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
February 5, 2025
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
Travis Endicott, Mayor
Kyle Blades, Mayor Pro-Tem
Solomon P. Rajaratnam, Vice Mayor
L. Scott Hayman, Council Member
John ‘Skip’ Gorman, Council Member
Ron Strand, City Manager
Keith Lemieux, City Attorney
Martin Koczanowicz, City Attorney
This Page Intentionally Left Blank
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, February 5, 2025 @ 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 COUNSEL Potential Litigation GC Section 54956.9(c) – two cases
CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL Existing Litigation Gov Code Section 54956.9 One case - Wiknich v. Blades Kern County Superior Court Dated: January 30, 2025
Travis Endicott, Mayor / Chair
ATTEST:
Ricca Charlon, City Clerk
This Page Intentionally Left Blank
RIDGECREST CITY COUNCIL
SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
FINANCING AUTHORITY
HOUSING AUTHORITY
AGENDA
Wednesday, February 5, 2025 Closed Session – 5:30 p.m.
Regular Session – 6:00 p.m.
CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
CLOSED SESSION
CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL Potential Litigation GC Section 54956.9(c) – one case CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL Existing Litigation Gov Code Section 54956.9 One case - Wiknich v. Blades Kern County Superior Court
REGULAR SESSION
• Pledge Of Allegiance
• Invocation
ATTORNEY REPORT OUT OF CLOSED SESSION
PRESENTATIONS
Safely Surrendered Baby Awareness Proclamation Council
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.
1. Proposed Action To Approve Draft Minutes Of The Ridgecrest City Council Regular Meetings Dated December 18, 2024 & January 15, 2025 Charlon
DISCUSSION / ACTION ITEMS
2. Discussion Regarding The Possibility Of Dissolving The City Organization And Services Committee Along With Resolution Approval If Dissolved Charlon
3. Discussion Regarding Needed Appointments To Council Committees, Boards, And Commissions Charlon
PUBLIC HEARINGS
4. A Public Hearing And Resolution Approving The Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Annual Application Regarding The Kern County Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program Wegener
AGENDA - CITY COUNCIL / SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY / FINANCING AUTHORITY / HOUSING AUTHORITY REGULAR – February 5, 2025
COMMITTEE REPORTS**Committee Meeting dates are subject to change and will be announced on the City website
Economic Development Committee
Members: Kyle Blades and Solomon Rajaratnam
Meeting: 1st Monday of the month @ 5:15 p.m.
Location: City Hall Conference Room B, 1
st Floor
➢ Report from February 3, 2025
Finance Committee
Members: Solomon Rajaratnam and Scott Hayman
Meeting: 2nd Tuesday each month at 5:30 p.m.
Location: City Hall Conference Room B, 1
st Floor
➢ Next meeting February 11, 2025
Infrastructure Committee
Members: Mayor Endicott and Kyle Blades
Meeting: 4
th Thursday each month at 5:00 p.m.
Location: City Hall Conference Room B, 1
st Floor
➢ Report from January 23, 2025
Parks, Recreation, and Quality of Life Committee
Members: Mayor Endicott and Scott Hayman
Meeting: 1
st Tuesday each month at 5:30 p.m.
Location: City Hall Council Chambers
➢ Report from February 4, 2025
OTHER COMMITTEES, BOARDS, OR COMMISSIONS
CITY MANAGER REPORT
FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
MAYOR AND COUNCIL COMMENTS
ADJOURNMENT
A Proclamation of
The City of Ridgecrest, California
SAFELY SURRENDERED BABY
AWARENESS MONTH
WHEREAS, the Safely Surrendered Baby Law was created in 2001 with the intent to save the lives of newborn infants at risk of abandonment by encouraging parents or persons with lawful custody to safely surrender the infant within 72 hours of birth, with no questions asked; and,
WHEREAS, since 2006 the Safely Surrendered Baby Law has saved 103 infants in Kern County and placed in them loving homes; and,
WHEREAS, In Ridgecrest and throughout Kern County, a newborn baby can be safely surrendered into the hands of any hospital emergency room or Fire Station staff; and WHEREAS, The Safely Surrendered Baby Coalition is led by the Department of Human Services, and includes a group of dedicated individuals representing a long list of agencies, non-profits, hospitals, and stakeholders, including First Five Kern, the Kern County Fire Department, Bakersfield City Fire Department, Bakersfield Pregnancy Center, Right to Life Kern County, Adventist Health Hospitals, Clinica Sierra Vista, Kern Family Healthcare, Kern County Public Health, and Ridgecrest Regional Hospital.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED by the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest does hereby proclaim the month of February as Safely Surrendered Baby Awareness Month and encourages all Ridgecrest citizens to reach out and assist the Safely Surrender Baby Coalition with their endeavors.
Proclaimed this 5
th Day of February 2025
Travis Endicott
Mayor
Kyle Blades
Mayor Pro-Tem
Solomon P. Rajaratnam
Vice Mayor
L. Scott Hayman
Council Member
John ‘Skip’ Gorman
Council Member
This Page Intentionally Left Blank
1 This Page Intentionally Left Blank
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 Meetings Dated December 18, 2024 & January 15, 2025 PRESENTED BY: Ricca Charlon, City Clerk
SUMMARY:
Draft Minutes of the City Council / Successor Redevelopment Agency / Housing Authority / Financing Authority Regular Meetings Dated December 18, 2024 & January 15, 2025 FISCAL IMPACT: None
ACTION REQUESTED: Approve minutes
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION: Action as requested
Submitted by: Ricca Charlon Action Date: Feb. 5, 2025
This Page Intentionally Left Blank
RIDGECREST CITY COUNCIL
SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
FINANCING AUTHORITY
HOUSING AUTHORITY
DRAFT MINUTES
Wednesday, December 18, 2024 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 – 6:00 p.m.
Council Present: Mayor Eric A. Bruen; Mayor Pro-Tem Solomon P. Rajaratnam; Vice Mayor Kyle Blades; Council Member L. Scott Hayman; Council Member Skip Gorman; Mayor Elect Travis Endicott
Absent: None
Staff Present: City Attorney M. Koczanowicz; City Manager Strand; City Clerk Charlon; Chief Ysit; Acting Finance Director Brewton; PW Director Reed; P&R Director Wegener APPROVAL OF AGENDA – Attorney asked to add closed session to end of meeting. One case Motion To Approve Addition Gorman - Rajaratnam 5 Ayes
Motion To Approve Agenda as amended to add closed session to end – Blades - Rajaratnam 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 OF ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA - E. Edwards; R. Porter; J. Shermer; R. WestaLusk
COUNCIL ANNOUNCEMENTS/DIRECTION
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. Proposed Action To Approve Draft Minutes Of The Ridgecrest City Council Regular Meeting Dated December 4, 2024 Charlon
2. Proposed Action To Adopt A Resolution Of The Ridgecrest City Council Reciting The Facts Of The Consolidated General Municipal Election Held On Tuesday November 5, 2024 Declaring The Results And Such Other Matters As Provided By Law Charlon
3. A Resolution Of The Ridgecrest City Council Adopting The Updated City Of Ridgecrest Personnel Rules And Regulations Strand
4. Authorization For The City Manager, Ron Strand, To Sign The Notice Of Completion For The Leroy Jackson Tennis Courts Resurfacing Project; For The City Clerk To File The Notice Of Completion; And For City Staff To Release Retention In The Amount Of Thirty-Six Thousand Five Hundred Seventy-Eight Dollars And Sixty Cents ($36,578.60) To The Contractor, Supreme Courts Construction, Within Thirty (30) Days After Recordation Of The Notice Of Completion Wegener Motion To Approve Consent Calendar – Blades, Hayman – 5 Ayes
DRAFT MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL / SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY / FINANCING AUTHORITY / HOUSING AUTHORITY REGULAR – December 18, 2024
PRESENTATION
5. Presentation To Outgoing Mayor Bruen Staff
6. Administration And Presentation Of Certificates Of Election And Oaths Of Office To Newly Elected Mayor And Council Members Charlon
DISCUSSION / ACTION ITEMS
7. Nomination And Appointment Of Mayor Pro-Tempore And Vice Mayor Endicott
8. Discussion Regarding Needed Appointments To Council Committees, Boards, And Commissions Charlon
9. Discussion Regarding The Board Of The Indian Wells Valley Groundwater Authority (IWVGA) Hayman
COMMITTEE REPORTS
City Organization and Services Committee (‘City Org’)
Members: Mayor Eric A. Bruen and Skip Gorman
Meeting: 1
st Thursday each month at 5:30 p.m.
Location: City Hall Council Chambers
➢ Next meeting December 5, 2024 - canceled
Economic Development Committee
Members: Kyle Blades and Solomon Rajaratnam
Meeting: 1st Monday of the month @ 5:15 p.m.
Location: City Hall Conference Room B, 1
st Floor
➢ Next meeting January 6, 2025
Finance Committee
Members: Mayor Eric A. Bruen and Scott Hayman
Meeting: 2nd Tuesday each month at 5:30 p.m.
Location: City Hall Conference Room B, 1
st Floor
➢ Report from December 10, 2024
Infrastructure Committee
Members: Solomon Rajaratnam and Kyle Blades
Meeting: 4
th Thursday each month at 5:00 p.m.
Location: City Hall Conference Room B, 1
st Floor
➢ Next meeting December 26, 2024
Parks, Recreation, and Quality of Life Committee
Members: Mayor Eric A. Bruen and Skip Gorman
Meeting: 1
st Tuesday each month at 5:30 p.m.
Location: City Hall Council Chambers
➢ Next meeting January 7, 2025
Ridgecrest Area Convention and Visitor Bureau (RACVB)
Members: Solomon Rajaratnam and Jennifer Rickets (staff) Meeting: 4th Wednesday each month at 9:00 a.m.
Location: California Welcome Center
➢ Next meeting TBD
DRAFT MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL / SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY / FINANCING AUTHORITY / HOUSING AUTHORITY REGULAR – December 18, 2024
OTHER COMMITTEES, BOARDS, OR COMMISSIONS
CITY MANAGER REPORT
FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
MAYOR AND COUNCIL COMMENTS
CLOSED SESSION
CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – one case
Potential Litigation Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(4) REPORT OUT OF CLOSED SESSION – No reportable action
ADJOURNMENT 7:00 p.m.
This Page Intentionally Left Blank
RIDGECREST CITY COUNCIL
SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
FINANCING AUTHORITY
HOUSING AUTHORITY
DRAFT MINUTES
Wednesday, January 15, 2025 Closed Session – 5:00 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 – 5:00 p.m.
Council Present: Mayor Endicott; Mayor Pro-Tem Rajaratnam; Vice Mayor Blades; Council Member Hayman; Council Member Gorman
Absent: None
Staff Present: City Attorney M. Koczanowicz; City Manager Strand; City Clerk Charlon; Chief Ysit; Finance Director Brewton; PW Director Reed; P&R Director Wegener APPROVAL OF AGENDA – City Manager asked to move item 9 to be heard before item 4 Motion To Approve Agenda as amended to move item 9 – Hayman - Blades 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.
CLOSED SESSION
CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - Existing Litigation Gov Code Section 54956.9 Anderson v. COR, Lloyd; Kern County Superior Court Case # BCV-24-101979 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 REGULAR SESSION – 6:00 p.m.
ATTORNEY REPORT OUT OF CLOSED SESSION – No reportable action
PRESENTATIONS
Lifesaving Awards - Officer Coe And Officer Smith Chief Ysit PUBLIC COMMENT OF ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA - T. Rosa, E. Edwards, T. Chandler, M. Neel, J. Shermer, Katie, C. Williams, R. Porter,
COUNCIL ANNOUNCEMENTS/DIRECTION
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. A Resolution Of The Ridgecrest City Council Approving The Reestablishment Of An Accounting Supervisor Position To The Classification Plan Brewton
2. Proposed Approval For The Authorization Of The Extension Of The University Of California – Davis School Of Veterinary Medicine, Spay/ Neuter Grant Chief Ysit
DRAFT MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL / SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY / FINANCING AUTHORITY / HOUSING AUTHORITY REGULAR – January 15, 2025
3. Proposed Approval of Increased Appropriations to The Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Budget To Purchase Police Equipment Chief Ysit
Motion To Approve Consent Calendar Rajaratnam - Gorman 5 Ayes
DISCUSSION / ACTION ITEMS
4. Nomination And Appointment Of Mayor Pro-Tempore And Vice Mayor Charlon • Hayman nominated Blades for Mayor Pro-Tem
▪ Motion To Approve Hayman - Rajaratnam 5 Ayes
• Blades nominated Rajaratnam for Vice Mayor
▪ Motion To Approve Blades - Endicott 5 Ayes
5. Discussion Regarding Needed Appointments To Council Committees, Boards, And Commissions Charlon
6. Discussion Regarding The Board Of The Indian Wells Valley Groundwater Authority (IWVGA) Hayman
7. Approval Of Resolution To Increase Positions Within The Police Officer Classification From 32 Officers To 33 Officers Chief Ysit
Public Comment – None
Motion To Approve Item 7 Blades - Hayman 5 Ayes
8. Authorization To Enter Into A Five (5) Year Agreement With Lens Lock Inc. For FY26 Through FY30 For Body Worn Cameras (BWC), In-Car Video Cameras, Connectivity, Software, Installation, And CAD Integration. Authorization For Approval Of Appropriations In The FY25 Annual Budget To Purchase Connectivity Services Chief Ysit
Public Comment – None
Motion To Approve Item 8 Blades - Hayman 5 Ayes
9. Approving The Form And Authorizing The Execution Of Certain Lease Financing Documents In Connection With The Offering And Sale Of Certificates Of Participation Relating Thereto Finance The Cost Of Construction And Equipping A New Aquatics Facility And Authorizing And Directing Certain Actions With Respect Thereto Brewton
Public Comment - R. Porter, M. Richter
Motion To Approve item 9 Blades - Rajaratnam 5 Ayes
COMMITTEE REPORTS**Committee Meeting dates are subject to change and will be announced on the City website
City Organization and Services Committee (‘City Org’)
Members: Mayor Eric A. Bruen and Skip Gorman
Meeting: 1
st Thursday each month at 5:30 p.m.
Location: City Hall Council Chambers
➢ Next meeting February 6, 2025
DRAFT MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL / SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY / FINANCING AUTHORITY / HOUSING AUTHORITY REGULAR – January 15, 2025
Economic Development Committee
Members: Kyle Blades and Solomon Rajaratnam
Meeting: 1st Monday of the month @ 5:15 p.m.
Location: City Hall Conference Room B, 1
st Floor
➢ Report from January 6, 2025
Finance Committee
Members: Mayor Eric A. Bruen and Scott Hayman
Meeting: 2nd Tuesday each month at 5:30 p.m.
Location: City Hall Conference Room B, 1
st Floor
➢ Report from January 14, 2025
Infrastructure Committee
Members: Solomon Rajaratnam and Kyle Blades
Meeting: 4
th Thursday each month at 5:00 p.m.
Location: City Hall Conference Room B, 1
st Floor
➢ Next meeting January 23, 2025
Parks, Recreation, and Quality of Life Committee
Members: Mayor Eric A. Bruen and Skip Gorman
Meeting: 1
st Tuesday each month at 5:30 p.m.
Location: City Hall Council Chambers
➢ Next meeting February 4, 2025
Ridgecrest Area Convention and Visitor Bureau (RACVB)
Members: Solomon Rajaratnam and Jennifer Rickets (staff) Meeting: 4th Wednesday each month at 9:00 a.m.
Location: California Welcome Center
➢ Next meeting TBD no reporting to council .. moving to Economic development
OTHER COMMITTEES, BOARDS, OR COMMISSIONS
CITY MANAGER REPORT
FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
MAYOR AND COUNCIL COMMENTS
ADJOURNMENT – 9:22 p.m.
This Page Intentionally Left Blank
2 This Page Intentionally Left Blank
Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority
STAFF REPORT
SUBJECT: Discussion Regarding The Possibility Of Dissolving The City Organization And Services Committee Along With Resolution Approval If Dissolved PRESENTED BY: Ricca Charlon, City Clerk
SUMMARY:
City Council committees are established per Municipal Code §2-213 (previously §2-3.107) via resolution.
In 2013, via Resolution 13-75, all standing committees were eliminated.
In 2015, Resolution 15-09 reestablished three committees – Infrastructure, City Organization and Services (City Org), and Quality of Life.
Resolution 17-14 reestablished the Economic Development Committee.
Resolution 17-53 established the Finance Committee.
**All 4 above mentioned resolutions are attached for your reference.
The council mentioned at the Jan 15, 2025 meeting the desire to discuss the elimination of the City Org committee.
FISCAL IMPACT: None
ACTION REQUESTED: If after discussions are held, and if the Council decides to dissolve the City Org committee, approve resolution dissolving committee.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION: Action as requested
This Page Intentionally Left Blank
RESOLUTION NO. 25-Xx
A RESOLUTION OF THE RIDGECREST CITY COUNCIL ELIMINATING
THE CITY ORGANIZATION AND SERVICES COMMITTEE (CITY ORG) WHEREAS, City Council may, by resolution, create and eliminate standing committees pursuant to Municipal Code §2-213; and,
WHEREAS, the City Council, on February 5, 2025, held discussions regarding the elimination of the City Organization And Services Committee (City Org); and, WHEREAS, it was determined by the City Council to eliminate the City Org committee effective immediately.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest does hereby eliminate the City Organization And Services Committee (City Org).
APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 5
th day of February 2025, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Travis Endicott, Mayor
ATTEST:
Ricca Charlon
City Clerk
This Page Intentionally Left Blank
RESOLUTION NO. 13-75
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RIDGECREST
ELIMINATING STANDING COMMITTEES
1. PURPOSE AND SCOPE.
City may, by resolution, create and eliminate standing committees pursuant to Municipal Code section 2-3.107. This resolution (1) eliminates standing committees as set forth below.
2. FINDINGS.
The City Council finds, determines, and declares:
(a) That City's financial condition caused it to declare a financial emergency in 2012; (b) That City has combated said condition by, in part, cutting costs and City staff; (c) That preparation for, and attendance at, City's standing committees by remaining City staff takes valuable time from City's staff to perform other City duties; and (d) That other, less onerous options in accomplishing the standing committees' tasks exist and will be explored.
3. RESOLUTION.
Based on the foregoing findings, the City Council hereby resolves:
(a) That standing committees of City are hereby eliminated by rescinding City resolutions numbered 01-50 (Infrastructure Committee; City Organization Committee; Economic Development Committee; Quality of Life Committee; and Legislative Committee); 07-11 (Community Development Committee; City Organization and Services Committee; Parks, Recreation, and Quality of Life Committee; Infrastructure Committee as amended); and 05-43 (Arts Council); and 99-80.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 4th day of September, 2013, by the following vote.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
ATTEST:
Mayor Clark, Council Members Holloway, Sanders, and Acton None
None
One Vacancy
~Lo~ Daniel O. Clark, Mayor
- 1 -
This Page Intentionally Left Blank
RESOLUTION NO. 15-09
A RESOLUTION OF THE RIDGECREST CITY COUNCIL RESCINDING
RESOLUTION NO. 13-75 AND ESTABLISHING CERTAIN COUNCIL
STANDING COMMITTEES
WHEREAS, Ridgecrest Municipal Code section 2-3.107 provides that the Council shall establish such committees as are necessary and useful to aid in the administration of its affairs consisting of Council members, and WHEREAS, Resolution No. 13-75 adopted on September 4, 2013 abolished previous standing council committees due to financial emergency and staffing reductions, and
WHEREAS, the City Council has determined that the establishment of Council committees focusing on City Infrastructure, City Organization matters and financial services, and Quality of Life would be useful and necessary.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest California, that the following Council committees are hereby established:
• Infrastructure Committee
o The basic facilities, services, and installations under the jurisdiction of the Council needed for the functioning of the community, such as transportation, streets, utilities, wastewater, communications systems, water and power lines, and public institutions. • City Organization and Services Committee
o The administration of services supporting the community including City Manager projects, Financial Services, Police, Economic Development, and Planning. • Quality of Life Committee
o The facilities and services supporting quality of life in the community including Parks, Recreation, Senior Advisory Council, and Arts Council.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 21 st day of January, 2015 by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT
ATTEST:
Mayor Breeden, Council Members Sanders, Acton, Thomas, and Mower None
None
None
Peggy Breeden, Mayor
This Page Intentionally Left Blank
This Page Intentionally Left Blank
3 This Page Intentionally Left Blank
Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority
STAFF REPORT
SUBJECT: Discussion Regarding Needed Appointments To Council Committees, Boards, And Commissions
PRESENTED BY: Ricca L. Charlon – City Clerk
SUMMARY:
At the January 15th City Council meeting appointments to city council committees was started. The topic is coming back to council tonight to seat the remainder of the appointments. The committees listed below are still in need:
Each Council Member is to make a citizen nomination to serve on the following:
• Personnel Commission – Mayor Endicott
• Handicap Appeals Board – S. Hayman
• Construction Appeals Board – S. Hayman
Council Members also held discussions and decided who among them would like to serve on the following council committees. The appointees are listed below. • Finance Committee – Hayman & Rajaratnam
• Economic Development Committee – Blades & Rajaratnam
• Infrastructure Committee – Endicott & Blades
• Parks, Recreation and Quality of Life – Hayman & Endicott • City Organization and Services Committee – Not seated due to potential dissolution At tonight’s meeting, if City Org is not absolved, we need to seat the members.
Additionally, it was not noticed until after the Jan 15th meeting that Council Member Gorman did not get seated on a committee. For this reason, staff would like to open up the discussions to potential rearranging of appointments to allow for his participation.
Attached is an updated committee spreadsheet.
FISCAL IMPACT: None
ACTION REQUESTED: Appoint Members To Committees, Boards, And Commissions CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION:
Submitted by: Ricca Charlon Action Date: February 5, 2025 This Page Intentionally Left Blank
Commissions, Board, & Committees Mayor Travis Endicott Skip Gorman L. Scott Hayman Solomon P. Rajaratnam Kyle Blades Planning Commission
(Each Council Member nominates a commissioner) Cody Pauxtis Juan 'Bernie' Mondragon Vanessa Hayman Warren Cox Bill Farris Jr.
Personnel Commission
(Each Council Member nominates a commissioner) Mike Avery Reg Johnson Roger Ussery Bill Farris Jr.
Construction Appeals Board
(Each Council Member nominates a commissioner) Clifton Robbins Bill Freund Mike Ferguson Bill Farris Jr.
Handicap Access Appeals Board
(Municipal Code requires 2 members be physically handicapped, 2 members experienced in construction, and 1 member be a public member
Lora Vitale Crisian Loya Chris Hill Bill Farris Jr.
Ridgecrest Area Convention & Visitors Bureau (RACVB) (1 Council Appointment & 1 Alternate) Staff - J. Rickets Rajaratnam Kern Council of Governments (KernCOG)
(1 Council Appointment & 1 Alternate) Gorman Blades
Navy Community Council
(Mayor + 1 Council Appointment) Endicott Rajaratnam
IWV Groundwater Authority Hayman Blades
Finance Committee Hayman Rajaratnam
Civilian & Military Affairs Mayor Chief of Police
East Kern County Air Pollution Control Board Gorman Blades Quad State Local Governments Authority Gorman
League of California Cities Blades Gorman
Disaster Council (appointments set by Municipal Code) Mayor/Chair City Manager/Director of Emergency Services
Chief of Police/Asst.
Director of Emergency
Services
Round Table/BLM Gorman Hayman
Infrastructure Committee Endicott Blades Planning Commissioner Cody Pauxtis
Planning Commissioner
Bernie Mondragon
City Organization and Services Gorman Bruen Planning Commissioner Warren Cox
Planning Commissioner
Bill Farris Jr.
Parks, Recreation, Quality of Life (includes Senior Advisory Council and Arts Council) Hayman Endicott Planning Commissioner Vanessa Hayman
Planning Commissioner
Cody Pauxtis
Economic Development Committee Blades Rajaratnam Planning Commissioner Bill Farris Jr.
Planning Commissioner
Bernie Mondragon
Measure V (Each Council Member nominates a member) Joe Shermer Chris Hill Brandon Temple Gurpreet Badrain Holly Farris Measure P (Each Council Member nominates a member) Bradley Patin Denise Gorman Elidia Dixon Todd St. Laurent Holly Farris EAST Kern EDC Blades Staff - J. Rickets
LAFCO Endicott
Kern EDC Bill Farris Jr.
Other Emergency Service Personnel as
appointed by the Director of Emergency
Services to fulfill critical functions
updated Jan 29, 2025
This Page Intentionally Left Blank
4 This Page Intentionally Left Blank
CITY COUNCIL/SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY/FINANCING
AUTHORITY/HOUSING AUTHORITY AGENDA ITEM
SUBJECT: A Public Hearing And Resolution Approving The Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Annual Application Regarding The Kern County Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program PRESENTED BY: Nerissa Wegener, Parks and Recreation Director SUMMARY:
A noticed Public Hearing for February 5, 2025 was established to discuss and prioritize proposed Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Projects for the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Annual Application for Community Development Programs within the County of Kern. The anticipated fair share amount for FY 2025-2026 is $98,598. Public comments are solicited and will be heard and accepted before approval of the selected project. The Resolution is presented to confirm the allocation of funds at the conclusion of the Public Hearing and must be filed, along with the project application, with the County of Kern.
It would be appropriate to open the public hearing, receive public comments, review and discuss projects as may be desired and determined.
It is staff’s recommendation that the CDBG funding allocation should be considered for improvements to the City of Ridgecrest Skate Park located at the Leroy Jackson Sport Complex. Staff recommends that the CDBG funding is used to add and additional feature to the skate park.
The Skate Park located at the Leroy Jackson Sports complex it is used by a lot of different people in our community of all ages and demographics. Our community members have reached out to the recreation staff on several occasions requesting improvements be made to the skate park. Staff feel that expanding the skate park is beneficial to the community as the skate park is used by many and this will increase the use of the skate park and provide more space for the users.
Staff considered other possible projects using the CBDG funding such as adding more shade around the area. Staff feel that an additional feature is needed as the number of users continue to grow.
The Skate Park project will be discussed through the monthly Quality of Life Meetings to decide a plan moving forward. Staff will also be having discussions with the community and users of the Skate Park to see what features would be beneficial.
FISCAL IMPACT: None
ACTION REQUESTED: Hold The Public Hearing and Adopt the Resolution Approving the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Annual Application and Approve the Kern County Community Development Block Grant Application and Direct Staff to Submit the Application CITY MANAGER / EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR RECOMMENDATION: Action as requested Submitted by: Nerissa Wegener, Director of Parks and Recreation Action Date: February 5, 2025 This Page Intentionally Left Blank
RESOLUTION NO. 25-Xx
A PUBLIC HEARING AND RESOLUTION APPROVING THE FISCAL
YEAR 2025-2026 ANNUAL APPLICATION REGARDING THE KERN
COUNTY COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG)
PROGRAM
WHEREAS, the Kern County Department of Community Development requires that public comment be obtained for proposed Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Projects for the FY 2025-2026; and,
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest on February 5, 2025 held a duly noticed Public Hearing for the purpose of obtaining public input and identifying unmet needs of the community; and,
WHEREAS, the anticipated fair share amount for FY 2025-2026 is $98,598.00; and,
WHEREAS, it was determined by the City Council to use this funding allocation for the Improvements to the City of Ridgecrest Skate Park located at the Leroy Jackson Sports Complex by adding an additional feature to the Skate Park.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest Does Hereby Adopt The Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Annual Application And Approves The Kern County Community Development Block Grant Application And Directs Staff To Submit The Application.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 5
th day of February 2025, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Travis Endicott, Mayor
ATTEST:
Ricca Charlon
City Clerk
This Page Intentionally Left Blank
KERN COUNTY
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT
APPLICATION
City of Ridgecrest
Ricca Charlon, City Clerk
100 W. California Ave., Ridgecrest, CA 93555
760-499-5002 or [email protected]
Nerissa Wegener, Interim Parks and Recreation Director
100 W. California Ave., Ridgecrest, CA 93555
760-499-5171 or [email protected]
Project Name: City of Ridgecrest – Addition of Skate Park Feature
PROJECT PURPOSE AND BENEFIT
A. What is the purpose of the project? Provide a brief statement of the problem to be addressed and describe what the project will accomplish. (See attached list of Eligible Activities and National Objectives, Appendix A.) The CDBG money will be helping to provide an additional feature at the city skate park. The community has requested an expansion on several occasions and by providing it, the City will help produce a safer environment by allowing participants to spread out while utilizing the park. This expansion will go hand in hand with our addition of a shaded seating area.
B. Provide a map showing the specific geographic service area boundaries of your project. (See attached description of Determining Service Areas, Appendix B.) Ridgecrest City Limits C. Describe who or what group(s) will benefit from the project. Include characteristics such as race, gender, income, age, etc. (See attached form pursuant to HUD requirements of Outcome Performance Measurement, Appendix C.) The public, tourists, and community members all of which have users who vary in race, gender, age and income.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Describe all components of the project, in a detailed narrative. Indicate “N/A” if the question is not applicable to your project:
A. Where is the project to be located?
302 E. French St. Ridgecrest, CA 93555
APN# 396-011-14
Maps and photographs attached
B. MAJOR WORK ITEMS (one or more may apply):
1. For acquisition of property, a building, or public easement, provide the following: N/A
2. For new construction, provide the following: N/A
3. For rehabilitation, renovation or expansion of an existing facility, provide the following:
Some of the deficiencies we would like to correct at the Leroy Jackson Sports Complex include additional features at the Skate Park. These renovations will help utilization, provide a safer skating environment, and address community requests for expansion. The city is looking to add a new feature to the skate park to round out the items available for use. Currently this facility is maintained by the City of Ridgecrest and no third-party agreement is needed.
C. For larger scale projects, will this project be phased? This project will be completed simultaneously and no phasing will be needed.
D. Who will implement this project (complete design, conduct bid advertising, contracting, etc.)? The Parks Director will oversee the project. The design is not currently complete and will be contracted out.
E. Please describe all alternative sites and alternative project designs that were considered:
Alternative sites considered were Kerr McGee Sports Complex (Baseball/football fields) which included adding dual purpose fields and the Leroy Jackson Sports Complex (soccer fields) which included adding shade and bleachers by the fields. These were not chosen as the baseball fields located at the Kerr McGee Youth Sports complex were renovated in 2016 and the Leroy Jackson Sports Complex just received a rehabilitation in 2024.
FUNDING SOURCES/PROJECT COST ESTIMATE
A. Please explain why CDBG assistance is needed for this project? Due to the COVID19 pandemic and the 2019 July 3rd & 4th earthquakes, the City of Ridgecrest has suffered a loss of revenue due to having to cancel many of our programs. This has limited our Recreation Department’s ability to provide necessary upgrades to our facilities in a timely manner. CBDG assistance is needed for this project as we feel it is important to be able to provide our community with adequate facilities that will assist in community growth and quality of life.
B. Itemize all sources of funding expected to be available and used for this project.
NOTE: Total funding as shown above must match the “Total Project Cost” shown on the next page of the application.
For all non-CDBG funding sources provide:
C. Please identify the source of funds for annual operating & maintenance costs (if any) associated with this project? City of Ridgecrest General Fund.
D. Provide an itemized cost estimate using the format shown on next page.
Source of Funds Amount of Funding Expected
Community Development Block Grant $ 98,598
Other Federal Source(s) $
State Source(s) $
Local/Applicant Source(s) $
Total Funding $ 98,598
PROJECT COST ESTIMATE
Note: Pricing estimates should take into account federal and state prevailing wage requirements.
Prepared By: Nerissa Wegener, Interim Director Date Prepared: Dec 2024
Construction Cost $ 67,400
Real Property Acquisition (if applicable) $
Design Cost (10% of construction cost) $ 6,740
Advertisement $ 194
Construction Inspection (15% of construction cost) $ 10,110 Contract Administration/HUD Monitoring (5% of construction cost) $ 3,370 Contingency (10% of construction cost) $ 6,740
Escalation (6% of construction cost) $ 4,044
Project Delivery Cost (Planning and Natural Resources Department – CD Costs) $
TOTAL PROJECT COST** $ 98,598
Description of
Item
Quantity Unit of Measure* Unit Price Total Price
Total materials
Flat land covered with mainly dirt and concrete that makes up the skate park. Roads run on the North, East, and South side of the site.
G. Will these improvements:
1.) Increase residential densities? No
2.) Make a vacant building habitable? No
3.) Convert the type of use of a building to habitation? No
PLANNING ISSUES
A. What is the current zoning of the project site? RSP (Recreation, Schools and public use) What is the current Specific or General Plan Designation of the project site? Parks Are the proposed uses consistent with the current Land Use Categories assigned under the local plan? Yes B. Will a general plan amendment, zone change, conditional use permit or zoning variance / modification be required for the proposed use of the site? N/A
C. Are there any Federal or State review and approval process required for the proposed project? N/A D. What is the proposed source of water for the project? IWV Water District for potable water, well systems for landscape and irrigation.
What is the proposed method of sewage disposal? N/A
Are new connections proposed in association with the project? N/A E. Have you received all clearances and/or commitments from affected public utility companies (electricity, sewer, water, etc.) or railroads to complete this project? N/A
ENVIRONMENTAL DATA
Prior to HUD’s release of Grant conditions and/or funds for a CDBG-funded project, a review of the project’s potential impact on the environment must be conducted, and the County of Kern must certify to HUD that it has complied with all applicable environmental procedures and requirements. Complete answers to the following questions must be provided in order to initially assess a proposed project’s potential environmental issues/concerns. Project conditions or mitigation, if any, may be an additional project cost.
A. Land Use
1. What use(s) currently occupy the project site (e.g., vacant, industrial, residential, etc.)? Recreation
2. What land uses (e.g., agriculture, residences, school, etc.) are north, south, east, & west of the site? Schools to the North and East, Residences to the South, Parks to the West
2. How many structures are on the site? None
4. Please provide the year built of all buildings or structures on the site. N/A
B. Environmental Studies/Reports: None
C. Are there any storage tanks/containers (larger than 100 gallons) on the project site or in a mile of the project’s vicinity? One 20,000-gallon water tank and one 16,000-gallon water tank.
D. Describe any surface waters on the site or in the surrounding area (e.g., wetlands, rivers, drainage basins, lakes, etc.) N/A E. Noise Sources: N/A
F. Describe the project site’s topography and vegetation.
Appendix C
OUTCOME PERFORMANCE MEASUREMENT
(This section must be completed in order to be considered for funding) HUD requires recipients of federal funds to assess the objectives and outcomes of all projects undertaken. A Performance Measurement System has been designed by HUD to establish and track measurable goals and objectives for the CDBG, ESG, and HOME Programs. Applicants are required to identify the objectives and outcomes of their proposed projects and to predict benefits and measure performance. If a project is approved for funding, the applicant must agree to collect and report all data required in accordance with the requirements set forth by HUD and as stipulated in the project agreement.
1. Project Objectives:
Why is the proposed project/program needed?
This project is needed so that our facilities can be expanded to provide the community with a safer skating facility. It will address the communities request for expansion. It is important to our community that our facilities meet their needs so that they may improve their quality of life, health and physical education through sports and fitness.
2. Project Outcomes:
What changes do you expect will be achieved as a result of the proposed project or program? We expect that this project will increase quality of life for all Ridgecrest residents. It will allow additional use of our facilities and assist with the health and wellness of the community. This will encourage groups and organizations to utilize our skate parks which helps our local economy by drawing in out of town guests and other skate groups. It also allows socialization in a healthy outdoor environment.
3. Project Benefit:
a. How many persons or households is the proposed project/program expected to benefit? Ridgecrest projected population 28,110
b. How many jobs is the proposed project/program expected to create and/or retain? N/A c. How many dwelling units is the proposed project/program expected to create and/or rehabilitate? 0 Additional Application Information Required for Outcome Performance Measurement:
1. Will the project provide a new service or benefit to residents? No
2. Will the project provide improved service or benefit to residents? Yes
3. Will the project upgrade a currently substandard service, facility or improvements? Yes
4. Will the facility provide overnight shelter or other emergency housing? No APN Maps
Site
North
East
South
West