Ridgecrest City Council
September 3, 2025

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
September 3, 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.

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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
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RIDGECREST CITY COUNCIL

SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY

FINANCING AUTHORITY

HOUSING AUTHORITY

AGENDA
Wednesday, September 3, 2025 Regular Session – 6:00 p.m.

CALL TO ORDER

ROLL CALL

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

REGULAR SESSION
• Pledge Of Allegiance
• Invocation

PRESENTATIONS
Hunger Action Month Proclamation
FY2024 Measure P Report
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

DISCUSSION / ACTION ITEMS

2. Discussion And Appointments To Personnel Board

3. A Resolution Of The Ridgecrest City Council Adopting An Addendum To The Environmental Impact Report For The Construction Of A New Wastewater Treatment Plant And Amending The Adopted Mitigation Monitoring And Reporting Program

4. Adoption Of Resolution Instituting Rules of Order For Council Meetings

ORDINANCES

5. Second Reading And Adoption Of Ordinance An Ordinance Of The City Council Of The City Of Ridgecrest Amending The Ridgecrest Municipal Code Regarding Commercial Landscape Maintenance

AGENDA - CITY COUNCIL / SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY / FINANCING AUTHORITY / HOUSING AUTHORITY REGULAR – September 3, 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, 1st Floor
➢ Next meeting October 6, 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
➢ Next meeting September 9, 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 September 4, 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
➢ Report from September 2, 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
PROCLAIMING SEPTEMBER 2025

HUNGER ACTION MONTH
WHEREAS, hunger and poverty are issues of vital concern in Kern County where in 2022 15.9% of people face hunger in Kern County and 22.1% of children do not know where their next meal will come from; and,
WHEREAS, everyone needs nutritious food to thrive, and in every community in America, people are working hard to provide for themselves and their families – yet in 2022, 44 million people – 1 in 7 – including more than 13 million children – 1 in 5 – faced food insecurity in the U.S. That includes more than 144,000 residents in Kern County; and,
WHEREAS, the Wonderful Community Food Center at the Community Action Partnership of Kern (CAPK) Food Bank is committed to working alongside various partners and organizations to fight these food insecurity numbers in Kern County; and,
WHEREAS, the CAPK Food Bank has over 200,000 interactions with community members a month; and, WHEREAS, the CAPK Food Bank distributed over 22 million pounds of food through more 200 pantry and commodity locations throughout Kern County; and,
WHEREAS, the month of September has been designated “Hunger Action Month” in order to bring attention to food insecurity in our communities and to enlist the public in the movement to end hunger by talking action – including volunteering, social media campaigns, donations and the Annual Feed the Need Food Drive at the Kern County Fair - to ensure the community, and everybody in it, has the food they need to thrive.

WHEREAS, food banks across the county, including the CAPK Food Bank will host numerous events throughout the month of September to bring awareness and help end hunger in Kern County; NOW, THEREFORE, The Ridgecrest City Council, hereby proclaims September 2025 as Hunger Action Month in recognition of the hard work and dedication throughout the community Proclaimed this 3
rd Day of September, 2025
Travis Endicott
Mayor

Kyle Blades
Mayor Pro-Tem
Solomon P. Rajaratnam
Vice Mayor
L. Scott Hayman
Council Member
John ‘Skip’ Gorman
Council Member
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Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority

STAFF REPORT
SUBJECT:

Presentation of FY2024 Measure P Report
PRESENTED BY:

Measure P Committee
SUMMARY:

Presentation of FY2024 Measure P Report
FISCAL IMPACT: None
ACTION REQUESTED: Receive and File FY2024 Measure P Report CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION: Action as requested
Submitted by: Action Date: September 3, 2025
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MEASURE P

ANNUAL REPORT
For Fiscal Year Ending June 30, 2024
CITIZEN’S OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE
1 INTRODUCTION
The fiscal year 2023-2024 (FY24) report is the
second annual report prepared by the
Oversight Committee regarding the use of
revenue from Measure P sales tax. City of
Ridgecrest Ordinance 22-06 Chapter 9, Article
86 (2022) requires that a report be generated
annually by the Oversight Committee regarding
the usage of Measure P funds. The committee
is dedicated to the oversight of these funds and
will maintain reporting standards as outlined in
the Ridgecrest Municipal Code (9.3.2.79-83).

WHAT IS MEASURE P?
Measure P is a local sales and use tax measure approved in 2022 for the City of Ridgecrest to adopt a one cent tax on general sales for a nine-year term, expiring in 2032. This measure was approved based on a commitment from the City Council that the funds would be used to address priorities identified by the public such as:
 Fire Service Contract Costs
 Reinstatement of 4 Police Officer
positions
 Rebuilding Pinney Pool
 Recruitment and Retention of City
service providers
 Public Outreach and Events
 Additional Projects contingent on
available funding

TRACKING MEASURE P FUNDS
Despite Measure P being a General Fund tax, a distinct fund has been established to segregate the funds, facilitating their separate tracking within the City’s financial system to enhance transparency and accountability. Fund 101, designated as the Measure P fund, serves as the sole repository for Measure P funds, ensuring a clear delineation of resources. The majority of Measure P expenses originate from Fund 101, aligning with its dedicated purpose. However, it's noteworthy that one exception exists, where a transfer to the General Fund 100 is made specifically for recruitment and retention purposes, emphasizing the strategic allocation of resources to address critical needs within the community.

SOURCE OF REPORT DATA
The Committee reviewed financial data from the City of Ridgecrest ACFR (Annual Comprehensive Financial Report) and the City of Ridgecrest Finance Department. The ACFR includes the results of the City’s annual independent audit. This report and the audit results are available to the public by visiting: https://www.ridgecrest-ca.gov.
2 PURPOSE OF THE CITIZEN’S

OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE
Measure P was passed by voters in 2022. As
mandated by City of Ridgecrest Ordinance
22-06 Chapter 9, Article 86, this report
serves as a crucial mechanism for ensuring
accountability and adherence to the
priorities outlined by the public.

The Committee regularly met every third
Monday after the initial meeting in March
2025 to review and ensure that Fiscal Year
2024 Measure P expenditures were aligned
with the City Council’s commitments.

CITIZEN’S OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE MEMBERS
The three duties of the Committee are listed
in Chapter 9, Article 3, Division 2, Section 9.83
of the Ridgecrest Municipal Code.
 Review all appropriations of revenues
received by the City from the sales and
use tax
 Review the City’s Annual Comprehensive
Financial Report (ACFR)
 Prepare and issue the committee’s report
on their findings
The second annual report for fiscal year 2023-
2024 reaffirms the Measure P Citizen's
Oversight Committee’s ongoing commitment
to transparent review and oversight of the
revenue generated by the Measure P sales
tax. The Committee continues to fulfill its
responsibilities as outlined in the Ridgecrest
Municipal Code, maintaining the
community's trust and supporting the city's
continued growth and well-being.

THE 2025 COMMITTEE MEMBERS ARE:

Todd St. Laurent
Chair, Program Manager
Bradley Patin
Vice Chair, Business Owner
Holly Staab
Configuration and Data Manager
Denise Gorman
Ranch Manager
Elidia Dixon
Real Time Telemetry
3 Sales Tax
19%
Measure L & V
26%
Measure P
26%
Other Taxes
29%
Sales Tax Measure L & V Measure P Other Taxes
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024
Measure P revenue accounted for 26% of the city’s total tax revenue in FY24 (the Measure’s first full year). As Measure P funding becomes a more prominent pillar of the City’s revenue structure, the Citizen’s Oversight Committee remains steadfast in its responsibility to provide oversight in reporting how Measure P funds are expended by the city.

Total Tax Revenue for Fiscal Year 2024 $ 23,574,160
Total From Sales Tax $ 4,625,811
Total From Measure L & V $ 6,103,738
Total From Measure P $ 6,057,751
Other Taxes $ 6,786,860
4 FINDINGS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024

GENERAL
Actual FY24 Measure P revenues totaled $6,078,017, slightly below the amended budget of $6,476,250. Despite this slight shortfall in projected revenue, expenditures also came in below the budgeted amount. There were no expenditures recorded for the Pool Bond or Pool Operations and Maintenance, due to the project is still being in its design and engineering phase.

As a result, $2,902,528 FY24 revenue is carried over into the next fiscal year. When added to the carryover amount of $935,065 from FY23, the total carryover (~$3.8 million) provides flexibility to accommodate pool construction expenses and increasing Fire Services Contract costs. 2ND YEAR - 2023/2024 AMENDED
BUDGET
ACTUAL

AMOUNTS
CARRY OVER FROM FY 2023 $ 935,065
REVENUES:

SALES TAX - MEASURE P $ 6,466,000 $ 6,057,751
REVENUE - INVESTMENT EARNINGS $ 250 $ 11,231
REVENUE - COMMUNITY EVENTS $ 10,000 $ 9,035
TOTAL REVENUES $ 6,476,250 $ 6,078,017
EXPENDITURES:

FIRE CONTRACT $ 583,232 $ 583,232
POLICE POSITIONS $ 603,568 $ 758,997
CITY POSITIONS $ 180,734 $ 193,237
RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION $ 350,000 $ 455,000
POOL DESIGN AND ENGINEERING COSTS $ 2,648,670 $ 1,061,929 POOL BOND $ - $ -
POOL OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE $ - $ -
PUBLIC OUTREACH $ 162,189 $ 123,094
TOTAL EXPENDITURES $ 4,528,393 $ 3,175,489
REVENUE OVER EXPENDITURE $ 1,947,857 $ 2,902,528
AMOUNT TO CARRY OVER TO FY 2025 $ 3,837,593
5 The FY 2024 Measure P expenditures demonstrate disciplined financial management and strategic allocation of resources by the City of Ridgecrest. Out of the $4.53 million in amended budgeted expenditures, only $3.18 million was actually spent, reflecting an underspend of over $1.35 million. This variance was driven largely by the phased implementation of key projects, most notably the Pinney Pool.

Recruitment and
Retention
17%
Public Outreach
7%
Police Positions
24%
Pinney Pool Rebuild
34%
Fire Contract
18%
FISCAL YEAR 2024 MEASURE P EXPENDITURES
6 FIRE SERVICE CONTRACT COSTS
Expenditures
Adopted
Budget
Amended
Budget Expensed % Utilized
KC Fire Services $ 583,232 $ 583,232 $ 583,232 100%
The combination of the revised fire services contract and the implementation of Measure P reflects the City’s proactive approach to ensuring adequate funding for essential services, including fire protection, emergency medical response, and infrastructure maintenance.

Application of these resources effectively demonstrate the growing costs of maintaining the fire services contract in Ridgecrest, as the city aims to enhance public safety and sustain the quality of services to its residents.

The FY23 Oversight Committee report stated that the $415,183 budgeted/expensed for the FY23 fire services contract was paid out of the General Fund, and the Measure P funds would reimburse that amount during FY24. An accounting error resulted in that reimbursement showing as expensed in FY23. As a result, the reported carryover from FY23 of $1,354,705 was reduced to $935,065. This did not result in any shortfalls for FY24 expenditures, and the City is well prepared to cover future fire service contract costs, despite projections for significant cost growth, from $583,232 in FY24 to $1,486,711 by FY28.

POLICE POSITIONS
Police Positions Funded by Measure P
Police Officer x4
Kennel Attendant
Police Dispatcher
Police Clerk
Expenditures
Adopted
Budget
Amended
Budget Expensed % Utilized
Police Positions $ 603,568 $ 603,568 $ 758,997 126%
- Salary & Benefits
In FY 2024, Measure P funds continued to play a critical role in supporting public safety staffing for the Ridgecrest Police Department. The reinstatement of 4 officer positions in FY23 was important in supporting public safety and reducing 911 response times. The city continued to budget for additional support staff (dispatcher, clerk, kennel attendant) in FY24 helping ensure the department can meet administrative and operational demands. Although the police positions exceeded their specific budget allocation, the overall Measure P fund remained in surplus, primarily due to underspending in other areas (e.g., delayed pool project expenditures). The availability of carryover funds from prior years and underspending in other projects allowed the City to absorb the police budget overage without requiring adjustments to the broader financial plan.
7 CITY POSITIONS, RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION
Positions Funded by Measure P
Human Resources Administrator
Admin Analyst II - CED
Admin Analyst - CED P/T
Expenditures
Adopted
Budget
Amended
Budget Expensed % Utilized
Measure P Positions $ 180,734 $ 180,734 $ 193,237 107%
- Salary & Benefits
Transfer Out to Fund 100 $ 350,000 $ 350,000 $ 455,000 130% Efforts to recruit and retain city service providers remained a cornerstone in ensuring the delivery of essential services to Ridgecrest residents during the fiscal year ending June 30,2024. Over the course of FY24, Recruiting and Retention expenditure totaled $648,247.

Measure P paid for full-time positions described as Human Resources Administrator, Admin Analyst II – CED; and a single part-time position described as Admin Analyst – CED. Total expenditure, covering salaries and benefits was $193,237, against a budgeted cost of $180,734, or 107% or the Amended Budget. Note that the two new Admin Analysts discussed in this section were hired to support Public Outreach, as discussed under the Public Outreach subheading.

Measure P funds were additionally used for recruitment and retention of employees not paid directly by Measure P. Funding totaling $455,000 was transferred to Fund 100 for that stated purpose during FY24 against the budgeted amount totaling $350,000. The amount over the budget is explainable as a prior fiscal year transfer of $105,000, that was completed in FY24.

Those FY23 funds were used to facilitate adjustments to salary schedules and cover increases in medical insurance contributions, as described in the FY23 Annual Report.

REBUILDING PINNEY POOL
Expenditures
Adopted
Budget
Amended
Budget Expensed % Utilized
Professional Services $ 250,000 $ 2,648,670 $ 1,061,929 40% - Design &
Engineering
In Fiscal Year 2024, the City of Ridgecrest made substantial progress on the Pinney Pool Rebuild Project, a top-priority initiative funded through Measure P. The year focused heavily on advancing the design and engineering phase of the pool, with detailed plans developed to meet the community’s demand for a modern aquatic facility. Features under development include competitive swim lanes, children’s splash areas, shaded spectator seating, and ADAaccessible infrastructure. The City adopted an amended budget of $2,648,670 for professional 8 services related to the project, reflecting both the expanded scope of planning and a rollover of unspent funds from FY23. By the close of FY24, a total of $1,061,929 had been expended— representing 40% utilization of the amended project budget.

The Pinney Pool project accounted for 34% of all Measure P expenditures in FY24, the largest share among all initiatives funded by the measure. This significant investment highlights the City’s continued commitment to delivering a long-promised recreational facility that enhances public health, youth engagement, and community wellness. Revenues from Measure P totaled $6,057,751 in FY24, with sufficient funds carried over to support the next phase of the pool project, including preparations for future construction. The Oversight Committee can confidently report that the City is demonstrating sound fiscal management and alignment with Measure P’s objectives, ensuring that the Pinney Pool remains a well-funded and progressing capital project.

PUBLIC OUTREACH
Revenue
Adopted
Budget
Amended
Budget Received % Utilized
Community Events $ 10,000 $ 10,000 $ 9,035 90%
Expenditures
Adopted
Budget
Amended
Budget Expensed % Utilized
Professional Services $ 10,000 $ 12,189 $ 1,938 16%
Operating Supplies $ 150,000 $ 150,000 $ 121,156 81%
TOTAL $ 160,000 $ 162,189 $ 123,094 76%
The City of Ridgecrest hosted seven special events during FY24 to include City Nights on and off Balsam and the Christmas Tree Lighting. These events were all very well attended, on average drawing more than 3000, with an estimated 5400 attending the Tree Lighting.

Additionally, numerous Farmers Markets were hosted, each drawing hundreds of attendees.

Community feedback for these events is very positive, and City Staff to citizen suggestions and feedback.

Expenditures included, but were not limited to, consumable supplies, items that are reused for multiple events, event insurance, health permits and emergency services. The revenue in this category was generated by vendor fees collected at community events. Although the City’s goal is not to make money from these events, vendors are charged to help cover event costs.

The City also used Measure P funds in this category to sponsor community events the City is not responsible for. In FY24 Measure P contributed $15,000 to the community’s Fourth of July fireworks show put on by the Desert Empire Fair, $5,000 to the Desert Empire Fair for the Tunnel to Towers attraction, and $3,000 to High Sierra Cyclists in support of the Ridgecrest Desert Classic Bike Race. Like the City’s hosted events, all of the events that benefited from Measure P funding were well-attended, popular events benefiting Ridgecrest citizens and bettering our community.
9 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
The Oversight Committee can confidently report that the City is administering Measure P funding expenditures according to the Measure P priorities identified by the public, such as:
• Fire Service Contract Costs
• Public Outreach and Events
• Reinstatement of four Police Officer Positions
• Recruitment and Retention of City Service Providers
• Rebuilding Pinney Pool
In FY24 the Fire Service Contract was fully funded according to the budgeted amount. Public Outreach and Events were also fully funded and came in slightly under budget. Additionally, four (4) Police Officers were reinstated, and the City hired a Kennel Attendant, Police Dispatcher and Police Clerk, bolstering public safety and reducing response times. The City also relied on Measure P funding in support of Recruitment and Retention. The City additionally hired a Human Resources Administrator, Admin Analyst II and part-time Admin Analyst. Costs for hiring in the categories of Police and City Service Providers each exceeded amended budget amounts, yet the over-budget amounts were small when evaluated against the City’s total budget and total Measure P revenue which resulted in an FY24 surplus of $2,902,528 (total surplus including FY23 surplus grew to $3,837,593.) The surplus generated by Measure P easily paid for these overages, yet the Committee believes it remains important that Measure P funds continue to be conservatively managed to fund bond-related impounds and costs, and to address project risks that could be encountered during pool complex construction. If construction bids come in higher than budgeted or costly construction issues are encountered, the Measure P Oversight Committee learned that the City would plan to reduce project scope by reducing supportive infrastructure spending on things like signaled crosswalks and interior building finishes. Therefore. it is the recommendation of the committee that Measure P funds be safeguarded for pool complex completion and that further spending to grow the City’s workforce under any of the respective Measure P subheadings be closely scrutinized. Doing so will prevent labor costs from infringing on the Pinney Pool budget before final bids have been received and construction and sustainment costs are fully understood. Also, while only 40% of the budget for Design & Engineering was expended in FY24, additional project costs in Design & Engineering are likely in FY25. The total Pinney Pool project cost was still only an estimated amount at the time this report was generated, and the final project schedule is still to be determined against the City’s completion objectives. The Committee observes that each of these factors will influence future budget requirements.

Finally, the Committee noted that FY24 annual revenue generated by Measure P was less than the projected amount. While this is to be expected with variations in the sales tax base, the Committee learned that some portions of reduced collections are purportedly due to a lack of collections implementations with corresponding reduced payments to the City. Thus, the Oversight Committee recommends that the City act to increase awareness and collections implementations as required to ensure the integrity of Measure P revenue into the future. 10 In summary, the Oversight Committed found that Measure P revenues are being appropriated in accordance with Ridgecrest Citizens’ priorities. In 2024 progress was made in advancing Public Safety and enhancing the City’s staff to better support the needs of Ridgecrest residents. Further, the design and engineering of Pinney Pool complex, which holds significant public interest and the interest of the Oversight Committee, continued to make steady progress. Therefore, we encourage City officials to continue their diligent management of Measure P allocations to maintain excellent city services, and to above all ensure timely and successful delivery of a state-of-the-art Pinney Pool complex for the enjoyment of current and future Ridgecrest residents.

Recommendations Summary

1. It is the recommendation of the Oversight Committee that Measure P funds be safeguarded for Pinney Pool complex completion and that further spending to grow the City’s workforce under any of the respective Measure P subheadings be closely scrutinized.

2. The Oversight Committee recommends that the City act to increase awareness and collections implementations as required to ensure the integrity of Measure P revenue collections.

3. Although Public Outreach accounts for less than 5% of Measure P spending, attention to detail in this category will leave less room for questioning what counts as Public Outreach. Estimated attendance and overall spending is tracked, but the Committee would like to see reports in coming years that break down expenditures by event with categories for consumable goods, services and reusable goods.

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Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority

STAFF REPORT
SUBJECT: Proposed Action To Approve Draft Minutes Of The Ridgecrest City Council PRESENTED BY: Ricca Charlon, City Clerk
SUMMARY:

Draft Minutes of the City Council / Successor Redevelopment Agency / Housing Authority / Financing Authority Regular Meeting July 16, 2025
Draft Minutes of the City Council / Successor Redevelopment Agency / Housing Authority / Financing Authority Regular Meeting August 6, 2025
Draft Minutes of the City Council / Successor Redevelopment Agency / Housing Authority / Financing Authority Regular Meeting August 20, 2025
FISCAL IMPACT: None
ACTION REQUESTED: Approve minutes
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION: Action as requested
Submitted by: Ricca Charlon Action Date: Sept 3, 2025
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RIDGECREST CITY COUNCIL

SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY

FINANCING AUTHORITY

HOUSING AUTHORITY

DRAFT MINUTES
Wednesday, July 16, 2025 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 Endicott; Mayor Pro-Tem Blades; Vice Mayor Rajaratnam; Council Member Hayman; Council Member Gorman

Absent: None
Staff Present: City Attorney M. Koczanowicz (Webex); City Manager Strand; City Clerk Charlon APPROVAL OF AGENDA - Attorney asked to add a need arose item as #14 – Motion To Approve Addition - Hayman – Blades – 5 ayes. Motion To Approve agenda as amended – Rajaratnam – Gorman - 5 ayes.

REGULAR SESSION

PRESENTATIONS

1. Lifesaving Award – Officer Matt Rowland

PUBLIC COMMENT OF ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA – J. Weissmuller, S. Christman, S.

Kirkpatrick, Brenda, T. Wiknich, M. Sinnott, unknown caller

COUNCIL ANNOUNCEMENTS/DIRECTION

CONSENT CALENDAR

2. Proposed Action To Approve Draft Minutes Of The Ridgecrest City Council Regular Meeting Dated June 18, 2025 Charlon

3. A Resolution Of The Ridgecrest City Council Approving The Acceptance Of The California Cannabis Tax Fund Grant Program Grant Funds Ysit

4. A Resolution Of The Ridgecrest City Council Approving The Application For Funds For The FY26/27 Congestion Mitigation Air Quality Program (CMAQ) And/or Carbon Reduction Program For The Procurement Of One (1) Battery-Electric Cutaway Bus; Committing The Necessary Local Match Funding And Assuring The Completion Of The Project Reed

5. A Resolution Regarding The Annual Assessments For The Drainage Benefit Assessment District No. 2016-1 (The “District”); And Adoption Of The Resolution (1) Approving The Annual Engineer’s Report And (2) Ordering The Levy And Collection Of Assessments For Fiscal Year 2025/2026 Reed

6. A Resolution Regarding The Annual Assessments For The Consolidated Landscaping And Lighting District No. 2012-1 (The “District”); And Adoption Of The Resolution (1) Approving The Annual Engineer’s Report And (2) Ordering The Levy And Collection Of Assessments For Fiscal Year 2024/2025 Reed
Draft Minutes - CITY COUNCIL / SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY / FINANCING AUTHORITY / HOUSING AUTHORITY REGULAR – July 16, 2025

7. Resolution Of The City Council Of The City Of Ridgecrest To Levy And Collect Sewer Fees On The General Tax Rolls For Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Reed

8. Authorization For The City Manager, Ron Strand To Sign The Notice Of Completion For The Replacement Of Two 25-Ton Units In City Hall, Authorizing The City Clerk To File The Notice Of Completion And Authorizing The Release Of Retention Funds In The Amount Of Six Thousand Four Hundred Ninety-Nine Dollars And Thirty Cents ($6,499.30) Thirty Days After The Recordation Of The Notice Of Completion To Johnson Controls Inc. Wegener Motion To Approve Consent Calendar less items 3 & 4 – Blades - Hayman - 5 ayes Item 3 – Rajaratnam asked if there were any downsides to accepting the grant.

No public comments
Motion To Approve item 3 – Hayman, Blades - 4 ayes – 1 No (Rajaratnam) Item 4 – PW Director Reed presented the item
Public comments – S. Christman, R. Westa-lusk
Motion To Approve item 4 with discretion to PW director to adjust grant numbers as needed –Blades - Rajaratnam - 5 ayes

DISCUSSION / ACTION ITEMS

9. A Resolution Of The Ridgecrest City Council Approving The Application For Funds For The FY25/26 & FY26/27, Regional Surface Transportation Program (RSTP) And Highway Infrastructure Program (HIP) Under The Moving Ahead For Progress In The 21st Century (Map21) For The South Mahan Street Phase II Resurfacing Project Reed Public comments – T. Wiknich, Unknown speaker
Motion To Approve – Blades, Rajaratnam - 5 ayes

10. A Resolution Of The Ridgecrest City Council Approving The Application For Funds For The FY26/27, Regional Surface Transportation Program (RSTP) And Highway Infrastructure Program (HIP) Under The Moving Ahead For Progress In The 21st Century (Map-21) For The Phase I W. Las Flores Ave Rehabilitation Project Reed
Public comments – R. Westa-lusk
Motion To Approve – Blades, Endicott - 5 ayes

11. A Resolution Of The Ridgecrest City Council Approving The Application For Funds For The FY26/27, Regional Surface Transportation Program (RSTP) And Highway Infrastructure Program (HIP) Under The Moving Ahead For Progress In The 21st Century (Map-21) For The Phase II W Las Flores Ave Rehabilitation Project Reed
Public comments – None
Motion To Approve – Blades, Gorman- 5 ayes

12. A Resolution Of The Ridgecrest City Council Approving The Application For Funds For The FY26/27, Regional Surface Transportation Program (RSTP) And Highway Infrastructure Program (HIP) Under The Moving Ahead For Progress In The 21st Century (Map-21) For The Phase III W. Las Flores Ave Rehabilitation Project Reed Public comments – None
Motion To Approve – Rajaratnam - Gorman- 5 ayes
Draft Minutes - CITY COUNCIL / SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY / FINANCING AUTHORITY / HOUSING AUTHORITY REGULAR – July 16, 2025

13. A Resolution To Approve A Professional Service Agreement With Provost & Pritchard Consulting Group For An Amount Not To Exceed $470,000.00 For Preliminary Engineering Services For The East Bowman Channel Design, An OLDCC Grant Project; And Authorize The City Manager To Sign The Agreement Reed
Public comments – T. Wiknich
Motion To Approve – Rajaratnam, Gorman - 5 ayes

14. A Resolution Of The City Council Of The City Of Ridgecrest To Amend The Zero Tolerance Drug And Alcohol Testing Policy Attachment B, Updating The City's Designated Drug And Alcohol Program Manager, Medical Review Officer, And Substance Abuse Professional Reed Public comments – None
Motion To Approve – Hayman - Gorman - 5 ayes
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 – 9:00 p.m.

This Page Intentionally Left Blank

RIDGECREST CITY COUNCIL

SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY

FINANCING AUTHORITY

HOUSING AUTHORITY

DRAFT MINUTES
Wednesday, August 6, 2025 Regular Session – 6:00 p.m.

ROLL CALL – 6:00 PM
Council Present:Mayor Endicott; Mayor Pro-Tem Blades; Vice Mayor Rajaratnam; Council Member Hayman, Council Member Gorman
Staff Present: City Attorney M. Koczanowicz; City Manager Strand APPROVAL OF AGENDA – Motion to Approve with Moving item #4 prior to item #2- Endicott/Blades – 5 Ayes

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.

Public Comment Made by: T. Witnak, M. Neel

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
Motion to Approve the Consent Calendar – Blades/Gorman - 5 Ayes

DISCUSSION / ACTION ITEMS

2. Discussion Regarding The Board Of The Indian Wells Valley Groundwater Authority (IWVGA) Hayman
Public Comment heard by: M. Sinnott, M. Neel
No Action

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
Motion Approval – Hayman/Rajaratnam – 5 Ayes

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

DRAFT MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL / SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY / FINANCING AUTHORITY / HOUSING AUTHORITY REGULAR – August 6, 2025

Rd. to Dolphin Ave. and Authorizing the City Manager, Ron Strand to Sign the Program Supplement. Reed
Motion to Approve - Blades/Rajaratnam – 5 Ayes

ORDINANCE

5. An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest Amending the Ridgecrest Municipal Code Regarding Landscape Maintenance Spurlock
Public Comment heard by: M. Neel
Motion to Approve Waiving of First Reading – Blades/Gorman – 5 Ayes Motion to Introduce by Title Only- Blades/Gorman – 5 Ayes 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 7:43 PM

RIDGECREST CITY COUNCIL

SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY

FINANCING AUTHORITY

HOUSING AUTHORITY

DRAFT MINUTES
Wednesday, August 20, 2025 Closed Session – 5:30 p.m.

Regular Session – 6:00 p.m.

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

ROLL CALL – 5:30 p.m.

Council Present: Mayor Endicott; Mayor Pro-Tem Blades; Vice Mayor Rajaratnam; Council Member Hayman; Council Member Gorman
Staff Present: City Attorney M. Koczanowicz; City Manager Strand; APPROVAL OF AGENDA - Motion To Approve Agenda – Hayman - Blades - 5 ayes

CLOSED SESSION
CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNCIL Potential LITIGATION Gov Code Section 54956.9(b), Claim of Anderson

REGULAR SESSION
• Pledge Of Allegiance
• Invocation

ATTORNEY REPORT OUT OF CLOSED SESSION
Koczanowicz- Council unanimously rejected the claim

PUBLIC COMMENT OF ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA
Comments made by: Unknown speaker, T. Wiknich

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. A Resolution Approving The Project List For Fiscal Year 2025-2026 For The California State Of Good Repair (SGR) Program For The Following Project: Electric Cutaway Purchase Covarrubias

2. A Declaration Of Equipment And Vehicles As Surplus According To The FY25-26 Adopted Budget Purchasing Policy And Resolution 25-29 Roberts
Motion To Approve Consent Calendar – Blades - Hayman - 5 ayes

DISCUSSION / ACTION ITEMS

3. Proposed Approval For The Expenditure Of Park Impact Fees To Install Permanent Fencing On The JV And Varsity Softball Fields At Leroy Jackson Sports Complex In The Amount Of $65,000 Wegener
Corrections to the Resolution- Varsity (Spelling) and contingency amount ($5,000) Public comment – None made
Motion To Approve Resolution – Hayman- Gorman - 5 ayes

DRAFT MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL / SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY / FINANCING AUTHORITY / HOUSING AUTHORITY REGULAR – August 20, 2025

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

5. Council’s Consideration Of Rules Of Order For Council Meetings Attorney Public Comment made by T. Wiknich
Blades – Gorman – 5 Ayes
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 October 6, 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
➢ Next meeting September 9, 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 August 28, 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 September 2, 2025

OTHER COMMITTEES, BOARDS, OR COMMISSIONS

CITY MANAGER REPORT

FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

MAYOR AND COUNCIL COMMENTS
ADJOURNMENT 7:24 PM
2 This Page Intentionally Left Blank
Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority

STAFF REPORT
SUBJECT:

Discussion And Appointments To Personnel Board
PRESENTED BY:

Ricca L. Charlon – City Clerk
SUMMARY:

Discussion And Appointments To Personnel Board from Mayor Endicott & Solomon Rajaratnam FISCAL IMPACT: None
ACTION REQUESTED: Appoint Members To Committees, Boards, And Commissions CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION:

Submitted by: Ricca Charlon Action Date: September 3, 2025 This Page Intentionally Left Blank
3 This Page Intentionally Left Blank

CITY COUNCIL/SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY/

HOUSING AUTHORITY/FINANCING AUTHORITY AGENDA ITEM
SUBJECT: A Resolution Of The Ridgecrest City Council Adopting An Addendum To The Environmental Impact Report For The Construction Of A New Wastewater Treatment Plant And Amending The Adopted Mitigation Monitoring And Reporting Program PRESENTED BY:

Ron Strand, City Manager
SUMMARY:

On July 6, 2016, the City Council certified the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the construction of a new Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) (SCH No. 2015061095) and adopted a Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (MMRP) through Resolution 16-83.

Since certification, additional coordination with the Department of the Navy led to a redefined project scope. The New Wastewater Treatment Plant Modified Project proposes upgrading and expanding the existing WWTP facility located entirely on Navy property. An Addendum to the 2016 EIR was prepared pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15164.

Key modifications include:
• Addition of 7.67 acres west of the current WWTP for expansion. • Treatment capacity of up to 5.4 mgd (average daily flow), with disposal of 3.6 mgd remaining unchanged.
• Future construction of Pond 12 (within the previously analyzed boundary). • Repairs to 11 treatment ponds damaged in the 2019 earthquakes.

The Modified Project no longer includes several components from the original analysis, such as the construction of new treatment ponds in the City, irrigation of alfalfa fields, or expansion of the gravity main pipeline. All construction will take place solely on the Navy site through an easement granted to the City.

The Addendum confirms that no new or substantially more severe environmental impacts would occur, and most mitigation measures from the 2016 EIR remain applicable. Some measures are no longer relevant, while others were updated to reflect the revised project location.

FISCAL IMPACT: None
ACTION REQUESTED:

Approve the Resolution
CITY MANAGER / EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR RECOMMENDATION:

As requested
Submitted by: Ronald Strand Action Date: September 3, 2025 This Page Intentionally Left Blank
Resolution 25-Xx Page 1 of 2
RESOLUTION NO. 25-xx

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF

RIDGECREST ADOPTING AN ADDENDUM TO THE ENVIRONMENTAL

IMPACT REPORT FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW

WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT AND AMENDING THE ADOPTED

MITIGATION MONITORING, AND REPORTING PROGRAM
WHEREAS, on July 6th, 2016 the City of Ridgecrest City Council adopted Resolution 16-83, herein incorporated by reference, by which it certified the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) prepared for the Construction of a New Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) (SCH No. 2015061095) and adopted a mitigation monitoring and reporting program (MMRP) therefor; and, WHEREAS, the original EIR analyzed two Project alternatives and a No Project alternative; and, WHEREAS, following certification of the EIR on July 6th, 2016, the City of Ridgecrest City Council did not take action to approve either of the Project Alternatives and deferred that decision for consideration at a later date; and,
WHEREAS, through further discussion with the Department of the Navy, it was determined that the scope of the Project should change. The New Wastewater Treatment Plant Modified Project would upgrade the existing WWTP facility adjacent to the existing facility. The upgrade and ultimate expansion of the existing facility would require the development of approximately 7.67 acres of land to the west of the current facility. This land has been added to the existing easement between the Navy and the City for construction of the improved WWTP. The New Wastewater Treatment Plant Modified Project would take place only on the Navy site and no part of the project would take place within city limits; and, WHEREAS, as described in the addendum, the modified project proposes the following additions to the original project analysis:
• The addition of approximately 7.67 acres of land to the west of the current WWTP. • Processing of up to 5.4 mgd (average daily flow), disposal of only 3.6 mgd remains unchanged from the adopted EIR.
• Future construction of Pond 12, which is within the boundary that was previously analyzed, but construction of the Pond was not previously analyzed. • Repairs to the 11 treatment ponds on the Navy site that were damaged during the 2019 earthquakes; and,
WHEREAS, as described in the addendum, the modified project no longer includes the following components:
• Construction of several new treatment ponds where the four percolation ponds currently exist in the southeastern portion of the City.
• Irrigation of approximately 30 acres of alfalfa located 3.25 miles southeast of the Project site, at the former City WWTP. The construction of an expanded gravity main pipeline. • The construction of a new WWTP south of the four existing percolation ponds in the southeastern portion of the City, along with several new treatment ponds at this site. • No construction will take place in San Bernardino County. All construction will now take place on the Navy site through an easement that the Navy has granted to the City; and,
WHEREAS, the City of Ridgecrest has determined that the appropriate CEQA document for the changes to the Project since the existing EIR was certified would be an Addendum as outlined in CEQA Guidelines Section 15164; and,
Resolution 25-Xx Page 2 of 2
WHEREAS, the modified Project would not result in any new additional significant impacts, nor would it substantially increase the severity of previously anticipated significant impacts. Rather, all of the impacts associated with the Project are within the envelope of impacts addressed in the certified EIR and do not constitute a new or substantially increased significant impact; and, WHEREAS, Mitigation Measures of the certified EIR remain applicable to the proposed Project, unless stipulated otherwise. Mitigation measures LU-1, N-1, N-2, N-3, TR-1, TR-2, TR-3, TR-4, TR-5, and TR-8 from the 2016 EIR have been deemed to be no longer applicable to the current Project (as discussed in the respective sections of the Addendum). Additionally, mitigation measures AES-1, HYD1, CR-1, and CR-2 have been updated for this Project to reflect that all construction will now take place on the Navy site through an easement that the Navy has granted to the City, no part of the Project will take place within the city limits. Mitigation measures that remain applicable from the certified EIR have been included in their entirety in the MMRP.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest hereby:
a. Adopts the CEQA Addendum to the Environmental Impact Report (SCH No. 2015061095) prepared for the New Wastewater Treatment Plant Modified Project; and, b. Adopts the modified Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program; and, c. Approves the New Wastewater Treatment Plant Modified Project.

APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 3
rd day of September 2025 by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:

Travis Endicott, Mayor
ATTEST:

Ricca Charlon, City Clerk
Attachments:

Exhibit “A” - Resolution 16-83
Exhibit “B” - New Wastewater Treatment Plant Modified Project CEQA Addendum Exhibit “C” Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program

were not]
was not]

2. _______________________________________
_________________________________________ _______________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________ Print Form
Notice of Determination Appendix D
To: From:

Office of Planning and Research Public Agency: ___________________________ U.S. Mail: Address: ________________________________
P.O. Box 3044
Sacramento, CA 95812-3044
Street Address:
1400 Tenth St., Rm 113
Sacramento, CA 95814
_______________________________________
Contact: _________________________________
Phone: __________________________________
County Clerk
Lead Agency (if different from above): County of: _________________________________ Address: __________________________________ Address: ________________________________ Contact: _________________________________
Phone: __________________________________
SUBJECT: Filing of Notice of Determination in compliance with Section 21108 or 21152 of the Public Resources Code.

State Clearinghouse Number (if submitted to State Clearinghouse):______________________________ Project Title: _________________________________________________________________________ Project Applicant: _____________________________________________________________________ Project Location (include county):_________________________________________________________ Project Description:

This is to advise that the ____________________________________________ has approved the above ( Lead Agency or Responsible Agency)
described project on _______________ and has made the following determinations regarding the above (date)
described project.

1. The project [ will will not] have a significant effect on the environment.

2. An Environmental Impact Report was prepared for this project pursuant to the provisions of CEQA.

A Negative Declaration was prepared for this project pursuant to the provisions of CEQA.

3. Mitigation measures [ were made a condition of the approval of the project.

4. A mitigation reporting or monitoring plan [ was was not] adopted for this project.

5. A statement of Overriding Considerations [ was adopted for this project.

6. Findings [ were were not] made pursuant to the provisions of CEQA.

This is to certify that the final EIR with comments and responses and record of project approval, or the negative Declaration, is available to the General Public at:

Signature (Public Agency): _____________________________ Title: ____________________________ Date: _______________________________ Date Received for filing at OPR: ____________________ Authority cited: Sections 21083, Public Resources Code.

Reference Section 21000-21174, Public Resources Code. Revised 2011 ■
1115 Truxtun Avenue Bakersfield, CA 93301
See attached Project Description.
09/03/2025■
City of Ridgecrest 100 W. California Avenue Ridgecrest, CA 93555 Ronald Strand, City Manager (760) 499-5000 Kern New Wastewater Treatment Plant Modified Project Addendum 2015061095 Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake, Kern County City of Ridgecrest City of Ridgecrest City of Ridgecrest located at 110 W. California Avenue, Ridgecrest, CA 93555 City Manager Project Description
Project Title
New Wastewater Treatment Plan Modified Project
Project Location
The Project is located in Ridgecrest, California, approximately 115 miles northeast of Los Angeles and 80 miles east of Bakersfield. The Project site is located on Assessor’s Parcel Numbers 033-030-02-00-5, 033- 030-05-00-4, and 033-030-08-00-3. The centroid of the Project site is approximately 35° 40’ 21.50” North 117° 38’ 20.95” West.

General Plan Designation and Zoning
The Project is located on Naval Air Weapons Station (NAWS) China Lake. The site’s General Plan Land Use within the City of Ridgecrest General Plan is Military (MIL). The site is also located within the Military Influence Area (MIA) overlay zone. Other than this overlay zone, the site does not hold an official zoning designation due to naval base occupancy. The Project is located inside the naval base, and all surrounding lands hold the same General Plan Land Use and zoning designation.

Description of Project
The City of Ridgecrest (City), located in the eastern portion of Kern County, desires to upgrade its current WWTP on land owned by the United States Department of the Navy (Navy) and would serve both the City of Ridgecrest and NAWS China Lake. As such, the Navy has served as a collaborator with the City in the production of this document. The Navy is also preparing a separate document in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act. The Ridgecrest New WWTP Modified Project (Project) would be constructed adjacent to the existing WWTP, utilizing very little of the existing facility. The site is located on NAWS China Lake, approximately 3.5 miles northeast of the City center. The City has held an agreement with the Navy for an approximately 352-acre easement to operate a WWTP and 11 facultative treatment ponds on Navy-owned land since 1974, with the most recent modification of the contract on February 7, 1994. Two of these 11 ponds are out of service. In order to accommodate the expansion of the existing WWTP, the City requested, and was granted in 2020, an extension of the existing easement to include an additional 7.67 acres to the west of the existing WWTP. The Project would result in the construction of an upgraded WWTP to meet future residential and commercial growth through approximately 2050, repair existing treatment pond infrastructure, and improve the quality of the wastewater treated at the facility.

Existing Conditions
The existing WWTP has a permitted capacity of 3.6 million gallons per day (mgd), with a daily maximum discharge of 3.6 mgd. While the facility is rated for a maximum capacity of 3.6 mgd, the facility is aging and is not expected to be able to accommodate flows that would meet its permitted capacity. In 1993 daily flow reached approximately 3.3 mgd; however, due to a decrease in population and implementation of water conservation in conformance with California and local policy, daily flow levels (as of 2020) have declined to approximately 2.2 mgd. Additionally, in 2019 several earthquakes occurred which affected the area, causing damage to the distribution system of the 11 facultative treatment ponds located at the NAWS site.

Under current operations, treated water is percolated into the underlying aquifer through the treatment ponds located at the NAWS site and the former City WWTP site, located approximately 3.25 miles southeast of the Project site. Additionally, recycled water that has undergone primary and secondary treatment is used for irrigation at the China Lake Golf Course, approximately one-quarter mile southeast of the Project site. The Navy disinfects the effluent before it is used for irrigation purposes. Under the City’s contract with the Navy to operate the WWTP, the Navy is allotted 525 acre-feet per year (AFY) of treated water, which is further treated within a sand filter prior to disinfection by the Navy and then used for irrigation purposes on the golf course.

Previous Analysis and Approval
A previous version of this Project was analyzed in an EIR that was certified by the City Council on July 6, 2016 (SCH No. 2015061095). The previous EIR analyzed two alternatives for the expansion of the City of Ridgecrest wastewater treatment plant (WWTP), from which the current Project differs. Alternative 1 proposed to demolish the existing WWTP and construct a new, upgraded facility on the same site, as described in Section 2.1.6, and also proposed the City to construct several new treatment ponds where the four percolation ponds currently exist in the southeastern portion of the City. Alternative 2 proposed the expansion of the treatment ponds at the NAWS China Lake site, the construction of an expanded gravity main pipeline, and the construction of a new WWTP south of the four existing percolation ponds in the southeastern portion of the City, along with several new treatment ponds at this site. Both of these alternatives proposed treatment ponds to be located within San Bernardino County, across the street from the nonoperational City WWTP.

Project Scope Change
Following certification of the EIR, the City and Navy continued to discuss the Project and eventually came to an agreement that the scope of the Project should change, deciding to upgrade the WWTP to be constructed adjacent to the existing facility. This would necessitate the removal of most of the existing facility. The upgrade and ultimate expansion of the existing facility would require the development of approximately 7.67 acres of land to the west of the current facility. This land has been added to the existing easement between the Navy and the City for construction of the improved WWTP. The Certified EIR analyzed a 3.6-mgd (average daily flow) wastewater facility, while the fully completed Project would construct a facility that can process up to 5.4 mgd (average daily flow). This was not previously analyzed in the Certified EIR. This Addendum analyzed processing up to 5.4-mgd but did not analyze disposal of this amount. Upon full buildout of the facility, it would only be able to dispose of up to 3.6 mgd (as this is what will be requested in the Report of Waste Discharge for the new plant). This Addendum only analyzes disposal of up to 3.6 mgd. Additionally, the proposed Project includes the future construction of pond 12.

This pond is within the existing easement between the Navy and the City but was also not analyzed in the Certified EIR. The improvements would result in the construction of a new facility that would utilize primary clarifiers, extended aeration with activated sludge (oxidation ditches), secondary clarifiers to treat the wastewater, along with anaerobic digesters and cogeneration facilities to utilize the resulting biogas from the anaerobic digesters for power production. Further, the Project includes repairs to the existing infrastructure of the 11 treatment ponds that were damaged by earthquakes in 2019. While three other alternatives were presented in the EIR (not provided or discussed in this document), the current Project has been deemed the most appropriate and includes considerations such as cost, usability, maintenance, and lifespan of the equipment.

Removed Project Components
The proposed Project no longer includes the following components:
 Construction of several new treatment ponds where the four percolation ponds currently exist in the southeastern portion of the City.
 Irrigation of approximately 30 acres of alfalfa located 3.25 miles southeast of the Project site, at the former City WWTP.
 The construction of an expanded gravity main pipeline.  The construction of a new WWTP south of the four existing percolation ponds in the southeastern portion of the City, along with several new treatment ponds at this site.

No construction will take place in San Bernardino County. All construction will now take place on the NAWS site through an easement that the Navy has granted to the City.

Mohave Tui Chub Population
The Mojave Tui Chub, an endangered fish species native to the Mojave River, was relocated to NAWS China Lake in the 1970s. Effluent from treatment ponds 9 and 10 are thought to have experienced seepage that may provide suitable habitat for the Tui Chub at the Lark Seep, approximately 4,500 feet to the northeast of treatment pond 10. While this has not been officially confirmed, this document assumes that Lark Seep is receiving subsurface flow from ponds 9 and 10. The relocation of these fish has been discussed between the Navy and California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and may result in their removal at a later date, following completion of the Project. According to the 2002 Draft Environmental Impact Statement For Proposed Military Operational Increases and Implementation of Associated Comprehensive Land Use and Integrated Natural Resources Management Plans, this population of fish is managed by NAWS in cooperation with the USFWS, CDFW, and City of Ridgecrest, and the water supply to the seep system is regularly monitored at established test wells and monitoring stations, to ensure compliance with water quality standards established for the protection and enhancement of the tui chub. The physical location of the Lark Seep is outside of the Project boundary and would not be disturbed as part of Project activities.

The population will continue to be managed by USFWS, CDFW, and the Navy. The City of Ridgecrest is under contract per the easement agreement to provide 200 AFY of treated effluent to the Navy for their use in supporting the tui chub population.

Construction
The Project would be constructed in two phases. Most processes within the existing WWTP would remain in service until the new WWTP is completed unless they are in conflict with the proposed improvements.

The anticipated improvements that would be constructed in both phases are contained below:

Phase 1:
 Removal of the existing sludge drying beds
 Removal of the existing sludge storage area
 Removal of the existing influent junction structure
 New maintenance building
 New office/lab/administrative building
 New vehicle storage building
 Influent junction structure
 Septage receiving station
 Headworks
 Influent lift station
 Grit chamber
 Grit classifier
 Influent flow distribution box
 Primary clarifiers
 Primary sludge pump station
 Scum pump station
 Site waste lift station
 Oxidation ditches
 Secondary flow distribution box
 Secondary clarifiers
 Effluent control structure
 Disinfection basin
 Chemical storage area
 Return activated sludge (RAS)/Waste Activated Sludge (WAS) pump station  Sludge thickening
 Oil & grease receiving station
 Anaerobic digestors
 Biosolids dewatering area
 Biosolids drying beds
 Biosolids storage area
 Biogas conditioning and power generation area
 Electrical distribution and emergency generator
 Auxiliary buildings
 Construction of Pond 12
Phase 2(future expansion):
 New primary clarifier
 New oxidation Ditch
 New secondary clarifier
 New anaerobic digester
 Expansion of the biosolids drying bed area
 Expansion of the biosolids storage area
Construction of Phase 1 is projected to accommodate capacity through approximately 2041, based on growth indicators for the City. Under Phase 1, annual average daily flow would be 3.6 mgd, with an average day maximum month flow of 4.0 mgd. The further expansion of the facility under Phase 2 is estimated to provide sufficient capacity to serve City growth through approximately 2052. Phase 2 would result in an annual average daily flow capacity of 5.4 mgd, with an average day maximum month flow of 5.9 mgd. Phase 2 is not fully designed and would likely not be built out for many years. As a result, just as was explained in the Certified EIR, environmental impacts from Phase 2 would be too speculative to analyze at this time and will be evaluated under a separate environmental document once the Phase 2 parameters have been determined and that phase is being actively considered.

The Project would also provide repairs to the existing infrastructure of the 11 treatment ponds which were damaged by earthquakes in 2019. Repairs would include, but are not limited to, replacement of the existing piping to the treatment ponds, the installation of flow distribution boxes for each pond, and the installation of staff gages for each pond. In order to provide for these repairs and installations, each pond would be taken offline and drained, resulting in the existing biosolids being solar dried and removed from each respective pond. Pond bottoms would be scarified to rehabilitate percolation rates to near native conditions, and any existing damage to pond berms would be repaired as a part of this effort. The repair of pond infrastructure is contained as a part of the Project and would be completed as part of Phase 1. Ponds 8, 9, and 11 would be lined in the process. By lining these ponds, it will allow them to be fully loaded even during a wet year with a minimal chance of effluent surfacing down gradient of the ponds. In the future, depending on capacity and need, the City may construct a twelfth pond (Pond 12) within the northern section of the existing easement, to the north of pond 9 and west of pond 10. The timeline for the construction of Pond 12 is unknown at this time but is included in Phase 1 and covered in this Addendum.

Construction activities would be limited to the Project site, confined by the easement agreement between the City and the Navy, and would involve demolition, grading, paving, building construction, and painting.

Site access during construction would be via a driveway connecting to North Knox Road. Principal deliveries to the Project site would include construction equipment, concrete and asphalt materials, building materials, and any related hardware required to construct the upgraded WWTP. A construction schedule has yet to be determined; however, any potential schedule for both construction activities and the delivery of materials would be required to be reviewed and approved by the Navy. It is anticipated that Phase 1 construction would take approximately two years to complete, and Phase 2 would take approximately 18 months to complete.

Future Use of Recycled Water
Following completion of the Project, the City would continue to provide the Navy with secondary treated effluent. The Navy would continue to provide disinfection of the effluent. At this time, the use of recycled water elsewhere throughout the City or on the NAWS China Lake has not been proposed. The treatment ponds that are thought to be creating suitable habitat for the Mojave Tui Chub would be allowed to continue to seep and provide habitat at the Lark Seep until such a time that the population of this species is relocated as agreed upon by the Navy and CDFW. Any potential future use of the recycled wastewater would be subject to both State and federal permits and regulations governing the disposal of and use of treated wastewater.

Operation and Maintenance
Operation and maintenance of the expanded WWTP would be performed by the City of Ridgecrest maintenance staff. It is anticipated that upon full Project buildout the City would need to increase staff by approximately 10 people.
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Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority

STAFF REPORT
SUBJECT: Adoption Of Resolution instituting Rules Of Order For Council Meetings PRESENTED BY: Martin Koczanowicz, City Attorney
SUMMARY:

At the last Council meeting the City Council had the opportunity to discuss the form and substance of proposed Rules of Order. Staff was directed to return with a final draft for Council’s consideration and adoption.

ANALYSIS:

Rules of Order for Council meetings are a useful tool for Council, public and staff. City Council was presented with two different drafts at the last Council meeting and after some discussion and deliberation, agreed to move forward with the more basic model. Final edits were completed and the proposed Rules (Exhibit A to Resolution ____ ) are being presented for Council’s approval. Staff recommends that Council adopt the Resolution putting the Rules into effect.

FISCAL IMPACT:

City Council’s approval of Rules of Conduct will not have a direct fiscal impact on the General Fund. To the extent that Rules of Conduct result in more efficiently run meetings, some indirect positive fiscal impacts may be realized.

ACTION ALTERNATIVES:

1. Adopt Resolution _____ which would install the Rules of Order for Council Meetings.

2. Direct staff to return with a different draft for Council consideration at the next meeting.

CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION:

Same as Above
Submitted by: Martin Koczanowicz Action Date: 09.03.25
(Revised Jan2019)
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RESOLUTION NO. 25-

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RIDGECREST

ADOPTING RULES OF ORDER FOR COUNCIL MEETINGS
WHEREAS, in order to maintain decorum and efficiency in conducting the City Council meetings, the Council desires to adopt a set of rules of order for such meetings; and
WHEREAS, the City Council deliberated and agreed upon a set of rules that is reflected in the attached Exhibit A to this Resolution.

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

SECTION 1. The Rules of Order for Council Meetings attached as Exhibit A to this Resolution are hereby adopted by the City Council and effective upon passage of this Resolution.

APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 3rd day of September 2025 by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:

Travis Endicott, Mayor
ATTEST:

Ricca Charlon, CMC
City Clerk
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Page | 1 Adopted Conduct at Public Meetings (Final)
Rules of Order and Conduct at City Council Meetings

COUNCIL MEETINGS
All council meetings are conducted in compliance with the Ralph M. Brown Act (California Government Code section 54950, et. seq.), which requires legislative bodies to hold their meetings in public except under specific circumstances where closed sessions are authorized.

Except as otherwise provided by these rules, the Municipal Code, or applicable provisions of state law, the procedures of the City Council shall be governed by the latest revised edition of Rosenberg’s Rules of Order.

The applicability of these City Council rules, or any one thereof, may be suspended for an item or subject matter by a vote of majority of the Councilmembers present at a meeting that such item is being considered.

Regular Meetings
The City Council holds regular meetings on the first and third Wednesdays of each month. The regular meeting shall commence at 6:00 p.m. In some cases a special meeting may be held immediately prior to the regular meeting for purposes of conducting a Closed Session. In those cases where it is anticipated that a closed session will be unusually lengthy, the City may set the special meeting at an announced time. Agendas will be prepared and the meeting will be conducted with the intention of concluding the meeting no later than 10:30 p.m.

The City Council Chamber in Ridgecrest City Hall has been established as the place for holding the regular meetings.

Special Meetings
Occasionally, the mayor, mayor pro tem, City Manager or city clerk may call a special meeting to consider specific items. The city clerk’s office will post a notice of these meetings at least 24 hours in advance.

Closed Session
The city council may meet in closed session before, during or after a meeting to discuss matters authorized under the provisions of the Brown Act. No Councilmember, employee of the City, or any other person present during a Closed Session of the City Council shall disclose, to any person, the content or substance of any communication which took place during the Closed Session unless the City Council specifically authorizes the disclosure by majority vote, or unless the disclosure is required by law. In the event that the closed session is expected to last beyond the Page | 2 Adopted Conduct at Public Meetings (Final)
start of the regular meeting, the City Clerk will provide an estimate to the public of the expected start of the public meeting.

Workshops/Study Sessions/Town Hall
The city council may conduct workshops or study sessions for a specific purpose, such as the preliminary annual city budget. These sessions will be agenized in the same manner as special meetings. They may be held at a place other than the council chambers.

THE AGENDA
The City Clerk shall prepare the Agenda under the direction of the City Manager as follows: The City Manager shall consult with the City Attorney in the preparation of the Agenda. The Agenda and all available supporting documents shall be delivered to Councilmembers at least 72 hours prior to the Wednesday City Council meeting to which it pertains, or as soon thereafter as possible. Exceptions can occur for items that are time critical as long as public notification and posting laws are complied with.

Each agenda will contain an item for “Future Agenda Items” during which members of the city council may request to have matters added to the agenda of any upcoming regular meeting.

Matters directed to be placed on the Agenda at the direction of at least two Councilmembers shall be listed on the Agenda in the order of receipt by the City Clerk.

The City Clerk shall post the Agenda as required by the Brown Act. Copies of the Agenda shall be posted on the City’s website, in the lobby of City Hall and at the Kern County Library. The City Clerk shall maintain on file the declarations establishing compliance with the posting requirements.

No action shall be taken on any item not appearing on the posted Agenda unless the item is added to the Agenda in the manner authorized by the Brown Act.

The business of the City Council shall be conducted in the order and manner specified below. The order may be changed by a majority vote of those present. The following is the order of business:

1. Call to Order

2. Roll Call

3. Approval of Agenda

4. Public Comment- Closed Session (if applicable)

5. Closed Session (if applicable)

6. Regular Session 6:00 PM
a. Pledge of Allegiance
b. Invocation
Page | 3 Adopted Conduct at Public Meetings (Final)

7. City Attorney Report from Closed Session

8. Presentations- Mayor may ask the presenter if they are prepared to answer questions.

9. Council Announcements

10. Public Comment on items not on the agenda

11. Consent Calendar- The consent calendar shall consist of the approval of minutes of previous meetings and other routine items such as contracts and resolution which do not necessitate a separate public hearing and which are determined in the Agenda preparation process to be relatively non-controversial. Ordinances for second reading and adoption may be placed on the consent calendar if all members of the City Council were present when the vote for first reading and introduction took place and this vote was unanimous. The consent calendar shall be considered as one item regardless of the number of matters appearing on it and may be approved by a single vote. The title to the individual consent items need not be read unless a request to do so is made by any Councilmember. Members of the public shall have an opportunity to address the City Council concerning item(s) on the consent calendar. Members of the public shall be heard prior to City Council approval of the consent calendar. Councilmembers may request to have individual matters removed from the consent calendar to receive an oral staff report, or have discussion or deliberation of such item. All matters remaining on the consent calendar may be approved by a single vote. Any items removed from the consent calendar shall be considered separately in the order of their appearance on the Agenda. Removed items may be heard immediately following the consent calendar or may be heard after the City Council concludes other matters on the agenda.

12. Discussion and Other Action Items

13. Public Hearings- This item consists of public hearings required by specific provisions of law.

14. Ordinances

15. Committee Reports

16. Other Committees, Boards, or Commissions- Boards and commissions who may present reports under this item include, but are not limited to, all City boards, commissions and task forces.

17. City Manager Report

18. Future Agenda Items

19. Mayor and Council Comments

20. Adjournment

MINUTES
Page | 4 Adopted Conduct at Public Meetings (Final)
The City Clerk shall have exclusive responsibility for preparation of the Minutes, and any directions for corrections in the Minutes shall be made only by majority vote of the City Council.

PRESIDING OFFICER
The Mayor shall be the Presiding Officer at all meetings of the City Council. In the absence of the Mayor, the Mayor Pro Tempore shall preside. In the absence of both the Mayor and Mayor Pro Tempore, the Vice Mayor shall be the Presiding Officer.

The Presiding Officer may move, second, and debate from the chair, subject only to such limitations of debate as are imposed upon Councilmembers by these rules, and shall not be deprived of any of the rights or privileges of a Councilmember by reason of his or her acting as the Presiding Officer. The Presiding Officer shall (1) preserve order at all meetings of the City Council, (2) state (or cause to be stated) each question coming before the City Council (3) announce the decisions of the City Council on all subjects; and (4) decide all questions of order subject to the right to appeal rulings on questions of order to the entire City Council.

RULES OF DEBATE
A Councilmember desiring to speak shall gain recognition by the Presiding Officer. Every Councilmember desiring to question City staff shall address his or her questions to the City Manager, the City Attorney, the City Clerk or designated staff. Every Council member shall be afforded the opportunity to speak on any item on the agenda for a reasonable period at the discretion of the Presiding Officer.

PROCEDURE FOR ADOPTING A MOTION
The following procedure shall be followed in connection with any Agenda item requiring a motion:
(a) The Presiding Officer reads the title.
(b) Presiding Officer calls for a staff report.
(c) Councilmembers question City staff.
(d) Council conducts Public hearing, or obtains public comment. (e) Council deliberates.
(f) A Councilmember makes a motion, another Councilmember seconds the motion, and the Council debates it, with the maker of the motion having the opportunity to speak last. (g) The Presiding Officer or City Clerk restates the motion. (h) The Council votes on the motion in a manner compliant with the applicable laws. (I) The City Clerk announces result.

Page | 5 Adopted Conduct at Public Meetings (Final)

ADDRESSING THE COUNCIL DURING THE MEETING
The city council encourages public participation in the decision-making process and appreciates when residents bring issues of community concern to their attention. Individuals wishing to address the council on any agenda item may do so at the time the item is considered. However, members of the public do not have the right to give testimony outside the scope of or unrelated to the agenda item under consideration. Additionally, members of the public should strive to avoid unduly reiterating their own or others’ testimony.

Comments are limited to no more than 5 minutes per speaker, but that time limit may be reduced or increased at the Presiding Officer’s discretion. Presiding Officer may ask for the debate to continue if there are numerous speakers on a particular item. In the event that new information that the public has not previously had opportunity to consider is brought up during Council response, the Mayor may allow speakers another opportunity to comment on that information, with concurrence of the City Council.

To ensure efficient proceedings and to allow for the maximum of public testimony on items that are expected to be controversial, the City Council may request those desiring to speak to be registered prior to commencement of the meeting. The City Council will make this determination upon the adoption of the agenda. Under those circumstances, the public will be asked by the City Clerk to complete a speaker card and submit it to the City Clerk. Each member of the public who has submitted a card will be called upon to speak based in order. Once all speakers have been recognized, if there is still time to consider the matter, the Mayor shall invite those who have not filled out cards and not had the opportunity to speak to address the Council.

After being recognized by the Presiding Officer, each member of the public addressing the City Council shall go to the podium, state his or her name, if desired, and whom he or she is representing, if he or she represents an organization or other person. Each member of the public is encouraged, but not required, to also state his or her address, neighborhood, or city of residence. All remarks shall be addressed to the City Council as a whole and not to any individual member thereof. An opportunity for public comment is not an opportunity to dialogue with the Council or ask questions with the expectation of immediate response. Presiding Officer may request a brief response from staff to any questions at Presiding Officer’s sole discretion. Items not properly noticed on the agenda may not be deliberated by the Council.

SPECIAL ASSISTANCE FOR THOSE WHO CANNOT WAIT TO SPEAK
Members of the public, including those with special needs, who cannot wait to speak, or are not able to speak, on an agenda item may request assistance from the City Clerk. A member of the Clerk's office will provide assistance for those with special needs as reasonably possible. Those Page | 6 Adopted Conduct at Public Meetings (Final)
unable to wait to speak may submit written statement for distribution to the Council prior to the agenda item being called.

PUBLIC SAFETY
When the City Council is in session, all persons present must preserve proper decorum, safety and order. Members of the public should sit in the audience seating area, unless addressing the Council or entering or leaving the Council Chambers. Members of the public should not block the aisles with personal belongings and should not bring audible equipment into the Council Chambers including unsilenced cellular telephones or pagers. Members of the public may not, except when testifying on or participating in an agenda item, enter the well area, which is the open area directly in front of the dais and extending outward from it to a line running between the points on the Clerk's desk and the podium nearest to the audience.

Any person who disrupts the meeting shall be called to order by the Presiding Officer. Disruption shall include but not be limited to, blocking the audience or camera view of the proceedings. If such conduct continues, the Presiding Officer may request the Sergeant at Arms to remove the person from Council chambers.

The Chief of Police or such member or members of the Police Department as designated by the Chief, shall be Sergeant At Arms of the City Council and shall carry out all orders given by the Presiding Officer through the City Manager for the purpose of maintaining order at City Council meetings. Any Councilmember may move to require the Presiding Officer to enforce the rules, and the affirmative vote of a majority of the City Council shall require him or her to do so.

INTERPRETATION AND MODIFICATION OF THESE RULES
These rules shall be interpreted liberally in order to provide for the optimum in the free interchange of information and public debate without an unnecessary waste of time or duplication of effort.

FAILURE TO OBSERVE RULES OF ORDER
These rules of order and procedures govern the conduct of City Council meetings. These rules are intended to expedite the transaction of the business of the City Council in an orderly fashion and are deemed to be procedural only. City Council has the authority to modify the application of these rules by majority vote when circumstances so dictate. Failure to strictly observe these rules shall not affect the jurisdiction of the City Council or invalidate any action taken at a meeting that otherwise conforms to applicable laws.

Page | 7 Adopted Conduct at Public Meetings (Final)
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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 Commercial 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.

This item came before the City Council on August 6, 2025. This is the second reading of the ordinance.

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%
Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority

STAFF REPORT
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. 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 Adopt, 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: September 3, 2025 (Revised Jan2019)
Ordinance 25-02 Page 1 of 2
ORDINANCE NO. 25-02

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 65591 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 Ordinance 25-02 Page 2 of 2
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.

APPROVED AND ADOPTED: This 3
rd day of September, 2025 by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:

Travis Endicott, Mayor
ATTEST:

Ricca Charlon, City Clerk