report
Council had no questions
Mayor Jernigan opened public comment at 7:10 pm
No Public Comment
Mayor Jernigan closed public comment at 7:10 pm
Council Member McCorkle made a motion, seconded by Vice Mayor Campbell, to Adopt Resolution 2026-24, approving the City of Needles Annual Statement of Investment Policy and Rescinding Resolution 2025-31 Motion carried by the following roll call vote:

Ayes: Ford, McCorkle, Campbell, Pogue, Belt, Longbrake
Noes: None

Absent: None
Agenda Item 4.

Abstain: None

12. Ordinance 682-AC Amending Chapter 12 of the Needles Municipal Code regarding business license requirements for vendors participating in approved community events (First Read) City Manager Martinez gave staff report
Council had no questions
Mayor Jernigan opened public comment at 7:12 pm
No Public Comment
Mayor Jernigan closed public comment at 7:12 pm
Vice Mayor Campbell made a motion, seconded by Council Member Ford, to approve Ordinance 682-AC Amending Chapter 12 of the Needles Municipal Code regarding business license requirements for vendors participating in approved community events (First Read)
Motion carried by the following roll call vote:

Ayes: Ford, McCorkle, Campbell, Pogue, Belt, Longbrake
Noes: None

Absent: None
Abstain: None

13. Adopt Resolution 2026-26 Determining the Needles Off Highway Motor Vehicle (OHMV) Staging Area Project is Exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and Directing Staff to File a Notice of Exemption (NOE) with the State of California Office of Planning and Research, State Clearinghouse, and the San Bernardino County Clerk
City Manager Martinez gave staff report
Council asked minimal questions
Mayor Jernigan opened public comment at 7:15 pm
No Public Comment
Mayor Jernigan closed public comment at 7:15 pm
Council Member McCorkle made a motion, seconded by Council Member Pogue, to Adopt Resolution 2026-26 Determining the Needles Off Highway Motor Vehicle (OHMV) Staging Area Project is Exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and Directing Staff to File a Notice of Exemption (NOE) with the State of California Office of Planning and Research, State Clearinghouse, and the San Bernardino County Clerk Motion carried by the following roll call vote:

Ayes: Ford, McCorkle, Campbell, Pogue, Belt, Longbrake
Noes: None

Absent: None
Abstain: None
CITY ATTORNEY REPORT – given by Deputy City Attorney Lena Wade CITY CLERK REPORT – given by City Clerk Candace Clark
CITY MANAGER REPORT – given by City Manager Patrick Martinez

COUNCIL REQUESTS
Council Member Ford
• No Requests
Council Member McCorkle
• Requested feedback and ideas from public on Route 66 Centennial events, signs, and spoke about the Centennial Event day and encouraged people to come to Council meetings and that the meeting videos are online
Vice Mayor Campbell
• Requested staff look into banning Kratom in the City of Needles • Local resident was victim of boating accident, boater did not stop Agenda Item 4.
• Expressed condolences to Linda Hedrick and family for her recent surgery Council Member Pogue
• Asked about removing the stop sign at K and Front street, by underpass • Asked about encouraging Needles’ Businesses to advertise on billboards along I-40 Council Member Belt
• Thanked staff for trimming trees and keeping beaches clean • Reported J Street is getting potholes and requested staff look into getting those filled in Council Member Longbrake
• Agreed with Vice Mayor Campbell about banning Kratom
• Reported that Streetlights on Broadway and Coronado are still not working Mayor Jernigan
• Reported on her attendance at the Desert Mountain Division meeting in Barstow • Congratulated Barstow on the intermodal system
• Wagon Wheel sponsored 500 Needles brochures, getting another 500 • Museum had 151 visitors the previous weekend
• Will be attending the upcoming tourism summit
ADJOURNMENT – Mayor Jernigan adjourned the meeting at 7:42 PM Agenda Item 4.

City of Needles, California
Request for City Council Action
CITY COUNCIL NPUA HACN Regular Special
Meeting Date: July 14, 2026
Title: June 2026 Treasurer’s Report
Background: Pursuant to California Government Code Section 53607, the City Treasurer is required to make a monthly report of the investment portfolio to the legislative body. The City’s investment portfolio conforms to the City’s Investment Policy in all respects. The City Treasurer certifies that the City has sufficient funds to meet its expenditure obligations during the next six months.

Attached is the June 2026 Treasurer’s Report that contains information on the cash and investments held in the portfolio by the City of Needles, Needles Public Utility Authority, and Housing Authority of the City of Needles. In June, no additional investments were made into LAIF. At month-end, the combined LAIF balance for the City, NPUA and Housing Authority was $21,941,985 with a rate of 3.81%.

Major factor affecting the LAIF interest rate, Federal Open Market Committee (the “Fed”) lowers or increases the Fed Funds rate to keep the national economy in balance. The Board has maintained the Fed Funds Rate at a range of 3.50-3.75 percent. The Fed is in a difficult position of balancing inflation and lowering interest rates to spur the labor market, which could cause inflation to spike.

The Treasurer’s Report shows the cash held by fiscal agents related to the All-American Canal Trust Fund and the NPUA 2016 Refunding Revenue Bonds. The All-American Canal Trust Fund was created by the US Bureau of Reclamation, the City of Needles and the Metropolitan Water District (MWD) for the maintenance, capital and operation of the All-American Canal. In exchange, Needles received a local water allotment from the Colorado River since it has no formal water rights. The canal is owned by the US Bureau of Reclamation and operated and maintained by NPUA. The trust funds, managed by the NPUA in its fiduciary capacity, are held at Zions Bank as the third-party trustee, for canal capital and maintenance. The market value of the funds held at Zion Bank on June 30th was $12,038,508.

US Bank acts as the trustee for the NPUA 2016 Revenue Refunding Bonds. These various bond accounts are used simply to receive scheduled bond payments from the NPUA, and then the payments to bondholders are initiated by US Bank. The total residual cash held by US Bank remained this month at $190, the next semi-annual debt service payments are not due again until August 2026.

Fiscal Impact: LAIF interest is paid quarterly. Interest on LAIF balances for the month of June was $68,711, compared to $72,139 accrued in May. Interest earned on the balance in the Arrowhead Credit Union money market account, which holds a portion of the City’s Vehicle Replacement Funds, was $28.

Environmental Impact: None.

Recommended Action: Accept and file the June 2026 Treasurer’s Report.

Submitted By: Mark C. DeMay, Director of Finance and Administrative Services City Manager Approval: Date:

Other Department Approval (when required): Date:
7/8/2026
Agenda Item 5.

Agenda Item 5.

City of Needles, California
Request for City Council Action
C:\Users\Patrick Martinez\Desktop\Staff Reports\7-14-2026\council cover sheet - Title VI Plan (July '26).docx/cks CITY COUNCIL NPUA HACN Regular Special
Meeting Date: July 14, 2026
Title: Resolution No. 2026-21 approving the Title VI Compliance Plan for the Needles Area Transit
Background: As part of the Section 5311 funding for the Needles Area Transit (NAT), the City is required to comply with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, including provisions detailed in U.S. Department of Transportation’s FTA Circular 4702.1B, “Title VI Requirement and Guidelines for Federal Transit Administration Recipients.” The initial Title VI Plan was approved in June 2014 and is required to be updated every three years (updates approved in July 2017, September 2020 and September 2023). This Title VI Compliance Plan update has been prepared by AMMA Transit Planning through funding provided by the San Bernardino County Transportation Authority (SBCTA) on behalf of the City of Needles.

Fiscal Impact: Minimal, if any, cost to accommodate and provide language assistance to limited English proficient (LEP) individuals but any costs would be covered in the NAT budget. No general fund expense.

Environmental Impact: N/A
Recommended Action: Waive the reading and adopt Resolution No. 2026-21 approving the Title VI Compliance Plan for the Needles Aera Transit.

Submitted By: Cheryl Sallis, Community Services Manager City Manager Approval: Date:

Other Department Approval (when required): Date:
7/8/2026
07/08/26
Agenda Item 6.

RESOLUTION 2026-21

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NEEDLES, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING

THE TITLE VI COMPLIANCE PLAN FOR THE NEEDLES AREA TRANSIT WHEREAS, the City of Needles/Needles Area Transit (NAT) desires to comply with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, including provisions detailed in U.S. Department of Transportation’s FTA Circular 4702.1B, “Title VI Requirements and Guidelines for Federal Transit Administration Recipients”; and WHEREAS, the City Council wishes to authorize approval of the Compliance Plan developed and prepared by the consulting firm AMMA Transit Planning, including applicable Updates, to comply with necessary provisions of the Civil Rights Act.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Needles, California, as follows:

1. The Community Services Manager is authorized to implement components of the Plan in order to meet federal requirements.

2. The Community Services Manager is authorized to implement policies that may be necessary to comply with subsequent revisions or interpretations to the Civil Rights Act.

PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Needles, California, held on the 14th day of July 2026, by the following roll call vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:

Janet Jernigan, Mayor
ATTEST:

Candace Clark, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:

City Attorney
Agenda Item 6.

Agenda Item 6.

ORDINANCE 682-AC

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NEEDLES, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CHAPTER 12 OF THE NEEDLES MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING BUSINESS

LICENSE REQUIREMENTS FOR VENDORS PARTICIPATING IN

APPROVED COMMUNITY EVENTS
WHEREAS, the City of Needles ("City") regulates businesses operating within the City through the business licensing provisions contained in Chapter 12 of the Needles Municipal Code; and WHEREAS, the City regularly hosts and permits community events including festivals, fairs, swap meets, farmers markets, Route 66 events, nonprofit events, and similar temporary gatherings involving vendors and public attendance; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has reviewed business licensing requirements applicable to vendors participating in such events and desires to encourage participation in community events while maintaining appropriate public health, safety, and welfare protections; and WHEREAS, the City seeks to amend certain provisions of Chapter 12 to clarify the regulation of special events and vendors participating in such events; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to waive certain City administrative processing fees for qualifying vendors participating in approved community events while maintaining applicable City licensing and regulatory requirements.

NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Needles does ordain as follows:

SECTION 1. Incorporation of Recitals. The recitals reflected above are true and correct and are incorporated by this reference herein as the cause and foundation for the action taken by and through this Ordinance.

SECTION 2. Amendment of Chapter 12. Chapter 12 of the Needles Municipal Code is amended as set forth in Exhibit “A,” attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference.

SECTION 3. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall become effective thirty (30) days after its adoption by the City Council as provided by law.

SECTION 4. Severability. If any section or provision of this Ordinance is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by any court of competent jurisdiction, or contravened by reason of any preemptive legislation, the remaining sections and provisions of this Ordinance shall remain valid. The City Council hereby declares that it would have adopted this Ordinance, and each section and provision thereof, regardless of the fact that any one or more sections or provisions may be declared invalid, unconstitutional, or preempted.

SECTION 5. Certification. The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this Ordinance and shall cause the same to be published and posted as required by law.

Agenda Item 7.

INTRODUCED AND READ for the first time and ordered posted at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Needles, California, held on the 23rd day of June 2026, by the following roll call vote:
___________________________
Janet Jernigan, Mayor
ATTEST: ___________________________
Candace Clark, City Clerk
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Needles, California, held on the 14th day of July 2026, by the following roll call vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:
___________________________
Janet Jernigan, Mayor
ATTEST: ___________________________
Candace Clark, City Clerk
Approved as to form: ___________________________
City Attorney
Agenda Item 7.

EXHIBIT “A”
Amendment of Needles Municipal Code
CHAPTER 12 LICENSES
Section 12-1 is amended to add the following definitions:
12-1 Definitions:
"Approved Community Event" means a festival, fair, farmers market, swap meet, Route 66 event, nonprofit event, community celebration, or similar event conducted pursuant to a permit, authorization, or approval issued by the City.
"Vendor" means any person or business selling, displaying, offering for sale, or providing goods, merchandise, food, beverages, services, or other products at an Approved Community Event.

Section 12-5 is amended to add a new subsection (10) to read as follows:
12-5 Same-Exceptions:
(g) Waiver of Processing Fees for Vendors and Peddlers Participating in Approved Community Events.
(1) For the purpose of promoting local entrepreneurship, home-based businesses, and small business development within the City of Needles, any Vendor with annual gross receipts of Fifteen Thousand Dollars ($15,000.00) or less shall be exempt from payment of the City's administrative processing fee otherwise required under this Chapter.
(2) Vendors claiming this exemption shall remain subject to all applicable provisions of this Code and shall obtain all permits, licenses, registrations, and approvals otherwise required by federal, state, county, and local law.
(3) The exemption provided herein shall apply only to City-imposed business administrative processing fees and shall not apply to any state-mandated fee, regulatory fee, permit fee, inspection fee, or other charge that the City is required by law to collect. (4) If the City determines that an applicant has knowingly provided false information regarding eligibility for this exemption, the applicant shall immediately become liable for all unpaid fees and any penalties otherwise authorized by this Code.
(5) Nothing in this subsection shall exempt any person from obtaining a business license as required by this Chapter.
(h) Nothing in this section shall exempt any person from complying with any of the regulations, measures or provisions of this chapter, except the payment of license fees; and any license exempt of fee under the provisions of this chapter is nontransferable. (i) The provisions of this chapter shall not be deemed or construed to require the payment of a license fee by any person carrying on, or engaging in, the renting or letting of three or less residential units, to serve as a primary residence for a period in excess of thirty days, for purposes of dwelling, sleeping or lodging (i.e., apartments, boarding houses and other residential property rentals). (Ord. 215 N.S.; Ord. 32-AC; Ord. 440-AC; Ord. 555-AC.)
Section 12-29, formerly deleted by Ordinance No 88-AC is now replaced with 12-29 Temporary Event Vendor License:

Section 12-29 is amended to read as follows:
12-29 Temporary Event Vendor License. This section regulates individual vendors participating in temporary events. Nothing in this section shall eliminate or replace any permit, license, approval, or authorization otherwise required for the operation of an event, festival, carnival, circus, concert, exhibition, or other activity regulated by Sections 12-30 through 12-37 of this Chapter. The Temporary Agenda Item 7.

Event Vendor License applies only to individual vendors participating in such events and shall not authorize the organization, promotion, or operation of the event itself. (a) License Required. Any person selling, offering for sale, displaying, or providing goods, merchandise, food, beverages, crafts, services, or other products at a temporary event within the City shall obtain a Temporary Event Vendor License.
(b) Temporary Event Defined. For purposes of this section, a Temporary Event shall include any festival, fair, farmers market, swap meet, Route 66 event, nonprofit event, community celebration, or similar gathering conducted for a limited duration within the City. (c) Duration. The license shall be valid only for the event, location, and dates specified in the application and shall automatically expire upon conclusion of the event. (d) A person holding a current and valid City business license shall not be required to obtain a Temporary Event Vendor License for activities otherwise authorized under that business license. (e) Issuance of a Temporary Event Vendor License shall not exempt any person from obtaining any permit, registration, certification, or approval otherwise required by federal, state, county, or local law.

Section 12-32 is amended to read as follows:

Section 12-32 Same—Concerts, Lectures, Theatricals, Etc.

For every person engaging in, conducting, managing or carrying on any place of amusement, entertainment or exhibition for the purpose of holding lectures, concerts, theatricals or any other form of entertainment or exhibition, except outdoor festivals as hereafter defined in section 12-35, for profit, and not otherwise paying a license under another provision of this Chapter, the amusement license fee shall be ten dollars ($10.00) per day.

Processing fees shall not apply to Vendors at Approved Community Events that are exempt pursuant to Section 12-5(g).

Section 12-56 is amended to read as follows:

Section 12-56 Food Catering Service:

For every person engaged in, managing, conducting, or carrying on the business of a food catering service, the license fee shall be thirty dollars ($30.00) per year or fraction thereof, provided it is not part of a regularly established business licensed under another section of this Code.

A Vendor participating in an Approved Community Event pursuant to Section 12-5(g) shall not be required to obtain a separate City food catering license solely for activities conducted within the Approved Community Event.

Section 12-68 is amended to add the following paragraph:

Section 12-68 Businesses and Professions Generally
For every person engaging in, managing, operating or carrying on the business of selling any goods, wares or merchandise, or conducting or carrying on any trade, occupation, calling or business, not otherwise specifically licensed by other sections of this chapter, the gross annual receipts of which are as follows, the respective license fees shall be as follows:

Less than $15,000 $30.00 per year
$15,000 and less than $30,000 $35.00 per year
$30,000 and less than $45,000 $50.00 per year
$45,000 and less than $60,000 $60.00 per year
Agenda Item 7.
$60,000 and less than $75,000 $70.00 per year
$75,000 and less than $90,000 $85.00 per year
$90,000 and less than $105,000 $105.00 per year
$105,000 and less than $120,000 $120.00 per year
$120,000 and less than $150,000 $140.00 per year
$150,000 and less than $225,000 $165.00 per year
$225,000 and less than $300,000 $195.00 per year
$300,000 and less than $375,000 $230.00 per year
$375,000 and less than $450,000 $280.00 per year
$450,000 and less than $600,000 $340.00 per year
$600,000 and less than $750,000 $450.00 per year
$750,000 and over $500.00 per year
Notwithstanding any other provision of this Chapter, a business participating in an Approved Community Event, as defined in Section 12-1, and qualifying for the exemption set forth in Section 12-5(g) shall not be required to pay the administrative processing fee but shall remain responsible for any state, federal, county, or locally mandated fee required by law.

Agenda Item 7.

City of Needles, California
Request for City Council Action
CITY COUNCIL NPUA HACN Regular Special
Meeting Date: July 14, 2026
Title: Approval of Joint Resolution Nos. 2026-28, 7-14-2026-NPUA, and 2026-16-HACN Updating the Local Agency Investment Fund (LAIF) Authorized Persons List
Background: The City of Needles, Needles Public Utility Authority (NPUA), and the Housing Authority of the City of Needles (HACN) maintain accounts with the State of California Local Agency Investment Fund (LAIF).

LAIF requires participating agencies to maintain a current list of authorized persons who may conduct transactions on behalf of the agency.

The City Council previously adopted Resolution No. 2026-19, the NPUA Board adopted Resolution No. 6-9-2026-NPUA, and the HACN Board adopted Resolution No. 2026-14-HACN, each authorizing designated officers and their successors in office to conduct transactions with LAIF. The proposed joint resolution modifies these authorizations to rename the officers and their successors in office. It updates the list of individuals currently serving in the authorized offices to ensure LAIF records accurately reflect current personnel. It also adds the City Treasurer’s designee on the list of names, thus reflecting the City’s adopted Investment Policy.

The proposed resolution approves the FY 2026-27 LAIF Authorized Persons List attached as Exhibit A and supersedes any previously submitted authorized persons lists for administrative purposes.

Fiscal Impact: None.

Environmental Impact: None.

Recommended Action: Adopt Joint Resolution Nos. 2026-28, 7-14-2026-NPUA, and 2026- 16-HACN approving the FY 2026-27 LAIF Authorized Persons List.

Submitted By: Mark C. DeMay, Director of Finance and Administrative Services City Manager Approval: Date:

Other Department Approval (when required): Date:
7/9/2026
Agenda Item 8.

RESOLUTION NO. 2026-28
RESOLUTION NO.7-14-2026-NPUA
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-16-HACN

A JOINT RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NEEDLES,

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE NEEDLES PUBLIC UTILITY AUTHORITY, AND

THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF NEEDLES

APPROVING AN UPDATED LIST OF AUTHORIZED PERSONS LIST FOR THE

LOCAL AGENCY INVESTMENT FUND (LAIF)
WHEREAS, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 2026-19 authorizing designated officers and their successors in office to conduct transactions with the Local Agency Investment Fund (LAIF); and WHEREAS, the Needles Public Utility Authority adopted Resolution No. 6-9-2026-NPUA authorizing designated officers and their successorsin office to conduct transactions with LAIF; and WHEREAS, the Housing Authority of the City of Needles adopted Resolution No. 2026-14-HACN authorizing designated officers and theirsuccessors in office to conduct transactions with LAIF; and WHEREAS, the governing bodies desire to update the list of individuals currently serving in the authorized positions identified in the foregoing resolutions to ensure LAIF records accurately reflect current personnel.

WHEREAS, the governing bodies desire to update the list of individuals to include the City Treasurer’s named designee and successively designated persons, as per the City Investment Policy revised and adopted June 23, 2026 with an effective date of July 1st , 2026.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Needles, the Board of Directors of the Needles Public Utility Authority, and the Board of Commissioners of the Housing Authority of the City of Needles hereby approve the Authorized Representatives List attached hereto as Exhibit A and incorporated herein by this reference.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Authorized Representatives List attached as Exhibit A supersedes any previously submitted authorized representative lists for purposes of LAIF account administration.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that all prior resolutions authorizing designated officers and their successors in office to conduct transactions with LAIF shall be replaced with this joint resolution.

PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED this 14th day of July 2026 by the following roll call vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:

Janet Jernigan, Mayor
ATTEST:

Candace Clark, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:

City Attorney
Agenda Item 8.

Exhibit A
FY 2026-27 LAIF AUTHORIZED PERSONS LIST
City of Needles:

Virginia Tasker City Treasurer
Mark DeMay Finance Director
Patrick Martinez City Manager
Needles Public Utilities Authority:

Virginia Tasker City Treasurer
Mark DeMay Finance Director
Patrick Martinez City Manager
Housing Authority of the City of Needles:

Virginia Tasker City Treasurer
Mark DeMay Finance Director
Patrick Martinez City Manager
Agenda Item 8.

City of Needles, California
Request for City Council Action
CITY COUNCIL NPUA Regular Special
Meeting Date: July 14, 2026
Title: Approve Amendment No. 4 to the Professional Services Agreement with TKE Engineering, Inc. to Provide On-Call Supplemental Support Engineering Services Background: The City accepted a proposal from TKE Engineering, Inc. on May 25, 2021, for On-Call Supplemental Engineering Consulting Support Services for a term of oneyear with the option of an extension. On August 8, 2023, Amendment No. 1 was approved to extend the term of the contract until August 8, 2024; on October 8, 2024, Amendment No. 2 was approved to extend the term of the contract to August 8, 2025; and, on August 12, 2025, Amendment No. 3 was approved to extend the term of the contract to August 8, 2026.

The City and TKE wish to amend the Agreement to extend the term to August 8, 2027; and, incorporate the rates set forth in Exhibit A.

The Amendment will allow TKE to continue On-Call City Engineer support and to provide design, bidding, and project management support for City Capital Improvement projects.

Fiscal Impact: The hourly rates as set forth in Exhibit A for an as-needed basis not to exceed $25,000. Funds budgeted in the FY27 Engineering Budget for Professional Engineering Services or specific Council approved projects by task order.

Recommendation: Approve Amendment No. 4 to the Professional Services Agreement with TKE Engineering Inc. to Provide On-Call Supplemental Engineering Services Submitted By: Kathy Raasch, Director of Development Services/Capital Projects City Manager Approval: Date:

Other Department Approval (when required): Date: 07/08/26 7/8/2026
Agenda Item 9.

Revised June 2026

RATE SCHEDULE
2026-2027
HOURLY
RATE
Principal in Charge.. .......... .......... .......... ...................... .......... .......... .......... $195.00 Project Manager/Construction Manager/Licensed Surveyor ..... .......... .......... $185.00 Traffic Engineer (TE).......... .......... .......... ...................... .......... .......... .......... $195.00 Senior Engineer/Project Engineer (PE)/Senior Plan Checker.... .......... .......... $175.00 Assistant Project Manager/Associate Engineer.............. .......... .......... .......... $165.00 Assistant Engineer/Plan Checker/Designer.................... .......... .......... .......... $155.00 AutoCAD Technician.......... .......... .......... ...................... .......... .......... .......... $145.00 Engineering Technician...... .......... .......... ...................... .......... .......... .......... $115.00 Clerical ........ .......... ......... .......... .......... ...................... .......... .......... .......... $100.00 Forensic Engineering ......... .......... .......... ...................... .......... .......... .......... $310.00 Expert Witness Testimony .......... .......... ...................... .......... .......... .......... $410.00

SURVEYING SERVICES
2-Man Survey Crew (Prevailing Wage).... ...................... .......... .......... .......... $275.00

DEVELOPMENT SERVICES
Managing Director... .......... .......... .......... ...................... .......... .......... .......... $195.00 Senior Project Manager ..... .......... .......... ...................... .......... .......... .......... $145.00 Project Manager...... .......... .......... .......... ...................... .......... .......... .......... $115.00

CONSTRUCTION SERVICES
Senior Construction Inspector (Prevailing Wage) ........... .......... .......... .......... $150.00 Construction Inspector (Prevailing Wage) ...................... .......... .......... .......... $140.00

REIMBURSABLE COSTS
In-house Reproduction ...... .......... .......... ...................... .......... .......... .......... Cost Printing and Materials ........ .......... .......... ...................... .......... .......... .......... Cost + 10% Express Mail/Courier/Next Day Service .. ...................... .......... .......... .......... Cost + 10% Special Subconsultant Services ... .......... ...................... .......... .......... .......... Cost + 10% Agenda Item 9.

Agenda Item 9.

City of Needles, California
Request for City Council Action
CITY COUNCIL NPUA Regular Special
Meeting Date: July 14, 2026
Title: Eighth Amendment to the Professional Services Agreement for Building Support Services with Willdan Engineering, Inc. extending the contract term for one year Background: Wildan Engineering, Inc. is currently providing Consultant Professional Services on a “as needed” basis to the City Development Services Department for Building Official services. Willdan fulfills the California State requirement to employ an International Code Council (ICC) Certified Building Official and assists the City Building Inspector by providing code interpretations and technical advice and approves plans and permits for new development.

The Building Department plays a crucial role in guiding our residents through construction regulations, ensuring adherence to minimum standards for the safety of life, health, and property as stipulated by the California Building Code.

Willdan has excelled in collaborating with our residents, offering expertise in code interpretation, and assisting developers in overcoming pre-construction challenges. Given the consistent building activity in the City of Needles, maintaining a smooth permitting process is essential. Hence, the City intends to continue engaging Willdan for Building Official Services until City staff is certified to fill this role.

Fiscal Impact: A rate of $125 per hour Not to Exceed (NTE) $15,000 from FY27 budget appropriation.

Recommendation: Approve the Eighth Amendment to the Professional Services Agreement for Building Support Services with Willdan extending the contract term for one year.

Submitted By: Kathy Raasch, Director of Development Services/Capital Projects City Manager Approval: Date:

Other Department Approval (when required): Date: 07/08/26 7/8/2026
Agenda Item 10.

EIGHTH AMENDMENT TO

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT CONSULTANT SERVICES
This EIGHTH AMENDMENT TO PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT (“Amendment”) is made and entered into as of July 14, 2026 (“Effective Date”), by and between the City of Needles, a California charter city hereinafter referred to as “City” and Willdan Engineering, a California corporation hereinafter referred to as “Consultant.” City and Consultant may be referred to individually as a “Party” and collectively as the “Parties.”

RECITALS
WHEREAS, the Parties entered into that certain Professional Services Agreement dated April 19, 2021 (“Agreement”); and
WHEREAS, Consultant agreed to provide Building Support Services for inspection to the City for a term of one (1) year with compensation not to exceed $60,000; and WHEREAS, the Parties entered into a First Amendment to Professional Services Agreement dated July 13, 2021, for Comprehensive Plan Review and Structural Plan Review; and WHEREAS, the Parties entered into a Second Amendment to Professional Services Agreement dated September 14, 2021, for Certified Building Official/Project Manager Services at an hourly rate of $165; and WHEREAS, the Parties entered into a Third Amendment to Professional Services Agreement dated April 26, 2022, for increasing the maximum contract amount; and
WHEREAS, the Parties entered into a Fourth Amendment to the Professional Services Agreement dated May 10, 2022, to add a Certified Building Official Services hourly rate of $125 and to increase the maximum contract amount; and
WHEREAS, the Parties entered into a Fifth Amendment to the Professional Services Agreement dated July 12, 2023, to increase the maximum contract amount; and
WHEREAS, the Parties entered into a Sixth Amendment to the Professional Services Agreement dated December 12, 2023, to increase the term of the Agreement; and WHEREAS, the Parties entered into a Seventh Amendment to the Professional Services Agreement dated August 12, 2025, to increase the term of the Agreement; and WHEREAS, the Parties desire to enter into this Eighth Amendment to Professional Services Agreement as of this Effective Date to increase the term of the Agreement by an additional year; and WHEREAS, City has satisfactorily compensated Consultant for Consultant’s Services performed for the previous term of the Agreement; and
WHERAS, Section 3.6.4 of the Agreement states that the Agreement may only be modified by a writing signed by both Parties; and
Agenda Item 10.

WHERAS, Section 3.6.11 of the Agreement states that no supplement, modification, or amendment of the Agreement shall be binding unless executed in writing and signed by both Parties.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing Recitals and the mutual covenants contained herein, and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, City and Consultant agree as follows:

1. Incorporation of Recitals. The Parties hereby agree that the recitals set forth in this Amendment are deemed incorporated into this Amendment and the Agreement by this reference.

2. Definitions. All capitalized terms used but not defined in this Amendment shall have the meanings ascribed to them in the Agreement.

3. Amendment to Section 3.1.2. The Parties hereby agree that Section 3.1.2 of the Agreement is hereby amended and replaced with the following:
“This amended Agreement shall remain in effect for a period of one year from the Eighth Amendment to Professional Services Agreement Consultant Services’ (“Eighth Amendment”) Effective Date. This Agreement shall automatically terminate unless renewal is approved by the City Council of the City of Needles.”

4. All other terms of the Agreement not expressly amended by this Amendment shall remain in full force and effect.

5. This Amendment shall be governed by the laws of the State of California. Any legal action arising from or related to this Amendment shall be brought in the state or federal courts of the State of California in and for the County of San Bernardino.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties hereby have made and executed this Amendment to be effective as of the day and year first above written.

CITY OF NEEDLES, CALIFORNIA WILLDAN ENGINEERING
By: _____________________ By: _____________________
Title: City Manager Title: ____________________
Date: ____________________ Date: ____________________

ATTEST:
________________________
City Clerk
Approved As To Form:
_________________________
City Attorney
Agenda Item 10.

City of Needles, California
Request for City Council Action
CITY COUNCIL NPUA HACN Regular Special
Meeting Date: July 14, 2026
Title: Authorize or deny the City Manager, or designee, to submit an application for the City of Needles Safe Truck Parking Area Project through the U.S. Department of Transportation's Fiscal Year 2026 Nationally Significant Multimodal Freight and Highway Projects (INFRA) Program, and to execute all documents necessary for the application process and, if awarded, the acceptance and administration of grant funds, subject to City Attorney approval as to form
Background: In 2022, following the dissolution of California redevelopment agencies, the Successor Agency to the Redevelopment Agency of the City of Needles completed the sale of its final remaining property, located east of the Needles Town Center, to EVC Partners LLC EVC Partners LLC has approached the City regarding a potential partnership to pursue funding through the U.S.

Department of Transportation's Fiscal Year 2026 Nationally Significant Multimodal Freight and Highway Projects (INFRA) Program, Track 2 – Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Parking Eligible Projects. Because the INFRA Program requires a public agency applicant, the City of Needles must submit the grant application.

The proposal responds to longstanding concerns regarding illegal commercial truck parking in the Ice Plant Road area. The City has received numerous complaints from residents and businesses regarding trucks parking along public streets, resulting in traffic safety concerns, illegal dumping, litter, and unsanitary conditions. During 2026, the City has issued 204 citations for illegal truck parking violations and continues to devote significant Code Enforcement resources to addressing these ongoing issues.

The proposed project includes the acquisition of the project site, planning and design, and construction of a safe truck parking facility consisting of more than 100 commercial truck parking spaces, restroom facilities, site lighting, trash receptacles, a lighted pedestrian pathway connecting the facility to the Needles Town Center, perimeter fencing, security cameras, and paving of Ice Plant Road to provide access to the project site.

The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) District 8 has provided a letter of support for the City's INFRA grant application, recognizing the regional shortage of commercial truck parking along the Interstate 40 corridor and the project's potential to improve freight mobility, public safety, and community conditions.

EVC Partners LLC has retained Momentum to prepare and submit the grant application on the City's behalf and has committed to providing the required 20 percent local match if the project is awarded. The required 20 percent local match would be satisfied through donation of the project site to the City at its appraised fair market value. If the appraised value is insufficient to satisfy the required local match, EVC Partners LLC has committed to providing any additional funds necessary. The application deadline is July 15, 2026. The estimated grant award is between $5 million and $7 million. Award notice is expected by September 30, 2027.

As a condition of the grant application, EVC Partners LLC has proposed that, should the project be selected for funding, ownership of the property would be transferred to the City of Needles. If the project is awarded and the City accepts ownership of the property, the City would assume responsibility for grant administration, long-term operation and maintenance of the facility, compliance with all applicable U.S. Department of Transportation grant requirements, and maintenance of the project for the duration of the required grant term.

Fiscal Impact: Annual operating costs of the city owning and operating a safe truck parking facility are estimated at $79,200, which includes monthly utility costs of $4,600 and $2,000 janitorial supplies. Due to the size of the project, an additional Public Works Maintenance Worker I, would be needed to provide four to eight hours per day of maintenance at the site at $96,910 annually. The total estimated annual maintenance and operation cost is $176,110 including the cost for an additional staff member.

Agenda Item 11.

Environmental Impact: The proposed project is expected to reduce illegal truck parking, illegal dumping, litter, and other unsanitary conditions along Ice Plant Road while improving traffic safety and reducing impacts on nearby businesses and neighborhoods.

Recommendation: Authorize or deny the City Manager, or designee, to submit an application for the City of Needles Safe Truck Parking Area Project through the U.S. Department of Transportation's Fiscal Year 2026 Nationally Significant Multimodal Freight and Highway Projects (INFRA) Program, and to execute all documents necessary for the application process and, if awarded, the acceptance and administration of grant funds, subject to City Attorney approval as to form
Submitted By: Rainie Torrance, Utility Manager
City Manager Approval: Date:

Other Department Approval (when required): Date: 07/08/26 7/8/2026
Agenda Item 11.

NEEDLES SAFE TRUCK PARKING AREA 15.11 ± ACRES 100 - 20' X 74' TRUCK PARKING STALLS ± 504 S.F. RESTROOM FACILITIES WITH OFFICE AND STORAGE ± 46,740 S.F. RETENTION AREA US ROUTE 66 ICE PLANT ROAD INTERSTATE 40 ICE PLANT ROAD (E) POWER POLE TYP. WOMEN MEN OFFICE STORAGE (E) BILLBOARD SIGN OPEN SPACE AND TREE SHADED PICNIC AREA ± 10,000 SF BUFFER AREAS TYP. EMERGENCY ACCESS ROAD FULL PERIMETER SECURITY FENCE BUILDING AREA SITE LEGEND: NON-IRRIGATED BUFFER AREAS SITE CONCRETE STORM WATER RETENTION AREA ASPHALT AREA EXISTIING PROPERTY LINE PROPOSED PROPERTY LINE LANDSCAPE AREA 00400.00 AS NOTED TLG 07-07-2026 JDL project number : scale : stamp drawn by : checked by : plot date : approved for the architect by : approved for the owner by : sheet no. : PRELIMINARY DESIGN DRAWINGS FOR: issue : description : date : OWNER / DEVELOPER: GENERAL CONTRACTOR: NEEDLES SAFE TRUCK PARKING AREA NEEDLES, CALIFORNIA EVC PARTNERS LLC 2410 FAIR OAKS BLVD., SUITE 110 SACRAMENTO, CA 95825 A01.0 PRELIMINARY SITE PLAN 1 PRELIMINARY SITE MASTER PLAN Agenda Item 11.

City of Needles Safe Truck Parking Area
Project Description/Fact Sheet
The City of Needles is proposing to develop and operate a safe and secure parking area for trucks on a parcel of land located proximate to the interchange of Interstate 40 and California Highway 95 to meet the high demand for safe and legal truck parking in along the I-40 corridor and in particular in the Needles area as evidenced in the 2022 Caltrans Statewide Truck Parking Study and facts on the ground and to alleviate the unsafe, unsanitary, and illegal conditions existing today due to the lack of adequate parking for trucks.

Here is an overview of the proposed project as currently envisioned:
 The site of approximately 15 acres would contain 100 parking stalls for trucks.  The site is located on Ice Plant Road, with the site entrance located approximately 0.3 miles from the I-40/CA 95 interchange. The western edge of the site is adjacent to and highly visible from I-40.
 The project is located within close walking distance of existing services – two restaurants, a convenience market, and a 24-hour gym, as well as easy and quick access to other services within the City of Needles
 The project will include the following components:
o Improvement of Ice Plant Road from existing end of paving to the project site (approximately 1,200 ft)
o 100 parking stalls for trucks
o A ~500 sq ft restroom facility, with drinking water and an office space and equipment room for City personnel.
o Lighting of the parking lot as well as the restroom facility building o Trash receptables easily accessible throughout the site o Safe and well-lit walking pathways to the adjacent shopping center/proximate services
o Open space area with a tree shaded area for picnic tables, etc. o Perimeter security fencing, a security camera system, and signage re: directions and truck parking only
o Wi-fi connectivity
 Grant request will include the following components: site acquisition/contribution, planning and design, and construction.

Agenda Item 11.

This 504 s.f. restroom facility at the Needles Safe Truck Parking Area is a refreshing, durable building designed specifically for the desert climate of Needles. The design utilizes passive cooling techniques, deep roof overhangs, and heavy thermal mass to block intense regional heat. Strategic high-level clerestory windows fill the space with soft, indirect daylight, eliminating harsh glare while maintaining absolute privacy for users. To withstand intense UV exposure and sandstorms, the exterior walls feature textured, sand-blasted integral color concrete and split-face concrete masonry units that seamlessly blend into the local landscape. Capping the structure is a high-reflectivity standing seam metal roof.

Inside, the facility prioritizes hygiene, scratch resistance, and ease of maintenance by cladding surfaces in large-format, non-porous porcelain tiles with minimal grout lines.

Heavy-duty, marine-grade brushed stainless steel is used for all modern touchless fixtures, partitions, and hardware to ensure vandal-resistant durability for high-volume use. Overhead, exposed structural steel beams pair with a light-reflective, moistureresistant acoustic panel system to create an airy, voluminous feel.

The facility also includes a small secure office and equipment room for city personnel.

Agenda Item 11.
“Improving lives and communities through transportation” OFFICE OF THE DISTRICT 8 DIRECTOR
464 W. 4TH STREET, MS–1201 | SAN BERNARDINO, CA 92401
(909) 383-4055 | FAX (909) 383-6239 TTY 711
www.dot.ca.gov/DIST8
July 15, 2026
The Honorable Sean Duffy
Secretary
United States Department of Transportation
1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE
Washington, DC 20590
Dear Secretary Duffy:

The California Department of Transportation supports the application of the City of Needles to the United States Department of Transportation (US DOT) Fiscal Year 2026 Nationally Significant Multimodal Freight & Highway Projects (INFRA) Track 2 for Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Parking for the City of Needles Safe Truck Parking Area Project. The City is requesting funding to acquire the site and to complete the planning, design, and construction activities.

Additional safe and secure truck parking in the Needles area is critically needed to address the unsafe, unsanitary, and unlawful conditions currently occurring as a result of insufficient designated parking for commercial vehicles. Since the beginning of 2026, the City of Needles has issued 204 citations for illegal truck parking and continues to contend with ongoing issues such as illegal dumping and unsanitary conditions associated with unauthorized parking activity.

The Needles Safe Truck Parking Area Project would address the significant shortage of truck parking and the related health and safety challenges. The project would occupy a roughly 15- acre site located 0.3 miles from the I 40/California Highway 95 interchange, with access provided by improvements to Ice Plant Road. Key features include 100 truck parking stalls, restroom facilities with drinking water, site and facility lighting, conveniently located trash receptacles, open space with picnic and pet areas, and perimeter fencing with access control and security cameras.

Caltrans would like to thank US DOT for its consideration of this Project application. Signing this support letter does not constitute a financial commitment from Caltrans to cover funding shortfalls.

Sincerely,
CATALINO A. PINING III
District 8 Director
Agenda Item 11.

City of Needles, California
Request for City Council Action
CITY COUNCIL NPUA Regular Special
Meeting Date: July 14, 2026
Title: Reject all Bids for the Animal Control Restroom Addition Project Rebid; and Authorize Staff to Revise the Plans to Include the Purchase of a Modular or Prefabbed Building and Resolicit Bids for Installation of the Preferred Alternative Background: The City budgeted funds to construct a new restroom(s) and utility room for the Needles Animal Control site which currently has no restrooms. The original concept was to add the proposed addition to the existing building by removing a portion of an exterior wall and installing a block structure to match the design and architecture of the existing building.

On April 1, 2026, the Animal Control Restroom Project was advertised for bid with a bid opening date of April 22, 2026. One (1) bid was received in the amount of $348,293. This bid was rejected at the May 12, 2026 City Council meeting due to the mobilization bid item unit cost exceeding the maximum allowable amount in the bid specifications. In addition, the sole bid was over the City budgeted amount for the project.

On June 3, 2026, staff went out to bid for a 2nd time and received four (4) bids with the lowest bid at $236,937.78. Again, the mobilization bid item exceeded the allowable 5% maximum cost of the base bid and the total was over the City budgeted amount for the project.

Recently, Engineering and Animal Control staff met to discuss alternatives to reduce costs further and still achieve the goal of providing restroom facilities for the existing site. The alternatives discussed were mobile restrooms, prefabbed restrooms, modular buildings, and converted shipping containers.

Staff will present a PowerPoint presentation of available options with construction estimates for the purchase of a standalone structure/unit to provide restrooms with options for office space, storage, and a washroom.

Fiscal Impact: The City will incur minimal costs related to rejecting bids for the Animal Control Restroom Addition project and estimate $1500 to modify plans and rebid the project.

Recommendation: Reject all Bids for the Animal Control Restroom Addition Project Rebid; and Authorize Staff to Revise the Plans to Include the Purchase of a Modular or Prefabbed Building and Resolicit Bids for Installation of the Preferred Alternative Submitted By: Kathy Raasch, Director of Development Services/Capital Projects City Manager Approval: Date:

Other Department Approval (when required): Date: 07/08/26 7/8/2026
Agenda Item 12.

City of Needles
Submissions for Solicitation ANIMAL CONTROL RESTROOM ADDITION (Re-bid) (AC2601) Issued on 06/04/2026
Submissions Due on June 18, 2026 3:30 PM (PDT)
Exported on 06/23/2026
Line Totals (Unit Price * Quantity)
Item No. Section Description Unit of Quantity Global Builders Inc LM Rasmussen Precise Builders Inc. M. Brey, Inc Measure Construction Inc
1 BASE BID MOBILIZATION LS 1 $50,376.00 $18,717.00 $26,040.00 $48,798.71 2 BASE BID BUILDING PERMIT LS 1 $4,338.78 $4,338.78 $4,338.78 $4,338.78 3 BASE BID DEMO LS 1 $10,800.00 $9,006.00 $7,113.00 $14,390.95 4 BASE BID RESTROOM & UTILITY ROOM IMPROVEMENTS LS 1 $90,132.00 $144,306.00 $150,143.00 $108,558.96 5 BASE BID PLUMBING COMPLETE LS 1 $26,722.00 $23,000.00 $42,594.00 $29,928.14 6 BASE BID ELECTRICAL COMPLETE LS 1 $14,403.00 $15,110.00 $27,885.00 $17,987.65 7 BASE BID ROOFING COMPLETE LS 1 $8,053.00 $16,500.00 $18,321.00 $20,560.65 8 BASE BID CONCRETE FLOOR AND FOOTINGS LS 1 $24,849.00 $33,791.00 $12,462.00 $80,760.88 Subtotal $229,673.78 $264,768.78 $288,896.78 $325,324.72 9 ALTERNATE NO. 1 REMOVE & DISPOSE OF EXISTING TREE LS 1 $7,264.00 $1,980.00 $7,068.00 $7,590.95 Subtotal $7,264.00 $1,980.00 $7,068.00 $7,590.95
Total $236,937.78 $266,748.78 $295,964.78 $332,915.67
Agenda Item 12.

City of Needles, California
Request for City Council Action
CITY COUNCIL NPUA HACN Regular Special
Meeting Date: July 14, 2026
Title: Adopt Resolution Calling for the Submission of a Transient Occupancy Tax Measure and Ordering the Submission of the Measure to the Qualified Voters at the November 3, 2026 General Municipal Election
Background: The City of Needles currently imposes a ten percent (10%) Transient Occupancy Tax ("TOT") on hotel, motel, recreational vehicle park, short-term rental, and other transient lodging stays of thirty (30) consecutive days or less pursuant to Chapter 20, Article III of the Needles Municipal Code. The tax is paid primarily by visitors staying in local lodging establishments and is deposited into the City's General Fund to support general municipal services.

Over the past five fiscal years, the City has averaged approximately $10 million annually in hotel receipts, generating approximately $1 million each year in Transient Occupancy Tax revenue. Independent fiscal analysis prepared for the City concluded that the local lodging market has remained stable during this period and is expected to continue generating consistent revenues into the foreseeable future.

To provide additional General Fund revenue for essential City services while minimizing the financial impact on City residents, the City Council is considering submitting to the voters a measure to increase the City's Transient Occupancy Tax from ten percent (10%) to fourteen percent (14%) through the following phased implementation schedule:
 Effective January 1, 2027: 12%
 Effective January 1, 2029: 13%
 Effective January 1, 2030: 14%
If approved by a majority of City voters at the November 3, 2026 General Municipal Election, the ordinance would amend the Needles Municipal Code to implement the phased tax increases. The current TOT of 10% would remain in effect through December 31, 2026 and the implementation schedule would commence on January 1, 2027. The proposed measure is a general tax under Article XIIIC of the California Constitution.

Revenues generated by the measure would remain local and may be used for any lawful municipal purpose, including maintaining and improving streets, parks, public infrastructure, public safety, economic development, and other general City services. The measure also provides for annual public disclosure of revenues and expenditures to promote transparency and accountability.

Analysis: The proposed ordinance would submit to the voters a general tax measure increasing the City's existing Transient Occupancy Tax from ten percent (10%) to fourteen percent (14%) through a phased implementation schedule extending from 2027 through 2030.

Based on current lodging activity, the measure is projected to generate approximately $200,000 annually beginning in 2027, $300,000 annually beginning in 2029, and approximately $400,000 annually upon full implementation beginning in 2030.

Unlike property taxes or sales taxes, the Transient Occupancy Tax is paid primarily by visitors staying in hotels, motels, recreational vehicle parks, and short-term rental accommodations rather than by City residents. According to the independent fiscal analysis prepared for the City, the local lodging market has demonstrated consistent stability over the past five years and is expected to continue generating consistent Agenda Item 13.
revenues. The analysis further concluded that the proposed increase is not expected to materially affect hotel occupancy or overall lodging demand because visitors to Needles primarily consist of Interstate 40 travelers, project-related workers, and Route 66 tourists whose travel decisions are not expected to be significantly influenced by the proposed tax increase.

If approved by the voters, the additional General Fund revenues would provide the City Council with greater financial flexibility to maintain and improve essential municipal services while preserving local control over those revenues. Because the measure is a general tax, the revenues are not legally restricted to a specific purpose and may be used for any lawful governmental purpose as determined by the City Council through the annual budget process.

Fiscal Impact: If approved by the voters, the measure is projected to generate approximately $200,000 annually beginning January 1, 2027, approximately $300,000 annually beginning January 1, 2029, and approximately $400,000 annually upon full implementation beginning January 1, 2030. All revenues generated by the measure will be deposited into the City's General Fund and may be used for any lawful governmental purpose.

Environmental Impact: The proposed action is not a project under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15378(b)(5), as it involves organizational and administrative activities of government that will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment.

Recommendation: Adopt Resolution 2026-27 Calling for the Placement of a Transient Occupancy Tax Measure on the Ballot at the General Municipal Election to Be Held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026 and for the Submission to the Qualified Voters of an Ordinance to Enact a Four Percentage Point Increase in Transient Occupancy Tax.

Submitted By: Patrick Martinez, City Manager
City Manager Approval: Date:

Other Department Approval (when required): Date: 07/08/26 7/8/2026
Agenda Item 13.

RESOLUTION NO. 2026-27

RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NEEDLES CALLING FOR THE PLACEMENT

OF A TRANSIENT OCCUPANCY TAX MEASURE ON THE BALLOT AT THE GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION TO BE HELD ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2026,

FOR THE SUBMISSION TO THE QUALIFIED VOTERS OF AN ORDINANCE TO ENACT

A FOUR PERCENTAGE POINT INCREASE IN TRANSIENT OCCUPANCY TAX WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Needles (“City”) is authorized to levy a Transient Occupancy Tax (“TOT”) for general purposes pursuant to California Revenue and Taxation Code §7280, subject to approval by a majority vote of the electorate pursuant to Article XIIIC, § 2 of the California Constitution (“Proposition 218”); and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Chapter 20, Article 20-III, sections 20-8 and 20-9 of the Needles City Code, the City currently levies a TOT of 10 percent (10%) on persons who occupy hotel, motel, short-term rental and other lodging establishments in the City for thirty (30) consecutive calendar days or less; and WHEREAS, pursuant to California Elections Code §9222, the City Council has authority to place local measures on the ballot to be considered at a Municipal Election; and WHEREAS,theCityCouncil would like to submittothe voters atthe November 3, 2026GeneralMunicipal Election a measure enacting an increase in TOT at a rate of four percent (4%) on the occupancy in any applicable lodging establishment until ended by voters; and WHEREAS, the proposed increase to the TOT is more completely described in the ordinance attached hereto as Exhibit “A” and incorporated herein by reference; and WHEREAS, if approved, TOT will increase from 10 percent to 14 percent according to the following schedule:

Effective January 1, 2027, the transient occupancy tax shall be twelve percent (12%).

Effective January 1, 2029, the transient occupancy tax shall be thirteen percent (13%).

Effective January 1, 2030, the transient occupancy tax shall be fourteen percent (14%); and WHEREAS, TOT is a general tax, the revenue of which will be placed in the City’s general fund and will be used to pay for important general City services; and
WHEREAS, on November 6, 1996, the voters of the State of California approved Proposition 218, an amendment to the State Constitution which requires that all general taxes which are imposed, extended or increased must be submitted to the electorate and approved by a majority vote of the qualified electors voting in the election; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Proposition 218 (California Constitution Article XIIIC, §2(b)), the general rule is that any local election for the approval of an increase to a general tax must be consolidated with a regularly scheduled general election for members of the governing body of the local government; and WHEREAS, the next regularly scheduled general election at which City Council members are to be elected is November 3, 2026; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Government Code §53724 (“Proposition 62”) and Revenue and Taxation Code §7285.9, a two-thirds (2/3) vote of all members of the City Council is required to place the Measure on the November 3, 2026 ballot; and
Agenda Item 13.

WHEREAS, the ordinance to be considered by the qualified voters and the terms of approval, collection and use of TOT are described and provided for in the ordinance/measure attached hereto as Exhibit “A” (the “Measure” or “Ordinance”) and by this reference made an operative part hereof, in accordance with all applicable laws.

NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NEEDLES DOES HEREBY RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:

Section 1. All of the above recitals are true and correct and incorporated herein by reference.

Section 2. Submission of Ballot Measure. Pursuant to California Elections Code §9222, Government Code §53724, Revenue and Taxation Code §7280 and any other applicable requirements of the laws of the State ofCalifornia relating to theCity, theCityCouncil, by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of all members, hereby orders the Measure to be submitted to the voters of the City at the General Municipal Election to be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026.

Section 3. The City Council, pursuant to California Elections Code §9222, hereby orders that the Measure shall be presented and printed upon the ballot submitted to the qualified voters in the manner and form set forth in this Section 3. On the ballot to be submitted to the qualified voters at the General Municipal Election to be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, in addition to any other matters required by law, there shall be printed substantially the following ballot question:

MEASURE : CITY OF NEEDLES QUALITY OF LIFE

AND ESSENTIAL CITY SERVICES MEASURE
Shall the measure to maintain and improve quality of life by supporting local businesses and jobs; keeping public areas safe, clean, and well maintained; maintaining and improving streets, parks, and other public infrastructure; and funding other general City services, by increasing the City of Needles Transient Occupancy Tax paid primarily by hotel, motel, and short-term rental guests from 10% to 14% in phases,
generating approximately $400,000 annually, with annual public disclosure and remaining in effect until ended by voters, be adopted?
YES
NO
Section 4. That the proposed complete text of the Ordinance submitted to the voters is attached as Exhibit A and incorporated herein by reference.

Section 5. That the vote requirement for the measure specified above to pass is a majority (50%+1) of the votes cast.

Section 6. Conduct of Election. The City Clerk, who shall serve as the City Elections Official, is authorized, instructed, and directed to coordinate with the San Bernardino County Registrar of Voters to procure and furnish any and all official ballots, printed matter and all supplies, equipment and paraphernalia that may be necessary in order to properly and lawfully conduct the election. In all particulars not recited in this Resolution, the election shall be held and conducted as provided by law for holding municipal elections.

Section 7. Pursuant to California Elections Code Section 9280, the City Council hereby directs the City Clerk to transmit a copy of the Measure to the City Attorney. The City Attorney shall prepare an impartial Agenda Item 13.
analysis of the Measure, not to exceed 500 words in length, showing the effect of the Measure on the existing law and the operation of the Measure, and transmit such impartial analysis to the City Clerk not later than the deadline for submittal of primary arguments for or against the Measure.

Section 8. Arguments and Impartial Analysis.

A. The City Council authorizes (i) the City Council or any member(s) of the City Council, (ii) any individual voter eligible to vote on the above Resolution, (iii) a bona fide association of such citizens or any combination of voters and associations, to file a written argument in favor of or against the Resolution, in accordance with Article 4, Chapter 3, Division 9 of the Elections Code of the State of California, which argument may be changed until and including the deadline set by the San Bernardino County Registrar of Voters, after which no arguments for or against the Resolution may be submitted to the City. Arguments in favor of or against the Resolution shall each not exceed 300 words in length. Each argument shall be filed by the City Clerk, signed, include the printed name(s) and signature(s) of the author(s) submitting it, or submitted on behalf of an organization, the name of the organization, and the printed name and signature of at least one of its principal officers who is the author of the argument.

B. The City Clerk shall comply with all provisions of law establishing priority of arguments for printing and distribution to the voters and shall take all necessary actions to cause the selected arguments to be printed and distributed to the voters.

8.A. above. The impartial analysis shall include a statement indicating whether the Resolution was placed on the ballot by a petition signed by the requisite number of voters or by the City Council. In the event the entire text of the Resolution is not printed on the ballot, nor in the voter information portion of the sample ballot, there shall be printed immediately below the impartial analysis, no less than 10 font bold type, the following:
“The above statement is an impartial analysis of Resolution No. 2026-XX or Measure. The above statement is an impartial analysis of Ordinance or Measure. If you desire a copy of the ordinance or measure, please call the Office of the City Clerk at (760) 326-2113 and a copy will be mailed at no cost to you.” D. The provisions of this section shall apply only to the election to be held on November 3, 2026, and shall then be repealed.

Section. 9. Rebuttals.

A. Pursuant to section 9285 of the Elections Code of the State of California, when the City Clerk has selected the arguments for and against the Resolution which will be printed and distributed to the voters, the Clerk shall send copies of the argument in favor of the Resolution to the authors of the argument against, and copies of the argument against the Resolution to authors of the argument in favor. The authors or persons designated by them may prepare and submit rebuttal arguments not exceeding 250 words. The rebuttal argument shall be filed with the City Clerk not later than 10 days after the deadline for primary arguments set forth in section 8 above. Rebuttal arguments shall be printed in the same manner as the direct arguments.

Each rebuttal argument shall immediately follow the direct argument which it seeks to rebut.

B. The provisions of this section shall apply only to the election to be held on November 3, 2026, and then shall be repealed.

Agenda Item 13.

Section 10. Notice of the election is hereby given and the City Clerk is authorized, instructed and directed to give further or additional notice of the election, in time, form and manner as required by law.

Section 11. Placement on the Ballot. The full text of the Ordinance shall not be printed in the voter information guide, and a statement shall be printed in the ballot pursuant to Elections Code section 9223 advising voters that they may obtain a copy of this Resolution and the Ordinance, at no cost, upon request made to the City Clerk.

Section 12. Filing with County. The City Clerk shall, not later than the 88th day prior to the General Municipal Election to be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, file with the Board of Supervisors and the San Bernardino Registrar of Voters, State of California, a certified copy of this Resolution.

Section 13. Public Examination. Pursuant to California Elections Code section 9295, this Ordinance will be available for public examination for no fewer than ten (10) calendar days prior to being submitted for printing in the voter information guide. The City Clerk shall post notice in the Clerk's office of the specific dates that the examination period will run.

Section 14. The City Council hereby finds and determines that the Ordinance relates to organizational or administrative activities of governments that will not result in direct or indirect or indirect physical changes in the environment and therefore is not a project within the meaning of the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") and the State CEQA Guidelines, section 15378(b)(5).

Section 15. Severability. The provisions of this Resolution are severable and if any provision of this Resolution is held invalid, that provision shall be severed from the Resolution and the remainder of this Resolution shall continue in full force and effect, and not be affected by such invalidity.

Section 16. This Resolution shall become effective upon its adoption.

Section 17. The City Clerk shall certify to the passage and adoption of this Resolution and enter it into the book of original resolutions. The City Council directs the City Clerk to deliver copies of this Resolution, including the Ordinance attached hereto as Exhibit A, to the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors of San Bernardino County and to the Registrar of Voters of San Bernardino County.

PASSED, APPROVED and ADOPTED this 14th day of July 2026, by the following roll call vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:

Janet Jernigan, Mayor
ATTEST:

Candace Clark, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:

City Attorney
Agenda Item 13.
4 EXHIBIT A
ORDINANCE NO. 683-AC

AN ORDINANCE OF THE PEOPLE OF THE CITY OF NEEDLES AMENDING THE NEEDLES CITY CODE SECTIONS 20-8 (TAX LEVIED), 20.9 (SUBMITTAL OF REPORT; REMITTAL OF COLLECTIONS), AND 20-10 (PENALTY FOR DELINQUENT REPORTS AND REMITTALS) TO INCREASE THE TRANSIENT

OCCUPANCY TAX FROM TEN PERCENT TO FOURTEEN PERCENT
(NOTE: Additions are highlighted in bold italics and deletions are highlighted in strikeout.)

RECITALS
WHEREAS, on July 14, 2026, the City Council resolved to submit this Ordinance to the voters as a measure at the general municipal election to be held on November 3, 2026; and WHEREAS, the purpose of this Ordinance is to impose an additional general transient occupancy tax of four percent (4%) in addition to the existing transient occupancy tax of ten percent (10%). This increase in transient occupancy tax shall be implemented in phases as follows:

1. As of the January 1, 2027, the transient occupancy tax shall be increased to twelve percent (12%);

2. As of the January 1, 2029, the transient occupancy tax shall be increased to thirteen percent (13%);

3. As of the January 1, 2030, the transient occupancy tax shall be increased to fourteen percent (14%); and
WHEREAS, the current transient occupancy tax is applied to and collected from operators of local hotels, motels, short term residential properties and rental units, and other such properties; and WHEREAS, the transient occupancy tax is paid only by guests who stay in local hotels and other lodgings so that out-of-town visitors pay their fair share of their use of City roads, parks, recreational facilities, public safety and other City services; and
WHEREAS, and the revenues from the transient occupancy tax remain in the City, are controlled by the City, and are used for unrestricted general municipal purposes such as public safety, infrastructure, street repair and park improvements. Transient occupancy tax revenues cannot be taken by San Bernadino County or the State of California; and WHEREAS, by increasing the transient occupancy tax by four percent (4%), it is estimated the City will raise approximately $200,000 annually in 2027, $300,000 annually in 2029, and $400,000 annually in 2030. The transient occupancy tax will be used for general city services, including protecting residents’ quality of life and property values while continuing to provide excellent services.

The full text of Article 20-III Transient Occupancy Tax of the Needles Municipal Code (redlined) is Agenda Item 13.
5 attached hereto as Attachment “1”.

NOW, THEREFORE, THE PEOPLE OF THE CITY OF NEEDLES DO HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:

Section 1. Recitals. All of the above recitals are true and correct and incorporated herein by reference.

Section 2. Text Amendment. Section 20-8, Tax Levied, of the Needles City Code is hereby amended to read as follows, with additions noted by underlined text and deletions noted by struckthrough text:

Section 20-8 of the Needles Municipal Code is amended to read:

Tax levied. Every operator of a hotel, motel, apartment hotel, apartment motel, trailer court, recreational vehicle park, short term residential rental unit and/or property, or any other commercial establishment furnishing lodging space in exchange for monetary compensation, located within the city, shall pay a transient occupancy tax of ten percent which shall be based on the operator's gross monthly receipts received from transient lodgers. Effective January 1, 2027, the transient occupancy tax shall be twelve percent (12%). Effective January 1, 2029, the transient occupancy tax shall be thirteen percent (13%). Effective January 1, 2030, the transient occupancy tax shall be fourteen percent (14%).

Section 3. Text Amendment. Section 20-9, Submittal of Report; Remittal of Collections, of the Needles City Code is hereby amended to read as follows, with additions noted by underlined text and deletions noted by struck-through text:

Section 20-9 of the Needles Municipal Code is amended to read:

Submittal of Report; Remittal of Collections. Every operator shall submit a report of its gross monthly income and submit ten a percentage of its gross monthly income as transient occupancy tax to the city clerk, within thirty days after the end of each calendar month. Effective January 1, 2027, the transient occupancy tax shall be twelve percent (12%). Effective January 1, 2029, the transient occupancy tax shall be thirteen percent (13%). Effective January 1, 2030, the transient occupancy tax shall be fourteen percent (14%).

Section 4. Text Amendment. Section 20-10, Penalty for Delinquent Reports and Remittals, of the Needles City Code is hereby amended to read as follows, with additions noted by underlined text and deletions noted by struck-through text:

Section 20-10 of the Needles Municipal Code is amended to read:

Penalty for Delinquent Reports and Remittals. In the event that the gross monthly Agenda Item 13.
6 income is not reported and the ten percent thereof transient occupancy tax in effect is not remitted to the city clerk as provided in this article, then any person so violating this article shall pay as a penalty thereof ten percent in addition to the transient occupancy tax in effect as stated above ten percent levy, after thirty days; after sixty days delinquency an additional ten percent shall be added to both delinquency and penalty; and after ninety days delinquency and additional ten percent shall be added to both delinquency and penalty. If such levy is not the paid, an additional sum of one percent per month shall be paid on all delinquent amounts accrued.

Section 5. Severability. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase of this ordinance is for any reason held to be invalid, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this ordinance. The people of the City of Needles hereby declare that they would have passed this ordinance and each section, subsection, sentence, clause, and phrase thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, sentences, clauses, or phrases be declared invalid.

Section 6. Environmental Compliance. The City Council hereby finds and determines that this resolution or Measure is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act, Public Resources Code sections 21000 et seq. (“CEQA”) and 14 Cal. Code Regs. sections 15000 et seq. (“CEQA Guidelines”). The calling and noticing of an election for the submission of a ballot measure to voters is not a project within the meaning of CEQA Guidelines 15378. The tax submitted to the voters is a general tax that can be used for any governmental purpose; it is not a commitment to any particular action or actions.

As such, under CEQA Guidelines Section 15378 (b)(4), the tax is not a project within the meaning of CEQA because it creates a government funding mechanism that does not involve any commitment to any specific project that may result in a potentially significant physical impact on the environment. If revenue generated by the tax were used for a purpose that would have such an effect, the City of Needles would undertake the required CEQA review for that particular project. Therefore, pursuant to CEQA Guideline Section 15060 CEQA analysis
Section 7. Effective date. If this Ordinance is approved by a majority of the electors voting on the issue at the November 3, 2026, general municipal election, pursuant to Elections Code Section 9217, the Ordinance shall become effective ten (10) days after the City Council accepts the certified results of the election.

Section 8. The Mayor is hereby authorized to attest to the adoption of this Ordinance by the People voting thereon on November 3, 2026, by signing where indicated below.

Section 9. The City Clerk is hereby directed to publish this Ordinance at least once, within fifteen (15) days after the election results are certified, in a newspaper of general circulation published and circulated in the City of Needles.

Agenda Item 13.
7 I hereby certify that the foregoing Ordinance was PASSED AND ADOPTED by the People of the City of Needles on the 3rd day of November 2026.

Dated:
___________________________________
Janet Jernigan, Mayor
ATTEST:
____________________________________________
Candace Clark, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
____________________________________________
John O. Pinkney, City Attorney
Agenda Item 13.
8 Attachment 1
Article 20-III Transient Occupancy Tax (Redlined)
20-8 Tax Levied
Every operator of a hotel, motel, apartment hotel, apartment motel, trailer court, recreational vehicle park, short term residential rental unit and/or property, or any other commercial establishment furnishing lodging space in exchange for monetary compensation, located within the city, shall pay a transient occupancy tax of ten percent which shall be based on the operator's gross monthly receipts received from transient lodgers. Effective January 1, 2027, the transient occupancy tax shall be twelve percent (12%). Effective January 1, 2029, the transient occupancy tax shall be thirteen percent (13%). Effective January 1, 2030, the transient occupancy tax shall be fourteen percent (14%).
20-8.1 Repealed By Ord No 235-AC
20-8.2 Definitions
The words and phrases set out in this section, when used in this Article, have the following respective meanings, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning:
(a) “Transient lodger” shall mean a person who occupies a room restricted to twenty nine days consecutive occupancy or, for a period of thirty consecutive calendar days or less, exercises occupancy or is entitled to occupancy by reason of concession, permit, right of access, license or contract. In determining whether a person is a “transient lodger”, portions of calendar days shall be counted as full days and uninterrupted periods of time extending both prior and subsequent to the effective date of this Article may be considered.
(b) “Occupancy” shall mean the use or possession, or the right to the use or possession of a lodging space.
(c) “Operator” shall mean the person who is an owner and/or proprietor of a hotel, motel, apartment hotel, apartment motel, trailer court, recreational vehicle park, short term residential rental unit and/or property, or any other commercial establishment furnishing lodging space in exchange for monetary compensation within the city. If an operator utilizes a managing agent who is not an employee, then such agent shall also constitute an "operator" for the purposes of this Article. Compliance with this Article by either the principal or the managing agent shall constitute compliance by both. (d) “Persons” shall mean any individual, firm, partnership, joint venture, association, social club, fraternal organization, joint stock company, corporation, estate, trust, business trust, receiver, trustee, syndicate, or any other group or combination acting as unit.
(e) "Lodging space" shall mean (i) one or more rooms used or intended to be used for Agenda Item 13.
9 dwelling or sleeping purposes, (ii) land in a trailer court or recreational vehicle park used or intended to be used for the parking of a trailer, recreational vehicle or other type vehicle used or intended to be for dwelling or sleeping purposes, and or a short term residential rental unit as defined in section 12-68.3.030, as may be amended from time to time.
(f) “Rent roll” shall mean a list of (i) the name of the person or persons who occupy or have the right to occupy the lodging space, (ii) the date or dates upon which the person or persons occupied or had the right to occupy the lodging space, (iii) the revenue received from the person or persons and (iv) the lodging space number or numbers occupied by person or persons, or the lodging space number or numbers to which the person or persons had the right to occupy.
(g) “Fee schedule” shall mean a list of the rents charged for lodging space which shall separately identify those rents charged on a daily, weekly and monthly rate. 20-9 Submittal Of Report; Remittal Of Collections
Every operator shall submit a report of its gross monthly income and submit ten a percentage of its gross monthly income as transient occupancy tax to the city clerk, within thirty days after the end of each calendar month. Effective January 1, 2027, the transient occupancy tax shall be twelve percent (12%). Effective January 1, 2029, the transient occupancy tax shall be thirteen percent (13%). Effective January 1, 2030, the transient occupancy tax shall be fourteen percent (14%).
20-10 Penalty For Delinquent Reports And Remittals
Penalty for Delinquent Reports and Remittals. In the event that the gross monthly income is not reported and the ten percent thereoftransient occupancy tax in effect is not remitted to the city clerk as provided in this article, then any person so violating this article shall pay as a penalty thereof ten percent in addition to the transient occupancy tax in effect as stated above ten percent levy, after thirty days; after sixty days delinquency an additional ten percent shall be added to both delinquency and penalty; and after ninety days delinquency and additional ten percent shall be added to both delinquency and penalty. If such levy is not the paid, an additional sum of one percent per month shall be paid on all delinquent amounts accrued.
20-10.1 Liability Of Successor Of Operator
(a) If any operator liable for any amount under this article sells out his business or quits the business, his successor or assignee shall withhold sufficient of the purchase price to cover such amount until the seller produces a receipt from the city clerk showing that it has been paid or a certificate stating that no amount is due. (b) Within ten days after receiving a written request from the successor or seller for such receipt or certificate, or within thirty days from the date upon which the city clerk is notified in writing that the seller’s records are available for audit, whichever occurs later, the city clerk shall either issue the receipt or certificate, or the mail notice to both Agenda Item 13.
10 the seller and the successor, at the addresses indicated upon the request, of the amount of estimates taxes, interest and penalties due and that must be paid as a condition of issuing a receipt. Failure of the city clerk to mail the notice will release the successor from any further obligation to withhold funds from the purchase price as provided herein.
(c) If the successor has not received a receipt or certificate from the seller, or from the city clerk except an excused by subsection (b), within thirty days after such successor commences to conduct business, the successor shall deposit the withheld amount of estimated taxes, interest and penalties, along with the last known address of the seller, with the city clerk in satisfaction of seller’s outstanding tax liability and shall mail a notice to the seller indicating the amount deposited by the successor. If the successor fails to withhold and/or deposit a sufficient portion of the purchase price as required by this section, the successor shall be personally liable to the city for the payment of the amount required to be withheld and/or deposited, up to the full amount of the purchase price. This section is intended to impose liability upon a successor for any taxes, interest and penalties which may be dues at the time of transfer. 20-10.2Procedure For Collecting Unremitted Taxes
(a) Lien Imposed upon Failure to Remit Transient Occupancy Tax when Due. (1) If any amount required to be remitted to the city under this article is not paid when due, the city may, within three years after the amount is due, estimate the amount of tax owed based on the information available to the city. The city then may file for record in the office of the San Bernardino County recorder, or with the Secretary of State, or both, a certificate specifying the amount of tax, penalties and interest due, the name and address, as it appears on the records of the city, of the operator, successor operator, or both, liable for the same and the fact that the city has complied with the provisions of this article in the determination of the amount required to be paid. Before such filing, the city shall give ten days written notice of its intent to file the lien to the operator, and successor operator if liable, including specification of the amount due. If the property is owned by a different party than the operator or successor operator, then the city shall also give ten days written notice to the real property owner before filing the lien.
(b) Initiation of Legal Action. The city attorney, on behalf o the city as plaintiff, may bring suit for the recovery of sums due under this article.
(c) The provisions of this article may be enforced by any other method authorized by law, including but not limited to misdemeanor or infraction prosecution pursuant to section 520 of the Needles City Charter.
20-10.3Review Of Determination Of Amounts Due
Agenda Item 13.
11 (a) Application for Informal Review. Within twenty days of mailing of a notice described in section 20-10.1(b), section 20-10.1(c), or section 20-10.2(a), any liable party may apply in writing to the city manager for informal review of the amount assessed. If the liable party is mailed notice pursuant to more than one such subsection, the time within which to request a hearing begins to run from the mailing of the first notice. If application for informal review is not made within the time prescribed, the taxes, interest and penalties, if any, determined to be owing pursuant to this article shall become final and conclusive and immediately due and payable. If a request for informal review is timely made, notice of the date, time and place of the review shall be given by mail, written notice within the five days of the request, and the hearing shall be held no sooner that fifteen days, nor later than thirty days thereafter, unless agreed between the liable party and the review hearing officer.
(b) Conduct of Informal Review. The informal review shall be conducted by the city manager, or his/her designated representative, and he/she shall be known as the “review hearing officer.” The liable party may be represented by an attorney, the hearing shall be informal and technical rules of evidence shall not apply. The review hearing officer shall render a written decision within ten days of the hearing, which shall be final unless timely appealed. The amount, if any, determined to be due following hearing shall be due within twenty days of the mailing of notice of decision unless an appeal is taken.
(c) Appeal. An appeal of the decision of the review hearing officer shall be a de novo review and may be made by giving notice, in writing, to the city council of the City of Needles within twenty days of the date of mailing of the review hearing officer’s decision. The appeal hearing shall be conducted by a neutral appeal hearing officer designated by the city council. The appeal hearing shall be conducted no sooner than fifteen days, not later than thirty days, of the mailing of the written notification of appeal, unless agreed between the liable party and the appeal hearing officer. (d) Conduct of Appeal Hearing. Formal rules of evidence shall not apply and any evidence which would ordinarily be considered by reasonable persons addressing serious business may be presented.

Evidentiary decisions shall be made by the appeal hearing officer. The liable party may speak on his own behalf, may be represented by an attorney, may call and examine witnesses and may cross examine witnesses called against him. Any party may request that court reporter transcribe the proceedings by depositing, in full, the cost of such reporter. If a reporter is present at the hearing at the request at the request of any party, any party shall be entitled to purchase a copy of the transcript from the reporter at the reporter’s normal charge. The liable party may, but is not required to, submit written argument up to two business days prior to the date of the hearing, and may attached copies of documentary evidence to be presented at the hearing. The appeal hearing officer shall render a written decision within ten days of the appeal hearing, including findings of fact and conclusions of law. The decision of the appeal hearing officer is a final, binding determination and shall be conclusive of the issues unless timely appealed to the city council.
(e) Appeal to City Council. Within ten days of mailing of the decision of the appeal hearing officer, the liable party may appeal the decision of the appeal hearing officer by written notice of appeal to the city council. City council review shall be conducted at public hearing to be held within thirty days of the date of mailing of notice of appeal to the city council. City council review shall be limited to a review of the appeal hearing officer’s decision based upon the record and not additional evidence may be presented. However, the liable party, or his attorney if he desires to be so represented, may present Agenda Item 13.
12 written argument to the city council up to two business days prior to the hearing, and may speak at the hearing. The city council shall render its decision no later than the next regularly scheduled council meeting, and may affirm the decision of the appeal hearing officer, remand for the taking of additional evidence or for reconsideration or both, or may overturn the decision of the appeal hearing officer. The decision of the city council is a final and binding determination of the issues, except as the issues remanded, unless timely appealed to the Superior Court of the State as provided in the California Code of Civil Procedure. Unless so appealed, payment of the taxes due, as well as interest and penalties, shall be due and payable within ten days of the date the city council renders its decision. (f) The provisions of subsections (d) and (e) shall apply to proceedings following remand of issues to be appeal hearing officer, and city council review thereafter, except that evidence and argument presumed shall be limited to the issues remanded.
(g) If the party requesting a hearing or appeal under this section fails to appear at the hearing without just cause, the hearing may be conducted in the requesting party’s absence. 20-10.4 Revocation Of Business License For Noncompliance Failure to comply with the provisions of this article constitutes good cause for revocation of any operator’s or successor’s business license under section 12-7 of the code of the city, with respect to the hotel, motel, apartment hotel or motel or trailer court business from which such noncompliance arises. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a revocation arising from a noncompliance for which review has been requested pursuant to section 20-10.3 shall be stayed pending completion of review. Any applicable requirement for the posting of a bond set forth in the California Code of Civil Procedure shall apply pending any court review.
20-11 Right Of Entry Of City Officials To Audit Records The city, for purposes deemed necessary by it, through the proper city official, shall have the right of entry to conduct an audit of the records of operators for the current year and the three preceding years. 20-11.1 Records That May Be Audited
For the purposes of this section, the term “records” shall mean any and all documents or things that substantiate gross lodging revenues subject to this Article and any adjustments or exemptions from gross revenues claimed. The term “records” includes, but is not limited to, (i) income tax returns filed for the operator subject to this Article; (ii) monthly bank statements; (iii) daily maid service reports; (iv) fee schedules, (v) rent rolls; and (vi) copies of the monthly transient occupancy tax reports filed pursuant to this Article, along with proof of payment.
20-11.2 Term Of Records Retention
For the purposes of this section, operators shall maintain records for the current year and three preceding years.

Agenda Item 13.
13 STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF SAN BERNARDINO ) ss

CITY OF NEEDLES )
I, Candace Clark, City Clerk of the City of Needles, do hereby certify the foregoing Ordinance No. 683-AC was duly adopted by the voters of the City of Needles on the 3rd day of November, 2026, and thereafter signed and approved by the Mayor and attested by the City Clerk.

Date:

City Clerk
Agenda Item 13.
09960.00000\45188851.1
City of Needles, California
Request for City Council Action
CITY COUNCIL NPUA HACN Regular Special
Meeting Date: July 14, 2026
Title: Adopt Resolution of Necessity and Conduct First Reading of Ordinance 684-AC Ordering the Submission of a General Obligation Bond Measure to the Qualified Voters at the November 3, 2026 General Municipal Election Background: The City of Needles has identified critical needs for repairs and improvements to roads and transportation infrastructure, streets and potholes, parks and recreational facilities, community safety, and revitalization of downtown Main Street. General obligation bonds have historically provided cities with the lowest long-term borrowing costs. These bonds are voter-approved and repaid through ad valorem property taxes levied only as needed to pay debt service.

A recent community survey indicated support for a bond measure with a modest tax impact. The proposed $11,200,000 bond measure is sized to generate approximately $739,971 annually on average while the bonds are outstanding, with a projected rate of $60 per $100,000 of assessed valuation resulting in an estimated average annual impact in the range previously identified as having community support.

The proposed process follows the statutory requirements of the California Government Code for municipal general obligation bonds.

Analysis:

Resolution of Necessity: Required by Government Code Section 43607. Must be adopted by the requisite Council vote. Finds public necessity for the Improvements and that costs exceed annual levy capacity.

Ordinance: Required by Government Code Section 43610. Includes object and purpose, estimated costs, maximum bond amount of $11,200,000, maximum interest rate, full text of the bond measure and election details. The Ordinance will be provided to voters as part of the voter information materials. 75-Word Ballot Question: The summary statement of the measure will appear on the ballot with the following question: “To improve the City of Needles including roads and transportation infrastructure; repairing and repaving streets; fixing potholes; maintaining community safety; improving parks and recreational facilities; and revitalizing downtown Main Street; shall the City of Needles measure be approved authorizing $11,200,000 of bonds at legal rates, generating on average $739,971 annually while bonds are outstanding at a rate of $60 per $100,000 assessed value, with annual audits, independent citizens’ oversight, NO money for salaries and all money staying in Needles?” Timeline: First reading at this meeting; second reading and adoption at the next regular meeting. Final documents must be submitted to the San Bernardino County Registrar of Voters no later than 88 days in advance of the November 3, 2026 election.

Voter Approval: Requires two-thirds approval of the City Council and two-thirds approval of the voters.

Accountability: The measure includes strong accountability provisions, including annual audits, independent citizens’ oversight, prohibition on use of funds for salaries, and Agenda Item 14.
09960.00000\45188851.1
requirement that all funds stay in Needles — consistent with community expectations.

Fiscal Impact: If approved by voters, the $11,200,000 in bonds would be repaid solely through the levy of ad valorem property taxes. The measure is projected to generate on average $739,971 annually while the bonds are outstanding at a rate of $60 per $100,000 of assessed valuation. This is designed to result in a modest average annual impact for Needles property owners. There is no direct impact on the City’s General Fund operating budget.

Environmental Impact: State CEQA Guidelines Section 15378(b)(4) excludes “government funding mechanisms or other government fiscal activities” from the definition of “project” when they do not involve any commitment to any specific project which may result in a potentially significant physical impact on the environment. Voter approval of the proposed bonds will not commit the City to issue bonds or construct any specific project. Specific capital projects funded by bond proceeds will undergo separate CEQA review at the appropriate time.

Recommendation:

It is recommended that the City Council:

1. Find that the proposed action and the proposed ballot measure are not subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15378(b)(4), as they constitute government funding mechanisms that do not involve a commitment to any specific project which may result in a potentially significant physical impact on the environment;

2. Adopt the Resolution of Necessity determining that the public interest and necessity demand the municipal improvements and that bonded indebtedness is required; and

3. Conduct the first reading of Ordinance 684-AC ordering the submission of a General Obligation Bond Measure to the qualified voters of the City at the November 3, 2026 general election for the purpose of financing road repairs, public facilities, and other essential municipal infrastructure improvements.

4. Reinstate the July 28, 2026, Regular City Council Meeting Attachments:

1. Resolution of Necessity

2. Ordinance 684-AC Ordering Submission of Bond Measure (first reading)

3. 75-Word Ballot Question (as provided above)

4. Tax Rate Statement (prepared by Municipal Advisor reflecting $11,200,000 bond and $60 per $100,000 rate)
Submitted By: Patrick Martinez, City Manager
City Manager Approval: Date:

Other Department Approval (when required): Date:

Acting City Manager 7/9/2026
Agenda Item 14.
09960.00000\45188778.1

CITY OF NEEDLES
ATTACHMENT 3
75-WORD BALLOT QUESTION
The following 75-word ballot question will appear on the November 3, 2026, ballot:
“To improve the City of Needles including roads and transportation infrastructure; repairing and repaving streets; fixing potholes; maintaining community safety; improving parks and recreational facilities; and revitalizing downtown Main Street; shall the City of Needles measure be approved authorizing $11,200,000 of bonds at legal rates, generating on average $739,971 annually while bonds are outstanding at a rate of $60 per $100,000 assessed value, with annual audits, independent citizens’ oversight, NO money for salaries and all money staying in Needles?”
Word Count: 75 words (as provided and confirmed).

This question will be used in the voter information pamphlet and on the official ballot. The full text of the measure is attached as an Exhibit to the Ordinance.

Prepared for: City Council Meeting – July 14, 2026
Agenda Item 14.
09960.00000\45188452.1
RESOLUTION 2026-30

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF NEEDLES DETERMINING THE NECESSITY OF ISSUING GENERAL

OBLIGATION BONDS FOR MUNICIPAL IMPROVEMENTS
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Needles (the “City”) has determined that it is necessary and in the public interest to acquire, construct, improve, renovate, and equip certain municipal improvements and public infrastructure within the City, including but not limited to road repairs and rehabilitation, public facilities, and other essential infrastructure projects (collectively, the “Improvements”); and WHEREAS, the estimated cost of the Improvements exceeds the amount that can be provided for from the City’s annual tax levy and other available funds; and
WHEREAS, it is necessary to incur bonded indebtedness to finance the cost of the Improvements; and WHEREAS, California Government Code Section 43607 requires that before issuing general obligation bonds, the legislative body must adopt a resolution by a two-thirds vote (or such other vote as may be required) determining that the public interest or necessity demands the improvements and that the cost will require an expenditure greater than the amount allowed by the annual tax levy.

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

Section 1. The public interest and necessity demand the acquisition, construction, improvement, renovation, and equipping of the Improvements described above.

Section 2. The cost of the Improvements will require an expenditure greater than the amount allowed by the City’s annual tax levy.

Section 3. It is necessary and desirable to issue general obligation bonds of the City to finance the cost of the Improvements, subject to voter approval and the proceedings required by law.

Section 4. The City Clerk is directed to transmit a certified copy of this Resolution to the appropriate parties as required for further proceedings under the Government Code.

Section 5. This Resolution shall take effect immediately upon its adoption.

PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED this 14 day of July, 2026, by the City Council of the City of Needles by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:

Janet Jernigan, Mayor
ATTEST:

Candace Clark, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:

City Attorney
Agenda Item 14.
09960.00000\45188769.1
ORDINANCE 684-AC

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NEEDLES

ORDERING THE SUBMISSION OF A PROPOSITION INCURRING BONDED INDEBTEDNESS

TO THE QUALIFIED VOTERS OF THE CITY OF NEEDLES, CALIFORNIA AT THE GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION TO BE HELD ON NOVEMBER 3, 2026 WHEREAS, the City Council (“City Council”) of the City of Needles (“City”) has adopted a Resolution of Necessity determining that the public interest and necessity demand certain municipal improvements and that it is necessary to issue general obligation bonds to finance the cost thereof; and
WHEREAS, it is the desire of the City Council to submit to the qualified voters of the City at the general municipal election to be held on November 3, 2026, a proposition authorizing the issuance of general obligation bonds for such purposes.

NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NEEDLES DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:

Section 1. Purpose. The purpose of this Ordinance is to order the submission to the qualified voters of the City of Needles, at the general municipal election to be held on November 3, 2026, of a proposition authorizing the issuance of general obligation bonds of the City.

Section 2. Objective and Purpose of Bonds. The object and purpose of the bonds is to finance the cost of acquiring, constructing, improving, renovating, and equipping municipal improvements and public infrastructure within the City, including but not limited to, improvements to roads and transportation infrastructure, street rehabilitation, street repaving, and pothole repair, public facilities, parks and recreational facilities, community safety improvements, and the revitalization of Downtown Main Street. The bonds may also fund all necessary costs and expenses incidental thereto, including costs of issuance.

Section 3. Estimated Cost. The estimated cost of the improvements to be financed is approximately $11,200,000 (including costs of issuance and sale of the bonds).

Section 4. Maximum Principal Amount of Bonds. The maximum principal amount of bonds to be issued shall not exceed $11,200,000. The bonds may be issued in one or more series.

Section 5. Maximum Interest Rate. The bonds shall bear interest at a rate or rates not to exceed the maximum rate permitted by law (which is currently 8%).

Section 6. Election. The proposition shall be submitted to the qualified voters of the City at the general municipal election to be held on November 3, 2026, which election is hereby called and ordered to be held. The election shall be consolidated with the statewide general election on the same date, and the San Bernardino County Registrar of Voters is requested to perform all services necessary for the conduct of the election.

Section 7. Ballot Proposition. The abbreviated form of the proposition to appear on the ballot shall be substantially as follows:
“To improve the City of Needles including roads and transportation infrastructure; repairing and repaving streets; fixing potholes; maintaining community safety; improving parks and recreational facilities; and revitalizing downtown Main Street; shall the City of Needles measure be approved authorizing $11,200,000 of bonds at legal rates, generating on Agenda Item 14.
09960.00000\45188769.1
average $739,971 annually while bonds are outstanding at a rate of $60 per $100,000 assessed value, with annual audits, independent citizens’ oversight, NO money for salaries and all money staying in Needles?”
Section 8. Full Text of Ballot Measure. The full text of the proposition shall be as set forth in Exhibit A hereto is hereby approved and shall be included in the voter information pamphlet. The tax rate statement, attached hereto at Exhibit B, is hereby approved.

Section 9. Tax Levy. If the proposition is approved by the requisite number of voters, the City shall levy and collect an ad valorem tax on all taxable property in the City sufficient to pay the principal of and interest on the bonds as the same become due.

Section 10. Accountability. The City shall comply with all applicable accountability requirements, including but not limited to establishing a separate account for bond proceeds, annual reporting, and independent audits.

Section 11. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days after its final adoption, except that for purposes of calling the election it shall take effect immediately upon adoption to the extent permitted by law.

INTRODUCED AND READ for the first time and ordered posted at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Needles, California, held on the 14th day of July 2026, by the following roll call vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:

Janet Jernigan, Mayor
ATTEST:

Candace Clark, City Clerk
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED this 28th day of July 2026, at the regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Needles, California, by the following roll call vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:

Janet Jernigan, Mayor
ATTEST:

Candace Clark, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:

City Attorney
Agenda Item 14.
09960.00000\45188769.1

EXHIBIT A

FULL TEXT OF BALLOT MEASURE

INTRODUCTION
The City of Needles (“City”) faces a number of challenges due to aging and insufficient infrastructure.

Public improvements are needed to City infrastructure, including but not limited to streets and roads, sidewalks, and parks and recreational facilities. A local general obligation bond was identified as a necessary component in meeting the capital financing needs of the City.

BOND AUTHORIZATION
By approval of this measure (the “Measure”) by at least two-thirds of the qualified voters voting, the City shall be authorized to issue and sell bonds in the aggregate principal amount of $11,200,000 to provide financing for City projects consisting of improvement, acquisition, construction, and renovation of City facilities and infrastructure, subject to all of the accountability safeguards specified in this Measure.

The City plans and expects to use proceeds of the bonds authorized by this Measure to finance the improvement, acquisition, construction, and renovation of public infrastructure, which is expected to include the following project elements:

Street, Roadway and Pothole Repair Improvements
• Repair, replace, resurface, repave, construct, acquire, and upgrade City streets, roads, alleys, parking, intersections and transportation infrastructure • Fix potholes
• Address pavement deterioration
• Repair, replace, resurface, repave, construct, acquire, and upgrade street surfaces • Improve street safety
• Repair, replace, construct, acquire, and upgrade drainage infrastructure • Repair, replace, construct, acquire, and upgrade curbs, gutters, medians, traffic improvements, striping, signage, lighting, and signals
Sidewalk and Pedestrian Safety Improvements
• Repair, replace, resurface, repave, construct, acquire, and upgrade sidewalks, walkways, curb ramps, crosswalks, pedestrian paths, and accessibility improvements.

Parks and Recreational Facilities
• Acquire, repair, replace, construct, acquire, and upgrade parks, playgrounds, recreational facilities, restrooms, irrigation, landscaping, and parking at City parks and recreational facilities.

Each of the foregoing bond projects may include all incidental projects, including abatement and removal of hazardous materials, addressing unforeseen conditions revealed by construction and/or reconstruction, other improvements required to comply with existing building codes, and all work necessary and incidental to specific projects described above, including any demolition, and all costs which are incidental but directly related to the types of projects described above. Examples of incidental costs include, but are not limited to, costs of design, engineering, architect and other professional services, facilities assessments, inspections, site preparation, utilities, landscaping, Agenda Item 14.
09960.00000\45188769.1
construction management and other planning and permitting, bond issuance, accounting and similar costs, demolition and disposal of existing structures, and federal and state-mandated safety measures and upgrades. Bond projects do not include money for administrator salaries or benefits or general operating expenses – see below.

The City Council has reserved the right to finance authorized projects with the bonds as it deems advisable and necessary. The inclusion or specification of a project in the foregoing list is not a guarantee that such project will be constructed or completed, or that it will be constructed or completed as described above at any particular time or in any particular order of priority. Projects and upgrades will be completed as needed at a particular site according to City Council-established priorities. This Measure authorized the financing of projects, and shall not be deemed to be an approval of any “project” for purposes of the California Environmental Quality Act.

All of the purposes enumerated in this Measure shall constitute the specific purposes of the bonds, and proceeds of the bonds shall be spent only for such purposes.

ACCOUNTABILITY MEASURES
No Money for Administrators’ Salaries or Benefits - Proceeds from the sale of the bonds authorized by this Measure shall be used only for costs incurred in connection with the improvement, acquisition, rehabilitation and construction of the projects listed above, and the costs of the issuance of the bonds, and not for any other purpose, including staff and administrator salaries and other operating expenses.

Special Bond Proceeds Account, Annual Audit, and Report to Board – The City Council hereby directs that a separate account shall be established for deposit of proceeds of the sale of bonds authorized by this Measure if the Measure is approved by the voters.

For so long as any proceeds of the bonds authorized by this Measure remain unexpended, the City Treasurer shall cause a report to be filed with the City Council no later than five (5) months after the end of each fiscal year, commencing with the first fiscal year during which any proceeds of bonds authorized by this Measure shall have been received. The report shall state (1) the amount of bond proceeds received and expended in such fiscal year, and (2) the status of any projects funded or to be funded from the proceeds of bonds authorized to be issued by this Measure. The report may be incorporated into or filed with the audit or other appropriate routine report provided to the City Council. Audited financial statements of the City will continue to be made available in accordance with applicable requirements.

OTHER TERMS OF BONDS
The bonds authorized by this Measure, in an aggregate principal amount of $11,200,000 shall be issued upon the order of the City Council in one or more series and at one or more times as may be necessary and most advantageous to raise money for the purposes set forth herein.

The bonds shall bear interest payable at a rate not exceeding the legal limit.

The bonds, or any series thereof, shall have a maturity date no later than forty years following the date of issuance of such series.

The taxes levied pursuant to this Measure shall be collected in the same manner as ad valorem property taxes and applied towards the payment of principal of and interest on said bonds.

Agenda Item 14.
09960.00000\45188769.1

EXHIBIT B

TAX RATE STATEMENT
An election will be held in the City of Needles (the “City”) on November 3, 2026 to authorize the sale of up to $11,200,000 in general obligation bonds to finance the City projects as described in the bond measure. If such bonds are authorized, the City expects to sell the bonds in one or more series. The following information is submitted in compliance with Sections 9400-9404 of the Elections Code of the State of California. Such information is based upon the best estimates and projections presently available from official sources, upon experience within the City, and other demonstrable factors.

Based upon the foregoing and projections of the City’s assessed valuation available at the time of this statement, the following information is provided:

1. The best estimate of the average annual tax rate that would be required to be levied to fund this bond issue over the entire duration of the bond debt service, based on estimated assessed valuations available at the time of filing of this statement, is 6¢ per $100 ($60 per $100,000) of assessed valuation. It is currently expected that the final fiscal year in which the tax will be collected is fiscal year 2058-59.

2. The best estimate of the highest tax rate that would be required to be levied to fund this bond issue, and an estimate of the year in which that rate will apply, based on estimated assessed valuations available at the time of filing this statement, or a projection based on experience within the same jurisdiction or other demonstrable factors, is 6¢ per $100 ($60 per $100,000) of assessed valuation of all property to be taxed for fiscal years 2027-28 through and including 2060-61; this tax rate is projected to apply in each fiscal year that the bonds are outstanding.

3. The best estimate of total debt service, including principal and interest, that would be required to be repaid if all the bonds are issued and sold will be approximately $25.16 million.

The attention of all voters is directed to the fact that the foregoing information is based upon projections and estimates only, which amounts are not maximum amounts and durations and are not binding upon the City. These estimates are based on projections derived from information obtained from official sources, and are based on the assessed value (not market value) of taxable property on the County’s official tax rolls. In addition, taxpayers eligible for a property tax exemption, such as the homeowner’s exemption, will be taxed at a lower effective tax rate than described above.

Property owners should consult their own property tax bills and tax advisors to determine their property’s assessed value and any applicable tax exemptions. The actual debt service, tax rates and the years in which they will apply may vary depending on the timing of bond sales, the par amount of bonds sold at each sale, and actual increases in assessed valuations. The timing of the bond sales and the amount of bonds sold at any given time will be determined by the City based on the need for project funds and other considerations. Actual assessed valuations will depend upon the amount and value of taxable property within the City as determined by the County Assessor in the annual assessment and the equalization process.

Agenda Item 14.

City of Needles, California
Request for City Council Action
CITY COUNCIL NPUA HACN Regular Special
Meeting Date: July 14, 2026
Title: Adopt Resolution Calling for the Submission of a Charter Amendment Measure Regarding City Council Compensation and Submission of the Measure to the Qualified Voters at the November 3, 2026 General Municipal Election Background: The City of Needles is a charter city operating under a City Charter originally adopted by the voters on June 3, 1958, approved by the California State Legislature on January 28, 1959, and subsequently amended. Section 503 of the City Charter currently provides that each member of the City Council shall receive compensation in the amount of one dollar ($1.00) per month, an amount that has remained unchanged since the Charter was adopted in 1958, approximately sixtyeight (68) years ago.

As a charter city, the City of Needles has authority under the California Constitution to establish compensation for its elected officials through its City Charter. Because City Council compensation is established in Section 503 of the Charter, any modification requires approval by the voters through a Charter amendment.

The City Council has expressed an interest in allowing the voters to consider updating Section 503 of the City Charter to establish compensation for City Council Members at two hundred fifty dollars ($250.00) per month. The proposed amendment would not alter reimbursement provisions for authorized travel or other official expenses and would not authorize any additional compensation beyond that expressly provided in the Charter.

If approved by a majority of City voters at the November 3, 2026 General Municipal Election, the Charter amendment would revise Section 503 of the City Charter to increase the monthly compensation for each member of the City Council from $1.00 per month to $250.00 per month. The proposed amendment would become effective following certification of the election results in accordance with applicable law.

Analysis: The proposed Charter amendment would submit to the voters the question of whether to amend Section 503 of the City Charter to increase the compensation of each City Council Member from one dollar ($1.00) per month to two hundred fifty dollars ($250.00) per month.

The proposed Charter amendment would allow the City's voters to determine whether to amend Section 503 of the City Charter to increase City Council compensation. Unlike a general law city, which may adjust compensation by ordinance pursuant to Government Code Section 36516, compensation for members of the Needles City Council is established by the City Charter and therefore may only be modified through voter approval of a Charter amendment.

The current compensation established by the Charter has remained unchanged since the Charter's adoption nearly seven decades ago. The proposed amendment would revise Section 503 of the City Charter to establish City Council compensation at two hundred fifty dollars ($250.00) per month while continuing the existing provisions authorizing reimbursement for approved travel and other official expenses permitted under the Charter. As a Charter amendment, the proposal must be approved by a majority of the voters voting on the measure at the November 3, 2026 General Municipal Election before becoming effective.

Agenda Item 15.

Fiscal Impact: If approved by the voters, the proposed Charter amendment would increase City Council compensation from one dollar ($1.00) per month to two hundred fifty dollars ($250.00) per month for each Council Member. Based on the current seven-member City Council, annual compensation would increase from $84 to $21,000, representing an estimated annual increase of $20,916. The additional cost would be funded through the General Fund as part of the annual budget process.

Recommendation: Adopt Resolution 2026-29, a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Needles calling for the placement of a Charter Amendment Measure regarding City Council compensation on the ballot at the November 3, 2026 General Municipal Election for submission to the qualified voters.

Submitted By: Patrick Martinez, City Manager
City Manager Approval: Date:

Other Department Approval (when required): Date: 07/08/26 7/8/2026
Agenda Item 15.
1 RESOLUTION NO. 2026-29

RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NEEDLES CALLING FOR THE

PLACEMENT OF A MEASURE ON THE BALLOT AT THE GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION TO BE HELD ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2026 FOR THE SUBMISSION TO THE QUALIFIED VOTERS OF

AN AMENDMENT TO THE CITY OF NEEDLES CHARTER TO ENACT AN INCREASE IN CITY

COUNCIL COMPENSATION
WHEREAS, the City of Needles (the “City”) is a Charter City formed under Article XI of the Constitution of the State of California; and
WHEREAS, the people of the City of Needles adopted the Charter (“Charter”) on June 3, 1958, which was approved by the legislature of the State of California on January 28, 1959, and subsequently amended; and
WHEREAS, section 503 of the Charter, adopted 68 years ago, provides for compensation of members of the City Council in the amount of One Dollar ($1.00) per month; and WHEREAS, a ballot measure is being proposed to amend section 503 “Compensation” of the Charter. The proposed ballot measure is as follows:

MEASURE : CITY COUNCIL COMPENSATIONCHARTER AMENDMENT
Shall the proposed amendment to Section 503 of the City Charter to increase the compensation for each member of the City Council from $1 per month to $250 per month be
approved?
YES
NO
The full text of the proposed amendment to section 503 of the City of Needles Charter “Compensation” is attached as Exhibit “A” and incorporated herein by reference; and WHEREAS, pursuant to California Elections Code §9222, the City Council has authority to place local measures on the ballot to be considered at a Municipal Election; and WHEREAS, the City Council would like to submit to the voters at the November 3, 2026 General Municipal Election a measure enacting an increase in City Council compensation from one dollar ($1.00) to two hundred fifty dollars ($250.00) per month; and
WHEREAS, the next regularly scheduled general election at which City Council members are to be elected is November 3, 2026; and
WHEREAS, this Charter amendment measure must be approved by a majority of the electorate to be effective.

NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NEEDLES DOES HEREBY RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:

Agenda Item 15.
2 Section 1. All of the above recitals are true and correct and incorporated herein by reference.

Section 2. The provisions and sections of this Resolution, appearing above and below, are adopted and shall apply to the submission of the City Council Compensation-Charter Amendment Measure to the voters of the City of Needles at the next General Municipal Election to be held on November 3, 2026.

MEASURE : CITY COUNCIL COMPENSATION-CHARTER

AMENDMENT
Shall the proposed amendment to section 503 of the City Charter of the City of Needles to increase the compensation for each member of the City Council from $1 per month to $250 per month be approved?
YES
NO
The full text of the proposed amendment to section 503 of the City of Needles Charter “Compensation” is attached as Exhibit “A” and incorporated herein by reference.

Section 5. That the vote requirement for the measure specified above to pass is a majority (50%+1) of the votes cast.

Section 7. Pursuant to California Elections Code Section 9280, the City Council hereby directs the City Clerk to transmit a copy of the Measure to the City Attorney. The City Attorney shall prepare an impartial analysis of the Measure, not to exceed 500 words in length, showing the effect of the Measure on the existing law and the operation of the Measure, and transmit such impartial analysis to the City Clerk not later than the deadline for submittal of primary arguments for or against the Measure.

Section 8. Arguments and Impartial Analysis.

A. The City Council authorizes (i) the City Council or any member(s) of the City Council, (ii) any individual voter eligible to vote on the above Resolution, (iii) a bona fide association of such citizens or any combination of voters and associations, to file a written argument in favor of or against the Resolution, in accordance with Article 4, Chapter 3, Division 9 of the Elections Code of the State of California, which argument may be changed until and including the deadline set by the San Bernardino County Registrar of Voters, after which no arguments for or against the Resolution may be submitted to the City. Arguments in favor of or against the Resolution shall each not exceed 300 words in length. Each argument shall be filed by the City Clerk, signed, include the printed name(s) and signature(s) of the author(s) submitting it, or submitted on behalf of an organization, the name of the organization, and the Agenda Item 15.
3 printed name and signature of at least one of its principal officers who is the author of the argument.

C. Pursuant to section 9280 of the Elections Code, the City Council directs the City Clerk to transmit a copy of the Resolution to the City Attorney. The City Attorney shall prepare an impartial analysis of the Resolution, not to exceed 500 words in length, showing the effect of the Resolution on the existing law and the operation of the Resolution. The City Attorney shall transmit such impartial analysis to the City Clerk, who shall cause the analysis to be published in the voter guide along with the Resolution as provided by law. The impartial analysis shall be filed by the deadline set for filing of primary arguments is set forth in subsection 8.A. above. The impartial analysis shall include a statement indicating whether the Resolution was placed on the ballot by a petition signed by the requisite number of voters or by the City Council. In the event the entire text of the Resolution is not printed on the ballot, nor in the voter information portion of the sample ballot, there shall be printed immediately below the impartial analysis, no less than 10 font bold type, the following: “The above statement is an impartial analysis of Resolution No. 2026-XX or Measure. The above statement is an impartial analysis of Ordinance or Measure. If you desire a copy of the ordinance or measure, please call the Office of the City Clerk at (760) 326-2113 and a copy will be mailed at no cost to you.”
D. The provisions of this section shall apply only to the election to be held on November 3, 2026, and shall then be repealed.

Section. 9. Rebuttals.

The authors or persons designated by them may prepare and submit rebuttal arguments not exceeding 250 words. The rebuttal argument shall be filed with the City Clerk not later than 10 days after the deadline for primary arguments set forth in section 8 above. Rebuttal arguments shall be printed in the same manner as the direct arguments. Each rebuttal argument shall immediately follow the direct argument which it seeks to rebut.

B. The provisions of this section shall apply only to the election to be held on November 3rd, 2026, and then shall be repealed.

Section 11. Placement on the Ballot. The full text of the Measure shall not be printed in the voter information guide, and a statement shall be printed in the ballot pursuant to Elections Code section 9223 advising voters that they may obtain a copy of this Resolution and the Measure, at no cost, upon request made to the City Clerk.

Section 13. Public Examination. Pursuant to California Elections Code §9295, this Measure will be available for public examination for no fewer than ten (10) calendar days prior to being submitted for printing Agenda Item 15.
4 in the voter information guide. The City Clerk shall post notice in the Clerk's office of the specific dates that the examination period will run.

Section 14. The City Council hereby finds and determines that the Measure relates to organizational or administrative activities of governments that will not result in direct or indirect or indirect physical changes in the environment and therefore is not a project within the meaning of the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") and the State CEQA Guidelines, section 15378(b)(5).

Section 16. This Resolution shall become effective upon its adoption.

PASSED, APPROVED and ADOPTED this 14th day of July, 2026, by the following roll call vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:

Janet Jernigan, Mayor
ATTEST:

Candace Clark, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:

City Attorney
Agenda Item 15.
5 EXHIBIT A

PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE NEEDLES CITY CHARTER

A PROPOSED AMENDMENT OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NEEDLES AMENDING SECTION 503 NEEDLES CITY CHARTER TO INCREASE CITY COUNCIL COMPENSATION FROM ONE DOLLAR ($1.00) TO TWO HUNDRED FIFTY DOLLARS ($250.00) PER MONTH (NOTE: Additions are highlighted in bold italics and deletions are highlighted in strikeout.)

RECITALS
WHEREAS, on July 14, 2026, the City Council resolved to submit this Amendment to the voters as a “Measure” at the general municipal election to be held on November 3, 2026; and WHEREAS, the Needles City Charter, adopted 68 years ago, provides for compensation of members of the City Council in the amount of One Dollar ($1.00) per month; and WHEREAS, the purpose of this Measure is to increase in City Council compensation from one dollar ($1.00) to two hundred fifty dollars ($250.00) per month; and WHEREAS, the full text of section 503 of the City of Needles Charter (redlined and clean) is attached hereto as Attachment “1”.

NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NEEDLES DOES HEREBY RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:

Section 1. Recitals. All of the above recitals are true and correct and incorporated herein by reference.

Section 2. Text Amendment. Section 503, Compensation, of the City of Needles Charter is hereby amended to read as follows, with additions noted by underlined text and deletions noted by struckthrough text:

Section 503 of the City of Needles Charter is amended to read:

Compensation. Each member of the council shall be entitled to receive a salary of two hundred fifty dollars ($250.00) per calendar month. Members of the council shall also be entitled to reimbursement on order of the council for council authorized traveling expenses and other expenses actually incurred when on official duty or order of the council. Members of the council shall receive no other compensation from the city.

Section 5. Severability. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase of this Measure is for any reason held to be invalid, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Measure. The people of the City of Needles hereby declare that they would have passed this Measure and each section, subsection, sentence, clause, and phrase thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, sentences, clauses, or phrases be declared invalid.

The calling and noticing of an election for the submission of a ballot measure to voters is not a project Agenda Item 15.
6 within the meaning of CEQA Guidelines 15378. The tax submitted to the voters is a general tax that can be used for any governmental purpose; it is not a commitment to any particular action or actions.

Section 7. Effective date. If this Measure is approved by a majority of the electors voting on the issue at the November 3, 2026, general municipal election, pursuant to Elections Code Section 9217, the Measure shall become effective ten (10) days after the City Council accepts the certified results of the election.

Section 8. The Mayor is hereby authorized to attest to the adoption of this Amendment to the Needles City Charter by the People voting thereon on November 3, 2026, by signing where indicated below.

Section 9. The City Clerk is hereby directed to publish this Amendment to the Needles City Charter at least once, within fifteen (15) days after the election results are certified, in a newspaper of general circulation published and circulated in the City of Needles.

I hereby certify that the foregoing Measure was PASSED AND ADOPTED by the People of the City of Needles on the 3rd day of November 2026.

Section 503 (Clean)
Compensation. Each member of the council shall be entitled to receive a salary of two hundred fifty dollars ($250.00) per calendar month. Members of the council shall also be entitled to reimbursement on order of the council for council authorized traveling expenses and other expenses actually incurred when on official duty or order of the council. Members of the council shall receive no other compensation from the city.

Agenda Item 15.
8 STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF SAN BERNARDINO ) ss

CITY OF NEEDLES )
I, Candace Clark, City Clerk of the City of Needles, do hereby certify the foregoing Needles City Charter Amendment/Measure was duly adopted by the voters of the City of Needles on the 3rd day of November, 2026, and thereafter signed and approved by the Mayor and attested by the City Clerk.

Date:

City Clerk
Agenda Item 15.

Page 1 of 5 ends

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 3, 2026
City Manager's Weekly Highlights
Economic Development & Tourism
• Received statewide media recognition as FOX26 News featured California's first Off-Highway Motor Vehicle (OHMV) Pilot Program.
• Continued statewide momentum for the City's OHMV Pilot Program as AB 1756 advanced in the California Senate.
• Strengthened Needles' position as California's leader in outdoor recreation and OHMV tourism.

Public Safety
• Participated in the regional Operation Dry Water National Media Kickoff promoting safe and responsible boating during the Fourth of July holiday. • Issued the City's annual Fourth of July fireworks safety reminder, encouraging safe and legal celebrations while highlighting reporting options for illegal fireworks.
• Continued promoting the WeTip Anonymous Reporting Program to encourage residents to report crime, graffiti, vandalism, fraud, drug activity, and other public safety concerns.

Community Services & Quality of Life
• Reopened the Duke Watkins Park Splash Pad in time for the summer season. • Reminded families that K-12 and Palo Verde College students ride Needles Area Transit (NAT) free year-round, including throughout the summer. • Launched the City's new Community Events Calendar to improve public awareness of community events and civic activities.

Community Engagement
• Opened recruitment for vacancies on the Needles Housing Commission and Parks and Recreation Commission.
• Promoted upcoming Fourth of July celebrations, Assemblymember Jeff Gonzalez's Town Hall, and other community events.

Page 2 of 5 ends

1. OHMV Pilot Program – Statewide Recognition: FOX26 News has aired a feature highlighting the City's groundbreaking Off-Highway Motor Vehicle (OHMV) Pilot Program. The FOX26 news segment showcases Needles' leadership as the first city in California to establish a designated OHMV route network connecting riders directly to surrounding Bureau of Land Management trail systems. The story features Mayor Janet Jernigan discussing the City Council's vision of leveraging outdoor recreation as an economic development strategy while highlighting the anticipated benefits to local businesses and tourism. The segment also includes Assemblymember Jeff Gonzalez discussing the program's significance and its potential to serve as a model for communities throughout California. Additionally, members of the off-road community expressed interest in implementing similar programs in other regions of the state. The statewide coverage reinforces Needles' position as California's leader in municipal OHMV route connectivity and further establishes the City's first-inCalifornia pilot program as a model for other communities exploring similar opportunities. Links to the FOX26 news segment and accompanying news article are provided for the Council's review.

2. AB 1756 – OHMV Pilot Program Extension: Assembly Bill 1756, authored by Assemblymember Jeff Gonzalez, continues to advance through the California Legislature. The bill was approved by the Senate Transportation Committee earlier last month and was subsequently approved on July 1 by the Senate Natural Resources and Water Committee, advancing on consent without opposition. The legislation extends the City of Needles' Off-Highway Motor Vehicle (OHMV) Pilot Program through January 1, 2033, providing long-term certainty for the City's designated combined-use route network and continued connectivity between the community, local businesses, and surrounding Bureau of Land Management trail systems. The bill now advances to the Senate Appropriations Committee for consideration. The City appreciates Assemblymember Jeff Gonzalez's leadership and continued partnership in advancing legislation that supports recreation, tourism, economic development, and Needles' continued leadership as California's first city to establish a designated OHMV combined-use route network.

3. Operation Dry Water – Regional Fourth of July Safety Initiative: The City of Needles participated in the 2026 Operation Dry Water National Media Kickoff in Lake Havasu City, a regional event marking the kickoff of a national boating safety campaign promoting sober and responsible recreation on the Colorado River during the Independence Day holiday. The event brought together law enforcement, public safety agencies, and regional partners from across the tristate area to coordinate boating safety and boating-under-the-influence prevention efforts during the nationwide July Fourth enforcement period. The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, including the Colorado River Station led by Captain Gault and Sheriff Shannon Dicus, participated alongside Supervisor Dawn Rowe, Mayor Janet Jernigan, and Vice Mayor Ellen Campbell, highlighting strong regional collaboration along the Colorado River corridor. The national campaign emphasizes education, enforcement, and prevention during the highest-risk boating period of the year. With the Fourth of July holiday occurring this weekend, boaters are reminded to operate safely and responsibly on the waterways.

Page 3 of 5 ends

4. Fireworks Safety – Fourth of July: The San Bernardino County Fire Protection District, led by Fire Chief/Fire Warden Daniel R. Munsey, issued its annual Fourth of July fireworks safety advisory. The District reminds residents that illegal fireworks remain prohibited in most areas of San Bernardino County, with enforcement actions, fines up to $1,250, and potential arrest for violations.

Property owners may also be held liable for fireworks activity on their property.

In Needles, "Safe and Sane" fireworks are permitted. State Fire Marshalapproved "Safe and Sane" fireworks can be purchased from the Needles Area Chamber of Commerce's annual fundraiser. Residents choosing to celebrate with fireworks are encouraged to use them safely by ensuring adult supervision, keeping water or extinguishing equipment nearby, and using fireworks only on non-combustible surfaces. Illegal fireworks activity may be reported through the WeTip hotline at 1-800-47-ARSON, the San Bernardino County Sheriff's nonemergency dispatch line at 909-387-8313, or by scanning the QR code included to access the County's online fireworks reporting portal.

5. WeTip Anonymous Reporting Program: The City continues to promote the WeTip Anonymous Reporting Program, a 24/7/365 anonymous reporting resource that enables residents to report crime, graffiti, vandalism, fraud, drug activity, bullying, arson, and other misconduct through phone, text, and online reporting options. The program supports law enforcement by directing information to the appropriate authorities while protecting the identity of those who report. As the City continues its proactive efforts to maintain a safe, clean, and attractive community, residents are encouraged to utilize WeTip as a valuable tool in helping deter illegal activity and improve neighborhood safety. A flyer containing reporting information, including a QR code for additional information, is attached for the Council's reference.

6. Duke Watkins Park – Splash Pad Reopened: The City of Needles Splash Pad at Duke Watkins Park has been officially reopened and is now available for public use just in time for the summer season. City staff completed necessary preparations to restore the facility and ensure it is safe, clean, and fully operational for community enjoyment. Visitors are reminded to follow all posted rules while using the splash pad, including that pets are not permitted within the splash pad area to maintain safety and sanitary conditions. The City remains committed to providing and maintaining high-quality recreational amenities that support resident wellbeing and enhance quality of life.

7. Needles Area Transit – Students Ride Free: Last month, Needles Area Transit (NAT) participated in the nationwide Dump the Pump Day campaign, reminding residents that as gas prices rise, the cost of getting around doesn't have to. The City also reminds the community that K-12 and Palo Verde College students ride NAT free year-round, including throughout the summer, with a valid student ID or class schedule. This program provides students with a safe, reliable, and air-conditioned transportation option while helping families save on transportation costs. A copy of the outreach flyer is attached for the Council's reference.

Page 4 of 5 ends

8. Community Events Calendar Now Live: The City’s new website now features a Community Events Calendar—a centralized location for community events, public meetings, and civic programs. Local organizations are invited to submit or update events through the City Clerk's Office to help keep the calendar current and inclusive. Residents can subscribe and sync the calendar to mobile devices for real-time updates, making it easier to stay informed about local events and civic activities.

9. City Commission Vacancies – Call for Applicants: The City of Needles is seeking interested residents to fill vacancies on the Needles Housing Commission and Parks and Recreation Commission. Commissioners play an important role in advising the City Council and helping shape the future of the community. Interested residents are encouraged to submit an application to the City Clerk's Office by 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 8, 2026. To apply or obtain additional information, please contact City Clerk Candace Clark at [email protected] or (760) 326-5700, ext. 133. Appointments are scheduled for consideration by the City Council at its July 14, 2026, meeting.

COMMUNITY EVENTS & RECOGNITION
I. Fourth of July Community Celebration: The City's Parks and Recreation Department, in partnership with Needles Elks Lodge #1608, will host the annual Celebrate Freedom 4th of July Pool Party on Saturday, July 4, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Needles Aquatics Center. The free community event will include open swim, games, contests, food, and traditional Fourth of July activities. Residents and visitors are encouraged to attend and celebrate Independence Day with the community.

II. Chamber of Commerce Fireworks Fundraiser: The Needles Area Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center has opened its annual TNT Fireworks stand with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, launching its Independence Day fundraiser through July 6. Proceeds support the Chamber’s year-round business advocacy, tourism promotion, visitor services, and community events. The City appreciates the Chamber’s continued partnership and support of this community tradition.

III. Assemblymember Jeff Gonzalez Town Hall: Residents are reminded that Assemblymember Jeff Gonzalez will host a Town Hall on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at El Garces. The Town Hall provides an opportunity for community members to engage directly with their State Assembly representative, discuss legislative priorities, and share feedback on issues affecting the Needles community. Staff encourages interested residents to attend. Additional event information, including the RSVP link (https://asmrc.org/cf/needlesrsvp) and a QR code for registration, is attached for the Council's reference.

IV. Saint Vincent de Paul Society – 5th Annual Fundraiser: The Saint Vincent de Paul Society of Needles will host its 5th Annual Fundraiser on October 3, 2026, at the Elks Lodge (1000 Lillyhill Dr., Needles, CA 92363).

The event celebrates the 100-year anniversary of Route 66 and the 250-year anniversary of the United States and encourages a patriotic dress theme.

The evening begins at 5:00 p.m. with a no-host bar and silent auction,

Page 5 of 5 ends

followed by dinner at 6:00 p.m. and announcements from 7:00–8:00 p.m.

Tickets are $75 per person or $600 for a table of eight and may be purchased at 839 Front Street, Needles, or by calling 760-326-4420. The organization is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and all proceeds support neighbors in need.

1. OHMV FOX26 FEATURE

2. OPERATION DRY WATER NATIONAL AWARNESS

4. FIREWORK ADVISORY

5. WETIP ANONYMOUS REPORTING PROGRAM

7. STUDENTS RIDE FREE-NAT
I. AQUATIC CENTER JULY FOURTH EVENT
II. CHAMBER FIREWORKS FUNDRAISER
III. ASSEMBLYMEMBER TOWN HALL
IV. ST. VICENT FUNDRAISER

Page 1 of 5 ends

MEMORANDUM
TO: HONORABLE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FROM: PATRICK J. MARTINEZ, CITY MANAGER
SUBJECT: WEEKLY MEMORANDUM
DATE: June 26, 2026
Major Accomplishments This Week
Economic Development
• Officially launched California's first Off-Highway Motor Vehicle (OHMV) Pilot Program connecting downtown to Bureau of Land Management trail systems. • Released the first installment of the City's Live • Work • Play economic development campaign.

Federal & State Partnerships
• Hosted a federal partnership visit with the Office of U.S. Senator Adam Schiff to discuss infrastructure, healthcare, housing, and economic development priorities.
• Received legislative recognition from Assemblymember Jeff Gonzalez highlighting the OHMV Pilot Program and AB 1756.

Tourism & Community Branding
• Featured in the official Visit California Passport to California Route 66 Centennial publication.
• Advanced improvements to the City's Route 66 gateway signage and branding. • Received regional and national media recognition promoting Needles as a premier outdoor recreation and tourism destination.

Community & Quality of Life
• Continued expanding recreation programming through the Morning Water Exercise program.
• Strengthened community partnerships, including the Chamber of Commerce Fireworks Fundraiser, Summer Meal Program, and Fourth of July community events.

Page 2 of 5 ends

1. OHMV Pilot Program Ribbon Cutting: This week, the City of Needles officially launched its Off-Highway Motor Vehicle (OHMV) Pilot Program with a ribbon cutting ceremony attended by City officials, project partners, community members, and local businesses. The event marked the culmination of years of planning, public outreach, partner coordination, and implementation. The event also celebrated Needles as the only city in California with a designated OHMV route network connecting riders directly to surrounding Bureau of Land Management trail systems. The program supports the City Council's goals of promoting economic development, expanding recreational opportunities, strengthening tourism, and enhancing partnerships that benefit the community.

2. Legislative Update: Assemblymember Jeff Gonzalez featured the City of Needles' OHMV Pilot Program in this week's official legislative newsletter. The newsletter highlights the City's launch of the pilot program and notes Assemblymember Gonzalez's AB 1756, which would extend the pilot program.

This is another example of the positive regional and statewide recognition the City is receiving for its economic development and recreation initiatives.

3. OHMV Program Media Recognition: The launch of the City's Off-Highway Motor Vehicle (OHMV) Pilot Program generated regional and national media coverage. Following the ribbon cutting, Mayor Janet Jernigan participated in an interview with FOX26 News discussing the program's anticipated economic impact and benefits to the community. The story is scheduled to air during the station's Sunday 10:00 p.m. newscast and will be published earlier that day on the FOX26 News website. In addition, the program was featured by UTV Guide, a national off-road industry publication, which recognized Needles as the first city in California to establish a designated OHMV route network connecting the community directly to surrounding Bureau of Land Management trail systems.

This earned media coverage advances the City Council's strategic goals of promoting economic development, strengthening tourism, and increasing statewide and national awareness of Needles as a premier outdoor recreation destination.

4. Federal Partnership Visit: On June 26, the City of Needles welcomed James DeLoera, Jr., from the Office of U.S. Senator Adam Schiff for a federal partnership briefing and community tour. City staff highlighted recent accomplishments, strategic priorities, and federal funding opportunities while showcasing key community assets, including Colorado River Medical Center, the Housing Authority, Historic Route 66, the Colorado River waterfront, the OffHighway Motor Vehicle (OHMV) Pilot Program, and major economic development sites. Discussions focused on rural healthcare, workforce housing, infrastructure investment, water reliability, tourism, and strengthening federal partnerships. The visit reinforced the City's commitment to building relationships that support long-term investment and economic growth.

5. Live • Work • Play Campaign: The City has launched the first installment of its Live • Work • Play economic development campaign, developed in partnership with Tripepi Smith. The inaugural "Play" video highlights Needles' outdoor recreation, the Colorado River, Historic Route 66, and the Off-Highway Motor Vehicle (OHMV) Pilot Program, reinforcing the City Council's commitment to

Page 3 of 5 ends

tourism and economic development. The three-part campaign is designed to promote Needles as a destination to play, live, and work, supporting tourism, attracting new residents, and encouraging private investment. The City appreciates the employees and community partners who helped showcase Needles and its many opportunities.

6. Route 66 Centennial Passport Feature: The City of Needles has been featured in the official Visit California Passport to California Route 66, a statewide visitor guide developed to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Mother Road. The guide highlights Needles as a gateway community along Historic Route 66 and showcases local lodging and tourism assets for travelers exploring California's Route 66 corridor. This statewide recognition supports the City Council's ongoing efforts to promote tourism, celebrate the Route 66 Centennial, and position Needles as a premier destination for visitors traveling the historic Mother Road.

7. Gateway Signage Improvements: Staff is advancing enhancements to the City's gateway signage as part of the City Council's ongoing commitment to community branding, tourism, and economic development. The proposed improvements will strengthen the City's identity as the Gateway to California while creating a more welcoming first impression for residents and visitors traveling along Historic Route 66. These enhancements complement the Council's broader investments in Route 66 Centennial initiatives, community beautification, and destination marketing.

8. Needles Featured for Quality of Life and Homeownership: The City of Needles was recently featured in an online travel and lifestyle publication highlighting the community's unique combination of outdoor recreation, historic character, and attainable homeownership opportunities. The article recognized Needles for its median home sale price of approximately $156,000 and showcased many of the community's signature assets, including the Colorado River, Historic Route 66, El Garces, the Needles Regional Museum, Rivers Edge Golf Course, and access to surrounding public lands. This positive thirdparty recognition supports the City Council's ongoing economic development, tourism, and community branding efforts by increasing awareness of Needles as an attractive place to live, work, play, and invest.

9. Tourism Promotion Initiative: As the City Council continues to prioritize tourism and economic development, the City appreciates the collaborative efforts of Mayor Janet Jernigan and Wagon Wheel Restaurant in developing an updated visitor brochure showcasing Needles' lodging, restaurants, recreational opportunities, attractions, and community amenities. The brochure serves as a valuable resource for visitors while encouraging them to explore the community, extend their stay, and support local businesses. This collaborative effort reflects the strong partnership between the City and the local business community to promote Needles as a premier destination along Historic Route 66 and the Colorado River.

Page 4 of 5 ends

10.Recreation Feature of the Week – Morning Water Exercise: The Needles Municipal Aquatics Center's Morning Water Exercise program is a popular recreational offering, providing residents with a low-impact workout that promotes cardiovascular health, strength, flexibility, and overall wellness.

Classes are offered Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. The program is designed for participants of all fitness levels. Morning Water Exercise reflects the City's ongoing commitment to providing quality recreational opportunities that enhance the health and well-being of the community.

11.Chamber of Commerce Fireworks Fundraiser: The Needles Area Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center has launched its annual TNT Fireworks fundraiser, with the stand operating June 28 through July 6 at the Shell Gas Station. The fundraiser will officially open with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Monday, June 29, 2026, at 2:00 p.m., marking the beginning of the Independence Day season and another year of community partnership.

Proceeds from the fundraiser support the Chamber's year-round business advocacy, tourism promotion, visitor services, and community events. The City appreciates the Chamber's continued partnership and the many volunteers whose dedication helps make this longstanding community tradition a success.

12.Summer Meal Program: Needles Unified School District has launched its Summer Meal Program, providing free weekly meal distributions every Wednesday through July 29, 2026. Parents, guardians, and children may pick up meal bags containing five breakfasts and five lunches at seven locations throughout the community. Staff is sharing this information to help connect residents with available community resources, consistent with the City Council's goal of supporting community partnerships and enhancing quality of life for Needles families.

13.Mosquito and Vector Control Awareness: As summer temperatures increase, the City is reminding residents to take proactive steps to reduce mosquito breeding by eliminating standing water around their homes, maintaining swimming pools and ornamental ponds, and properly storing containers that can collect water. Residents who observe neglected green pools or other mosquito concerns are encouraged to contact the San Bernardino County Department of Public Health's Mosquito and Vector Control Program for courtesy inspections and assistance. The program also provides free mosquito fish for ornamental ponds and conducts disease surveillance to help protect public health. The informational brochure is available on the City's website and social media channels.

14.Community Events Calendar Now Live: The City’s new website now features a Community Events Calendar—a centralized location for community events, civic meetings, and community programs. Local organizations are invited to submit or update events through the City Clerk's Office to help keep the calendar current and inclusive. Residents can subscribe and sync the calendar to mobile devices for real-time updates, making it easier to stay informed and engaged.

Page 5 of 5 ends

COMMUNITY EVENTS & RECOGNITION
I. Needles Eagles Aerie 2599 Sponsors Free Swim Admission for Children:

Needles Eagles Aerie 2599 will host the Swim With an Eagle event on Saturday, June 27, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Needles City Aquatics Center. Through the generosity of Needles Eagles Aerie 2599, admission for children will be free. Residents are encouraged to attend this family-friendly community event.

II. City Hall Closed for Independence Day: City Hall will be closed on Friday, July 3, 2026, in observance of the Independence Day holiday. Regular business hours will resume on Monday, July 6, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. During the closure, residents with urgent matters may call 760-326-5700, where the City's after-hours answering service will route calls to the appropriate City personnel. A public notice has been posted at the entrance to City Hall informing residents of the holiday closure.

III. Fourth of July Community Celebration: The City's Parks and Recreation Department, in partnership with Needles Elks Lodge #1608, will host the annual Celebrate Freedom 4th of July Pool Party on Saturday, July 4, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Needles Aquatics Center. The free, family-friendly event will feature open swim, relay races, games, contests, food, the return of the Miss Freedom and Mr. Firecracker contests, and the annual treasure dive. Staff encourages residents and visitors to join the community in celebrating Independence Day. This event supports the City Council's goals of enhancing quality of life, fostering community engagement, and expanding recreational opportunities through strong community partnerships.

IV. RCC Community Rummage Sale Donations: The River Communities Coalition (RCC) is currently accepting donations for its upcoming Community Rummage Sale, with proceeds supporting programs and services that benefit communities throughout the Colorado River region. RCC is seeking donations of furniture, household items, clothing, books, toys, electronics, tools, and medical equipment, with pickup and drop-off options available for community members. The City appreciates RCC's continued commitment to serving local residents and encourages those with gently used items to consider supporting this community initiative.

1. OHMV RIBBON CUTTING

2. LEGISLATIVE UPDATE
WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE DISTRICT?
Team Gonzalez joined the City of Needles to celebrate the kickoff of the Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Pilot Program! Needles launched this initiative to create designated routes‚ signage and educational information for Off-Highway Vehicles to operate on city streets.

Assemblyman Gonzalez’s bill‚ AB 1756 would extend this program for residents and visitors to enjoy the program for years to come!

3. OHMV MEDIA RECOGNITION

4. FEDERAL PARTNERSHIP VISIT

6. CENTENNIAL PASSPORT FEATURE

7. NEEDLES GATEWAY SIGNAGE

8. QUALITY OF LIFE

9. TOURISM PROMOTION

10. MORNING WATER EXERCISE

11. CHAMBER FIREWORKS FUNDRAISER

12. SUMMER MEAL PROGRAM

13. MOSQUITO AWARENESS
I. EAGLES POOL PARTY
II. CITYHALL CLOSURE
III. FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION
IV. RUMMAGE SALE RCC

Needles City CouncilJuly 14, 2026

Needles City Council
July 14, 2026