Ridgecrest City Council
January 17, 2024

Agendas are available on the City Website
https://www.ridgecrest-ca.gov/council-agendas
Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority
AGENDA
January 17, 2024
Closed Session 5:30 p.m.

Regular Session 6:00 p.m.

City Hall, Council Chambers
100 100 West California Avenue
Ridgecrest CA 93555
Ricca Charlon, CMC
City Clerk
[email protected]
(760) 499-5002
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you are a disabled person and you need a disability-related modification or accommodation to participate in the meeting, please contact Ricca Charlon at (760) 499-5002. Requests must be made as early as possible and at least one full business day before the start of the meeting.

Watch meetings on-line:

All of our meetings are streamed live at https://ridgecrest-ca.gov/369/Watch or on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/cityofridgecrest/live and are also available for playback after the meeting.

Call in for public comments:

To participate with verbal comments, please call (760) 499-5010. This phone line will allow only one caller at a time, so if the line is busy, please continue to dial. We will be allowing a 20-30 second delay between callers to give time for media delays and callers to dial in. If you wish to comment on multiple items you will need to call in as each item is presented.

CITY COUNCIL
Eric A. Bruen, Mayor
Solomon P. Rajaratnam, Mayor Pro-Tem
Kyle Blades, Vice Mayor
L. Scott Hayman, Council Member
John ‘Skip’ Gorman, Council Member
Ron Strand, City Manager
Keith Lemieux, City Attorney
Martin Koczanowicz, City Attorney
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100 W. CALIFORNIA AVE. | RIDGECREST, CA 93555
Phone 760.499.5000 | Fax 760.499.1520
www.ridgecrest-ca.gov

NOTICE AND CALL OF A SPECIAL CLOSED SESSION MEETING OF THE

RIDGECREST CITY COUNCIL / SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY /

HOUSING AUTHORITY / FINANCING AUTHORITY

TO THE MEMBERS OF THE RIDGECREST CITY COUNCIL / SUCCESSOR

REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY / HOUSING AUTHORITY / FINANCING AUTHORITY, PUBLIC AND CITY CLERK:

PUBLIC NOTICE that a SPECIAL CLOSED SESSION MEETING of the Ridgecrest City Council/Successor Redevelopment Agency/Housing Authority/Financing Authority is hereby called on:

Wednesday, January 17, 2024 @ 5:30 p.m.

City Council Chambers
100 W. California Avenue
Ridgecrest, California
Said SPECIAL CLOSED SESSION MEETING shall be for the purpose of:

CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNCIL:

Conference with Legal Counsel - Anticipated Litigation (GC § 54956.9) - One case Dated: January 10, 2024
Eric A. Bruen, Mayor / Chair
ATTEST:

Ricca Charlon, City Clerk
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RIDGECREST CITY COUNCIL

SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY

FINANCING AUTHORITY

HOUSING AUTHORITY

AGENDA
Wednesday, January 17, 2024 Closed Session – 5:30 p.m.

Regular Session – 6:00 p.m.

CALL TO ORDER - Roll call

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

PUBLIC COMMENT ON CLOSED SESSION

CLOSED SESSION - CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNCIL
Conference with Legal Counsel - Anticipated Litigation (GC § 54956.9) - One case

REGULAR SESSION
• Pledge Of Allegiance
• Invocation

ATTORNEY REPORT OUT OF CLOSED SESSION

PRESENTATIONS

1. Life Saving Awards – Sergeant Hallmark, Officer R. Smith, Officer C. Rinaldi Chief Scott PUBLIC COMMENT OF ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA - Persons wishing to address the Council on matters that are within the Council’s jurisdiction and DO NOT ALREADY APPEAR ON THE AGENDA, may do so at this time.

COUNCIL ANNOUNCEMENTS/DIRECTION
CONSENT CALENDAR – All Matters Listed Under The Consent Calendar Are To Be Considered Routine And Enacted By One Motion Unless Pulled By A Council Member Or A Member Of The Public.

2. Proposed Action To Approve Draft Minutes Of The Ridgecrest City Council Regular Meeting Dated December 20, 2023 Charlon

3. Approve A Resolution Of The City Of Ridgecrest City Council Scheduling The Date Of The Annual Unmet Transit Needs Public Hearing And Authorizing The City Clerk To Advertise The Hearing Smith

4. A Resolution Setting A Public Hearing To Determine Whether The Public Necessity, Health, Safety Or Welfare Requires The Formation Of An Underground Utility District On West Las Flores Avenue, Between North Mahan Street To North Down Street And On North Downs Street, Between West Las Flores Ave To West Church Avenue Reed

DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS

5. Appointment Of Committee Members To Two (2) Committees – Existing Measure V And Newly Formed Measure P Charlon

6. Discussion Regarding The Board Of The Indian Wells Valley Groundwater Authority (IWVGA) Hayman

7. A Resolution Of The Ridgecrest City Council Approving An Increase To Employee Cafeteria Rates Freese

AGENDA - CITY COUNCIL / SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY / FINANCING AUTHORITY / HOUSING AUTHORITY REGULAR – January 17, 2024

ORDINANCES

8. Introduction And First Reading Of An Ordinance Of The City Council Of The City Of Ridgecrest Adding Chapter 4 To The Ridgecrest Municipal Code Regarding Use Of Military Equipment Capt. Dampier

COMMITTEE REPORTS
Finance Committee
Members: Mayor Eric A. Bruen and Scott Hayman
Meeting: 2nd Tuesday each month at 5:30 p.m.

Location: City Hall Council Chambers
➢ Report from 1/9/24
Ridgecrest Area Convention and Visitor Bureau (RACVB)
Members: Solomon Rajaratnam and Megan McKenzie (staff)
Meeting: 4th Wednesday each month at 9:00 a.m.

Location: California Welcome Center
➢ Next meeting 01/24/2024
Infrastructure Committee
Members: Solomon Rajaratnam and Kyle Blades
Meeting: 4th Thursday each month at 5:00 p.m.

Location: City Hall Council Chambers
➢ Next meeting 1/25/24
City Organization and Services Committee (‘City Org’)
Members: Mayor Eric A. Bruen and Skip Gorman
Meeting: 1st Thursday each month at 5:30 p.m.

Location: City Hall Council Chambers
➢ Next meeting 2/1/24
Economic Development Committee
Members: Kyle Blades and Solomon Rajaratnam
Meeting: 1st Monday of the month @ 5:15 p.m.

Location: City Hall Council Chambers
➢ Next meeting 2/5/24
Parks, Recreation, and Quality of Life Committee
Members: Mayor Eric A. Bruen and Skip Gorman
Meeting: 1st Tuesday each month at 5:30 p.m.

Location: Kerr McGee Center Meeting Rooms
➢ Next meeting 2/6/24

OTHER COMMITTEES, BOARDS, OR COMMISSIONS

CITY MANAGER REPORT

FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

MAYOR AND COUNCIL COMMENTS

ADJOURNMENT
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Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority

STAFF REPORT
SUBJECT: Proposed Action To Approve Draft Minutes Of The Ridgecrest City Council Regular Meeting Dated December 20, 2023
PRESENTED BY: Ricca Charlon, City Clerk
SUMMARY:

Draft Minutes of the City Council / Successor Redevelopment Agency / Housing Authority / Financing Authority Regular Meeting Dated December 20, 2023 FISCAL IMPACT: None
ACTION REQUESTED: Approve minutes
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION: Action as requested
Submitted by: Ricca Charlon Action Date: Jan. 17, 2024
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RIDGECREST CITY COUNCIL

SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY

FINANCING AUTHORITY

HOUSING AUTHORITY

DRAFT MINUTES
Wednesday, December 20, 2023 Closed Session – 4:30 p.m.

Regular Session – 6:00 p.m.

This meeting was recorded and will be on file in the Office of the City Clerk for a certain period of time from date of approval by the Ridgecrest City Successor Agency/Financing Authority/Housing Authority. Meetings are recorded solely for the purpose of preparation of minutes.

ROLL CALL – 4:30 p.m.

Council Present: Mayor Eric A. Bruen; Mayor Pro-Tem Solomon P. Rajaratnam; Vice Mayor Kyle Blades; Council Member Skip Gorman; Council Member L. Scott Hayman

Absent: None
Staff Present: City Attorney M. Koczanowicz (WebEx) open & closed session; City Attorney K.

Lemieux (WebEx) closed session; City Manager Strand; City Clerk Charlon; Chief Scott; Public Works Director Reed; Finance Director Freese APPROVAL OF AGENDA - Motion To Approve Agenda – Blades - Hayman 5 Ayes NOTE: The vote is displayed in bold below each item. For example, Blades-Rajaratnam denotes Council Member Blades made the motion and Council Member Rajaratnam seconded the motion.

Ayes, Noes, Absents, Abstentions follow.

PUBLIC COMMENT ON CLOSED SESSION - None

CLOSED SESSION - CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNCIL
Conference with Legal Counsel - Anticipated Litigation (GC § 54956.9) - two cases Conference with Legal Counsel - Existing Litigation (GC Sec. 54956.9) Mojave Pistachios, LLC v Indian Wells Valley Water District, et al.

Orange County Superior Court Case No. 30-2021-01187275-CU-OR-CJC California Government Code Section 54957 Subpart (b)
PUBLIC EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE EVALUATION - City Attorney
REGULAR SESSION – 6:12 p.m.

ATTORNEY REPORT OUT OF CLOSED SESSION – unanimous denial of Ocampo claim; no other reportable action
PUBLIC COMMENT OF ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA – R. Blackwell; R. Catlin; M. Neel

COUNCIL ANNOUNCEMENTS/DIRECTION

CONSENT CALENDAR

1. Proposed Action To Approve Draft Minutes Of The Ridgecrest City Council Regular Meeting Dated December 6, 2023 Charlon

DRAFT MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL / SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY / FINANCING AUTHORITY / HOUSING AUTHORITY REGULAR – December 20, 2023

2. Review And Approve Recognized Obligation Payment Schedule (ROPS) 2024-25 And Administrative Budget For Fiscal Year 2024-25 Of The Successor Agency To The Ridgecrest Redevelopment Agency And Approval Of Resolution Freese
Motion To Approve Consent Calendar – Rajaratnam - Blades 5 Ayes

DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS

3. Discussion Regarding The Board Of The Indian Wells Valley Groundwater Authority (IWVGA) Hayman
• Public comment – M. Neel

4. A Resolution Of The Ridgecrest City Council Approving Increased Appropriations Of Unallocated General Fund Reserves In The Amount Of $83,163.00 For The Construction Of The Splash Pad Drainage Infrastructure Improvement Project Wegener • Pulled by staff due to bid process issues

5. A Resolution To Amend A Professional Services Agreement With Willdan Engineering Inc. For $32,000.00 To Provide Additional Design For The Extended Project Limits For The Bowman Channel Between S. Norma St. And S. China Lake Blvd. Reed • Public comment – None
Motion To Approve Item 5 – Blades - Hayman 5 Ayes

6. A Resolution Of The Ridgecrest City Council Approving Increased Appropriations For Intersection Reconstruction On La Mirage St. And Palm Drive For $100,532.44 As Submitted By Lyles Utility Construction LLC., And Allocate Funds For A 10% Contingency. A Maximum Total Of Up To $110,585.68; And Authorize The City Manager, Ronald Strand, To Execute All Agreements To Construct The Project Reed
• Public comment – None
Motion To Approve Item 6 with Resolution to reflect today’s date – Blades - Hayman 5 Ayes

7. A Resolution To Accept The Base Bid (Sch. A+B) As Submitted By Contractor To Be Named.

Allocate ARPA, Clean Cal, & Any Additional Funds If Necessary For The Base Bid, And Up To An Amount To Be Named For A Ten Percent (10%) Construction Contingency. A Maximum Total Of Up To Amount To Be Named. Award A Construction Contract To Contractor To Be Named To Construct The Clean California Leroy Jackson Park Improvement Project In The Amount Of Amount To Be Named, And Authorize The City Manager, Ronald Strand, To Execute The Contract Reed
From Supplemental Agenda: A Resolution To Accept The Base Bid (Sch. A+B) As Submitted By Griffith Company; Allocate Clean California, American Rescue Plan Act, & Unallocated General Fund Reserves For The Base Bid, And Up To Three Hundred And Seventy-Two Thousand Four Hundred And Fifteen Dollars And Fifty Cents ($372,415.50) For A Ten Percent (10%) Construction Contingency. A Maximum Contract Total Of Up To Four Million Ninety-Six Thousand Five Hundred And Seventy Dollars And Fifty Cents ($4,096,570.50). Award A Construction Contract To Griffith Company To Construct The Clean California Leroy Jackson Park Improvement Project; And Amend A Professional Services Agreement With Willdan Engineering In The Amount Of One-Hundred And Thirty Thousand Dollars ($130,000.00), And Authorize The City Manager, Ronald Strand, To Execute The Contract And Amendment • Public comment – None
Motion To Approve Item 7 – Hayman - Rajaratnam 5 Ayes

DRAFT MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL / SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY / FINANCING AUTHORITY / HOUSING AUTHORITY REGULAR – December 20, 2023

8. Proposed Approval For A New Salary Schedule For The Police Chief Position Strand • Public comment – None
Motion To Approve Item 8 – Blades - Rajaratnam 5 Ayes

COMMITTEE REPORTS
City Organization and Services Committee (‘City Org’)
Members: Mayor Eric A. Bruen and Skip Gorman
Meeting: 1st Thursday each month at 5:30 p.m.

Location: City Hall Council Chambers
➢ Report from 12/07/23 – Canceled
Finance Committee
Members: Mayor Eric A. Bruen and Scott Hayman
Meeting: 2nd Tuesday each month at 5:30 p.m.

Location: City Hall Council Chambers
➢ Report from 12/12/23
Infrastructure Committee
Members: Solomon Rajaratnam and Kyle Blades
Meeting: 4th Thursday each month at 5:00 p.m.

Location: City Hall Council Chambers
➢ Next meeting TBD due to holiday
Economic Development Committee
Members: Kyle Blades and Solomon Rajaratnam
Meeting: 1st Monday of the month @ 5:15 p.m.

Location: City Hall Council Chambers
➢ Next meeting TBD due to holiday
Parks, Recreation, and Quality of Life Committee
Members: Mayor Eric A. Bruen and Skip Gorman
Meeting: 1st Tuesday each month at 5:30 p.m.

Location: Kerr McGee Center Meeting Rooms
➢ Next meeting TBD due to holiday
Ridgecrest Area Convention and Visitor Bureau (RACVB)
Members: Solomon Rajaratnam and Megan McKenzie (staff)
Meeting: 4th Wednesday each month at 9:00 a.m.

Location: California Welcome Center
➢ Next meeting 01/24/2024

OTHER COMMITTEES, BOARDS, OR COMMISSIONS

CITY MANAGER REPORT
• WWTP @ 60% design, anticipate full design by 3rd quarter of 2024 • Pool at 75% design and hope to be under construction by summer time 2024

FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

MAYOR AND COUNCIL COMMENTS
ADJOURNMENT – 8:10 p.m.

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Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority

STAFF REPORT
SUBJECT: Approve A Resolution Of The City Of Ridgecrest City Council Scheduling The Date Of The Annual Unmet Transit Needs Public Hearing And Authorizing The City Clerk To Advertise The Hearing
PRESENTED BY: Christopher Smith, Transit Services Coordinator SUMMARY:

The Transportation Development Act of 1971 (TDA), as amended, provides for the disbursement of funds from the Local Transportation Fund for various eligible transportation uses. The funds are distributed by the Kern Council of Governments (KCOG), in its capacity as the Regional Transportation Planning Agency. An eligible claimant wishing to receive TDA funding through KCOG must conduct an annual review of the transit needs of individuals and groups in the community.

This year’s submittal of the Public Hearing documentation is due to Kern Council of Government by the end of April 2024. Subsequently, a public hearing must be held before the end of April 2024. Since the public hearing must be duly noticed for thirty days prior to the public hearing date, staff is requesting that the hearing be scheduled for the Council Meeting of March 20, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers.

FISCAL IMPACT: Allows the Transit Division of Public Works to continue receiving Transportation Development Act funding from Kern Council of Governments.

ACTION REQUESTED:

Approve A Resolution Of The City Of Ridgecrest City Council Scheduling The Date Of The Annual Unmet Transit Needs Public Hearing And Authorizing The City Clerk To Advertise The Hearing
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION:

Action as requested.

Submitted by: Chris Smith Action Date: January 17, 2024 (Revised Jan2019)
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Resolution No. 22-

RESOLUTION NO. 24-Xx

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RIDGECREST

SETTING THE PUBLIC HEARING FOR UNMET TRANSIT NEEDS HEARING WHEREAS, The City of Ridgecrest receives Transportation Development Act funds for various transportation uses; and ,
WHEREAS, A public hearing must be held to determine if there are any “Unmet Needs that are Reasonable to Meet” in the public transportation system; and, WHEREAS, A Notice of Public Hearing must be published thirty days prior to the hearing date.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest does hereby set the public hearing for Unmet Transit Needs for March 20, 2024 at 6:00 pm in the City Council Chambers, approves the Notice of Public Hearing, and directs the City Clerk to publish the notice.

ADOPTED, AND APPROVED, this 17th day of January, 2024, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:

Eric A. Bruen, Mayor
ATTEST:

Ricca Charlon, City Clerk
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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT A PUBLIC HEARING WILL BE HELD BEFORE THE CITY OF RIDGECREST CITY COUNCIL IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBERS OF CITY HALL, 100 W. CALIFORNIA AVENUE, RIDGECREST, CALIFORNIA ON WEDNESDAY, MARCH 20, 2024, AT 6:00 P.M. OR AS SOON THEREAFTER AS THE MATTERS MAY BE HEARD.

UNDER CONSIDERATION WILL BE a public hearing to receive comments related to unmet and reasonable transit needs in the City of Ridgecrest and the surrounding county areas serviced by the Ridgecrest Transit System.

Kern Council of Governments (KernCOG) is required to define “unmet needs” and “reasonable to meet,” and has defined them by KernCOG Resolution 90-04.

Unmet needs: An unmet need exists if an individual or any age or physical condition is unable to transport him or herself due to deficiencies in the existing transportation system. Excluded are (1) those request for minor operational improvements, and (2) those improvements funded and scheduled for implementation in the following fiscal year.

Reasonable to meet:

A. Operational feasibility. The requested improvement must be safe to operate and there must be adequate roadways for transit vehicles.

B. Duplication of Service. The proposed services shall not duplicate other transit services.

C. Timing. The proposed service shall be in response to an existing, rather than a future need.

D. Service must meet the legally required farebox ratio (PUC Sections 99288.2, 99288.5 and CAC Sections 8833.2, 8833.5 with fares of similar service.

All interested persons are invited to attend and present testimony.

CITY OF RIDGECREST
Ricca Charlon, City Clerk
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Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority

STAFF REPORT
SUBJECT: A Resolution Setting A Public Hearing To Determine Whether The Public Necessity, Health, Safety Or Welfare Requires The Formation Of An Underground Utility District On West Las Flores Avenue, Between North Mahan Street To North Down Street And On North Downs Street, Between West Las Flores Ave To West Church Avenue PRESENTED BY: Travis Reed, Public Work Director
SUMMARY:

The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has an established regulation, known as Rule 20, which pertains to undergrounding of utility poles. Rule 20A projects are typically in areas of a community that are used most by the public and are completed by and paid for 100% by SCE. To qualify, the City Council must determine, after holding a public hearing on the subject, that undergrounding in the designated area is in the public interest for one or more of the following reasons:
• Undergrounding will avoid or eliminate an unusually heavy concentration of overhead electric facilities.
• The street, road, or right-of-way is extensively used by the public and carries a heavy volume of pedestrian or vehicular traffic.
• The street, road, or right‑of‑way is considered an arterial street or major collector as defined in the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research General Plan Guidelines.

In order to form an underground utility district, Chapter 16, Article III of the City of Ridgecrest Municipal Code requires a three-step process. The first step is for the City Council adopt a resolution calling for a public hearing to determine whether public health, safety or welfare requires undergrounding, with the City Clerk providing notice of the hearing to all affected property owners. The second required step is for the Council to hold a public hearing and adopt a resolution designating the area to be included in the district and determining that the removal of the aboveground facilities is necessary based on findings related to public health, safety, or general welfare.

As the third and final next step, the Council will be asked to establish a project schedule by resolution which identifies the date by which properties in an established undergrounding district must be ready to receive underground service and by which poles, overhead wires and associated overhead structures shall be removed. Once a district is formed, it becomes unlawful to construct or maintain aboveground facilities beyond the date established by the City for removal of such facilities.

Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority

STAFF REPORT
The proposed area for the Rule 20A project is approximately 2820 feet along Las Flores Ave and 4220 feet along Downs Street as shown on Attachment “A”. Shortly after the receipt of the City’s Resolution to establish the undergrounding district, SCE will begin the project design, followed by conversion work and removal of poles, which could last approximately two years.

Funding – Source: SCE Rule 20A Funds and City General Funds As a Rule 20A project, SCE will be responsible for 100% of the underground conversion costs for the designated area, including design, construction, and coordination with the property owners. Though there will be minimal direct costs to the City, there will be staff time required for project coordination with SCE.

Item Cost Funding
Source
SCE Design and Construction $3,005,756 Rule 20A
City Project Management Consultant $20,000 General Fund Environmental Impact:

The proposed action does not constitute a “project” under the California Environmental Quality Act, per the CEQA guideline definition.

FISCAL IMPACT: $20,000 for City Project Management Consultant services funded from City General Fund.

ACTION REQUESTED: Adopt a resolution calling for public hearing on the designation of the subject area
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION: Action as Requested
Submitted by: Travis Reed Action Date: Jan. 17, 2024
RESOLUTION NO. 24-Xx

A RESOLUTION SETTING A PUBLIC HEARING TO DETERMINE WHETHER THE

PUBLIC NECESSITY, HEALTH, SAFETY OR WELFARE REQUIRES THE

FORMATION OF AN UNDERGROUND UTILITY DISTRICT ON WEST LAS

FLORES AVENUE, BETWEEN NORTH MAHAN STREET TO NORTH DOWN

STREET AND ON NORTH DOWNS STREET, BETWEEN WEST LAS FLORES AVE

TO WEST CHURCH AVENUE
WHEREAS, prior to the creation of an underground utility district, the Ridgecrest City Council is required to hold a public hearing to ascertain whether the public health, safety, or welfare requires the removal of poles, overhead wires and associated overhead structures, and the underground installation of wires and facilities for supplying electric, communication, or similar or associated service, in any such district; and,
WHEREAS, it is proposed that an underground utility district be formed as shown on Exhibit “A”, a map entitled “LAS FLORES AVENUE AND DOWNS STREET UNDERGROUND UTILITY DISTRICT” and,
WHEREAS, the proposed underground utility district is proposed to be funded in whole through funding under Tariff Rule 20 of the California Public Utilities Commission.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED the Ridgecrest City Council resolves as follows:

1. Notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held on the February 21, 2024 beginning at the hour of 6:00 p.m., in the Council Chambers of the City of Ridgecrest,100 W California Ave., to ascertain whether the public health, safety, or welfare requires the removal of poles, overhead wires, and facilities to supply electric, communication and associated services in the district as shown on the attached exhibit map.

2. The City Clerk is hereby directed to notify all affected property owners as shown on the last equalized assessment rolls, and all affected utilities, by mailing a copy of this Resolution to such property owners and utilities concerned, at least ten (10) days prior to the date set for said hearing.

APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 17th day of January, 2024 by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:
________________________________
Eric A. Bruen, Mayor
ATTEST:

_______________________
Ricca Charlon
City Clerk
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CITY OF RIDGECREST

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, (or as soon thereafter as practicable) in the City of Ridgecrest, 100 W. California Ave., the City Council will conduct a public hearing on the following:

Ascertaining whether to designate a certain area of the City, generally described as West Las Flores Avenue, between North Mahan Street to North Down Street and on North Downs Street, between West Las Flores Ave to West Church Avenue, as a utility undergrounding district subject to CPUC Rule 20A funding and in accordance with Chapter 16, Article III of the Municipal Code.

Although it is not anticipated that any property within 300 feet radius will be directly impacted by this action, those desiring to be heard in favor of or in opposition to this item will be given an opportunity to do so during such hearing or by writing to the City Council at 100 W. California Ave., Ridgecrest, CA 93555 Attention: City Clerk. On any correspondence, please reference the hearing title and date. Materials related to this public hearing are available at City Hall, 100 W.

California Ave., Ridgecrest, CA 93555 during normal business hours.

Background Information
The City of Ridgecrest is developing a plan to underground overhead utilities and to remove the poles of limited amount of utility wires/poles using Rule 20A funds through Southern California Edison (SCE), and the City is embarking on the necessary process using available Rule 20A funding for the City of Ridgecrest.

The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has an established regulation, known as Rule 20, which pertains to undergrounding of utility poles. Rule 20A projects are typically in areas of a community that are used most by the public and are completed by and paid for in full by SCE. To qualify, the City Council must determine after holding a public hearing on the subject, that undergrounding in the designated area is in the public interest for one or more of the following reasons:
• Undergrounding will avoid or eliminate an unusually heavy concentration of overhead electric facilities.
• The street, road, or right-of-way is extensively used by the public and carries a heavy volume of pedestrian or vehicular traffic.
• The street, road, or right-of-way adjoins or passes through a civic area, public recreation area, or an area of unusual scenic interest to the public. • The street, road, or right‑of‑way is considered an arterial street or major collector as defined in the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research General Plan Guidelines.

In order to form an underground utility district, Chapter 16 of the Ridgecrest Municipal Code requires a multi-step process. The first step was completed at the January 17, 2024 Calling the Public Hearing City Council meeting, when the City Council adopted a resolution calling for this public hearing to determine whether public health, safety or welfare requires undergrounding, with the City Clerk providing notice of the hearing to all affected property owners.

This required action following the public hearing is the second step by which the City Council forms the undergrounding district by adoption of a resolution if it finds that the public health, safety or general welfare requires the removal of above-ground facilities. Once a district is formed it becomes unlawful to construct or maintain aboveground facilities beyond the date established by the City for removal of such facilities.

The proposed area for the Rule 20A project is approximately 2820 feet along Las Flores Ave and 4220 feet along Downs St. (Exhibit A). Shortly after the receipt of the City’s Resolution to establish the undergrounding district, SCE will begin the project design, followed by conversion work and removal of poles, which could last approximately two years.

Ricca Charlon, City Clerk
477-03-021
508-02-013

RIDGECREST
SENIOR

APARTMENTS
508-02-009 477-01-010
KERR McGEE

SPORTS COMPLEX

PARKING
508-02-008
APN
508-02-006
S.C.E.
508-02-007
S.C.E.
477-01-011
477-01-017
477-01-016
477-01-015
477-01-007

KERR MCGEE
YOUTH
SPORTS

COMPLEX
456-02-018 456-02-012 456-02-013 456-03-105 456-03-104 456-03-103 456-33-101 456-04-025 456-04-011 456-04-010 456-04-024 456-05-213 456-05-214 456-05-101 456-05-102
067-50-101
067-41-120
456-10-207 455-10-008
455-10-009
456-23-106
456-05-103
456-05-104
456-05-105
456-05-106
456-05-107
456-05-108
456-05-117
456-09-001
456-09-002
456-09-003
456-09-004
456-09-007 456-02-016
456-02-022 456-33-105 456-33-104 456-03-103
456-33-102
456-05-116
067-50-102
067-50-103
067-50-104
067-50-105
067-50-106
067-05-021
067-05-020
456-09-006
456-09-005
456-05-109
067-05-007
067-05-008
067-05-009
067-05-018
APN
477-03-024

CITY OF RIDGECREST

PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
100 W. CALIFORNIA AVENUE
RIDGECREST, CA. 93555
(760) 499-5000

CITY OF RIDGECREST
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA EDISON RULE 20 PROGRAM
374 POLI STREET, SUITE 101
VENTURA, CALIFORNIA 93001
(805) 653-6597

LAS FLORES AVENUE AND DOWNS STREET

UNDERGROUND UTILITY DISTRICT

DOWNS ST FROM CHURCH AVE TO LAS FLORES AVE AND

LAS FLORES AVE FROM MAHAN ST TO DOWNS ST

LAS FLORES AVE DOWNS ST MAHAN ST

CHURCH AVE

RIDGECREST AVE KERN AVE INYO ST MONO ST

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UNDERGROUND UTILITY

DISTRICT BOUNDARIES
EXHIBIT "A"
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Ridgecrest City Council
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STAFF REPORT
SUBJECT: Appointment Of Committee Members To Two (2) Committees – Existing Measure V And Newly Formed Measure P
PRESENTED BY: Ricca Charlon, City Clerk
SUMMARY: The coming of a new year has brought about the need for two (2) committees to start meeting to work on their respective Annual Reporting.

Measure V -
2023 committee members were:

Marshall ‘Chip’ Holloway – Mayor Bruen
Holly Staab – Kyle Blades
Vu Ngo – Solomon Rajaratnam
Chris Hill – Peggy Breeden
Nicole Harper – Scott Hayman
Members Holloway and Ngo will be resigning from the committee for 2024 calling for the need of new appointments for Bruen and Rajaratnam.

Members Staab & Hill have confirmed they will be continuing to serve.

Confirmation of Harper continuing to serve, or the need for a new appointment, was unknown at time of agenda posting.

The Measure V Committee’s first meeting is scheduled to be Monday, February 12, 2024 @ 5pm in the City Hall Conference Room B.

Measure P -
The formation of this new committee calls for the appointment of 5 committee members, one by each council member.

The Measure P Committee’s first meeting will be in March at a date/time TBD.

FISCAL IMPACT: None
ACTION REQUESTED: Nominate and approved member appointments CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION: Action as requested
Submitted by: Ricca Charlon Action Date: Jan. 17, 2024
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Ridgecrest City Council
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STAFF REPORT
SUBJECT: Discussion Regarding The Board Of The Indian Wells Valley Groundwater Authority (IWVGA)
PRESENTED BY:

L. Scott Hayman, City Council / IWVGA Representative
SUMMARY:

Report and discussion regarding Board meetings of the IWVGA. Including, Board discussion and consideration of issues of importance requiring action by the IWVGA.

FISCAL IMPACT: None
ACTION REQUESTED: Discuss
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION: Action as requested
Submitted by: Ricca Charlon Action Date: Jan. 17, 2024
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Ridgecrest City Council
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STAFF REPORT
SUBJECT: A Resolution Of The Ridgecrest City Council Approving An Increase To Employee Cafeteria Rates
PRESENTED BY: Cheri Freese, Finance Director
SUMMARY:

Demonstrating an unwavering commitment to offering competitive and comprehensive employee benefits, the City of Ridgecrest routinely reviews cafeteria rates to align with evolving market conditions and rising costs. Acknowledging the dynamic nature of healthcare expenses, our cafeteria rates have undergone adjustments over the years, emphasizing the municipality's dedication to balancing fiscal responsibility with employee well-being.

In the fiercely competitive employment landscape, where attracting and retaining skilled professionals is a priority, offering attractive employee benefits becomes crucial. Recent adjustments to benefits packages by organizations in our region highlight the necessity for the City of Ridgecrest to remain an employer of choice, necessitating cafeteria rates that align with current market standards.

Staff proposes a prudent 15% increase for Employee Plus 1 and Employee Plus Family plans, addressing the escalating healthcare costs while preserving the competitiveness of our benefits. This measured approach ensures fiscal responsibility without compromising employee satisfaction, as there will be no proposed increase for Employee Only plans since those employees do not see any out-of-pocket costs.

The proposed adjustment seamlessly aligns with prevailing market trends, recognizing the delicate balance required between fiscal responsibility and employee satisfaction. In today's highly competitive job market, maintaining a robust benefits package is imperative for the City of Ridgecrest to attract and retain top-tier talent. The recommended 15% increase not only addresses the financial needs of the cafeteria program but also minimizes its impact on employees, fostering continued satisfaction and support for the City's commitment to valuable benefits.

Moreover, the implementation of the proposed cafeteria rate increase presents an additional financial advantage for the City of Ridgecrest. This adjustment would elevate our cafeteria plan to bona fide status, exempting the City from the obligation to pay Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) overtime. With the estimated cost to the City projected at a minimal $1,729, this advantageous shift underscores the fiscal prudence of the proposed increase, showcasing its potential to enhance the City's financial stability and contribute to long-term budgetary efficiency.

FISCAL IMPACT: $1,729 – estimate based on average amount of FLSA overtime paid in FY23 ACTION REQUESTED: Approve the proposed 15% increase for Employee Plus 1 and Employee Plus Family cafeteria plans while maintaining the current rates for Employee Only plans and allow the Finance Director to make the necessary budget adjustments to allow for this increase.

CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION: Approve as requested.

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RESOLUTION NO. 24-XX

A RESOLUTION OF THE RIDGECREST CITY COUNCIL APPROVING

AN INCREASE TO EMPLOYEE CAFETERIA RATES
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest has duly adopted its annual budget per resolution; and,
WHEREAS, Resolution 23-32 spells out the circumstances whereby total fund appropriations may be, and can be, increased; and,
WHEREAS, the City of Ridgecrest routinely reviews cafeteria rates to align with evolving market conditions and rising costs; and,
WHEREAS, the proposed adjustment seamlessly aligns with prevailing market trends, recognizing the delicate balance required between fiscal responsibility and employee satisfaction; and,
WHEREAS, the recommended 15% increase not only addresses the financial needs of the cafeteria program but also minimizes its impact on employees, fostering continued satisfaction and support for the City's commitment to valuable benefits.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest approve a 15% increase for Employee Plus 1 and Employee Plus Family cafeteria plans while maintaining the current rates for Employee Only plans and allow the Finance Director to make the necessary budget adjustments to allow for this increase.

APPROVED AND ADOPTED, this 17th day of January 2024, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:

Eric A. Bruen, Mayor
ATTEST:

Ricca Charlon, CMC
City Clerk
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Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority

STAFF REPORT
SUBJECT: Introduction And First Reading Of An Ordinance Of The City Council Of The City Of Ridgecrest Adding Chapter 4 To The Ridgecrest Municipal Code Regarding Use Of Military Equipment
PRESENTED BY: Captain Justin Dampier, Ridgecrest Police Department BACKGROUND:

On September 30, 2021, Governor Newsom signed a series of eight (8) pieces of policing reform legislation aimed at increasing transparency around policing. AB 481 was one of those pieces of legislation. AB 481 was created to address transparency issues in the funding, acquisition, and use of law enforcement equipment that lawmakers have deemed to be “military equipment.” AB 481, codified at California Government Code Section(s) 7070 through 7075, requires law enforcement agencies to “commence a governing body approval process,” for the adoption of a military equipment use policy by ordinance, in a public forum, in order to continue the use of previously acquired “military equipment.” The bill also requires such approval (of the policy by ordinance), by the governing body in a public forum, before a law enforcement agency may fund, acquire, or use new “military equipment.” Moreover, the bill requires further public review and approval actions by the governing body, annually, to continue the use of “military equipment,” and requires the City to host annual community meetings regarding the agency’s use of “military equipment” under the bill. These requirements are more specifically outlined below.

If Council does not approve the policy via the adoption of the ordinance, then the Ridgecrest Police Department must cease the use of all equipment now defined as “military equipment.” Such would be detrimental to RPD and the safety of community members and officers alike.

The term “military equipment,” as used in the legislation, does not necessarily indicate equipment used by the military. Items deemed to be “military equipment,” include, but are not limited to equipment such as unmanned vehicles, command and control vehicles, armored vehicles, pepper balls, less lethal shotguns, and long-range acoustic devices. These types of equipment, as well as others considered “military equipment” under AB 481, are commonly used and employed by law enforcement agencies across the country to enhance community and officer safety.

The Ridgecrest Police Department, the Chief of Police or the authorized designee shall obtain approval from the governing body by way of an ordinance adopting the military equipment policy. As part of the approval process, the Chief of Police or designee, shall ensure the proposed military equipment policy is submitted to the governing body and is available on the department website at least 30 days prior to any public hearing concerning the military equipment (Government Code § 7071). The military equipment policy must be approved by the governing body prior to engaging in any of the following (Government Code § 7071):

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• Requesting military equipment made available pursuant to 10 USC § 2576a. • Seeking funds for military equipment, including but not limited to applying for a grant, soliciting or accepting private, local, state, or federal funds, in-kind donations, or other donations or transfers.
• Acquiring military equipment either permanently or temporarily, including by borrowing or leasing.
• Collaborating with another law enforcement agency in the deployment or other use of military equipment within the jurisdiction of this department.
• Using any new or existing military equipment for a purpose, in a manner, or by a person not previously approved by the governing body.
• Soliciting or responding to a proposal for, or entering into an agreement with, any other person or entity to seek funds for, apply to receive, acquire, use, or collaborate in the use of military equipment.
• Acquiring military equipment through any means not provided above. • Upon approval of a military equipment policy, the Chief of Police or the authorized designee should submit a military equipment report to the governing body for each type of military equipment approved within one year of approval, and annually thereafter for as long as the military equipment is available for use (Government Code § 7072).

The Chief of Police or the authorized designee should also make each annual military equipment report publicly available on the department website for as long as the military equipment is available for use.

The report shall include all information required by Government Code § 7072 for the preceding calendar year for each type of military equipment in department inventory.

Within 30 days of submitting and publicly releasing the annual report, the Department shall hold at least one well-publicized and conveniently located community engagement meeting, at which the Department should discuss the report and respond to public questions regarding the funding, acquisition, or use of military equipment.

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AB 481 Definition of Military Equipment
The Assembly Bill has designated the following categories of items as military equipment. The Ridgecrest Police Department has equipment that meets the criteria for 5 of the 15 categories (Equipment Categories 2, 5, 10, 12, and 14/highlighted below):
• Unmanned, remotely piloted, powered aerial or ground vehicles (Equipment Category 1) • Mine-resistant ambush-protected (MRAP) vehicles or armored personnel carriers (Equipment Category 2)
• High mobility multipurpose wheeled vehicles (HMMWV), two-and-one-half-ton trucks, fiveton trucks, or wheeled vehicles that have a breaching or entry apparatus attached (Equipment Category 3)
• Tracked armored vehicles that provide ballistic protection to their occupants (Equipment Category 4
• Command and control vehicles that are either built or modified to facilitate the operational control and direction of public safety units (Equipment Category 5) • Weaponized aircraft, vessels, or vehicles of any kind (Equipment Category 6) • Battering rams, slugs, and breaching apparatuses that are explosive in nature (Equipment Category 7)
• Firearms of .50 caliber or greater, excluding standard-issue shotguns (Equipment Category 8) • Ammunition of .50 caliber or greater, excluding standard-issue shotgun ammunition Equipment Category 9)
• Specialized firearms and ammunition of less than .50 caliber, including firearms and accessories identified as assault weapons in Penal Code § 30510 and Penal Code §30515, excluding standard-issue service weapons (Equipment Category 10) • Any firearm or firearm accessory that is designed to launch explosive projectiles (Equipment Category 11)
• Noise-flash diversionary devices (flashbangs), explosive breaching tools, tear gas, and pepper balls (Equipment Category 12)
• TASER® Shockwave, microwave weapons, water cannons, and long-range acoustic devices (Equipment Category 13)
• Kinetic energy weapons and munitions (Equipment Category 14) • Any other equipment as determined by a governing body or a state agency to require additional oversight (Equipment Category 15)
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Attachment “A”
Ridgecrest Police Department Policy # 707 – Military Equipment. This policy was developed by Lexipol to be in line with the requirements of AB-481.

Attachment “B”
Inventory of “Military Equipment” used and/or maintained by the Ridgecrest Police Department.

Attachment “C”
Proposed Military Equipment Use Ordinance.

Discussion
By its very nature, law enforcement is an increasingly difficult and dangerous job. History has shown that armed encounters between law enforcement officers in the United States and heavily armed, violent offenders can be traced back to the prohibition era of the 1920s. During this time, communities were impacted by offenders and organized crime groups who were often armed with automatic weapons, wearing body armor, and using military style tactics to commit offenses (e.g., bank robberies, shootings, etc.). Since that time, law enforcement officers continued encountering heavily armed individuals and groups who were willing to engage in armed confrontations. Traditional methods of law enforcement response placed officers and community members at risk, so new equipment and methods of response had to be developed.

In addition to increased contacts with heavily armed, violent offenders, high-profile international, state, and local incidents contributed to the evolution of law enforcement response and equipment.

While this is certainly not an exhaustive list, below are several incidents that led to changes in methods of response and equipment for law enforcement agencies in the United States, including RPD:
• Los Angeles, California: In the 1960s, the first Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Team was formed in response to several incidents involving snipers firing upon community members and officers during rioting.
• Munich, Germany: Multiple Israeli athletes were killed during a hostage taking in the Olympic Village during the 1972 Olympic Games in Munich, Germany. During a failed rescue attempt, 9 hostages were killed as the German Police were not trained or equipped to deal with such a sophisticated threat.

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• Hayward, California: In the mid-1970s, RPD officers responded to a call for service and were fired upon by a subject armed with a high-powered rifle. A 72-hour stand-off ensued after the subject barricaded himself inside his residence and RPD officers were not trained or equipped to deal with such a sophisticated threat. Some RPD officers were sent to retrieve their personal hunting rifles as they were not able to get close enough to the residence without being fired upon. This led to the creation of the RPD’s Special Response Unit (SRU). • Los Angeles, California: In 1997, two subjects, armed with high-powered rifles and body armor, robbed a bank in the North Hollywood neighborhood of Los Angeles. LAPD officers, armed only with pistols, revolvers, and shotguns, were considerably outmatched as the subjects were armed with AK-47 and AR-15 style rifles, which can defeat body armor. In total, nearly 2,000 rounds were fired, 12 LAPD officers were shot, 8 community members were shot, and both subjects were ultimately killed after LAPD officers retrieved rifles from a nearby firearms dealer. After this incident, every law enforcement agency in the United States moved to equip officers with carbine rifles.

In addition to these historical events, recent national events have highlighted the need to continually evaluate methods of response and to maintain “military equipment” in the RPD’s inventory, including the following:
• Buffalo, New York: A subject, armed with an AR-15 style rifle and wearing body armor, entered a supermarket and began shooting people in what law enforcement officials identified as a hate crime (all of the victims were members of the Black community). A total of 10 people were killed, including a retired police officer working as a security guard.

The retired police officer exchanged gunfire with the subject and was killed after rounds from his handgun failed to penetrate the subject’s ballistic vest. • Laguna Woods, California: A subject, armed with multiple firearms, entered a place of worship and shot multiple people, killing one and critically injuring 5 others in what law enforcement officials described as a “hate incident” (all of the victims were members of the AAPI community).
• Uvalde, Texas: A subject, armed with an AR-15 style rifle, shot his grandmother, then drove to an elementary school where he shot multiple students and school staff members in one of the deadliest school shootings in United States history. In total, 19 students and 2 teachers were killed, and 17 others were critically wounded. The law enforcement response is being investigated by the Department of Justice and has sparked debate regarding methods of response and “military equipment.”
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According to ABC News, 11 mass shootings took place in the United States during the weekend of June 3 – 5, 2022, including shootings in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (3 killed, 11 wounded), Chattanooga, Tennessee (3 killed, 11 wounded), Socorro, Texas (3 killed), and Phoenix, Arizona (1 killed, 8 wounded). According to The Gun Violence Archive, there have been 247 mass shootings, or shootings where at least 4 people were killed or wounded, in the United States as of June 6, 2022.

According to a study published by the FBI in May 2022, there were 61 active shooter events in the United States in 2021 (a 52.5% increase from 2022 and a 96.8% increase from 2017).

Now, perhaps more than ever, law enforcement officers must have access to equipment that will allow them to perform their duties safely and to address sophisticated threats like those highlighted in the examples above. Much of the equipment listed in AB 481 and included in the RPD’s inventory is to address some of the critical incidents our community members expect us to safely resolve, such as:
• High-risk offender apprehension
• Barricaded subjects
• Hostage rescue
• Dignitary protection
• Crowd control
• Active shooter response
At the same time, it is critically important that a balance is struck between providing law enforcement officers with the equipment they need and the need to ensure accountability for its use. It is incumbent upon law enforcement agencies to develop appropriate policies, procedures, and training to ensure such equipment is being used properly.

The RPD’s equipment inventory (Attachment B) is governed by policies and procedures and can only be used by RPD officers who have met all training requirements. It should be noted that much of the military equipment listed in AB 481 has never been in RPD’s inventory nor has RPD sought to acquire it. These categories include:
• Category 3 (Humvees, two and one-half-ton trucks, five-ton trucks, or wheeled vehicles that have a breaching or entry apparatus attached) • Category 4 (Tracked armored vehicles that provide ballistic protection to their occupants and utilize a tracked system instead of wheels for forward motion) • Category 6 (Weaponized aircraft, vessels, or vehicles of any kind.) • Category 8 (Firearms of .50 caliber or greater. Standard issue shotguns excluded.) Ridgecrest City Council
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• Category 9 (Ammunition of .50 caliber or greater. Standard issue shotgun ammunition is excluded.)
• Category 11 (Any firearm or firearm accessory that is designed to launch explosive projectiles.)
• Category 13 (Taser Shockwave, microwave weapons, water cannons, and the LongRange Acoustic Device (LRAD).

FISCAL IMPACT: None. All items used, maintained, and/or requested, have previously been budgeted for.

ACTION REQUESTED: Conduct 1
st Reading of Proposed Ordinance by title only and schedule 2nd reading and adoption for the next regular council meeting.

CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION: Action as requested
Submitted by: Captain Justin Dampier Action Date: Jan.17th, 2024 This Page Intentionally Left Blank
ORDINANCE NO. 24 - 01

ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RIDGECREST ADDING CHAPTER 4 TO THE RIDGECREST MUNICIPAL CODE

REGARDING USE OF MILITARY EQUIPMENT

RECITALS
WHEREAS, on September 30, 2021, Governor Gavin Newsom signed into law Assembly Bill 481, relating to the use of military equipment by law enforcement agencies; and,
WHEREAS, Assembly Bill 481, codified at California Government Code sections 7070 through 7075, requires law enforcement agencies to obtain approval of the applicable governing body, by an ordinance adopting a “military equipment” use policy at a regular meeting held pursuant to open meeting laws prior to taking certain actions relating to the funding, acquisition, or use of “military equipment”. The term “military equipment” is defined in California Government Code Section 7070; and, WHEREAS, AB 481 allows the City Council to approve funding, acquisition, or use of military equipment, within its jurisdiction only if it makes specified determinations, and, WHEREAS, The Ridgecrest Police Department Policy Manual, Policy 707, sets forth the military equipment use policy and meets all requirements of California Government Code Sections 7070- 7072, and,
WHEREAS, the Policy and Military Equipment List were displayed on the Ridgecrest Police Department website since November 27, 2023; and, WHEREAS, in the enactment of this ordinance, the City followed the guidelines adopted by the State of California and published in the California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Section 15000, et seq. and found this activity is not a “project” as defined by California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) because it is an organizational or administrative activity that will not result in direct or indirect physical changes in the environment.

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

SECTION 1. The foregoing Recitals are adopted as findings of the City Council as though set forth in fully within the body of this ordinance.

Resolution 24-01 Page 2 of 7
SECTION 2. Chapter 4, Article I of the Ridgecrest Municipal Code, as reserved, is hereby deleted in its entirety and replaced as follows:

ARTICLE I. - Military Equipment Use Policy.

Section 4-1. - Definitions
A. "City" means any department, agency, bureau, and/or subordinate division of the City of Ridgecrest.

B. “City Council” means the governing body that is the Ridgecrest City Council.

C. "Exigent Circumstances" means a law enforcement agency's good faith belief that an emergency involving the danger of, or imminent threat of death or serious physical injury to any person is occurring, has occurred, or is about to occur.

D. “Military Equipment” includes all the following:

1. Unmanned, remotely piloted, powered aerial or ground vehicles.

2. Mine-resistant ambush-protected (MRAP) vehicles or armored personnel carriers. However, police versions of standard consumer vehicles are specifically excluded from this subdivision.

3. High mobility multi-purpose wheeled vehicles (HMMWV), commonly referred to as Humvees, two and one-half-ton trucks, five-ton trucks, or wheeled vehicles that have a breaching or entry apparatus attached. However, unarmored allterrain vehicles (ATVs) and motorized dirt bikes are specifically excluded from this subdivision.

4. Tracked armored vehicles that provide ballistic protection to their occupants and utilize a tracked system instead of wheels for forward motion.

5. Command and control vehicles that are either built or modified to facilitate the operational control and direction of public safety units.

6. Weaponized aircraft, vessels, or vehicles of any kind.

7. Battering rams, slugs, and breaching apparatuses that are explosive in nature.

However, items designed to remove a lock, such as bolt cutters, or a handheld ram designed to be operated by one person, are specifically excluded from this subdivision.

8. Firearms of .50 caliber or greater. However, standard issue shotguns are specifically excluded from this subdivision.

Resolution 24-01 Page 3 of 7

9. Ammunition of .50 caliber or greater. However, standard issue shotgun ammunition is specifically excluded from this subdivision.

10. Specialized firearms and ammunition of less than .50 caliber, including assault weapons as defined in Sections 30510 and 30515 of the Penal Code, with exception of standard issue service weapons and ammunition of less than .50 caliber that are issued to officers, agents, or employees of a law enforcement agency or a state agency.

11. Any firearm or firearm accessory that is designed to launch explosive projectiles.

12. "Flashbang" grenades and explosive breaching tools, "tear gas," and "pepperballs," excluding standard, service-issued handheld pepper spray.

13. Taser Shockwave, microwave weapons, water cannons, and the Long Range Acoustic Device (LRAD).

14. The following projectile launch platforms and their associated munitions:
40mm projectile launchers, "bean bag," rubber bullet, and specialty impact munition (SIM) weapons.

15. Any other equipment as determined by a governing body or a state agency to require additional oversight.

16. Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) through (15), "Military Equipment" does not include general equipment not designated as prohibited or controlled by the federal Defense Logistics Agency.

E. “Military Equipment Use Policy” means Section #707 of the Ridgecrest Police Department Policy Manual.

F. “Police Department” means any division, section, bureau, employee, volunteer and/or contractor of the Ridgecrest Police Department.

G. "State agency" means the law enforcement division of every state office, officer, department, division, bureau, board, and commission or other state body or agency, except those agencies provided for in Article IV (except Section 20 thereof) or Article VI of the California Constitution.

H. "Type" means each item that shares the same manufacturer model number.

Resolution 24-01 Page 4 of 7
Section 4-2. - Military Equipment Use Policy Required Findings A. Based upon Recitals and all of the information received in consideration of the Military Equipment Use Policy the City Council determines and finds all the following:

1. The Military Equipment is necessary because there is no reasonable alternative that can achieve the same objective of officer and civilian safety.

2. The proposed Military Equipment Use Policy will safeguard the public's welfare, safety, civil rights, and civil liberties.

3. The equipment on the Military Equipment Inventory, is reasonably cost effective compared to available alternatives that can achieve the same objective of officer and civilian safety.

4. All of the requirements of Government Code Sections 7070-7073 have been met in preparation and adoption of this Policy.

Section 4-3. - Public Participation, annual review and amendments A. To facilitate public participation, Military Equipment Use Policy shall be made publicly available on the internet website of the Police Department for as long as the Military Equipment is available for use.

B. The City Council shall review this ordinance at least annually and vote on whether to renew it at a regular meeting held pursuant to the Ralph M. Brown Act (Chapter 9 (commencing with Section 54950) of Part 1 of Division 2 of Title 5 of the Government Code).

F. Any amendments to the Military Equipment List may be done by Resolution of the City Council, upon making all of the required findings in connection with any additional Military Equipment.

G. Any Amendments to the Military Use Policy shall be done through an Ordinance that meets all of the requirements of the Government Code Sections 7070-7073, or other applicable State Law at the time of such amendment.

Section 4-4. - Use of Military Equipment in Exigent Circumstances A. Notwithstanding the provisions of this Article, the Police Department may acquire, borrow and/or use Military Equipment in Exigent Circumstances without following the requirements of this code.

Resolution 24-01 Page 5 of 7
B. If the Police Department acquires, borrows, and/or uses Military Equipment in Exigent Circumstances, in accordance with this section, it must take all the following actions:

1. Provide written notice of that acquisition or use to the City Council within 30 days following the commencement of such Exigent Circumstance, unless such information is confidential or privileged under local, state or federal law.

2. If it is anticipated that the use will continue beyond the Exigent Circumstance, submit a proposed amended Military Equipment List and, if necessary due to the nature of the Military Equipment, an Amended Military Use Policy to the City Council within 90 days following the borrowing, acquisition and/or use, and receive approval, as applicable, from the City Council.

3. Include the Military Equipment in the Police Department’s next annual Military Equipment Report.

Section 4-5. - Reports on the Use of Military Equipment A. The Police Department shall submit to City Council an annual Military Equipment Report for each type of Military Equipment approved by the City Council within one year of approval, and annually thereafter for as long as the Military Equipment is available for use.

B. The Police Department shall also make each annual Military Equipment Report required by this section publicly available on its internet website for as long as the Military Equipment is available for use.

C. The annual Military Equipment Report shall, at a minimum, include the following information for the immediately preceding calendar year for each type of Military Equipment:

1. A summary of how the Military Equipment was used and the purpose of its use.

2. A summary of any complaints or concerns received concerning the Military Equipment.

3. The results of any internal audits, any information about violations of the Military Equipment Use Policy, and any actions taken in response.

Resolution 24-01 Page 6 of 7

4. The total annual cost for each type of Military Equipment, including acquisition, personnel, training, transportation, maintenance, storage, upgrade, and other ongoing costs, and from what source funds will be provided for the Military Equipment in the calendar year following submission of the annual Military Equipment Report.

5. The quantity possessed for each type of Military Equipment.

6. If the law enforcement agency intends to acquire additional Military Equipment in the next year, the quantity sought for each type of Military Equipment.

D. Within 30 days of submitting and publicly releasing an annual Military Equipment Report pursuant to this section, the Police Department shall hold at least one well-publicized and conveniently located community engagement meeting, at which the public may discuss and ask questions regarding the annual Military Equipment report and the law enforcement agency's funding, acquisition, or use of Military Equipment.

E. The City Council shall determine, based on the annual Military Equipment Report submitted pursuant to this section, whether each type of Military Equipment identified in that report has complied with the standards for approval set forth in this code and the Military Equipment Use Policy. If the City Council determines that a type of Military Equipment identified in that annual Military Equipment Report has not complied with the standards for approval, the City Council shall either disapprove a renewal of the authorization for that type of Military Equipment or require modifications to the Military Equipment Use Policy in a manner that will resolve the lack of compliance.

SECTION 3. The Council hereby affirms all provisions set forth of Ridgecrest Police Department Policy 707.

SECTION 4. The City Manager is directed to execute all documents and to perform all other acts necessary to implement this Ordinance.

Resolution 24-01 Page 7 of 7
SECTION 5. If any provision, section, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase of this ordinance, or any part thereof, or the application thereof to any person or circumstance is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by a court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance, or any part thereof, or its application to other persons or circumstances. The City Council hereby declares that it would have passed and adopted each provision, section, paragraph, subparagraph, sentence, clause or phrase thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, paragraphs, subparagraphs, sentences, clauses or phrases, or the application thereof to any person or circumstance, be declared invalid or unconstitutional.

SECTION 6. This ordinance shall become effective on the thirtieth (30th) day following its passage and adoption hereof.

PASSED AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RIDGECREST this day of , 2024 by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

APPROVED:
________________________________
Eric A. Bruen, Mayor
ATTEST:
____________________________
Ricca Charlon, City Clerk
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Policy
707
Ridgecrest Police Department
Policy Manual
Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2023/11/21, All Rights Reserved.

Published with permission by Ridgecrest Police Department ***DRAFT*** Military Equipment - 1 Military Equipment
707.1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE
The purpose of this policy is to comply with provisions Government Code § 7070; Government Code § 7071; Government Code § 7072, in obtaining the approval, acquisition, and meeting the reporting and use requirements with regard to military equipment. 707.1.1 DEFINITIONS
Definitions related to this policy include (Government Code § 7070):

Governing body – The elected or appointed body that oversees the Department.

Military equipment – Includes but is not limited to the following:
• Unmanned, remotely piloted, powered aerial or ground vehicles. • Mine-resistant ambush-protected (MRAP) vehicles or armored personnel carriers. • High mobility multipurpose wheeled vehicles (HMMWV), two-and-one-half-ton trucks, five-ton trucks, or wheeled vehicles that have a breaching or entry apparatus attached. • Tracked armored vehicles that provide ballistic protection to their occupants. • Command and control vehicles that are either built or modified to facilitate the operational control and direction of public safety units. • Weaponized aircraft, vessels, or vehicles of any kind. • Battering rams, slugs, and breaching apparatuses that are explosive in nature. This does not include a handheld, one-person ram.
• Firearms and ammunition of_.50 caliber or greater, excluding standard-issue shotguns and standard-issue shotgun ammunition.
• Specialized firearms and ammunition of less than_.50 caliber, including firearms and accessories identified as assault weapons in Penal Code § 30510 and Penal Code § 30515, with the exception of standard-issue firearms.
• Any firearm or firearm accessory that is designed to launch explosive projectiles. • Noise-flash diversionary devices and explosive breaching tools. • Munitions containing tear gas or OC, excluding standard, service-issued handheld pepper spray.
• TASER® Shockwave, microwave weapons, water cannons, and long-range acoustic devices (LRADs).
• Kinetic energy weapons and munitions.
• Any other equipment as determined by a governing body or a state agency to require additional oversight.

Ridgecrest Police Department
Policy Manual
Military Equipment
Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2023/11/21, All Rights Reserved.

Published with permission by Ridgecrest Police Department ***DRAFT*** Military Equipment - 2 707.2 POLICY
It is the policy of the Ridgecrest Police Department that members of this department comply with the provisions of Government Code § 7071 with respect to military equipment. 707.3 MILITARY EQUIPMENT COORDINATOR
The Chief of Police should designate a member of this department to act as the military equipment coordinator. The responsibilities of the military equipment coordinator include but are not limited to:
(a) Acting as liaison to the governing body for matters related to the requirements of this policy.
(b) Identifying department equipment that qualifies as military equipment in the current possession of the Department, or the equipment the Department intends to acquire that requires approval by the governing body.
(c) Conducting an inventory of all military equipment at least annually. (d) Collaborating with any allied agency that may use military equipment within the jurisdiction of Ridgecrest Police Department (Government Code § 7071). (e) Preparing for, scheduling, and coordinating the annual community engagement meeting to include:

1. Publicizing the details of the meeting.

2. Preparing for public questions regarding the department’s funding, acquisition, and use of equipment.
(f) Preparing the annual military equipment report for submission to the Chief of Police and ensuring that the report is made available on the department website (Government Code § 7072).
(g) Establishing the procedure for a person to register a complaint or concern, or how that person may submit a question about the use of a type of military equipment, and how the Department will respond in a timely manner.
707.4 MILITARY EQUIPMENT INVENTORY
The following constitutes a list of qualifying equipment for the Department:
[Insert attachment here]
707.5 APPROVAL
The Chief of Police or the authorized designee shall obtain approval from the governing body by way of an ordinance adopting the military equipment policy. As part of the approval process, the Chief of Police or the authorized designee shall ensure the proposed military equipment policy is submitted to the governing body and is available on the department website at least 30 days prior to any public hearing concerning the military equipment at issue (Government Code § 7071(b)).

The military equipment policy must be approved by the governing body prior to engaging in any of the following (Government Code § 7071(a)):

Ridgecrest Police Department
Policy Manual
Military Equipment
Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2023/11/21, All Rights Reserved.

Published with permission by Ridgecrest Police Department ***DRAFT*** Military Equipment - 3 (a) Requesting military equipment made available pursuant to 10 USC § 2576a. (b) Seeking funds for military equipment, including but not limited to applying for a grant, soliciting or accepting private, local, state, or federal funds, in-kind donations, or other donations or transfers.
(c) Acquiring military equipment either permanently or temporarily, including by borrowing or leasing.
(d) Collaborating with another law enforcement agency in the deployment or other use of military equipment within the jurisdiction of this department. (e) Using any new or existing military equipment for a purpose, in a manner, or by a person not previously approved by the governing body.
(f) Soliciting or responding to a proposal for, or entering into an agreement with, any other person or entity to seek funds for, apply to receive, acquire, use, or collaborate in the use of military equipment.
(g) Acquiring military equipment through any means not provided above. 707.6 COORDINATION WITH OTHER JURISDICTIONS
Military equipment should not be used by any other law enforcement agency or member in this jurisdiction unless the military equipment is approved for use in accordance with this policy. 707.7 ANNUAL REPORT
Upon approval of a military equipment policy, the Chief of Police or the authorized designee shall submit a military equipment report to the governing body for each type of military equipment approved within one year of approval, and annually thereafter for as long as the military equipment is available for use (Government Code § 7072).

The Chief of Police or the authorized designee shall also make each annual military equipment report publicly available on the department website for as long as the military equipment is available for use. The report shall include all information required by Government Code § 7072 for the preceding calendar year for each type of military equipment in department inventory. 707.8 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Within 30 days of submitting and publicly releasing the annual report, the Department shall hold at least one well-publicized and conveniently located community engagement meeting, at which the Department should discuss the report and respond to public questions regarding the funding, acquisition, or use of military equipment (Government Code § 7072(b)).

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Ridgecrest Police Department Military Equipment Inventory Ridgecrest Police Department
Military Equipment Inventory
Attachment B:

The following constitutes a list of qualifying specialized equipment currently available for use by the Ridgecrest Police Department, deemed to be “Military Equipment” under Section 7070 of the California Government Code:

Armored Vehicles (Govt Code 7070(c)(2)): Commercially-produced, wheeled armored personnel vehicles utilized for law enforcement purposes. • Armored Personnel Carrier: Ballistic engineered Armored Rescue Vehicle (ARV). Utilized during high-risk tactical enforcement operations, officer rescues, civilian rescues, and vehicleborne intervention. Additional deployments are used during criminal unrest and riots. Rescue vehicles provide ballistic safety during containment and apprehension of armed violent suspects, to include active shooters and hostage rescue. Rescue vehicles provide numerous safety capabilities for law enforcement, victim rescues, and overall community safety. The Armored Rescue Vehicle is also four-wheel drive and may be deployed in a natural disaster for medical aid or community rescue missions. Additionally, the ARV may be deployed as displays for community outreach events.
• Authorized Use: The use of armored vehicles shall only be authorized by a watch commander or WST commander, based on the specific circumstances of a given critical incident. Armored vehicles shall be used only by officers trained in their deployment and in a manner consistent with Department policy and training. The Ridgecrest Police Department shall only utilize this equipment for official law enforcement purposes pursuant to State and Federal Laws.

Current RPD Inventory: ** Purchased and delivery is expected in December, 2023.

One (1) Lenco “BEARCAT” armored rescue vehicle that provides its occupants with ballistic protection beyond ballistic shields or personal body armor, offering greater safety to community members and officers during high-risk incidents. The BEARCAT is a smaller armored rescue vehicle which provides greater mobility in tight city streets. The BEARCAT is capable of seating a driver and seven (7) passengers.

Cost: $337,879 Expected Lifespan: 15-20 years Annual Maintenance: $2,500 Command and Control Vehicles Built or Modified to Facilitate the Operational Control and Direction of Public Safety (Govt Code 7070 (c)(5)): Command and control vehicles are built in various platforms to include half ton pickup chassis, SUV, van, trailers, and RV style configurations. They are designed with additional communication abilities, computers, white boards, lighting, generators, and critical supplies.
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Ridgecrest Police Department Military Equipment Inventory These vehicles are built to serve as mobile command posts for coordination of police, fire, and medical response during law enforcement operations, fires, natural disasters, mutual aid incidents, community events, and other public safety incidents.

Current RPD Inventory:

One (1) 2007 “Weekend Warrior” 5th Wheel Trailer outfitted as a mobile command post.

Cost: $0 (Grant) Expected Lifespan: 3-5 more years Annual Maintenance: $ 500 One (1) 2023 Toyota “Tundra” 4WD Truck outfitted as a mobile command post and/or critical incident response vehicle. This vehicle is assigned to the Investigations Sergeant and used as a normal “Detective Vehicle” for day-to-day assignments in addition to being available as a mobile command post/critical incident response.

Cost: $80,000 Expected Lifespan: 10-15 years Annual Maintenance: $1,200 Specialized Firearms and Ammunition, including Assault Weapons Defined Under PC 30510 & PC 30515 (Govt Code 7070(c)(10)): Several weapons listed below are included on this inventory in the interest of transparency, however, may be exempt under Govt’s Code 7070 as “standard issue service weapons”:
• AR-style Rifles (Patrol Rifles): Light weight, magazine fed, gas operated semi-automatic rifle using 5.56mm/.223cal ammunition are authorized for use by trained officers. The Patrol Rifle is utilized for increased accuracy and precision shooting at longer distances. • Colt SMG and Schmiesser MP40 Submachine Guns: Magazine fed, semi, or auto fire rifle, which fires 9mm handgun ammunition. This weapon is only assigned to trained WST or Range personnel. An SMG is utilized for increased accuracy and precision shooting at longer distances. • Description and Equipment Capabilities: The Ridgecrest Police Department equips its officers with Patrol Rifles to address the risks posed to the public and department members by violent and sometimes well-armed persons. These firearms are to be used as precision weapons to address a threat with more precision and/or at greater distances than a handgun. • Authorized Use/Purpose: The carrying and use of these weapons shall only be by employees trained in their use, and in a manner consistent with Department policy and training. It is the policy of RPD to utilize firearms only for official law enforcement purposes, applicable department policies, and pursuant to state and federal laws. Applicable department policies include but are not limited to RPD 300 Use of Force and RPD 305 Firearms:
• The use of deadly force is justified only when the officer reasonably believes it is necessary in the following circumstances (Penal Code 835a):
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Ridgecrest Police Department Military Equipment Inventory ▪ An officer may use deadly force to protect him/herself or others from what he/she reasonably believes is an imminent threat of death or serious bodily injury to the officer or another person.
▪ An officer may use deadly force to apprehend a fleeing person for any felony that threatened or resulted in death or serious bodily injury, if the officer reasonably believes that the person will cause serious bodily injury to another person unless apprehended. • Training Requirements: Use of Patrol Rifles and other specified firearms by personnel is authorized as long as the user has completed approved training and has maintained qualification requirements:
▪ Prior to using a Patrol Rifle (AR-15 style firearm) on duty, officers must attend a POST approved rifle class.
▪ Officers equipped with Patrol Rifles must maintain their proficiency at the quarterly range qualifications.

Current RPD Inventory:
“Flashbang” Grenades and Explosive Breaching Tools (Govt Code 7070(c)(12)):
• Light Sound Diversionary Device (LSDD, “Flashbang”): Diversionary devices used to minimize risk to all parties through the temporary distraction or disorientation of armed and violent suspects who pose a significant danger to officers and the community. The effects of an LSDD reduce a suspect’s reactionary capabilities by causing momentary disorientation, which can create a tactical advantage for involved officers. LSDD’s are hand delivered, sight deployed, and generally deployed on the exterior of structures. LSDD’s can be utilized to humanely deter aggressive dogs who pose a threat to officers or to attempt to illicit a response from suspects who may have barricaded in a structure or vehicle. Other examples include waking up a sleeping suspect, or prompting a suspect to communicate with officers. • Authorized Use: The use of these devices shall only be authorized by a watch commander or WST commander, based on the specific circumstances of a given critical incident. They shall be Manufacturer Model Caliber Quantity Initial Cost Today's Cost Maintenance Lifespan Bushmaster XM15 223/5.56 33 Unknown $ 800.00 Estim $0 to $50 15-20 yrs Colt AR-15 223/5.56 2 Unknown $ 1,100.00 Estim $0 to $50 15-20 yrs Colt Sporter Match-Hbar 223/5.56 1 Seized $ 2,500.00 Estim $0 to $50 15-20 yrs DPMS Panther RFA2-AP4A 223/5.56 5 Unknown $ 800.00 Estim $0 to $50 15-20 yrs DPMS Panther A-15 Oracle RFA3-OC 223/5.56 7 475 $ 500.00 Estim $0 to $50 15-20 yrs Sig-Sauer M400 223/5.56 2 Unknown $ 850.00 Estim $0 to $50 15-20 yrs Colt SMG 9mm 3 Unknown $ 1,500.00 Estim $0 to $50 15-20 yrs S&W M&P-15 223/5.56 1 Seized $ 815.00 Estim $0 to $50 15-20 yrs Aero Precision M4E1-T 223/5.56 10 1100 $ 1,100.00 Estim $0 to $50 15-20 yrs Harrington & Richard M-14 308 1 Seized Unknown Estim $0 to $50 Unk Schmiesser MP40 9mm 1 Donated Unknown N/A Unk
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Ridgecrest Police Department Military Equipment Inventory used only by employees trained in their use, and in a manner consistent with Department policy and training. LSDD’s may also be used in a training or demonstration environment when authorized and monitored by the WST commander.

Current RPD Inventory:
“Tear Gas” and “Pepper balls” (Govt Code 7070(c)(12)):
• Chemical Agents: Chlorobenzalmalononnitrile (CS) rapidly produces sensory irritation or disabling effects in humans, which typically disappear within a short time following termination of exposure. CS can be deployed through various means to include hand delivery and weapon launchable, such as 40mm and shotgun. Hand delivered chemical agents are typically delivered in a “burn safe” metal container to reduce fire hazard. CS is typically used during incidents where a suspect is barricaded in a structure or vehicle and is believed to be armed. CS may also be used in riot incidents to prevent violence and destruction of property. The discomfort caused by the chemical agent will typically cause the suspect to exit a structure or vehicle or dissuade a suspect from remaining in the area of the chemical agent, thus resulting in safer compliance.

Chloroacetophenone (CN) is similar to CS and is used/deployed in similar circumstances and manner as CS.
• MK-9 Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) Delivery System: The MK-9 features an easy to use trigger handle, is intended for use in crowd management and will deliver 14 short bursts of OC at an effective range of 18-20 ft. This 1.3% MC OC aerosol product utilizes a stream delivery method providing a target-specific, strong concentrated stream for greater standoff distances which allows greater officer safety in potentially violent encounters. This delivery system is Nonflammable / Electronic Discharge Weapon (EDW) safe (able to utilize Taser (EDW)). • Pepper Ball: Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) powder is incased in a plastic ball-shaped projectile which is propelled from a launcher powered by compressed air. The effects of a pepper ball are similar to the effects of pepper spray, typically characterized by temporary irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat. Discomfort may also be experienced at the point of impact. Pepper ball systems may be used in a variety of situations, including barricaded suspects, suspects exhibiting violent behavior, and instances of riotous or criminal behavior by suspects in a group. The use of pepper ball systems can be effective in stopping violent actions of a suspect on officers or members of the community.
• Authorized Use: The use of Tear Gas and PepperBall Systems shall only be authorized by the watch commander or WST commander, based on the specific circumstances of a given critical incident. They shall be used only by employees trained in their use, and in a manner consistent with Department policy and training. MK-9 deployment is authorized by any employee in a manner consistent with Department policy and training.

Manufacturer Model Quantity Cost Each Maint. Lifespan
Defense Technology Low Roll II 11-gr distraction device 5 $ 82.00 $0 5 years Defense Technology Distraction Device 12-gr reload 13 $ 43.00 $0 5 years Defense Technology Distraction Device Reloadable Body 2 $ 55.00 $0 5 years 5 | Page
Ridgecrest Police Department Military Equipment Inventory Current RPD Inventory:
40mm Projectile Launchers, “Bean Bag”,” Rubber Bullet, and Specialty Impact Munitions (Govt Code 7070(c)(14):
• Less-lethal 40mm Launcher: Munitions are configured for high and low impact. Munitions have the additional benefit as a barrier-round for breaking vehicle and residential glass so chemical agents can be deployed; these options include the Direct Impact OC and CS rounds, as well as the CS Ferret round. Wood baton rounds are typically utilized for breaking out glass. 40mm less lethal Exact Impact Sponge (Foam) rounds can be effective in disarming violent suspects, armed suspects, and subjects who are suicidal with minimal injury and risk to the person, law enforcement or the public. Less-lethal 37/38 mm launchers are also utilized in the same capacity and functions with a slightly smaller sized delivery system. • FN 303 Less-lethal Launcher: The FN 303 launcher is built from lightweight, rugged polymer and driven by a compressed CO2 air tank. This less-lethal launcher delivers increased accuracy and the fin-stabilized projectiles deliver optimum accuracy with maximum effectiveness and safety. Officers can quickly change from inert, marking, impact or irritant projectiles, with a clear view of the projectile type and remaining count in the magazine. • 12 gauge Less-lethal Shotgun: Utilized through an easily identifiable, less lethal shotgun with distinctive orange markings. The “bean bag” round is a small drag stabilized; pellet-filled munition made of high-density cloth. The “bean bag” is the predecessor to the 40mm less lethal, which has similar benefits as other less lethal platforms. • Authorized Use: The carrying and use of these weapon systems shall only be by employees trained in their use, and in a manner consistent with Department policy and training.

Current RPD Inventory:

Manufacturer Model Quantity Cost Each Maint. Lifespan
Fabrique National FN303 Pava/OC Pepper Projectiles 189 $ 7.00 $0 3 years Combined Tactical SystemsCN Smoke Canister Grenade 4 $ 26.00 $0 5 years Combined Tactical SystemsCS Smoke Canister Grenade 2 $ 26.00 $0 5 years Defense Technology CS Spocket Tactical Grenade 67 $ 32.00 $0 5 years Defense Technology 37/38mm CS Gas 2 $ 30.00 $0 5 years
Defense Technology 37/38mm CN Gas 2 $ 30.00 $0 5 years
Defense Technology MK-9 stream OC Aerosol 30 $ 80.00 $0 5 years Asset Type Manufacturer Model Qnty Initial Cost Each Replacement Maintenance Lifespan 12 Gauge Beanbag Shotgun Remington 870 2 Unknown $600 $0 to $25 15 yrs 40mm Less Lethal Launcher Defense Technology LMT 6 $1,400 $1,400 $0 to $50 15 yrs 37/38mm L/L Launcher Smith & Wesson 1 Unknown $700 $0 to $25 15 yrs FN 303 Launcher Fabrique Nationale FN3030 14 Donated $1,700 $0 to $100 Varies 6 | Page
Ridgecrest Police Department Military Equipment Inventory End of Inventory List
Manufacturer Model Quantity Cost Each Maint. Lifespan
Defense Technology 40mm Exact Impact Sponge Round 214 $ 32.00 $0 5 years Defense Technology 40mm Direct Impact OC 10 $ 35.00 $0 5 years Defense Technology 40mm Rubber Ball 10 $ 30.00 $0 5 years Combined Tactical Sys 40mm Foam Baton 100 $ 28.00 $0 5 years Combined Tactical Sys 12 Gauge Bean Bag Round 25 $ 8.00 $0 5 years Defense Technology 37/38mm Foam Baton 4 $ 27.00 $0 5 years Defense Technology 37/38mm Rubber Ball 4 $ 28.00 $0 5 years Defense Technology 37/38mm Sting Ball 4 $ 28.00 $0 5 years Fabrique National FN303 Less Lethal Impact Projectiles 69 $ 6.00 $0 3 years This Page Intentionally Left Blank