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
July 15, 2026
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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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
Travis Reed, City Manager
Martin Koczanowicz, City Attorney
Keith Lemieux, City Attorney
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RIDGECREST CITY COUNCIL
SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
FINANCING AUTHORITY
HOUSING AUTHORITY
AGENDA
Wednesday, July 15, 2026 Regular Session – 6:00 p.m.
CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
REGULAR SESSION
• Pledge Of Allegiance
• Invocation
COUNCIL PRESENTATIONS
1. Parks & Recreation Week Proclamation Council
PUBLIC COMMENT OF ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA - Persons wishing to address the Council on matters that are within the Council’s jurisdiction and DO NOT ALREADY APPEAR ON THE AGENDA, may do so at this time.
COUNCIL ANNOUNCEMENTS/DIRECTION
CONSENT CALENDAR – All Matters Listed Under The Consent Calendar Are To Be Considered Routine And Enacted By One Motion Unless Pulled By A Council Member.
2. Proposed Action To Approve Draft Minutes Of The Regular Ridgecrest City Council Meeting Dated June 17, 2026 Charlon
3. Consideration Of Resolutions Relating To The Calling Of Ridgecrest’s General Municipal Election To Be Held On November 3, 2026 Charlon
4. Approve A Resolution Of The City Council Of City Of Ridgecrest Reciting The Fact Of The Consolidated Statewide Direct Primary Municipal Election Held On Tuesday, June 3, 2026 Declaring The Result And Such Other Matters As Provided By Law Charlon
5. A Resolution Of The Ridgecrest City Council Approving The Acceptance Of The California Cannabis Tax Fund Grant Program Grant Funds Ysit
6. A Resolution Of The Ridgecrest City Council Authorizing Acceptance Of The State Of California, Office Of Traffic Safety Step Grant Ysit
7. 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
AGENDA - CITY COUNCIL / SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY / FINANCING AUTHORITY / HOUSING AUTHORITY REGULAR – July 15, 2026
8. A Resolution Approving a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) Between the City of Ridgecrest and Police Employees Association of Ridgecrest (PEAR) Reed
9. A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest Authorizing an Amendment to the City of Ridgecrest PARS Alternate Retirement System (ARS) Plan Reed
10. A Resolution Approving by Reference and Authorizing Execution of the Compensation Plans for the Management, Mid-Management, Confidential, and Part-Time Employee Groups Reed
11. A Resolution Of The City Council Of The City Of Ridgecrest To Cooperate With The County Of Kern, Electing To Participate In The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) And Home Investment Partnership Programs For Fiscal Years 2027, 2028, And 2029 And Authorizing The City Manager To Sign The Cooperative Agreement Reed
12. A Resolution of The City Council of The City of Ridgecrest to Levy and Collect Sewer Fees on The General Tax Rolls for Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Roberts
13. A Declaration Of Equipment And Vehicles As Surplus According To The Fy27 Adopted Budget Purchasing Policy Roberts
14. A Resolution Of The City Council Of The City Of Ridgecrest Authorizing: An Application For Federal Funding For Fiscal Year 2026-2027 In The Total Amount Of One Hundred Eighty Thousand Five Hundred And Fifty-Nine Dollars ($180,559); The City Manager To Sign And File The Application; And Execute And File All Certification Of Assurances, Contracts Or Agreements; And Designate The Transit Administrator To Provide Additional Information In Connection With The Application For The Section 5311 Project(s) And To Submit And Approve Requests For Reimbursement Of Funds From The Department For The Section 5311 Project(s) Covarrubias
DISCUSSION / ACTION ITEMS
15. A Resolution Of The Ridgecrest City Council Approving A Five-Year Transit Development Plan Roberts
16. Declaration Of Surplus Vehicle And Authorization To Sell A Surplus Communications Vehicle To The Sierra Amateur Radio Club Of The High Mojave Ysit
17. Discussion Regarding Needed Appointments To Council Committees, Boards, And Commissions Charlon
18. Discussion Regarding The Board Of The Indian Wells Valley Groundwater Authority (IWVGA) Regular Meeting Hayman
19. Consideration Of Authorization To File Petition For Intervenor Status In The California Energy Commission Small Power Plant Exemption Proceeding For The Proposed Inyokern Data Center Project (Docket No. 26-SPPE-01) Reed
AGENDA - CITY COUNCIL / SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY / FINANCING AUTHORITY / HOUSING AUTHORITY REGULAR – July 15, 2026
COMMITTEE REPORTS
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 3, 2026
Finance Committee
Members: Solomon Rajaratnam and Scott Hayman
Meeting: 2nd Tuesday every other month at 5:30 p.m.
Location: City Hall Conference Room B, 1st Floor
➢ Report from July 14, 2026
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
➢ Report from June 25, 2026
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 July 7, 2026
OTHER COMMITTEES, BOARDS, OR COMMISSIONS
CITY MANAGER REPORT
FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
MAYOR AND COUNCIL COMMENTS
ADJOURNMENT
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A Proclamation of
The City of Ridgecrest, California
Honoring Parks & Recreation Professionals Week
July 13 - 19, 2026
WHEREAS, parks, recreation programs, open spaces, community centers, athletic facilities, and public gathering spaces are essential assets that enhance the quality of life, health, wellness, and economic vitality of the residents of the City of Ridgecrest; and,
WHEREAS, the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) has recognized July as National Park and Recreation Month since 1985 to celebrate the important role local park and recreation agencies and professionals play in building stronger, healthier, and more connected communities; and, WHEREAS, the 2026 national theme, “The Power Of,” recognizes the power of parks and recreation to strengthen communities through wellness, conservation, inclusion, recreation, environmental stewardship, and social connection; and, WHEREAS, recreation professionals provide valuable programs, services, events, sports, classes, cultural opportunities, and activities that enrich the lives of residents of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds while fostering community engagement and lifelong wellness; and,
WHEREAS, park maintenance and operations professionals work diligently year-round to maintain parks, playgrounds, sports fields, landscaping, trees, public buildings, recreation facilities, and infrastructure to ensure that public spaces remain safe, clean, functional, accessible, and welcoming for all residents and visitors; and, WHEREAS, the combined efforts of recreation staff, maintenance crews, operations personnel, volunteers, and community partners are vital to preserving public resources, protecting natural spaces, supporting public safety, and delivering high-quality recreational opportunities throughout the community; and, WHEREAS, the City of Ridgecrest proudly recognizes the contributions and dedication of its Parks and Recreation Department and acknowledges the essential role both recreation programming and park and facility maintenance play in strengthening community pride, wellness, and resilience; and, NOW, THEREFORE, the Ridgecrest City Council, hereby proclaims July 2026 as Park and Recreation Month and July 13 – 19, 2026 as Parks and Recreation Professionals Celebration Week and encourages all residents to recognize and celebrate the invaluable contributions of parks and recreation professionals, maintenance and operations personnel, and all those who work to provide safe, welcoming, and vibrant parks and recreation opportunities for the entire community Presented this 15th day of July, 2026
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: Proposed Action To Approve Draft Minutes Of The Ridgecrest City Council Regular Meeting Dated June 17, 2026
PRESENTED BY: Ricca Charlon, City Clerk
SUMMARY:
Draft Minutes of the City Council / Successor Redevelopment Agency / Housing Authority / Financing Authority Regular Meeting Dated June 17, 2026 FISCAL IMPACT: None
ACTION REQUESTED: Approve minutes
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION: Action as requested
Submitted by: Ricca Charlon Action Date: July 15, 2026
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RIDGECREST CITY COUNCIL
SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
FINANCING AUTHORITY
HOUSING AUTHORITY
DRAFT Minutes
Wednesday, June 17, 2026 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; City Manager Reed; Community Development Manager Spurlock
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Hayman/Rajaratnam – 5 Ayes
REGULAR SESSION
• Pledge Of Allegiance
• Invocation
COUNCIL PRESENTATIONS
1. Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) Brewton / Consultant
PUBLIC COMMENT OF ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA
6:23 PM Opened Public Comments heard by: T. Wiknich, T. Boyer, J. Jones, R. Blair, P. Vanderwerf, N.
Sunsari, K. Brown, J. Slayton, M. Sinnott, K. Cutts, M. Neel, S. Vanscoy, C. Russell, L. Stephens, Vanessa
COUNCIL ANNOUNCEMENTS/DIRECTION
CONSENT CALENDAR
2. Proposed Action To Approve Draft Minutes Of The Regular Ridgecrest City Council Meeting Dated June 3, 2026 Charlon
3. Proposed Action To Adopt A Resolution Of The Ridgecrest City Council And The Successor Redevelopment Agency Adopting The Annual Budget For Fiscal Year 2026-27, Establishing Appropriations, Estimating Revenues, And Establishing The Policies By Which The Budget May Be And Shall Be Amended Brewton
4. Grant Acceptance For A Grant Awarded From The California Department Of Food And Agriculture (CDFA) Ysit
Blades/Gorman 5 Ayes for approval of 2 & 4
#3 pulled by member of the public B. Licitra
Public Comment made by J. Jones
Draft Minutes - CITY COUNCIL / SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY / FINANCING AUTHORITY / HOUSING AUTHORITY REGULAR – June 17, 2026
Motion for approval of #3
Hayman/Blades 5 Ayes
PUBLIC HEARINGS
5. A Resolution And Public Hearing Of The City Council Of The City Of Ridgecrest, California Declaring Its Intent To Levy And Collect Assessments Within The City Of Ridgecrest Drainage Benefit Assessment District No. 2016-1, Pursuant To The Provisions Of The Benefit Assessment Act Of 1982; Review Of The Preliminary Engineers Report And Authorization To Finalize Said Report For Fiscal Year 2026/2027 Reed
Blades/Gorman 5 Ayes
6. A Resolution And Public Hearing Of The City Council Of The City Of Ridgecrest, California Declaring Its Intent To Levy And Collect Assessments Within The Consolidated Landscaping And Lighting District No. 2012-1, Review Of The Preliminary Engineers Report And Authorization To Finalize Said Report For Fiscal Year 2026/2027 Reed Rajaratnam/Hayman 5 Ayes
DISCUSSION / ACTION ITEMS
7. 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 2026/2027 Reed
Hayman/Blades 5 Ayes
8. 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 2026/2027 Reed
Gorman/Rajaratnam 5 Ayes
COMMITTEE REPORTS
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 July 6, 2026
Finance Committee
Members: Solomon Rajaratnam and Scott Hayman
Meeting: 2nd Tuesday every other month at 5:30 p.m.
Location: City Hall Conference Room B, 1st Floor
➢ Next meeting July 14, 2026
Draft Minutes - CITY COUNCIL / SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY / FINANCING AUTHORITY / HOUSING AUTHORITY REGULAR – June 17, 2026
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 June 25, 2026
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 July 7, 2026
OTHER COMMITTEES, BOARDS, OR COMMISSIONS
CITY MANAGER REPORT
FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
Gorman/Endicott- Data Center item TBD
MAYOR AND COUNCIL COMMENTS
ADJOURNMENT 8:00 PM
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Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority
STAFF REPORT
SUBJECT: Consideration Of Resolutions Relating To The Calling Of Ridgecrest’s General Municipal Election To Be Held On November 3, 2026
PRESENTED BY: Ricca Charlon, City Clerk
SUMMARY: This item, once approved by the City Council, calls for the General Municipal Election for November 3, 2026. It requests that the Board of Supervisors of the County of Kern consolidate a General Municipal Election with the State Wide General Election. The Ridgecrest voters will consider election of one Mayor and two members of the City Council.
In accordance with Section 1301 of the California Elections Code, Ridgecrest’s General Municipal Elections are held on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November of each even-numbered year. The next regularly-scheduled General Municipal Election will be held on November 3, 2026, for the election of one Mayor for the full term of two years, and two Council Members, for the full term of four years.
In order for the election to take place, it is necessary for the City Council to adopt two (2) resolutions by a two-thirds vote: 1.) Calling the General Municipal Election for the election of one Mayor and two Council Members and 2.) Requesting Kern County to consolidate the election with the Statewide General Election and provide related services.
NOTE: The candidate filing period for nomination papers opens on Monday, July 13, 2026 and runs through Thursday, August 6, 2026*.
Per Election Code §10220 - Candidates may be nominated for any of the elective offices of the city in the following manner: Not earlier than the 113th day* nor later than the 88th day** before a municipal election during normal office hours, as posted***, the voters may nominate candidates for election by signing a nomination paper.
*113th day – Monday, July 13, 2026
**88th day – Friday, August 7, 2026
***Normal hours, as posted – Thursday, August 6, 2026 is the last day to file nomination papers for Mayor or City Council since Ridgecrest City Hall is closed on Fridays FISCAL IMPACT: Funding for the November 2026 Consolidated Election has been budgeted in the FY2026-27 budget.
ACTION REQUESTED:
1. Adopt Resolution calling for the holding of a General Municipal Election on Tuesday, November 3, 2026.
2. Adopt Resolution requesting the Board of Supervisors of the County of Kern to consolidate, administer, manage and oversee the Election.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION: Action as requested.
Submitted by: Ricca Charlon Action Date: July 15, 2026
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RESOLUTION NO. 26-xX
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RIDGECREST,
CALIFORNIA, CALLING FOR THE HOLDING OF A GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION TO BE HELD ON TUESDAY NOVEMBER 3, 2026, FOR THE ELECTION
OF CERTAIN OFFICERS AS REQUIRED BY THE PROVISIONS OF THE LAWS OF
THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA RELATING TO GENERAL LAW CITIES
WHEREAS, under the provisions of the laws relating to general law cities in the State of California, a General Municipal Election shall be held on November 3, 2026, for the election of Municipal Officers; and,
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RIDGECREST, CALIFORNIA, DOES HEREBY RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. Pursuant to the requirements of the laws of the State of California relating to General Law Cities, there is called and ordered to be held in the City of Ridgecrest, California, on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, a General Municipal Election for the purpose of electing one Mayor for a term of two years and two Members of the City Council, each for the full term of four years.
SECTION 2. The ballots to be used at the election shall be in form and content as required by law.
SECTION 3. The City Clerk is authorized, instructed and directed to coordinate with the County of Kern Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk to procure and furnish any and all official ballots, notices, printed matter and all supplies, equipment and paraphernalia that may be necessary in order to properly and lawfully conduct the election.
SECTION 4. The polls (vote centers) for the election shall be open at 7:00 A.M. of the day of the election and shall remain open continuously from that time until 8:00 P.M. of the same day when the vote centers shall be closed, pursuant to Election Code § 10242, except as provided in §§ 14212, 14401 of the Elections Code of the State of California.
SECTION 5. In all particulars not recited in this resolution, the election shall be held and conducted as provided by law governing municipal elections.
SECTION 6. Notice of the time and place of holding the election is hereby given and the City Clerk is authorized, instructed and directed to give further or additional notice of the election, in time, form and manner as required by law.
SECTION 7. The City Council authorizes the City Clerk to administer said election and authorizes all reasonable and actual election expenses to be paid by the City upon presentation of a properly-submitted bill.
SECTION 8. The City Clerk shall certify to the passage and adoption of this resolution and shall enter the same in the Book of Original Resolutions.
Resolution No. 26-Xx Page 2 of 2
APPROVED and PASSED this 15
th day of July, 2026.
City of Ridgecrest, California
BY:
TRAVIS ENDICOTT, Mayor
ATTEST:
RICCA CHARLON, City Clerk
CERTIFICATION
I, Ricca Charlon, Chief City Clerk of the City of Ridgecrest, do hereby certify that Resolution No. 26-xx was duly adopted by the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest at a regular meeting held on the 15
th day of July, 2026, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Dated:
RICCA CHARLON, City Clerk
RESOLUTION NO. 26-XX
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RIDGECREST,
CALIFORNIA, REQUESTING THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF THE
COUNTY OF KERN TO CONSOLIDATE A GENERAL MUNICIPAL
ELECTION TO BE HELD ON NOVEMBER 3, 2026, WITH THE STATEWIDE
GENERAL ELECTION TO BE HELD ON THAT DATE, PURSUANT TO
§10403 OF THE ELECTIONS CODE
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest called a General Municipal Election to be held on November 3, 2026, for the purpose of the election of a Mayor and two Members of the City Council; and,
WHEREAS, it is desirable that the General Municipal Election be consolidated with the Statewide General Election to be held on the same date and that within the city the precincts, vote centers and election officers of the two elections be the same, and that the election department of the County of Kern canvass the returns of the General Municipal Election and that the election be held in all respects as if there were only one election.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RIDGECREST, CALIFORNIA, DOES HEREBY RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. Pursuant to the requirements of § 10403 of the Elections Code, the Board of Supervisors of the County of Kern is hereby requested to consent and agree to the consolidation of the City of Ridgecrest General Municipal Election with Statewide General election on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, for the purpose of the election of a Mayor and two Members of the City Council.
SECTION 2. The County election department is authorized to canvass the returns of the General Municipal Election. The election shall be held in all respects as if there were only one election, and only one form of ballot shall be used. The election will be held and conducted in accordance with the provisions of law regulating the statewide election.
SECTION 3. The Board of Supervisors is requested to issue instructions to the County election department to take any and all steps necessary for the holding of the consolidated election.
SECTION 4. The City Council authorizes the City Clerk to administer said election for the City and reimburse the County for all actual election expenses upon presentation of a properly submitted bill.
SECTION 5. The City Clerk is hereby directed to file a certified copy of this resolution with the Board of Supervisors and the County election department of the County of Kern.
Resolution No. 26-XX Page 2 of 2
SECTION 6. The City Clerk shall certify to the passage and adoption of this resolution and shall enter the same in the Book of Original Resolutions.
APPROVED and PASSED this 15
th day of July, 2026.
City of Ridgecrest, California
BY:
TRAVIS ENDICOTT, Mayor
ATTEST:
RICCA CHARLON, City Clerk
CERTIFICATION
I, Ricca Charlon, Chief City Clerk of the City of Ridgecrest, do hereby certify that Resolution No. 26-Xx was duly adopted by the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest at a regular meeting held on the 15
th day of July, 2026, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Dated:
RICCA CHARLON, City Clerk
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Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority
STAFF REPORT
SUBJECT: Approve A Resolution Of The City Council Of City Of Ridgecrest Reciting The Fact Of The Consolidated Statewide Direct Primary Municipal Election Held On Tuesday, June 3, 2026 Declaring The Result And Such Other Matters As Provided By Law PRESENTED BY: Ricca Charlon, City Clerk
SUMMARY:
A Consolidated Statewide Direct Primary Municipal Election was held On Tuesday, June 3, 2026.
The City of Ridgecrest had two (2) Measures qualified to be placed on the ballot.
The election was duly called and noticed in Resolution Nos. 26-03 and 26-04 adopted February 4, 2026, and the City consolidated with Kern County for election services.
Kern County has canvassed the votes and certified the election results. The certification is included as Attachment A.
This Resolution recites the facts of the Consolidated Statewide Direct Primary Municipal Election and declares the results.
FISCAL IMPACT: No Fiscal Impact
ACTION REQUESTED: Approve Resolution
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION:
Submitted by: Ricca Charlon Action Date: July 15, 2026
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RESOLUTION NO. 26 - Xx
A RESOLUTION OF THE RIDGECREST CITY COUNCIL RECITING THE FACT OF THE Consolidated Statewide Direct Primary Municipal Election Held On Tuesday, June 3, 2026 DECLARING THE RESULTS AND SUCH OTHER
MATTERS AS PROVIDED BY LAW
WHEREAS, a Consolidated Statewide Direct Primary Municipal Election was held and conducted in the City of Ridgecrest, California on Tuesday, June 3, 2026 as required by law; and, WHEREAS, notice of the election was given in time, form and manner as provided by law, that voting precincts were properly established; that election officers were appointed and that in all respects, the election was held and conducted and the votes were cast, received and canvassed and the returns made and declared in time, form and manner as required by the provisions of the Elections Code of the State of California for the voting of elections in general law cities; and, WHEREAS, pursuant to Resolutions 26-03 and 26-04, adopted, February 4, 2026, the County Election Department canvassed the returns of the election and has certified the results to this City Council, the results are received, attached and made a part hereof as Exhibit A.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE RIDGECREST CITY COUNCIL DOES HEREBY DECLARE, DETERMINE AND ORDER AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. That the whole number of votes cast for the City of Ridgecrest Council Member Term Measure B in the City was 6,134.
Section 2. That the whole number of votes cast for the City of Ridgecrest 4-year Mayoral Term Measure C in the City was 6,119.
Section 3. That the number of votes given at each precinct and the number of votes given in the City to each of the Measures above were as listed in Exhibit A attached.
Section 4. The City Council does declare and determine that as a result of the election, a majority of the voters voting on the measures listed in Sections 1 and 2 did not vote in favor of them, and that the measures were not carried, and shall not be deemed adopted and ratified.
Section 5. The City Clerk shall enter on the records of the City Council of the City, a statement of the result of the election showing: (1) The whole number of ballots cast in the City; (2) The Measures voted on; (3) The number of votes given at each precinct to each Measure; (5) The total number of votes given to each Measure.
Section 6. That the City Clerk shall certify to the passage and adoption of this resolution and enter it into the book of original resolutions.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 15
th day of July, 2026, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
__________________________
Travis Endicott, Mayor
ATTEST:
_________________________
Ricca Charlon, CMC, City Clerk
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Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority
STAFF REPORT
SUBJECT: A Resolution Of The Ridgecrest City Council Approving The Acceptance Of The California Cannabis Tax Fund Grant Program Grant Funds
PRESENTED BY: Mario Ysit, Chief of Police
SUMMARY: The California Highway Patrol has been delegated the responsibility by the Legislature of the State of California for the administration of the Cannabis Tax Fund Grant Program (CTFGP). Law Enforcement grants provide financial assistance to allied agencies for the education, prevention, and the enforcement of laws related to driving under the influence of alcohol and other drugs, including cannabis and cannabis products. The intent of this Cannabis Tax Fund Grant Program is to educate the public regarding the dangers of impaired driving, enforce impaired driving laws on the roadway, and improve the Organization/ Agency’s effectiveness through training and development of new strategies.
The Ridgecrest Police Department has applied and been awarded funding in the amount of $220,800.00 dollars, pending the approval of the City of Ridgecrest City Council. The grant will be administered by the Ridgecrest Police Department.
The Cannabis Tax Fund Grant Program will provide funding the reduction of impaired driving, collision-related injuries, and fatalities. By increasing proactive enforcement measures, further training personnel in Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFST’s), and
The Cannabis Tax Fund Grant Program will provide funding for: Two officers to attend the NHTSA Standardized Field Sobriety Testing / NHTSA Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement (ARIDE) POST certified training.
The Cannabis Tax Fund Grant Program will provide funding for one Ford Truck DUI Enforcement vehicle equipped with a Lenslock Camera System, a Motorola police radio for communications, emergency lights and low-profile lighting system. The Cannabis Tax Fund Grant Program will provide funding for one DUI Enforcement Motorcycle which will be outfitted with emergency lights and radio.
The Cannabis Tax Fund Grant Program will provide funding for 6 DUI Saturation patrols and one DUI Checkpoint.
These patrols will be 8 hours in length and aim to reduce DUI/ DUI deaths and injuries which will improve roadway safety in the community, incorporating mobile signage and social media outreach to enhance public awareness and deterrence efforts. The Cannabis Tax Fund Grant Program will also provide funding for two DUI presentations to educate the public on the dangers of drunk drinking.
The grant period begins July 1, 2026 and ends June 30, 2027. The grant requires 0% in part matching funds and the total project cost is $220,800.00. The grant funding will provide 100% reimbursement of the total project cost. No funds from the city’s general fund will be used to support the grant or project.
FISCAL IMPACT: Approximate revenue to the city in the amount of $220,800.00 ACTION REQUESTED: Approval of Resolution.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION: Action as requested
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RESOLUTION NO. 26-xx
A RESOLUTION OF THE RIDGECREST CITY COUNCIL APPROVING THE
ACCEPTANCE OF THE CALIFORNIA CANNABIS TAX FUND GRANT
PROGRAM GRANT FUNDS
WHEREAS, the California Highway Patrol has been delegated the responsibility by the Legislature of the State of California for the administration of the Cannabis Tax Fund Grant Program, setting up necessary procedures governing the application; and,
WHEREAS, said procedures established by the California Highway Patrol require the Applicant to certify by resolution the approval of the application to the State; and, WHEREAS, successful Applicants will enter into an agreement with the California Highway Patrol to complete the Grant Scope; and,
WHEREAS, the City of Ridgecrest Police Department was conditionally approved for $220,800.00 from the Cannabis Tax Fund Grant Program (CTFGP); and,
WHEREAS, The City of Ridgecrest Police Department wishes to accept the grant funds to reduce and mitigate the impacts of impaired driving in the community; and, WHEREAS, The grant funding will provide for the purchase of one DUI Patrol Enforcement Vehicle, one DUI Enforcement Patrol Motorcycle, six DUI Saturation patrols, one DUI Checkpoint, two DUI Presentations, and Standardized Field Sobriety/ ARIDE training for two officers.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City of Ridgecrest City Council hereby approves the filing of an application FOR the Cannabis Tax Fund Grant Program (CTFGP) and ACCEPT THE awarded amount OF $220,800.00; and
1. Certifies that said Applicant has or will have available, prior to commencement of any work on the project included in this application, the sufficient funds to complete the project if the grant is awarded; and
2. Certifies that if the project is awarded, the Applicant has or will have sufficient funds to operate and maintain the project, and
3. Certifies that the Applicant has reviewed, understands, and agrees to the General Provisions contained in the program regulations; and
4. Delegates the authority to City of Ridgecrest City Manager, or his designee to conduct all negotiations, sign and submit all documents, including, but not limited to applications, agreements, amendments, and payment requests, which may be necessary for the completion of the Grant Scope; and
5. Agrees to comply with all applicable federal, state and local laws, ordinances, rules, regulations and guidelines.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 15
th day of July, 2026, by the following vote.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
___________________________
Travis Endicott, Mayor
ATTEST:
_______________________
Ricca Charlon, City Clerk
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Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority
STAFF REPORT
SUBJECT: A Resolution Of The Ridgecrest City Council Authorizing Acceptance Of The State Of California, Office Of Traffic Safety Step Grant
PRESENTED BY: Mario Ysit, Chief of Police
SUMMARY:
The Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) has awarded funding to the City of Ridgecrest Police Department in the amount of $105,500.00. This grant is to be administered by the Ridgecrest Police Department.
The OTS grant program will provide funding for best practice strategies to be conducted in order to reduce the number of persons killed and injured in crashes involving alcohol and other primary collision factors. The funded strategies may include impaired driving enforcement, enforcement operations focusing on primary collision factors, distracted driving, night-time seat belt enforcement, special enforcement operations encouraging motorcycle safety, enforcement and public awareness in areas with a high number of bicycle and pedestrian collisions, and educational programs. These strategies are designed to earn media attention thus enhancing the overall deterrent effect.
The OTS (Office of Traffic Safety) grant program will provide funding for: officers to attend the NHTSA Standardized Field Sobriety Testing POST-certified training, NHTSA Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement (ARIDE) training, Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) training, and to attend DRE recertification training.
The OTS grant program will provide funding for: 6 DUI/ Driver’s License Checkpoints, 6 DUI Saturation Patrol operations, 4 enforcement operations (including but not limited to, primary collision factor violations), 1 DUI Warrant Service Operation, 1 pedestrian and/or bicycle enforcement operation(s) in areas resulting from violations made by pedestrians, bicyclists, and drivers, and 4 highly publicized Distracted Driving enforcement operation targeting drivers using hand held cell phones and texting. The OTS (Office of Traffic Safety) grant program will also provide funding for 2 Traffic Safety educational presentation with an effort to reach community members (Topics including distracted driving, DUI, speed, bicycle and pedestrian safety, seat belts and child passenger safety),1 Highly Visible Collaborative DUI Enforcement operation, and 1 Highly Visible Collaborative Traffic Enforcement operation, and 8 Community Collaboration Engagements. The OTS grant program will also provide funding for DUI training and DUI Checkpoint supplies.
The grant period begins October 1, 2026 and ends September 30, 2027. The grant requires 0% in part matching funds and the total project cost is $105,500. The grant funding will provide 100% reimbursement of the total project cost. No funds from the city’s general fund will be used to support the grant or project.
FISCAL IMPACT: Approximate revenue to the city in the amount of $105,500.00 ACTION REQUESTED: Approval of Resolution.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION: Action as requested:
Submitted by: Chief Mario Ysit Action Date: July 15, 2026 This Page Intentionally Left Blank
RESOLUTION NO. 26-XX
A RESOLUTION OF THE RIDGECREST CITY COUNCIL AUTHORIZING
APPLICATION FOR AND ACCEPTANCE OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA,
OFFICE OF TRAFFIC SAFETY STEP GRANT
WHEREAS, the Office of Traffic Safety, State of California, is offering Selective Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP) grants to employ enforcement and innovative strategies to reduce the number of persons injured and killed in traffic collisions, and; WHEREAS, approximately $ 105,500.00 revenue will be received by the city, and; WHEREAS, this grant does not require city matching funds, and; WHEREAS, this grant will reimburse the City for actual overtime expenditures and the purchase of safety equipment and training relating to traffic enforcement, and; WHEREAS, this grant will reimburse the City for the purchase of DUI Checkpoint Supplies, and training, and;
WHEREAS, this additional funding is to be used for DUI Enforcement, Primary Collision Factor Enforcement, Distracted Driver Enforcement, Driver’s License Enforcement, Traffic Safety Education, and the police department will administer said grant.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest authorizes the City Manager, or his designee, to apply for this reimbursement grant with the State of California, and to approve, sign and execute any and all documents relating to the grant award, including amendments, and;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the City Council authorizes the Finance Director to increase the FY27 budget revenue and expenditures in the amount of this grant, and; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, this resolution shall remain in full force and effect until a resolution of the City Council is adopted amending or rescinding this resolution.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED, this 15th day of July, 2026, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
Travis Endicott, Mayor
ATTEST:
Ricca Charlon, CMC
City Clerk
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Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority
STAFF REPORT
SUBJECT: Resolution Of The Ridgecrest City Council Authorizing The City Manager To Enter Into A Memorandum Of Agreement With Sierra Sands Unified School District For Law Enforcement Services (School Resource Officer Program)
PRESENTED BY: Mario Ysit, Chief of Police
SUMMARY:
For several years, the Ridgecrest Police Department has been providing law enforcement services to the Sierra Sands Unified School District (SSUSD) – School Resource Officer (SRO) Program. In 2013, a second SRO was added under a Department of Justice, COPS Hiring Program, which ended November 2016. SSUSD and the Police Department continued this second position to maintain services throughout the District.
SSUSD agrees to reimburse the City one-half of actual costs incurred by the City in employing the two (2) Police Officers. Actual cost shall be defined as officer’s salary and benefits, including, but not limited to, health insurance, life insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, PERS, educational incentive pay, uniform allowance, officer safety equipment, and overtime.
The agreement is attached to the resolution for your review as Exhibit A.
FISCAL IMPACT: (2) School Resource Officers – Reimbursed at 50% of actual costs (an estimated $155,000).
ACTION REQUESTED: Recommend approval by City Council authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to enter into an agreement with the SSUSD for law enforcement services (School Resource Officer Program).
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION: Action as requested
Submitted by: Mario Ysit, Chief of Police Action Date: July 15, 2026 This Page Intentionally Left Blank
RESOLUTION NO. 26 - Xx
RESOLUTION OF THE RIDGECREST CITY COUNCIL AUTHORIZING THE
CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT WITH
SIERRA SANDS UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT SERVICES (School Resource Officer Program)
WHEREAS, the Sierra Sands Unified School District (SSUSD) and the City of Ridgecrest have agreed to enter into Memorandum of Agreement for the Police Department to continue to provide School Resource Officer services in the School District, and; WHEREAS, the School Resource Officer (SRO) Program provides law enforcement services to the district helping ensure there is a safe learning environment at the elementary, middle and high schools for the students, faculty and staff, and; WHEREAS, it is beneficial to both the City and SSUSD that this program continue to function, and;
WHEREAS, SSUSD agrees to reimburse the City 50% of actual costs of the School Resource Officer Program.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest authorize the City Manager, or his designee, to enter into an agreement with the Sierra Sands Unified School District to provide law enforcement services (School Resource Officer Program), including any amendments.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 15
th day of July 2026, by the following vote.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Travis Endicott, Mayor
ATTEST:
Ricca Charlon, City Clerk
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1 AGREEMENT
THIS AGREEMENT is made and entered into by and between the City of Ridgecrest, a Municipal Corporation, hereinafter referred to as “CITY,” and the Sierra Sands Unified School District, a public entity, hereinafter referred to as “DISTRICT.” WHEREAS, DISTRICT does not maintain a school law enforcement agency pursuant to Section 38000(a) of the California Education Code, and DISTRICT wishes to acquire the services of two sworn peace officers, and
WHEREAS, CITY, through the Ridgecrest Police Department, hereinafter referred to as “RPD,” is willing to provide the service of two sworn peace officers.
NOW, THEREFORE, the parties hereto agree as follows:
1. CITY agrees to provide the services of two sworn peace officers to serve the DISTRICT at the primary and secondary schools within the Ridgecrest city limits, specifically Faller Elementary School, Gateway Elementary School, Las Flores Elementary School, Pierce Academy of the Arts, Richmond Elementary School, Vieweg STEM Academy, China Lake Junior High School, Mesquite High School, High Desert School, and Burroughs High School.
2. CITY shall supervise the officers through the command structure of the RPD.
3. DISTRICT shall appoint a designated individual to interface with RPD regarding activities of the officers and to interface with such officers in accordance with a joint operating protocol developed between RPD and DISTRICT.
The responsibilities of the SRO’s shall include, but not be limited to:
a. Handling requests for calls for service in and around schools b. Conducting comprehensive safety and security assessments c. Developing and implementing safety plans or strategies d. Responding to unauthorized persons on school property e. Serving as liaisons between the school and other police agencies, investigative units, or juvenile justice authorities when necessary and consistent with applicable civil rights laws and privacy laws
f. Serving as a member of a multidisciplinary school team to refer students to professional services within both the school (guidance counselors or social workers) and the community (youth and family service organizations) g. Building relationships with juvenile justice counselors to help connect youth with needed services
h. Developing and expanding crime prevention efforts for students
4. At all times during the term of this AGREEMENT, the officers shall be employees of the CITY, under supervision and control of CITY, and not an 2 employee or agent of DISTRICT; and CITY shall assume responsibility and liability for the activities of the officers.
5. During the term of this AGREEMENT, DISTRICT agrees to reimburse CITY one-half actual cost incurred by CITY in employing the officers. For purpose of this AGREEMENT, actual cost shall be defined as officer’s salary and benefits, including, but not limited to, health insurance, life insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, PERS, educational incentive pay, uniform allowance, officer safety equipment, and overtime.
6. THIS AGREEMENT shall be effective September 1, 2026 and remain in full force and effect for a 12-month period ending August 31, 2027. Either party may terminate this AGREEMENT prior to August 31, 2027, by giving ninety (90) days notice to the other party. Notice to CITY shall be in writing, and mailed to or delivered to:
City Manager
City of Ridgecrest
100 W. California Avenue, Ridgecrest, CA 93555
Notice to DISTRICT shall be in writing, and mailed or delivered to:
Superintendent
Sierra Sands Unified School District
113 W. Felspar Ave.
Ridgecrest, CA 93555
7. Each party to this AGREEMENT hereby holds the other harmless from all claims or lawsuits for damages to property and for injuries to persons arising from each party’s performance of its obligations under this AGREEMENT. This obligation will include providing a defense to lawsuits and related services.
8. In the event any dispute arises between the parties concerning the interpretation or enforcement of the Terms and Conditions of this AGREEMENT, the parties hereto agree to submit any such dispute to arbitration pursuant to rules of the American Arbitration Association. Any decision of the American Arbitration Association shall be binding on the parties hereto. In the event that any matter is submitted to arbitration or if legal action or proceeding is taken in connection with the interpretation or enforcement of this AGREEMENT, whether or not such action is arbitrated or litigated, the prevailing party of any such action, proceeding, or arbitration shall be awarded, in addition to its actual costs incurred, its actual attorneys’ fees incurred. Actual attorneys’ fees means all attorneys’ fees incurred by the prevailing party whether or not such attorneys’ fees are deemed to be “reasonable” by a court of competent jurisdiction or an arbitrator. Furthermore, the sole and exclusive remedy for the resolution of disputes concerning the enforcement and interpretation of this AGREEMENT shall be arbitration. 3 9. This AGREEMENT constitutes the sole and only agreement between the parties hereto. Any prior discussions, agreements or understandings, whether written or oral, are of no force and effect. This AGREEMENT may be modified only by a written agreement executed by both parties hereto.
FOR THE CITY OF RIDGECREST
___________________________ _________________
Travis Endicott, Mayor Date
___________________________ _________________
Travis Reed, City Manager Date
FOR THE SIERRA SANDS UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
______________________________ _________________
Robert Campbell, Board President Date
______________________________ _________________
Dr. April Moore, Superintendent Date
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Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority
STAFF REPORT
SUBJECT: A Resolution Approving a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) Between the City of Ridgecrest and Police Employees Association of Ridgecrest (PEAR)
PRESENTED BY: Travis Reed, City Manager
Summary
To remain competitive in recruiting and retaining qualified public safety employees. While the City's budget remains balanced, available resources for compensation enhancements are limited. City staff met and conferred with representatives of the Police Officers Association of Ridgecrest (PEAR) and are recommending that the City Council approve the attached Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The proposed MOU includes a restructuring of the salary schedule into a standardized six-step salary schedule, along with targeted compensation and benefit enhancements. These changes are intended to strengthen the City's ability to recruit and retain an experienced law enforcement workforce while remaining competitive with other regional law enforcement agencies facing similar recruitment and retention challenges.
Key PEAR compensation enhancements:
1. Restructured the salary schedule into a standardized six-step salary schedule and implemented targeted salary adjustments to bring classifications that were more than 10% below the market average to within 10% of the market average.
2. Increase in monthly medical benefits: Beginning January 1, 2027, the City will increase the monthly cafeteria plan contribution by up to $200 per month, limited to the amount of any increase in the employee-only (Tier 2) PERS Gold (or equivalent) medical premium.
3. Increase annual uniform allowance from $1,200 to $2,000.
4. New hires will receive all required uniforms and equipment upon hire, plus a prorated uniform allowance
5. Increased the annual tuition reimbursement from $500 to up to $1,250 for Associate Degree programs and up to $1,500 for Bachelor's and Master's Degree programs.
6. Term July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2029.
Exhibit A – PEAR MOU
FISCAL IMPACT: Included in FY27 Budget. Future increases in health insurance contributions beginning January 1, 2027, are capped and will only increase based upon actual increases in employee-only health insurance premiums ACTION REQUESTED: Adopt the Resolution.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION: Action as requested.
Submitted by: Reed Action Date: July 15, 2026
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RESOLUTION NO. 26 - xx
A RESOLUTION OF THE RIDGECREST CITY COUNCIL APPROVING A
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE CITY OF
RIDGECREST AND POLICE EMPLOYEES ASSOCIATION OF
RIDGECREST
The City Council of the City of Ridgecrest hereby approves a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the City of Ridgecrest and Police Employees Association of Ridgecrest (PEAR) and authorizes the City Manager to execute the agreement for a term effective July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2029.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest does hereby agree to the above and adopt this resolution.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 15th day of July 2026 by the following vote.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
Travis Endicott, Mayor
ATTEST:
Ricca Charlon, City Clerk
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2026-2029
CITY OF
RIDGECREST
& P.E.A.R.
MEMORANDUM OF
UNDERSTANDING
Memorandum of Understanding
City of Ridgecrest & P.E.A.R. 2026-2029
Memorandum of Understanding
City of Ridgecrest & P.E.A.R. 2026-2029
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section Title Page
I Recognition 1
II Scope of Agreement 1
III Term of Agreement 2
IV Membership 2
V Waiver of Obligation to Meet and Confer During the Term of the Memorandum of Understanding
2 VI Conclusiveness of Agreement 2
VII Prohibited Activities 3
VIII Association Rights 3
IX City Rights 4
X Retirement 5
XI Equipment 6
XII Seniority and Probationary Period 6
XIII Temporary Appointment 7
XIV Annual Vacation Leave 8
XV Holidays 9
XVI Sick Leave 10
XVII Bereavement Leave 11
XVIII Incentive Pay Plan 12
XIX Senior/Master Officer Designation 13
XX Tuition Reimbursement Plan 14
XXI Overtime 15
XXII Salary Schedule 17
XXIII Commensurate Rank 17
XXIV Longevity Pay 18
XXV Uniform Allowance 19
XXVI Health Benefits (Cafeteria Plan) 20
XXVII Payment for Standby Time 21
XXVIII Purging of Personnel Records 21
XXIX Use of Kerr McGee Center Facilities 22
XXX Severability 22
XXXI Grievance Procedure 22
XXXII Limited Duty 23
Exhibit
A
Vacation Schedule 25
Memorandum of Understanding
City of Ridgecrest & P.E.A.R. 2026-2029
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
Between
CITY OF RIDGECREST
and
POLICE EMPLOYEES ASSOCIATION OF RIDGECREST
Term of Agreement: July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2029
Ratification Date: July 15, 2026
This Memorandum of Understanding is entered into by and between the City of Ridgecrest, a municipal corporation (hereinafter referred to as the City), and the Police Employees Association of Ridgecrest, Incorporated (hereinafter referred to as the Association), pursuant to Government Code 3500 et seq., and City of Ridgecrest Resolution No. 76-21. It is understood that this Agreement is effective only upon ratification by the members of the Police Employees Association of Ridgecrest and approval by Resolution duly adopted by the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest. Hereinafter, this MOU may be referred to as the Agreement.
SECTION I RECOGNITION
The City recognizes the Association as representing the majority of the Police Department employees of the City of Ridgecrest. The Association represents the classifications consisting of Police Officer, Senior/Corporal Police Officer, Police Sergeant, Police Trainee, Animal Shelter Supervisor, Senior Animal Control Officer, Animal Control Officer, Kennel Attendant, Dispatcher, and Property Clerk.
SECTION II SCOPE OF AGREEMENT
This Agreement shall apply to only the following: Full Time/Regular and Probationary classifications consisting of Police Officer, Senior/Corporal Police Officer, Police Sergeant, Police Trainee, Animal Shelter Supervisor, Senior Animal Control Officer, Animal Control Officer, Kennel Attendant, Dispatcher, and Property Clerk.
SECTION III TERM OF AGREEMENT
Unless otherwise specifically provided for herein, all the terms, conditions and provisions of this Agreement shall become effective on July 1, 2026 and remain in full force through June 30, 2029 and shall apply only to members as specified in Section II.
It is further agreed that for the term of this Agreement, no other employee organization may seek recognition or petition for an election nor may the City recognize another organization representing Memorandum of Understanding
City of Ridgecrest & P.E.A.R. 2026-2029
these job classifications of the Police Department.
The terms and conditions of this Agreement are subject to a reopener provision. Upon the request of either party, the parties agree to reopen this Memorandum of Understanding to discuss modifications to salary and/or the health benefits plan in January 2027, January 2028, and January 2029. In addition, the parties agree to meet and confer at any time during the term of this Agreement in the event of a material change in regulatory or statutory provisions governing this Agreement or upon a declaration of fiscal emergency by the City Council.
SECTION IV MEMBERSHIP
(a) City agrees to deduct membership dues for Association members upon written request by the employee, submitted through the Association's Board. Notification must be received by the City ten (10) days prior to date of first deduction or date of termination of deduction.
City agrees to forward dues collected to the Association within thirty (30) days. (b) The Association agrees to hold City harmless and indemnify the City against any claims, causes of action and lawsuits, which may arise out of the dues deductions, or transmittal of such funds to the Association (exclusive of errors in computation made by the City).
SECTION V WAIVER OF OBLIGATION TO MEET AND CONFER DURING
THE TERM OF THE MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
As the City and the Association had the unlimited right and opportunity during the meet and confer process to make proposals with respect to any subject or matter not removed by law from the area of consultation of meet and confer, and as understandings and agreements were arrived at by the parties hereto which resulted in the Memorandum and subject to any exceptions contained herein, each voluntarily and unqualifiedly waives the right and each agree that the other shall not be obligated to meet and confer with respect to any subject or matter referred to or covered in this Memorandum
SECTION VI CONCLUSIVENESS OF AGREEMENT
This Memorandum of Understanding sets forth the full and entire understanding of the parties regarding the matters set forth herein. This agreement constitutes the sole and only agreement between the parties hereto. Any prior discussions, agreements or understandings, whether written or oral are of no force and effect.
Memorandum of Understanding
City of Ridgecrest & P.E.A.R. 2026-2029
SECTION VII PROHIBITED ACTIVITIES
(a) Prohibited Conduct
1. The Association, its officers, agents, representatives and/or members agree that during the term of this Memorandum of Understanding they will not call, engage in, or condone any strike, walkout, work stoppage, job action, slowdown, sick-out, blue flu, withholding of services or other interference with City operations, or honor any job action by any other employee of the City, or any other employers, by withholding or refusing to perform services.
2. Any employee who participates in any conduct prohibited in Section 1 above shall be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination by the City regardless of whether the Association carries out in good faith its responsibilities set forth in paragraph (b).
3. If the Association, Inc. participates or condones any conduct prohibited in Section 1, in addition to any judicial remedies available to the City against the Association and its officers, agents, representatives and/or members, or disciplinary action against Association members, agents, and representatives employed by the City, the City may suspend any and all of the rights and privileges accorded the Association under any ordinance, resolution, or rules and regulations of the City or any memorandum of understanding with the City, including but not limited to the suspension or recognition of such employee organization and the use of the City's bulletin boards and facilities.
(b) Association Responsibility
In the event that the Association, its officers, agents, representatives, or members engage in any of the conduct prohibited in Section 1 above, the Association shall immediately instruct, in writing, any persons engaging in such conduct that their conduct is in violation of the Memorandum of Understanding, and is unlawful and that they must immediately cease engaging in conduct prohibited in Section 1 above, and order their members to return to work. If the Association carries out its responsibilities under this Section in good faith, the City shall not bring suit against the Association for damages resulting from its engaging in prohibited conduct set forth in Section (a) above.
SECTION VIII ASSOCIATION RIGHTS
(a) The City agrees to grant official representatives of the Association the access and right to discuss any grievance or problem arising under the terms of this agreement with any affected employee during working hours.
Memorandum of Understanding
City of Ridgecrest & P.E.A.R. 2026-2029
The Association may, with the prior approval of the City Representative, be granted the use of City facilities for meetings of employees provided space is available. All such requests shall be in writing and shall state the purpose of the meeting, if not to conduct Association Business.
It is agreed that there be as little interference as possible by the Association Representatives during the working hours of employee or employees. It is agreed that the Association Representatives shall be permitted to conduct a reasonable amount of association business during working hours without the loss of pay. However, the Association agrees that the first responsibility of the department is to provide a service to the citizens of our community. Consequently, adequate staffing must be maintained. (b) Space shall be made available to recognized employee organizations on existing department bulletin boards within the representation unit provided such use does not interfere with the needs of the department and the material posted is not derogatory to the City, employees of the City or other employee organizations in the fair and equitable judgment of the City representative. No material shall be posted which refers to candidates for public office or ballot measures. Newsletters, correspondence and minutes of Association meetings shall not be deemed political.
SECTION IX CITY RIGHTS
(a) Management Rights
In order to ensure that the City shall continue to carry out its safety and protection services functions and responsibilities to the public as imposed by law, and to maintain efficient and responsive police and safety provisions for the citizens of the City of Ridgecrest, the City continues to reserve and retain solely and exclusively all rights including but not limited to:
1. Determine Police Department policy, including the right to manage the affairs of the Police Department in all respects.
2. Evaluate, direct, supervise, hire, promote, suspend, discipline, discharge, demote, transfer, assign, and retain members of the Police Department.
3. Relieve members of the Police Department from duties because of lack of work or funds, or under conditions where continued work would be ineffective or nonproductive, in accordance with the City's Rules and Regulations.
4. Determine standards and level of services to be rendered, operations to be performed, utilization of technology and equipment, means and methods of operation, and overall budgetary matters, including but not limited to the right to Memorandum of Understanding
City of Ridgecrest & P.E.A.R. 2026-2029
contract or sub-contract any work, services, or operations of the Police Department.
5. Determine the appropriate job classifications, organizational structure, and personnel by which Police Departmental operations are conducted.
6. Determine the size and composition of the Police Department, assign members of the Police Department, and establish work schedules and assignments.
7. Determine the issues of public policy, and control the overall mission of the Police Department.
8. Maintain and improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the Police Department.
9. Take any necessary actions to carry out the mission of the Police Department in situations of emergency.
10. Establish performance standards for members of the Police Department, including but not limited to quality and quantity standards.
11. Take whatever other actions may be necessary to carry out the wishes of the City and Public, and for police protection not otherwise specified above.
12. Establish and promulgate rules, regulations, policies and procedures relating to productivity, efficiency, conduct, health, and safety; as well as the rules, regulations, policies, and procedure designed to comply with applicable judicial decisions and legislative enactment’s and to require compliance therewith. (b) Impact of Management Rights
Where required by law or in the event of a contract or sub-contract that would affect any current position of the association, the City agrees prior to implementation, to meet and confer with the Ridgecrest Police Employees Association regarding the impact of its exercise of management rights.
SECTION X RETIREMENT
a) The City agrees to keep the retirement plans in effect during the term of this agreement as referenced below.
i. Eligible Classic Sworn members shall be provided 3% @ 55. ii Eligible PEPRA Sworn members shall be provided 2.7% @ 57 iii. Eligible Classic Non-sworn members shall be provided 2.7% @ 55. iv Eligible PEPRA Non-sworn members shall be provided 2% @ 62 Memorandum of Understanding
City of Ridgecrest & P.E.A.R. 2026-2029
b) The City will only contribute its contracted portion for eligible sworn and non-sworn employees.
c) The City agrees that the employee death benefit shall be $5,000. d) The City agrees that for Association member retiree’s whose retirement date is between March 17, 2005 and September 1, 2011 shall be entitled to retiree health payments in the amount of $100.00 per month providing that verified proof of health coverage naming the retiree as a participant is presented to the City bi-annually no later than 45 days from December 15 and July 15. Members who retire after September 1, 2011 shall receive health payments of $250 per month under the same terms.
SECTION XI EQUIPMENT
The City shall supply sworn personnel with the following safety equipment: Firearm and protective vest. All other equipment will be furnished by the employee. Assigned safety equipment will be used by the sworn employee to whom it is assigned. The employee will be responsible to replace all equipment except firearms and protective vest that fails to meet departmental standards. Any such replacements or additional safety equipment must meet departmental standards.
The equipment provided by the City of Ridgecrest shall remain the property of the City and the individual is responsible for the proper care and maintenance. However, upon written approval by the Chief of Police, protective vests may be transferred to the employee upon termination of service.
Sworn officers working a field assignment shall wear a protective vest, all others shall be encouraged to wear a protective vest. Violations of this requirement shall be enforced and subject to reimbursement of cost to the City if not worn or disciplinary action as outlined in the Police Department Policy and Procedure Manual.
SECTION XII SENIORITY AND PROBATIONARY PERIOD
Seniority will be defined by time in rank. If two employees have equal time in rank, seniority will be based on highest score of promotional or hiring exam.
Seniority shall be the primary but not exclusive consideration in scheduling a single period of vacation leave for each member and for the bidding of shifts. Vacation bids shall be conducted on an annual basis for the calendar year as established by department policy.
The probationary period is part of the examination process. It is a work-test period during which the employee's performance and the conduct on the job are evaluated to determine whether or not the employee is fully qualified for permanent appointment. Probationary Period for sworn Memorandum of Understanding
City of Ridgecrest & P.E.A.R. 2026-2029
personnel shall be eighteen months. Probationary period for non-sworn personnel shall be twelve months.
Any cumulative absence from the performance of the employee’s usual customary duties during the probationary testing period in excess of 240 hours shall automatically result in the extension of the probationary testing period in an amount of time equal to the total number of hours during the probationary testing period which necessitated implementation of said particular section, i.e., by 240 or more hours.
Probationary period for employees who are appointed from a promotional list shall be twelve months before that employee is eligible to attain permanent status. However, if an employee currently holds a temporary appointment for the position to which they are being promoted, then up to 3 months of the temporary appointment served shall be credited toward the probationary period.
SECTION XIII TEMPORARY APPOINTMENT
(a) The department head, with approval of the City Manager, retains the right to temporarily assign an employee to an acting position of the next higher rank within the Department.
Employee shall meet all eligibility requirements for the position. Temporary appointment shall not exceed six (6) months, at which time, the next person on the promotional list shall replace the effected employee, if one is available, or the next senior person, who meets the eligibility requirements shall be temporarily appointed. However, with the mutual consent of the Chief of Police, City Manager, and the Executive Board of the Association, Inc. a temporarily assigned employee may be extended one (1) additional six (6) month period. (b) An employee who has been temporarily appointed to a position in a higher classification for a period of eighty (80) consecutive hours shall be compensated, beginning at the eightyfirst (81st) hour, at the salary schedule for that position in at least Step 1, or a manner by which the employee would realize a five percent (5%) pay increase, in recognition of extra duties performed retroactive to the first (1st) hour the employee was temporarily appointed to the position in the higher classification.
(c) Any promotional eligibility list shall be established by a competitive examination and shall be valid for twelve months from date established, after which it shall become invalid and be abandoned. By mutual agreement between City and the Executive Board of the Association, Inc. a promotional list may be extended one time, for a period of time not to exceed 12 months. The City shall maintain promotional eligibility lists for all promotional positions covered by this MOU except Police Officer.
Memorandum of Understanding
City of Ridgecrest & P.E.A.R. 2026-2029
SECTION XIV ANNUAL VACATION LEAVE
The purpose of annual vacation leave is to enable each eligible employee annually to return to his work mentally and physically refreshed. All employees covered by this provision shall be entitled to take annual vacation leave with pay except employees who have served the City less than one (1) year.
Commencing with the first anniversary of each eligible employee, the employee shall be eligible to take annual vacation leave up to the amount accumulated when the leave is initiated. Each eligible employee shall earn annual vacation at the rate indicated in Exhibit A. An employee may earn a maximum of 208 hours of vacation per year. Maximum vacation accrual shall be twice the employee’s accrual rate, at which time accrual of additional hours shall cease until the employee’s vacation bank is below his/her maximum accrual.
Earned vacation leave shall be taken at any time, except as described in subparagraphs (a) and (b) of this section:
(a) The times which an employee may take his/her vacation shall be determined by the Department Head with due regard for the wishes of the employee with particular regard for needs of the service.
(b) If the requirements of the service are such that an employee cannot take all of his/her annual vacation as he/she desires, the employee’s supervisor shall make every effort to find an alternative time to take vacation time, or the entire vacation may be paid for at the discretion of the appointing power. This is a non-pensionable buy out for both classic and PEPRA members.
(c) In the event that one or more municipal holidays fall within an annual vacation leave, such holidays shall not be charged as vacation leave.
(d) In the event that the employee, who has been authorized their annual vacation leave period, is directed by the Chief of Police to return to duty, then that employee shall be eligible for that duty time paid as regular time and the same amount as vacation time. (ie. RG6, VA6) This is a non-pensionable buy out for both classic and PEPRA members. (e) Each member may annually, at the sole discretion of the member, convert the cash value of no more than 18 hours of available vacation directly into the employee’s 457b plan.
Conversion requests shall be submitted by the member to the Finance Director via the employee’s Department Head no later than June 1 each year. Payments will occur after the deadline at a time determined by the Finance Director.
Persons terminating from the service of the City shall be compensated for vacation earned and accrued.
Memorandum of Understanding
City of Ridgecrest & P.E.A.R. 2026-2029
SECTION XV HOLIDAYS
(a) The holidays to be observed annually by the members of the Police Employees Association of Ridgecrest are as follows:
New Year's Day
Martin Luther King Day
Presidents’ Day
Memorial Day
Independence Day
Labor Day
Veteran's Day
Thanksgiving Day and the day after
Christmas Day and the day after
48 Hours for Floating Holidays
Any day designated by the City as an Administrative Action Holiday No permanent or probationary employee in the competitive service shall be required to be on duty on these holidays, unless the employee's services are needed or required in the interest of public health, safety or general welfare, in which latter event, such employee will be entitled to Holiday hours for their regularly scheduled shift to be compensated at a rate of time and one half, in the form of either compensatory time off or pay at the discretion of the employee. Only employees who work a holiday or holidays shall be entitled to time and one half compensation.
When a holiday falls on a Sunday, the following Monday shall be observed. When a holiday falls on a Saturday, the proceeding Friday shall be observed. If a holiday falls on an employee's regularly scheduled time off, compensation will be at straight time in the form of either pay or compensatory time off at the discretion of the employee. However, uniformed officers assigned to patrol shifts and dispatchers shall observe holidays on the actual calendar day on which they fall.
The City of Ridgecrest will provide all full-time employees floating holidays on an accrual basis and can be used when employees have a need to be off work for any reason. A new full-time employee receives a one-time advance of twenty-four (24) hours of floating holiday. Employees will accrue floating holiday hours on a per pay period basis with a maximum of .923 hours per pay period or twenty-four (24) hours per year.
Employees may carry over unused FLOATING HOLIDAYS from one fiscal year to the next with a maximum of forty-eight (48) hours. At any time, employees can only have a maximum of fortyeight (48) hours in the bank and accrual will start again once their accrued balance drops below the maximum cap.
Furthermore, Floating and Vacation time can be cashed out pursuant to the Vacation/Floating Memorandum of Understanding
City of Ridgecrest & P.E.A.R. 2026-2029
Leave Cash- Out Policy 27-01. This cash out will be considered a non-pensionable compensation for both classic and PEPRA members
All FLOATING HOLIDAYS must be scheduled in advance and approved by the supervisor except in cases of sudden illness or emergency. Floating holiday hours may be used in combination with other accrued leave hours such as: vacation leave, sick leave, and comp time, in order to get a full day’s worth of paid time off. Any employees who separate from the City service shall receive pay for all unused accrued floating holiday hours.
SECTION XVI SICK LEAVE
Employees shall be entitled to take sick leave with pay as accrued. Sick leave shall not be considered as a right that an employee may use at his/her discretion, but shall be allowed only in case of necessity and actual non-industrial physical illness or disability. Sick leave shall accrue at the rate of four (4) hours per pay period for each pay period worked.
Partial credit will be given for partial pay periods worked.
Employees shall be able to accumulate unlimited sick leave for the purpose of actual physical illness or disability.
The cash-out of a qualified employee's accumulated unused sick leave, vacation leave, or compensatory time shall be paid at a rate that includes any applicable premium incentive pays identified in Sections XVII, XX, XXII(E), and XXIII, including Educational Incentive Pay, Other Incentive Pays, Special Designation Pays, and Longevity Pay, that the employee is receiving at the time of the cash-out.
For purposes of this section, a qualified employee is defined as a full-time employee who has attained permanent status and is not serving a probationary period.
The inclusion of premium incentive pays in the cash-out calculation applies only to employees who retire from City service. Employees who separate from City service for any reason other than retirement shall have their accumulated unused leave cashed out at their base salary rate only, without the inclusion of premium incentive pays.
At the employee’s option, for retirement purposes, accumulated sick leave may be cashed-out as outlined in this section, partially cashed-out, the unused portion of sick leave can be then used for calculation of a service retirement credit.
Employees who have five years or more of service, shall be entitled to accumulate for conversion purposes, a maximum of 320 hours, and are entitled to fifty percent (50%) of the value of their accumulated sick leave at the time of termination of employment by resignation or removal from City service.
Memorandum of Understanding
City of Ridgecrest & P.E.A.R. 2026-2029
Employees who have ten years or more of service, shall be entitled to accumulate for conversion purposes, a maximum of 640 hours, and are entitled to a maximum of seventy-five percent (75%) of the value of their accumulated sick leave at the termination of employment by resignation or removal from City service.
Employees who have fifteen years or more of service, shall be entitled to accumulate for conversion purposes, a maximum of 960 hours, and are entitled to a maximum of seventy-five percent (75%) of the value of their accumulated sick leave at the termination of employment by resignation or removal from City service.
Employees who have twenty-five years or more of service, shall be entitled to accumulate for conversion purposes, a maximum of 1152 hours, and are entitled to a maximum of one hundred percent (100%) of the value of their accumulated sick leave at the termination of employment by resignation or removal from city service.
If the employee is absent on sick leave, he/she shall notify his/her immediate supervisor or the personnel officer prior to the time set for beginning his/her daily duties. The employee may be required to file a physician's certificate with his/her Department head.
Sick Leave use will be based on applicable Federal and State Law.
An employee receiving temporary disability payments under the worker's compensation laws may use accumulated sick leave in order to continue to maintain his/her regular income in those cases where the illness or injury is non-industrial in nature.
Sick leave shall only be utilized in case of incapacitating, non-industrial illness or injury.
Therefore, it is expressly understood and agreed that accumulated sick leave in an industrially injured employees’ sick leave account, shall not be exhausted or converted to cash prior to the effective date of an industrial disability retirement or any other time. For example, if an employee is permanent and stationary in relation to an industrial injury, yet has 500 hours of accumulated sick leave, the disability retirement shall be effective immediately regardless of sick leave hours remaining on account at the time of the employee being eligible for retirement.
In the event of an industrial injury to a non-sworn member of the Association, Inc., the City will make employee whole for lost wages not paid by workers compensation up to 60 days per accepted claim.
SECTION XVII BEREAVEMENT LEAVE
All employees who have been employed by the City for at least 30 days are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave in the event of the death of a “family member” For the purpose of this section, ‘immediate family’ shall mean the spouse or registered domestic partner, parent, grandparent, child, sibling, (including step), cohabitants living fulltime in the same household as Memorandum of Understanding
City of Ridgecrest & P.E.A.R. 2026-2029
the member, and spouse’s immediate family.
An employee may use vacation, personal leave, accrued and available sick leave, or compensatory time off in order to provide for their compensation during any bereavement leave in excess of five (5) days.
An employee who utilizes bereavement leave shall notify their supervisor or Department Head of the intent to use such leave. Employees may use such leave on a non-consecutive basis in the three (3) months that follow that date of death of the “family member.”
SECTION XVIII INCENTIVE PAY PLAN
The purpose of the Incentive Plan is to encourage members of the Association to improve themselves through education and training on their off time and thus increase their value to the City of Ridgecrest and at the same time improve their promote-ability and efficiency in their chosen career of law enforcement. Upon recommendation of the Chief of Police, the City Manager may authorize an original appointee to be eligible for compensation upon appointment.
To be eligible to participate in the Incentive Plan, a member must comply with the following requirements:
a) Be a Member of the Association
i. Sworn Members may be eligible to receive incentive pay as outlined in this section, at the time of original appointment for an accredited degree held by the member or upon successful completion of an approved course of study. For the purposes of this agreement, ‘accredited’ refers to the accreditation of the institution, at the time of award, by any accrediting agency recognized by the secretary of the U.S. Department of Education (e.g. Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Distance Education and Training Council, etc.).
ii. Non-Sworn members may be eligible to receive incentive pay upon successful completion of an approved course of study taken while employed with the City of Ridgecrest Police Department. (example: A dispatcher hired with an AA/AS degree goes back to school, with City Manager approval and receives BA/BS in criminal justice or related field of study is eligible to receive incentive pay for BA/BS degree only.)
b) Indicate his/her desire, in writing, to participate in the Incentive Pay Plan. This request shall be to the City Manager via the Chief of Police.
c) Schedule of Compensation
Memorandum of Understanding
City of Ridgecrest & P.E.A.R. 2026-2029
1. Degree/Certificate Incentive pay
a) 5% of salary for any employee acquiring an AA Degree b) 5% of salary for any employee acquiring an Intermediate P.O.S.T. Certificate c) 5% upon obtaining an Advanced P.O.S.T. Certificate
d) 5% of salary upon receiving a BA Degree
e) for the purposes of this section, earning a Baccalaureate degree in the absence of an Associates degree shall be interpreted as having earned both degrees in order to recognize that the requirements of the Associates degree are encompassed in the Baccalaureate degree program requirements.
Notwithstanding the above, total Degree/Certificate Incentive Pay shall not exceed 17.5%.
2. Other Incentive Pay
a) Bilingual incentive pay shall not exceed 2.5%. The Chief of Police shall solely determine whether a language is subject to bilingual incentive pay. In addition, to receive bilingual pay the member must pass the language fluency test administered by City Personnel as established by City Policy.
b) 2.5% incentive pay for Canine Handlers
c) 10% incentive for Field Training Officers and Dispatchers while performing FTO training duties.
d) 5% incentive for any Officer or Sergeant assigned to Investigations Unit and who supervises, is assigned cases or does special investigations. e) 5% incentive pay while an Officer is assigned as an officer-in-charge in patrol.
Each incentive pay will be calculated individually based upon base rate for all hours paid except overtime.
SECTION XIX SENIOR/MASTER OFFICER DESIGNATION
(A) PURPOSE
The purpose of the Senior/Master Officer designation is to provide recognition to sworn officers who have dedicated a substantial portion of their careers to the service of the City of Ridgecrest.
Said recognition is designed to identify tenured officers and create a title and insignia between the ranks of police officer and police sergeant.
(B) POLICY
The title of Senior/Master Officer, and corresponding uniform insignia, is strictly for the purpose Memorandum of Understanding
City of Ridgecrest & P.E.A.R. 2026-2029
of recognition. No position of supervisory authority shall be derived from said designation. (C) REQUIREMENTS
SENIOR OFFICER: A minimum of six and one-half (6 ½) years of service as a sworn officer with the Ridgecrest Police Department, attainment of Step 6 and possession of a Peace Officer’s Standards and Training and Training (POST) Intermediate Certificate.
MASTER OFFICER: A minimum of twelve and one-half (12 ½) years as a sworn officer with the Ridgecrest Police Department, attainment of Step 6 and possession of a Peace Officer’s Standards and Training (POST) Advanced Certificate. (D) COMPENSATION
1. Senior Officer rank will receive 1% of base pay.
2. Master Officer rank will receive an additional 1% of base pay.
SECTION XX TUITION REIMBURSEMENT PLAN
The purpose is to encourage members to pursue courses of study or technical training that will enable them to become more proficient in their jobs.
Eligibility
a) All permanent, full time members.
Applicability
a) The course or training must be applicable to the member's current job classification and related to the Law Enforcement field or required subjects towards a degree, as approved/determined by the City Manager.
b) Courses attended must be accredited as defined in section XVII (a) (i). c) All courses attended must be completed with a satisfactory record of achievement and attendance. Grade average shall be a C or above to be satisfactory. School records may be required.
d) All time spent on class work shall be on off-duty time and shall not entail any cost to the City.
Memorandum of Understanding
City of Ridgecrest & P.E.A.R. 2026-2029
e) Tuition reimbursement shall not be paid until satisfactory completion of the course. f) Should a member withdraw from a course through no fault of the department or become separated from this department's employ for any reason prior to completion of that course, he/she shall not be eligible for compensation.
Authorization
(a) Prior to registering for said course or training, an eligible employee may submit a request for tuition reimbursement through the Chief of Police to the City Manager for a course or training meeting the above criteria.
(b) If approved by the City Manager, and upon successful completion of the course of study with a satisfactory or better grade, the employee will be reimbursed for 100% of tuition, books, parking and related expenses, as mutually agreed by the member and City Manager prior to incurring the expense up to a maximum of:
i. $1,250 for pursuit of an Associate’s Degree per fiscal year. ii. $1,500 for pursuit of a Bachelor’s/Master’s Degree per fiscal year.
If the member receives funding from other sources such as Veterans Benefits, Law Enforcement Assistance Grants, etc., the City will pay the difference up to the maximum allowed as in Section (b) above.
SECTION XX I OVERTIME
The Department Head retains the right to make assignments and scheduling decisions based upon the needs of the department and the community. As such, the Department Head will be responsible for all decisions concerning staffing levels and the specific hours of individual shifts as well as special assignments such as traffic or investigations.
Any employee who has authorization from the Police Chief or his/her designee is required to work additional hours over and above the regularly scheduled work period, as defined herein, shall be paid at the rate of one-and-one-half times the employee’s regular rate (includes base rate plus incentive pay).
The Police Chief may at his/her discretion, assign overtime between divisions of the Police Department. As an example, an employee normally assigned to Investigation may be assigned overtime in the Patrol Division.
Work Period
Pursuant to adoption of a 7(k) exemption under the Fair Labor Standards Act (29 U.S.C. § 207(k)), Memorandum of Understanding
City of Ridgecrest & P.E.A.R. 2026-2029
the work period shall be 14 consecutive days. During this contract period, an employee is eligible for overtime pay for hours worked in excess of eighty (80) hours of normal work hours, compensatory time, sick leave, vacation leave, paid administrative leave and holidays during the fourteen-day (14) period. The pay period commences every other Monday, lasts fourteen (14) full days, and ends on Sunday.
Notwithstanding the above, payroll is entered on a daily basis but overtime is paid after the eightieth hour worked during a pay period.
Method of Compensation for Overtime
Members shall be compensated for overtime worked at the rate of one and one half times their regular rate. Members, however, may elect to receive compensatory time off in lieu of pay.
Compensatory time may be placed in a time bank to be used later at a time agreed upon by both the member and the Unit Commander or the Commander’s designee. The compensatory time bank shall have a maximum accrual of one hundred sixty (160) hours. Employees may elect to receive compensatory time off in lieu of pay for holidays, which for this case will be accrued at straight time.
Overtime Allocation
Management will make a reasonable effort to offer overtime by seniority and appropriate job classification. However, Management reserves the right to assign overtime to specific employees based on their cultivated skills, demonstrated abilities, past performance and developed expertise, when the need arises.
Call Back Time
An employee who is called out for work by the Chief of Police or his/her authorized designee, after regularly scheduled working hours, shall be paid a minimum of two (2) hours at the rate of one-and-one-half times the employee’s regular rate.
When an employee is called back within two hours of the beginning of the employee’s next shift, call back credit shall be received only for the hours remaining before the beginning of the employee’s next shift.
Court Cancellation
When a court appearance is canceled:
1. Division Commanders or their designees shall notify employees of cancellations or postponement of scheduled court appearances. Absent notice from the Division Commander or designee, the employee shall initiate contact with the District Attorney’s Memorandum of Understanding
City of Ridgecrest & P.E.A.R. 2026-2029
Office for confirmation of the scheduled appearance. Contact shall be made on the last business day proceeding the day of appearance in accordance with Department Standard Operating Procedures. Collect telephone calls will be accepted for this purpose.
2. If an employee reports to a canceled or postponed proceeding in response to a subpoena, or official process, without having initiated the preliminary contact described herein, no compensation or expenses will be paid.
Sick leave, vacation time, compensatory time, paid administrative leave, and holiday time shall be considered as hours worked for computing overtime, except as set forth in SECTION XV.
SECTION XXII SALARY SCHEDULE
The monthly compensation schedule for those positions represented by the Association shall be as follows:
Upon written satisfactory evaluations, step increases will be effective on an employee’s annual evaluation date.
SECTION XXIII COMMENSURATE RANK
(a) Allocation to Steps
The Personnel Officer shall allocate employee positions to steps within the ranges specified in this compensation plan.
(b) Merit Advancement Within Ranges
The Personnel Officer shall allocate employee positions to steps within the ranges specified in the compensation plan.
Memorandum of Understanding
City of Ridgecrest & P.E.A.R. 2026-2029
(c) Advancement Not Automatic
Advancement from step to step in any range shall not be automatic, but shall depend upon increased service value of an employee to the City as exemplified by the recommendation of his/her department head to the City Manager, length of service, performance record, special training undertaken, or other pertinent evidence. (d) Advancement for Outstanding Performance
The City Manager upon the recommendation of a Department Head may advance an employee to the next highest step within the range for the employee's class as a reward for outstanding performance but only after the employee has served a minimum of three months in the step from which he/she is to be advanced. No salary advancement shall be made so as to exceed the maximum step established in the compensation schedule for the class to which the employee's position is allocated.
(e) Original Appointments
An employee will normally be placed in Step 1 of his/her position's class range upon original appointment, except that employees may be placed in a higher step of the same range after consideration of previous experience and qualifications and upon approval of the City Manager.
(f) Promotion
An employee who is promoted to a higher rank in a promotional series is guaranteed a minimum five percent (5%) increase in salary calculated on total prior salary including base including Senior Officer and/or Master Officer pay.
SECTION XXIV LONGEVITY PAY
Sworn Officers who have served the City for ten (10) years shall receive two and one half percent (2.5%) of base pay per year in additional compensation thereafter up to year fifteen (15); at fifteen (15) years Sworn Officers shall receive two and one half percent (2.5%) of base pay per year in additional compensation thereafter up to year twenty (20); Sworn Officers who have served the City for twenty (20) years shall receive two and one half percent (2.5%) of base pay per year in additional compensation thereafter until separation of service or transferring to a position not represented by this Association. Total Longevity pay after twenty (20) years shall be seven and one half percent (7.5%) of base pay per year. Payments shall be made in 26 equal installments.
Memorandum of Understanding
City of Ridgecrest & P.E.A.R. 2026-2029
SECTION XXV UNIFORM ALLOWANCE
(a) The City of Ridgecrest will pay uniform allowance to be paid semiannually the first full pay period of July and the first full pay period of January as follows:
Uniformed Sworn Personnel: Two Thousand Dollars ($2,000.00) per year. Whose job assignment requires the purchase of motorcycle specific items including motorcycle boots, motor pants, glasses, etc. shall be paid an additional two hundred ($200.00) per year. This is a pensionable earnable compensation for classic members reported and paid bi-annually in advance.
Non-Uniformed Sworn Personnel: One Thousand Dollars ($1,000.00) per year. (Assignment on July 1 and January 1 shall determine the eligibility of Uniform Allowance classification). This is a pensionable earnable compensation for classic members reported and paid bi-annually in advance.
Animal Control Officer: Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00) per year.
Community Service Officer: Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00) per year.
Dispatchers: Six Hundred Fifty Dollars ($650.00) per year. (b) New Employee: Any newly hired employee shall be provided the uniforms and equipment necessary to perform their assigned duties upon commencement of employment. The specific uniform and equipment items to be provided shall be mutually agreed upon by the City and the Union. In addition, each newly hired employee shall receive a prorated uniform allowance based on the number of months remaining in the applicable allowance period.
(c) Police Trainee: The City shall provide and pay for all uniforms and equipment required for academy training. Upon notification that a trainee is scheduled to graduate from the academy, the City shall purchase and issue the employee's required Class A uniform. The City reserves the right to determine the appropriate timing for the purchase and issuance of the Class A uniform, provided it is available for the employee's use upon graduation or assignment to duties requiring the Class A uniform. Upon successful graduation from the academy and appointment as a sworn police officer, each newly hired employee shall be provided the uniforms and equipment necessary to perform their assigned duties. In addition, each newly hired sworn police officer shall receive a prorated uniform allowance based on the number of months remaining in the applicable uniform allowance period.
It is understood that uniform allowance is paid in advance, therefore if an employee separates from service, then that employee shall reimburse the City based upon a pro-rated monthly basis of the unused uniform allowance from their final pay.
Memorandum of Understanding
City of Ridgecrest & P.E.A.R. 2026-2029
SECTION XXVI HEALTH BENEFITS (CAFETERIA PLAN)
Effective January 1, 2025, the City will contribute to the cafeteria program for each employee enrolled in the City sponsored CalPERS Health Plan:
Table #1
Tier 1 Tier 2 Tier 3 Tier 4
No Med Emp. Emp. +1 Emp. +2+
Monthly -0- $890 $1,473.16 $1,881.40
The employee, through authorized payroll deduction, shall contribute any additional required premium. Employees hired after July 1, 2021, who elect not to enroll in the city sponsored CalPERS Health Plan, shall receive a cash out of $400 per month upon evidence semiannually of enrollment in a major medical insurance plan.
Employees hired before July 1, 2021, who elect not to enroll in the City sponsored CalPERS Health Plan, shall receive a cash out pursuant to Table #2 per month upon evidence semiannually of enrollment in a major medical group insurance plan.
Table #2
Tier 1 Tier 2 Tier 3 Tier 4
No Med Emp. Emp. +1 Emp. +2+
Monthly -0- $575 $738 $936
. Effective January 1, 2027, the City agrees to increase the monthly cafeteria plan contribution by an amount equal to any increase in the employee's out-of-pocket premium cost for employee-only (Tier 2) PERS Gold medical insurance coverage (or its equivalent successor plan), up to a maximum increase of Two Hundred Dollars ($200.00) per month.
The increase shall be determined solely by the change in the employee-only (Tier 2) PERS Gold premium and shall be applied as the same dollar increase to the monthly cafeteria plan contribution for all eligible employees, regardless of the medical plan or coverage tier selected.
Example: If the employee-only (Tier 2) PERS Gold out-of-pocket premium increases by $80 per month, the City's monthly cafeteria plan contribution shall increase by $80 per month for all eligible employees. Accordingly, the cafeteria plan contribution for employees enrolled in Employee + One, Family, or any other coverage tier shall also increase by $80 per month. If the employee-only (Tier 2) PERS Gold out-of-pocket premium increases by more than $200 per Memorandum of Understanding
City of Ridgecrest & P.E.A.R. 2026-2029
month, the maximum increase to the monthly cafeteria plan contribution for all eligible employees shall be $200 per month.
During employment with the City, employees shall be provided with a term life insurance policy equal to one times the employee’s annual base salary; premiums to be paid by the City. The employee may increase his/her term life insurance policy at his/her expense.
SECTION XXVII PAYMENT FOR STANDBY TIME
A. Employees required to remain on court stand-by on other than their regular work hours, shall receive a minimum of two (2) hours of pay at straight time and a maximum of six (6) hours of pay at straight time.
B. No stand-by pay will be paid unless stand-by status is authorized by the Police Chief or his/her designee.
C. An employee called in for a court appearance shall be compensated a minimum of two (2) hours at one-and-one-half times the employee’s regular rate of pay.
SECTION XXVIII PURGING OF PERSONNEL RECORDS
(a) The letters of reprimand not involving suspension or demotion may be removed from the personnel file four (4) years from date of letter. The same or similar offense causing the first letter to be inserted in the personnel folder shall, within the two-year period, cause the first letter to be retained in the file until the time the second letter is to be removed. This applies to subsequent offenses as well.
(b) The letters of reprimand involving suspension or demotion should be permanent records unless a time for removal is set forth in the letter of reprimand. (c) Where letters of reprimand set forth in Section (b) above are removed, a notation on the employee's status form shall indicate "action taken for disciplinary reasons" without setting forth cause of action at time of filing Change of Status form. (d) When letters of reprimand set forth in Section (b) above are not self-obliterating, the employee shall be permitted to request the removal of the letter after the letter has been in the file for a period of not less than four (4) years. In order for the file to be purged as set forth in this paragraph, it shall be necessary that there be majority concurrence of the City Manager, Chief of Police and Association President.
(e) In the event the employee is not satisfied with the decision derived from the action set forth Memorandum of Understanding
City of Ridgecrest & P.E.A.R. 2026-2029
in paragraph (d), he/she may appeal that decision to the City Council to be considered in closed session. The decision of the City Council shall be final.
SECTION XXIX USE OF KERR MCGEE CENTER FACILITIES
Each member, the member’s spouse, and dependent children shall be permitted to use the Sgt.
John Pinney Aquatics Center and the Kerr McGee physical activity facility during regular operating hours at no charge, providing that said activity is not being directed by an instructor for which a special fee is being charged of others and no additional cost is incurred by CITY. The City also provides a 20% discount for City ran programs (Day Camp, Soccer, Basketball and Flag Football programs only).
SECTION XXX SEVERABILITY
If any provision of Memorandum is held invalid or unconstitutional by any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall have no effect on the validity of the remaining provisions of this Agreement, and such provisions shall continue to remain in full force.
SECTION XXXI GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE
Purpose of Grievance Procedures
(a) To promote improved employer-employee relations.
(b) To provide that grievance shall be settled as near as possible to the point of origin. (c) To provide that the grievance procedures shall be as informal as possible.
A "grievance" shall be defined as a misinterpretation or misapplication of this Agreement by a person who is adversely affected or by the Association if the grievance affects the Association's rights, i.e. SECTION’s I, III, IV, V, VI, and VII.
STEP 1
An employee's grievance must be submitted in writing to the first line supervisor or management representative immediately in charge of the aggrieved employee within fifteen (15) working days after the event giving rise to the grievance. The supervisor or management representative will give his/her answer to the employee by the end of the fifth (5th) working day following the presentation of the grievance and the giving of such answer will terminate Step 1. For the purposes of this section ‘working day’ shall be defined as regular non-holiday, non-weekend days of normal operation for City Administration.
Memorandum of Understanding
City of Ridgecrest & P.E.A.R. 2026-2029
STEP 2
If the grievance is not settled in Step 1, the grievance shall be reduced to writing by the employee, fully stating the facts surrounding the grievance and detailing the specific provisions of this Agreement alleged to have been violated, signed and dated by the employee, and the Association and the appropriate management representative shall within five (5) working days after the termination of Step 1, arrange a meeting to be held at a mutually agreeable location and time to review and discuss the grievance. Such meeting will take place within ten (10) working days from the date the grievance is referred to Step 2. A decision shall be rendered within five (5) working days from the date of such meeting.
Time limits as set forth above may be extended by mutual agreement between the parties, but neither party shall be required to so agree.
It is not intended that the grievance procedure be used to effect changes in the established salary and fringe benefits.
STEP 3
Upon receipt of the appeal by the City Manager, he or his designee shall discuss the grievance with the employee, his/her representative, if any, and other appropriate persons. The City Manager shall render his decision and comments in writing, and return them to the employee within fifteen (15) working days after receiving the appeal. If the employee does not agree with the decision reached, or if no answer has been received within fifteen (15) working days, he/she may appeal to the binding arbitration step, Step 4, within ten (10) working days.
STEP 4
In the event the issue is not resolved after Step 3 decision is issued by the City Manager, the sole and exclusive remedy of the dispute shall be binding arbitration. The parties will request a list of seven names of arbitrators from the State Mediation and Conciliation Service. The list will be narrowed down to one name after alternate strikeouts of the parties. The arbitrator will be given copies of the contract, the grievance, responses, and the positions of the parties on the issues. The parties shall have the right to present evidence in support or defense of the issues. The arbitrator will render a binding written opinion.
The cost associated with this arbitration shall be shared equally by City and P.E.A.R.
SECTION XXXII LIMITED DUTY
The City may provide limited duty for employees who have physical limitations due to off-duty injuries or illnesses, subject to the following conditions:
Memorandum of Understanding
City of Ridgecrest & P.E.A.R. 2026-2029
(a) The availability of limited duty and the ability of the employee to perform the limited duty shall be determined by the department head, taking into consideration the employee's job description.
(b) An employee who is on limited duty shall immediately notify the department when the employee is available for normal duty and shall give the department a physician's statement indicating that the employee may return to normal duty.
AGREED: AGREED:
_____________________________
TRAVIS REED
City Manager P.E.A.R. President
DATED: _______________
______________________________
P.E.A.R. 1st Vice President
______________________________
P.E.A.R. 2nd Vice President
DATED: ______________
Memorandum of Understanding
City of Ridgecrest & P.E.A.R. 2026-2029
EXHIBIT "A"
VACATION SCHEDULE
for members of
POLICE EMPLOYEES ASSOCIATION OF RIDGECREST
NO. OF YEARS
EMPLOYED
RATE OF ACCRUAL IN
HOURS PER PAY PERIOD HOURS/YEAR
MAXIMUM
ACCRUAL
0-4 3.08 80 160
5-9 4.62 120 240
10-14 6.16 160 320
15-19 7.70 200 400
20+ 8.00 208 416
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Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority
STAFF REPORT
SUBJECT: A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest Authorizing an Amendment to the City of Ridgecrest PARS Alternate Retirement System (ARS) Plan
PRESENTED BY: Travis Reed, City Manager
Summary
As part of the City's ongoing efforts to maintain fiscal responsibility while continuing to provide competitive employee benefits, staff recommends modifying the contribution structure for employees hired or rehired on or after July 1, 2026.
Under the proposed amendment:
• Employees hired or rehired before July 1, 2026, will remain subject to the current contribution structure of
3.75% Employer and 3.75% Employee contributions.
• Employees hired or rehired on or after July 1, 2026, will contribute the full 7.50% employee contribution, and the City's employer contribution will be reduced to 0%.
The proposed amendment does not change the total contribution required under the Plan. Rather, it changes how the required 7.50% contribution is allocated between the City and newly hired or rehired employees.
Existing employees are not affected by this amendment.
Exhibit A – Amendment to the City of Ridgecrest PARS
FISCAL IMPACT: The proposed amendment will reduce the City's retirement contribution costs for employees hired or rehired on or after July 1, 2026. The fiscal impact will occur gradually through normal employee turnover and future hiring and is expected to generate long-term savings while maintaining compliance with federal requirements for employees not covered by Social Security
ACTION REQUESTED: Adopt the Resolution.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION: Action as requested.
Submitted by: Reed Action Date: July 15, 2026
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RESOLUTION NO 26-Xx
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RIDGECREST
AUTHORIZING AN AMENDMENT TO THE PARS ALTERNATE
RETIREMENT SYSTEM (PARS ARS)
WHEREAS, the City of Ridgecrest (the “City”) maintains the City of Ridgecrest PARS Alternate Retirement System (the “Plan”), an alternate to Social Security plan amended and restated effective July 1, 2021, for all eligible employees who are not accruing a benefit under Social Security or another retirement system provided and maintained by the City; and
WHEREAS, the City reserves the right to amend the Plan from time to time pursuant to Section
8.3 of the Plan; and
WHEREAS, the Plan currently provides for a three and seventy-five hundredths (3.75%) Employer contribution and a three and seventy-five hundredths (3.75%) Employee contribution for all Employees eligible to participate in the Plan; and
WHEREAS, the City deems it to be in the best interest of the City and the Plan to amend the current contribution split for eligible Employees hired or rehired on or after July 1, 2026, to a zero percent (0%) Employer Contribution and a seven and one-half percent (7.50%) Employee Contribution.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest does resolve as follows:
1. The City Council hereby authorizes amending the contribution split under the Plan for eligible Employees hired or rehired on or after July 1, 2026, to a zero percent (0%) Employer contribution and a seven and one-half percent (7.50%) Employee contribution; and
2. The City Council hereby authorizes the City Manager, as the Plan Administrator, to execute the Plan amendment substantially in the form attached as Exhibit A, with any modifications that the City Manager deems necessary or appropriate to reflect the intent of these resolutions.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
______________________________
Travis Endicott, Mayor
ATTEST:
___________________________________
Ricca Charlon, City Clerk
EXHIBIT A
AMENDMENT TO THE
CITY OF RIDGECREST
PARS ALTERNATE RETIREMENT SYSTEM (PARS ARS)
WHEREAS the City of Ridgecrest (the “Employer”) maintains the City of Ridgecrest PARS Alternate Retirement System (the “Plan”), an alternate to Social Security plan amended and restated effective July 1, 2021, for all Eligible Employees; and WHEREAS the Employer reserves the right to amend the Plan from time to time pursuant to Section 8.3 of the Plan; and
WHEREAS the Employer desires to amend the current Employee and Employer contribution split for Eligible Employees hired or rehired on or after July 1, 2026.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Plan is hereby amended as follows:
1. Article III, Section 3.1, Amount of Employer Contributions, is amended in its entirety to read:
3.1 Amount of Employer Contributions
There is hereby created and established and shall be maintained by the Plan Administrator the Employer Contribution Account. The Employer shall make contributions to the Plan as set forth below:
Tier I
For Compensation earned during each day that an Employee, hired prior to July 1, 2026, remains a Participant under Tier I of this Plan, the Employer shall make a contribution of three and seventy-five hundredths percent (3.75%) of Compensation.
Tier II
For Compensation earned during each day that an Employee, hired or rehired on or after July 1, 2026, remains a Participant under Tier II of this Plan, the Employer shall make a contribution of zero percent (0%) of Compensation.
Such contribution shall be made no later than the close of the Plan Year. These amounts shall be credited to the Employer Contribution Account. Employer Contributions will be allocated to each Participant in the ratio that such Participant’s compensation bears to the compensation of all Participants.
2. Article III, Section 3.2, Amount of Employee Contributions, is amended in its entirety to read:
3.2 Amount of Employee Contributions
There is hereby created and established and shall be maintained by the Plan Administrator the Employee Contribution Account. The Employee shall make contributions to the Plan as set forth below:
Tier I
For Compensation earned during each day that an Employee, hired prior to July 1, 2026, remains a Participant under Tier I of this Plan, the Employee shall make a contribution of three and seventy-five hundredths percent (3.75%) of Compensation.
Tier II
For Compensation earned during each day that an Employee, hired or rehired on or after July 1, 2026, remains a Participant under Tier II of this Plan, the Employee shall make a contribution of seven and one-half percent (7.50%) of Compensation.
Such contribution shall be credited to the Employee Contribution Account. In accordance with Section 414(h) of the Code and Sections 1.21 and 1.23 of this Plan, the contributions required under this Section 3.2 shall be Pick Up Contributions. Pick Up Contributions shall meet the requirements of Revenue Ruling 2006-43.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this Amendment is hereby adopted effective as of July 1, 2026
CITY OF RIDGECREST
By:
Travis Reed
Its: City Manager
Dated:
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Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority
STAFF REPORT
SUBJECT: A Resolution Approving by Reference and Authorizing Execution of the Compensation Plans for the Management, Mid-Management, Confidential, and Part-Time Employee Groups PRESENTED BY: Travis Reed, City Manager
Summary
The City's Mid-Management and Confidential Compensation Plans required updates to reflect current compensation, benefits, employment laws, and operational practices. In addition, the City developed new Compensation Plans for the Management and Part-Time employee groups to formally establish compensation, benefits, and terms and conditions of employment. The proposed plans also standardize all employee salary schedules into a six-step salary structure, providing consistency across employee groups and supporting compliance with applicable CalPERS compensation reporting requirements.
To remain competitive in recruiting and retaining qualified employees who provide essential public services, the City must continue addressing the compensation gap. To help guide these efforts, the City completed a comprehensive Total Compensation Study evaluating the competitiveness of employee compensation and benefits. The study informed the proposed salary adjustments and compensation enhancements included in the plans. While the City's budget remains balanced, available resources for compensation enhancements are limited. Staff met with representatives of the Mid-Management and Confidential employee groups and recommends approval of the attached Compensation Plans. The proposed enhancements are intended to strengthen the City's ability to recruit and retain an experienced workforce while remaining competitive with comparable regional public agencies.
Key Mid-Management compensation enhancements:
1. Restructured the salary schedule into a standardized six-step salary schedule and implemented targeted salary adjustments to bring classifications that were more than 10% below the market average to within 10% of the market average.
2. Increase in monthly medical benefits: Increase in monthly medical benefits: Beginning January 1, 2026, the City will increase the monthly cafeteria plan contribution by up to $200 per month, limited to the amount of any increase in the employee-only (Tier 2) PERS Gold (or equivalent) medical premium.
3. Increased the annual tuition reimbursement from $500 to up to $1,250 for Associate Degree programs and up to $1,500 for Bachelor's and Master's Degree programs.
4. The annual vacation accrual cap is increased from 200 hours to 208 hours.
5. Term July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2029
Key Confidential Employee compensation enhancements:
1. Restructured the salary schedule into a standardized six-step salary schedule and implemented targeted salary adjustments to bring classifications that were more than 10% below the market average to within 10% of the market average.
Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority
STAFF REPORT
2. Increase in monthly medical benefits: Beginning January 1, 2026, the City will increase the monthly cafeteria plan contribution by up to $200 per month, limited to the amount of any increase in the employee-only (Tier 2) PERS Gold (or equivalent) medical premium.
3. Separated and clarified bilingual pay, establishing a standalone 2.5% bilingual pay
4. New language clarifies that employees using approved accrued leave during their regular work schedule remain eligible for overtime compensation for authorized hours actually worked outside their normal schedule, consistent with the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and California law.
5. The annual vacation accrual cap is increased from 200 hours to 208 hours.
6. Term July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2029
Key Management Plan provisions:
1. Establishes the City's first formal Management Compensation Plan to supplement individual employment agreements for Management employees. In the event of a conflict, the individual employment agreement shall prevail.
Key Part- Time Plan provisions:
1. Restructured the salary schedule into a standardized six-step salary schedule
2. Establishes the City's first comprehensive Compensation Plan for Part-Time, Seasonal, Temporary, and Limited Duration employees, defining compensation, employment status, and applicable benefits.
3. Updates the PARS Alternate Retirement System contribution structure for non-benefited employees, maintaining the current contribution split for existing employees and implementing a 0% City/7.5% employee contribution for employees hired or rehired on or after July 1, 2026.
Exhibit A – Confidential Employees Compensation Plan
Exhibit B – Mid-Management Employees Compensation Plan
Exhibit C – Management Compensation Plan
Exhibit D – Part- Time Compensation Plan
FISCAL IMPACT: Included in FY27 Budget. Future increases in health insurance contributions beginning January 1, 2027, are capped and will only increase based upon actual increases in employee-only health insurance premiums.
ACTION REQUESTED: Adopt the Resolution
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION: Action as requested
Submitted by: Reed Action Date: July 15, 2026
RESOLUTION NO. 26 - xx
A RESOLUTION OF THE RIDGECREST CITY COUNCIL APPROVING BY
REFERENCE AND AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF COMPENSATION
PLANS WITH THE MANAGEMENT, MID-MANAGEMENT, CONFIDENTIAL
AND PART-TIME EMPLOYEE GROUPS
The City Council of the City of Ridgecrest hereby approves by reference and authorizes the City Manager to execute compensation plans between the City of Ridgecrest and the Management, Mid-Management, Confidential And Part-Time Employee Groups for the term July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2029 effective July 1, 2026.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest does hereby agree to the above and adopt this resolution.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 15th day of July 2026 by the following vote.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
Travis Endicott, Mayor
ATTEST:
Ricca Charlon, City Clerk
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2026-2029
City of
Ridgecrest
Confidential Group Compensation
Plan July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2029
City of Ridgecrest
Confidential Group Compensation Plan
2026-
2029
City of Ridgecrest
Confidential Group Compensation Plan
2026-
2029
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION SECTION TITLE PAGE
1 SALARY SCHEDULE & POSITIONS 1
2 LONGEVITY PAY 1
3 HEALTH BENEFITS 1
4 SCHEDULING 2
5 ACCRUED LEAVE USAGE AND OVERTIME ELIGIBILITY 3
6 HOLIDAYS 3
7 ANNUAL VACATION LEAVE 4
8 SICK LEAVE 5
9 BEREAVEMENT LEAVE 6
10 LEAVES OF ABSENCE 6
11 WORKERS COMPENSATION 7
12 RETIREMENT 7
13 ANNUAL EVALUATION & PERFORMANCE PLAN 7
14 OUT OF CLASS TEMPORARY APPOINTMENT 8
15 TUITION REIMBURSEMENT 8
16 EDUCATION INCENTIVE PAY 9
17 BILINGUAL PAY 10
18 USE OF KERR MCGEE FACILITIES 10
19 EFFECTIVE DATE 10
20 REPEALS 11
EXHIBIT “A” VACATION TABLE 11
EXHIBIT “B” SALARY SCHEDULE 12
City of Ridgecrest
Confidential Group Compensation Plan
2026-
2029
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CONFIDENTIAL PLAN
July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2029
1. SALARY SCHEDULE & POSITIONS
(a) Confidential employees shall be compensated in accordance with the published Salary Schedule. Available to view on the city’s website. Also attached as Exhibit “B”.
(b) Position List
POSITION TITLE POSITION TITLE
Account Clerk Information Systems Technician
Accountant Junior Accountant
Accounts Payable Technician Payroll Technician
Accounts Receivable Specialist Police Clerk Supervisor
Administrative Analyst I Recreation Assistant
Administrative Analyst II Streets Foreman
Cultural Affairs Coordinator Transit Administrator/Dispatcher Human Resources Administrator Transit Operations Supervisor Information Systems Specialist WasteWater Foreman
2. LONGEVITY PAY
Confidential members who have completed twenty (20) years of service with the City shall receive additional pensionable compensation equal to two and one-half percent (2.5%) of base pay. This pensionable compensation is available for both classic and PEPRA members reported and paid on 26 pay periods. Employees shall continue to receive this compensation for as long as they remain in a position represented by this compensation agreement, until separation from service or transfer to a position not represented by this agreement.
3. HEALTH BENEFITS
Effective January 1, 2025, the City will contribute to the cafeteria program for each employee enrolled in the City sponsored CalPERS Health Plan:
Table #1
Tier 1 Tier 2 Tier 3 Tier 4
Outside Medical Emp. Emp. + 1 Emp. + 2+
Monthly $400 $890 $1473.16 $1881.40
City of Ridgecrest
Confidential Group Compensation Plan
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The employee, through authorized payroll deduction, shall contribute any additional required premium. Employees hired after July 1, 2021, who elect not to enroll in the city sponsored CalPERS Health Plan, shall receive a cash out of $400 per month upon evidence semiannually of enrollment in a major medical insurance plan.
Employees hired before July 1, 2021, who elect not to enroll in the City sponsored CalPERS Health Plan, shall receive a cash out pursuant to Table #2 per month upon evidence semiannually of enrollment in a major medical group insurance plan.
Table #2
Tier 1 Tier 2
Outside Med Outside Med w/City Dental
Monthly $450 $575
Effective January 1, 2027 the City agrees to increase the monthly cafeteria plan contribution by up to Two Hundred Dollars ($200.00) per month, not to exceed the amount of any increase in the out-of-pocket premium cost for employeeonly (Tier 2) PERS Gold (or equivalent if name change) plan medical insurance coverage.
By way of example, if the employee-only premium increases by $200.00 above the current cafeteria contribution amount, the Council contribution shall increase by the amount of that overage. Any premium costs exceeding the Council’s contribution increase shall remain the responsibility of the employee.
Example: there is an approximate Sixty Dollar ($60.00) difference between the cafeteria contribution and the employee-only insurance premium. Should the employee-only premium increase by an additional Eighty Dollars ($80.00), the employee out-of-pocket cost would total approximately One Hundred Forty Dollars ($140.00). In such event, the cafeteria contribution would be increased by One Hundred Forty Dollars ($140.00) per month and would apply equally to all participating employees, including those enrolled in single, employee plus one, and family coverage plans.
4. SCHEDULING
The department head, with the approval of the City Manager, retains the right to make assignments and scheduling decisions, including the right to change the starting and ending times of employees’ shifts, based upon the needs of the department and the community. As such, the Department Head will be City of Ridgecrest
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responsible for all decisions concerning staffing levels and the specific hours of individual shifts as well as special assignments.
5. ACCRUED LEAVE USAGE AND OVERTIME ELIGIBILITY
Employees using approved accrued leave during regularly scheduled work hours remain eligible for overtime compensation for all authorized hours actually worked outside their normal workday or regular schedule. Required attendance at meetings, trainings, callbacks, emergency responses, remote assignments, or other authorized duties outside scheduled hours shall be treated as hours worked for overtime purposes in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), California law, and this Compensation Plan.
Approved leave shall not offset or reduce overtime compensation owed for hours actually worked. All overtime work must be authorized in accordance with department policy, personnel rules and this Compensation Plan.
6. HOLIDAYS
Confidential employees will observe the following holidays. However, if a holiday falls on a Friday, the holiday will be observed the preceding Thursday.
The Liberal City Holiday after Thanksgiving and Christmas may be taken as a Liberal Holiday the week of or the week immediately following the actual Holiday Date.
New Year’s Day
Martin Luther King Jr. Day
President’s Day
Memorial Day
Independence Day
Labor Day
Veteran’s Day
Thanksgiving Day
Liberal City Holiday (the day after Thanksgiving)
Christmas Day
Liberal City Holiday (the day after Christmas)
24 Floating Holiday Hours
Any day designated by the City as an Administrative Action Holiday The City of Ridgecrest will provide all full-time employees floating holidays on an accrual basis and can be used when employees have a need to be off work for any reason. A new full-time employee receives a one-time advance of 24 hours of floating holiday. Employees will accrue floating holiday hours on a per pay period basis with a maximum of .923 hour per pay period or 24 hours per year.
City of Ridgecrest
Confidential Group Compensation Plan
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2029
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Employees may carry over unused FLOATING HOLIDAYS from one fiscal year to the next with a maximum of 48 hours. At any time, employees can only have a maximum of 48 hours in the bank and accrual will start again once their accrued balance drops below the maximum cap.
All FLOATING HOLIDAYS must be scheduled in advance and approved by the supervisor except in cases of sudden illness or emergency. Floating holiday hours may be used in combination with other accrued leave hours such vacation leave, sick leave, and comp time in order to get a full day’s worth of paid time off. Any employees who separate from the City service shall receive pay for all unused accrued floating holiday hours.
7. ANNUAL VACATION LEAVE
All members shall be entitled to take vacation leave with pay, except members who have served the CITY less than six months.
Commencing with the successful completion of six months of service, the member may take vacation leave up to the amount accumulated when the leave is initiated. Each eligible member shall accrue annual vacation at the rate indicated in Exhibit “A” attached, earning a maximum of 208 hours per year.
i. Each member may accrue vacation time at a maximum of two (2) times the corresponding annual accrual rate for which the member is eligible as indicated in Exhibit “A”. Upon reaching the maximum accrued vacation time, further accrual will cease until member has used sufficient vacation time to bring his/her accrual below the maximum. The times in which a member may take vacation shall be determined by the Department Head with due regard for the wishes of the member with particular regard for needs of the service. ii. Each member may annually, at the sole discretion of the member, convert the cash value of no more than 20 hours of available vacation directly into the member’s 457b plan. Conversion requests shall be submitted by the member to the Finance Director via the member’s Department Head no later than June 1 each year. Payments will occur after the deadline at a time determined by the Finance Director, subject to available budgeted funds.
iii. If the requirements of service are such that member cannot take all of his or her annual vacation in a particular year, the accrued vacation time may be banked or paid for at the discretion of City not to exceed the maximum accrual described herein.
City of Ridgecrest
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In the event that one or more municipal holiday(s) fall within a member’s annual vacation leave, the holiday(s) shall not be charged as vacation leave.
Any member who separates from service with CITY shall receive pay for all accrued vacation.
8. SICK LEAVE
Employees shall be able to accumulate all earned sick leave for the purpose of actual illness or disability.
Employees who have less than five years of service shall not be entitled to cash out of his/her sick leave accrual at the time of termination of employment by resignation or removal from City service. Employees who have five years or more of service, depending on his/her years of service, shall be entitled to accumulate for conversion purposes, between 320 to 960 hours, and the table below will show the percentage he/she is entitled to cash out at the time of termination of employment by resignation or removal from City service.
Confidential Accumulated Sick Leave Cash Out Table
Years of Service Maximum Hours Cash Out Value
Less than 5 none none
5 + less than 10 320 hours 75%
10 + less than 15 640 hours 75%
15 + 960 hours 75%
If an employee is absent on sick leave, he/she shall notify his/her immediate supervisor or the personnel officer prior to the time set for beginning his/her daily duties. The employee may be required to file a physician’s certificate with his/her Department Head.
Accrued sick leave may be taken in case of an employee’s presence being required elsewhere because of sickness, disability or death of a members of his/her immediate family. The City agrees to follow applicable laws pertaining to the use of sick leave for family medical leave.
An employee receiving temporary disability payments under the Worker’s Compensation Laws may use accumulated sick leave in order to continue to maintain his/her regular income.
City of Ridgecrest
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9. BEREAVEMENT LEAVE
All employees who have been employed by the City for at least 30 days are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave in the event of the death of a “family member. For the purpose of this section, “family member” shall include the spouse or registered domestic partner, child (including step-children), parents (including step-parents and parents-in-law), siblings (including stepsiblings and siblings-in-law), grandparents (including grand parents-in-law), and other cohabitants living full-time in the same household as the member acting as a family unit.
An employee may use vacation, personal leave, accrued and available sick leave, or compensatory time off in order to provide for their compensation during any bereavement leave in excess of five (5) days.
An employee who utilizes bereavement leave shall notify their supervisor or Department Head of the intent to use such leave. Employees may use such leave on a non-consecutive basis in the three (3) months that follow that date of death of the “family member.”
10. LEAVES OF ABSENCE
The CITY provides family and medical care leave for eligible employees as required by State and Federal law. Employees who misuse or abuse family and medical care leave may be disciplined up to and including termination.
Employees who fraudulently obtain or use CFRA leave are not protected by the CFRA’s job restoration or maintenance of health benefits provisions. This Policy is supplemented by the Federal Family and Medical Leave Act (“FMLA”), and the California Family Rights Act (“CFRA”). Unless otherwise stated in this Policy, “Leave” means leave pursuant to the FMLA and CFRA. Unless otherwise provided by law, the CITY will run each employee’s FMLA and CFRA leaves concurrently.
Although family and medical care leave is unpaid, an employee may elect and the CITY will require an employee to concurrently use all paid accrued leaves during family and medical care leave as described below.
An employee may use any earned or accrued paid leave except sick leave for all or part of any unpaid family and medical care leave. An employee is entitled to use sick leave concurrently with family and medical care leave for the employee’s own serious health condition or that of the employee’s parent, spouse, domestic partner or child.
If an employee takes a leave of absence for any purpose which also qualifies under both the FMLA and CFRA, the CITY will designate that leave as running concurrently with the employee’s 12-week FMLA/CFRA leave entitlement.
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Employees will continue to be covered by the CITY’s group health insurance for up to twelve (12) weeks to the same extent that coverage is provided while the employee is on the job. If the employee is disabled by pregnancy, coverage will continue up to four (4) months. If an employee disabled by pregnancy also uses leave under the CFRA for baby-bonding, the CITY will maintain her coverage while she is disabled by pregnancy (up to four [4] months or 17 1/3 weeks) and during her CFRA leave (up to twelve [12] weeks).
Employees whose leave of absence extends beyond FMLA/CFRA leave are eligible to maintain benefits under COBRA. Employees would pay the benefit premiums and a small administrative fee for continuation of benefits.
11. WORKERS COMPENSATION
In the event of an industrial injury to a Confidential member, the City will make employee whole for lost wages not paid by worker’s compensation up to the first three days per accepted claim.
12. RETIREMENT
The City agrees to provide all eligible members who are considered “classic members” based on PEPRA rules with a retirement plan with the benefit factor of 2.7% at 55 thru CalPERS. For members who fall under the “new member” classification of PEPRA, the City agrees to provide them with a retirement plan with the benefit factor of 2% at 62.
The members of this group thru payroll deduction agree to pay the required employee contribution rates.
City will pay the actuarially determined minimum employer contribution rates for both member classifications.
13. ANNUAL EVALUATIONS & PERFORMANCE PLANS
In conjunction with the annual evaluating process, the supervisor and employee will share responsibility to create a Performance Plan. This Plan is a written document to define several goals for the employee to work on during the prospective year. The Plan has the flexibility to be changed when circumstance arise that may affect the ability of the employee to accomplish the stated goals, but any changes shall be approved by the Department Head after consultation with the employee and supervisor. The employee’s success with the City of Ridgecrest
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performance Plan will be one element of consideration by the supervisor when completing the annual evaluation.
The City Manager, upon the recommendation of a Department Head, may advance an employee to the next highest step within the range of the employee’s class as a reward for outstanding performance but only after the employee has served a minimum of three months in the step from which the employee is to be advanced. No salary advancement shall be made so as to exceed the maximum step established in the compensation schedule for the class to which the employee’s position is allocated.
14. OUT OF CLASS TEMPORARY APPOINTMENT
The Department Head, with approval of the City Manager, retains the right to temporarily assign an employee to an acting position within the department.
The City reserves the right, within its sole discretion, to assign employees within this unit to work outside of their regular classification. The employee shall meet all eligibility requirements for the position. An employee who has been temporarily appointed to an out of class temporary position in a higher classification for a period of over forty (40) consecutive hours shall be compensated, beginning at the 1st hour, with a 5% pay increase, in recognition of extra duties performed. This pensionable compensation is available for both classic and PEPRA members reported and paid on 26 pay periods.
15. TUITION REIMBURSEMENT
The purpose is to encourage employees to pursue courses of study or technical training that will enable them to become more proficient in their jobs.
Eligibility – All permanent, full-time employees.
Applicability
(a) The course or training must be directly applicable to the member’s current job classification or related to a position to which the member might reasonably aspire within CITY’s organizational structure, including management positions, as determined by the City Manager. (b) All coursework must be completed during non-working hours at no cost to City.
Authorization
City of Ridgecrest
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(a) An eligible member participating in the reimbursement program must submit a request and receive the corresponding approval for tuition/fee reimbursement from the City Manager via the member’s Department Head for a course or training meeting the above criteria, prior to registering for the course or training.
(b) All degree coursework must be from an educational institution currently accredited by an accrediting organization recognized by the secretary of the U.S. Department of Education.
(c) If approved by the City Manager, and upon successful completion of the course of study with a satisfactory or better grade (e.g. letter grade of C or better on a scale of A-F, grade of pass on a scale of pass-fail), the member will be reimbursed for 100% of tuition/fee and/or books up to the maximum authorized amount.
(d) The member is responsible for the cost of all books, tuition, fees, and related charges in excess of the reimbursement limit.
(e) The maximum annual reimbursement per member for approved coursework shall be $1,250 for coursework in an Associate Degree program, $1,500 for a Bachelor’s degree program or a Master’s Degree program and may be allocated to the specific cost areas listed in the tuition reimbursement request approved by the City Manager and as budget is available.
16. EDUCATION INCENTIVE PAY
The purpose of the Educational Incentive Plan is to encourage full-time employees to improve themselves through education and training on their off time and thus increase their value to the City of Ridgecrest and at the same time improve their ability to promote and efficiency in their chosen career within the City.
To be eligible to participate in the Plan, a member must comply with the following requirement:
(a) Be a full-time permanent member of City staff and have passed the probationary period.
(b) Schedule of Compensation:
(1) Five percent (5%) of salary for any member acquiring an A.A., or any certificate deemed by the City Manager as pertinent/beneficial to CITY. Acquiring the degree/certificate must be at no cost to the City other than participation in the tuition reimbursement program.
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2029
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(2) Five percent (5%) of salary for any member acquiring a relevant B.S., B.A., M.S., M.A. Acquiring the degree must be at no cost to the City other than participation in the tuition reimbursement program.
(3) Total Education Incentive shall not exceed ten percent (10%). This pensionable compensation is available for both classic and PEPRA members reported and paid on 26 pay periods.
It is understood by the Confidential Group if the job description held by that employee requires one of the above as of this date, then that employee shall not be eligible for the Education Incentive Plan.
17. BILINGUAL PAY
Employees who are proficient in a language other than English may be eligible for bilingual pay. The City Manager shall solely determine whether a language is in demand within the community. That language must be in demand within the community and members must pass a language proficiency test administered by the Personnel Officer. Upon demonstration of proficiency in a foreign language, the employee may receive bilingual pay as two and one-half percent (2.5%) of base pay. Should an employee participate in a language course/s, those costs are not reimbursed by the City.
The parties agree that to the extent permitted by law, that this pay is a special assignment pay – a type of pensionable compensation for both Classic and PEPRA members reported and paid on 26 pay periods.
18. USE OF KERR MCGEE CENTER FACILITIES
Each member, the member’s spouse, and dependent children shall be permitted to use the Sgt. John Pinney Aquatics Center and the Kerr McGee physical activity facility during regular operating hours at no charge, providing that said activity is not being directed by an instructor for which a special fee is being charged of others and no additional cost is incurred by CITY. The City also provides a 20% discount for City ran programs (Day Camp, Soccer, Basketball and Flag Football programs only).
19. EFFECTIVE DATE
This Agreement becomes effective July 1, 2026.
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2029
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20. REPEALS
All previous compensation plans for Confidential Group employees are hereby repealed.
THIS COMPENSATION PLAN WAS ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest, California at their regular meeting on July 15, 2026.
Travis Reed
Ridgecrest City Manager
EXHIBIT “A”
VACATION SCHEDULE
CONFIDENTIAL EMPLOYEES
NO. OF YEARS
EMPLOYED
RATE OF ACCRUAL
IN HOURS HOURS/YEAR MAXIMIM
ACCRUAL
0-4 3.08 80 160
5-9 4.62 120 240
10-14 6.16 160 320
15 -20 7.70 200 400
20+ 8.00 208 416
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2029
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EXHIBIT “B”
SALARY SCHEDULE
CONFIDENTIAL EMPLOYEES, effective July 1, 2026
POSITION TITLE GRADE Min Max STEP 1 STEP 2 STEP 3 STEP 4 STEP 5 STEP 6 Account Clerk 6468 3,414.27 4,357.55 19.6977 20.6826 21.7167 22.8025 23.9426 25.1397 Accountant 7559 5,598.67 7,145.48 32.3000 33.9150 35.6108 37.3913 39.2609 41.2239 Accounts Payable Technician 6568 3,930.09 5,015.92 22.6736 23.8073 24.9977 26.2476 27.5600 28.9380 Accounts Recievable Specialist 6555 4,769.44 6,087.15 27.5160 28.8918 30.3364 31.8532 33.4459 35.1182 Administrative Analyst I 6663 4,952.15 6,320.34 28.5701 29.9986 31.4985 33.0734 34.7271 36.4635 Administrative Analyst II 7680 5,798.69 7,400.78 33.4540 35.1267 36.8830 38.7272 40.6636 42.6968 Cultural Affairs Coordinator 6539 3,589.46 4,581.17 20.7084 21.7438 22.8310 23.9726 25.1712 26.4298 Human Resources Administrator 7680 5,798.69 7,400.78 33.4540 35.1267 36.8830 38.7272 40.6636 42.6968 Information Systems Specialist 7625 5,798.69 7,400.78 33.4540 35.1267 36.8830 38.7272 40.6636 42.6968 Information Systems Technician 6625 3,891.85 4,967.11 22.4530 23.5757 24.7545 25.9922 27.2918 28.6564 Junior Accountant 6555 4,769.44 6,087.15 27.5160 28.8918 30.3364 31.8532 33.4459 35.1182 Payroll Technician 7591 5,061.51 6,459.93 29.2010 30.6611 32.1942 33.8039 35.4941 37.2688 Police Clerk Supervisor 7804 4,952.15 6,320.34 28.5701 29.9986 31.4985 33.0734 34.7271 36.4635 Recreation Assistant 6170 3,405.34 4,346.16 19.6462 20.6285 21.6599 22.7429 23.8800 25.0740 Streets Foreman 7265 4,508.96 5,754.72 26.0132 27.3139 28.6796 30.1136 31.6193 33.2003 Transit Administrator/Dispatcher 7181 5,259.59 6,712.73 30.3438 31.8610 33.4541 35.1268 36.8831 38.7273 Transit Operations Supervisor 7130 5,798.69 7,400.78 33.4540 35.1267 36.8830 38.7272 40.6636 42.6968 Wastewater Foreman 7270 5,755.64 7,345.83 33.2056 34.8659 36.6092 38.4397 40.3617 42.3798 This Page Intentionally Left Blank
2026-2029
City of Ridgecrest
2026-2029
Mid Management
Compensation Plan
July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2029
City of Ridgecrest
Mid-Management Compensation Plan
This page intentionally left blank
POSITION LIST 3
SALARY SCHEDULE 3
LONGEVITY PAY 3
HEALTH BENEFITS 3
SCHEDULING 4
HOLIDAYS 5
ANNUAL VACATION TIME 5
SICK LEAVE 6
BEREAVEMENT LEAVE 7
WORKERS COMPENSATION 7
RETIREMENT 7
ANNUAL EVALUATION & PERFORMANCE PLAN 8
OUT OF CLASS TEMPORARY APPOINTMENT 8
UNIFORM ALLOWANCE 8
TUITION REIMBURSEMENT 9
EDUCATION INCENTIVE PAY 9
USE OF KERR MCGEE FACILITIES 10
EFFECTIVE DATE 10
REPEALS 10
EXHIBIT "A" 11
EXHIBIT "B" 11
TABLE OF CONTENTS
City of Ridgecrest
Mid-Management Compensation Plan
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MID-MANAGEMENT PLAN
July 1, 2021 – June 30, 2022
1. Position List
The Mid-Management employees consist of the follow positions:
Accounting Supervisor Information Technology Manager
Administrative Analyst III Parks Maintenance Supervisor Assistant Finance Director Police Captain
Chief Plant Operator Public Works Supervisor
City Clerk Senior Engineer
City Planner Transit Services Coordinator
Comm & Econ Development Manager
2. SALARY SCHEDULE
Mid-Management employees shall be compensated in accordance with the published Salary Schedule. Available to view on the city’s website also attached as Exhibit “B”.
3. LONGEVITY PAY
Mid-Management employees who have completed twenty (20) years of service with the City shall receive additional pensionable compensation equal to two and one-half percent (2.5%) of base pay. This pensionable compensation is available for both classic and PEPRA members reported and paid on 26 pay periods. Employees shall continue to receive this compensation for as long as they remain in a position represented by this compensation agreement, until separation from service or transfer to a position not represented by this agreement.
4. HEALTH BENEFITS
Effective January 1, 2025, the City will contribute to the cafeteria program for each employee enrolled in the City sponsored CalPERS Health Plan:
Table #1
Tier 1 Tier 2 Tier 3 Tier 4
Outside
Medical Emp. Emp. + 1 Emp. + 2+
Monthly $400 $890 $1473.16 $1881.40
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The employee, through authorized payroll deduction, shall contribute any additional required premium. Employees hired after July 1, 2021, who elect not to enroll in the city sponsored CalPERS Health Plan, shall receive a cash out of $400 per month upon evidence semiannually of enrollment in a major medical insurance plan.
Employees hired before July 1, 2021, who elect not to enroll in the City sponsored CalPERS Health Plan, shall receive a cash out pursuant to Table #2 per month upon evidence semiannually of enrollment in a major medical group insurance plan.
Table #2
Tier 1 Tier 2
Outside Med Outside Med w/City Dental
Monthly $450 $575
Effective January 1, 2027 the Council agrees to increase the monthly cafeteria plan contribution by up to Two Hundred Dollars ($200.00) per month, not to exceed the amount of any increase in the out-of-pocket premium cost for employee-only (Tier 2) PERS Gold (or equivalent if name change) plan medical insurance coverage.
By way of example, if the employee-only premium increases by $200.00 above the current cafeteria contribution amount, the Council contribution shall increase by the amount of that overage. Any premium costs exceeding the Council’s contribution increase shall remain the responsibility of the employee.
Example: there is an approximate Sixty Dollar ($60.00) difference between the cafeteria contribution and the employee-only insurance premium. Should the employee-only premium increase by an additional Eighty Dollars ($80.00), the employee out-of-pocket cost would total approximately One Hundred Forty Dollars ($140.00). In such event, the cafeteria contribution would be increased by One Hundred Forty Dollars ($140.00) per month and would apply equally to all participating employees, including those enrolled in single, employee plus one, and family coverage plans.
5. SCHEDULING
The Department Head, with the approval of the City Manager, retains the right to make assignments and scheduling decisions, including the right to change the starting and ending times of employees’ shifts, based upon the needs of the department and the community. As such, the Department Head will be responsible for all decisions concerning staffing levels and the specific hours of individual shifts as well as special assignments.
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6. HOLIDAYS
Mid-Management will observe the following holidays. However, if a holiday falls on a Friday, the holiday will be observed the preceding regular scheduled workday. The Liberal City Holiday after Thanksgiving and Christmas may be taken as a Liberal Holiday the week of or the week immediately following the actual Holiday Date.
New Year’s Day
Martin Luther King Jr. Day
President’s Day
Memorial Day
Independence Day
Labor Day
Veteran’s Day
Thanksgiving Day
Liberal City Holiday (the day after Thanksgiving)
Christmas Day
Liberal City Holiday (the day after Christmas)
24 Floating Holiday Hours
Any day designated by the City as an Administrative Action Holiday The City of Ridgecrest will provide all full-time employees floating holidays that are accrued based on hours paid and can be used when employees have a need to be off work for any reason. A new full time employee receives a one-time advance of 24 hours of floating holiday. In addition, employees will accrue floating holiday hours at the rate of.923 hour per pay period or 24 hours per year.
Employees may carry over unused FLOATING HOLIDAYS from one fiscal year to the next with a maximum of 48 hours. At any one time employees can only have a maximum of 48 hours in the bank and accrual will start again once their accrued balance drops below the cap.
All FLOATING HOLIDAYS must be scheduled in advance and approved by the supervisor except in cases of sudden illness or emergency. Floating holiday hours may be used in combination with other accrued leave hours such vacation leave, sick leave, and comp time order to get a full day’s worth of paid time off. Any employees who separate from the City service shall receive pay for all unused accrued floating holiday.
7. ANNUAL VACATION LEAVE
The purpose of annual vacation leave is to enable each eligible employee annually to return to work mentally and physically refreshed. All employees covered by this agreement shall be entitled to take annual vacation leave with pay, except employees who have served the City less than six months, or who are not eligible.
Commencing with the successful completion of six months of service, the employee may take annual vacation leave up to the amount accumulated when the leave is initiated. Each eligible employee shall accrue annual vacation at the rate indicated in Exhibit “A” attached, earning a maximum of 208 hours per year.
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No employee shall accrue more than twice his/her annual vacation leave accrual rate; at which time accrual shall cease until unused vacation accrual is below the maximum accrual.
Each member may annually, at the sole discretion of the member, convert the cash value of no more than 18 hours of available vacation directly into the employee’s 457b plan.
Conversion requests shall be submitted by the member to the Finance Director via the employee’s Department Head no later than June 1 each year. Payments will occur after the deadline at a time determined by the Finance Director.
Any person who separates from City service shall receive pay for all unused, accrued vacation.
8. SICK LEAVE
Employees shall be able to accumulate all earned sick leave for the purpose of actual physical illness or disability.
Employees who have less than five years of service shall not be entitled to cash out of his/her sick leave accrual at the time of termination of employment by resignation or removal from City service. Employees who have five years or more of service, depending on his/her years of service, shall be entitled to accumulate for conversion purposes, between 320 to 960 hours, and the table below will show the percentage he/she is entitled to cash out at the time of termination of employment by resignation or removal from City service.
Mid-Management Accumulated Sick Leave Cash Out Table
Years of Service Maximum Hours Cash Out Value
Less than 5 none none
5 + less than 10 320 hours 75%
10 + less than 15 640 hours 75%
15 + less than 20 960 hours 75%
20 + 960 hours 100%
If an employee is absent on sick leave, he/she shall notify his/her immediate supervisor or the personnel officer prior to the time set for beginning his/her daily duties. The employee may be required to file a physician’s certificate with his/her Department Head.
Accrued sick leave may be taken in case of an employee’s presence being required elsewhere because of sickness, disability or death of a members of his/her immediate family. The City agrees to follow applicable laws pertaining to the use of sick leave for family medical leave.
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An employee receiving temporary disability payments under the Worker’s Compensation Laws may use accumulated sick leave in order to continue to maintain his/her regular income.
9. BEREAVEMENT LEAVE
All employees who have been employed by the City for at least 30 days are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave in the event of the death of a “family member”. For the purpose of this section, “family member” shall include the spouse or registered domestic partner, child (including stepchildren), parents (including step-parents and parents-in-law), siblings (including step-siblings and siblings-in-law), grandparents (including grand parents-in-law), and other cohabitants living full-time in the same household as the member acting as a family unit.
An employee may use vacation, personal leave, accrued and available sick leave, or compensatory time off in order to provide for their compensation during any bereavement leave in excess of five (5) days.
10. WORKERS COMPENSATION
The City shall make a Mid-Management employee whole for lost wages incurred during the workers' compensation waiting period, not to exceed the first three (3) scheduled workdays per accepted claim
11. RETIREMENT
The City agrees to provide all eligible members who are considered “classic members” based on PEPRA rules with a retirement plan with the benefit factor of 2.7% at 55 thru CalPERS. For members who fall under the “new member” classification of PEPRA, the City agrees to provide them with a retirement plan with the benefit factor of 2% at 62.
The members of this group through payroll deduction agree to pay the required employee contribution rates.
The city will pay the actuarially determined minimum employer contribution rates for both member classifications.
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12. ANNUAL EVALUATIONS & PERFORMANCE PLANS
In conjunction with the annual evaluating process, the supervisor and employee will share responsibility to create a Performance Plan. This Plan is a written document to define several goals for the employee to work on during the prospective year. The Plan has the flexibility to be changed when circumstance arise that may affect the ability of the employee to accomplish the stated goals, but any changes shall be approved by the Department Head after consultation with the employee and supervisor. The employee’s success with the performance Plan will be one element of consideration by the supervisor when completing the annual evaluation.
The City Manager, upon the recommendation of a Department Head, may advance an employee to the next highest step within the range of the employee’s class as a reward for outstanding performance but only after the employee has served a minimum of three months in the step from which the employee is to be advanced. No salary advancement shall be made so as to exceed the maximum step established in the compensation schedule for the class to which the employee’s position is allocated.
13. OUT OF CLASS TEMPORARY APPOINTMENT
The Department Head, with approval of the City Manager, retains the right to temporarily assign an employee to an acting position within the department.
The City reserves the right, within its sole discretion, to assign employees within this unit to work outside of their regular classification. The employee shall meet all eligibility requirements for the position. An employee who has been temporarily appointed to an out of class temporary position in a higher classification for a period of over forty (40) consecutive hours shall be compensated, beginning at the 1st hour, with a 5% pay increase, in recognition of extra duties performed. This pensionable compensation is available for both classic and PEPRA members reported and paid on 26 pay periods.
14. UNIFORM ALLOWANCE
Designated Employees
The City shall provide uniforms, or uniform service, to each employee required by the City to be “uniformed.” Employees designated as “uniformed” are those required to wear uniforms as a condition of employment. In addition, The City will pay the cost for cleaning uniforms through the designated service.
PERS Reporting shall be as follows: The City shall report to PERS the cost of uniforms, for employees required by the City to be uniformed. The cost of uniforms for reporting purposes shall be $10.00 of compensation earnable per pay period.
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15. TUITION REIMBURSEMENT
The purpose is to encourage employees to pursue courses of study or technical training that will enable them to become more proficient in their jobs.
Eligibility – All permanent, full-time employees.
Applicability
(a) The course or training must be directly applicable to the member’s current job classification or related to a position to which the member might reasonably aspire within CITY’s organizational structure, including management positions, as determined by the City Manager. (b) All coursework must be completed during non-working hours at no additional cost to CITY.
Authorization
(a) An eligible member participating in the reimbursement program must submit a request and receive the corresponding approval for tuition/fee reimbursement from the City Manager via the member’s Department Head for a course or training meeting the above criteria, prior to registering for the course or training. (b) All degree coursework must be from an educational institution currently accredited by an accrediting organization recognized by the secretary of the U.S. Department of Education.
(c) If approved by the City Manager, and upon successful completion of the course of study with a satisfactory or better grade (e.g. letter grade of C or better on a scale of A-F, grade of pass on a scale of pass-fail), the member will be reimbursed for 100% of tuition/fee and/or books up to the maximum authorized amount.
(d) The member is responsible for the cost of all books, tuition, fees, and related charges in excess of the reimbursement limit.
The maximum annual reimbursement per member for approved coursework shall be $1,250 for coursework in an Associate Degree program, $1,500 for a Bachelors degree program or a Masters Degree program and may be allocated to the specific cost areas listed in the tuition reimbursement request approved by the City Manager and as budget is available.
16. EDUCATION INCENTIVE PAY
Five percent (5%) of salary for any member acquiring a relevant B.S., B.A., M.S., M.A. (approved by Department Head and City Manager if beneficial to City of Ridgecrest
Mid-Management Compensation Plan
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the City and not required for position) Acquiring the degree must be at no cost to the City other than participation in the tuition reimbursement program. This pensionable compensation is available for both classic and PEPRA members reported and paid on 26 pay periods.
17. USE OF KERR MCGEE CENTER FACILITIES
Each member, the member’s spouse, and dependent children shall be permitted to use the Sgt. John Pinney Aquatics Center and the Kerr McGee physical activity facility during regular operating hours at no charge, providing that said activity is not being directed by an instructor for which a special fee is being charged of others and no additional cost is incurred by CITY. The City also provides a 20% discount for City ran programs (Day Camp, Soccer, Basketball and Flag Football programs only).
18. EFFECTIVE DATE
This Agreement becomes effective July 1, 2026.
19. REPEALS
All previous compensation plans for Mid–Management employees are hereby repealed.
THIS AMENDED COMPENSATION PLAN WAS ADOPTED by the City
Council of the City of Ridgecrest, California at their regular meeting on July 15 , 2026.
Travis Reed
City Manager
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Mid-Management Compensation Plan
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EXHIBIT “A”
VACATION SCHEDULE
MID MANAGEMENT EMPLOYEES
NO. OF YEARS
EMPLOYED
RATE OF ACCRUAL IN
HOURS PER PAY PERIOD HOURS/YEAR
MAXIMUM
ACCRUAL
0-4 3.08 80 160
5-9 4.62 120 240
10-14 6.16 160 320
15-19 7.70 200 400
20+ 8.00 208 416
EXHIBIT “B”
Salary Schedule Mid-Management effective July 1, 2026
POSITION TITLE GRADE Min Max STEP 1 STEP 2 STEP 3 STEP 4 STEP 5 STEP 6 Accounting Supervisor 8598 6,502.39 8,298.91 37.5138 39.3895 41.3590 43.4270 45.5984 47.8783 Administrative Analyst III 8653 7,727.01 9,861.83 44.5789 46.8078 49.1482 51.6056 54.1859 56.8952 Assistant Finance Director 8636 7,895.18 10,076.47 45.5491 47.8266 50.2179 52.7288 55.3652 58.1335 Chief Plant Operator 8593 7,537.97 9,620.57 43.4883 45.6627 47.9458 50.3431 52.8603 55.5033 City Clerk 8636 7,895.18 10,076.47 45.5491 47.8266 50.2179 52.7288 55.3652 58.1335 City Planner 8653 7,727.01 9,861.83 44.5789 46.8078 49.1482 51.6056 54.1859 56.8952 Comm & Econ Development Manager 8636 8,739.95 11,154.64 50.4228 52.9439 55.5911 58.3707 61.2892 64.3537 Information Technology Manager 8653 7,727.01 9,861.83 44.5789 46.8078 49.1482 51.6056 54.1859 56.8952 Parks Maintenance Supervisor 8598 6,502.39 8,298.91 37.5138 39.3895 41.3590 43.4270 45.5984 47.8783 Police Captain 8877 10,843.23 13,839.04 62.5571 65.6850 68.9693 72.4178 76.0387 79.8406 Public Works Supervisor 8598 6,502.39 8,298.91 37.5138 39.3895 41.3590 43.4270 45.5984 47.8783 Senior Engineer 8667 7,595.62 9,694.13 43.8209 46.0119 48.3125 50.7281 53.2645 55.9277 Transit Services Coordinator 8667 7,595.62 9,694.13 43.8209 46.0119 48.3125 50.7281 53.2645 55.9277 2026-2029
City of Ridgecrest
2026-2029
Management Compensation
Plan
July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2029
POSITION LIST 2
SALARY SCHEDULE 2
HEALTH BENEFITS 2
SCHEDULING 3
HOLIDAYS 4
ANNUAL VACATION TIME 4
SICK LEAVE 5
BEREAVEMENT LEAVE 5
WORKERS COMPENSATION 6
RETIREMENT 6
ANNUAL EVALUATION 6
USE OF KERR MCGEE FACILITIES 6
EFFECTIVE DATE 7
EXHIBIT “A” SALARY SCHEDULE 8
TABLE OF CONTENTS
City of Ridgecrest
Management Compensation Plan
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MANAGEMENT PLAN
July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2029
Each employee in a Management classification serves under an individual employment agreement with the City. The terms and conditions of employment for each Management employee are set forth in that individual contract and are supplemented by this Management Compensation Plan. In the event of any conflict between an individual employment agreement and this Plan, the terms of the individual employment agreement shall prevail.
1. Position List
The Management employees consist of the follow positions:
City Manager Chief of Police
Deputy City Manager Director of Finance
Director of Park and Recreation Director of Public Works Director of Community Development
2. SALARY SCHEDULE
Each management employee has their own employment contract. Contracts are available to view on the city’s website. employees shall be compensated in accordance with the published Salary Schedule. Available to view on the city’s website. Also attached as Exhibit “A”.
3. HEALTH BENEFITS
Effective January 1, 2025, the City will contribute to the cafeteria program for each employee enrolled in the City sponsored CalPERS Health Plan:
Table #1
Tier 1 Tier 2 Tier 3 Tier 4
Outside
Medical Emp. Emp. + 1 Emp. + 2+
Monthly $400 $890 $1473.16 $1881.40
The employee, through authorized payroll deduction, shall contribute any additional required premium. Employees hired after July 1, 2021, who elect not to enroll in the city sponsored CalPERS Health Plan, shall receive a cash out of $400 per month upon evidence semiannually of enrollment in a major medical insurance plan.
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Employees hired before July 1, 2021, who elect not to enroll in the City sponsored CalPERS Health Plan, shall receive a cash out pursuant to Table #2 per month upon evidence semiannually of enrollment in a major medical group insurance plan.
Table #2
Tier 1 Tier 2
Outside Med Outside Med w/City Dental
Monthly $450 $575
Effective January 1, the Council agrees to increase the monthly cafeteria plan contribution by up to Two Hundred Dollars ($200.00) per month, not to exceed the amount of any increase in the out-of-pocket premium cost for employee-only (Tier 2) medical insurance coverage. Effective January 1, 2027 the Council agrees to increase the monthly cafeteria plan contribution by up to Two Hundred Dollars ($200.00) per month, not to exceed the amount of any increase in the out-of-pocket premium cost for employee-only (Tier 2) PERS Gold (or equivalent if name change) plan medical insurance coverage.
By way of example, if the employee-only premium increases by $200.00 above the current cafeteria contribution amount, the Council contribution shall increase by the amount of that overage. Any premium costs exceeding the Council’s contribution increase shall remain the responsibility of the employee.
Example: there is an approximate Sixty Dollar ($60.00) difference between the cafeteria contribution and the employee-only insurance premium. Should the employee-only premium increase by an additional Eighty Dollars ($80.00), the employee out-of-pocket cost would total approximately One Hundred Forty Dollars ($140.00). In such event, the cafeteria contribution would be increased by One Hundred Forty Dollars ($140.00) per month and would apply equally to all participating employees, including those enrolled in single, employee plus one, and family coverage plans.
4. SCHEDULING
The City Manager retains the right to make assignments and scheduling decisions, including the right to change the starting and ending times of employees’ shifts, based upon the needs of the department and the community.
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5. HOLIDAYS
Management will observe the following holidays. However, if a holiday falls on a Friday, the holiday will be observed the preceding regular scheduled workday. The Liberal City Holiday after Thanksgiving and Christmas may be taken as a Liberal Holiday the week of or the week immediately following the actual Holiday Date.
New Year’s Day
Martin Luther King Jr. Day
President’s Day
Memorial Day
Independence Day
Labor Day
Veteran’s Day
Thanksgiving Day
Liberal City Holiday (the day after Thanksgiving)
Christmas Day
Liberal City Holiday (the day after Christmas)
24 Floating Holiday Hours
Any day designated by the City as an Administrative Action Holiday The City of Ridgecrest will provide all full-time employees floating holidays that are accrued based on hours paid and can be used when employees have a need to be off work for any reason. A new full-time employee receives a one-time advance of 24 hours of floating holiday. In addition, employees will accrue floating holiday hours at the rate of 0.923 hour per pay period or 24 hours per year.
Employees may carry over unused FLOATING HOLIDAYS from one fiscal year to the next with a maximum of 48 hours. At any one-time employees can only have a maximum of 48 hours in the bank and accrual will start again once their accrued balance drops below the cap.
All FLOATING HOLIDAYS must be scheduled in advance and approved by the supervisor except in cases of sudden illness or emergency. Floating holiday hours may be used in combination with other accrued leave hours such vacation leave, sick leave, comp time and admin leave in order to get a full day’s worth of paid time off. Any employees who separate from the City service shall receive pay for all unused accrued floating holiday.
6. ANNUAL VACATION LEAVE
The purpose of annual vacation leave is to enable each eligible employee annually to return to work mentally and physically refreshed. All employees covered by this agreement shall be entitled to take annual vacation leave with pay.
The employee may take annual vacation leave up to the amount accumulated when the leave is initiated. Each eligible employee shall accrue annual vacation at the rate indicated in their individual contracts.
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No employee shall accrue more than twice his/her annual vacation leave accrual rate; at which time accrual shall cease until unused vacation accrual is below the maximum accrual.
Any person who separates from City service shall receive pay for all unused, accrued vacation.
7. SICK LEAVE
Employees shall earn 104 hours of sick leave per year at a rate of 4 hours per pay period and shall be able to accumulate all earned sick leave for the purpose of actual physical illness or disability.
Employees shall be entitled to cash out accrued sick leave at the time of termination of employment by resignation or removal from City service based on individual contract.
Accrued sick leave may be taken in case of an employee’s presence being required elsewhere because of sickness, disability or death of a members of his/her immediate family. The City agrees to follow applicable laws pertaining to the use of sick leave for family medical leave.
An employee receiving temporary disability payments under the Worker’s Compensation Laws may use accumulated sick leave in order to continue to maintain his/her regular income.
8. BEREAVEMENT LEAVE
All employees who have been employed by the City for at least 30 days are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave in the event of the death of a “family member”. For the purpose of this section, “family member” shall include the spouse or registered domestic partner, child (including stepchildren), parents (including step-parents and parents-in-law), siblings (including step-siblings and siblings-in-law), grandparents (including grand parents-in-law), and other cohabitants living full-time in the same household as the member acting as a family unit.
An employee may use vacation, personal leave, accrued and available sick leave, or compensatory time off in order to provide for their compensation during any bereavement leave in excess of five (5) days.
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Management Compensation Plan
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9. WORKERS COMPENSATION
In the event of an industrial injury to a Management member, the City will make employee whole for lost wages not paid by worker’s compensation up to the first three days per accepted claim.
10. RETIREMENT
The City agrees to provide all eligible members who are considered “classic members” based on PEPRA rules with a retirement plan with the benefit factor of 2.7% at 55 thru CalPERS. For members who fall under the “new member” classification of PEPRA, the City agrees to provide them with a retirement plan with the benefit factor of 2% at 62.
The members of this group thru payroll deduction agree to pay the required employee contribution rates.
The city will pay the actuarially determined minimum employer contribution rates for both member classifications.
11. ANNUAL EVALUATIONS
The City Manager, may advance an employee to the next highest step within the range of the employee’s class as a reward for outstanding performance but only after the employee has served a minimum of three months in the step from which the employee is to be advanced. No salary advancement shall be made so as to exceed the maximum step established in the compensation schedule for the class to which the employee’s position is allocated.
12. USE OF KERR MCGEE CENTER FACILITIES
Each member, the member’s spouse, and dependent children shall be permitted to use the Sgt. John Pinney Aquatics Center and the Kerr McGee physical activity facility during regular operating hours at no charge, providing that said activity is not being directed by an instructor for which a special fee is being charged of others and no additional cost is incurred by CITY. The City also provides a 20% discount for City ran programs (Day Camp, Soccer, Basketball and Flag Football programs only).
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Management Compensation Plan
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13. EFFECTIVE DATE
This Agreement becomes effective upon adoption by the City Council.
THIS AMENDED COMPENSATION PLAN WAS ADOPTED by the City
Council of the City of Ridgecrest, California at their regular meeting on July 15, 2026.
Travis Reed
City Manager
City of Ridgecrest
Management Compensation Plan
8 | P a g e
EXHIBIT “A”
SALARY SCHEDULE
MANAGEMENT EMPLOYEES, effective July 1, 2026
POSITION TITLE GRADE Min Max STEP 1 STEP 2 STEP 3 STEP 4 STEP 5 STEP 6 Chief of Police 9550 13,129.46 16,756.86 75.7469 79.5342 83.5109 87.6864 92.0707 96.6742 City Manager 9990 13,866.67 19,750.00 80.0000 113.9423
Deputy City Manager 9500 11,221.76 14,322.10 64.7409 67.9779 71.3768 74.9456 78.6929 82.6275 Deputy City Manager/PW Dir 9980 13,179.78 16,821.13 76.0372 79.8391 83.8311 88.0227 92.4238 97.0450 Director of Community Dev 9500 11,221.76 14,322.10 64.7409 67.9779 71.3768 74.9456 78.6929 82.6275 Director of Finance 9500 11,221.76 14,322.10 64.7409 67.9779 71.3768 74.9456 78.6929 82.6275 Director of Parks and Recreation 9653 8,912.83 11,375.29 51.4202 53.9912 56.6908 59.5253 62.5016 65.6267 Director of Public Works 9500 11,221.76 14,322.10 64.7409 67.9779 71.3768 74.9456 78.6929 82.6275 This Page Intentionally Left Blank
2026-2029
City of Ridgecrest
Part-time Employee Group
Compensation Plan July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2029
City of Ridgecrest
Part-time Employee Group Compensation Plan
2026-
2029
City of Ridgecrest
Part-time Employee Group Compensation Plan
2026-
2029
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION SECTION TITLE PAGE
1 BASIC COMPENSATION PLAN AND DEFINITIONS 1
2 SALARY AND WAGE SCHEDULES 1
3 PERFORMANCE EVALUATIONS 1
4 SICK LEAVE 2
5 BEREAVEMENT LEAVE 2
6 WORKERS COMPENSATION 3
7 RETIREMENT 3
8 USE OF KERR MCGEE CENTER FACILITY 4
9 EFFECTIVE DATE 4
EXHIBIT “A” SALARY SCHEDULE 5
City of Ridgecrest
Part-time Employee Group Compensation Plan
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2029
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PART-TIME PLAN
July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2029
1. SECTION 1. BASIC COMPENSATION PLAN AND DEFINITIONS.
A basic compensation plan (plan) is established for Part-Time and Limited Duration Employees of the City of Ridgecrest who are now employed or will in the future be employed in any part-time, seasonal or temporary positions. Nothing contained herein shall guarantee to any employee a specified number of hours per day or days per week or weeks per month or months per year of work.
Whenever the term "part-time" is used in this plan, it shall be understood to include an employee regularly scheduled to work less than the full-time equivalent of forty (40) hours in a week or less than two thousand eighty (2,080) hours in a fiscal year.
Whenever the term "seasonal" is used in this plan, it shall be understood to include an employee who is appointed to a temporary position which may offer recurring periodic employment, such as every summer, but that does not exceed one thousand (1,000) hours in a fiscal year.
Whenever the term "temporary" is used in this plan, it shall be understood to include an employee who is appointed to a position for a limited duration not to exceed one thousand (1,000) hours in a fiscal year.
Whenever the term "at-will" is used in this Plan, it shall be understood to include all part- time employees scheduled to work less then forty (40) hours per week, seasonal, and limited duration employees. The City reserves the right to terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause, for all employees covered by this plan.
When the term "non-benefited" is used in this Plan, it shall be understood to include the parttime, seasonal and/or temporary employees working less than one thousand (1,000) hours in a fiscal year. Non-Benefited employees shall not be entitled to receive any fringe benefits provided for in any plan of the City, unless otherwise provided by Federal and/or State law.
2. SECTION 2. SALARY AND WAGE SCHEDULES.
Salaries effective July 1, 2026 for employees covered by this Plan are listed in Exhibit A and on the City website.
3. SECTION 3. PERFORMANCE EVALUATIONS.
The City shall maintain an employee performance rating system designed to give a fair evaluation of the quantity and quality of work performed by an employee.
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2029
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a. Performance evaluation reports shall be prepared and recorded in the employee's personnel file for all part-time, temporary, and seasonal employees as follows:
1) For part-time employees, at or near the completion of two thousand eighty (2,080) hours.
2) For seasonal employees, at the end of the season and upon the completion of two thousand eighty (2,080) hours.
B. Prior to the performance evaluation report becoming part of the employee's personnel file, the supervisor and the employee must review the evaluation.
C. An employee shall be considered for advancement through the salary range based on continuous, meritorious, and efficient service, continued improvement by the employee in the effective performance of the duties of the position, and the completion of two thousand eighty (2,080) hours of service in the classification.
4. SECTION 4. SICK LEAVE
Effective each July 1, the City shall frontload paid sick leave for eligible part-time employees in accordance with California law. Eligible part-time employees shall receive 40 (forty) hours of paid sick leave on July 1 of each fiscal year.
Frontloaded paid sick leave may be used in accordance with the California Healthy Workplaces, Healthy Families Act and applicable Employer policies. Employees may begin using frontloaded sick leave on the 90th day of employment. Unused frontloaded sick leave shall not carry over from one fiscal year to the next. The City reserves the right to modify the annual frontload amount as necessary to remain compliant with California law. Sick leave shall be used for illness or disability issues.
SECTION 5. BEREAVEMENT LEAVE.
All employees who have been employed by the City for at least 30 days are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave in the event of the death of a “family member”. For the purpose of this section, “family member” shall include the spouse or registered domestic partner, child (including step-children), parents (including step-parents and parents-in-law), siblings (including step-siblings and siblings-in-law), grandparents (including grand parents-in-law), and other cohabitants living full-time in the same household as the member acting as a family unit.
City of Ridgecrest
Part-time Employee Group Compensation Plan
2026-
2029
3 | P a g e
An employee may use vacation, personal leave, accrued and available sick leave, or compensatory time off in order to provide for their compensation during any bereavement leave in excess of five (5) days.
SECTION 6. WORKERS' COMPENSATION
Employees who incur a work-related injury or illness will be eligible to receive Workers' Compensation benefits according to the State of California's Division of Workers' Compensation (DWC) laws, regulations, and benefits provided pursuant to this plan. 1) Temporary Disability. An employee shall be granted Temporary Disability in accordance with the current State Workers' Compensation laws and regulations. 2) Claims Pending Compensation Determination. When a claim is pending a compensability decision while in a delayed or denied status, and the employee is losing time off from work, the employee can use their own sick leave. If the claim is accepted, the employee's accruals will be credited based on the dates that meet the Temporary Disability criteria under the State of California's Division of Workers' Compensation.
3) Physician Pre-Designation. Before a work-related injury, an employee may elect to pre- designate a qualified medical provider if done in accordance with the State of California's Division of Workers' Compensation laws and regulations.
5. SECTION 7. RETIREMENT.
A. NON-BENEFITED EMPLOYEES.
b. All non-benefited employees not covered by CalPERS shall participate in a defined contribution retirement plan in lieu of Social Security. c. For employees hired before July 1, 2026, the City shall contribute three and seventy-five hundredths’ percent (3.75%) of the employee's eligible earnings to the retirement plan, and the employee shall contribute three and seventy-five hundredths’ percent (3.75%) of their eligible earnings. d. For employees hired or rehired on or after July 1, 2026, the City shall contribute zero percent (0%) of the employee's eligible earnings to the retirement plan, and the employee shall contribute seven and one-half percent (7.50%) of their eligible earnings.
B. BENEFITED EMPLOYEES.
a. The City agrees to provide all eligible members who are considered “classic members” based on PEPRA rules with a retirement plan with the benefit factor of 2.7% at 55 thru CalPERS. For members who fall under the “new City of Ridgecrest
Part-time Employee Group Compensation Plan
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2029
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member” classification of PEPRA, the City agrees to provide them with a retirement plan with the benefit factor of 2% at 62.
b. The members of this group thru payroll deduction agree to pay the required employee contribution rates.
c. City will pay the actuarially determined minimum employer contribution rates for both member classifications.
d. CALPERS RETIRED ANNUITANTS. Pursuant to the Public Employees' Pension Reform Act of 2013 (PEPRA), the City is prohibited from providing a CalPERS retired annuitant with any benefit, incentive, compensation in lieu of benefits, or other form of compensation in addition to the hourly pay rate.
Accordingly, the City will not enroll retired annuitants in the IRS Section 457 OBRA deferred compensation plan. Further, since participation in a deferred compensation plan is considered a benefit, retired annuitants are not permitted to voluntarily enroll in any of the City's other Section 457 deferred compensation plans.
C. SECTION 8. USE OF KERR MCGEE CENTER FACILITIES
Each member, the member’s spouse, and dependent children shall be permitted to use the Sgt.
John Pinney Aquatics Center and the Kerr McGee physical activity facility during regular operating hours at no charge, providing that said activity is not being directed by an instructor for which a special fee is being charged of others and no additional cost is incurred by CITY. The City also provides a 20% discount for City ran programs (Day Camp, Soccer, Basketball and Flag Football programs only).
D. SECTION 9. EFFECTIVE DATE
This plan shall become effective on July 1, 2026.
THIS COMPENSATION PLAN WAS ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest, California at their regular meeting on July 15, 2026.
Travis Reed
Ridgecrest City Manager
City of Ridgecrest
Part-time Employee Group Compensation Plan
2026-
2029
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EXHIBIT “A”
SALARY SCHEDULE
PART-TIME EMPLOYEES effective July 1, 2026
POSITION TITLE GRADE STEP 1 STEP 2 STEP 3 STEP 4 STEP 5 STEP 6 P/T Administrative Analyst I 1063 28.5701 29.9986 31.4985 33.0734 34.7271 36.4635 P/T Background Investigator 1040 24.0632 25.2664 26.5297 27.8562 29.2490 30.7115 P/T Community Development Clerk 1037 21.3161 22.3819 23.5010 24.6761 25.9099 27.2054 P/T Kennel Attendant 1030 18.8788 19.8227 20.8138 21.8545 22.9472 24.0946 P/T PACT Coordinator 1035 18.2486 19.1610 20.1191 21.1251 22.1814 23.2905 P/T Police Dispatch 1038 23.8666 25.0599 26.3129 27.6285 29.0099 30.4604 Recreation Leader I 1020 16.9000 17.7450 18.6323 19.5639 20.5421 21.5692 Recreation Leader II 1021 17.0888 17.9432 18.8404 19.7824 20.7715 21.8101 Recreation Leader III 1022 17.6400 18.5220 19.4481 20.4205 21.4415 22.5136 11 This Page Intentionally Left Blank
Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority
STAFF REPORT
Submitted by: Ricca Charlon, City Clerk Action Date: July 15, 2026 SUBJECT: A Resolution Of The City Council Of The City Of Ridgecrest To Cooperate With The County Of Kern, Electing To Participate In The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) And Home Investment Partnership Programs For Fiscal Years 2027, 2028, And 2029 And Authorizing The City Manager To Sign The Cooperative Agreement PRESENTED BY: Travis Reed, City Manager
SUMMARY:
Staff is presenting to the City Council the Cooperative Agreement with the County of Kern Planning and Community Development Department, electing to continue participation in the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and Home Investment Partnership Programs for Fiscal Years 2027 through 2029.
The Cooperation Agreement and Resolution are required as part of the Urban County Qualifications. The Cooperation Agreement along with a Resolution must be filed with the County prior to July 17, 2026 to meet these critical deadlines for this essential funding. A copy of the Cooperation Agreement and Resolution are attached for your consideration.
CDBG funding is directly related in assisting and undertaking, essential community projects for renewal to provide assistance in our low to moderate income housing areas within the community.
The Resolution authorizes the City Manager to execute the required Agreement.
FISCAL IMPACT: None
ACTION REQUESTED: Adopt A Resolution Of The City Council Of The City Of Ridgecrest To Cooperate With The County Of Kern, Electing To Participate In The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) And Home Investment Partnership Programs For Fiscal Years 2027-2029 And Authorizing The City Manager To Sign The Cooperative Agreement CITY MANAGER / EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR RECOMMENDATION:
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RESOLUTION NO 26 - Xx
A RESOLUTION OF THE RIDGECREST CITY COUNCIL TO COOPERATE WITH THE
COUNTY OF KERN, ELECTING TO PARTICIPATE IN THE COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) AND HOME INVESTMENT PARTNERSHIP PROGRAMS FOR FISCAL YEARS 2027-2029 AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY
MANAGER TO SIGN THE COOPERATIVE AGREEMENT
WHEREAS, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has identified this City as authorized to be included in the County of Kern’s Community Development Block Grant program entitlement pursuant to Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended, (hereinafter the “Act”); and,
WHEREAS, HUD has notified the County of Kern that it is a participant in the HOME Investment Partnerships program as defined in Title II of the Cranston-Gonzales National Affordable Housing Act of 1990, as amended; and,
WHEREAS, HUD has notified the County of Kern that it is a participant in the Emergency Solutions Grants program; and,
WHEREAS, the Act requires the execution of a Cooperation Agreement between this City and the County of Kern; and,
WHEREAS, such Agreement allows this City’s population to be included with the County of Kern’s in determining a basic annual Community Development Block Grant, HOME Investment Partnerships program, and Emergency Solutions Grants program grant amounts; and, WHEREAS, it is the intention of this City to enter into such an Agreement with the County of Kern to cooperate in undertaking, or assist in undertaking, essential community renewal and lower income housing assistance activities in the incorporated area of this City.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest:
1. Elects to participate in the Community Development Block Grant, HOME Investment Partnerships programs, and Emergency Solutions Grants programs for the three program years commencing with 2026-2027 and continuing through 2028-2029 in accordance with the regulations by the Act;
2. Directs the City Manager to sign the required Agreements; and
3. Authorizes the City Manager from this City to execute and/or perform all other appropriate acts necessary to accomplish the purpose of the Resolution.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 15th day of July 2026 by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
_______
Travis Endicott, Mayor
ATTEST:
Ricca Charlon, CMC
City Clerk
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1 COOPERATION AGREEMENT FOR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
This Agreement, made and entered into on ____________________________by and between the COUNTY OF KERN, a political subdivision of the State of California (hereinafter “COUNTY”) and the CITY OF RIDGECREST, a municipal corporation located within Kern County (hereinafter “CITY”), RECITALS:
WHEREAS, the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (hereinafter “HUD”) has notified the COUNTY that it is considered to have the required qualifications (determination of essential powers) to participate in the Community Development Block Grant Entitlement (hereinafter “CDBG”) program as an urban county as that term is defined in Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended (hereinafter the “Act”); and WHEREAS, HUD has notified the COUNTY that it is a participant in the HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) as defined in Title II of the Cranston-Gonzales National Affordable Housing Act of 1990, as amended; and
WHEREAS, HUD has notified the COUNTY that it is a participant in the Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG) Program; and
WHEREAS, the CDBG qualification process requires that, following HUD’s determination that a county possesses the essential powers to participate in the CDBG program as an urban county, the units of general local government within the county be notified of their opportunity to participate in the county’s CDBG, HOME, and ESG programs by entering into a cooperation agreement with the designated urban county; and
WHEREAS, such cooperation agreements provide that the unit of general local government and the county will cooperate in essential community development and housing assistance activities and that the area and population of the unit of general local government will be included with that of the county by HUD in determining funding levels; and
WHEREAS, the COUNTY has notified the CITY of the opportunity to participate in the COUNTY’s CDBG, HOME, and ESG programs; and
WHEREAS, the CITY desires to participate in and be a part of the COUNTY’s CDBG, HOME, and ESG programs;
AGREEMENT:
1. This Agreement shall remain in effect through the 2029 program year (a program year is the twelve-month period commencing July 1 and continuing through and including the following June 30).
Therefore the CITY shall participate in the COUNTY’s CDBG, HOME, and ESG programs during federal fiscal years 2027, 2028, and 2029, and does therefore approve and acknowledge the COUNTY’s authority to carry out activities that will be funded from annual CDBG, HOME, and ESG appropriations for the federal fiscal years for which the COUNTY is to qualify and from any program income generated from the expenditure of such funds, including such additional time as may be required for completion of funded activities and the expenditure of any such funds granted by the COUNTY to the CITY. The COUNTY shall notify the CITY, by the deadline published in the Urban County Qualification Deadlines on the HUD.gov Urban Counties website, of the CITY’s right not to participate in the subsequent Urban County qualification period. The Cooperation Agreement must remain in effect until the CDBG (and HOME and ESG, where 2 applicable) funds and program income received with respect to activities carried out during the three-year qualification period are expended and the funding activities completed.
2. This Agreement shall automatically renew for one additional three-fiscal-year Urban County qualification period, federal fiscal years 2030, 2031, and 2032, unless the CITY notifies the COUNTY in writing of its decision not to participate by the deadline published in the Urban County Qualification Deadlines on the HUD.gov Urban Counties website. The COUNTY shall notify the CITY of this right not to participate prior to each qualification period. The Agreement may not auto-renew beyond one additional qualification period. Auto-renewal Cooperation Agreement may be amended at the time of requalification for the second three-year qualification period, as well as during the two qualification periods, to cover any new required provisions. If your Urban County fails to make a required amendment to a Cooperation Agreement by the deadlines published on the HUD.gov Urban Counties website, your Cooperation Agreement is voided and you must submit a new Cooperation Agreement.
3. While it remains in effect, neither the COUNTY nor the CITY shall terminate or withdraw from this Agreement (other than as provided by rules and regulations of the Act adopted by the Federal government subsequent to this Agreement).
4. The COUNTY and the CITY shall cooperate to undertake, or assist in undertaking, essential community development and housing assistance activities.
5. The COUNTY shall have final responsibility for selecting CDBG, HOME, and ESG activities, for the filing of the Consolidated Plan with HUD, and implementing the Consolidated Plan as approved by HUD.
6. The CITY shall undertake, without reservation or intent to obstruct, all actions determined by the COUNTY or HUD to be necessary to carry out the CDBG, HOME, and ESG programs and the approved Consolidated Plan and to comply with all CDBG, HOME, and ESG program requirements and applicable Federal and State laws and regulations during the three program years for which the COUNTY qualifies as an urban county and for such additional time as may be required for completion of funded activities and the expenditure of funds granted by the COUNTY for such period.
7. The COUNTY and CITY hereby assume the obligation to take all required actions necessary to assure compliance with the COUNTY’s certification required by section 104(b) of Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended, including Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and the implementing regulations at 24 CFR part 1, and the Fair Housing Act (Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968), and the implementing regulations at 24 CFR part 100, and affirmatively furthering fair housing (AFFH). See 24 CFR Subsection 91.225(a) and Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing definitions and certifications (86 FR 30779 June 10, 2021) to be codified at 24 CFR 5.151 and
5.152, available at https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2021/06/10/2021-12114/restoringaffirmatively-furthering-fair-housing-definitions-and-certifications. Additionally, County and CITY shall take all actions to comply with section 109 of Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, and implementing regulations at 24 CFR part 6, which incorporates Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the implementing regulations at 24 CFR part 8, Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the implementing regulations at 28 CFR part 35, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, and the implementing regulations at 24 CFR part 146, and Section 3 of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968, Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970, and implementing regulations at 49 CFR Part 24, Section 104(d) of Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, and implementing regulations at 24 CFR Part 42, and any and all other applicable laws, regulations and orders. By this assumption, the COUNTY and CITY recognize and accept the provisions of the Act prohibiting urban county funding for activities in, or in support of, any cooperating unit of general local government that does not affirmatively further fair housing within its own jurisdiction or that impedes the 3 COUNTY’s actions to comply with its fair housing certification.
8. Pursuant to the requirements of the Act and implementing regulations found at 24 CFR 570.501(b), the CITY hereby agrees to be subject to the same requirements applicable to subrecipients, including the requirement of a written agreement as precedent to implementation of individual CDBG funded activities, as set forth at 24 CFR 570.503.
9. The CITY shall maintain appropriate record of and return to the COUNTY on receipt by the CITY, any income generated by the expenditure of CDBG, HOME, and ESG funds received by the CITY. In the event of the CITY’s community development program close-out or change in the CITY’s status, any such program income that is on hand or received by the CITY subsequent to such close-out or change in status shall immediately be paid to the COUNTY.
10. The CITY has adopted and is enforcing:
a. a policy prohibiting the use of excessive force by law enforcement agencies within its jurisdiction against any individuals engaged in non-violent civil rights demonstrations; and
b. a policy of enforcing applicable State and local laws against physically barring entrance to or exit from a facility or location which is the subject of such nonviolent civil rights demonstrations within its jurisdiction;
11. The CITY shall comply with those provisions of the CDBG, HOME, and ESG program which apply to real property acquired or improved in whole or in part using CDBG, HOME, and ESG funds and which is within the control of the CITY. Such provisions include CITY responsibility to:
a. make timely notification to the COUNTY of any modifications or change in the use of the real property from that planned and approved by the COUNTY at the time of acquisition or improvement, including its disposition; b. reimburse the COUNTY in an amount equal to the current fair market value (less any portion thereof attributable to expenditures of non-HUD funds) of property acquired or improved with CDBG, HOME, or ESG funds and that is sold or transferred for a use which does not qualify under CDBG, HOME, or ESG program regulations; and
c. immediately return to the COUNTY any program income generated from the disposition or transfer of property prior to or subsequent to close-out, change of status or termination of this Agreement of Cooperation.
12. The CITY understands and agrees that, as a part of the COUNTY’s CDBG program:
a. it may not apply (except as otherwise provided by legislation adopted by the Federal government subsequent to this Agreement) for grants under the HUDAdministered or State-Administered Small Cities or State CDBG programs from appropriations from a fiscal year for which it is participating in the Entitlement CDBG Program with the COUNTY; and
b. it may receive a formula allocation under the HOME Investment Partnerships program or Emergency Solution Grants program only through the COUNTY, regardless of whether the COUNTY receives a HOME Investment Partnerships or 4 Emergency Solutions Grant formula allocation.
13. Parties to this Agreement understand and agree that they may not sell, trade, or otherwise transfer all or any portion of its HUD CDBG funds to a Metropolitan City, Urban County, unit of general local government, or insular area that directly or indirectly receives CDBG funds in exchange for any funds, credits, or non-Federal considerations, but must use such funds for activities eligible under Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended.
14. This Agreement may only be modified by an instrument in writing executed by the COUNTY and the CITY and approved by HUD.
15. Any and all notices sent pursuant to, or in furtherance of the purposes of, this Agreement shall be deemed delivered if personally served upon the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors of the COUNTY or upon the Clerk of the City Council of the CITY, or if sent via the United States Postal Service, postage prepaid, directed to COUNTY, addressed as follows:
Clerk of the Board of Supervisors
County of Kern
1115 Truxtun Avenue, Fifth Floor
Bakersfield, California 93301
or directed to the CITY, addressed as follows:
City of Ridgecrest
100 W. California Ave.
Ridgecrest, CA 93555-4054
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be executed as of the day and year first above written.
Recommended and Approved as to Content
PLANNING AND NATURAL RESOURCES
DEPARTMENT
By______________________________________
Craig M. Murphy, Director
COUNTY OF KERN
By______________________________________
Chairman of the Board of Supervisors
“COUNTY”
Approved as to Form:
OFFICE OF COUNTY COUNSEL
By______________________________________
Joshua H. Rudnick, Deputy
CITY OF RIDGECREST
By _____________________________________
Travis Reed, City Manager
“CITY”
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Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority
STAFF REPORT
SUBJECT: A Resolution of The City Council of The City of Ridgecrest to Levy and Collect Sewer Fees on The General Tax Rolls for Fiscal Year 2026-2027
PRESENTED BY: Terry Roberts, Public Works Director
SUMMARY: Staff has continued to undertake the task of sewer fee levy and collection in-house this year.
Waste-water and Accounting Staff have dedicated much time to keeping this levy in good standing. Said functions that have been completed are as follows:
1. Verify the tax roll and addresses associated match.
2. Verify property use type.
3. Coding each levy according to property type.
4. Field verifies the use of each property.
5. Create a database for information storage moving forward.
6. Verified formulas and methods of calculation.
7. Submission of the special assessment package.
8. Prepare all Levy documentation for County submittal.
The City Council will direct City Staff to furnish to Kern County Board of Supervisors and Kern County Auditor, a description of the parcel for both residential and commercial sewer charges. This is an annual requirement to allow for the collection of the flat rate charge on the property tax bill. The parcels billed by the flat rate charges are shown in Exhibit “A”. Please note Exhibit “A” does not include the County fee associated with applying this levy: As of April 16, 2025, the County has determined their fee to be $0.20 per parcel.
This year’s Sewer fees will not increase for single or multi-family dwellings. See Exhibit “B”.
This Resolution along with Exhibit “A” shall be furnished to the County on or before August 10, 2026.
The revenues derived from the subject charge shall be used only for construction, expansion, maintenance and operation of the City’s wastewater treatment and collection facilities. This resolution complies with the applicable provisions of Article XIIID of the California Constitution and California Government Code 54984 and has authority to adopt a sewer user charge for
use of City sanitation facilities pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 5471, et. seq. and Government Code Section 51334.
The Council will also direct City Staff to bill and collect service charges for those properties whose status is tax exempt and not on the County tax rolls; therefore, are not a part of this resolution.
FISCAL IMPACT:
ACTION REQUESTED: Adopt A Resolution of The City Council of The City of Ridgecrest to Levy and Collect Sewer Fees on The General Tax Rolls for Fiscal Year 2026-2027.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION: Action as requested
Submitted by: Terry Roberts, Michelle Edwards Action Date: July 15, 2026 This Page Intentionally Left Blank
RESOLUTION NO. 26-XX
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RIDGECREST TO
LEVY AND COLLECT SEWER FEES ON THE GENERAL TAX ROLLS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2026/2027
WHEREAS, the City Council will direct the City Clerk to furnish the Kern County Board of Supervisors and the County Auditor with a description of the parcels for both residential and commercial sewer charges; and,
WHEREAS, this is an annual requirement to allow for the collection of the flat rate charge on the property tax bill; and,
WHEREAS, the parcels billed by the flat rate charges are shown in Exhibit “A”; and, WHEREAS, the rates were established for five years beginning in 2013 from a Prop 218 hearing that passed on June 5, 2013, for fiscal year 2026/2027 the rates will remain the same as the previously approved; and,
WHEREAS, The Board of Supervisors and the County Tax Collector are hereby requested to levy and collect the charge as a part of the annual General County Tax Bill; and, WHEREAS, The Council will also direct City Staff to bill and collect service charges for those properties whose status is tax exempt and not on the County tax rolls; therefore, are not a part of this resolution.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest Adopts a Resolution to Levy and Collect Sewer Fees on the General Tax Rolls for Fiscal Year 2026/2027.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 15
th day of July, 2026 by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
___________________________
Travis Endicott, Mayor
ATTEST:
_____________________
Ricca Charlon, CMC
City Clerk
This Page Intentionally Left Blank
DISTRICT: CITY OF RIDGECREST
FUND #: 20455 PAGE: 1 OF 1
SCHEDULE OF RATE CODES AND RATES
FOR TAX YEAR: 2026-2027
RATES INCLUDE AUDITOR-CONTROLLER'S CHARGE _____NO____________ (YES / NO) (I)nc / (A)dd
**NOTE** DISTRICTS CAN ASSIGN RATE CODES 02 THROUGH 98
(RATE CODES 00, 01 AND 99 ARE PREASSIGNED)
RATE CODE RATE DESCRIPTION OF RATE CODE
00 X FLAT AMOUNT
01 378.24 SINGLE FAMILY UNIT
MEMO 99 MINIMUM AMOUNT (DON'T USE ON DISK)
02 329.76 MULTI FAMILY UNIT
03 281.28 MOBILE HOME IN M/H PARK
FORM: RTCD SCH A
Sewer Availability Fees Adopted by City Council on April 6, 2022 Rates 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025
Single Family Residential $31.52 $31.52 $31.52 $31.52 $31.52 $31.52 Multi-Family Residential $27.48 $27.48 $27.48 $27.48 $27.48 $27.48 Mobile Homes $23.44 $23.44 $23.44 $23.44 $23.44 $23.44
Commercial Rates 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025
Annual Fixed Fee* $378.21 $378.21 $378.21 $378.21 $378.21 $378.21 Volumetric Charge (per hundred cubic feet)**
Auto: Repair Shop and Service Station $3.12 $3.12 $3.12 $3.12 $3.12 $3.12 Auto: Steam Cleaning $6.69 $6.69 $6.69 $6.69 $6.69 $6.69 Bakery and Food Preparation $4.81 $4.81 $4.81 $4.81 $4.81 $4.81 Bars w/o Dining Facilities $2.93 $2.93 $2.93 $2.93 $2.93 $2.93 Car Wash $2.61 $2.61 $2.61 $2.61 $2.61 $2.61
Commercial & Institutional - Other $2.59 $2.59 $2.59 $2.59 $2.59 $2.59 Department and Retail Store $2.74 $2.74 $2.74 $2.74 $2.74 $2.74 Hospital and Convalescent $2.71 $2.71 $2.71 $2.71 $2.71 $2.71 Hotel with dining facilities $4.30 $4.30 $4.30 $4.30 $4.30 $4.30 Hotel/Motel without dining $2.83 $2.83 $2.83 $2.83 $2.83 $2.83 Institutional and Professional: Restrooms ONLY $2.54 $2.54 $2.54 $2.54 $2.54 $2.54 Laundromat $2.64 $2.64 $2.64 $2.64 $2.64 $2.64
Laundry: Commercial $3.29 $3.29 $3.29 $3.29 $3.29 $3.29 Laundry: Industrial $4.68 $4.68 $4.68 $4.68 $4.68 $4.68 Market with Garbage Grinders $5.14 $5.14 $5.14 $5.14 $5.14 $5.14 Mortuary $5.14 $5.14 $5.14 $5.14 $5.14 $5.14
Restaurant $4.81 $4.81 $4.81 $4.81 $4.81 $4.81
Soft Water Service $2.34 $2.34 $2.34 $2.34 $2.34 $2.34
Septic System or No Plumbing
Exempt $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
China Lake Naval Air Weapons Station $3.34 $3.34 $3.34 $3.34 $3.34 $3.34 *The annual fixed fee includes the first 71 hundred cubic feet of water flow per year. ** Based on 80% of potable water consumption to account for water not returned to the sewer with except of NAWS which has its sewage metered directly.
FUND ATN ACTION RATE MULTIPLIER AMOUNT
20455 41803012009 C 00 $378.21
20455 08002045001 C 00 $504.60
20455 08002068008 C 00 $885.85
20455 45307113008 C 00 $378.21
20455 06714033004 C 00 $485.62
20455 06714017008 C 00 $378.21
20455 06714060002 C 00 $413.43
20455 41804228003 C 00 $6,610.72
20455 41802008005 C 00 $378.21
20455 06719304006 C 00 $506.67
20455 06719403000 C 00 $378.21
20455 06719211009 C 00 $528.28
20455 06719402007 C 00 $614.42
20455 06719222001 C 00 $378.21
20455 06719401004 C 00 $378.21
20455 06719237005 C 00 $405.15
20455 06719509005 C 00 $637.21
20455 06719236002 C 00 $378.21
20455 06719215001 C 00 $378.21
20455 06719503007 C 00 $378.21
20455 06719502004 C 00 $378.21
20455 06719501001 C 00 $883.55
20455 06719116007 C 00 $378.21
20455 06719607006 C 00 $790.54
20455 06719606003 C 00 $378.21
20455 06719604007 C 00 $2,085.78
20455 06719110009 C 00 $378.21
20455 06719609002 C 00 $378.21
20455 06719608009 C 00 $378.21
20455 06719601008 C 00 $378.21
20455 06703219006 C 00 $1,775.10
20455 06703214001 C 00 $378.21
20455 06703304009 C 00 $441.20
20455 06703505006 C 00 $512.89
20455 06703117003 C 00 $976.63
20455 34335115003 C 00 $1,111.70
20455 34335142001 C 00 $11,581.52
20455 08012119002 C 00 $378.21
20455 08012104008 C 00 $378.21
20455 08012105001 C 00 $406.66
20455 08011306005 C 00 $579.38
20455 08012107007 C 00 $378.21
20455 47702020000 C 00 $378.21
20455 03307038002 C 00 $378.21
20455 39602010001 C 00 $378.21
20455 39602008006 C 00 $378.21
20455 39602009009
C 00 $378.21
20455 06719240003C 00 $783.73
20455 08011414005C 00 $425.87
20455 08011413002C 00 $407.22
20455 06719235009C 00 $5,673.06
20455 47810101002C 00 $431.04
20455 47810107000C 00 $4,541.71
20455 08011417004C 00 $378.21
20455 06719203006C 00 $5,349.83
20455 08011407005C 00 $444.51
20455 47810106007C 00 $8,696.80
20455 39602005007C 00 $730.45
20455 39602013000C 00 $3,575.90
20455 06719202003C 00 $593.70
20455 47810205001C 00 $778.40
20455 08012118009C 00 $1,598.62
20455 06719201000C 00 $378.21
20455 08012116003C 00 $1,736.55
20455 47810208000C 00 $1,894.32
20455 08012202009C 00 $1,474.89
20455 06719119006C 00 $778.11
20455 47810307004C 00 $1,176.93
20455 08012214004C 00 $3,287.30
20455 47805208015C 00 $442.44
20455 06712226002C 00 $529.46
20455 06712225009C 00 $378.21
20455 06712223003C 00 $717.67
20455 47805312004C 00 $1,005.12
20455 08019202000C 00 $68,019.74
20455 08019201007C 00 $378.21
20455 47808209008C 00 $378.21
20455 06712122003C 00 $378.21
20455 08019203003C 00 $2,508.63
20455 06712120007C 00 $4,357.94
20455 47808309005C 00 $7,537.96
20455 08019204006C 00 $2,721.45
20455 08019210003C 00 $2,648.53
20455 06712102005C 00 $378.21
20455 06712101002C 00 $378.21
20455 08019211006C 00 $1,297.88
20455 47808315002C 00 $1,097.19
20455 06704019005C 00 $2,406.11
20455 48001003002C 00 $4,376.43
20455 48001004005C 00 $1,607.56
20455 48001006001C 00 $4,034.57
20455 48001007004C 00 $711.39
20455 06704020007C 00 $430.82
20455 08002060004
C 00 $1,409.47
20455 08002059002C 00 $959.23
20455 08002062000C 00 $933.51
20455 08002061007C 00 $378.21
20455 06704023006C 00 $516.39
20455 39650010000C 00 $608.37
20455 48001009000C 00 $3,821.87
20455 06703208004C 00 $1,084.76
20455 06703207001C 00 $1,084.76
20455 39650009008C 00 $378.21
20455 06703220008C 00 $378.21
20455 06703203009C 00 $1,706.08
20455 06703204002C 00 $2,425.35
20455 06703202006C 00 $518.50
20455 06703217000C 00 $378.21
20455 39650014002C 00 $2,204.15
20455 06703218003C 00 $518.50
20455 39650004003C 00 $8,258.91
20455 06703105008C 00 $378.21
20455 06703104005C 00 $378.21
20455 06703118006C 00 $378.21
20455 06703116000C 00 $701.44
20455 06703115007C 00 $1,963.59
20455 06703101006C 00 $390.64
20455 06702211009C 00 $3,183.40
20455 03306004000C 00 $761.81
20455 34335143004C 00 $1,051.61
20455 42101010001C 00 $28,410.77
20455 50902021005C 00 $31,735.56
20455 03306005003C 00 $5,286.10
20455 50902024004C 00 $2,040.55
20455 50902039008C 00 $665.36
20455 50902050009C 00 $15,127.59
20455 50902049007C 00 $544.80
20455 03306003007C 00 $378.21
20455 03308004006C 00 $10,364.53
20455 42101008006C 00 $2,034.56
20455 42101006000C 00 $2,034.56
20455 42101005007C 00 $28,505.84
20455 03307040007C 00 $1,821.21
20455 42101004004C 00 $3,849.18
20455 42109001009C 00 $9,618.23
20455 03307025004C 00 $378.21
20455 42101024002C 00 $4,899.31
20455 50908305008C 00 $2,491.49
20455 03307026007C 00 $4,380.13
20455 42101026008C 00 $5,057.38
20455 41903204007
C 00 $378.21
20455 41903201008C 00 $378.21
20455 41903104000C 00 $401.90
20455 41903101001C 00 $3,083.35
20455 41902023005C 00 $572.90
20455 41902024008C 00 $539.83
20455 41902022002C 00 $3,098.75
20455 41902019004C 00 $378.21
20455 41907318007C 00 $386.50
20455 41907317004C 00 $378.21
20455 41907316001C 00 $378.21
20455 41907320002C 00 $378.21
20455 41907321005C 00 $437.39
20455 41901015009C 00 $805.03
20455 08102422009C 00 $550.43
20455 41901033001C 00 $378.21
20455 08102421006C 00 $378.21
20455 47805207003C 00 $378.21
20455 08012216000C 00 $378.21
20455 08012212008C 00 $450.73
20455 08001001000C 00 $634.24
20455 47806203004C 00 $378.21
20455 47806216002C 00 $518.58
20455 47806101001C 00 $601.99
20455 47803012007C 00 $5,583.07
20455 08001029002C 00 $378.21
20455 34304160003C 00 $1,252.59
20455 34335136004C 00 $3,020.13
20455 34335120007C 00 $626.85
20455 45609006008C 00 $378.21
20455 47701017009C 00 $378.21
20455 45609005005C 00 $1,107.55
20455 45605117005C 00 $622.05
20455 47703033001C 00 $378.21
20455 45601006004C 00 $465.59
20455 45601005001C 00 $1,060.96
20455 45601004008C 00 $2,767.82
20455 50903001000C 00 $1,349.98
20455 45307222001C 00 $512.89
20455 45307116007C 00 $378.21
20455 45306215008C 00 $378.21
20455 45306151005C 00 $581.27
20455 06702209004C 00 $378.21
20455 06702206005C 00 $488.03
20455 42101013000C 00 $989.45
20455 06702329009C 00 $512.89
20455 06702305009C 00 $849.63
20455 06702303003
C 00 $378.21
20455 42002026004C 00 $1,406.26
20455 42002021009C 00 $1,538.48
20455 06721004000C 00 $597.84
20455 08011307008C 00 $378.21
20455 08011302003C 00 $527.39
20455 08011303006C 00 $739.92
20455 08011208004C 00 $378.21
20455 08002018003C 00 $1,044.71
20455 08013123006C 00 $761.53
20455 08013122003C 00 $639.28
20455 08013109006C 00 $488.03
20455 39606003003C 00 $552.26
20455 41902017008C 00 $3,699.63
20455 41803007005C 00 $378.21
20455 45301324006C 00 $378.21
20455 45301321007C 00 $378.21
20455 45301212004C 00 $395.68
20455 45303208009C 00 $622.71
20455 45301211001C 00 $378.21
20455 45301210008C 00 $768.39
20455 45303205000C 00 $378.21
20455 45301201002C 00 $10,025.44
20455 45301108006C 00 $378.21
20455 45303111000C 00 $577.12
20455 08011401007C 00 $378.21
20455 08011403003C 00 $378.21
20455 08011416001C 00 $378.21
20455 45301104004C 00 $662.07
20455 45303110007C 00 $2,765.15
20455 45303107009C 00 $647.57
20455 42101015006C 00 $664.15
20455 42101016009C 00 $1,306.47
20455 42118063005C 00 $1,134.11
20455 06703325000C 00 $378.21
20455 45301313004C 00 $409.29
20455 45301312001C 00 $498.39
20455 45301308000C 00 $378.21
20455 45301306004C 00 $461.51
20455 45301204001C 00 $378.21
20455 45301303005C 00 $378.21
20455 45301322000C 00 $378.21
20455 45301203008C 00 $378.21
20455 45307243002C 00 $378.21
20455 45303215009C 00 $2,311.39
20455 45307246001C 00 $378.21
20455 45307201000C 00 $378.21
20455 45306145008
C 00 $805.04
20455 45306147004C 00 $405.15
20455 41906105002C 00 $5,191.47
20455 41906215008C 00 $5,191.47
20455 41901054002C 00 $378.21
20455 41901055005C 00 $378.21
20455 41901009002C 00 $4,095.38
20455 41901050000C 00 $587.87
20455 41901047002C 00 $1,651.17
20455 41901049008C 00 $2,340.69
20455 41901048005C 00 $612.83
20455 41901004007C 00 $448.10
20455 41901003004C 00 $448.10
20455 41901001008C 00 $558.47
20455 41804213009C 00 $450.73
20455 41804207002C 00 $378.21
20455 41804205006C 00 $378.21
20455 41804204003C 00 $378.21
20455 41804227000C 00 $378.21
20455 41804120002C 00 $5,673.38
20455 41804105009C 00 $378.21
20455 41804103003C 00 $395.68
20455 41804101007C 00 $601.73
20455 41806209004C 00 $378.21
20455 41806205002C 00 $378.21
20455 41806204009C 00 $378.21
20455 41806220005C 00 $378.21
20455 41806202003C 00 $378.21
20455 41806219003C 00 $378.21
20455 41806107001C 00 $378.21
20455 41806106008C 00 $378.21
20455 41806105005C 00 $378.21
20455 41806103009C 00 $425.87
20455 41806101003C 00 $378.21
20455 45306118000C 00 $378.21
20455 45306117007C 00 $378.21
20455 45306115001C 00 $378.21
20455 45306154004C 00 $751.17
20455 45306101000C 00 $1,784.61
20455 45303214006C 00 $1,320.97
20455 45303201008C 00 $591.57
20455 45303203004C 00 $766.28
20455 45303102004C 00 $1,221.51
20455 42004218001C 00 $416.82
20455 34307021002C 00 $378.21
20455 06705012007C 00 $1,880.41
20455 06705011004C 00 $802.97
20455 45606016008
C 00 $378.21
20455 45313001003C 00 $378.21
20455 03307004003C 00 $400.13
20455 45605205007C 00 $378.21
20455 41810409009C 00 $378.21
20455 47803017002C 00 $378.21
20455 47803032005C 00 $509.79
20455 47711016005C 00 $378.21
20455 47711017008C 00 $378.21
20455 47706002000C 00 $483.88
20455 06701007001C 00 $8,349.19
20455 06704008003C 00 $2,421.20
20455 06701025003C 00 $2,321.75
20455 06701017000C 00 $378.21
20455 06701006008C 00 $1,461.87
20455 06702413009C 00 $494.03
20455 06702414002C 00 $764.29
20455 06701020008C 00 $1,217.37
20455 06702412006C 00 $835.41
20455 06702436006C 00 $575.31
20455 06702309001C 00 $593.60
20455 06702308008C 00 $4,954.27
20455 42105001007C 00 $2,690.86
20455 42105003003C 00 $3,421.98
20455 42002018001C 00 $1,351.75
20455 42105005009C 00 $516.74
20455 42002016005C 00 $427.94
20455 42105006002C 00 $763.60
20455 42105007005C 00 $1,944.35
20455 42101018005C 00 $632.18
20455 50901002007C 00 $7,470.67
20455 42101019008C 00 $16,767.31
20455 42005252002C 00 $567.19
20455 41801007009C 00 $10,844.77
20455 41904245009C 00 $378.21
20455 41904253002C 00 $378.21
20455 41801006006C 00 $378.21
20455 41902041007C 00 $3,444.82
20455 41902002004C 00 $378.21
20455 41902001001C 00 $837.44
20455 41811004009C 00 $378.21
20455 41811002003C 00 $968.73
20455 41802014002C 00 $496.31
20455 41901037003C 00 $471.45
20455 41901002001C 00 $378.21
20455 06719507009C 00 $378.21
20455 06715042003C 00 $378.21
20455 06715019007
C 00 $378.21
20455 06715037009C 00 $454.87
20455 06715041000C 00 $378.21
20455 41802011003C 00 $1,585.22
20455 45307221008C 00 $394.79
20455 45307119006C 00 $378.21
20455 45301305001C 00 $539.83
20455 50921013007C 00 $570.91
20455 41902033004C 00 $410.66
20455 41902031008C 00 $827.28
20455 41902005003C 00 $3,320.45
20455 45301207000C 00 $649.64
20455 45301206007C 00 $413.43
20455 45301110001C 00 $521.18
20455 45301109009C 00 $378.21
20455 45301116009C 00 $378.21
20455 45301115006C 00 $378.21
20455 45301114003C 00 $1,076.47
20455 34321209002C 00 $382.35
20455 34321211007C 00 $2,721.82
20455 34337001001C 00 $463.16
20455 47802048009C 00 $813.06
20455 08011213008C 00 $1,524.91
20455 06719227006C 00 $2,152.14
20455 47802035001C 00 $378.21
20455 47802034008C 00 $378.21
20455 08011211002C 00 $378.21
20455 47802032002C 00 $378.21
20455 47802057005C 00 $610.27
20455 06714055008C 00 $435.62
20455 47802029004C 00 $811.26
20455 39602012007C 00 $378.21
20455 08013119005C 00 $378.21
20455 47802028001C 00 $432.08
20455 06714047005C 00 $498.77
20455 06714046002C 00 $378.21
20455 47802040005C 00 $378.21
20455 06714045009C 00 $378.21
20455 47802041008C 00 $378.21
20455 08013104001C 00 $770.71
20455 39606005009C 00 $378.21
20455 08013201009C 00 $378.21
20455 47802043004C 00 $378.21
20455 06714044006C 00 $483.87
20455 08013202002C 00 $378.21
20455 47802021000C 00 $378.21
20455 47802047006C 00 $378.21
20455 47802018002
C 00 $386.50
20455 39606016001C 00 $378.21
20455 47802016006C 00 $392.43
20455 06714042000C 00 $378.21
20455 08015120003C 00 $2,504.11
20455 47802014000C 00 $378.21
20455 06714016005C 00 $378.21
20455 47802013007C 00 $378.21
20455 06714014009C 00 $378.21
20455 39606012009C 00 $378.21
20455 06714012003C 00 $378.21
20455 47802011001C 00 $378.21
20455 08015105000C 00 $378.21
20455 06714008002C 00 $1,478.74
20455 39606011006C 00 $1,271.24
20455 47802051007C 00 $378.21
20455 08015205007C 00 $539.83
20455 47802056002C 00 $3,875.75
20455 08015301002C 00 $4,078.31
20455 08015304001C 00 $378.21
20455 47802053003C 00 $878.45
20455 06714054005C 00 $378.21
20455 08004101006C 00 $1,615.19
20455 47707015001C 00 $1,868.32
20455 47707003006C 00 $394.79
20455 08004112008C 00 $1,001.88
20455 47709003002C 00 $649.64
20455 47702015006C 00 $521.18
20455 47702018005C 00 $485.95
20455 47702030009C 00 $380.28
20455 47702032005C 00 $529.47
20455 06705005007C 00 $564.69
20455 06705019008C 00 $919.63
20455 47701007000C 00 $664.15
20455 08006122003C 00 $378.21
20455 08006147006C 00 $378.21
20455 34303172005C 00 $378.21
20455 34303116003C 00 $378.21
20455 45607006002C 00 $577.12
20455 45607007005C 00 $617.83
20455 45606011003C 00 $415.51
20455 45606012006C 00 $896.21
20455 34323011009C 00 $1,068.19
20455 47806319008C 00 $649.64
20455 47806410008C 00 $378.21
20455 34336204001C 00 $591.63
20455 06715044009C 00 $378.21
20455 06710601001
C 00 $378.21
20455 06703311009C 00 $806.96
20455 08011201003C 00 $378.21
20455 08011415008C 00 $378.21
20455 47702004004C 00 $378.21
20455 08013311005C 00 $437.14
20455 08108154009C 00 $378.21
20455 06714028000C 00 $378.21
20455 06714057004C 00 $378.21
20455 06714037006C 00 $378.21
20455 06714023005C 00 $378.21
20455 06714021009C 00 $378.21
20455 06714035000C 00 $427.94
20455 06714020006C 00 $427.94
20455 03307047008C 00 $7,906.01
20455 03307053005C 00 $2,158.24
20455 03307044009C 00 $10,980.52
20455 42005222005C 00 $626.85
20455 41906211006C 00 $2,929.43
20455 41906209001C 00 $885.85
20455 41906205009C 00 $386.50
20455 41906203003C 00 $573.28
20455 47808316005C 00 $378.21
20455 48001002009C 00 $2,241.48
20455 47904203005C 00 $378.21
20455 47901001006C 00 $963.47
20455 03307027000C 00 $1,658.37
20455 42004121002C 00 $733.81
20455 45301315000C 00 $601.79
20455 45301209006C 00 $2,010.95
20455 47801010005C 00 $378.21
20455 47809132000C 00 $508.75
20455 08109147002C 00 $378.21
20455 47806206003C 022
20455 08123205007A 022
20455 08114225009A 022
20455 08109116002A 022
20455 08109148005A 011
20455 08109139009D 011
20455 08129253004A 011
20455 08129227009D 011
13 This Page Intentionally Left Blank
RIDGECREST CITY COUNCIL/SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY/
HOUSING AUTHORITY/FINANCING AUTHORITY AGENDA ITEM
STAFF REPORT
SUBJECT: A Declaration Of Equipment And Vehicles As Surplus According To The Fy27 Adopted Budget Purchasing Policy
PRESENTED BY:
Terry Roberts, Public Works Director
SUMMARY:
Staff is requesting to surplus equipment and vehicles that are inoperable, not used, or have outlived their useful life. Said equipment will utilize public auction direct sales, silent auction, or any other means necessary beneficial to the City for disposal.
At a later date staff will prepare a resolution to allocate the money to an expenditure.
FISCAL IMPACT: No cost to City. Revenues from the sale of said equipment will be deposited in revenue accounts and allocated to the FY27 Budget by a separate resolution to be utilized as expenditures.
ACTION REQUESTED:
1. Authorize staff to declare the listed Items as Surplus.
2. Authorize staff to negotiate terms for the disposal of said items.
CITY MANAGER / EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR RECOMMENDATION: Action as Requested Submitted by: Terry Roberts Action Date: July 15, 2026
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RESOLUTION NO. 26-XX
City of Ridgecrest Resolution No. 26-xx
A DECLARATION OF EQUIPMENT AND VEHICLES AS SURPLUS
ACCORDING TO THE FY27 ADOPTED BUDGET PURCHASING POLICY
WHEREAS, In June of 2026, the City Council adopted the FY27 Budget, within said budget the Administrative Purchasing Policy lays out how to dispose of equipment, and; WHEREAS, In this Policy, there is a section on Surplus Supplies and Equipment, and; WHEREAS, Assets to be disposed must be approved by the City Manager, and; WHEREAS, Assets funded through grants/contracts may have restrictions on how they can be disposed of, and;
WHEREAS, Staff has researched the items listed below and found them not to have any restrictions, and;
WHEREAS, The Department Head and the City Manager have approved the surplus of said items.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That The City Council Of The City Of Ridgecrest Does Hereby Declare As Follows:
Section 1. The following equipment is declared as surplus:
MODEL CITY
MAKE MODEL YEAR R NO AGE DEPT
Dodge Ram 1500 2005 287 21 PW
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 2008 347 18 PW
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 2008 348 18 PW
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 2008 350 18 PW
Ford Water Truck 1990 181 36 PW
Ford Escape 2011 377 15 PW
Yamaha Quad ATV 2002 360 24 PD
Yamaha Quad ATV 2002 361 24 PD
Chevrolet 1 Ton Tk 1998 369 28 PD
Ford Escape 2011 377 15 PD
Ford Police Interceptor 2013 397 13 PD
Ford Explorer 2014 404 12 PD
Chevy Tahoe 2015 463 11 PD
Ford Explorer 2015 414 11 PD
Ford Explorer 2015 415 11 PD
Ford Explorer 2021 466 5* PD
Ford Explorer 2023 488 3* PD
* Was in Collision
ALL ITEMS:
Grant?
Reason for Disposal
Recommended Method
Past Useful Life
No
Public Auction
RESOLUTION NO. 26-XX
City of Ridgecrest Resolution No. 26-xx
Section 2. Staff is authorized to negotiate terms for the disposal of items list above by:
public auction direct sales, silent auction, or any other means necessary beneficial to the City.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED, this 15th day of July, 2026, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
Travis Endicott, Mayor
ATTEST:
Ricca Charlon, CMC
City Clerk
14 This Page Intentionally Left Blank
Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority
STAFF REPORT
SUBJECT: A Resolution Of The City Council Of The City Of Ridgecrest Authorizing: An Application For Federal Funding For Fiscal Year 2026-2027 In The Total Amount Of One Hundred Eighty Thousand Five Hundred And Fifty-Nine Dollars ($180,559); The City Manager To Sign And File The Application; And Execute And File All Certification Of Assurances, Contracts Or Agreements; And Designate The Transit Administrator To Provide Additional Information In Connection With The Application For The Section 5311 Project(s) And To Submit And Approve Requests For Reimbursement Of Funds From The Department For The Section 5311 Project(s)
PRESENTED BY: Sergio Covarrubias, Transit Administrator SUMMARY: The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Section 5311 is a program that is formula based and provides funding to states for the purpose of supporting public transportation in rural areas. Rural areas encompass all populations, not included within an urbanized area of 50,000 or more residents.
The funding being allocated to the City of Ridgecrest for Fiscal Year 2026-2027 is totaled at One Hundred Eighty Thousand Five Hundred and Fifty-Nine Dollars ($180,559).
The Department of Transportation is authorized to make available grants to states through the Federal Transit Administration to support capital and operating assistance projects for public transportation systems under Section 5311 of the FTA. The California Department of Transportation has been designated by the Governor of the State of California to administer Section 5311 grants for transportation projects to rural transit and intercity buses. These grants aid in sustaining the maintenance of our public transportation fleet as well as covering costs for day-to-day operations.
The City of Ridgecrest Transit Division has previously used these funds for operational activities and will continue to use the funds for the Fiscal Year of 2026-2027 for the same use.
The FTA is requesting that the City Manager name a designee to provide additional information in connection with the application of the 5311 projects and that the designee also be authorized to submit and approve request for reimbursements of funds. This designee needs to be named by title only and will be the Transit Administrator.
FISCAL IMPACT: Provides $180,559 in federal funding for Transit operations.
Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority
STAFF REPORT
ACTION REQUESTED: Adopt A Resolution Of The City Council Of The City Of Ridgecrest Authorizing:
1. The Submittal Of An Application For Federal Funding For Fiscal Year 2026-2027 In The Amount One Hundred Eighty Thousand Five Hundred and Fifty-Nine Dollars ($180,559);
2. The City Manager To:
A. Sign And File The Application;
B. Execute And File All Certification Of Assurances, Contracts Or Agreements C. Designate The Transit Administrator To Provide Additional Information In Connection With The Application For The Section 5311 Project(s) D. Designate The Transit Administrator To Submit And Approve Request For Reimbursement Of Funds From The Department For The Section 5311 Project(s) CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION:
Submitted by: Sergio Covarrubias, Transit Administrator Action Date: July 15, 2026 RESOLUTION NO. 26-Xx
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RIDGECREST AUTHORIZING:
AN APPLICATION FOR FEDERAL FUNDING FOR FISCAL YEAR 2026-2027 IN THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF ONE HUNDRED EIGHTY THOUSAND FIVE HUNDRED AND FIFTYNINE DOLLARS ($180,559); AND THE CITY MANAGER TO SIGN AND FILE THE APPLICATION; AND EXECUTE AND FILE ALL CERTIFICATION OF ASSURANCES, CONTRACTS OR AGREEMENTS; AND AUTHORIZING THE TRANSIT ADMINISTRATOR
TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION IN CONNECTION WITH THE APPLICATION FOR THE SECTION 5311 PROJECT(S) AND SUBMIT AND APPROVE REQUESTS FOR REIMBURSEMENT OF FUNDS FROM THE DEPARTMENT FOR THE SECTION 5311
PROJECT(S)
WHEREAS, the U. S. Department of Transportation is authorized to make grants to states through the Federal Transit Administration to support capital/operating assistance projects for nonurbanized public transportation systems under Section 5311 of the Federal Transit Act (FTA C 9040.1F and FTA C 9050.1); and,
WHEREAS, the California Department of Transportation (Department) has been designated by the Governor of the State of California to administer Section 5311 grants for transportation projects for the general public for the rural transit and intercity bus; and, WHEREAS, The City of Ridgecrest desires to apply for said financial assistance to permit operation of service/purchase of capital equipment in Kern County; and, WHEREAS, The City of Ridgecrest has, to the maximum extent feasible, coordinated with other transportation providers and users in the region (including social service agencies).
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED AND ORDERED that the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest does hereby authorizes:
1) The City Manager to file and execute applications on behalf of with the Department to aid in the financing of capital projects and operating assistance projects pursuant to Section 5311 of the Federal Transit Act (FTA C 9040.1F and FTA C 9050.1), as amended. 2) The City Manager to execute and file all certification of assurances, contracts or agreements or any other document required by the Department.
3) The Transit Administrator to provide additional information as the Transit Department may require in connection with the application for the Section 5311 projects. 4) The Transit Administrator to submit and approve request for reimbursement of funds from the Department for the Section 5311 project(s).
PASSED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest of Kern County, State of California, at a regular meeting of said Board held on July 15th, 2026 by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
_______________________________
Travis Endicott, Mayor
ATTEST:
__________________________________
Ricca Charlon, City Clerk
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Certifications and Assurances
of the MPO’s and RTPA’s
General Information:
Regional
Agency Name:
Contact
Person:
Contact Email: Contact
Phone:
Name of
Subrecipient:
Project
Description:
Project Amount and Fund Type:
Federal Share Local Share Toll Credits
(if any) Total Project Cost
Local Share Types:
Local Share Type (LTF, STA, etc.) Amount
Total:
*Please reach out to your Liaison if you need more entries* $ 180,559 $ 1,877,833 $ 2,058,392
Kern Council of
Governments
Irene Enriquez [email protected] (661)635-2918 City of Ridgecrest Operating Assistance LTF $ 1,610,026 STAF 99313 $ 257,773 STAF 99314 $ 10,034 $ 1,877,833 Federal Transportation Improvement Program -
Rural non-MPO agencies do not need to provide this information; it will be provided by the State. MPO agencies will need to provide the following FTIP information:
FTIP #: FTIP Approval Date: STIP Reference #:
Certifying Representative:
By signing below, I have read and acknowledge that my agency is in compliance with certifications and assurances as stated above.
Name: Title:
Signature: Sign
Date:
*Electronic signatures are accepted*
17 08/07/2026 Jay Schlosser Executive Director 07/02/2026 Program of Projects (POP)
FFY 2026
Due: August 3rd, 2026 at 2 p.m. PST
Instructions:
PART 1 – Operating Assistance
• Do not list previously approved projects (i.e. projects listed in a prior grant). • Funding split: 44.67% Local Share and 55.33% Federal Share. • Third Party Contract Requirement – all third-party contracts must contain federal clauses required under FTA Circular 4220.1G and be approved by the State prior to bid release.
• Net project cost does not include ineligible cost (i.e. farebox, other revenues, etc.).
PART 2 – 5311 Capital (Vehicles and Preventive Maintenance) • PRE-AWARD AUTHORITY IS STRICTLY FORBIDDEN FOR ALL CAPITAL PURCHASES Receiving an executed Standard Agreement (DOT-213A) is NOT procurement authorization.
• All vehicles procured with Section 5311 program funds must be ADA accessible regardless of service type (fixed route or demand-response service).
• Funding split: 11.47% Local Share and 88.53% Federal Share. • Procurement Contract Requirement – all documents used for procuring capital projects must contain federal clauses required under FTA Circular 4220.1G and approved by DLA prior to bid release.
PART 3 – Congestion Mitigation & Air Quality (CMAQ):
• Request for transfer will be applied for directly through the District - Local Assistance District Engineer, and Headquarters’ Division of Local Assistance. The 5311 Program will receive a confirmation once the transfer is completed.
• Funding split: 11.47% Local Share and 88.53% Federal Share. CMAQ may be funded up to 100% at the discretion of the Regional Planning Agency/MPO.
PART 4 – 5311(f) Operating Assistance:
• Reference Part 1
Program of Projects (POP)
FFY 2026 Due: August 3rd, 2026 at 2 p.m.
PST
Agency Name:
5311 5311(f) CMAQ
Regional Contact Info:
Regional
Contact Name: Phone Number:
Contact Title: Date:
General Information:
County or Region: Caltrans District:
Section A: Available Funding
Apportionment for this Cycle (Federal Share):
Section B: Programming
Operating Assistance Total:
Capital Total:
Total Programmed (Operating + Capital):
CMAQ:
CMAQ Total:
Request for transfer will be applied for directly through the District - Local Assistance, District Engineer, and Headquarters’ Division of Local Assistance. The 5311 Program will receive a confirmation once the transfer is completed.
City of Ridgecrest Irene Enriquez (661)635-2918 Regional Planner Kern 6, 9 $ 180,559 ✔ ✔ 06/19/2026 $ 180,559 $ 180,559 $ 344,289
Programming Instructions:
Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP)
All federal funds to be used for transit projects must be included in a federally approved STIP. A Transportation Planning Agency (TPA) must ensure that Section 5311 projects are included in the Department of Transportation’s (Department) Statewide Transportation Federal Improvement Program (FSTIP), which is jointly approved by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and FTA.
A copy of the federally approved STIP Page must be attached for all projects to be programmed through the Section 5311 program. The project description and associated dollar amounts must be consistent with the federally approved STIP information.
• Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs) are responsible for programming projects within their jurisdiction.
• Rural Transit & Intercity Bus staff will submit Non-MPO / Rural Transportation organizations projects directly to the Department’s Division of Financial Programming for inclusion into the FSTIP.
For further guidance see the Department’s Division of Financial Programming website.
Apportioned Funds – FY2026
PART 1: Operating Assistance
Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs) are responsible for sub-allocating projects within their jurisdiction:
Subrecipient Project
Description Federal Share Local Share
(Excluding Toll Credit)
Toll Credit
Amount
Net Project
Cost
Operating Assistance Funds Total:
City of Ridgecrest Operating Assistance $ 180,559 $ 1,877,832 $ 2,058,392 $ 180,559 $ 1,877,832 $ 0 $ 2,058,392 PART 2: Capital (Vehicles and Preventive Maintenance)
Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs) are responsible for sub-allocating projects within their jurisdiction:
Subrecipient Project
Description Federal Share Local Share
(Excluding Toll Credit)
Toll Credit
Amount
Net Project
Cost
Capital Assistance Funds Total:
$ 0 $ 0 $ 0 $ 0
Non-Apportioned Funds – FY2026
Part 4: Section 5311(f) Operating Assistance:
Subrecipient Project
Description Federal Share Local Share
(Excluding Toll Credit)
Toll Credit
Amount
Net Project
Cost
Operating Assistance Funds Total:
PART 3: Congestion Mitigation & Air Quality (CMAQ):
Subrecipient Project
Description Federal Share Local Share
(Excluding Toll Credit)
Toll Credit
Amount
Net Project
Cost
CMAQ Funds Total:
City of Ridgecrest Purchase One Replacement Battery Electric Cutaway Bus For Transit Fleet $ 304,799 $ 39,490 $ 344,289 $ 304,799 $ 39,490 $ 0 $ 344,289 $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 Apportioned Funds – FY2026
PART 1: Operating Assistance
Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs) are responsible for sub-allocating projects within their jurisdiction:
Subrecipient Project
Description Federal Share Local Share
(Excluding Toll Credit)
Toll Credit
Amount
Net Project
Cost
Operating Assistance Funds Total:
Arvin $ 124,805 California City $ 82,853 Kern Transit $ 988,341 McFarland $ 90,374 Ridgecrest $ 180,559 Shafter $ 154,753 Taft $ 43,478 Tehachapi $ 74,397 Wasco $ 162,704 $ 180,559 $ 1,877,832 $ 0 $ 2,058,392 1 | Page
Project Description
General Project Details:
Please type your
agency name:
Please select Project Types below for which your agency is applying and complete the relevant section of this form (Check all that apply).
Operating Assistance
Capital Revenue Vehicles (Replacements or Expansions)
Preventative Maintenance
General Information
Question 1: Indicate the type(s) of public transportation service for the proposed projects funded by FTA Section 5311. (Check all that apply)
Fixed Route - Vehicles will travel on specific roads and stop at pre-designated locations according to a schedule.
Demand Response - Vehicles will pick people up when they need a ride (Must be open to the general public).
Deviated Fixed Route - Vehicles will travel from point A to point B but go out of the way to pick up or drop off passengers if necessary (Deviations must be open to the general public).
Blended Paratransit - Complementary Paratransit Provided on the Same Vehicle as the Fixed Route Service. Please upload your Blended Paratransit Plan in your Organization’s Profile under the Important Documents Section.
ADA Paratransit Service - Please upload your ADA Paratransit Service Plan in your Organization’s Profile under the Important Documents Section.
City of Ridgecrest
✔
✔
✔
2 | Page
Commuter Service - Fixed route bus service characterized by service predominantly in one direction during peak periods, and with limited stops and routes of extended length, usually between the central business district and outlying suburbs.
University Service - An institution of higher education has a formal arrangement with the transit operator to provide university transportation service.
Charter Service - Transportation provided by a recipient at the request of a third party for the exclusive use of a bus or van for a negotiated price or for events or functions that occur on an irregular basis or for a limited duration.
Question 2: Does your agency receive more than $750,000 in Federal funds? If you marked YES above, has your agency submitted the annual Single Audit Report to the State Controller’s Office (SCO)? The report is due to the SCO on March 31st of each fiscal year.
Your agency must upload a pdf copy of the Single Audit Report along with this application in BlackCat in your Organizations tab under the Important Documents section in the Fiscal Responsibility category.
Question 3: Which one of the following describes the project(s) for which you are applying? (Check all that apply)
Add new service
Expand existing service to additional areas, please explain planned expansions? Maintain service at current level
No ✔
3 | Page
Question 4: Does your agency employ between 50-99 transit-related employees, and requests or receives Capital or Operating Assistance in excess of $1,000,000 in the previous Federal Fiscal Year, or requests or receives Planning Assistance in excess of $250,000 in the previous Federal Fiscal Year.
If YES, your agency must upload its abbreviated EEO plan along with this application in BlackCat in your Organizations tab under the Important Documents section in the Civil Rights category.
Employs 100 or more transit-related employees, and requests or receives Capital or Operating Assistance in excess of $1,000,000 in the previous Federal Fiscal Year, or requests or receives Planning Assistance in excess of $250,000 in the previous Federal Fiscal Year.
If YES, your agency must submit its EEO plan along with this application in BlackCat in your Organizations tab under the Important Documents section in the Civil Rights category.
NoNo
4 | Page
Operating Assistance (Complete ONLY if applying for Operating Assistance Projects) The operating period will be for 1 years with a performance period:
July 1, 2026 - June 30, 2027
Question 1: Please describe the Operating services:
Question 2: Is your Operating Service directly operated by your agency in-house? Yes, Operating service is directly operated in-house.
No, Operating service is not directly operated in-house.
If you answered YES above, then you are done with this Section. If you answered NO, please answer the remaining questions in this Section.
Operating services for the City of Ridgecrest Transit agency are directly operated and involves managing daily logistics- such as vehicle deployment, driver scheduling, and route maintenance, fleet vehicle cleaning and maintenance, fleet procurement, facilities upkeep, driver and passenger safety, fare processing, customer management, dispatching software maintenance and management, and transit system related planning . Services include: Dial-a-Ride (Curb-to-Curb) and Deviated Fixed Route services. ✔
5 | Page
Question 3: Is your Operating Service performed through an Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA), or Joints Powers Authority (JPA) agreement?
If YES, your agency must upload a pdf copy of the agreement in BlackCat in your Organizations tab under the Important Documents section in the Third-Party Contracting category.
Question 4: Is your Operating Service performed through a third-party contract and APPROVED by Caltrans FTA Programs Procurement Oversight Branch?
If YES, your agency must upload a pdf copy of Caltrans FTA Programs Procurement Oversight Branch approval letter in BlackCat in your Organizations tab under the Important Documents section in the Third-Party Contracting category.
If you answered NO, please contact your assigned Liaison to get your 3rd Party Contract approved by Caltrans FTA Programs Procurement Oversight Branch. *If your 3rd Party Contract is expiring soon and you are not exercising your option years, then you must submit a Request For Proposal (RFP) Package within the next 12 months for review and approval by Division of Mass Transportation DMT. Please contact your Liaison for more information.
Question 5: Has the Operating Service third-party contract agreement been modified and received approval from Caltrans FTA Programs Procurement Oversight Branch? (i.e. amended, and or optional period of performance have been exercised).
If you answered YES above, your agency must upload a pdf copy of Caltrans FTA Programs Procurement Oversight Branch approval letter in BlackCat in your Organizations tab under the Important Documents section in the Third-Party Contracting category.
If you answered NO above, please contact your assigned Liaison to get your 3rd Party Contract amendment approved by DMT.
NoNo
6 | Page
What is the base period of the operating service third-party contract? Contractor:
Base Period
Begin Date:
Base Period
End Date: List all Optional Periods Available:
Example: We
Operate, Inc. 7/1/2015 6/30/2020
Yr. 1: 7/1/2020 - 6/30/2021
Yr. 2: 7/1/2021 - 6/30/2022
7 | Page
Capital Revenue Vehicles (Replacements or Expansions)
*PRE-AWARD AUTHORITY IS STRICTLY FORBIDDEN FOR ALL CAPITAL PURCHASES* You will not receive your fully executed Standard Agreement for your capital purchase(s) until your assigned Liaison contacts you to submit a Procurement request. Your Liaison will reach out to you once the grant is awarded by FTA.
Question 1: The proposed Capital purchase(s) is for (check all that apply):
Vehicle Replacement (Complete Questions #2 and #3)
Service Expansion (Skip ahead to Question #3)
Identify the procurement contract or method below:
State ZEB Vehicle
Contracts:
(For contract information go to this Link and enter “ZEB” in the description field).
CalACT/MBTA
Joint Procurement:
CalACT requires: a vehicle quote and floorplan to approve contract utilization. Do NOT submit final Purchase Orders to vendors or CalACT prior to formal Caltrans FTA Programs Procurement Oversight Branch’s authorization.
Piggyback:
Specify the contract the piggyback assignment will be
requested from and the year the contract was awarded:
Other Local
Procurement:
Please Specify:
8 | Page
Question 2: List the current vehicle(s) that will be replaced:
Full VIN# Vehicle
Year
Make/Model or
Vehicle Description Fuel type
Federal
Useful
Life
(Years)
Federal
Useful
Life
(Miles)
Actual
Mileage
Date Placed
in Revenue
Service
Date Taken
Out of
Revenue
Service
Total
Federal
Share Spent
on Original
Purchase
9 | Page
Question 3: List the vehicle(s) your agency proposes to purchase Quantity Vehicle type (bus,
minivan, etc.)
Chassis Type (Ford E450, GM4500, etc.)Fuel
type Length Passenger Capacity
Useful Life in
Years
Useful Life in
Miles Unit Price Total Price
$ 0 $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 $ 0
10 | Page
Question 4: What is the need for this vehicle(s)? How did you select the project? Question 4a: Describe what service improvements would be addressed by acquiring the vehicle(s)?
Question 4b: If your agency is requesting a vehicle(s) replacement, explain why the replacement is needed.
Question 4c: If the request for vehicle(s) is for a service expansion, how was the need for the expansion determined?
11 | Page
Question 5: Complete the proposed procurement schedule for capital project(s):
Procurement Schedule: Date:
RFP/IFB Issue Date:
Contract Award Date:
Initial Delivery Date:
Final Delivery Date:
Question 6: How does your agency intend to meet federal rollingstock (vehicle) requirements to certify post-delivery compliance for Buy-America, Purchaser’s Requirements, and FMVSS?
Qualified in-house inspector
Third-party inspector
Other
(specify):
12 | Page
Preventative Maintenance (Complete ONLY if applying for Preventative Maintenance Projects)
Question 1: Please indicate the type of Preventative Maintenance for the proposed project. (Check all that apply):
Inspections
Repairs or Replacements
Overhauls or Refurbish
Other
(specify):
Question 2: Please describe the Preventative Maintenance activities:
13 | Page
Question 3: Is your Preventative Maintenance performed through a thirdparty contract and APPROVED by Caltrans FTA Programs Procurement Oversight Branch?
If YES, your agency must upload a pdf copy of Caltrans FTA Programs Procurement Oversight Branch’s approval letter in BlackCat in your Organizations tab under the Important Documents section in the Third-Party Contracting category.
If you answered NO, please contact your assigned Liaison to get your 3rd Party Contract approved by Caltrans FTA Programs Procurement Oversight Branch.
Question 4: Has your Preventative Maintenance third-party contract been modified and received approval from Caltrans FTA Programs Procurement Oversight Branch? (i.e. amended, and or optional period of performance have been exercised).
If you answered YES above, your agency must upload a pdf copy of Caltrans FTA Programs Procurement Oversight Branch approval letter in BlackCat in your Organizations tab under the Important Documents section in the Third-Party Contracting category If you answered NO above, please contact your assigned Liaison to get your 3rd Party Contract amendment approved by DMT.
What is the base period of the Preventative Maintenance third-party contract? Contractor: Base Period
Begin Date:
Base Period
End Date: List all Optional Periods Available:
Example: We
Operate, Inc. 7/1/2015 6/30/2020
Yr. 1: 7/1/2020 - 6/30/2021
Yr. 2: 7/1/2021 - 6/30/2022
Civil Rights:
Disadvantage Business Enterprise and Title VI
Agency Name:
Disadvantage Business Enterprise (DBE)
Question 1: Please provide the name and contact information for your agency’s Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Liaison Officer (DBELO). Please make sure the DBELO is assigned the Civil Rights Officer (Title VI, DBE) as a contact type in your organization profile under the Contacts section.
DBELO Name: Contact
Phone:
Contact Email:
Question 2: Is the DBE Implementation Agreement signed by your agency’s authorized signee? (if you are a FTA 5307 recipient you do not need an Implementation Agreement)
If YES, your agency must upload a pdf copy of the DBE Implementation Agreement in BlackCat in your Organizations tab under the Important Documents section in the Civil Rights category.
If NO, work with your Liaison to complete an DBE Implementation Agreement before submitting your application. Otherwise your agency will be considered non-compliant.
If you are an FTA Section 5307 recipient, please upload your DBE FTA Concurrence Letter to BlackCat in your Organizations tab under the Important Documents section in the 5307 Agency Only section.
City of Ridgecrest
Terry Roberts (760)499-5081 [email protected]
Yes
Based on October 3, 2025, Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Interim Final Rule and subsequent federal guidance, Caltrans is currently suspended from submitting the Uniform Reports of DBE Awards/Commitments during the reevaluation process.
• Caltrans has initiated a statewide reevaluation of all certified DBEs (effective March 2, 2026), removing the presumption of disadvantage for all groups.
• During this period, Caltrans is not setting new DBE contract goals on federally funded projects.
• Upon completion of the revaluation process, standardized reporting requirements will continue to apply.
Caltrans ADM-3069 form is the DBE and non-DBE utilization report. It is used to document, verify, and track the ongoing participation, commitments, actual payments made to subcontractors/subconsultants on federally funded projects.
ADM-3069 acts as a prompt payment reporting tool that tracks payment amounts for all subcontractors.
• Invoice Requirement: Agency are required to submit the completed ADM-3069.
• Payment Enforcement: It ensures prime contractors fulfill their obligations to pay subcontractors in a timely manner (prompt payment). o Complete all the fields on the form.
• Compliance: Caltrans uses the data collected on these forms to ensure agencies comply with federal 49 CFR Part 26.~ regulations regarding race-neutral DBE participation and prompt retainage release.
Question 3: Please upload copies of the ADM-3069 for periods April 1 - September 30 and October 1 - March 31 in this application.
If you are an FTA Section 5307 recipient, you are not required to provide a copy of the ADM-3069.
Question 4: What enforcement mechanisms does the subrecipient use for DBE requirements? Please explain below:
Question 5: Does the subrecipient require contractors to obtain approval from its DBELO prior to substituting a DBE firm after contract award? Question 6: Does the subrecipient monitor prime contractors to ensure that DBEs are actually performing applicable work on federally funded projects?
Yes
Applying strict contract and legal remedies to ensure prime contractors comply with federal regulations. Primary mechanisms include enforcing prompt payment, conducting commercially useful function reviews, and utilizing penalties like withholding payments or terminating contracts. The City of Ridgecrest uses clauses in contracts, interviews with subrecipients and itemized billing to ensure compliance.
Yes Yes
Question 7: Did the subrecipient receive any complaints or procurement protests alleging that it did not comply with the DBE regulations for federally funded projects? If YES, please briefly describe:
Question 8: What are the subrecipients' processes for handling protests? Please explain below:
The following Link is to FTA’s DBE program, “Section 26.37 Monitoring and Enforcement Mechanisms” this section gives examples of monitoring and enforcement mechanisms that ensure compliance.
No
Protests are submitted to the City Clerk for review by the DBELO, appropriate City staff and the legal team.
Title VI
Your agency must upload a pdf copy of your Title VI Plan and Title VI Approval Letter in BlackCat in your Organizations tab under the Important Documents section in the Civil Rights category.
If you DO NOT have an approved Title VI Plan, please contact your Liaison for more information.
Question 1: Has your agency changed fares in the last year? If you marked YES above, how did you notify the public of the fare change? (Check all that apply below):
Agency Website/
Social Media
Newspaper Radio Flyers
Public Hearings TV/Cable Other Describe Other:
If fares were changed, was an equity analysis done on the impact of fare changes on minority and low-income populations? If YES, please upload a copy of the analysis to your application in the Documents Section.
Question 2: Are Title VI complaints documented and listed? No Yes
Question 3: Are or were there any Title VI related lawsuits or complaints filed within the past year?
If YES, does the review of lawsuits or complaints denote a pattern of discrimination?
Was the following information provided to Caltrans Office of Civil Rights:
• The date the lawsuit or complaint was filed,
• the name and address of the complainant
• and a summary of the allegation.
If NO, then please contact Edwin Bragado at [email protected] to get this information submitted to Caltrans Office of Civil Rights.
Question 4: Has an FTA Civil Rights Compliance Review been performed within the past year?
If YES, please provide the following information below: The name of the agency or organization conducting the review, A summary of findings and recommendations and the status or disposition of the recommendations.
No No
Charter Bus
Agency Name:
Charter Bus
Question 1: Does your agency provide charter services?
If YES, your agency must submit a Charter Bus Service Quarterly Report to FTA and answer questions #2 through #4. If you answered NO, then you do not have to answer the rest of this form.
Question 2: Is charter service using FTA funded or maintained vehicles provided under one of the exception(s)? If no, skip this section. If yes, check all that best describes the charter service below:
Government officials on official government business
Qualified Human Service Organization (QHSOs)
Leasing FTA funded equipment and drivers
When no registered charter provider responds to notice from an agency Agreement with registered Charter providers
Petitions to the Administrator
Question 3: Did the transit agency provide notice to all registered charter providers prior to providing the requested charter service? Question 4: Was all charter service reporting timely?
NoNo
City of Ridgecrest
How to submit your Charter Bus Service Quarterly Report:
The following is a link to FTA’s Charter Bus Service Quarterly Reports. Your agency must submit a pdf copy of the Charter Bus Service Quarterly Report along with this application stored in the agency profile on the BlackCat Grant Management System.
https://www.transit.dot.gov/regulations-and-guidance/access/charter-busservice/charter-bus-service-quarterly-reports Reporting Schedule:
Quarter Report Deadline
January 1 – March 31 April 30
April 1 – June 30 July 30
July 1 – September 30 October 30
October 1- December 31 January 30
Rolling Stock Status Report
California Department of Transportation
Division of Local Assistance
FTA Grant Application
Agency Vehicle ID# Vehicle
Year
Make/Model or
Vehicle Description
VIN Date Placed in
Revenue Service
Date Taken Out
of Revenue
Service
Actual Mileage
when removed
from Revenue
Service
Total Federal
Share Spent on
Original
Vehicle
Purchase
Federal
Useful
Life (Yr)
Minimum
Useful Life
Mileage
R389 2012 El Dorado Aero Elite 1FDAF5GY4CEB55889 9/1/2012 N/A $ - 10.0 100,000 R390 2012 El Dorado Aero Elite 1FDAF5GY4CEB55880 9/1/2012 N/A N/A $ - 10.0 100,000 R391 2012 El Dorado Aero Elite 1FDAF5GY4CEB11055 9/1/2012 N/A N/A $ - 10.0 100,000 R392 2012 El Dorado Aero Elite 1FDAF5GY2CEB55891 9/1/2012 N/A N/A $ - 10.0 100,000 R398 2013 El Dorado Aero Elite 1FDAF5GY3CEC71794 9/1/2013 N/A N/A $ - 10.0 100,000 R399 2013 El Dorado Aero Elite 1FDAF5GY3CEC71795 9/1/2013 4/7/2022 108,572 $ - 10.0 100,000 R423 2016 Starcraft Allstar 1FDFE4FS1GDC57999 11/14/2017 N/A N/A $ - 7.0 100,000 R424 2016 Starcraft Allstar 1FDFE4FS4GDC58001 11/14/2017 N/A N/A $ - 7.0 100,000 R457 2020 Ford Transit Van IFFBW3X82LKB40435 10/1/2021 N/A N/A $ 85,000 7.0 100,000 R499 2022 Ford Transit T350 Electric 1FDVU4X86NKA31306 7/21/2024 N/A N/A $114,135 7.0 100,000 R533 2023 Ford E-Transit 350 1FTBW3XK0PKA59998 3/31/2026 N/A N/A $ - 7.0 100,000 Fleet Status Report
California Department of Transportation
Division of Local Assistance
FTA Grant Application
Fleet Status Report for FTA 5311 and 5339 Application
Active Fleet Before After Change
A Peak Requiremewnt 5 5 0
B Spares 4 4 0
A + B Total 9 9 0
B/A Spare Ratio 0.8 0.8 #DIV/0!
Information to be Provided by Agency
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RIDGECREST CITY COUNCIL/SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY/
HOUSING AUTHORITY/FINANCING AUTHORITY AGENDA ITEM
STAFF REPORT
SUBJECT: A Resolution Of The Ridgecrest City Council Approving A Five-Year Transit Development Plan
PRESENTED BY:
Terry Roberts, Public Works Director
Summary:
The Transit Development Plan (TDP) is a five-year roadmap for improving transit service, operations, and infrastructure in the City. It was developed collaboratively with the public, City staff, and the consultant team Nelson/Nygaard. The TDP reflects the City’s needs and priorities and will support future budgeting decisions and grant applications.
Staff recommends City Council approve this resolution accepting the TDP to be used to guide transit improvements and to be used as a supporting document when applying for grants to secure funding.
Attachment: Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan June 2026 FISCAL IMPACT: No costs. Future use of the TDP to support requests for grants.
ACTION REQUESTED:
1. Approve this resolution accepting the Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan of June 2026.
CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDATION:
Action as Requested
Submitted by: Terry Roberts Action Date: July 15, 2026
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RESOLUTION NO. 26-xx
A RESOLUTION OF THE RIDGECREST CITY COUNCIL APPROVING A
FIVE-YEAR TRANSIT DEVELOPMENT PLAN
WHEREAS, the consultant team, Nelson/Nygaard, has developed a Transit Development Plan (TDP) as a five-year roadmap to improve transit service, operations, and infrastructure, in collaboration with the public and City Staff; and WHEREAS, the TDP reflects community input, gathered through surveys, inperson engagement, and a bilingual virtual meeting to identifying key Transit topics; and WHEREAS, the TDP identifies opportunities to expand and enhance service to better meet the needs of residents; and
WHEREAS, the TDP outlines recommendations across service, operations, administrative/policy, and capital improvements; and
WHEREAS, adoption of the TDP will provide a flexible framework to guide future transit improvements, support budgeting decisions, and strengthen the City's ability to secure grant funding as resources become available.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED,
1. The Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan June 2026 is hereby approved.
2. City staff is authorized to implement the TDP recommendations in phases, as funding and resources become available, and to adjust timelines as necessary based on feasibility and community needs.
3. City staff is authorized to support ongoing coordination with Kern Transit and to monitor performance, report on progress, and recommend updates to ensure continued alignment with City priorities.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 15th day of July 2026 by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Travis Endicott, Mayor
ATTEST:
Ricca Charlon, CMC, City Clerk
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Kern Council of
Governments
City of
Ridgecrest
Transit Development Plan
June 2026
Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Final Report
Kern Council of Governments
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Executive Summary .....................................................................................................................i 1 Introduction........................................................................................................................ 1 Plan Approach ............................................................................................................................................1 Purpose of Document.................................................................................................................................2 2 Overview of Transit in Ridgecrest and the Surroudning Areas .......................................... 3 Local Transit.................................................................................................................................................3 Kern Transit..................................................................................................................................................3 Other Local Operators..............................................................................................................................4 Intercity Operators ....................................................................................................................................8 3 Existing and Future Market Conditions ............................................................................ 10 Population................................................................................................................................................. 11 Demographic Analysis............................................................................................................................ 15 Employment .............................................................................................................................................. 26 Major Activity Generators..................................................................................................................... 32 4 Service Evaluation ........................................................................................................... 42 Local Service Summary .......................................................................................................................... 42 Historical Trends ...................................................................................................................................... 47 Current Performance .............................................................................................................................. 55 Transfers to Other Providers................................................................................................................. 58 Transit Need Analysis............................................................................................................................. 58 Expenses and Revenues ......................................................................................................................... 60 Fleet and Facilities .................................................................................................................................. 61 Zero-Emission Transition Plan ................................................................................................................ 62 Agency Interview..................................................................................................................................... 62 Key Takeaways....................................................................................................................................... 63 5 Plan Review..................................................................................................................... 64 Ridgecrest 2007 Transportation Development Plan ........................................................................ 64 6 Outreach Overview and Phase One Summary................................................................ 66 Phase One Public Outreach Summary ................................................................................................ 67 Phase One Ridgecrest Survey Results................................................................................................. 67 7 Recommendations ........................................................................................................... 69 Resiliency: An Overarching Consideration ......................................................................................... 70 Operations Recommendations.............................................................................................................. 72 Administrative and Policy Recommendations..................................................................................... 77 Capital Recommendations..................................................................................................................... 81 8 Phase Two Public Outreach Summary ............................................................................. 83 Ridgecrest Virtual Public Meeting........................................................................................................ 83 Phase Two Survey ................................................................................................................................... 84 9 Improvement Phasing...................................................................................................... 85 Implementation Phasing Table.............................................................................................................. 86 10 Financial Forecast ............................................................................................................ 88 Data Sources............................................................................................................................................ 88 Financial Model and Assumptions ........................................................................................................ 88 Limitations ................................................................................................................................................. 89 Revenue Sources...................................................................................................................................... 90 Major Expenses........................................................................................................................................ 92 Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Final Report
Kern Council of Governments
Recommendations and Improvement Costs ........................................................................................ 93 Key Takeaways....................................................................................................................................... 94 Appendix A: Countywide Demographic Maps
Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Final Report
Kern Council of Governments
TABLE OF FIGURES
Page
Figure 1 Transit Network in Kern County ..........................................................................................5 Figure 2 Kern Transit Route 230 Alignment......................................................................................6 Figure 3 Kern Transit Route 227 Alignment......................................................................................7 Figure 4 Intercity Transit Routes in Kern County ..............................................................................9 Figure 5 City of Ridgecrest Population Density............................................................................ 12 Figure 6 Kern County Historical Population Growth 2005 to 2025 ........................................ 13 Figure 7 Population Forecast by Regional Subarea: 2024 to 2050....................................... 13 Figure 8 Kern COG Regional Subareas Definitions .................................................................... 14 Figure 9 City of Ridgecrest Proportion of People of Color....................................................... 16 Figure 10 City of Ridgecrest Proportion of Veterans.................................................................... 17 Figure 11 City of Ridgecrest Proportion of People with Disabilities.......................................... 18 Figure 12 City of Ridgecrest Proportion of Older Adults............................................................. 19 Figure 13 City of Ridgecrest Proportion of Young Adults............................................................. 20 Figure 14 City of Ridgecrest Proportion of People in Poverty.................................................... 22 Figure 15 City of Ridgecrest Proportion of People with Limited English Proficiency............................................................................................................................ 24 Figure 16 City of Ridgecrest Proportion of Households with Zero Vehicles.............................. 25 Figure 17 City of Ridgecrest Employment Density ......................................................................... 27 Figure 18 City of Ridgecrest Low-Wage Employment Density.................................................... 28 Figure 19 Projected Employment Growth in Kern County............................................................. 29 Figure 20 Major Employers in Kern County..................................................................................... 30 Figure 21 Major Employers in Kern County..................................................................................... 31 Figure 22 Public Housing in Kern County.......................................................................................... 33 Figure 23 Grocery Stores in Kern County ........................................................................................ 35 Figure 24 Medical Facilities in Kern County .................................................................................... 37 Figure 25 Schools in Kern County....................................................................................................... 39 Figure 26 Prisons and Correctional Facilities in Kern County ....................................................... 41 Figure 27 Ridgecrest Transit System Overview .............................................................................. 43 Figure 28 City of Ridgecrest Organizational Chart....................................................................... 45 Figure 29 Ridgecrest Transit Service Span ...................................................................................... 46 Figure 30 Ridgecrest Transit Ridership for System......................................................................... 48 Figure 31 Ridgecrest Transit Systemwide Revenue Hours............................................................. 49 Figure 32 Ridgecrest Transit Systemwide Productivity (Riders per Revenue Hour)...................................................................................................................................... 50 Figure 33 Ridgecrest Transit Systemwide Operations & Maintenance (O&M) Cost........................................................................................................................................ 51 Figure 34 Ridgecrest Transit Systemwide O&M Cost per Trip.................................................... 52 Figure 35 Ridgecrest Transit Systemwide O&M Cost per Revenue Hour.................................. 53 Figure 36 Ridgecrest Transit Farebox Recovery for System........................................................ 54 Figure 37 Systemwide Ridership by Month for Ridgecrest Transit.............................................. 55 Figure 38 Ridership by Day of Week for Ridgecrest Transit ...................................................... 56 Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Final Report
Kern Council of Governments
Figure 39 Productivity by Day of Week for Ridgecrest Transit (February 2025) .................................................................................................................................... 57 Figure 40 Transit Propensity in the City of Ridgecrest .................................................................. 59 Figure 41 Ridgecrest Transit Expenses – FY 2024......................................................................... 60 Figure 42 Ridgecrest Transit Revenues – FY 2024......................................................................... 60 Figure 43 Ridgecrest Transit Fleet Composition .............................................................................. 61 Figure 44 Recommendations from 2007 Ridgecrest Transportation Development Plan............................................................................................................... 65 Figure 45 Revenue Sources for Ridgecrest Transit, FY 2027–2031........................................... 91 Figure 46 Ridgecrest Transit LTF and STA Funding Received, FY 2021–2025........................ 92 Figure 47 Expenses for Ridgecrest Transit, FY 2027–2031 ........................................................ 92 Figure 48 Ridgecrest Transit Financial Position, Baseline and with Recommendations, FY 2027–2031................................................................................. 94 Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Final Report
Kern Council of Governments i
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Kern Council of Governments (Kern COG) plays a critical role in planning and coordinating transportation in Kern County. This project is a combined effort that seeks to update nine Transit Development Plans (TDPs) for Kern County transit agencies as well as the Coordinated Human Services Transportation Plan. The City of Ridgecrest TDP is one of the nine TDPs the Nelson\Nygaard team is updating as part of this project.
This project supports Kern COG’s Regional Transportation Plan, which is a long-term (20- year) plan for Kern County’s entire transportation network. This project is funded by a Caltrans Sustainable Communities grant under the Climate Adaptation Program.
Plan Objectives
TDPs are usually updated every five years and are planning tools focusing on short-term transit needs and improvements.
The City of Ridgecrest’s previous TDP is now nearly 20 years old and must be updated to reflect the current environment. The goal of the TDP is to recommend improvements to transit service, connectivity, and access.
Plan Approach
The project team started by performing an existing conditions assessment. We analyzed existing data to identify potential issues, challenges, and opportunities for improving transit.
We also conducted an interview with city staff and asked transit riders in Ridgecrest for their feedback and insights.
Based on the findings from the existing conditions assessment, Nelson\Nygaard developed recommendations to address the identified issues, challenges, and opportunities. Once recommendations were developed, we conducted a workshop with city staff to review and refine the recommendations. Once city staff were comfortable, the recommendations were presented to the public for input.
Using input from the public, Nelson\Nygaard then developed a five-year plan to implement the proposed recommendations. We also developed a financial model to help the City understand the costs associated with implementation.
Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Final Report
Kern Council of Governments ii
Key Takeaways
The following issues were among those identified during the TDP existing conditions assessment:
Span of service is limited. Service only operates on weekdays from 6:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for the deviated fixed-route, and from 6:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for Dial-ARide. There is no weekend service. Frequency is limited too. Ridgecrest Transit’s Inyokern-Joshua Tree deviated-fixed route has three daily round trips. The Randsburg/Johannesburg route operates only two one-way trips on Fridays.
Vehicles will need to be replaced soon. All but one of the cutaway buses have exceeded Ridgecrest Transit’s useful life benchmark and will likely need to be replaced in the next two to three years. The City has a vehicle replacement plan in place.
Ridgecrest Transit maintained good productivity through the pandemic. For a primarily demand-response service, productivity is still good and is increasing.
Public Outreach
The project team engaged in continuous outreach with the community to ensure the Ridgecrest TDP reflects the input and priorities of Ridgecrest residents. This section summarizes the project team’s work with Kern COG and Ridgecrest city staff to conduct and advertise the outreach events and gather input from residents for inclusion in the plan.
There were two phases of community outreach:
Phase One (June–July 2025): Listen and learn about the community’s challenges and aspirations for transit. This phase of outreach involved administering a survey to Ridgecrest Transit riders in person and online.
Phase Two (March 2026): Present potential transit recommendations for feedback.
This phase of outreach involved a virtual public meeting to explain the potential transit recommendations and a virtual survey to gather feedback from Ridgecrest Transit riders about the potential improvements.
Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Final Report
Kern Council of Governments iii
Phase One Outreach
The project team conducted outreach in Ridgecrest on June 24, 2025, riding the Ridgecrest Dial-A-Ride vehicle and administering a survey to riders. The bilingual (English and Spanish) survey also available online for three weeks.
During the ride-along, bilingual outreach staff (fluent in both English and Spanish) connected with six community members. Some riders took the survey, and their results are included in the summary in the next section. No additional comments were received outside of the survey.
Given the small sample size it is difficult to draw conclusions from Phase One outreach.
Phase Two Outreach
Phase Two outreach took place in March 2026.
The goals of Phase Two outreach were to provide an update on the Transit Development Plan project and to present the proposed recommendations to the public for feedback.
Phase Two outreach involved a virtual public meeting in Ridgecrest in March and an online survey.
Ridgecrest Virtual Public Meeting
The Nelson\Nygaard team and City staff held a virtual public meeting on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. The meeting was hosted on Zoom. Although no community members attended the meeting the presentation was recorded and posted online. The City’s outreach and promotion efforts for this meeting included posting the meeting flyer on City transit vehicles, posting an announcement on their website, and handing out flyers to passengers.
Nelson\Nygaard staff presented about the TDP process and the proposed transit improvement involving later weekday service. The meeting was presented in English and Spanish with bilingual slides and translation available throughout.
Phase Two Survey
A virtual survey was administered as part of Phase Two
outreach and was open for almost four weeks in March 2026.
The City handed out flyers with the survey QR code to transit passengers and distributed paper copies of survey questions at the Ridgecrest Senior Center.
The survey was also advertised during the recorded virtual public meeting held on March 12, 2026.
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Kern Council of Governments iv
Like the public meeting, the intent of the survey was to receive feedback on the recommendations and how the recommendations could be implemented in phases. The survey also asked respondents demographic and socioeconomic questions, including their transit usage and vehicle ownership, age, ethnicity, and income. No community members completed the survey.
System Recommendations
Recommendations are specific actions that the City of Ridgecrest can take to address current challenges and transportation needs in the community.
Eleven different recommendations are presented on the following pages. The recommendations are divided into three distinct categories:
Operations recommendations focus on improving how service is delivered, which includes new approaches to dispatching, coordinating with other operators like Kern Transit, and new programs for training drivers, as well as identifying and applying for grants.
Administrative and policy recommendations identify approaches to improve customer experience, comply with state guidelines, and smooth the transition to a zero-emission fleet.
Capital recommendations involve capital projects that would upgrade or enhance agency assets, enhance agency resiliency, and improve transit access for riders.
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Kern Council of Governments v
Operations Recommendations
Number Recommendation Description Responsibility for
Implementation
Cost
O-1 Improve Coordination with
Regional Peers
Use regular meetings with ESTA to
discuss issues and solutions. Improve
communications to ease transfers to and
from ESTA.
Ridgecrest, ESTA Minimal cost to agency
O-2 Establish Countywide Driver
Training Program
Establish a standard driver training
program across the county by sharing
materials, centralizing training, or
developing a program at local colleges
Kern COG lead,
Ridgecrest and other
agencies support
Further study needed
O-3 Establish Countywide Grant
Resource Program
Establish a grant resource program with
Kern COG to centralize information and
opportunities on grant funding
Kern COG lead,
Ridgecrest and other
agencies support
Further study needed,
but could be minimal cost
O-4
Support Countywide
Procurement of New
Dispatching Software
Support feasibility study examining the
possibility of jointly procuring dispatching
software with Kern COG
Kern COG lead,
Ridgecrest and other
agencies support
Minimal cost to agency
O-5
Explore Opportunities to Share
Zero-Emission Vehicle
Maintenance Expertise
Investigate the possibility of sharing
maintenance resources (staff, training, or
both) for Dial-A-Ride
Kern COG lead,
Ridgecrest and other
agencies support
Further study needed
: Denotes a recommendation that supports agency resiliency Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Final Report
Kern Council of Governments vi
Administrative/Policy Recommendations
Number Recommendation Description
Responsibility for
Implementation Cost
A-1 Improve Customer
Communication and Website
Add information on the website for Dial-ARide service and Kern Transit Route 227 and 230. Develop a brochure that
advertises the availability of other transit
options (Kern Transit, ESTA) and how to
ride Ridgecrest Transit.
Ridgecrest Minimal cost to agency
A-2
Continue Developing
Onboarding Manuals for Agency
Staff
Continue development of onboarding
manuals to help to ensure agency
resiliency with staff turnover and
streamline the onboarding process
Ridgecrest Minimal cost to agency
A-3 Update Farebox Recovery
Compliance Policy
Develop strategy when new guidance is
released to remain compliant Ridgecrest Minimal cost to agency A-4 Create a Zero-Emission Fleet
Resiliency Plan
Develop a zero-emission resiliency plan to
identify ways to improve the resiliency of
vehicle operations with a zero-emission
fleet
Ridgecrest $10,000–$50,000
One time
: Denotes a recommendation that supports agency resiliency Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Final Report
Kern Council of Governments vii
Capital Recommendations
Number Recommendation Description Responsibility for
Implementation Cost
C-1 Continue Development of
Training Facility
Secure funding to begin
design/construction of new training
facility
Ridgecrest Unknown,
Further study needed
C-2 Continue Vehicle Replacement
Program
Several of Ridgecrest Transit's vehicles
are at the end of or approaching the
end of their useful life. The agency
should continue its fleet replacement
plan until there are no vehicles in the
fleet that are beyond their useful life.
Ridgecrest $750,000
: Denotes a recommendation that supports agency resiliency Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Final Report
Kern Council of Governments viii
Phasing Plan
There are eleven recommendations to be implemented by Ridgecrest Transit. Since the TDP is a five-year plan, the improvement phasing matrix that follows is set up to organize which recommendations should be implemented during which year of the plan. The recommendations are intentionally staggered throughout the life of the plan to not overwhelm the City in the first few years.
Simpler and lower-cost recommendations can be implemented sooner. This includes items such as improving customer communications by updating the website or creating new brochures advertising the availability of other transit providers (ESTA and Kern Transit).
This implementation plan was used in the development of a financial plan, discussed at the end of the executive summary.
Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Final Report
Kern Council of Governments ix
Number Recommendation Responsibility Year One (FY 2027) Year Two (FY 2028) Year Three (FY 2029) Year Four (FY 2030) Year Five (FY 2031) O-1 Improve Coordination with
Regional Peers Ridgecrest, ESTA
Work with ESTA to establish
monthly coordination calls to
discuss on-time performance and
transfers at Inyokern
O-2 Establish Countywide Driver
Training Program
Kern COG lead,
Ridgecrest and other
agencies support
Begin discussions with other
interested transit operators in
Kern County
Identify volunteers to be part of
a task force to formally evaluate
and build out the structure of
program
Connect with potential industry
and education partners
Continue the development of the
program
Finalize and roll out the program
O-3 Establish Countywide Grant
Resource Program
Kern COG lead,
Ridgecrest and other
agencies support
Begin discussions with other
interested transit operators in
Kern County
Identify volunteers to be part of
a task force to formally evaluate
and build out the structure of
program
Finalize and roll out program
O-4
Support Countywide
Procurement of New
Dispatching Software
Kern COG lead,
Ridgecrest and other
agencies support
Share experience with procuring
and using TripSpark software with
other agencies
Begin discussions with other
interested transit operators in Kern
County
Develop structure for
procurement and cost sharing
agreements
Begin procurement process
Select vendor and onboard all
participating agencies
Conduct necessary training
O-5
Explore Opportunities to Share
Zero-Emission Vehicle
Maintenance Expertise
Kern COG lead,
Ridgecrest and other
agencies support
Begin discussions with other
interested transit operators in
Kern County
Identify volunteers to be part of
a task force to formally evaluate
and determine feasibility
Begin evaluation and feasibility
assessment
Continue evaluation and
feasibility assessment
Begin building out the structure
of program
Review plans with agency
partners
Begin implementation Continue implementation
Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Final Report
Kern Council of Governments x
Number Recommendation Responsibility Year One (FY 2027) Year Two (FY 2028) Year Three (FY 2029) Year Four (FY 2030) Year Five (FY 2031) A-1 Improve Customer
Communication and Website Ridgecrest
Develop brochure explaining
transit options and how to ride
Ridgecrest Transit
Update Ridgecrest Transit
website
A-2
Continue Developing
Onboarding Manuals for Agency
Staff
Ridgecrest Finalize onboarding manual for
Transit Administrator position
A-3 Update Farebox Recovery
Compliance Policy Ridgecrest Develop a compliance strategy when new guidance is released
A-4 Create a Zero-Emission Fleet
Resiliency Plan Ridgecrest Create zero-emission fleet
resiliency plan Implement findings
Number Recommendation Responsibility Year One (FY 2027) Year Two (FY 2028) Year Three (FY 2029) Year Four (FY 2030) Year Five (FY 2031) C-1 Continue Development of
Training Facility Ridgecrest Secure funding for a new transit training facility Begin final design work Begin construction if funding is secured
C-2 Continue Vehicle Replacement
Program Ridgecrest Acquire two new EV vans Acquire one new EV cutaway bus : Denotes a recommendation that supports agency resiliency Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Final Report
Kern Council of Governments xi
Financial Forecast
As part of this TDP, Nelson\Nygaard developed a five-year financial model to understand projected revenues and expenditures for the life of the plan. Using projections built off historical data, these forecasts are meant to provide a high-level view of Ridgecrest Transit’s financial health, upcoming capital projects, and capacity to implement recommendations.
The table on the following page displays the current net position and the reserve between FY 2027 and the end of the plan in FY 2031. The reserve is calculated from the first year of the financial model (FY 2022) and does not reflect any previous savings the agency may have. It also provides the estimated costs of implementing each recommendation and the net position if all are implemented. For costs with a range due to different implementation options, a high and low estimate is given, and a best-case overall position is provided. These costs are planning-level estimates given in 2025 dollars. Nelson\Nygaard’s financial model shows that Ridgecrest Transit should be able to operate service at existing levels over the next five years based on projected growth in operating funds.
Over the last four years, the City has been spending between 0% and 83% of Local Transportation Fund (LTF) and State Transit Assistance Fund (STA) funding on transit operations. The City can reduce TDA allocation to 40% on average and still have sufficient funds to implement all recommendations shown on the following page.
The City of Ridgecrest has not budgeted the exact cost of the transit training facility; however, it is likely that it will cost at least $1 million. Much of this is expected to be funded using grant money. Given the uncertainty around future capital funding needs, our financial model does not include any capital expenses beyond fleet replacement.
Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Final Report
Kern Council of Governments xii
Ridgecrest Transit’s Financial Position, Baseline and with Recommendations, FY27–31 FY 2027 FY 2028 FY 2029 FY 2030 FY 2031
Projected Baseline Net
Position and Reserve
Net Position $153,550 $200,160 $250,080 $303,500 $360,600 Net Reserve $1,145,070 $1,345,230 $1,595,310 $1,898,810 $2,259,410 Estimated
Recommendation Costs
C-2 Continue Vehicle
Replacement Program $(516,730) $(250,000)
A-4 Create Zero-Emission
Fleet Resiliency Plan $(10,000)
Sum of Costs $(526,730) $(250,000)
Projected Position $(373,180) $(49,840) $250,080 $303,500 $360,600 Sources: Nelson\Nygaard Projection
Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Final Report
Kern Council of Governments 1
1 INTRODUCTION
Kern Council of Governments (Kern COG) plays a critical role in planning and coordinating transportation in Kern County. This project is a combined effort that is looking to update nine Transit Development Plans (TDPs) for Kern County transit agencies as well as the Coordinated Human Services Transportation Plan. The City of Ridgecrest TDP is one of the nine TDPs the Nelson\Nygaard team is updating as part of this project.
TDPs are usually updated every five years and are planning tools focusing on short-term transit needs and improvements. The City of Ridgecrest’s previous TDP is now nearly 20 years old and must be updated to reflect the current environment. The goal of the TDP is to develop recommendations to improve service and enhance transit connectivity and access.
This project supports Kern COG’s Regional Transportation Plan, which is a long-term (20- year) plan for Kern County’s entire transportation network. This project is funded by a Caltrans Sustainable Communities grant under the Climate Adaptation Program.
PLAN APPROACH
The project team started by performing an existing conditions assessment. We analyzed existing data to identify potential issues, challenges, and opportunities for improving transit.
We also conducted an interview with city staff and asked transit riders in Ridgecrest for their feedback and insights.
Based on the findings from the existing conditions assessment, Nelson\Nygaard developed recommendations to address the identified issues, challenges, and opportunities. Once recommendations were developed, we conducted a workshop with city staff to review and refine the recommendations. After further refinement, the recommendations were presented to the public for input.
Using input from the public, Nelson\Nygaard then developed a five-year plan to implement the proposed recommendations. We also developed a financial model to help the City understand the costs associated with implementation.
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PURPOSE OF DOCUMENT
This document is the final report for the City of Ridgecrest TDP. Topics by chapter are as follows:
Chapter Title What questions does the chapter answer?
2 Overview of Transit in
Ridgecrest and the
Surrounding Areas
Who operates transit in Ridgecrest?
What local and regional services are available?
3 Existing and Future Market
Conditions
Where do people live and work in Ridgecrest?
What are the population and employment projections for Ridgecrest?
Where are the major activity generators in Ridgecrest and the surrounding areas?
4 Service Evaluation
When is transit provided?
How has transit performed over the past several years? Where is the most demand, and need, for transit service? What is the City’s current zero-emission transition plans? 5 Plan Review
What previous studies and plans have been done for
Ridgecrest?
What is the implementation status of past
recommendations?
6 Public Outreach Overview
and Phase One Outreach
Summary
What outreach was conducted for this project?
What do transit riders think needs to be improved?
7 Recommendations
How were recommendations developed?
How is resiliency considered in these recommendations? What are the recommendations for improving fixed-route and Dial-A-Ride transit?
8 Phase Two Outreach
Summary
What do residents think of the proposed improvements? Which improvements should be prioritized?
Are there any needs that were missed?
9 Improvement Phasing
Which recommendations should be implemented first?
What actions should the City take in each of the five years of the plan to implement the recommendations?
10 Financial Forecast
What is the City of Ridgecrest’s current financial position? What projects and costs are already expected in the future? How will implementing recommendations impact the City of Ridgecrest’s finances, and what is an affordable
implementation plan?
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2 OVERVIEW OF TRANSIT IN
RIDGECREST AND THE
SURROUNDING AREAS
This chapter discusses regional transit and transit operators, including the local services of neighboring towns and intercity transit operators, to help provide a holistic picture of regional transit and access to opportunities.
LOCAL TRANSIT
Ridgecrest Transit operates one deviated fixed route and a Dial-A-Ride service for the general public. The Inyokern deviated fixed-route service travels between Inyokern and Ridgecrest three times daily on weekdays between 6:45 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. The vehicle will deviate off the fixed route within the service area when a passenger makes an advance reservation.
Ridgecrest Dial-A-Ride service is available on weekdays between 6:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. within the city limits. Ridgecrest Transit also offers Dial-A-Ride service to the Randsburg/Johannesburg area on Fridays by reservation only. This service has two trips per day: one in the morning between 8:30 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. and one in the afternoon between 2:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. Passengers can book their ride up to seven days in advance by calling the dispatcher. Same day trips are allowed but not guaranteed.
KERN TRANSIT
Kern Transit operates 12 fixed routes and Dial-A-Ride services in six communities, displayed in Figure 1. Routes 227 and 230 both serve Ridgecrest and Inyokern. Route 227 links Ridgecrest to nearby communities including Onyx, Mountain Mesa, and Lake Isabella. Route 230 links Ridgecrest to California City and Mojave.
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Route 227 has two stops in Inyokern and five stops in Ridgecrest along China Lake Boulevard and at Cerro Coso Community College. Route 230 serves the same stops in Inyokern and Ridgecrest as Route 227 except for Cerro Coso Community College.
Both Routes 227 and 230 operate three trips in each direction on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. In Lake Isabella, riders can transfer to Routes 150 and 220. In Mojave, riders can transfer to Routes 100, 240, and 250. Alignments are shown in Figure 2 and Figure 3.
OTHER LOCAL OPERATORS
Golden Empire Transit in Greater Bakersfield operates 15 fixed routes and Get-A-Lift, a paratransit service for eligible riders with a disability. Fixed-route service operates in the City of Bakersfield with varying service hours depending on the route. Get-A-Lift is a shared-ride, curb-to-curb service operating in the same service area as the fixed-route system. The service operates seven days a week, with trips as early as 6:30 a.m. and as late as 7:30 p.m. Golden Empire Transit service can be accessed via a connection on Kern Transit.
The City of California City operates a Dial-A-Ride service for all riders within the urbanized area of the city limits. The service is available on weekdays from 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Within the Rancho Estates and Wonder Acres neighborhoods, the service operates between 9:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. California City Dial-A-Ride service can be accessed from Ridgecrest via a connection on Kern Transit.
Antelope Valley Transit operates 15 local, fixed routes as well as commuter, school, and Dial-A-Ride service in Lancaster and Palmdale. Most routes begin service at 5:00 a.m. and end service between 8:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. Routes 50, 51, and 52 offer deviations upon request, and the Dial-A-Ride provides curb-to-curb service for rural and urban residents up to the county line at Avenue A, just south of Rosamond. Dial-A-Ride service begins at 5:00 a.m. on weekdays, 6:00 a.m. on Saturdays, and 7:00 a.m. on Sundays, ending at 8:00 p.m. all days. Antelope Valley Transit service can be accessed from Ridgecrest via a connection on Kern Transit or Eastern Sierra Transit.
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Figure 1 Transit Network in Kern County
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Figure 2 Kern Transit Route 230 Alignment
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Figure 3 Kern Transit Route 227 Alignment
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INTERCITY OPERATORS
Several intercity agencies operate in Kern County. Eastern Sierra Transit Authority (ESTA), Amtrak, and Amtrak Thruway all operate in Southern California with stops in Kern County.
The routes and stops of these intercity services are shown in Figure 4. Metrolink operates only in Los Angeles County but is served by Kern Transit and ESTA. ESTA is the only intercity operator who serves the Ridgecrest area, via the Mammoth Lakes-Lancaster (395 South) route.
Eastern Sierra Transit Authority
Eastern Sierra Transit Authority (ESTA) operates a route between Lancaster and Mammoth Lakes, with two stops in Kern County at Inyokern and Mojave. Depending on the length of travel, fares on this ESTA route range from $2 to $39. On this route, discount fares are available for riders ages 60 and older, individuals with disabilities, and youth under the age of
16. For a trip between Mojave and Inyokern, the regular adult fare (age 16 to 60) is $3.00, and the reduced fare is $2.00. Passengers must make reservations before midnight Pacific Time on the day of travel. Walk-on seating is also available but not guaranteed.
Amtrak
In Kern County, Amtrak has rail stations in Bakersfield and Wasco. Amtrak’s San Joaquins route operates between the San Francisco Bay Area, Sacramento Valley, and Bakersfield. The duration of the full route is 6 hours and 15 minutes long, with multiple departures available daily. Amtrak fares depend on time, destination, and fare class, such as coach or business class.
Amtrak Thruway
Amtrak Thruway is a bus service providing connections from Amtrak rail stations to areas without passenger rail service. Amtrak Thruway routes connect Bakersfield to points south (Santa Clarita, Burbank, and Los Angeles), and points east (Tehachapi, Mojave, Barstow, and Las Vegas, NV). Amtrak Thruway fares depend on time and destination.
Metrolink
Metrolink is the Los Angeles regional rail system. The Antelope Valley Line begins in Lancaster. Trains operate hourly in the peak direction (to LA in the morning, from LA in the afternoon). There is less frequent service during the off-peak on weekdays and on weekends.
Trains take approximately two hours to reach Los Angeles Union Station.
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Figure 4 Intercity Transit Routes in Kern County
Source: Amtrak, ESTA, 2025
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3 EXISTING AND FUTURE
MARKET CONDITIONS
This chapter reviews key demographic, employment, and activity centers, including a discussion of transit propensity for the region. Unless otherwise noted, demographic and employment data are from the United States Census Bureau and reported for Kern County. Other notable data sources include the California Department of Finance and Kern COG.
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POPULATION
Population Density
Ridgecrest has several pockets of moderate population density as shown in Figure 5, located along China Lake Boulevard. These areas are served by Ridgecrest Transit’s deviated fixed route and Dial-A-Ride, as well as Kern Transit’s fixed routes.
Areas with higher population density are more likely to support transit because there are simply more people to use it. Population densities of over 15 people per acre are recommended for fixed-route transit, and densities between two and 15 people per acre are appropriate for on-demand transit, like Dial-A-Ride service. Densities below two people per acre are difficult to serve with any kind of transit and may be more appropriate for services like vanpool or carpool.
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Figure 5 City of Ridgecrest Population Density
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Population Projections
Kern County’s population has steadily increased from 751,000 in 2005 to 924,000 in 2025, a 23% increase. Ridgecrest saw modest growth between 2005 and 2025, up approximately 6%.
A breakdown for Ridgecrest and Kern County overall is shown in Figure 6.
Figure 6 Kern County Historical Population Growth 2005 to 2025 Kern County
% Change in
Population
(2005–2025)
Population
Growth
(2005–2025) 2005 2010 2015 2020 2025
Ridgecrest 6.0% 1,600 26,800 27,500 27,700 27,800 28,400 County Total 23.0% 173,000 751,000 837,100 873,500 907,400 924,000 Source: California Department of Finance, Population Estimates for Cities, Counties, and the State Looking ahead, Kern County’s population is expected to continue growing between 2024 and 2050. Figure 7 shows projected population growth by regional subarea in Kern County (see Figure 8 on how regional subareas were defined). Greater Ridgecrest is expected to continue growing slower than the county as a whole.
Figure 7 Population Forecast by Regional Subarea: 2024 to 2050 Regional Subarea 2024 2029 2050
Estimated
Pop. Growth
(2024–2050)
Estimated %
Pop. Growth
(2024–2050)
Greater Ridgecrest 35,000 35,500 36,700 1,700 4.9%
Countywide Total 890,500 922,200 998,300 107,800 12.1%
Source: Kern COG 2024 to 2050 Growth Forecast Update
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Figure 8 Kern COG Regional Subareas Definitions
Source: Kern COG 2024 to 2050 Growth Forecast Update
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DEMOGRAPHIC ANALYSIS
The demographic factors illustrated in the following maps provide an indication of potential transit demand and vulnerable groups within Ridgecrest and its immediate surroundings. The demographic groups included are:
People of color
Veterans
People with disabilities
Older adults (age 65 and above)
Younger adults (age 18 to 24)
People in poverty
People with limited English proficiency
Zero vehicle households
Some of these groups were also included in a transit propensity analysis, which identifies demographics which have a higher-than-average tendency to use transit and creates a composite index identifying where transit demand is strongest.
The results of this transit propensity analysis are discussed in Chapter 4, but the underlying data is displayed here to provide background information.
Demographic maps produced showing the entirety of Kern County are included in Appendix A.
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People of Color
Based on census data examined by the project team, people of color are more likely to use transit than their white peers. Figure 9 shows areas around Ridgecrest have varying percentages of people of color, with most census block groups exceeding 20% people of color. This is slightly lower compared to most areas in Kern County, which exceed 35% people of color.
Figure 9 City of Ridgecrest Proportion of People of Color Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Final Report
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Veterans
Transportation is critical for veterans to access medical care, government services, and other essential services. There are high percentages of veterans throughout the region, shown in Figure 10, likely due to the presence of Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake. The percentage is highest in the southeast corner of the city, but this neighborhood is only served by Ridgecrest Transit Dial-A-Ride. Other areas with large proportions of veterans have access to fixed-route or deviated fixed-route transit provided by Kern Transit and Ridgecrest Transit. The nearest Veterans Affairs (VA) hospital is in Bakersfield, which could be difficult to access due to the lack of direct transit options and the limited daily trips provided by Kern Transit.
Figure 10 City of Ridgecrest Proportion of Veterans
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People with Disabilities
People with disabilities may be more likely to rely on transit, paratransit, and human services transportation to meet their transportation needs and maintain an independent lifestyle.
Figure 11 shows the percentage of people with disabilities in Ridgecrest. There are some areas within Ridgecrest city limits that have a higher proportion of people with disabilities.
Those living in Ridgecrest have access to Dial-A-Ride and in some cases fixed-route or deviated fixed-route service. Inyokern also has a high proportion of people with disabilities.
They are served by the Inyokern deviated fixed-route and ESTA and Kern Transit fixed routes.
Some Kern Transit bus stops along China Lake Boulevard, including at the Ridgecrest Regional Hospital and at Coso Avenue, are not located near a signalized intersection, which can make it challenging for all riders, including people with disabilities, to access them safely.
Figure 11 City of Ridgecrest Proportion of People with Disabilities Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Final Report
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Older Adult Populations
Older adults (ages 65 and older) may no longer be comfortable driving or may not be able to drive. Transit, paratransit, and human service transportation providers can allow older adults to live independently, access healthcare, and meet their essential needs. The highest concentration of older adults in Ridgecrest is primarily along China Lake Boulevard, where they are served by Kern Transit and Ridgecrest Transit services, as shown in Figure 12.
Inyokern also has a high proportion of older adults, and has service from ESTA, Ridgecrest Transit, and Kern Transit.
Figure 12 City of Ridgecrest Proportion of Older Adults Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Final Report
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Young Adults (18-24)
Young adults (ages 18-24) may be enrolled in college, the armed forces, or just entering the workforce, and may not be able to afford their own personal vehicle. Based on census data, young adults are more likely to ride transit compared to their older peers. As seen in Figure 13, the only areas of Ridgecrest with high percentages of young adults are north of Inyokern Road, the location of Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake. There is no transit service onto the military base.
Figure 13 City of Ridgecrest Proportion of Young Adults Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Final Report
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People in Poverty
Based on census data examined by the project team, people in poverty (below the Federal Poverty Level) are more likely to take transit in Kern County. The Federal Poverty Level is defined at a national scale and calculated by household. The exact income threshold varies by household size, number of people over the age of 65, and number of children. As of 2024, it was $25,249 for a family of three with one child.1 More information about how the census Bureau measures poverty can be found here: How the Census Bureau Measures Poverty.
There are some areas with high poverty within Ridgecrest, mainly along China Lake Boulevard, and to the west outside the city limits, near Highway 395, as shown in Figure 14.
High concentration areas along Inyokern Road and China Lake Boulevard have fixed-route and deviated fixed-route service in addition to Dial-A-Ride service. 1 2024 Poverty Thresholds
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Figure 14 City of Ridgecrest Proportion of People in Poverty Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Final Report
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Limited English Proficiency
People with limited English proficiency (LEP) are potentially more likely to take transit2 and may have difficulty accessing transit and participating in community outreach events. In communities where LEP is high, special language accommodations may be needed. There are only a few small areas with elevated percentages of people with limited English proficiency in Ridgecrest, notably southeast of China Lake Boulevard and Bowman Road, shown in Figure
15. These areas are generally covered by both Kern Transit fixed route and Ridgecrest Transit’s deviated fixed-route and Dial-A-Ride service. 2 Using Census Data for Transportation Applications, 2013, pg. 63.
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Figure 15 City of Ridgecrest Proportion of People with Limited English Proficiency Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Final Report
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Zero Vehicle Households
Based on census data examined by the project team, households without a vehicle are more likely to use and rely on transit. As seen in Figure 16, zero-vehicle households are concentrated east of China Lake Boulevard and south of Bowman Road and are served by Kern Transit fixed route and Ridgecrest Transit deviated fixed-route and Dial-A-Ride service.
Figure 16 City of Ridgecrest Proportion of Households with Zero Vehicles Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Final Report
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EMPLOYMENT
Employment Density
Employment density is a key indicator of where there is a market for transit and the level of service that the market could support. Similar to population density, the more jobs in an area, the greater the potential demand for transit. Employment densities of over 10 people per acre are recommended for fixed-route transit, and densities between two and 10 people per acre are appropriate for fixed-route and/or on-demand transit, like Ridgecrest Transit’s deviated fixed route. Densities below two people per acre are difficult to serve with any kind of transit and may be more appropriate for services like vanpool or carpool.
Employment in Ridgecrest is concentrated along China Lake Boulevard, shown in Figure 17.
The area with the highest concentration of employment is near Ridgecrest Regional Hospital.
This area is served by Kern Transit’s fixed route and Ridgecrest Transit’s deviated fixed route.
Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake employment and population statistics are not included in census data.
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Figure 17 City of Ridgecrest Employment Density
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Low-Wage Job Density
People who work low-wage jobs are less likely to be able to afford to own and maintain a car and are more likely to rely on public transportation. Like employment density, a high number of low-wage jobs concentrated in one area demonstrates a potential market for transit. As seen in Figure 18, Ridgecrest does not have any areas with high concentrations of lowincome jobs. Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake employment and population statistics are not included in census data.
Figure 18 City of Ridgecrest Low-Wage Employment Density Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Final Report
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Projected Employment Growth
Projected employment growth indicates how transit demand may increase in the future.
Within Greater Ridgecrest, employment growth is projected to increase 27.2% over the next 25 years, a faster rate than Bakersfield or the county as a whole.
Figure 19 Projected Employment Growth in Kern County
Regional Subarea 2024 2029 2050
Estimated
Job Growth
from 2024 to
2050
Estimated %
Job Growth
from 2024 to
2050
Greater Ridgecrest 9,200 9,700 11,700 2,500 27.2%
Metro Bakersfield Area 234,100 240,900 270,000 35,900 15.3% Countywide Total 351,600 366,400 430,000 78,400 22.3%
Source: Kern COG 2024 to 2050 Growth Forecast Update
Major Employers
Like employment and job density, the location of major employers can be a generator of transit demand based on employment and services provided. Major employers are more likely to have a large number of employees who can be served by transit. Major employers are the 25 largest employers in Kern County and have greater than 500 employees each.
As detailed in Figure 20 and Figure 21, there are two major employers within Greater Ridgecrest: Ridgecrest Regional Hospital and Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake (Major employer information was sourced from the State of California rather than LEHD).
Kern Transit Routes 227 and 230, and Ridgecrest Transit’s deviated fixed route and Dial-ARide serve the hospital, but there is no service either to or within the military base. The limited number of daily Kern Transit trips may impact access to these jobs for people living outside the city.
Robertson’s Ready Mix, another major employer, is located in California City and is accessible via Kern Transit Route 230, but the limited number of daily Kern Transit trips may impact access to these jobs for residents living in Ridgecrest.
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Figure 20 Major Employers in Kern County
Source: State of California Employment Development Department, 2025 Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Final Report
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Figure 21 Major Employers in Kern County
Major Employer Identifier
(See Figure 20) Major Employer Location Number of Employees 1 Paramount Farms Huller 4 Lost Hills 500–999
2 Wasco State Prison Fire
Department Wasco 1,000–4,999
3 California Department
Correctional Institution Delano 1,000–4,999
4 Wonderful Citrus, LLC Delano 500–999
5 Marko Zaninovich, Inc. McFarland 1,000–4,999
6 Amazon Fulfillment Center
- Shafter Shafter ~1,000
7 Frito-Lay Incorporated Bakersfield 500–999
8 Nabors CompletionProduction Bakersfield 1,000–4,999
9 Vasinda Investments, Inc. Bakersfield 500–999
10 Chevron Corporation Bakersfield 1,000–4,999
11 Kern High School District Bakersfield 1,000–4,999
12 Community Action
Partnership Bakersfield 500–999
13 Adventist Health
Bakersfield Bakersfield 1,000–4,999
14 Dignity Health Memorial
Hospital Bakersfield 1,000–4,999
15 Amazon Fulfillment Center
– Bakersfield Bakersfield ~2,000
16 Foster Care Human
Services Bakersfield 1,000–4,999
17 Bolthouse Farms Bakersfield 1,000–4,999
18 Grimmway Farms Arvin 1,000–4,999
19 Sun Pacific Bakersfield 500–999
20 California Correctional
Institute Tehachapi 1,000–4,999
21 Robertson’s Ready Mix California City 1,000–4,999
22 Edwards Air Force Base
and Family Readiness
Center
Edwards 10,000+
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Major Employer Identifier
(See Figure 20) Major Employer Location Number of Employees 23 NASA/Armstrong Flight
Research Edwards 1,000–4,999
24 Ridgecrest Regional
Hospital Ridgecrest 500–999
25 Naval Air Weapons
Station China Lake Ridgecrest 5,000–9,999
Source: State of California Employment Development Department, 2025; 23ABC News, “Amazon Fulfillment Center coming to Shafter, will create 1,000 new jobs,” 2021; 23ABC News, “Amazon Fulfillment Center opens in Bakersfield,” 2020
MAJOR ACTIVITY GENERATORS
Major activity generators, such as hospitals, healthcare facilities, schools, and grocery stores can produce large numbers of both driving and transit trips and indicate where people might travel via transit. Providing transit services to these destinations can connect people in the community to essential services, employment, and education. Major activity generators in this report include:
Affordable, low-income, mobility-impaired, and senior housing Grocery stores
Medical facilities
Educational institutions
Correctional institutions
Affordable, Low-Income, Mobility-Impaired,
and Senior Housing
The Kern Housing Authority provided an inventory of affordable, low-income, mobilityimpaired (defined as housing for people with disabilities), and senior housing (public housing) for the previous Coordinated Human Services Transportation Plan. These housing locations are shown in Figure 22. Public housing options are concentrated in Metro Bakersfield and along Kern Transit and other regional transit routes. There are three development clusters in Ridgecrest near N El Prado Street and W Ward Avenue, N Gold Canyon Street and Nadeau Street, and S Downs Street and W Church Avenue. All of these housing developments are beyond a quarter mile from Kern Transit, but they are all served by Ridgecrest Transit Dial-A-Ride. These housing developments may be more likely to have populations who are in poverty or do not have access to a vehicle.
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Figure 22 Public Housing in Kern County
Source: Kern Housing Authority
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Grocery Stores
Grocery stores and other fresh-food stores are located throughout Kern County in incorporated areas. Figure 23 shows there are several options in Ridgecrest providing residents with access to fresh food and vegetables within the Kern Transit fixed route and Ridgecrest Transit deviated fixed-route and Dial-A-Ride service area. People who live in unincorporated or rural areas may have to travel farther to access these stores.
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Figure 23 Grocery Stores in Kern County
Source: Nelson\Nygaard
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Medical Facilities
Medical facilities include hospitals, dialysis centers, VA clinics and hospitals, urgent care facilities, and other medical facilities such as medical plazas and doctor’s offices. These are common locations for human service and non-emergency medical transportation providers.
Figure 24 shows medical facilities in Kern County, including Ridgecrest Regional Hospital. The Regional Hospital offers several clinics and is accessible via Kern Transit’s fixed routes, and Ridgecrest Transit’s deviated fixed route and Dial-A-Ride. The nearest VA hospital is in Bakersfield, requiring travel via Kern Transit Routes 230 and 100 (connection in Mojave), or Routes 227 and 150 (connection in Lake Isabella).
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Figure 24 Medical Facilities in Kern County
Source: Nelson\Nygaard
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Educational Institutions
Educational institutions that are typically transit generators include middle schools and high schools as well as colleges, universities, and community colleges. Middle schools and high schools are scattered throughout Kern County. Every incorporated jurisdiction has at least one middle school and high school, including Ridgecrest.
Figure 25 illustrates schools in Kern County. Cerro Coso Community College is in Ridgecrest at the end of Kern Transit Route 227. Two high schools and two middle schools are accessible via Ridgecrest Transit Dial-A-Ride and the deviated fixed route, as well as Kern Transit Routes 227 and 230, although there may be a longer walk (up to 10 minutes) to a Kern Transit bus stop.
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Figure 25 Schools in Kern County
Source: Nelson\Nygaard
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Prisons and Correctional Facilities
Prisons and correctional facilities in Kern County are major employers and drive demand for transit for their employees. They can also be a destination for friends and family visiting those who are incarcerated. The majority of prisons and correctional facilities in Kern County are located on Highway 99 in northern Kern County, including Bakersfield and areas north of Bakersfield. As seen in Figure 26, there are no correctional facilities in or near Ridgecrest.
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Figure 26 Prisons and Correctional Facilities in Kern County Source: Nelson\Nygaard
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4 SERVICE EVALUATION
This chapter reviews the performance of local transit over the past several years and summarizes Ridgecrest’s deviated fixedroute and Dial-A-Ride service in greater detail, covering items like organization, transit need analysis, fleet and facilities, and more.
LOCAL SERVICE SUMMARY
Ridgecrest Transit operates one deviated fixed-route and a Dial-A-Ride service for the general public.
The Inyokern deviated fixed-route service travels between Inyokern and Ridgecrest three times daily on weekdays between 6:45 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. The vehicle will deviate off the fixed route anywhere within the Dial-A-Ride service area when a passenger makes an advance reservation.
Ridgecrest Dial-A-Ride service is available on weekdays between 6:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. within the city limits. Ridgecrest Transit also offers Dial-A-Ride service to the Randsburg/Johannesburg area on Fridays by reservation only. This service has two trips per day: one in the morning between 8:30 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. and one in the afternoon between 2:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. Passengers can
book their ride up to seven days in advance
by calling the dispatcher. Same day trips
are allowed but not guaranteed.
The deviated fixed-route and Dial-A-Ride
service area are shown in Figure 27 along
with Kern Transit Routes 227 and 230 and
Eastern Sierra Transit Authority (ESTA)
Route 395, which connect with Ridgecrest
Transit.
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Figure 27 Ridgecrest Transit System Overview
Source: City of Ridgecrest and Nelson\Nygaard, 2025
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Organization
Ridgecrest Transit is overseen by the Transit Services Coordinator, with oversight from the City Manager and the Public Works Director. However, the Transit Services Coordinator left the City in October 2024, and the position has since been delegated into two independent positions: the Operations Manager and Grants Coordinator/Dispatcher. As of May 2025, the Public Works Director was in the process of updating the organizational chart related to transit.
The Public Works Director also attends Kern COG Transportation Technical Advisory Committee and Social Service Technical Advisory Committee meetings. The City has five fulltime drivers and has ongoing openings for part-time drivers.
Ridgecrest Transit works with Kern COG and Caltrans to secure funding and satisfy reporting requirements. The City is a member of the California Association for Coordinated Transportation (CalACT), which provides access to training and industry networking opportunities. The Ridgecrest City Council is the governing body of the City’s transit service.
Ridgecrest Transit’s organizational structure is shown in Figure 28.
Kern COG is responsible for transit planning for the City of Ridgecrest through the periodic development of a Transportation Development Plan, the most recent of which was published in 2007.
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Figure 28 City of Ridgecrest Organizational Chart
Source: City of Ridgecrest, 2025
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Span of Service
Figure 29 summarizes Ridgecrest Transit’s span of service for the deviated fixed-route and Dial-A-Ride service. All service operates Monday through Friday with the exception of the Randsburg/Johannesburg Dial-A-Ride, which operates two trips only on Fridays.
Dial-A-Ride service is by reservation only. Passengers must call one hour before their desired pick-up time to reserve a ride. Reservations up to seven days in advance are allowed.
Friday service to Randsburg/Johannesburg has two designated trip times, while the Dial-ARide service in Ridgecrest city limits has no designated trip times.
Figure 29 also shows the number of daily trips made by the deviated fixed-route. The Inyokern deviated fixed route makes three round trips daily on weekdays.
Figure 29 Ridgecrest Transit Service Span
Service Type Route Name Weekday
Round Trips
Weekday Service
Hours
Saturday
Service Hours
Sunday
Service Hours
Deviated Fixed
Route Inyokern 3 6:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. No service No service Dial-A-Ride Ridgecrest
Service By reservation 6:45 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. No service No service Dial-A-Ride Randsburg/
Johannesburg
2 (Fridays only,
by reservation)
8:30 a.m., 2:00 p.m.
(Fridays only) No service No service
Source: Ridgecrest Transit, May 2025
Fares
Effective November 1, 2024, and until further notice, all rides on Ridgecrest Transit are farefree.
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HISTORICAL TRENDS
This section analyzes ridership, revenue hours, productivity, operations and maintenance costs, and farebox recovery values from 2015 to 2023, using data from the National Transit Database (NTD).
Notably, Ridgecrest Transit previously operated a fixed-route service within the city of Ridgecrest. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the fixed-route service was converted to Dial-ARide. Ridgecrest Transit has noted they are happy with this change, as it allows for a one-seat ride anywhere within the city limits (i.e., no transfers between routes like before) and they do not foresee going back to fixed-route service.
Data Notice: The intent of this section is to provide a historical reference of where Ridgecrest Transit has been and to help frame the discussion of how the agency evolved over time. Potential data issues have been identified as follows:
NTD reported data may be missing or questionable for some metrics due to past data reporting issues. In cases where NTD data was unavailable, data from the California State Controller was used if available. However, it should be recognized that these sources may not be exactly comparable due to potentially different methodologies.
While Ridgecrest Transit has historically operated fixed route and demand response services, the NTD data for these modes is sporadic and missing in some years. Since it is impossible to build a historical trend for each of these modes, the historical data is aggregated to the system level. This sometimes involved adding demand response data from the California State Controller with fixed route data from NTD. In cases where data seems irregular or incorrect, we have denoted that in the charts using hatched lines. Data concerns are also included in the text.
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Ridership
Systemwide ridership, as shown in Figure 30, was trending downward pre-pandemic, going from 18,000 in 2014 to 15,000 in 2019, and declined substantially after 2020 to a low of under 5,000 in 2022. In 2023, ridership recovered substantially, more than doubling from the previous year to over 10,000, 70% of the 2019 baseline.
Figure 30 Ridgecrest Transit Ridership for System
Source: National Transit Database (NTD), 2014-2023, California State Controller, 2017, 2019-2021 17,680
14,339
13,629
16,414
12,151
14,776
10,459
6,722
4,980
10,326
0 2,000
4,000
6,000
8,000
10,000
12,000
14,000
16,000
18,000
20,000
2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023
Unlinked Passenger Trips
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Revenue Hours
Revenue hours are measured by the amount of time vehicles are in service and either transporting passengers or waiting for a ride request. Revenue hours for the system are shown in Figure 31, and were mostly stable at just over 8,000 hours per year pre-pandemic, except for a significant increase in 2017, which may be a data error. Revenue hours declined substantially after 2019 but increased from a low of under 2,000 in 2022 to over 4,000 in 2023.
Figure 31 Ridgecrest Transit Systemwide Revenue Hours
Source: National Transit Database (NTD), 2014-2023, California State Controller, 2017, 2019-2021 Note: 2017 data hatched due to high revenue hours compared to surrounding years, which may be an error. 8,285 8,268 8,308
20,361
7,129
9,286
5,831
1,793 1,663
4,383
0 5,000
10,000
15,000
20,000
25,000
2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023
Vehicle Revenue Hours
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Productivity
Due to the substantial decrease in revenue hours during the pandemic, productivity (passengers per revenue hour) actually increased after 2019, going from 1.6 that year to 3.7 in 2021, before dropping to 2.4 in 2023 as revenue hours increased again. Productivity for the system is shown in Figure 32.
Figure 32 Ridgecrest Transit Systemwide Productivity (Riders per Revenue Hour) Source: National Transit Database (NTD), 2014-2023, California State Controller, 2017, 2019-2021.
Note: 2017 data hatched due to low productivity compared to surrounding years, which may be an error.
What is Productivity?
Productivity measures the number of passengers served per revenue hour of operation.
High productivity means service is being provided efficiently and at a lower cost per passenger.
For on-demand transit like Dial-A-Ride, productivity is computed as the number of passengers divided by all the hours that the driver is ready and able to provide service.
Five passengers per revenue hour is considered good for on-demand service. Ten passengers per revenue hour is very high for on-demand service and indicates that fixedroute service should be considered to meet some or all of the demand.
2.1 1.7 1.6
0.8 1.7
1.6 1.8
3.7 3.0
2.4 0.0
0.5 1.0
1.5 2.0
2.5 3.0
3.5 4.0
2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023
Passsengers per Revenue Hour
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Operations and Maintenance Cost
Total operating costs for Ridgecrest Transit are shown in Figure 33. These amounts have not been adjusted for inflation and have been mostly stable at around $1 million annually. In the last year of pre-pandemic operations, spending was about $910,000, while in 2023 it had increased to $1.2 million. This was despite a substantial reduction in the number of service hours offered. 2017 and 2018 were flagged for possible data issues due to the large differences in operating cost compared to the preceding and following years.
Figure 33 Ridgecrest Transit Systemwide Operations & Maintenance (O&M) Cost Source: National Transit Database (NTD), 2014-2023
Note: 2017 and 2018 data hatched due to abnormal variation compared to surrounding years, which may be an error.
$998,749
$939,128
$1,158,448
$1,474,068
$592,710
$910,030
$1,198,663
$1,169,174
$1,357,413
$1,201,880
$0
$200,000
$400,000
$600,000
$800,000
$1,000,000
$1,200,000
$1,400,000
$1,600,000
2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023
Operating Expense
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Cost per Trip
Cost per trip, shown in Figure 34, has increased substantially following the onset of the pandemic from $62 per trip in 2019 to as high as $174 per trip in 2021 (assuming the 2022 data is a potential error). Costs fell to $116 per trip in 2023, but was still 87% higher than in 2019.
Figure 34 Ridgecrest Transit Systemwide O&M Cost per Trip Source: National Transit Database (NTD), 2014-2023, California State Controller, 2017, 2019-2021 Note: 2022 data hatched due to high costs per trip compared to surrounding years which may be an error. 2017 and 2018 data also hatched due to possible error with the O&M cost data. $56 $65
$85 $90
$49
$62
$115
$174
$273
$116
$0
$50
$100
$150
$200
$250
$300
2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023
Expense per Passenger Trip
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Cost per Revenue Hour
Ridgecrest Transit’s cost per revenue hour for all services has increased even more substantially than its cost per trip, going from $98 in 2019 to $274 in 2023. These cost levels, shown in Figure 35, particularly for 2021 and 2022, are difficult to explain and may be the result of missing or incorrect data. However, the trend of rising cost per hour likely still holds.
Figure 35 Ridgecrest Transit Systemwide O&M Cost per Revenue Hour Source: National Transit Database (NTD), 2014-2023, California State Controller, 2017, 2019-2021 Note: 2021 and 2022 data hatched due to high costs per revenue hour compared to surrounding years, which may be an error. 2017 and 2018 data also hatched due to possible error with the O&M cost data. $121 $114 $139
$72 $83 $98
$206
$652
$816
$274
$0
$100
$200
$300
$400
$500
$600
$700
$800
$900
2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023
Expense per Revenue Hour
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Farebox Recovery
Ridgecrest Transit maintained the same fare between 2015 and 2024. Since 2024, they have gone fare free, using funding from the Low Carbon Transit Operations Program (LCTOP) to replace farebox income. Income from farebox revenue declined as a percentage of operating costs over time, as Figure 36 shows, even before Ridgecrest Transit went fare free. In 2019, farebox recovery was 3.7%, which declined to 2.1% in 2022. Fare revenue data for 2023 was not available.
Figure 36 Ridgecrest Transit Farebox Recovery for System Source: National Transit Database (NTD), 2014-2022
Note: 2017 and 2018 data hatched due to abnormal variation compared to surrounding years, which may be an error.
4.2% 4.2%
2.9%
2.5%
5.6%
3.7%
2.4%
0.8%
2.1%
0%
1%
2%
3%
4%
5%
6%
2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023
Farebox Recovery
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CURRENT PERFORMANCE
System Ridership
Systemwide ridership for 2024 is shown in Figure 37. Ridership was consistent month-tomonth at around 900 trips, with a slight downward trend from the beginning of the year to the end.
Figure 37 Systemwide Ridership by Month for Ridgecrest Transit Source: City of Ridgecrest, 2024
905 901
850
966
865
913
813
889
847
784
858
663
0 200
400
600
800
1000
1200
Unlinked Passenger Trips
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Figure 38 shows the average daily ridership by day of the week. Daily ridership for Ridgecrest Transit peaks on Thursdays, with 35 daily riders, using February 2025 as a representative month. Other weekdays averaged between 20 and 27 daily riders, with no service operated on weekends. Friday ridership is lower on average even including the Friday-only service to Randsburg and Johannesburg.
Figure 38 Ridership by Day of Week for Ridgecrest Transit Source: City of Ridgecrest, February 2025
23.0 26.5 26.0
35.0 19.5
0 5
10 15
20 25
30 35
40 Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
Unlinked Passenger Trips
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Productivity
Revenue hours data was not available for any month in 2024, and as such no productivity data is available. Daily productivity for February 2025 is shown in Figure 39. Weekday productivity is consistent at just above five riders per revenue hour, except on Thursdays, which have a higher productivity of nearly seven riders per revenue hour. These productivity numbers are much higher than they have been historically for Ridgecrest Transit, and may be due in part to the transition from fixed-route service in Ridgecrest city limits to general public demand response.
Figure 39 Productivity by Day of Week for Ridgecrest Transit (February 2025) Source: City of Ridgecrest, February 2025
On-Time Performance
Ridgecrest Transit was unable to track on-time performance (OTP) using their previous scheduling software. Since updating to a new scheduling software in May 2025, they have begun to track OTP. Per Ridgecrest Transit, OTP is generally high.
5.4 5.2 5.2
6.7 5.5
0 1
2 3
4 5
6 7
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
Passengers per Revenue Hour
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TRANSFERS TO OTHER PROVIDERS
Transfers to other providers are not tracker, however Ridgecrest Transit’s deviated fixedroute service makes three daily trips to the Inyokern Transfer Hub, where passengers can make timed transfers to the Eastern Sierra Transit Authority’s (ESTA) service going to Mammoth Lake and the Lancaster Metrolink station, which makes one daily trip in each direction.
There is no cost to transfer between Ridgecrest Transit’s different services, as both their deviated fixed-route and Dial-A-Ride services are fare free.
Kern Transit Route 227 (operating between Lake Isabella and Ridgecrest) and Route 230 (operating between Ridgecrest and Mojave) have stops in both Inyokern and Ridgecrest where riders can transfer to and from Ridgecrest Transit.
TRANSIT NEED ANALYSIS
Using select demographic and socioeconomic data can help determine the overall transit demand for a given area. Areas of higher demand are more likely to generate ridership and support transit service that is provided.
Nelson\Nygaard’s analysis utilized a composite index of demographic groups that are more likely to ride transit, also known as transit propensity. The groups included in the index are:
People of Color
Zero Vehicle Households
Low-income individuals
Veterans
People with disabilities
Older adults (age 65 and above)
Young adults (age 18 to 24)
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As shown in Figure 40, the highest transit demand area is in the core of the city, with relatively low transit demand within the rest of the city limits. However, since jobs at the military base are not included in LEHD data some transit demand is unaccounted for. The higher transit demand areas are served by both the deviated fixed route and the Dial-A-Ride service areas.
Figure 40 Transit Propensity in the City of Ridgecrest
Source: ACS 2023 5-Year Estimates
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EXPENSES AND REVENUES
Aside from Kern Transit, Ridgecrest Transit spent the most financial resources of the nine TDP agencies in Kern County. However, Ridgecrest Transit generated the most revenue of all nine TDP agencies, including Kern Transit. This was accomplished largely through state- and federally-funded grant programs. Ridgecrest Transit’s expenses are shown in Figure 41 and their revenues in Figure 42.
Figure 41 Ridgecrest Transit Expenses – FY 2024
Category Subcategory Amount
Operating Expenses Salaries and Wages $531,803.00
Fringe Benefits $213,470.00
Services $929,786.00
Materials and Supplies $13,572.00
Depreciation $46,480.00
Other Operating Expenses ($419,080.00)
Total $1,316,031.00
Source: Ridgecrest – Transit Operator Financial Transactions Report (FY 2024) Figure 42 Ridgecrest Transit Revenues – FY 2024
Category Subcategory Amount
Operating Revenues Passenger Fares $39,847.00
Nonoperating Revenues Local Government Funds $314,521.00 State Government Funds $1,850,321.00
Federal Funds $1,156,301.00
Non-added Revenues $8,464.00
Total $3,369,454.00
Source: Ridgecrest – Transit Operator Financial Transactions Report (FY 2024) Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Final Report
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FLEET AND FACILITIES
In total, Ridgecrest Transit has nine revenue vehicles in their fleet, two of which are vans, and the remainder (seven) are cutaway buses. While both vans are within Ridgecrest Transit’s useful life benchmark, only one of the seven cutaway buses are within this benchmark, so it is likely that most of Ridgecrest Transit’s bus fleet will need to be replaced within the next couple of years. Ridgecrest Transit’s fleet roster is shown in Figure 43.
Figure 43 Ridgecrest Transit Fleet Composition
Type Make Model Capacity Mileage* Year Status*
Cutaway
Bus Ford ElDorado Aero Lite 22 138,312 2012 Out of
service
Cutaway
Bus Ford ElDorado Aero Lite 22 118,735 2012 Active
Cutaway
Bus Ford ElDorado Aero Lite 22 129,363 2012 Active
Cutaway
Bus Ford ElDorado Aero Lite 22 121,235 2012 Active
Cutaway
Bus Ford ElDorado Aero Lite 22 118,987 2013 Active
Cutaway
Bus Starcraft Allstar 18 Unknown 2016 Active
Cutaway
Bus Starcraft Allstar 18 80,515 2016 Active
Van Ford Transit 350 EL
Hybrid
9 25,002 2020 Active
Van Ford Transit T350 Electric 9 Entered Service in
12/2024
2020 Active
Van Ford E-Transit 350 9 Delivered December 2025 N/A
Being
integrated
into fleet
*As of end of FY 2024
Source: City of Ridgecrest – Fleet Report
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ZERO-EMISSION TRANSITION PLAN
Most of Ridgecrest Transit’s existing fleet is nearing or has exceeded the FTA’s recommended Default Useful Life Benchmark and will likely need replacement within the next two to three years. While the Ridgecrest Transit has a California Air Resources Board (CARB)-approved zero-emission transition and vehicle replacement plan in place, it expressed concerns associated with the reliability, battery longevity, and charging range of electric vehicles, plus other potential climate-related challenges specific to the area, such as extreme heat.
AGENCY INTERVIEW
As part of the existing conditions assessment for this project, the Nelson\Nygaard team interviewed City of Ridgecrest staff in person the week of May 19, 2025. The intent of these interviews was to allow the project team to ask the agency questions about their operations, including the riders they serve, agency challenges with operating service, desired outcomes and recommendations as part of this planning effort, and questions about the data received.
This was also an opportunity for the project team to tour the agency’s facilities and fleet, as well as see the community in which the agency operates. Below is a summary of what was discussed as working well and what some of the challenges and potential opportunities might be.
What is working well for transit in Ridgecrest?
Strong possibility of additional growth in community with more federal investment in Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake.
New dispatch software has enhanced operational efficiency and improved reporting. Regained post-2020 ridership numbers.
Inyokern Transit Hub was recently upgraded.
Challenges and areas with possible room for improvements Lacking coordination and communication with Kern Transit and ESTA. Staffing challenges associated with recruiting and certification. Electric vehicle transition expectations are unrealistic for the geography and climate.
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KEY TAKEAWAYS
Span of service is limited. Service only operates on weekdays from 6:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for the deviated fixed-route and 6:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. for Dial-A-Ride.
There is no weekend service.
Frequency is limited too. Ridgecrest Transit’s Inyokern deviated fixed route has three daily round trips. The Randsburg/Johannesburg route operates only two oneway trips on Fridays. Ridgecrest Transit has low ridership on Fridays despite additional service to Randsburg and Johannesburg.
Same day reservations are possible with Dial-A-Ride with one hour’s notice. Dial-ARide accepts reservations up to seven days in advance. The pandemic significantly impacted ridership, which is still lower than in 2019.
However, productivity has actually increased despite lower ridership. In November 2024, productivity exceeded five riders per revenue hour on all days with service. Ridgecrest Transit maintained good productivity through the pandemic. For a primarily demand-response service, productivity is still good and is increasing. Cost per trip and per revenue hour are anomalously high in several years, and it is difficult to explain these variances without additional background information. Vehicles will need to be replaced soon. All but one of the cutaway buses have exceeded Ridgecrest Transit’s useful life benchmark and will likely need to be replaced in the next two to three years. The City has a vehicle replacement plan in place.
Nelson\Nygaard’s transit need analysis shows the areas with the highest transit propensity are served by Ridgecrest’s Dial-A-Ride and deviated fixed-route services, and Kern Transit’s fixed-route service.
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5 PLAN REVIEW
This chapter summarizes the document that was reviewed to help provide context of previous planning efforts that are of consequence to transit and specialized transportation in Ridgecrest. The data, strategies, and identified needs from this plan can provide insight into possible persistent gaps and transportation challenges. This plan was produced prior to 2020 and may lack the context and consideration of impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
RIDGECREST 2007 TRANSPORTATION
DEVELOPMENT PLAN
The goal of the 2007 Ridgecrest Transportation Development Plan was to provide recommendations for improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the City’s public transportation service. In 2007, the Ridgecrest Transit System (RTS) had experienced significant losses in ridership over the previous few years. The TDP included a Transit Implementation Plan that outlined recommendations for service improvements.
Recommendations are outlined in Figure 44.
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Figure 44 Recommendations from 2007 Ridgecrest Transportation Development Plan Category Recommendation Implementation Update
Service Plan Restructure service into a flex-route huband-spoke system with demandresponse service.
Implemented – however, during the
pandemic, Ridgecrest Transit converted
the flex-routes within Ridgecrest city
limits to demand response service. The
change was made permanent.
Capital Plan Install bus stops and shelters at key
locations.
No update – unknown if any new
shelters were installed.
Develop a transit facility/transfer station
at the City Administration offices.
Implemented – however, the transit
facilities at City Hall are no longer used
by Ridgecrest Transit fixed-routes.
New and replacement vehicles. Implemented – Ridgecrest Transit has been replacing vehicles as they reach
the end of their useful life.
Install bicycle racks on buses. No update – unclear if implemented.
Source: Ridgecrest Transportation Development Plan, 2007 Kern Council of Governments 66
6 OUTREACH OVERVIEW AND
PHASE ONE SUMMARY
The project team engaged in continuous outreach with the community to ensure the Ridgecrest TDP reflects the input and priorities of Ridgecrest residents. This chapter summarizes the project team’s work with Kern COG and Ridgecrest city staff to conduct and advertise the outreach events and gather input from residents for inclusion in the plan.
There were two phases of community outreach:
Phase One (June–July 2025): Listen and learn about the community’s challenges and aspirations for transit. This phase of outreach involved administering a survey to Ridgecrest Transit riders in person and online.
Phase Two (March 2026): Present potential transit recommendations for feedback.
This phase of outreach involved a virtual public meeting to explain the potential transit recommendations and a virtual survey to gather feedback from Ridgecrest Transit riders about the potential improvements.
This chapter summarizes Phase One of public outreach. The results of Phase Two are presented in Chapter 8.
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PHASE ONE PUBLIC OUTREACH
SUMMARY
Phase One outreach occurred in June and July 2025 and involved all nine agencies in Kern County updating their TDPs. The goals of Phase One outreach were to introduce the TDP and accompanying Coordinated Human Services Transportation Plan (CHSTP) planning processes to the public and collect feedback to inform draft recommendations for each transit agency.
A countywide survey was conducted to gather feedback on transportation needs and challenges.
The project team conducted outreach in Ridgecrest on June 24, 2025, riding the Ridgecrest Dial-A-Ride vehicle and administering a survey to riders. The bilingual (English and Spanish) survey also available online for three weeks. During the ride-along, bilingual outreach staff (fluent in both English and Spanish) connected with six community members. Some riders took the survey, and their results are included in the summary in the next section. No additional comments were received outside of the survey.
The survey asked community members which transit services they use in the county, what concerns they have, and how transit could be improved. Respondents who said they do not currently ride transit were asked why they do not and what improvements would encourage them to take transit. The survey also collected optional demographic information on age, ZIP code, race/ethnicity, and household income.
PHASE ONE RIDGECREST SURVEY
RESULTS
Three people who responded to the countywide survey indicated they most frequently rode Ridgecrest Transit. The results from these individuals are summarized in this section. Due to the small sample size, this section touches on broader themes from the responses. No demographics data from the survey is reported due to the small sample size.
Rider Satisfaction
Of the three surveyed riders, two respondents said they are somewhat unhappy with Ridgecrest Transit. One respondent said they are very happy with the service.
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Transit Concerns and Improvements
When asked what concerns respondents have with Ridgecrest Transit, only one respondent noted a concern, which was “transit does not run when I need it to.” Two respondents said they have no concerns with Ridgecrest Transit service.
There was one write-in comment for concerns with Ridgecrest Transit, which was:
“No weekend/holiday service”
Respondents were asked an optional, open-ended question about what one improvement to transportation would help them, as well as if they have any other suggestions or comments.
The question received one written response:
“1. Bus from Ridgecrest to Mojave should align with Amtrak bus to Bakersfield. 2.
Amtrak should reinstate 1:00 pm bus Mojave to Bakersfield train.” Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Final Report
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7 RECOMMENDATIONS
Recommendations are specific actions that the City of Ridgecrest can take to address current challenges and transportation needs in the community. This chapter lists all potential
recommendations that can be implemented.
The recommendations in this chapter were developed based on the existing conditions analysis conducted earlier in the project, which included feedback from the public via a survey, discussions with city staff, and industry best practices. These recommendations were discussed with Ridgecrest Transit in a virtual workshop. Recommendations involving Kern Transit were discussed separately via email and phone.
The feedback received during the workshop was used to refine the recommendations before presentation to the public for their input. Phase Two outreach efforts, summarized in Chapter 8, did not yield any feedback that required changes to the recommendations that were developed. Recognizing there are limited financial resources, Chapter 9 provides an implementation plan that would phase improvements across the five-year horizon of this plan.
Eleven different recommendations are presented on the following pages. The recommendations are divided into three distinct categories:
Operations recommendations focus on improving how service is delivered, which includes new approaches to dispatching, coordinating with other operators like Kern Transit, and new programs for training drivers, as well as identifying and applying for grants.
Administrative and policy recommendations identify approaches to improve customer experience, comply with state guidelines, and smooth the transition to a zero-emission fleet.
Capital recommendations involve capital projects that would upgrade or enhance agency assets, enhance agency resiliency, and improve transit access for riders.
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A summary table provides a brief overview and the estimated costs of all recommendations in each category. Each recommendation is then described in greater detail on the following pages.
Some of the recommendations include potential costs to help prioritize investment and provide an idea of the resources needed for implementation. Costs are preliminary estimates and not intended to be exact. Recommendations that are expected to be very low cost (under $10,000) or accomplished by city staff as part of their normal duties are not assigned a cost.
RESILIENCY: AN OVERARCHING
CONSIDERATION
Resiliency is a key consideration in transportation planning because it ensures transportation systems can continue operating or quickly recover from disruptions such as climate hazards, 1 natural disasters, equipment failures, or economic hardship (e.g., funding challenges). A resilient transit system should be able to plan for and adapt to changing conditions, whether that means rerouting service during wildfires or floods, maintaining service during power outages, or responding to changes in travel from the community.
Within the framework of the nine TDPs Nelson\Nygaard is producing for Kern County transit agencies, resiliency is an overarching consideration. By incorporating resiliency into these TDPs, agencies can protect rider safety, maintain access to essential destinations, and minimize service interruptions. Ultimately, investing in resiliency helps create a more reliable, sustainable, and equitable transit network that can withstand future uncertainties. 1 Per the Kern Area Regional Goods-Movement Operations (KARGO) study, climate hazards specifically identified for Kern County include “increased incidences of extreme heat events, prolonged drought, and associated increases in the risk of wildfires [… and] with longer dry spells combined with increased precipitation from singular storm events, the risk of flooding to the region also increases.” Resiliency [noun]:
An ability to recover from or adjust easily to adversity or change.
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From Nelson\Nygaard’s perspective, resiliency can be categorized into one of six buckets:
Resiliency of fleet
Resiliency of facilities
Financial sustainability/resiliency
Emergency preparedness resiliency
Staffing resiliency
Resiliency in operations (community mobility)
Aside from emergency preparedness, the recommendations developed in this TDP directly address these five elements of resiliency. Emergency preparedness is not directly addressed in this TDP. More information on emergency preparedness is included in the callout box below. Within this chapter, there are six recommendations that support system resiliency and are denoted by a leaf in the header. Resiliency recommendations include improving reliability of service, improving infrastructure, expanding fleet and personnel capacities, and enhancing customer-facing information.
What is emergency preparedness?
Emergency preparedness is the process of ensuring a transit agency can prevent, respond to, and recover from emergencies that affect riders, employees, and service.
Emergencies may include natural disasters (earthquakes, floods, wildfires), severe weather, major accidents, hazardous materials incidents, cyber disruptions, or security threats. The goal is to protect life and safety, minimize service disruption, and restore operations as quickly and safely as possible.
Emergency preparedness is a multi-dimensional issue that requires extensive planning and coordination both within and between various City departments, as well as externally with neighboring jurisdictions and Kern County government.
How can the City prepare for an emergency?
The City of Ridgecrest should develop an emergency preparedness plan if one is not already developed. This should include considerations for transit, including identifying key risks, defining staff roles and decision-making authority, and establishing clear procedures for communication, service changes, and coordination with first responders.
Consideration should be given to transit’s role in evacuations, resource sharing (e.g., what happens if the City’s transit facility burns down or the fleet is lost due to a fire), and regional coordination in the event an emergency extends beyond the City. Regular training, drills, and updates help ensure plans remain effective and staff are prepared to respond if an emergency occurs.
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OPERATIONS RECOMMENDATIONS
There are five operations recommendations which focus on improving how service is delivered, including new approaches to dispatching, coordinating with other operators like ESTA, and new programs for training drivers, as well as identifying and applying for grants.
Number Recommendation Description Responsibility for
Implementation
Cost
O-1 Improve Coordination with
Regional Peers
Use regular meetings with ESTA to
discuss issues and solutions. Improve
communications to ease transfers to
and from ESTA.
Ridgecrest, ESTA Minimal cost to agency
O-2 Establish Countywide Driver
Training Program
Establish a standard driver training
program across the county by sharing
materials, centralizing training, or
developing a program at local colleges
Kern COG lead,
Ridgecrest and other
agencies support
Further study needed
O-3 Establish Countywide Grant
Resource Program
Establish a grant resource program
with Kern COG to centralize
information and opportunities on grant
funding
Kern COG lead,
Ridgecrest and other
agencies support
Further study needed,
but could be minimal cost
O-4
Support Countywide
Procurement of New
Dispatching Software
Support feasibility study examining the
possibility of jointly procuring
dispatching software with Kern COG
Kern COG lead,
Ridgecrest and other
agencies support
Minimal cost to agency
O-5
Explore Opportunities to Share
Zero-Emission Vehicle
Maintenance Expertise
Investigate the possibility of sharing
maintenance resources (staff, training,
or both) for Dial-A-Ride
Kern COG lead,
Ridgecrest and other
agencies support
Further study needed
: Denotes a recommendation that supports agency resiliency Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Final Report
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O-1 Improve Coordination with Regional Peers
Currently, there is limited communication between Ridgecrest Transit and other transit agencies in the region, particularly the Eastern Sierra Transit Authority (ESTA). Improving communication between agencies can help improve operations, raise awareness of issues, and ultimately enhance the transit rider experience in Kern County.
During the interview Nelson\Nygaard conducted at the start of the project, Ridgecrest Transit staff expressed that coordination with ESTA can be difficult, especially when trying to time transfers with the ESTA route at Inyokern.
Ridgecrest Transit and ESTA should establish a monthly coordination call to discuss operational issues regarding transfers at the Inyokern Transfer Hub. This call can include reviewing on-time performance data and the process/reliability of being able to transfer passengers at Inyokern. The calls should also establish a process for how the two agencies communicate vehicle arrival times and passengers wishing to transfer at Inyokern. The process could involve establishing a direct line of communication with ESTA and Ridgecrest Transit dispatchers/operators, or using a public app like the Transit App to track arrival times for the ESTA route. Ridgecrest Transit has already adjusted the schedule of its Inyokern route to better align with the ESTA schedule.
O-2 Establish Countywide Driver Training Program
Currently, each transit agency in Kern County trains its own drivers. With the tight labor market, agencies are competing for a small pool of Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) certified drivers, many of whom are being recruited by freight, delivery, other private companies, or larger transit agencies (like Golden Empire Transit). Establishing a unified, countywide training program for agencies can increase the pipeline of qualified applicants, reduce training costs, and ensure applicant quality. Various agencies, including Ridgecrest Transit, expressed interest in establishing a countywide driver training program.
Ridgecrest Transit should work with Kern COG and other transit agencies in Kern County to establish a driver training program. This could be discussed at a future Kern COG transit operators meeting to gauge interest and discuss next steps.
A driver training program can take many forms. A few possible options are listed below:
Ensuring existing trainings are shared with all Kern County transit agencies. In cases where training is charged as a per-course or per-session fee, rather than perperson, there is an opportunity to invite other agencies and either share in the costs or attend free of charge. As an example, Kern Transit is already paying for Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) training with a fixed per-course fee. If desired, other agencies should also send staff to attend the training.
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Centralizing trainings. Interested transit agencies in Kern County could work together to develop a consolidated training program that would be accepted by all participating agencies. This could take many forms, including working with Kern Transit’s existing contractor who does their own trainings, hiring a different contractor, or having a single agency provide the training. The content should include all necessary trainings including ADA training, sensitivity training for passengers with disabilities, drug and alcohol testing, and other certifications necessary to drive a transit vehicle.
Developing a training program with local colleges. When Nelson\Nygaard spoke with local community colleges in Kern County, there was interest in establishing a driver training program to help build the pipeline for future employees. This idea would need to be explored further but should include the trainings mentioned under the centralized training scenario to ensure employment can be secured after graduation.
The program could be funded with National Rural Transit Assistance Program grants, which should be sufficient to cover most, or all, of the costs associated, further reducing costs to the participating agencies.
O-3 Establish Countywide Grant Resource Program
Grant funding opportunities can be difficult to identify and complicated to navigate, especially for small agencies. Various agencies, including Ridgecrest Transit, expressed interest in Kern COG establishing a countywide grant resource program that would allow them to better find and apply for grants. Kern COG currently provides two Grant Finder licenses to each member agency.
Ridgecrest Transit should work with Kern COG and other interested agencies to establish what this program could look like. This could be discussed at a future Kern COG transit operators meeting to gauge interest and discuss next steps. The COG could model the program off ones already established elsewhere in the United States. These programs often include lists of relevant grant opportunities, lists of third-party resources on grant identification or application, and training or help sessions from agency staff.
Establishing a grant training program would help local transit agencies find and secure more funding, thus improving the service they provide to their communities.
O-4 Support Countywide Procurement of New
Dispatching Software
Ridgecrest Transit is encouraged to support the countywide procurement of a new dispatching system in collaboration with Kern COG and other regional partners. While Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Final Report
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Ridgecrest Transit has successfully implemented the TripSpark platform, other agencies in Kern County have told Nelson\Nygaard that their dispatching software is expensive, difficult to use, or that they are relying on manual dispatch. Several agencies have expressed interest in a joint procurement of dispatching software through Kern COG, and Ridgecrest has put Kern COG in contact with representatives from TripSpark.
Ridgecrest Transit is uniquely positioned to advise other agencies and be a resource during the evaluation of dispatching software. This could include sharing their experiences with the TripSpark platform as well as conversations and experiences they have had with other software vendors. This can be a topic of discussion at a future Kern COG transit operators meeting.
By pooling resources, agencies can get a better deal, lowering the cost of entry to all transit agencies. If TripSpark is selected, it may reduce costs for Ridgecrest Transit. In addition, this would allow data to be shared across Kern County, making it easier to coordinate trips between multiple providers (i.e., trips can automatically be tracked on the computer rather than by calling dispatch).
O-5 Explore Opportunities to Share Zero-Emission
Vehicle Maintenance Expertise
Ridgecrest Transit currently has a small fleet of zero-emission vehicles but has experienced difficulties in the past with repairing the vehicles quickly when they break down. Other transit agencies in Kern County have expressed similar concerns and indicated specialized electric vehicle work usually requires a mechanic from Los Angeles. This results in high costs to perform the maintenance and long delays getting vehicles back into service. There could be an opportunity for better coordination and sharing of maintenance resources in Kern County to service zero-emission vehicles. This could reduce costs and the time necessary to repair vehicles.
Ridgecrest Transit should work with Kern COG and other interested transit operators who utilize zero-emission vehicles to investigate the feasibility of sharing zeroemission vehicle maintenance expertise. This could involve sharing staff, training, or both.
This could be discussed at a future Kern COG transit operators meeting to gauge interest and discuss next steps.
As an initial step, a search should be conducted to identify all available maintenance personnel in Kern County that can perform maintenance on zero-emission vehicles, which can include transit agencies (e.g., Golden Empire Transit), local governments (e.g., City of Bakersfield, Kern County), or private companies.
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If locally available maintenance personnel are identified, agencies can begin discussions on the feasibility of sharing zero-emission vehicle mechanics among interested parties. A costsharing agreement could also be negotiated.
If no zero-emission maintenance personnel are available, agencies should discuss and evaluate establishing staff in Kern County by either making strategic hires and/or training existing mechanics to perform zero-emission work. The training curriculum should be coordinated among Kern County agencies so mechanics can maintain all vehicles in operation.
While it may not make sense for a smaller agency like Ridgecrest Transit to employ a fulltime mechanic to work on zero-emission vehicles, when shared amongst various agencies, it can become more feasible. The need for specialized expertise in zero-emission vehicles in Kern County will only continue to grow as more zero-emission vehicles continue to be added to many transit agency fleets.
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ADMINISTRATIVE AND POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS
There are four administrative and policy recommendations, which identify approaches to improve customer experience, comply with state guidelines, and smooth the transition to a zero-emission fleet.
Number Recommendation Description
Responsibility for
Implementation Cost
A-1 Improve Customer
Communication and Website
Add information on the website for DialA-Ride service and Kern Transit Route 227 and 230. Develop a brochure that
advertises the availability of other
transit options (Kern Transit, ESTA)
and how to ride Ridgecrest Transit.
Ridgecrest Minimal cost to agency
A-2
Continue Developing
Onboarding Manuals for Agency
Staff
Continue development of onboarding
manuals to help to ensure agency
resiliency with staff turnover and
streamline the onboarding process
Ridgecrest Minimal cost to agency
A-3 Update Farebox Recovery
Compliance Policy
Develop a strategy when new guidance
is released to remain compliant Ridgecrest Minimal cost to agency A-4 Create a Zero-Emission Fleet
Resiliency Plan
Develop a zero-emission resiliency
plan to identify ways to improve the
resiliency of vehicle operations with a
zero-emission fleet
Ridgecrest $10,000–$50,000
One time
: Denotes a recommendation that supports agency resiliency Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Final Report
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A-1 Improve Customer Communication and Website
Ridgecrest Transit should refresh their webpage to add more information regarding transit options to Bakersfield using Kern Transit Routes 227 and 230. This will help riders understand all their potential transportation options, beyond just Ridgecrest Transit.
Nelson\Nygaard recommends the following information be updated or included on the website:
Information on Kern Transit Routes 227 and 230. The Ridgecrest Transit website provides a link to the Kern Transit main website but does not say which routes serve Ridgecrest. The website should provide a link to the current Route 227 and Route 230 pages so riders can download the latest schedule and see a map of where the bus stops in Ridgecrest are. In addition, the website should state there are timed transfers on Kern Transit for those wishing to travel to/from Bakersfield. In the morning traveling towards Bakersfield, Kern Transit Route 227 has one trip with a timed transfer to Route 150 in Lake Isabella, while Route 230 has one trip with a timed transfer to Route 100 in Mojave. In the afternoon, there is a single timed transfer for both Routes 227 and 230 returning to Ridgecrest. Publishing these timed connections can make potential riders more aware of transit options to get to Bakersfield.
Ridgecrest Transit should also develop a brochure advertising the availability of other transportation options, including Kern Transit and ESTA. Ridgecrest Transit staff have shared with Nelson\Nygaard that there have been requests or questions from riders on how to get to Bakersfield or other destinations outside of Ridgecrest Transit’s service area. This brochure should include information on the timed transfers to Bakersfield on Kern Transit.
The brochure should also include information on how to ride Ridgecrest Transit, such as where service goes, when it operates, how to ride, etc. This brochure can be useful for distributing to prospective riders at community events and a quick at-a-glance reference that is available on the website.
A-2 Continue Developing Onboarding Manuals for
Agency Staff
During the meeting with Ridgecrest Transit last year, agency staff discussed a need for improved training materials and processes. Specifically, both the Transit Operations Supervisor and Transit Administrator cited staff turnover combined with a lack of formal onboarding documentation hinders new hires from understanding their roles and responsibilities.
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To date, Ridgecrest Transit has already developed a manual for the Transit Operations Supervisor position as well as for new drivers and dispatchers. These manuals will strengthen agency resiliency by ensuring critical institutional knowledge is not lost during staff transitions. The Transit Administrator manual is currently being developed and will be finalized following a full year’s cycle of grant developments and reporting deadlines.
Ridgecrest Transit should continue the development of the onboarding manual for the Transit Administrator position.
A-3 Update Farebox Recovery Compliance Policy
The 10% farebox recovery standard set by the state has been suspended since 2020, but a working group, the Transportation Transformation Task Force, recently recommended changes to the Transportation Development Act (TDA), which includes removing penalties associated with meeting farebox recovery standards.
Because the farebox recovery requirement currently remains in the TDA, Ridgecrest Transit should develop a strategy to meet the requirements and maintain full compliance with state guidance. This will ensure that the City avoids findings during TDA triennial performance audits.
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A-4 Create a Zero-Emission Fleet Resiliency Plan
Ridgecrest Transit is working to transition its fleet to zero-emission vehicles in accordance with its Zero-Emission Vehicle Transition Plan. Ridgecrest Transit has expressed concerns about the transition, particularly regarding power availability, as the City experiences frequent brownouts in some seasons.
Ridgecrest Transit should work to develop a Zero-Emission Vehicle Resiliency Plan, either in-house or with a consultant. This Zero-Emission Vehicle Resiliency Plan would provide a plan for dealing with some of the vehicle resiliency issues the agency is currently experiencing.
For example, the plan can help identify ways to prevent and deal with unexpected vehicle breakdowns. This can include working to secure additional spare combustible or hybrid vehicles, purchasing backup power generators, strengthening preventative maintenance checks, and/or working to build in-house expertise for zero-emission vehicle repairs (Recommendation O-5).
A well-prepared Zero-Emission Vehicle Resiliency Plan can help ensure reliable service for riders during equipment failures or any other events which can disrupt service.
This Plan should consider opportunities to share zero-emission maintenance experience identified as part of Recommendation O-5 (Explore opportunities to share zero-emission vehicle maintenance expertise).
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CAPITAL RECOMMENDATIONS
There are two capital recommendations which involve capital projects that would upgrade or enhance agency assets, enhance agency resiliency, and improve transit access for riders.
Number Recommendation Description Responsibility for
Implementation Cost
C-1 Continue Development of
Training Facility
Secure funding to begin
design/construction of new training
facility
Ridgecrest Unknown,
Further study needed
C-2 Continue Vehicle Replacement
Program
Several of Ridgecrest Transit's vehicles
are at the end of or approaching the
end of their useful life. The agency
should continue its fleet replacement
plan until there are no vehicles in the
fleet that are beyond their useful life.
Ridgecrest $750,000
: Denotes a recommendation that supports agency resiliency Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Final Report
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C-1 Continue Development of Training Facility
The City of Ridgecrest would like to build a new driver training facility in the lot adjacent to the existing transit yard.
The City of Ridgecrest should continue working to secure funding to begin design and construction of the training facility. The City is currently working to secure funding and will begin construction of the new training facility once all funding has been secured. The City’s Engineering Division is working to develop draft plans for the site.
This facility would allow Ridgecrest Transit to train new and existing drivers locally rather than sending them elsewhere in Kern County. This could reduce training costs and make it easier to keep up with required trainings. This facility could also potentially be leveraged by other agencies as part of Recommendation O-2 (Establish a countywide driver training program).
C-2 Continue Vehicle Replacement Program
Many of Ridgecrest Transit’s vehicles are past their useful lifespan. Ridgecrest Transit staff have stated they have recently acquired one new Ford E-Transit 350 and are in the process of purchasing four additional Ford E-Transit 350s. Staff are also working to secure funds for a new EV cutaway bus.
Ridgecrest Transit should continue its fleet replacement plan until there are no vehicles in the fleet that are beyond their useful life. Nelson\Nygaard recommends that Ridgecrest Transit keep several of the older internal combustion vehicles for use as spares, improving resiliency. These spare vehicles should be driven and maintained regularly to ensure they can be placed into service when needed. The Zero-Emission Vehicle Resiliency Plan (Recommendation A-4) should account for the new vehicles that are continuing to be purchased by Ridgecrest Transit, and any countywide zero-emission maintenance collaboration (Recommendation O-5).
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8 PHASE TWO PUBLIC
OUTREACH SUMMARY
This chapter summarizes Phase Two outreach, which took place in March 2026.
The goals of Phase Two outreach were to provide an update on the Transit Development Plan project and to present the proposed recommendations to the public for feedback.
Phase Two outreach involved a virtual public meeting in Ridgecrest in March and an online survey.
RIDGECREST VIRTUAL PUBLIC MEETING
The Nelson\Nygaard team and City staff held a virtual
public meeting on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at 6:30 p.m.
The meeting was hosted on Zoom. Although no
community members attended the meeting the
presentation was recorded and posted online. The City’s outreach and promotion efforts for this meeting included posting the meeting flyer on City transit vehicles, posting an announcement on their website, and handing out flyers to passengers.
Nelson\Nygaard staff
presented about the TDP process and the proposed
transit improvement involving later weekday service. The meeting was presented in English and Spanish with
bilingual slides and translation available throughout.
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PHASE TWO SURVEY
A virtual survey was administered as part of Phase Two outreach and was open for almost four weeks in March 2026. The City handed out flyers with the survey QR code to transit passengers and distributed paper copies of survey questions at the Ridgecrest Senior Center.
The survey was also advertised during the recorded virtual public meeting held on March 12, 2026.
Like the public meeting, the intent of the survey was to receive feedback on the recommendations and how the recommendations could be implemented in phases. The survey also asked respondents demographic and socioeconomic questions, including their transit usage and vehicle ownership, age, ethnicity, and income. No community members completed the survey.
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9 IMPROVEMENT PHASING
This chapter outlines how Nelson\Nygaard believes the eleven recommendations detailed in Chapter 7 should be implemented by the Ridgecrest Transit. The TDP is a five-year plan, and the improvement phasing matrix that follows is set up to organize which recommendations should be implemented during which year of the plan.
The recommendations are intentionally staggered throughout the life of the plan to not overwhelm the agency in the first few years. Simpler and lower-cost recommendations can be implemented sooner, including items such as improving customer communications by updating the website.
Some recommendations work best if implemented alongside others. For example, creating a zero-emission fleet resiliency plan (Recommendation A-4) naturally intersects with exploring opportunities to share zero-emission maintenance resources (Recommendation O-5).
This implementation plan was used in the development of financial plan, discussed in the next chapter.
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IMPLEMENTATION PHASING TABLE
Number Recommendation Responsibility Year One (FY 2027) Year Two (FY 2028) Year Three (FY 2029) Year Four (FY 2030) Year Five (FY 2031) O-1 Improve Coordination with
Regional Peers Ridgecrest, ESTA
Work with ESTA to establish
monthly coordination calls to
discuss on-time performance and
transfers at Inyokern
O-2 Establish Countywide Driver
Training Program
Kern COG lead,
Ridgecrest and other
agencies support
Begin discussions with other
interested transit operators in
Kern County
Identify volunteers to be part of
a task force to formally evaluate
and build out the structure of
program
Connect with potential industry
and education partners
Continue the development of the
program
Finalize and roll out the program
O-3 Establish Countywide Grant
Resource Program
Kern COG lead,
Ridgecrest and other
agencies support
Begin discussions with other
interested transit operators in
Kern County
Identify volunteers to be part of
a task force to formally evaluate
and build out the structure of
program
Finalize and roll out program
O-4
Support Countywide
Procurement of New
Dispatching Software
Kern COG lead,
Ridgecrest and other
agencies support
Share experience with procuring
and using TripSpark software with
other agencies
Begin discussions with other
interested transit operators in Kern
County
Develop structure for
procurement and cost sharing
agreements
Begin procurement process
Select vendor and onboard all
participating agencies
Conduct necessary training
O-5
Explore Opportunities to Share
Zero-Emission Vehicle
Maintenance Expertise
Kern COG lead,
Ridgecrest and other
agencies support
Begin discussions with other
interested transit operators in
Kern County
Identify volunteers to be part of
a task force to formally evaluate
and determine feasibility
Begin evaluation and feasibility
assessment
Continue evaluation and
feasibility assessment
Begin building out the structure
of program
Review plans with agency
partners
Begin implementation Continue implementation
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Number Recommendation Responsibility Year One (FY 2027) Year Two (FY 2028) Year Three (FY 2029) Year Four (FY 2030) Year Five (FY 2031) A-1 Improve Customer
Communication and Website Ridgecrest
Develop brochure explaining
transit options and how to ride
Ridgecrest Transit
Update Ridgecrest Transit
website
A-2
Continue Developing
Onboarding Manuals for Agency
Staff
Ridgecrest Finalize onboarding manual for
Transit Administrator position
A-3 Update Farebox Recovery
Compliance Policy Ridgecrest Develop a compliance strategy when new guidance is released
A-4 Create a Zero-Emission Fleet
Resiliency Plan Ridgecrest Create zero-emission fleet
resiliency plan Implement findings
Number Recommendation Responsibility Year One (FY 2027) Year Two (FY 2028) Year Three (FY 2029) Year Four (FY 2030) Year Five (FY 2031) C-1 Continue Development of
Training Facility Ridgecrest Secure funding for a new transit training facility Begin final design work Begin construction if funding is secured
C-2 Continue Vehicle Replacement
Program Ridgecrest Acquire two new EV vans Acquire one new EV cutaway bus Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Final Report
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10FINANCIAL FORECAST
As part of this TDP, Nelson\Nygaard developed a five-year financial model to understand projected revenues and
expenditures for the life of the plan. Using projections built off historical data, these forecasts are meant to provide a high-level view of Ridgecrest Transit’s financial health, upcoming capital projects, and capacity to implement recommendations.
DATA SOURCES
Data for past revenues and expenditures, including revenue from federal and state grant programs, was obtained from Ridgecrest’s published budgets. Actual revenue and expenditures were used for Fiscal Years 2021 through 2024. Data on ridership and revenue hours primarily came from NTD reports and were supplemented by State Controller reports in more recent years if NTD data is missing.
Kern COG provided data on total grant and state formula funding allocations, such as Low Carbon Transit Operations Program (LCTOP). Information on capital spending, including new fleet and facilities, was obtained directly from the City of Ridgecrest.
FINANCIAL MODEL AND ASSUMPTIONS
The model relies on a series of assumptions that allow current revenues and costs to be forecast in the future. Changing one or more of the assumptions can dramatically impact the future financial forecast. Assumptions built into the model include:
Vehicle replacement costs and timeframes, including agency-provided data and Federal Transit Administration (FTA) useful life schedules Scheduled capital projects
Cost for providing an hour of revenue service
Number of service hours budgeted per year
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Inflation rates for administrative labor, fuel, maintenance contracting, and other necessary costs
Population and employment growth (used as an indicator for the potential growth of revenues)
Necessary administrative and overhead costs
Projections are in nominal dollars, and future years are adjusted based on past performance or reliable projections, when available. Some important notes about projections and assumptions include:
Inflation forecasts are based on Federal Reserve 10-year projections. Revenues from sales and use taxes and formula grant funding are projected based on a composite of inflation, population growth, and employment growth for Kern County.
Labor, fuel, and other expenditures that increase or decrease along with service provided are calculated at a per-service-hour rate, then adjusted upward for inflation.
This allows service hour projections to directly affect costs. Other expenditures that do not vary with service provided, like utilities or facility costs, are adjusted based on inflation alone.
Farebox revenue is projected using the average revenue per passenger from the last reported fiscal year multiplied by projected ridership. Since fares are not automatically adjusted for inflation each year, per-passenger revenue remains consistent even if ridership is projected to change.
For capital spending, if the agency had estimates, those estimates were used. When no agency estimate was available, capital costs were estimated based on a variety of sources, including the California Air Resources Board’s (CARB) Transit Fleet Cost Model, vehicle price menus from the Washington and Ohio state governments, and the CALSTART Infrastructure Insite cost estimation tool. The model assumes replacement of vehicles using standard FTA useful life timelines unless otherwise specified in agency documents.
LIMITATIONS
The financial model’s output and summaries are only as accurate as the data and assumptions input into the model. The model and associated outputs are Nelson\Nygaard’s best attempt at capturing the City’s revenues and expenses. Model reliability to predict cashflow into the future with a reasonable degree of certainty assumes a stable regional economy.
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The model is sensitive to operations revenue inputs. A significant portion of funds come from state Local Transportation Fund (LTF) funding; however, in some circumstances, jurisdictions are allowed to flex these funds to other transportation uses, including road construction and maintenance. It is sometimes unclear how much LTF funding is being used for transit, and small changes in allocation can substantially change the projection.
REVENUE SOURCES
Transit agencies in Kern County receive funding from a variety of sources, including state and federal grants, local taxes, and fares. Revenue sources can be used on operating and maintenance (O&M), capital, or both. The following list summarizes the revenue sources included in the model along with a brief description of what they can be used for.
State Funding Sources
Local Transportation Fund (LTF)
− A ¼ cent sales tax that is administered at the state level and then allocated to the jurisdiction where the funds are generated, through Kern COG. While this funding is intended for transit use, jurisdictions are allowed to flex these funds for road construction and maintenance, provided certain criteria are met. State Transit Assistance Fund (STA)
− This funding is generated by a statewide tax on diesel fuel and allocated in a similar manner to LTF funding.
Low Carbon Transit Operations Program (LCTOP)
− This funding is generated by California’s Cap and Trade program and allocated to transit providers for use as operating or capital funds. Zero-Emission Transit Capital Program (ZETCP)
− ZETCP is a state grant formula funding program administered by Kern COG and eligible for use purchasing zero-emission vehicles or refueling infrastructure. The ZETCP program has received additional funding through SB 125 as a one-time infusion.
Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program (TIRCP)
− TIRCP is a formula grant administered by Kern COG that can be used for a variety of capital purposes, including electrification and capital projects that improve service or safety. The TIRCP program has received additional funding through SB 125 as a one-time infusion.
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State of Good Repair (SGR)
− State of Good Repair funding can be used to replace or repair transit capital assets, including vehicles and facilities.
Federal and Local Funding Sources
5311 Grants
− 5311 grants are provided by the FTA to support rural transit operations and are based on a formula, which includes service area population, ridership, and other factors. The money can be used for operations or capital. Fares and Local Revenue
− Ridgecrest Transit is currently fare free and is replacing lost fare revenue with LCTOP funds.
Figure 45 displays the projected revenues for Ridgecrest Transit for the next five years. These projections are based in part on historical trends and projections from Kern COG. Revenue is not divided into operating and capital sources because of a lack of granularity in data sources.
Figure 45 Revenue Sources for Ridgecrest Transit, FY 2027–2031 Revenue
Source FY 2027 FY 2028 FY 2029 FY 2030 FY 2031
TDA Funds
(LTF, STA,
Schedule B)
$864,460 $907,680 $953,070 $1,000,720 $1,050,760
Other State
Funding $196,990 $206,840 $217,180 $228,040 $239,440
FTA 5311 $129,430 $135,900 $142,700 $149,840 $157,330
Other
Revenue $520,010 $546,010 $573,310 $601,980 $632,080
Total
Revenue $1,710,890 $1,796,430 $1,886,260 $1,980,580 $2,079,610 Sources: Nelson\Nygaard Projection
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Overall, Ridgecrest Transit is seeing steady growth in 5311, LCTOP, and TDA funding. TDA funds are a substantial portion of total revenue, and total TDA funding (including funds not dedicated to transit) has grown at about 11% annually, exceeding inflation.
Figure 46 shows the historical allocation of TDA funds towards transit. Our projections assume that approximately 39% of TDA funds are used for transit, which was the average percentage spent between FY 2021 and FY 2025.
Figure 46 Ridgecrest Transit LTF and STA Funding Received, FY 2021–2025 Revenue Source FY 2021 FY 2022 FY 2023 FY 2024
Total LTF and STA Funding $1,387,750.02 $1,387,750.02 $1,799,057.77 $1,974,769.73 Percent Used on Transit 0% 0% 73% 83%
Source: Kern Council of Governments, 2025
MAJOR EXPENSES
Transit agencies incur two main types of costs, operating and capital. Operating costs are those related to day-to-day transit operations, including labor, gas, and office space. Capital costs include fleet and facility costs. Figure 47 shows the anticipated operating and capital expenses for Ridgecrest Transit in the future. Details on what is included or not included follows the table.
Figure 47 Expenses for Ridgecrest Transit, FY 2027–2031 Cost FY 2027 FY 2028 FY 2029 FY 2030 FY 2031
Operating
Expenses
(Labor, Fuel,
and
Maintenance)
$1,557,340 $1,596,270 $1,636,180 $1,677,080 $1,719,010
Total Costs $1,557,340 $1,596,270 $1,636,180 $1,677,080 $1,719,010 Sources: Nelson\Nygaard Projections
Operating Expenses
Operating costs can be broken down into variable costs, which increase or decrease along with service, and fixed costs, which are relatively steady. Variable costs include driver labor, fuel, maintenance, tires, and possibly contracted services. Fixed costs include administrative labor, utilities, and facilities costs, which do not change with small changes in service. The costs included in Figure 47 shows the anticipated costs to continue operating transit service in the future at existing service levels.
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Capital Expenses
Ridgecrest Transit’s planned capital costs are primarily related to the proposed training facility. The City has not determined the exact cost of the transit training facility; however, it is likely that it will cost at least $1 million. Much of this is expected to be funded using grant money. Given the uncertainty around future capital funding needs, Figure 47 does not include any capital expenses beyond fleet replacement.
RECOMMENDATIONS AND
IMPROVEMENT COSTS
Ridgecrest Transit currently has a strong financial position and a healthy reserve fund. If the City continues to dedicate a similar, or even slightly smaller, proportion of TDA funds to transit, it should have sufficient funds to implement all recommendations.
Figure 48 displays the current net position and the reserve between FY 2027 and the end of the plan in FY 2031. The reserve is calculated from the first year of the financial model (FY 2022) and does not reflect any previous savings the agency may have. It also provides the estimated costs of implementing each recommendation and the net position if all are implemented. For costs with a range due to different implementation options, a high and low estimate is given, and a best-case overall position is provided. These costs are planning-level estimates given in 2025 dollars.
As shown, the agency’s net financial position is positive most years. Large capital costs, such as vehicle acquisition and replacement, are fully funded by grant revenue and the existing reserve funds. The City can likely apply for grant funding that would cover the bulk of any additional capital projects, such as the transit training center.
The City’s new transit facility is not accounted for in this analysis due to a lack of data on costs. It is likely that a substantial portion of the cost can be covered by grant funding, but the overall cost and the proportion that will need to be covered by other funds is unknown.
Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Final Report
Kern Council of Governments 94
Figure 48 Ridgecrest Transit Financial Position, Baseline and with Recommendations, FY 2027–2031 FY 2027 FY 2028 FY 2029 FY 2030 FY 2031
Projected Baseline Net
Position and Reserve
Net Position $153,550 $200,160 $250,080 $303,500 $360,600 Net Reserve $1,145,070 $1,345,230 $1,595,310 $1,898,810 $2,259,410 Estimated
Recommendation Costs
C-2 Continue Vehicle
Replacement Program $(516,730) $(250,000)
A-4 Create Zero-Emission
Fleet Resiliency Plan $(10,000)
Sum of Costs $(526,730) $(250,000)
Projected Position $(373,180) $(49,840) $250,080 $303,500 $360,600 Sources: Nelson\Nygaard Projection
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Nelson\Nygaard’s financial model shows that Ridgecrest Transit should be able to operate service at existing levels over the next five years based on projected growth in operating funds.
Over the last four years, the City has been spending between 0% and 83% of Local Transportation Fund (LTF) and State Transit Assistance Fund (STA) funding on transit operations. The City can reduce TDA allocation to 40% on average and still have sufficient funds to implement all recommendations listed in Figure 48.
Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Appendix A Countywide Demographics Kern Council of Governments A-1
APPENDIX A:
COUNTYWIDE
DEMOGRAPHIC MAPS
Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Appendix A Countywide Demographics Kern Council of Governments A-2
Figure 1 Kern County Population Density
Source: ACS 2023 5-Year Estimates
Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Appendix A Countywide Demographics Kern Council of Governments A-3
Figure 2 Percentage of People of Color in Kern County
Source: ACS 2023 5-Year Estimates
Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Appendix A Countywide Demographics Kern Council of Governments A-4
Figure 3 Percentage of Veterans in Kern County
Source: ACS 2023 5-Year Estimate
Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Appendix A Countywide Demographics Kern Council of Governments A-5
Figure 4 Percentage of People with Disabilities in Kern County Source: ACS 2023 5-Year Estimates
Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Appendix A Countywide Demographics Kern Council of Governments A-6
Figure 5 Percentage of Older Adults (65 Years and Older) in Kern County Source: ACS 2023 5-Year Estimates
Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Appendix A Countywide Demographics Kern Council of Governments A-7
Figure 6 Percentage of Young Adults (18-24 Years Old) in Kern County Source: ACS 2023 5-Year Estimates
Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Appendix A Countywide Demographics Kern Council of Governments A-8
Figure 7 Percentage of People in Poverty in Kern County Source: ACS 2023 5-Year Estimates
Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Appendix A Countywide Demographics Kern Council of Governments A-9
Figure 8 Percentage of Population with Limited English Proficiency in Kern County Source: ACS 2023 5-Year Estimates
Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Appendix A Countywide Demographics Kern Council of Governments A-10
Figure 9 Percentage of Households with Zero Vehicles in Kern County Source: ACS 2023 5-Year Estimate
Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Appendix A Countywide Demographics Kern Council of Governments A-11
Figure 10 Employment Density in Kern County
Source: LEHD 2022
Ridgecrest Transit Development Plan Appendix A Countywide Demographics Kern Council of Governments A-12
Figure 11 Employment Density of Low-Wage Jobs in Kern County Source: LEHD 2022
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Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority
STAFF REPORT
SUBJECT: Declaration Of Surplus Vehicle And Authorization To Sell A Surplus Communications Vehicle To The Sierra Amateur Radio Club Of The High Mojave
PRESENTED BY: Mario Ysit, Chief of Police
SUMMARY:
Staff requests that the City Council declare one 1998 Ford E-450 Communications Van as surplus and authorize its sale to the Sierra Amateur Radio Club of the High Mojave for the nominal amount of One Dollar ($1.00).
The vehicle is a 1998 Ford E-450 Communications Van (VIN: 1FDXE40S6WHA10143) that was originally a transit van then converted into a mobile communications vehicle and utilized during emergency incidents, planned events, and disaster response. Due to its age, maintenance requirements, and the availability of newer communications equipment, the vehicle is no longer required for City operations.
The Sierra Amateur Radio Club of the High Mojave is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting emergency communications, disaster preparedness, public service events, and amateur radio operations throughout the Indian Wells Valley. The organization has expressed interest in utilizing the vehicle to support its volunteer emergency communications mission.
The proposed sale serves a public purpose by supporting a local nonprofit organization that provides volunteer emergency communications assistance during disasters, public events, and other community emergencies. The continued use of the vehicle by the organization provides a greater public benefit than disposal through public auction, where the vehicle's age, specialized configuration, and condition would likely result in minimal financial return to the City.
The sale of the vehicle for the nominal amount of One Dollar ($1.00) will eliminate future maintenance and storage costs while allowing the vehicle to continue serving the community.
Staff are requesting City Council find the following:
1. Declare the 1998 Ford E-450 Communications Van (VIN: 1FDXE40S6WHA10143) as surplus to the needs of the City.
2. Find that the sale of the surplus vehicle to the Sierra Amateur Radio Club of the High Mojave for the nominal amount of One Dollar ($1.00) serves a public purpose by supporting a local nonprofit organization that provides volunteer emergency communications, disaster preparedness, and public service support to the Ridgecrest community.
3. Authorize the City Manager, or his staff, to execute all documents necessary to complete the sale and transfer ownership of the vehicle.
Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority
STAFF REPORT
Attachments
1. Sales Agreement between the City of Ridgecrest and the Sierra Amateur Radio Club of the High Mojave.
FISCAL IMPACT: No cost to City. The City will receive nominal consideration of One Dollar ($1.00) revenue accounts. Disposal of the vehicle will eliminate future maintenance, storage, insurance, and administrative costs associated with retaining a surplus vehicle.
ACTION REQUESTED: Authorize the City Manager to finalize the negotiation of the contract amendment consistent with the details provided in the staff report, subject to City Attorney’s approval and authorize the City Manager to execute the amendment on behalf of the City.
CITY MANAGER / EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR RECOMMENDATION:
Action as Requested
Submitted by: Mario Ysit Action Date: July 15, 2026
RESOLUTION NO. 26-XX
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
RIDGECREST APPROVING A SURPLUS VEHICLE SALE AGREEMENT
BETWEEN THE CITY OF RIDGECREST AND THE SIERRA AMATEUR
RADIO CLUB OF THE HIGH MOJAVE
WHEREAS, the City has declared the 1998 Ford E-450 Communications Van (VIN 1FDXE40S6WHA10143) surplus to the needs of the City; and, WHEREAS, the Sierra Amateur Radio Club of the High Mojave is a California nonprofit organization comprised of unpaid volunteers who provide emergency communications, disaster preparedness, support during emergencies, public service events, and assistance to public safety agencies throughout the Indian Wells Valley; and,
WHEREAS, the Sierra Amateur Radio Club of the High Mojave purchasing this vehicle in its “Current Condition”, the City of Ridgecrest will not be responsible for any current or future repairs; and,
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that selling the surplus vehicle for the nominal consideration of One Dollar ($1.00) serves a valid public purpose because the continued use of the vehicle by the Club provides greater public benefit than disposal through public auction.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council approves the Surplus Vehicle Sale Agreement and authorizes the City Manager, or designee, to execute all documents necessary to complete the sale and transfer of the vehicle.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED, this 15th day of July, 2026, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
Travis Endicott, Mayor
ATTEST:
Ricca Charlon, CMC
City Clerk
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CITY OF RIDGECREST
SURPLUS VEHICLE SALE AGREEMENT