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
August 6, 2025
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:
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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
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RIDGECREST CITY COUNCIL
SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
FINANCING AUTHORITY
HOUSING AUTHORITY
AGENDA
Wednesday, August 6, 2025 Regular Session – 6:00 p.m.
CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
REGULAR SESSION
Pledge Of Allegiance
Invocation
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. Resolution Of The Ridgecrest City Council Authorizing The City Manager To Enter Into A Memorandum Of Agreement With Sierra Sands Unified School District For Law Enforcement Services (School Resource Officer Program) Ysit
DISCUSSION / ACTION ITEMS
2. Discussion Regarding The Board Of The Indian Wells Valley Groundwater Authority (IWVGA) Hayman
3. A Resolution of the City Council Approving Additional Appropriations in the Annual Budget for the Purchase of One Battery Electric Transit Van Utilizing Funds Appropriated for the Low Carbon Transit Operations Program (LCTOP) Project in the Amount Not to Exceed $127,178.67. Covarrubias
4. A Resolution Approving the Program Supplement Agreement NO. F050 With the State of California Department of Transportation, for the S. Mahan St. Reconstruction Phase I, Bowman Rd. to Dolphin Ave. and Authorizing the City Manager, Ron Strand to Sign the Program Supplement. Reed
AGENDA - CITY COUNCIL / SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY / FINANCING AUTHORITY / HOUSING AUTHORITY REGULAR – August 6, 2025
ORDINANCE
5. An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest Amending the Ridgecrest Municipal Code Regarding Landscape Maintenance Spurlock 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, 1st Floor
Next meeting August 4, 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, 1st Floor
Report from July 8, 2025
Infrastructure Committee
Members: Mayor Endicott and Kyle Blades
Meeting: 4th Thursday each month at 5:00 p.m.
Location: City Hall Conference Room B, 1st Floor
Next meeting July 24, 2025
Parks, Recreation, and Quality of Life Committee
Members: Mayor Endicott and Scott Hayman
Meeting: 1st Tuesday each month at 5:30 p.m.
Location: City Hall Council Chambers
Next meeting August 5, 2025
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: Resolution Of The Ridgecrest City Council Authorizing The City Manager To Enter Into A Memorandum Of Agreement With Sierra Sands Unified School District For Law Enforcement Services (School Resource Officer Program)
PRESENTED BY: Mario Ysit, Chief of Police
SUMMARY:
For several years, the Ridgecrest Police Department has been providing law enforcement services to the Sierra Sands Unified School District (SSUSD) – School Resource Officer (SRO) Program. In 2013, a second SRO was added under a Department of Justice, COPS Hiring Program, which ended November 2016. SSUSD and the Police Department continued this second position to maintain services throughout the District.
SSUSD agrees to reimburse the City one-half of actual costs incurred by the City in employing the two (2) Police Officers. Actual cost shall be defined as officer’s salary and benefits, including, but not limited to, health insurance, life insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, PERS, educational incentive pay, uniform allowance, officer safety equipment, and overtime.
The agreement is attached to the resolution for your review as Exhibit A.
FISCAL IMPACT: (2) School Resource Officers – Reimbursed at 50% of actual costs (an estimated $150,000).
ACTION REQUESTED: Recommend approval by City Council authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to enter into an agreement with the SSUSD for law enforcement services (School Resource Officer Program).
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION: Action as requested
Submitted by: Mario Ysit, Chief of Police Action Date: July 9, 2025 1 AGREEMENT
THIS AGREEMENT is made and entered into by and between the City of Ridgecrest, a Municipal Corporation, hereinafter referred to as “CITY,” and the Sierra Sands Unified School District, a public entity, hereinafter referred to as “DISTRICT.” WHEREAS, DISTRICT does not maintain a school law enforcement agency pursuant to Section 38000(a) of the California Education Code, and DISTRICT wishes to acquire the services of two sworn peace officers, and
WHEREAS, CITY, through the Ridgecrest Police Department, hereinafter referred to as “RPD,” is willing to provide the service of two sworn peace officers.
NOW, THEREFORE, the parties hereto agree as follows:
1. CITY agrees to provide the services of two sworn peace officers to serve the DISTRICT at the primary and secondary schools within the Ridgecrest city limits, specifically Faller Elementary School, Gateway Elementary School, Las Flores Elementary School, Pierce Academy of the Arts, Richmond Elementary School, Vieweg STEM Academy, China Lake Junior High School, Mesquite High School, and Burroughs High School.
2. CITY shall supervise the officers through the command structure of the RPD.
3. DISTRICT shall appoint a designated individual to interface with RPD regarding activities of the officers and to interface with such officers in accordance with a joint operating protocol developed between RPD and DISTRICT.
The responsibilities of the SRO’s shall include, but not be limited to:
a. Handling requests for calls for service in and around schools b. Conducting comprehensive safety and security assessments c. Developing and implementing safety plans or strategies d. Responding to unauthorized persons on school property e. Serving as liaisons between the school and other police agencies, investigative units, or juvenile justice authorities when necessary and consistent with applicable civil rights laws and privacy laws
f. Serving as a member of a multidisciplinary school team to refer students to professional services within both the school (guidance counselors or social workers) and the community (youth and family service organizations) g. Building relationships with juvenile justice counselors to help connect youth with needed services
h. Developing and expanding crime prevention efforts for students
4. At all times during the term of this AGREEMENT, the officers shall be employees of the CITY, under supervision and control of CITY, and not an employee or agent 2 of DISTRICT; and CITY shall assume responsibility and liability for the activities of the officers.
5. During the term of this AGREEMENT, DISTRICT agrees to reimburse CITY one-half actual cost incurred by CITY in employing the officers. For purpose of this AGREEMENT, actual cost shall be defined as officer’s salary and benefits, including, but not limited to, health insurance, life insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, PERS, educational incentive pay, uniform allowance, officer safety equipment, and overtime.
6. THIS AGREEMENT shall be effective September 1, 2025 and remain in full force and effect for a 12-month period ending August 31, 2026. Either party may terminate this AGREEMENT prior to August 31, 2026, by giving ninety (90) days notice to the other party. Notice to CITY shall be in writing, and mailed to or delivered to:
City Manager
City of Ridgecrest
100 W. California Avenue, Ridgecrest, CA 93555
Notice to DISTRICT shall be in writing, and mailed or delivered to:
Superintendent
Sierra Sands Unified School District
113 W. Felspar Ave.
Ridgecrest, CA 93555
7. Each party to this AGREEMENT hereby holds the other harmless from all claims or lawsuits for damages to property and for injuries to persons arising from each party’s performance of its obligations under this AGREEMENT. This obligation will include providing a defense to lawsuits and related services.
8. In the event any dispute arises between the parties concerning the interpretation or enforcement of the Terms and Conditions of this AGREEMENT, the parties hereto agree to submit any such dispute to arbitration pursuant to rules of the American Arbitration Association. Any decision of the American Arbitration Association shall be binding on the parties hereto. In the event that any matter is submitted to arbitration or if legal action or proceeding is taken in connection with the interpretation or enforcement of this AGREEMENT, whether or not such action is arbitrated or litigated, the prevailing party of any such action, proceeding, or arbitration shall be awarded, in addition to its actual costs incurred, its actual attorneys’ fees incurred. Actual attorneys’ fees means all attorneys’ fees incurred by the prevailing party whether or not such attorneys’ fees are deemed to be “reasonable” by a court of competent jurisdiction or an arbitrator. Furthermore, the sole and exclusive remedy for the resolution of disputes concerning the enforcement and interpretation of this AGREEMENT shall be arbitration. 3 9. This AGREEMENT constitutes the sole and only agreement between the parties hereto. Any prior discussions, agreements or understandings, whether written or oral, are of no force and effect. This AGREEMENT may be modified only by a written agreement executed by both parties hereto.
FOR THE CITY OF RIDGECREST
___________________________ _________________
Travis Endicott, Mayor Date
___________________________ _________________
Ronald Strand, City Manager Date
FOR THE SIERRA SANDS UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
______________________________ _________________
Michael Scott, Board President Date
______________________________ _________________
Dr. April Moore, Superintendent Date
RESOLUTION NO. 26-
RESOLUTION OF THE RIDGECREST CITY COUNCIL AUTHORIZING THE
CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT WITH
SIERRA SANDS UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT SERVICES (School Resource Officer Program)
WHEREAS, the Sierra Sands Unified School District (SSUSD) and the City of Ridgecrest have agreed to enter into Memorandum of Agreement for the Police Department to continue to provide School Resource Officer services in the School District, and; WHEREAS, the School Resource Officer (SRO) Program provides law enforcement services to the district helping ensure there is a safe learning environment at the elementary, middle and high schools for the students, faculty and staff, and; WHEREAS, it is beneficial to both the City and SSUSD that this program continue to function, and;
WHEREAS, SSUSD agrees to reimburse the City 50% of actual costs of the School Resource Officer Program.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest authorize the City Manager, or his designee, to enter into an agreement with the Sierra Sands Unified School District to provide law enforcement services (School Resource Officer Program), including any amendments.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 16th day of July 2025, by the following vote.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Travis Endicott, Mayor
ATTEST:
Ricca Charlon, City Clerk
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Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority
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: August 6, 2025 This Page Intentionally Left Blank
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Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority
STAFF REPORT
SUBJECT: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF RIDGECREST CITY COUNCIL APPROVING ADDITIONAL APPROPRIATIONS IN THE ANNUAL BUDGET FOR:
THE PURCHASE OF (ONE) BATTERY ELECTRIC TRANSIT VAN UTILIZING FUNDS
APPORTIONED FOR THE LOW CARBON TRANSIT OPERATIONS PROGRAM (LCTOP); IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $127,178.67.
PRESENTED BY: Sergio Covarrubias, Transit Administrator SUMMARY: The Low Carbon Transit Operations Program (LCTOP) is one of several programs that are part of the Transit, Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities Program established by the California Legislature in 2014 by Senate Bill 862.
LCTOP is administered by the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) in coordination with the Air Resources Board (ARB) and the State Controller’s Office (SCO). It is the responsibility of Kern Council of Governments to apportion these funds to the transit agencies under its purview. For Fiscal Years 19-20, 20-21, 21-22, & 22-23, the City of Ridgecrest Transit division has been allocated $234,180 for the purchase of electric vans.
There is no local match required for this program.
The Transit Department has pending CMAQ funding that would provide the Dept. with funds to purchase (4) Battery-electric vans. The purchase of this electric-van will promote ridership for the transit service and benefit the community with reliable transportation and fulfill the requirements for the replacement of our outdated gasoline powered fleet.
Additionally, this will be the last of 8/1 passenger battery-electric vans. It would also place Ridgecrest ahead of schedule for The City approved resolution for the City’s Transit Asset Management (TAM) plan to have a zero-emission fleet by 2040.
It is the recommendation of City Council staff, for approval, for the Finance Director to make the necessary allocations for these LCTOP funds be used for the purchase of (one) batteryelectric van to serve the patrons of Ridgecrest Transit and not exceed the amount of $127,178.67.
FISCAL IMPACT: No impact due to funds already apportioned from LCTOP grant.
ACTION REQUESTED: Approval for these LCTOP funds be used for the purchase of (one) battery-electric van to serve the patrons of Ridgecrest Transit and not exceed the amount of $127,178.67.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION: Action is Requested
Submitted by: Sergio Covarrubias, Transit Administrator Action Date: August 6th , 2025 (Revised Jan2019)
RESOLUTION NO. 25-
1 | Page
Reso. 25-__
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF RIDGECREST CITY COUNCIL APPROVING
ADDITIONAL APPROPRIATIONS IN THE ANNUAL BUDGET FOR THE PURCHASE
OF (ONE) BATTERY ELECTRIC TRANSIT VAN UTILIZING FUNDS APPORTIONED FOR THE LOW CARBON TRANSIT OPERATIONS PROGRAM (LCTOP) PROJECT; IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $127,178.67.
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest has duly adopted its annual budget per resolution; and,
WHEREAS, resolution 25-29 spells out the circumstances whereby total fund appropriations may be and can be increased; and,
WHEREAS, certain increases in annual appropriations and estimated revenues to the budget require City Council Resolution prior to implementation; and, WHEREAS, The City of Ridgecrest, from previous years, received and allocated an amount of $234,180 from the Low Carbon Transit Operators Program (LCTOP).
WHEREAS, The City of Ridgecrest Transit Department is asking City Council to approve $127,178.67 previously received (LCTOP) funds for the purchase of (one) battery-electric transit van; and,
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest hereby:
1. Allocate unbudgeted LCTOP funds in the amount of $127,178.67 for the purchase of (one) battery-electric transit van for the Transit department.
2. Authorizes the Finance Director to amend the budget to reflect all appropriate capital, revenue and transfer accounts and create a purchase order for the purchase of (one) battery-electric transit van for the amount of $127,178.67.
3. Authorizes Ron Strand, City Manager, to execute all Contracts & Agreements.
ADOPTED, AND APPROVED, this 6th day of August 2025, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN: ___________________
ATTEST: Travis Endicott, Mayor
____________________
Ricca Charlon, City Clerk
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Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority
STAFF REPORT
SUBJECT:
A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE PROGRAM SUPPLEMENT AGREEMENT NO. F050 WITH THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA, DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION, FOR S. MAHAN ST. RECONSTRUCTION PHASE I, BOWMAN RD. TO DOLPHIN AVE. AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY
MANAGER, RON STRAND TO SIGN THE PROGRAM SUPPLEMENT.
PRESENTED BY: Travis Reed, Deputy City Manager
SUMMARY:
The Program Supplement Agreement is for the preliminary engineering, construction engineering & construction work for the S. Mahan St. Phase I project. Spanning from Bowman Rd. to the Southern end of Dolphin Ave.
The funds being received are from the Regional Surface Transportation Program (RSTP) in the amount of $1,671,130.00.
The matching funds of $1,965,298.00 will come from Measure V Funds. Once Bids are received a detail of funding sources will be provided. Keep in mind this local match includes all of the phase II work (Dolphin to Springer). The City recently applied for an additional RSTP grant for phase II. If successful the city will receive approximately 2.8 million dollars for the full construction of Mahan St. from Bowman to Springer. The Cities local match would be roughly $500,000.00.
The State requires that one person in the local agency be designated to sign the agreement with the State. The City’s Master Agreement with the State stipulates the City Manager as the designated person.
FISCAL IMPACT: $1,965,298.00 from Measure V – or as determined once bids are received.
Additionally, notice of the recently applied for grant is not known at this time. Should we not receive the Grant for Phase II the City can elect to complete phase II at a later date thus reducing the local match to roughly $300,000.00.
Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority
STAFF REPORT
ACTION REQUESTED:
1. Approves the Program Supplement Agreement No. F050 with the State Of California, Department Of Transportation, Under Master Agreement No. 09-5385F15.
2. Authorizes the use of Measure V funds as the City’s match.
3. Authorizes the Finance Director to amend the budget to reflect all appropriate expenditures, revenue and transfer accounts.
4. Authorizes The City Manager, Ronald Strand, To Sign the Program Supplement Agreement No. F050 for the Con., PE, & CE work required for the project.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION:
Action is requested.
Submitted by: Travis Reed Action Date: Aug. 6, 2025
(Revised Jan2019)
F050
FOR FEDERAL-AID PROJECTS NO 09-5385F15
0925000004
July 21, 2025
09-KER-0-RGCR
RSTPL-5385(077)
5385
This Program Supplement hereby adopts and incorporates the Administering Agency-State Agreement for Federal Aid which was entered into between the Administering Agency and the State on 05/31/2017 and is subject to all the terms and conditions thereof. This Program Supplement is executed in accordance with Article I of the aforementioned Master Agreement under authority of Resolution No. approved by the Administering Agency on (See copy attached).
The Administering Agency further stipulates that as a condition to the payment by the State of any funds derived from sources noted below obligated to this PROJECT, the Administering Agency accepts and will comply with the special covenants or remarks set forth on the following pages.
South Mahan Street between West Bowman Road and West Dophin Avenue Road Reconstruction 0.5(MILES)
Estimated Cost Federal Funds Matching Funds
M240 $1,671,130.00
CITY OF RIDGECREST
By ________________________________ By ________________________________ Title _______________________________
Date _______________________________
Attest _______________________________ Date _______________________________ Division of Local Assistance
I hereby certify upon my personal knowledge that budgeted funds are available for this encumbrance:
Accounting Officer _______________________ Date _______________ PROGRAM SUPPLEMENT NO.
to
ADMINISTERING AGENCY-STATE AGREEMENT
Adv. Project ID Date:
Location:
Project Number:
E.A. Number:
Locode:
PROJECT LOCATION:
TYPE OF WORK: LENGTH:
LOCAL OTHER
$3,636,428.00 $1,965,298.00 $0.00
Chief, Office of Project Management Oversight
STATE OF CALIFORNIA
Department of Transportation
$1,671,130.00
Program Supplement 09-5385F15-F050- ISTEA 1Page of 7
7/21/2025
SPECIAL COVENANTS OR REMARKS
09-KER-0-RGCR
RSTPL-5385(077)
1. A. The ADMINISTERING AGENCY will advertise, award and administer this project in accordance with the current published Local Assistance Procedures Manual.
B. ADMINISTERING AGENCY agrees that it will only proceed with work authorized for specific phase(s) with an "Authorization to Proceed" and will not proceed with future phase(s) of this project prior to receiving an "Authorization to Proceed" from the STATE for that phase(s) unless no further State or Federal funds are needed for those future phase(s).
C. STATE and ADMINISTERING AGENCY agree that any additional funds which might be made available by future Federal obligations will be encumbered on this PROJECT by use of a STATE-approved "Authorization to Proceed" and Finance Letter. ADMINISTERING AGENCY agrees that Federal funds available for reimbursement will be limited to the amounts obligated by the Federal Highway Administration.
D. Award information shall be submitted by the ADMINISTERING AGENCY to the District Local Assistance Engineer within 60 days of project contract award and prior to the submittal of the ADMINISTERING AGENCY'S first invoice for the construction contract.
Failure to do so will cause a delay in the State processing invoices for the construction phase.
Attention is directed to Section 15.6 "Award Package" of the Local Assistance Procedures Manual.
E. ADMINISTERING AGENCY agrees, as a minimum, to submit invoices at least once every six months commencing after the funds are encumbered for each phase by the execution of this Project Program Supplement Agreement, or by STATE's approval of an applicable Finance Letter. STATE reserves the right to suspend future authorizations/obligations for Federal aid projects, or encumbrances for State funded projects, as well as to suspend invoice payments for any on-going or future project by ADMINISTERING AGENCY if PROJECT costs have not been invoiced by ADMINISTERING AGENCY for a six-month period.
If no costs have been invoiced for a six-month period, ADMINISTERING AGENCY agrees to submit for each phase a written explanation of the absence of PROJECT activity along with target billing date and target billing amount.
ADMINISTERING AGENCY agrees to submit the final report documents that collectively constitute a "Report of Expenditures" within one hundred eighty (180) days of PROJECT completion. Failure of ADMINISTERING AGENCY to submit a "Final Report of Expenditures" within 180 days of PROJECT completion will result in STATE imposing sanctions upon ADMINISTERING AGENCY in accordance with the current Local Assistance Procedures Manual.
Program Supplement 09-5385F15-F050- ISTEA Page 2 of 7
SPECIAL COVENANTS OR REMARKS
09-KER-0-RGCR
RSTPL-5385(077)
F. Administering Agency shall not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, age, disability, color, national origin, or sex in the award and performance of any Federal-assisted contract or in the administration of its DBE Program Implementation Agreement. The Administering Agency shall take all necessary and reasonable steps under 49 CFR Part 26 to ensure nondiscrimination in the award and administration of Federal-assisted contracts. The Administering Agency's DBE Implementation Agreement is incorporated by reference in this Agreement. Implementation of the DBE Implementation Agreement, including but not limited to timely reporting of DBE commitments and utilization, is a legal obligation and failure to carry out its terms shall be treated as a violation of this Agreement. Upon notification to the Administering Agency of its failure to carry out its DBE Implementation Agreement, the State may impose sanctions as provided for under 49 CFR Part 26 and may, in appropriate cases, refer the matter for enforcement under 18 U.S.C. 1001 and/or the Program Fraud Civil Remedies Act of 1986 (31 U.S.C. 3801 et seq.).
G. Any State and Federal funds that may have been encumbered for this project are available for disbursement for limited periods of time. For each fund encumbrance the limited period is from the start of the fiscal year that the specific fund was appropriated within the State Budget Act to the applicable fund Reversion Date shown on the State approved project finance letter. Per Government Code Section 16304, all project funds not liquidated within these periods will revert unless an executed Cooperative Work Agreement extending these dates is requested by the ADMINISTERING AGENCY and approved by the California Department of Finance.
ADMINISTERING AGENCY should ensure that invoices are submitted to the District Local Assistance Engineer at least 75 days prior to the applicable fund Reversion Date to avoid the lapse of applicable funds. Pursuant to a directive from the State Controller's Office and the Department of Finance; in order for payment to be made, the last date the District Local Assistance Engineer can forward an invoice for payment to the Department's Local Programs Accounting Office for reimbursable work for funds that are going to revert at the end of a particular fiscal year is May 15th of the particular fiscal year. Notwithstanding the unliquidated sums of project specific State and Federal funding remaining and available to fund project work, any invoice for reimbursement involving applicable funds that is not received by the Department's Local Programs Accounting Office at least 45 days prior to the applicable fixed fund Reversion Date will not be paid. These unexpended funds will be irrevocably reverted by the Department's Division of Accounting on the applicable fund Reversion Date.
H. As a condition for receiving federal-aid highway funds for the PROJECT, the Administering Agency certifies that NO members of the elected board, council, or other key decision makers are on the Federal Government Exclusion List. Exclusions can be found at www.sam.gov.
Program Supplement 09-5385F15-F050- ISTEA Page 3 of 7
SPECIAL COVENANTS OR REMARKS
09-KER-0-RGCR
RSTPL-5385(077)
2. A. ADMINISTERING AGENCY shall conform to all State statutes, regulations and procedures (including those set forth in the Local Assistance Procedures Manual and the Local Assistance Program Guidelines, hereafter collectively referred to as "LOCAL ASSISTANCE PROCEDURES") relating to the federal-aid program, all Title 23 Code of Federal Regulation (CFR) and 2 CFR Part 200 federal requirements, and all applicable federal laws, regulations, and policy and procedural or instructional memoranda, unless otherwise specifically waived as designated in the executed project-specific PROGRAM SUPPLEMENT.
B. Invoices shall be formatted in accordance with LOCAL ASSISTANCE PROCEDURES.
C. ADMINISTERING AGENCY must have at least one copy of supporting backup documentation for costs incurred and claimed for reimbursement by ADMINISTERING AGENCY. ADMINISTERING AGENCY agrees to submit supporting backup documentation with invoices if requested by State. Acceptable backup documentation includes, but is not limited to, agency's progress payment to the contractors, copies of cancelled checks showing amounts made payable to vendors and contractors, and/or a computerized summary of PROJECT costs.
D. Indirect Cost Allocation Plan/Indirect Cost Rate Proposals (ICAP/ICRP), Central Service Cost Allocation Plans and related documentation are to be prepared and provided to STATE (Caltrans Audits & Investigations) for review and approval prior to ADMINISTERING AGENCY seeking reimbursement of indirect costs incurred within each fiscal year being claimed for State and federal reimbursement. ICAPs/ICRPs must be prepared in accordance with the requirements set forth in 2 CFR, Part 200, Chapter 5 of the Local Assistance Procedural Manual, and the ICAP/ICRP approval procedures established by STATE.
E. STATE will withhold the greater of either two (2) percent of the total of all federal funds encumbered for each PROGRAM SUPPLEMENT or $40,000 until ADMINISTERING AGENCY submits the Final Report of Expenditures for each completed PROGRAM SUPPLEMENT PROJECT.
F. Payments to ADMINISTERING AGENCY for PROJECT-related travel and subsistence (per diem) expenses of ADMINISTERING AGENCY forces and its contractors and subcontractors claimed for reimbursement or as local match credit shall not exceed rates authorized to be paid rank and file STATE employees under current State Department of Personnel Administration (DPA) rules. If the rates invoiced by ADMINISTERING AGENCY are in excess of DPA rates, ADMINISTERING AGENCY is responsible for the cost difference, and any overpayments inadvertently paid by STATE shall be reimbursed to STATE by ADMINISTERING AGENCY on demand within thirty (30) days of such invoice.
Program Supplement 09-5385F15-F050- ISTEA Page 4 of 7
SPECIAL COVENANTS OR REMARKS
09-KER-0-RGCR
RSTPL-5385(077)
G. ADMINISTERING AGENCY agrees to comply with 2 CFR, Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles and Audit Requirement for Federal Awards.
H. ADMINISTERING AGENCY agrees, and will assure that its contractors and subcontractors will be obligated to agree, that Contract Cost Principles and Procedures, 48 CFR, Federal Acquisition Regulations System, Chapter 1, Part 31, et seq., shall be used to determine the allowability of individual PROJECT cost items.
I. Every sub-recipient receiving PROJECT funds under this AGREEMENT shall comply with 2 CFR, Part 200, 23 CFR, 48 CFR Chapter 1, Part 31, Local Assistance Procedures, Public Contract Code (PCC) 10300-10334 (procurement of goods), PCC 10335-10381 (non-A&E services), and other applicable STATE and FEDERAL regulations.
J. Any PROJECT costs for which ADMINISTERING AGENCY has received payment or credit that are determined by subsequent audit to be unallowable under 2 CFR, Part 200, 23 CFR, 48 CFR, Chapter 1, Part 31, and other applicable STATE and FEDERAL regulations, are subject to repayment by ADMINISTERING AGENCY to STATE.
K. STATE reserves the right to conduct technical and financial audits of PROJECT WORK and records and ADMINISTERING AGENCY agrees, and shall require its contractors and subcontractors to agree, to cooperate with STATE by making all appropriate and relevant PROJECT records available for audit and copying as required by the following paragraph:
ADMINISTERING AGENCY, ADMINISTERING AGENCY'S contractors and subcontractors, and STATE shall each maintain and make available for inspection and audit by STATE, the California State Auditor, or any duly authorized representative of STATE or the United States all books, documents, papers, accounting records, and other evidence pertaining to the performance of such contracts, including, but not limited to, the costs of administering those various contracts and ADMINISTERING AGENCY shall furnish copies thereof if requested.
All of the above referenced parties shall make such AGREEMENT, PROGRAM SUPPLEMENT, and contract materials available at their respective offices at all reasonable times during the entire PROJECT period and for three (3) years from the date of submission of the final expenditure report by the STATE to the FHWA.
L. ADMINISTERING AGENCY, its contractors and subcontractors shall establish and maintain a financial management system and records that properly accumulate and segregate reasonable, allowable, and allocable incurred PROJECT costs and matching funds by line item for the PROJECT. The financial management system
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SPECIAL COVENANTS OR REMARKS
09-KER-0-RGCR
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of ADMINISTERING AGENCY, its contractors and all subcontractors shall conform to Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, enable the determination of incurred costs at interim points of completion, and provide support for reimbursement payment vouchers or invoices set to or paid by STATE.
M. ADMINISTERING AGENCY is required to have an audit in accordance with the Single Audit Act of 2 CFR 200 if it expends $750,000 or more in Federal Funds in a single fiscal year of the Catalogue of Federal Domestic Assistance.
N. ADMINISTERING AGENCY agrees to include all PROGRAM SUPPLEMENTS adopting the terms of this AGREEMENT in the schedule of projects to be examined in ADMINISTERING AGENCY's annual audit and in the schedule of projects to be examined under its single audit prepared in accordance with 2 CFR, Part 200.
O. ADMINISTERING AGENCY shall not award a non-A&E contract over $5,000, construction contracts over $10,000, or other contracts over $25,000 [excluding professional service contracts of the type which are required to be procured in accordance with Government Code sections 4525 (d), (e) and (f)] on the basis of a noncompetitive negotiation for work to be performed under this AGREEMENT without the prior written approval of STATE. Contracts awarded by ADMINISTERING AGENCY, if intended as local match credit, must meet the requirements set forth in this AGREEMENT regarding local match funds.
P. Any subcontract entered into by ADMINISTERING AGENCY as a result of this AGREEMENT shall contain provisions B, C, F, H, I, K, and L under Section 2 of this agreement.
3. Appendix E of the Title VI Assurances (US DOT Order 1050.2A) During the performance of this agreement, the ADMINISTERING AGENCY, ADMINISTERING AGENCY'S contractors and subcontractor, (hereinafter referred to as the "contractor") agrees to comply with the following nondiscrimination statutes and authorities; including but not limited to:
Pertinent Nondiscrimination Authorities:
A. Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (42 U.S.C. 2000d et seq., 78 stat. 252), (prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin); and 49 CFR Part 21.
B. The Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970, (42 U.S.C. 4601), (prohibits unfair treatment of persons displaced or whose property has been acquired because of Federal or Federal-aid programs and projects); C. Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1973, (23 U.S.C. 324 et seq.), (prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex);
D. Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, (29 U.S.C. 794 et seq.), as Program Supplement 09-5385F15-F050- ISTEA Page 6 of 7
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amended, (prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability); and 49 CFR Part 27; E. The Age Discrimination Act of 1975, as amended, (42 U.S.C. 6101 et seq.), (prohibits discrimination on the basis of age);
F. Airport and Airway Improvement Act of 1982, (49 U.S.C. 4 71, Section 4 7123), as amended, (prohibits discrimination based on race, creed, color, national origin, or sex); G. The Civil Rights Restoration Act of 1987, (PL 100-209), (Broadened the scope, coverage and applicability of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, The Age Discrimination Act of 1975 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, by expanding the definition of the terms "programs or
activities" to include all of the programs or activities of the Federal-aid recipients, subrecipients and contractors, whether such programs or activities are Federally funded or not);
H. Titles II and III of the Americans with Disabilities Act, which prohibit discrimination on the basis of disability in the operation of public entities, public and private transportation systems, places of public accommodation, and certain testing entities (42 U.S.C. 12131-12189) as implemented by Department of Transportation regulations at 49 C.F.R. parts 37 and 38; I. The Federal Aviation Administration's Nondiscrimination statute (49 U.S.C. 47123) (prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, and sex); J. Executive Order 13166, Improving Access to Services for Persons with Limited English Proficiency, and resulting agency guidance, national origin discrimination includes discrimination because of limited English proficiency (LEP). To ensure compliance with Title VI, you must take reasonable steps to ensure that LEP persons have meaningful access to your programs (70 Fed. Reg. at 74087 to 74100);
K. Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, as amended, which prohibits you from discriminating because of sex in education programs or activities (20 U.S.C. 1681 et seq).
Program Supplement 09-5385F15-F050- ISTEA Page 7 of 7
RESOLUTION NO. 25-Xx
A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE PROGRAM SUPPLEMENT
AGREEMENT NO. F050 WITH THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA,
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION, FOR S. MAHAN ST.
RECONSTRUCTION PHASE I, BOWMAN RD. TO DOLPHIN AVE. AND
AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER, RON STRAND TO SIGN THE
PROGRAM SUPPLEMENT.
WHEREAS, The City of Ridgecrest is eligible to receive Federal and/or State funding for certain transportation projects, through the California Department of Transportation; and WHEREAS, A Program Supplemental Agreement needs to be executed with the California Department of Transportation before such funds can be claimed; and WHEREAS, This Program Supplement is for the Construction (CON) & Preliminary Engineering (PE) work (design, etc.) that is needed during the S. Mahan Reconstruction Phase I project; and
WHEREAS, The funds being received are from the Regional Surface Transportation Program (RSTP) in the amount of $1,671,130; and
WHEREAS, The City’s matching funds are $1,965,298.00 for the CON, PE, & CE work; inclusive of the Phase II project that was recently applied for; and WHEREAS, The matching funds will come from Measure V Funds; and WHEREAS, The State requires that one person in the local agency be designated to sign the agreements with the State; and
WHEREAS, The City’s Master Agreement with the State stipulates the City Manager as the designated person
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest hereby:
1. Approves the Program Supplement Agreement No. F050 with the State of California, Department Of Transportation, Under Master Agreement No. 09- 5385F15.
2. Authorizes the use of Measure V funds as the City’s match.
3. Authorizes the Finance Director to amend the budget to reflect all appropriate expenditures, revenue and transfer accounts.
4. Authorizes The City Manager, Ronald Strand, To Sign the Program Supplement Agreement No. F050 for the Con., PE, & CE work required for the project.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 6th day of August, 2025 by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Travis Endicott, Mayor
ATTEST:
Ricca Charlon
City Clerk
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5 This Page Intentionally Left Blank
Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority
STAFF REPORT
SUBJECT:
An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest Amending the Ridgecrest Municipal Code Regarding Landscape Maintenance
PRESENTED BY:
Heather Spurlock
SUMMARY:
Background
The Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (WELO) was adopted in 2016 to enhance water efficiency in landscaping. Since its implementation and the rise in water costs, landscaping in commercial centers has faced challenges. Many commercial centers have upgraded their landscaping by using drought-resistant plants and efficient irrigation systems. However, some areas still struggle with dead grass, unkept shrubs, and poorly maintained trees. The purpose of this ordinance is to establish standards and maintenance for commercial landscaped areas.
The Planning Commission has heard and recommended adoption of this ordinance. Planning Commission discussions resulted in the inclusion of landscape coverage and planting requirements. The Commission also addressed the implementation of these changes for existing businesses. Businesses that have landscaping in need of correction will receive information about the new standards. Emphasis will be placed on ensuring compliance without imposing undue burdens, which will include extended timelines for repairs and a phased approach to landscaping upgrades.
Proposed Ordinance
Sec. 106-23. Maintenance required. (Amended)
All landscaping and irrigation systems must be consistently maintained. Maintenance activities include regular watering, mowing, pruning, fertilizing, clearing debris and weeds, monitoring for pests and diseases, removing and replacing dead plants, and repairing the irrigation system and its components.
Definitions:
“Hardscape materials are non-living components used to create outdoor structures and surfaces. These materials include stone, concrete, brick, gravel, and pebbles.”
Sec. 106-40 – Commercial Landscaping Standards (New)
A. Purpose.
The purpose of this Section is to enhance commercial corridors by utilizing low-maintenance, drought-tolerant landscaping featuring water-efficient plants and hardscape materials.
B. General.
1) All commercial projects must meet the minimum landscape coverage for lot area established in Table 1 Landscape Coverage for Site Areas
Table 1
Zone Percentage
CG, CS, CN, PO 5%
M1, M2 2%
2) All setbacks, parkways, and storage areas visible from a public street or parking lot must be landscaped. 3) Trees and shrubs must be planted in such a way that, at maturity, they do not interfere with utility service lines, street lighting, street sweeping, traffic safety sightlines, on-site signage, or the property rights of adjacent owners. 4) Landscape areas must utilize plant materials and methods that are suitable for the site's soil and climate conditions. The selection of water-efficient, drought-tolerant plants is mandatory.
Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority
STAFF REPORT
5) All landscaped areas must be equipped with a city-approved automatic irrigation system, with separate systems designated for trees and shrubs.
6) All projects with over 2,500 square feet of landscaping must comply with Government Code Section 5591 et seq. to promote water conservation.
7) Planting Requirements. The following quantities of plants shall be installed at the time of planting:
1) Trees.
a) Twenty-five percent (25%) twenty-four (24) inch box. b) Seventy-five percent (75%) fifteen (15) gallon.
2) Shrubs.
a) Seventy-five percent (75%) five (5) gallon.
b) Twenty-five percent (25%) one (1) gallon.
3) Groundcover.
a) One hundred percent (100%) coverage within one (1) year of planting.
C. Exceptions. The minimum landscape coverage requirements may be reduced by the Community Development Manager or Public Works Director, in a commercial or industrial zone if a finding is made that it is impractical or infeasible to meet the minimum standards.
Recommended Motions:
Motion to Waive Reading in Full of an Ordinance of the City of Ridgecrest, to Amend the Ridgecrest Municipal Code Regarding Landscape Maintenance
Requires A Second
Motion to Introduce, By Title Only, an Ordinance of The City Council Of Ridgecrest, Amending Portions of the Ridgecrest Municipal Code Regarding Landscape Maintenance.
Requires A Second
FISCAL IMPACT:
None
ACTION REQUESTED:
Approve recommended motions.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION:
Recommends Approval
Submitted by: Heather Spurlock Action Date: August 6, 2025 (Revised Jan2019)
DRAFT ORDINANCE NO. 25-
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RIDGECREST AMENDING THE RIDGECREST MUNICIPAL
CODE REGARDING LANDSCAPING MAINTENANCE
WHEREAS, the City desires to ensure that commercial development occurs in a prudently effective manner, in accordance with reasonable planning principles; and
WHEREAS, the City wishes to enhance and clarify landscape maintenance and installation requirements for both residential and commercial uses; and
WHEREAS, on July 22, 2025, the Planning Commission conducted a duly noticed public hearing to consider these municipal code amendments and voted to recommend to the City Council that they adopt this ordinance.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RIDGECREST, CALIFORNIA DOES HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The recitals above are true and correct and incorporated herein by reference.
SECTION 2. Section 106-23 (Maintenance of landscaped areas) of ARTICLE I (IN GENERAL) of Chapter 106 (ZONING) of the Ridgecrest Municipal Code is hereby amended in its entirety to read as follows (underlining denotes additions, strikethrough denotes deletions):
“Sec. 106-23. – Maintenance of landscaped areas.
All landscaping and irrigation systems must be consistently maintained. Maintenance activities include regular watering, mowing, pruning, fertilizing, clearing debris and weeds, monitoring for pests and diseases, removing and replacing dead plants, and repairing the irrigation system and its components.”
SECTION 3. Section 106-2 (Definitions) of ARTICLE I (IN GENERAL) of Chapter 106 (ZONING) of Ridgecrest Municipal Code is hereby amended to include the addition of the defined term Hardscape materials (underlining denotes additions, strikethrough denotes deletions):
“Hardscape materials are non-living components used to create outdoor structures and surfaces. These materials include stone, concrete, brick, gravel, and pebbles.”
SECTION 4. Section 106-40 (Maintenance of landscaped areas) of ARTICLE I (IN GENERAL) of Chapter 106 (ZONING) of Ridgecrest Municipal Code is hereby added in its entirety to read as follows (underlining denotes additions, strikethrough denotes deletions):
“Sec. 106-40 – Commercial Landscaping Standards
A. Purpose.
The purpose of this Section is to enhance commercial corridors by utilizing low-maintenance, drought-tolerant landscaping featuring water-efficient plants and hardscape materials.
B. General.
1) All commercial projects must meet the minimum landscape coverage for lot area established in Table 1 Landscape Coverage for Site Areas
Table 1
Zone Percentage
CG, CS, CN, PO 5%
M1, M2 2%
2) All setbacks, parkways, and storage areas visible from a public street or parking lot must be landscaped. 3) Trees and shrubs must be planted in such a way that, at maturity, they do not interfere with utility service lines, street lighting, street sweeping, traffic safety sightlines, on-site signage, or the property rights of adjacent owners. 4) Landscape areas must utilize plant materials and methods that are suitable for the site's soil and climate conditions. The selection of waterefficient, drought-tolerant plants is mandatory. 5) All landscaped areas must be equipped with a city-approved automatic irrigation system, with separate systems designated for trees and shrubs. 6) All projects with over 2,500 square feet of landscaping must comply with Government Code Section 5591 et seq. to promote water conservation. 7) Planting Requirements. The following quantities of plants shall be installed at the time of planting:
1) Trees.
a) 25% coverage in 10 years, and 50% shade coverage in 20 years 2) Shrubs.
a) 5% coverage at maturity
3) Groundcover (includes hardscaping materials, synthetic turf, and decorative boulders) a) One hundred percent (100%) coverage within one year of planting C. Exceptions. The minimum landscape coverage requirements may be reduced by the Community Development Manager or Public Works Director, in a commercial or industrial zone if a finding is made that it is impractical or infeasible to meet the minimum standards.” SECTION 5. This Ordinance is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) under the following provisions of the CEQA Guidelines: Section 15268 because there is no possibility that it may have a significant effect upon the environment as a ministerial permitting requirement.
SECTION 6. Any provision of the Ridgecrest Municipal Code or appendices thereto inconsistent with the provisions of this Ordinance, to the extent of such inconsistencies and no further, is hereby repealed or modified to the extent necessary to implement the provisions of his Ordinance.
SECTION 7. If any section, subsection, subdivision, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase of this Ordinance, or any part thereof is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by a decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance or any part thereof. The City Council hereby declares that it would have passed each section, subsection, subdivision, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more section, subsection, subdivision, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase would be subsequently declared invalid or unconstitutional.
SECTION 8. The Mayor shall sign and the City Clerk shall attest to the passage of this Ordinance. The City Clerk shall cause the same to be published once in the official newspaper within fifteen (15) days after its adoption. This Ordinance shall become effective thirty (30) days after adoption.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest at the regular meeting of this ___ day of _______________, 2025.
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
_
Martin Koczanowicz, City Attorney
APPROVED AND ADOPTED: This ___ day of ___________, 2025 by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Travis Endicott, Mayor
ATTEST:
Ricca Charlon, City Clerk