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
October 7, 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.
Watch meetings on-line:
All of our meetings are streamed live at https://ridgecrest-ca.gov/369/Watch or on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/cityofridgecrest/live and are also available for playback after the meeting.
Call in for public comments:
To participate with verbal comments, please call (760) 499-5010. This phone line will allow only one caller at a time, so if the line is busy, please continue to dial. We will be allowing a 20-30 second delay between callers to give time for media delays and callers to dial in. If you wish to comment on multiple items you will need to call in as each item is presented.
CITY COUNCIL
Travis Endicott, Mayor
Kyle Blades, Mayor Pro-Tem
Solomon P. Rajaratnam, Vice Mayor
L. Scott Hayman, Council Member
John ‘Skip’ Gorman, Council Member
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, October 7, 2026 Regular Session – 6:00 p.m.
CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
REGULAR SESSION
• Pledge Of Allegiance
• Invocation
PRESENTATIONS
1. Eagle Scout Recognition – Eleanor Hutmacher & Nicholas Hutmacher
2. Chamber 80th Anniversary Recognition
3. Measure L & Measure V FY25 Annual Report
4. Measure P FY25 Annual Report
PUBLIC COMMENT OF ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA - Persons wishing to address the Council on matters that are within the Council’s jurisdiction and DO NOT ALREADY APPEAR ON THE AGENDA, may do so at this time.
COUNCIL ANNOUNCEMENTS/DIRECTION
CONSENT CALENDAR – All Matters Listed Under The Consent Calendar Are To Be Considered Routine And Enacted By One Motion Unless Pulled By A Council Member.
5. Proposed Action To Approve Draft Minutes Of The Regular Ridgecrest City Council Meeting Dated Sept. 16, 2026 Charlon
6. Grant Acceptance For Ridgecrest Animal Shelter Software And Medical Funds Grant, Which Has Been Awarded From The Best Friends Animal Society Capt. Marrone
ORDINANCES
7. Introduction And First Read Of An Ordinance Of The City Council Of Ridgecrest Amending Portions Chapter 106 (Zoning) Of The Ridgecrest Municipal Code Regarding Housing Development Spurlock
8. Introduction And First Read Of An Ordinance Of The City Council Of Ridgecrest Amending Portions Chapter 106 (Zoning) Of The Ridgecrest Municipal Code Regarding Residential Parking Requirements Spurlock
AGENDA - CITY COUNCIL / SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY / FINANCING AUTHORITY / HOUSING AUTHORITY REGULAR – October 7, 2026
DISCUSSION / ACTION ITEMS
9. Discussion Regarding Flock Chief Ysit
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
➢ Report from October 5, 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 October 13, 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 September 24, 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 October 6, 2026
OTHER COMMITTEES, BOARDS, OR COMMISSIONS
CITY MANAGER REPORT
FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
MAYOR AND COUNCIL COMMENTS
ADJOURNMENT
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Eleanor Hutmacher
Scott Hayman
Council Member
Kyle Blades
Mayor Pro Tem
Travis Endicott
Mayor
John ‘Skip’ Gorman
Council Member
Solomon Rajaratnam
Vice Mayor
CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION
This certificate is proudly presented to
CITY OF RIDGECREST
In recognition of your historic achievement as the first female in Ridgecrest to earn the rank of Eagle Scout. As a member of Troop 760, your outstanding leadership, dedication, and commitment to community service were demonstrated through your Eagle Scout project, revitalizing the courtyard at St. Ann School through painting and beautification. Your accomplishment is an inspiration to future generations of Scouts and a source of pride for our community.
October 7, 2026
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Nicholas Hutmacher
Scott Hayman
Council Member
Kyle Blades
Mayor Pro Tem
Travis Endicott
Mayor
John ‘Skip’ Gorman
Council Member
Solomon Rajaratnam
Vice Mayor
CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION
This certificate is proudly presented to
CITY OF RIDGECREST
In recognition of your outstanding leadership, dedication, and commitment to community service demonstrated through
your Eagle Scout project with Troop 55. Your efforts to rehabilitate the horse stables have enhanced the fairgrounds and made a lasting contribution to our community.
October 7, 2026
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A Proclamation of
The City of Ridgecrest, California
HONORING THE RIDGECREST CHAMBER
ON ITS 80
TH ANNIVERSARY
WHEREAS, The Ridgecrest Chamber of Commerce was established on October 9, 1946 and began functioning as Ridgecrest’s governing body and has proudly served the businesses and residents of Ridgecrest and the Indian Wells Valley for 80 years; and, WHEREAS, For eight decades, the Chamber has worked to promote a strong and vibrant business community by supporting local businesses, encouraging entrepreneurship, and advocating for policies and initiatives that strengthen the local economy; and, WHEREAS, The Chamber has served as a bridge between the business community, government, civic organizations, and residents, fostering partnerships and collaboration on issues important to the Indian Wells Valley and,
WHEREAS, Throughout periods of economic change and community challenges, the Ridgecrest Chamber of Commerce has remained committed to serving as a resource, advocate, and voice for the local business community; and,
WHEREAS, The Ridgecrest Chamber of Commerce continues its mission of Building Community and Strengthening the Economy, working to create opportunities for businesses and a stronger future for the entire community.
Now, Therefore, Be It Proclaimed, the Ridgecrest City Council does hereby recognize 2026 as the 80th Anniversary Year of the Ridgecrest Chamber of Commerce and extends its congratulations and appreciation to the Chamber for 80 years of service, advocacy, leadership, and commitment to the Ridgecrest community.
Proclaimed this 7
TH Day of October, 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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1 Citizen’s Oversight
Committee
September 2026
Committee Members:
Chair: Holly Staab
Vice Chair: Mike Gross
Brandon Temple
Gurpreet Badrain
Chris Hill
Measure L and Measure V
Annual Report
Page | 2
Introduction
The fiscal year 2024‐2025 (FY25) report is the thirteenth annual report prepared by the Oversight Committee regarding the use of revenue from Measure L and Measure V sales taxes. City of Ridgecrest Ordinance 12‐02 Chapter 3 Article 2 (2012), and City of Ridgecrest Ordinance 16‐02 Chapter 3, Article 2 (2016) requires a report be generated annually by the Oversight Committee.
What are Measure L and Measure V?
Measure L was a local sales and use tax measure approved in 2012 for the City of Ridgecrest to adopt a 1 cent tax on general sales. Measure L’s five-year term expired in 2017; but funds continue to trickle in due to previously unpaid tax bills.
Measure V, also a 1 cent sales and use tax, was originally voted in by the citizens of Ridgecrest in 2016 with an eight‐year term expiring March 30, 2025. Measure V was reauthorized by voters in November of 2024 with no expiration date.
Funds collected under both measures are considered General Fund Taxes, which means there is no legal obligation for the monies to be allocated to any specific department. However, both were approved based on a commitment from the City Council to use the funds to retain city services for streets and public safety.
The Citizen’s Oversight Committee reviews spending data from the previous fiscal year to verify Measure L and V funding was spent as promised. Data reviewed by the committee can be referenced on the City of Ridgecrest’s website, specifically the Finance Department’s section.
The three duties of the Citizen’s Oversight Committee are listed in Chapter 3 Section 2.117 of the Ridgecrest Municipal Code:
• Review all appropriations of revenues received by the City from the sales and use tax • Review of the City’s Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) • Prepare and issue the committee’s report on their findings Tracking Measure L and Measure V Funds
As a General Fund Tax, all Measure L and V funds are initially deposited in the General Fund.
Measure L and V funds are tracked separately to provide visibility within the financial system.
Public Safety (police) and Public Works (street maintenance) expenditures from Measure L and V funding have unique tracking accounts. For FY 25, Public Safety funds were used for equipment and labor. Public Works expenditures included equipment, labor, material, and contract services.
Page | 3
Executive Summary for FY 25
• Total Tax Revenue for FY25: $23,583,701
• Total from Measure L and V: $5,679,455
The Committee’s
expectation was that the
Measure L and V funds
would be spent as
promised on Public Safety
and Public Works.
Measure V accounts for
36% of Ridgecrest Police
Department's budget and
21% of Public Works'
streets budget.
As continuous state-level
legislation reclassifies
certain felonies as
misdemeanors and limits
police enforcement
powers, fewer suspects are
held before trial – often
being released with
minimal consequence.
This shift has placed a growing financial burden on California cities trying to maintain public safety. In Ridgecrest, Measure V serves as a critical solution by continuing to fund a major portion of the Police Department’s budget.
A majority of the City's General Fund (roughly 60%) pays for salaries, electricity for streetlights, and street sign maintenance. That leaves only 40% to cover nearly 90% of Public Works costs to maintain all of Ridgecrest’s streets.
The City of Ridgecrest’s current Five‐Year Pavement Rehabilitation Plan laid a road map to resurface 99.2 centerline miles of the city’s 126.1-mile street infrastructure (77% of the city’s streets). With the conclusion of FY25 the City had completed 56% of the planned FY25 slurry projects and 71% of the FY25 repaving projects. Although these numbers are behind, City Staff is confident the work included in the Five-Year Plan will be accomplished by the end of FY 2030.
2025 marked the beginning of a new Five-Year Plan (currently available on the City’s website), projecting rehabilitation work into 2030, touching nearly 99% of Ridgecrest’s street infrastructure. In 2030 Public Works will shift its focus to maintaining road improvements made during the 2020s. This will protect Measure V.
Sales Tax
18%
Measure L & V
24%
Measure P
24%
Other Taxes
31%
Gas Tax
3%
Total FY25 Tax Revenue
Page | 4
Findings for Fiscal Year 2025
FY25 began with a carryover of $1,998,770 from the prior year that was budgeted for FY25 projects. Sales tax revenue from Measure L was $6,107, and Measure V was $5,673,348. These combined for a total of $7,678,225 available for expenditures. Measure V continues to provide a stable funding source each year and is heavily relied upon by both Public Works and Public Safety. For the second year since 2019, Measure V revenue decreased, primarily due to the ramp-down of the Navy’s earthquake rebuild projects. Due to Public Works spending significantly under budget on Capital Projects, the Measure V fund finished the year well in the green.
Financial data and details of expenditures were readily provided to the committee to support review of the types of efforts Measure L/V funded.
13th Year FY 2024-2025
Actual Amounts
Prior Year Carry Over $1,998,770
Sales Tax – Measure L $6,107
Sales Tax – Measure V $5,673,348
Expenditures:
Police Department $3,285,027
Engineering $238,761
Street Maintenance $1,929,293
Capital Projects $94,083
Total Expenditures $5,547,164
Revenue Over
Expenditure $132,291
Amount to Carry
Over $2,131,061
Ridgecrest Police
Dept
59%
Public Works
41%
Page | 5
Public Safety Expenditures Summary
Measure V investments continue to support Ridgecrest Police Department (RPD) staffing, fleet modernization, technology improvements, officer safety and public safety operations. In covering approximately 34% of the entire public safety budget, Measure V expenditures of $3,285,027 funded 17.5 positions within the Ridgecrest Police Department, equipment and vehicle purchases, extensive entry level officer training, and advanced officer training.
During FY25, RPD used Measure V
funds to purchase and outfit three vehicles
for various Department needs, consisting
of the following: a patrol truck; a code
enforcement truck supporting nuisance
abatement, illegal dumping investigations,
property maintenance complaints, and
quality-of-life issues; and a transport
vehicle that assists with approximately
720 prisoner transports annually.
RPD also used Measure V funds to
upgrade the department’s dispatch
console, including encryption upgrade,
improving secure communications, officer
safety, reliability and compliance.
Measure V supported officer-safety
equipment designed to protect personnel
and improve their ability to respond safely
to critical incidents. Investments included
ballistic protection, enhanced lighting
equipment, firearm sound-reduction
equipment, and less-lethal impact
rounds—providing officers with
additional protective equipment and
response options
To aid in building a robust force, the
Department used Measure V revenue to
fund hiring activities and background
processes to include testing software,
polygraph examinations, psychological
evaluations, medical examinations, and
Academy training.
During FY25, RPD received 21,938 calls for services, which averaged 60 calls per day. This is a reduction from FY24, reflecting the benefits of a well-staffed, well-trained, and well-equipped police force in the Ridgecrest community.
Page | 6
State regulations require a significant amount of each
officer’s time be spent completing and processing crime reports. This takes away valuable time from an officer’s shift, which otherwise could be directed to patrolling our streets and responding to calls. Additionally, the continued decriminalization of various crimes places a greater burden on police services.
Despite these substantial burdens, Officer initiated incidents averaged 27 per day. The ability to remain proactive in our community is directly attributed to staffing levels made possible by Measure V funding.
RPD continues to monitor crime trends while adjusting their focus and priorities to best address public safety in the City of Ridgecrest. The Department utilized Measure V funds to meet the community’s public safety needs by maintaining the number of sworn officers and support staff necessary to proactively patrol neighborhoods, respond quickly to 9-1-1 calls, and continue crime prevention and community Public Works Department Expenditures Summary
In FY25 Measure V Funded this newly
upgraded Dispatch Console
Vehicles & Equipment
6% Training
1%
Professional Services
1%
Salaries & Temps
92%
FY25 Police Measure V Spending
FY25 Public Works
Measure V Spending
Salaries
5%
Professional Services
5%
Software
1%
Street Maintenance
85%
Capital Projects
4%
Page | 7
For the Public Works Department, Measure L and V
funds continue to provide matching funds for
numerous Federal and State Capital Improvement
projects, covering 21% of the Department’s
expenditures. In FY25, Measure V provided $158K
for the design of the Mahan Street Improvements.
Measure V also provided $533K for Streets
equipment, including a water truck, a traffic control
truck, and a loader.
Measure V continues to fund the majority of the
City’s Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) paving projects and
slurry program. In FY25 more than 2.6 miles of
roadway were repaired, and 6.1 miles slurried. This
work maintained the
current Pavement Condition Index (PCI)
of 58, an objective and repeatable method
for assessing
pavement conditions.
This score has
Ridgecrest firmly in
the Fair range, up
from 23.5 in 2011.
With every year a mile
of street is not
maintained, the
maintenance costs
increase roughly
$252,000 due to
inflation of material and labor costs. This does not account for the worsening condition of the street. Measure V funds are imperative to the City’s goal not to undo progress made, and to reach the sustainability point where each City Street is maintained once every seven years. The City’s Fiscal Year is July 1 through June 30, however, the paving year is approximately April through October. Consequently, paving contracts often overlap fiscal years and final expenditures are subject to adjustment in the subsequent year’s ACFR. Due to the overlap of fiscal year and paving season, it is common to see a carryover of Measure V funds budgeted to Public Works.
Multiple other factors drive the situation, but Public Works uses an aggressive, forward-looking strategy to bid projects so no paving season passes without substantial street improvements.
The map below shows how much has been accomplished with Measure L and Measure V dollars over the past 13 years.
Shown are three of the pieces of equipment
purchased to support the Public Works
Department in FY25
Page | 8
Page | 9
Conclusion and Recommendations
The Measure V Committee has analyzed all relevant expenditures from FY25 and concludes that the intentions expressed in the original compact with the citizens of Ridgecrest have been fulfilled in the best manner possible.
Although more was spent on planning than construction this year, the Committee applauds the proactive and diligent way the Public Works Department continues to utilize Measure V funds to effectively improve the City of Ridgecrest’s streets. The Committee also applauds the way the Ridgecrest Police Department utilizes Measure V funds to maintain public safety and position the department to serve the community for years to come.
The Measure V Committee encourages the City Council to continue to educate the community on the increasing demands and costs of not only maintaining but growing our Public Works and Public Safety resources to best meet the needs of our community. City meetings with open discussion, such as the annual Budget Workshop, are excellent ways of communicating status and future needs for concerned citizens.
The Committee also encourages City Staff and City Council to be aware of the declining tax revenue and to budget accordingly. Although maintaining sufficient staffing in the Police Department is vital, we don’t want infrastructure maintenance and improvements to suffer due to revenue going toward salaries.
Based on the Measure V Oversight Committee’s analysis, the City continues to be a prudent fiscal steward of taxpayer dollars and manages the use of these funds transparently and responsibly. Having our own source of local funding is imperative for maintaining and growing the quality of life in Ridgecrest. The City of Ridgecrest’s citizens and visitors continue to benefit greatly from robust public safety and well-maintained, improved infrastructure made possible by these funds.
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MEASURE P
ANNUAL REPORT
September 28, 2026, For Fiscal Year Ending June 30, 2025 CITIZEN’S OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE
2 INTRODUCTION
The fiscal year 2024‐2025 (FY25) report is the
third annual report prepared by the Oversight
Committee regarding the use of revenue from
Measure P sales tax. City of Ridgecrest
Ordinance 22-06 Chapter 9, Article 86 (2022)
requires that a report be generated annually by
the Oversight Committee regarding the usage
of Measure P funds. The committee is
dedicated to the oversight of these funds and
will maintain reporting standards as outlined in
the Ridgecrest Municipal Code (9.3.2.79-83).
WHAT IS MEASURE P?
Measure P is a local sales and use tax measure approved in 2022 for the City of Ridgecrest to adopt a one cent tax on general sales for a nine-year term, expiring in 2032. This measure was approved based on a commitment from the City Council that the funds would be used to address priorities identified by the public such as:
Fire Service Contract Costs
Reinstatement of 4 Police Officer
positions
Rebuilding Pinney Pool
Recruitment and Retention of City
service providers
Public Outreach and Events
TRACKING MEASURE P FUNDS
Despite Measure P being a General Fund tax, a distinct fund has been established to segregate the funds, facilitating their separate tracking within the City’s financial system to enhance transparency and accountability. Fund 101, designated as the Measure P fund, serves as the sole repository for Measure P funds, ensuring a clear delineation of resources. The majority of Measure P expenses originate from Fund 101. However, it's noteworthy that one exception exists, where a transfer to the General Fund 100 is made specifically for recruitment and retention purposes, emphasizing the strategic allocation of resources to address critical needs within the community.
SOURCE OF REPORT DATA
The Committee reviewed financial data from the City of Ridgecrest ACFR and the City of Ridgecrest Finance Department. The ACFR includes the results of the City’s annual independent audit. This report and the audit results are available to the public by visiting:
https://www.ridgecrest-ca.gov.
3 PURPOSE OF THE CITIZEN’S
OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE
Measure P was passed by voters in 2022. As
mandated by City of Ridgecrest Ordinance
22-06 Chapter 9, Article 86, this report
serves as a crucial mechanism for ensuring
accountability and adherence to the
priorities outlined by the public.
The Committee regularly met every third
Monday after the initial meeting in May
2026 to review and ensure that Fiscal Year
2025 Measure P expenditures were aligned
with the City Council’s commitments.
CITIZEN’S OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE MEMBERS
The three duties of the Committee are listed
in Chapter 9, Article 3, Division 2, Section 9.83
of the Ridgecrest Municipal Code.
Review all appropriations of revenues
received by the City from the sales and
use tax
Review the City’s Annual Comprehensive
Financial Report (ACFR)
Prepare and issue the committee’s report
on their findings
THE 2025 COMMITTEE MEMBERS ARE:
Forrest Lloyd
Chair, Program Manager
Holly Staab
Vice Chair, Configuration and Data Manager
Bradley Patin
Business Owner
Denise Gorman
Ranch Manager
Elidia Dixon
Real Time Telemetry
4 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY FOR FISCAL YEAR 2025
Measure P revenue accounted
for 24% of the City’s total tax
revenue in FY25.
Actual FY25 Measure P
revenues totaled $5,648,715,
notably below the amended
budget of $6,633,000. Despite
the shortfall in projected
revenue, expenditures came in
below the budgeted amount.
There were no expenditures
recorded for the Pool Bond or
Pool Operations and
Maintenance due to the
project being in its design and
engineering phase. The
$6,691,066 carryover provides
flexibility to accommodate
those line items and the Fire
Services Contract in the future.
FY24 FY25
Total Tax Revenue $24,312,560 $23,583,701
Total From Sales Tax $4,625,811 $4,279,392
Total From Measure L & V $6,103,738 $5,679,455
Total From Measure P $6,057,751 $5,648,715
Other Taxes $6,786,860 $7,220,318
Gas Tax $738,400 $755,821
Sales Tax
18%
Measure L & V
24%
Measure P
24%
Other Taxes
31%
Gas Tax
3%
Total FY25 Tax Revenue
5 3rd YEAR - FY 2025 AMENDED
BUDGET
ACTUAL
AMOUNTS
CARRY OVER FROM FY 2024 $ 3,842,111
REVENUES:
SALES TAX - MEASURE P $ 6,633,000 $ 5,648,715
REVENUE - INVESTMENT EARNINGS $ 3,100 $ 86,819
REVENUE - COMMUNITY EVENTS $ 10,000 $ 12,813
TOTAL REVENUES $ 6,646,100 $ 5,748,347
EXPENDITURES:
FIRE CONTRACT $ 773,795 $ 661,054
POLICE POSITIONS $ 776,955 $ 796,261
CITY POSITIONS $ 230,553 $ 216,313
RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION – BENEFITS TRANSFER $ 350,000 $ 350,000 OVERHEAD ALLOCATIONS $ 377,713 $ 377,713
POOL DESIGN AND ENGINEERING COSTS $ 482,725 $ 370,810
POOL BOND $ - $ -
POOL OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE $ - $ -
PUBLIC OUTREACH $ 170,000 $ 129,107
TOTAL EXPENDITURES $ 3,161,741 $ 2,899,391
REVENUE OVER EXPENDITURE $ 3,484,359 $ 2,848,955
AMOUNT CARRIED OVER TO FY 2026 6,691,066
The FY 2025 Measure P expenditures
demonstrate disciplined financial
management and strategic resource
allocation by the City of Ridgecrest.
Out of the $3.16 million in amended
budgeted expenditures, only $2.90
million was spent. This variance was
driven largely by a smaller bill from
Kern County for Fire Services, pool
engineering costs coming in under
budget for the year, and conservative
spending based on the knowledge
that tax revenue was decreasing.
Fire
Contract
23%
Police Positions
27%
Recruitment &
Retention
33%
Pool Design & Engineering
13%
Public Outreach
4%
6 FINDINGS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2025
FIRE SERVICE CONTRACT COSTS
Expenditures
Adopted
Budget
Amended
Budget Expensed % Utilized
KC Fire Services $ 773,795 $ 773,795 $ 661,054 85%
One of the five categories Measuer P was implemented to support is the City’s contract with Kern County to maintain service from both Fire Departments in the city. The use of Measure P funds to cover the Fire Services Contract aligns with the community’s desire to ensure adequate funding for essential services, including fire protection and emergency medical response.
For this fiscal year, the City’s contracted contribution was $773,795. However, due to a property tax realignment, Kern County issued a credit of $835,965, which will continue through Fiscal Year 2026 and fully offsets the City’s current-year contribution.
POLICE POSITIONS
Police Positions Funded by Measure P
Police Officer x4
Kennel Attendant
Police Dispatcher
Police Clerk
Expenditures
Adopted
Budget
Amended
Budget Expensed % Utilized
Police Positions $ 776,955 $ 776,955 $ 796,261 102%
- Salary & Benefits
In FY25, Measure P funds continued to play a critical role in supporting public safety staffing for the Ridgecrest Police Department. The reinstatement of four Officer positions in FY23 was important in supporting public safety and reducing 911 response times. The City continued to budget for additional support staff to include a dispatcher and kennel attendant, helping to ensure the department can meet administrative and operational demands.
Although the Police Department’s Measure P budget exceeded their specific budget allocation by a small amount, the overall fund remained in surplus. The availability of carryover funds from prior years and underspending in other projects allowed the city to absorb the police budget overage without requiring adjustments to the broader financial plan. 7 RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION
Positions Paid For by Measure P
Human Resources Administrator
Admin Analyst II - CED
Admin Analyst - CED P/T
Expenditures
Adopted
Budget
Amended
Budget Expensed % Utilized
Measure P Positions $ 250,553 $ 250,553 $ 216,313 94%
Overhead Allocation $ 377,713 $ 377,713 $ 377,713 100%
Transfer Out to Fund 100 $ 350,000 $ 350,000 $ 350,000 100% Measure P paid for full-time positions described as Human Resources Administrator, Admin Analyst II – CED; and a single part-time position described as Admin Analyst – CED. Total expenditure, covering salaries and benefits was $216,313 which is up about 12% from FY24.
Although under budget, this particular increase is one the Committee again suggests Staff keep an eye on in years to come. Note that the two Admin Analysts listed above support Public Outreach.
Measure P funds were additionally used to support recruitment and retention of City employees by not only covering salaries, but contributing to benefits that encourage employees to stay with the City. During FY25, $350,000 was transferred to Fund 100 for use in covering benefits for employees whose salary is not funded by Measure P. New to the FY25 expenditure was a $377,713 allocation to cover overhead for fund-supported salaries.
This ensures equitable cost-sharing and an accurate calculation of fully burdened hourly rates within the City’s framework. Ultimately, this expense reflects the true cost of personnel and aligns with the intent of Measure P.
REBUILDING PINNEY POOL
Expenditures
Adopted
Budget
Amended
Budget Expensed % Utilized
Design & Engineering $ 482,725 $ 482,725 $ 370,810 77%
During FY25, the City of Ridgecrest continued to make significant progress toward the Sgt.
John Pinney Pool Complex, one of the primary commitments made to voters through Measure P. Measure P generated $5,648,715 in total revenue during the fiscal year, while expenditures totaled $2,899,391, resulting in a $2,848,955 operating surplus. When combined with the $3,842,111 carried forward from FY2024, the Measure P Fund concluded FY25 with $6,691,066 available for future obligations, providing the financial capacity necessary to support continued construction, future bond obligations, and project completion.
Throughout FY25, Measure P funding continued to advance the Pinney Pool project from planning to demolition of the old complex. A total of $370,810 was expended on poolrelated design and engineering services, including professional design work, construction 8 administration, project management, contract services, and other pre-construction activities necessary to begin construction. In addition, the City incurred costs associated with project security and site preparation as work commenced. While no expenditures were recorded for pool bond payments or ongoing operations and maintenance during FY2025, these costs are anticipated in future fiscal years as construction progresses toward completion. The substantial Measure P carryover balance provides sufficient flexibility to meet upcoming construction expenditures, bond-related obligations, and other project costs while maintaining the City's commitment to responsible fiscal stewardship.
The transition of the Pinney Pool project from design into work represents a major milestone in delivering a long-promised community asset. Financially, the project remains well-positioned, with expenditures proceeding in a measured and deliberate manner while preserving significant reserves to support the remaining phases of construction. Based on the financial information reviewed, the Committee concludes that the City has continued to demonstrate prudent management of Measure P funds while maintaining adequate resources to complete the Pinney Pool project and satisfy future construction, security, and financing commitments.
PUBLIC OUTREACH
Revenue
Adopted
Budget
Amended
Budget Received % Utilized
Community Events $ 10,000 $ 10,000 $ 12,813 n/a
Expenditures
Adopted
Budget
Amended
Budget Expensed % Utilized
Community
Events/Outreach n/a n/a $ 85,796 n/a
Office Supplies n/a n/a $ 3,311 n/a
Ridgecrest City App n/a n/a $ 6,000 n/a
Community
Sponsorships n/a n/a $ 34,000 n/a
TOTAL EXPENDITURES $ 170,000
$
170,000 $ 129,107 75%
The City hosted five major events along with numerous Farmers Markets during FY25. These events were all very well attended and community feedback is very positive.
Expenditures included, but were not limited to, consumable supplies, items that are reused for multiple events, event insurance and health permits. The revenue in this category was generated by vendor fees collected at community events. Although the City’s goal is not to make money from these events, Farmer’s Market vendors are charged to help cover event costs.
In addition to the expenses listed in the table above, Measure P funds cover salaries, benefits and overhead expenses for the full- and part-time Public Outreach Admin Analysts.
These expenses are accounted for under Recruitment and Retention. 9 As was done in previous years, the City used Measure P Public Outreach funds to sponsor community events the City is not responsible for. In FY25 Measure P contributed to the Friends of the Fair for Fireworks and RidgeCon, The Ridgecrest Chamber of Commerce for Community Connection and the Economic Outlook Conference, and to High Sierra Cyclists for the Desert Classic Bike Race. All the sponsored events that benefited from Measure P funding were well-attended events that benefit Ridgecrest citizens and have a positive impact on the community.
10 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
The evaluation of the Fiscal Year 2025 financial data demonstrates that the City of Ridgecrest continues to practice responsible fiscal stewardship of Measure P funds, balancing immediate operational demands with robust long-term reserve planning.
Total Measure P Sales Tax Revenues reached $5,648,715 against $2,899,391 in expenditure, yielding an operating surplus of $2,848,955. This surplus, combined with Fund investment earnings, event revenues and prior-year carryovers, leaves the Measure P fund with a healthy balance of $6,691,066. Strategic budgeting and disciplined spending resulted in the fund’s ability to cover minor departmental overages while absorbing critical new structural expenditures like the Overhead Allocation. The Committee recommends continued strategic budgeting and tightly disciplined spending to protect the City’s ability to address the identified priorities amid declining revenue.
In addressing FY24 recommendations, the City reported that all workforce spending has been, and will continue to be, carefully reviewed each year so as to safeguard Measure P funding for the Sgt. John Pinney Pool complex. However, the Committee notes that personnel lines under Recruitment and Retention still expanded by 12% year-over-year. The Committee recommends Staff maintain rigorous scrutiny over workforce growth to fully safeguard funds for Sgt. John Pinney Pool complex. Additionally, the amount of Measure P dollars going towards salaries must be closely watched as they will also drive future Overhead allocations.
Efforts to increase awareness regarding sales tax collection requirements were not implemented in FY25 due to budget constraints, but staff is aware of the Committee’s recommendation and is actively looking for ways to address this recommendation in the future.
Meanwhile, the transition from design of the new Pinney Pool complex to active work marks a critical milestone, with $370,810 carefully deployed in FY25 to prepare for future bond and operational obligations without prematurely draining core reserves. Progress was also achieved in Public Outreach, where expenditures were kept to $129,107, and Staff successfully addressed this Committee’s FY24 recommendation by providing a detailed report that features itemized spending and clearer tracking of event attendance. While the Committee notes that future outreach reporting should continue to institutionalize these itemized, event-by-event breakdowns, the overall execution aligns tightly with voter intent.
The remaining multi-million-dollar reserve ensures that the City can confidently complete the Sgt. John Pinney Pool Complex, sustain its heightened public safety presence and community outreach, and retain a solid workforce well into the future. 5 This Page Intentionally Left Blank
Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority
STAFF REPORT
SUBJECT: Proposed Action To Approve Draft Minutes Of The Ridgecrest City Council Regular Meeting Dated September 16, 2026
PRESENTED BY: Ricca Charlon, City Clerk
SUMMARY:
Draft Minutes of the City Council / Successor Redevelopment Agency / Housing Authority / Financing Authority Regular Meeting Dated September 16, 2026 FISCAL IMPACT: None
ACTION REQUESTED: Approve minutes
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION: Action as requested
Submitted by: Ricca Charlon Action Date: Oct 7, 2026
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RIDGECREST CITY COUNCIL
SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
FINANCING AUTHORITY
HOUSING AUTHORITY
DRAFT MINUTES
Wednesday, September 16, 2026 Regular Session – 6:00 p.m.
Pursuant to California Government Code 54953(b)(1) one additional call-in location has been established for the Mayor to attend this meeting via teleconference at Hampton Inn Suites, 50 W. Daily Dr., Camarillo, CA 93010.
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
Council Present: Mayor Pro-Tem Blades; Vice Mayor Rajaratnam; Council Member Hayman; Council Member Gorman
Absent: Mayor Endicott
Staff Present: City Attorney M. Koczanowicz; City Manager Reed; City Clerk Charlon APPROVAL OF AGENDA - Motion To Approve – Rajaratnam - Gorman– 4 ayes; 1 absent
PRESENTATIONS
Hunger Action Month Proclamation
Constitution Week Proclamation
PUBLIC COMMENT OF ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA - R. Westa-Lusk; J. Jones; (*Mayor joined at 6:37 via call-in) T. Wiknich; M. Licitra; C. Hill; L. Gaceta; M. Sinnott
COUNCIL ANNOUNCEMENTS/DIRECTION
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. Proposed Action To Approve Draft Minutes Of The Regular Ridgecrest City Council Meeting Dated Sept. 2, 2026 Charlon
Motion To Approve – Hayman – Endicott – 5 ayes
DISCUSSION / ACTION ITEMS
2. Discussion Regarding The Board Of The Indian Wells Valley Groundwater Authority (IWVGA) Regular Meeting Council Member Hayman
Public comment - None
3. Resolution Amending Resolution No. 26-45 to Incorporate Omitted Uniform and Safety Shoe Allowance Provisions into the Management, Mid-Management and Confidential Compensation Plans Reed
Public comment -K. Russell; T. Bouyer
Motion To Approve – Hayman – Rajaratnam – 5 ayes
DRAFT MINUTES - CITY COUNCIL / SUCCESSOR REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY / FINANCING AUTHORITY / HOUSING AUTHORITY REGULAR – September 16, 2026
4. A Resolution To Reject All Bids – CDBG Leroy Jackson Sports Complex Upper Softball Field And Skate Park Shade Project Wegener
Public comment - None
Motion To Approve – Endicott – Hayman – 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 October 5, 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 October 13, 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 September 24, 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 October 6, 2026
OTHER COMMITTEES, BOARDS, OR COMMISSIONS
CITY MANAGER REPORT
FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
MAYOR AND COUNCIL COMMENTS
ADJOURNMENT – 7:55 p.m.
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Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority
STAFF REPORT
SUBJECT: Grant Acceptance For Ridgecrest Animal Shelter Software And Medical Funds Grant, Which Has Been Awarded From The Best Friends Animal Society PRESENTED BY: Ryan Marrone, Captain
SUMMARY:
The Ridgecrest Animal Shelter applied for a grant through the Best Friends Animal Society. “Best Friends” is a nonprofit corporation based out of Utah, whose mission is, “No More Homeless Pets.” Best Friends goal is to help organizations and agencies by providing funding for specific grants and/or needs. A primary goal/need of the Ridgecrest Animal Shelter is an animal shelter management software.
The Best Friends Animal Society grant has been awarded in the amount of $5000.00. This grant will be used for management software. If any funds are remaining, those funds will be used for shelter animal medical needs, focusing on vaccinating animals upon intake to reduce transmission among the shelter population.
The grant period begins September 01, 2026 and ends February 28, 2027.
FISCAL IMPACT: Revenue to the city in the amount of $5,000.00
REIMBURSEMENT GRANT- NO MATCHING REQUIRED
ACTION REQUESTED: Approval of Resolution
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION: Action as requested
Submitted by: Captain Ryan Marrone Action Date: October 7, 2026 This Page Intentionally Left Blank
RESOLUTION NO. 26-Xx
A RESOLUTION OF THE RIDGECREST CITY COUNCIL
AUTHORIZING ACCEPTANCE OF THE BEST FRIENDS ANIMAL
SOCIETY, ANIMAL SHELTER MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE
GRANT
WHEREAS, the Best Friends Animal Society, a non-profit corporation, whose mission is to help organizations and agencies by providing funding for specific grants and/or needs; and,
WHEREAS, the Ridgecrest Animal Shelter has the need to implement an animal shelter management software; and,
WHEREAS, the Ridgecrest Animal Shelter has been awarded grant funding in the amount of $5,000.00; and,
WHEREAS, the grant period is September 01, 2026 and ends February 28, 2027.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest authorizes the City Manager, or his designee, to approve this grant with the Best Friends Animal Society, and to sign and execute any and all documents relating to the grant award, including amendments, and is authorized to make any necessary adjustments to the FY27 budget.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 7
th day of October 2026, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
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: Introduction Of An Ordinance Of The City Council Of Ridgecrest Amending Portions Chapter 106 (Zoning) Of The Ridgecrest Municipal Code Regarding Housing Development PRESENTED BY: Heather Spurlock, Community Development Manager Background
The 2023–2031 Housing Element includes various programs to support housing development. On August 13, 2026, the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) found the Housing Element to be in substantial compliance with State Housing Element Law.
The Housing Element includes various programs that must be implemented to maintain compliance with State Housing Element Law. The amendments proposed in this ordinance implement specific actions identified in the adopted Housing Element.
The Draft Ordinance was presented to the Planning Commission on September 23, 2026. Following its review, the Planning Commission recommended that the City Council adopt the Draft Ordinance.
Proposed Ordinance
This proposed ordinance amends portions of the municipal code regarding housing development in accordance with Housing Element Program 15.
This ordinance adds definitions for “Group Homes” and “Room and Board Housing”. “Group homes” means housing shared by unrelated persons with disabilities that provide peer and other support for their residents’ disability related needs and in which residents share cooking, dining, and living areas, and may, in some group homes, participate in cooking, housekeeping, and other communal living activities. “Room and Board Housing” means a residential use in which lodging is provided to persons for compensation, with or without meals, where individual sleeping rooms are provided within a dwelling or residential structure and residents share common facilities such as kitchens, dining areas, living areas, or bathrooms.
The ordinance also includes the addition of permitted uses and conditional uses for each residential zone as required by California law.
R-1 Single Family Residential District.
Permitted uses:
Group Homes for six or fewer
Conditional uses:
Group homes for large facilities (seven or more)
Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority
STAFF REPORT
R-2 Low Density Multifamily Residential District.
Permitted uses:
Group Homes for six or fewer
Single Room Occupancy subject to site plan review
Conditional uses:
Group homes for large facilities (seven or more)
R-3 Medium Density Multifamily Residential District.
Permitted uses:
Group Homes for six or fewer
Single Room Occupancy subject to site plan review
Emergency Shelters
Conditional uses:
Group homes for large facilities (seven or more)
R-4 Medium Density Multifamily Residential District.
Permitted uses:
Group Homes for six or fewer
Single Room Occupancy subject to site plan review
Conditional uses:
Group homes for large facilities (seven or more)
The R-4 Multifamily District also includes an increase in maximum building height from 35 feet to 48.
Building height. Building height shall not exceed 48 feet.
The site plan review approval period will be increased from 18 months to 24 months. Housing development applications may be granted an additional 24-month extension by the Community Development Manager. The Code will also be clarified to specify that all site plans associated with a subdivision will be extended concurrently with the associated tentative map.
Sec. 106-176. - Subsequent site plan review.
A subsequent site plan review application shall be required prior to issuance of building permits or commission consideration if more than 18 24 months have lapsed since any prior site plan review for an uncompleted project or if the applicant revises the proposed project in such a way as to materially change the requirements as determined by the director. Housing development applications may be granted a 24- month extension by the Community Development Manager. Development application associated with subdivision maps shall run with the life of the map as permitted by the subdivision map act.
Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority
STAFF REPORT
Recommended Motions:
Motion To Waive Reading In Full Of An Ordinance Of The City Of Ridgecrest Amending Portions Of Chapter 106 (Zoning) Of The Ridgecrest Municipal Code Regarding Housing Development.
Requires A Second
Motion To Introduce, By Title Only, An Ordinance An Ordinance Of The City Of Ridgecrest Amending Portions Of Chapter 106 (Zoning) Of The Ridgecrest Municipal Code Regarding Housing Development.
Requires A Second
FISCAL IMPACT:
None
ACTION REQUESTED:
Approve recommended motions.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION:
Recommends Approval
Submitted by: Heather Spurlock Action Date: October 7, 2026 This Page Intentionally Left Blank
ORDINANCE NO. 26-Xx
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
RIDGECREST AMENDING PORTIONS OF CHAPTER 106
(ZONING) OF THE RIDGECREST MUNICIPAL CODE
REGARDING HOUSING DEVELOPMENT
WHEREAS, California Constitution Article XI, Section 7, enables the City of Ridgecrest (the “City”) to enact local planning and land use regulations; WHEREAS, the authority to adopt and enforce zoning regulations is an exercise of the City’s police power to protect the public health, safety, and welfare; WHEREAS, the City desires to ensure that residential development occurs in a prudently effective manner, in accordance with the goals and objectives of the General Plan and Housing Element and reasonable land use planning principles;
WHEREAS, the planning commission held a public hearing and considered the proposed ordinance and recommended for Council approval; and
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RIDGECREST, CALIFORNIA DOES HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The recitals above are true and correct and incorporated herein by reference.
SECTION 2. Section 106-2 (Definitions) of ARTICLE I (IN GENERAL) of Chapter 106 (ZONING) of Ridgecrest Municipal Code is hereby amended by the addition of the following definitions:
“Group homes” means housing shared by unrelated persons with disabilities that provide peer and other support for their residents’ disability related needs and in which residents share cooking, dining, and living areas, and may, in some group homes, participate in cooking, housekeeping, and other communal living activities.
“Room and Board Housing” means a residential use in which lodging is provided to persons for compensation, with or without meals, where individual sleeping rooms are provided within a dwelling or residential structure and residents share common facilities such as kitchens, dining areas, living areas, or bathrooms.
SECTION 3. Section 106-318 R-1 Single Family Residential District of ARTICLE I of Chapter 106 (ZONING) of the Ridgecrest Municipal Code is hereby amended to state the following (underlining denotes additions):
Sec. 106-318. - R-1 Single-Family Residential District. (a) One-family dwelling district. This section shall apply in the R-1 Single-Family Residential District unless otherwise provided in this Code.
Ordinance 26-Xx Page 2 of 7
(b) Permitted uses.
(1) A one-family dwelling.
(2) Accessory structures which shall be located on the same parcel of land unless the main building and the accessory structure are both located on adjacent lots which meet minimum area requirements.
(3) Private greenhouses and horticultural collections, flower and vegetable gardens and fruit trees not intended for commercial purposes. (4) Home occupations.
(5) Accessory dwelling units subject to the requirements of section 106-37. (6) Employee housing for six or fewer employees.
(7) Residential care homes for six or fewer persons
(8) Group homes for six or fewer persons
(c) Conditional uses. The following uses may be permitted subject to the application for a conditional use permit per division 3 of article II of this chapter. (1) Public and quasi-public uses of an educational or religious type including public and parochial elementary schools, junior high schools, high schools and colleges, day care centers, nursery schools, private nonprofit schools and colleges, churches, parsonages and other religious institutions.
(2) Public and private charitable institutions, hospitals, sanitariums, rest homes and nursing homes, not including hospitals, sanitariums, rest homes or nursing homes for mental or drug addict or liquor addict cases. (3) Public uses of an administrative, recreational, public service or cultural type including city, county, state or federal administrative centers and courts, libraries, museums, art galleries, police and fire stations and other public buildings, structures and facilities, public playgrounds, parks and community centers. (4) Electrical distribution substations, gas regulator stations, communications equipment buildings, public service pumping stations and/or elevated pressure tanks.
(5) Enclosed temporary construction materials storage yards required in connection with the development of a subdivision, and temporary subdivision sales offices and signs and model home display areas.
(6) Lodges, social halls, fraternal organizations operated by a nonprofit organization.
(7) Mobilehome parks.
(8) Parking lots.
(9) Residential care homes for seven to 14 persons.
(10) Group homes for large facilities (seven persons or more) Ordinance 26-Xx Page 3 of 7
SECTION 4. Section 106-319 R-2 Low Density Multifamily Residential District of ARTICLE IVof Chapter 106 (ZONING) of the Ridgecrest Municipal Code is hereby amended to state the following (underlining denotes additions):
Sec. 106-319. - R-2 Low Density Multifamily Residential District. (a) Application. This section shall apply in the R-2 Low Density Multifamily Residential District unless otherwise provided in this Code.
(b) Permitted uses.
(1) Multifamily residential dwellings.
(2) Accessory structures which shall be located on the same parcel of land unless the main building and the accessory structure are both located on adjacent lots which meet minimum area requirements.
(3) Home occupations.
(4) Private greenhouses and horticultural collections, flower and vegetable gardens and fruit trees not intended for commercial purposes. (5) Single-family dwellings.
(6) Accessory dwelling units subject to the requirements of section 106-37. (7) Group homes for six or fewer individuals
(8) Single Room Occupancy subject to site plan review
(c) Conditional uses. The following uses may be permitted subject to the application for a conditional use permit per division 3 of article II of this chapter. (1) Public and quasi-public uses of an educational or religious type including public and parochial elementary schools, junior high schools, high schools and colleges, day care centers, nursery schools, private nonprofit schools and colleges, churches, parsonages and other religious institutions.
(2) Public and private charitable institutions, hospitals, sanitariums, rest homes and nursing homes, but not including hospitals, sanitariums, rest homes or nursing homes for mental or drug addict or liquor addict cases. (3) Public uses of an administrative, recreational, public service or cultural type including city, county, state or federal administrative centers and courts, libraries, museums, art galleries, police and fire stations and other public buildings, structures and facilities, public playgrounds, parks and community centers. (4) Electrical distribution substations, gas regulator stations, communications equipment buildings, public service pumping stations and/or elevated pressure tanks.
(5) Enclosed temporary construction materials storage yards required in connection with the development of a subdivision, and temporary subdivision sales offices and model home display areas.
(6) Lodges, social halls, fraternal organizations operated by a nonprofit organization.
Ordinance 26-Xx Page 4 of 7
(7) Mobilehome parks.
(8) Parking lots.
(9) Bed and breakfast inns.
(10) Group homes for large facilities (seven persons or more) SECTION 5. Section 106-320 R-3 Multifamily Residential District of ARTICLE I V (ZONING DISTRICT REGULATIONS) of Chapter 106 (ZONING) of the Ridgecrest Municipal Code is hereby amended to state the following (underlining denotes additions):
Sec. 106-320. - R-3 Medium Density Multifamily Residential District. (a) Application. This section shall apply to the R-3 Medium Density Multifamily Residential District unless otherwise provided under this Code. (b) Permitted uses. The following uses may be permitted subject to the application for a site plan review pursuant to division 4 of article II of this chapter. (1) Multifamily residential dwellings.
(2) A one-family dwelling.
(3) Accessory structures which shall be located on the same parcel of land unless the main building and the accessory structure are both located on adjacent lots which meet minimum area requirements.
(4) Private greenhouses and horticultural collections, flower and vegetable gardens and fruit trees not intended for commercial purposes. (5) Home occupations.
(6) Accessory dwelling units subject to the requirements of section 106-37. (7) Emergency shelters.
(8) Employee housing.
(9) Residential care homes for six or fewer.
(10) Single room occupancy.
(11) Supportive housing.
(12) Transitional housing.
(13) Group homes for six or fewer individuals
(14) Single Room Occupancy subject to site plan review
(15) Emergency Shelters
(c) Conditional uses. The following uses may be permitted subject to the application for a conditional use permit per division 3 of article II of this chapter. (1) Public and quasi-public uses of an educational or religious type including public and parochial elementary schools, junior high schools, high schools and Ordinance 26-Xx Page 5 of 7
colleges, day care centers, nursery schools, private nonprofit schools and colleges, churches, parsonages and other religious institutions.
(2) Public and private charitable institutions, hospitals, sanitariums, rest homes and nursing homes, but not including hospitals, sanitariums, rest homes or nursing homes for mental or drug addict or liquor addict cases. (3) Public uses of an administrative, recreational, public service or cultural type including city, county, state or federal administrative centers and courts, libraries, museums, art galleries, police and fire stations and other public buildings, structures and facilities, public playgrounds, parks and community centers. (4) Electrical distribution substations, gas regulator stations communications equipment buildings, public service pumping stations and/or elevated pressure tanks.
(5) Enclosed temporary construction materials storage yards required in connection with the development of a subdivision, and temporary subdivision sales offices and model home display areas.
(6) Lodges, social halls, fraternal organizations operated by a nonprofit organization.
(7) Mobilehome parks.
(8) Parking lots.
(9) Bed and breakfast inns.
(10) Residential care homes for seven to 14 persons.
(11) Group homes for large facilities (seven persons or more) SECTION 6. Section 106-321 R-4 Multifamily Residential District of ARTICLE IV (ZONING DISTRICT REGULATIONS) of Chapter 106 (ZONING) of the Ridgecrest Municipal Code is hereby amended to state the following (underlining denotes additions):
Sec. 106-321. - R-4 Medium Density Multifamily Residential District. (a) Application. This section shall apply to the R-4 Medium Density Multifamily Residential District unless otherwise provided in this Code. (b) Permitted uses. The following uses may be permitted subject to the application for a conditional use permit per division 4 of article II of this chapter. (1) A one-family dwelling.
(2) Accessory structures which shall be located on the same parcel of land unless the main building and the accessory structure area both located on adjacent lots which meet minimum area requirements.
(3) Private greenhouses and horticultural collections, flower and vegetable gardens and fruit trees not intended for commercial purposes. (4) Home occupations.
Ordinance 26-Xx Page 6 of 7
(5) Accessory dwelling units subject to the requirements of section 106-37. (6) Emergency shelters.
(7) Employee housing.
(8) Residential care homes for six or fewer.
(9) Single room occupancy.
(10) Supportive housing.
(11) Transitional housing.
(12) Group homes for six or fewer individuals
(13) Single Room Occupancy subject to site plan review
(c) Conditional uses. The following uses may be permitted subject to the application for a conditional use permit per division 3 of article II of this chapter. (1) Public and quasi-public uses of an educational or religious type including public and parochial elementary schools, junior high schools, high schools and colleges, day care centers, nursery schools, private nonprofit schools and colleges, churches, parsonages and other religious institutions.
(2) Public and private charitable institutions, hospitals, sanitariums, rest homes and nursing homes, but not including hospitals, sanitariums, rest homes or nursing homes for mental or drug addict or liquor addict cases. (3) Public uses of an administrative, recreational, public service or cultural type including city, county, state or federal administrative centers and courts, libraries, museums, art galleries, police and fire stations and other public buildings, structures and facilities, public playgrounds, parks and community centers. (4) Electrical distribution substations, gas regulator stations, communications equipment buildings, public service pumping stations and/or elevated pressure tanks.
(5) Enclosed temporary construction materials storage yards required in connection with the development of a subdivision, and temporary subdivision sales offices and model home display areas.
(6) Lodges, social halls, fraternal organizations operated by a nonprofit organization.
(7) Mobilehome parks.
(8) Parking lots.
(9) Bed and breakfast i
(10) Residential care homes for seven to 14 persons.
(11) Group homes for large facilities (seven persons or more) (d) Site area. The minimum site area shall be 6,000 square feet. (e) Building height. Building height shall not exceed 48 feet.
Ordinance 26-Xx Page 7 of 7
SECTION 7. Section 106-176 Subsequent Site Plan Review of ARTICLE II(ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT L) of Chapter 106 (ZONING) of the Ridgecrest Municipal Code is hereby amended to state the following (underlining denotes additions):
Sec. 106-176. - Subsequent site plan review.
A subsequent site plan review application shall be required prior to issuance of building permits or commission consideration if more than 24 months have lapsed since any prior site plan review for an uncompleted project or if the applicant revises the proposed project in such a way as to materially change the requirements as determined by the director. Housing development applications may be granted a 24-month extension by the Community Development Manager.
Development application associated with subdivision maps shall run with the life of the map as permitted by the subdivision map act.
SECTION 8 The City Council finds the adoption of this Ordinance is exempt from CEQA pursuant to Public Resources Code Section California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Section 15061(b)(3)
SECTION 9. Any provision of the Ridgecrest Municipal Code or appendices thereto inconsistent with the provisions of this Ordinance, to the extent of such inconsistencies and no further, is hereby repealed or modified to the extent necessary to implement the provisions of this Ordinance.
SECTION 10. If any section, subsection, subdivision, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase of this Ordinance, or any part thereof is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by a decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance or any part thereof. The City Council hereby declares that it would have passed each section, subsection, subdivision, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more section, subsection, subdivision, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase would be subsequently declared invalid or unconstitutional.
SECTION 11. The Mayor shall sign and the City Clerk shall attest to the passage of this Ordinance. The City Clerk shall cause the same to be published once in the official newspaper within fifteen (15) days after its adoption. This Ordinance shall become effective thirty (30) days after adoption. The City Clerk is hereby further directed to transmit this ordinance to the California Department of Housing and Community Development within sixty (60) days of adoption of this Ordinance, pursuant to Government Code Section 65852.2(h).
Introduced and first read at a meeting of the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest held_______ APPROVED AND ADOPTED: This ___ day of ___________, 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: Introduction Of An Ordinance Of The City Council Of Ridgecrest Amending Portions Chapter 106 (Zoning) Of The Ridgecrest Municipal Code Regarding Residential Parking Requirements PRESENTED BY: Heather Spurlock, Community Development Manager Background
The 2023–2031 Housing Element includes various programs to support housing development. On August 13, 2026, the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) found the Housing Element to be in substantial compliance with State Housing Element Law.
The Housing Element includes various programs that must be implemented to maintain compliance with State Housing Element Law. The amendments proposed in this ordinance implement specific actions identified in the adopted Housing Element.
The Draft Ordinance was presented to the Planning Commission on September 23, 2026. Following its review, the Planning Commission recommended that the City Council adopt the Draft Ordinance.
Proposed Ordinance
The proposed ordinance amends portions of the Municipal Code related to residential parking requirements. Pursuant to Program 39 of the Housing Element, parking requirements for multifamily residential development are reduced to lower development costs and promote more efficient use of land.
The ordinance also establishes reduced parking requirements for supportive housing and senior housing, as required by the Housing Element. In addition, low-income and moderate-income housing developments would receive reduced parking requirements and would no longer be subject to guest parking requirements.
A full breakdown of the proposed parking requirement changes is provided in the attached ordinance table, “Residential Off-Street Parking Requirements.”
Recommended Motions:
Motion To Waive Reading In Full Of An Ordinance Of The City Of Ridgecrest Amending Portions Of Chapter 106 (Zoning) Of The Ridgecrest Municipal Code Regarding Residential Parking Requirements.
Requires A Second
Motion To Introduce, By Title Only, An Ordinance An Ordinance Of The City Of Ridgecrest Amending Portions Of Chapter 106 (Zoning) Of The Ridgecrest Municipal Code Regarding Residential Parking Requirements. Requires A Second
Ridgecrest City Council
Successor Redevelopment Agency
Financing Authority
Housing Authority
STAFF REPORT
FISCAL IMPACT:
None
ACTION REQUESTED:
Approve recommended motions.
CITY MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION:
Recommends Approval
Submitted by: Heather Spurlock Action Date: October 7, 2026 ORDINANCE NO. 26-Xx
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
RIDGECREST AMENDING PORTIONS OF CHAPTER 106
(ZONING) OF THE RIDGECREST MUNICIPAL CODE
REGARDING RESIDENTIAL PARKING REQUIREMENTS
WHEREAS, California Constitution Article XI, Section 7, enables the City of Ridgecrest (the “City”) to enact local planning and land use regulations; WHEREAS, the authority to adopt and enforce zoning regulations is an exercise of the City’s police power to protect the public health, safety, and welfare; WHEREAS, the City desires to ensure that residential development occurs in a prudently effective manner, in accordance with the goals and objectives of the General Plan and Housing Element and reasonable land use planning principles;
WHEREAS, the planning commission held a public hearing and considered the proposed ordinance and recommended for Council approval; and
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RIDGECREST, CALIFORNIA DOES HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The recitals above are true and correct and incorporated herein by reference.
SECTION 2. Section 106-367 (Residential parking requirements) of ARTICLE V ((OFF-STREET PARKING) of Chapter 106 (ZONING) of the Ridgecrest Municipal Code is hereby amended to state the following ():
Residential off-street parking requirements shall be as follows:
RESIDENTIAL OFF-STREET PARKING REQUIREMENTS
Single-family detached dwellings 2 open or enclosed spaces.
Multifamily dwelling units:
Studio -1 bedroom 1 parking space per unit.
2-3 bedrooms 2 parking spaces per unit.
4+ bedrooms 2.5 parking spaces per unit
Condominiums or townhouses:
Studio - 1 bedroom 1 parking space/dwelling unit.
2-3 bedrooms 2 parking spaces/dwelling unit.
4+ bedrooms 2.5 spaces/dwelling unit.
Ordinance 26-Xx Page 2 of 3
Note: In addition, one-third parking space shall
be provided for each dwelling unit for
guest parking and one space for each five units
shall be provided for recreational vehicles.
Mobile home park 2 parking spaces/dwelling unit plus 1 space for each 5 units for guests.
Housing for elderly Residential parking requirements for developments providing at least 50 percent of
the units exclusively for elderly persons shall be
reduced up to 50 percent upon site plan review
and approval by the city.
Emergency shelters Sufficient parking to accommodate all staff working in the emergency shelter, provided that
the standards do not require more parking for
emergency shelters than other residential or
commercial uses within the same zone
Supportive housing, transitional housing,
residential care facilities, group homes &
single room occupancy units
Sufficient parking to accommodate all staff
working in the housing, provided that the
standards do not require more parking than
other residential or commercial uses within the
same zone
Low-Income and Moderate-Income
Housing:
One parking space (optional covered) for lower
income single family units, studios, and SROs.
Guest parking requirements do not apply to all
affordable housing types.
SECTION 3. The City Council finds the adoption of this Ordinance is exempt from CEQA pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21080.25(b)(11) (reduction/elimination of minimum parking requirements), and directs staff to file a Notice of Exemption SECTION 4. Any provision of the Ridgecrest Municipal Code or appendices thereto inconsistent with the provisions of this Ordinance, to the extent of such inconsistencies and no further, is hereby repealed or modified to the extent necessary to implement the provisions of this Ordinance.
SECTION 5. If any section, subsection, subdivision, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase of this Ordinance, or any part thereof is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by a decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance or any part thereof. The City Council hereby declares that it would have passed each section, subsection, subdivision, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase Ordinance 26-Xx Page 3 of 3
thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more section, subsection, subdivision, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase would be subsequently declared invalid or unconstitutional.
SECTION 6. The Mayor shall sign and the City Clerk shall attest to the passage of this Ordinance. The City Clerk shall cause the same to be published once in the official newspaper within fifteen (15) days after its adoption. This Ordinance shall become effective thirty (30) days after adoption. The City Clerk is hereby further directed to transmit this ordinance to the California Department of Housing and Community Development within sixty (60) days of adoption of this Ordinance, pursuant to Government Code Section 65852.2(h).
Introduced and first read at a meeting of the City Council of the City of Ridgecrest held XX .
APPROVED AND ADOPTED: This ___ day of ___________, 2026 by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Travis Endicott, Mayor
ATTEST:
Ricca Charlon, City Clerk
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