City of San Bernardino
201 North E Street
San Bernardino, CA 92401
http://www.sbcity.org
Draft Minutes
FOR THE
REGULAR MEETING OF THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF SAN BERNARDINO, MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN BERNARDINO ACTING AS THE
SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY, MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN
BERNARDINO ACTING AS THE SUCCESSOR HOUSING AGENCY TO THE REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY, MAYOR AND
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN BERNARDINO ACTING AS THE HOUSING AUTHORITY, AND MAYOR AND CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN BERNARDINO ACTING AS THE SAN BERNARDINO JOINT POWERS FINANCING
AUTHORITY
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2025
3:30 PM
The Regular Meeting of the Mayor and City Council of the City of San Bernardino was called to order at 3:30 PM. by Mayor Pro-Tem Juan Figueroa on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at Feldheym Central Library, San Bernardino, CA.
CALL TO ORDER
Attendee Name Title Status Arrived
Theodore Sanchez Council Member, Ward 1 Present
Sandra Ibarra Council Member, Ward 2 Late 3:35 PM
Juan Figueroa Mayor Pro-Tem, Ward 3 Present
Fred Shorett Council Member, Ward 4 Present
Kim Knaus Council Member, Ward 5 Late 3:43 PM
Mario Flores Council Member, Ward 6 Present
Dr. Treasure Ortiz Council Member, Ward 7 Present
Helen Tran Mayor Absent
Eric Levitt City Manager Present
Sonia Carvalho City Attorney Present
Telicia Lopez Acting City Clerk Present
Perla Lopez Deputy City Clerk Present
Mayor Helen Tran
Council Members
Theodore Sanchez
Sandra Ibarra
Juan Figueroa
Fred Shorett
Kim Knaus
Mario Flores
Dr. Treasure Ortiz
Regular Meeting Draft Minutes October 1, 2025
Mayor and City Council of the City of San Bernardino Page 2 3:30 P.M.
CLOSED SESSION PUBLIC COMMENT
There were no public comments or requests to speak for Closed Session.
At 3:31 PM the City Council convened into closed session.
CLOSED SESSION
A) CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL EXISTING LITIGATION (Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(a) and (d)(1):
i.) Brian Pellis, et al. v. City of San Bernardino, et al., San Bernardino Superior Court Case No. CIVSB2226731
ii.) Christina Nedrebo v. City of San Bernardino, San Bernardino Superior Court Case No. CIVSB2402094
iii.) John Angel Parra v. City of San Bernardino United States District Court Case No. 5:24
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v-0097
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RM-S
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B) CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATOR (Pursuant to Government Code Section 54957.6)
Agency Designated Representative: City Attorney or other Mayor and City Council Designee
Unrepresented Employee: City Clerk
C) CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - Significant Exposure to Litigation (Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(2)): (1) Case
5:00 PM
The Regular Meeting of the Mayor and City Council of the City of San Bernardino was called to order at 5: 08 PM by Mayor Pro-Tem Juan Figueroa on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at Feldheym Central Library, San Bernardino, CA.
Attendee Name Title Status Arrived
Theodore Sanchez Council Member, Ward 1 Present
Sandra Ibarra Council Member, Ward 2 Present
Juan Figueroa Mayor Pro-Tem, Ward 3 Present
Fred Shorett Council Member, Ward 4 Present
Kim Knaus Council Member, Ward 5 Present
Mario Flores Council Member, Ward 6 Present
Dr. Treasure Ortiz Council Member, Ward 7 Present
Helen Tran Mayor Absent
Eric Levitt City Manager Present
Sonia Carvalho City Attorney Present
Telicia Lopez Acting City Clerk Present
Perla Lopez Deputy City Clerk Present
Regular Meeting Draft Minutes October 1, 2025
Mayor and City Council of the City of San Bernardino Page 3
INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Rev. Reginal D. Young from San Bernardino Pastor s United led the invocation, and Council Member Shorett led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
CLOSED SESSION REPORT
City Attorney Sonia Carvalho stated there was no reportable action from Closed Session.
PRESENTATIONS
1. Proclamation for California National Arts & Humanities Month in the City of San Bernardino – October 2025 (All Wards)
The Mayor and City Council presented the certificate to San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra, President Elect, Sonietta Martin Brown, Board Member and Damon Alexander, and Operations Manager, Marisol Sandovalto.
CITY MANAGER UPDATE
City Manager Eric Levitt provided the City Manager update. Highlights included the ribbon cutting of the Brier Campus, the EV Realty groundbreak ing for EV Truck charging, the grand opening of the first Jersey Mike’s in San Bernardino, the new branch of the National Veterans Chamber of Commerce, Feldheym Central Library celebrates 40 th anniversary, the return of Rendezvous Back to Route 66 on October 11 th, the annual Coptoberfest on October 9th, and the State of the City on October 14th.
PUBLIC COMMENTS FOR ITEMS LISTED AND NOT LISTED ON THE AGENDA Al Palazzo spoke about not being interviewed for the Director of Economic Development position and shared ideas for empowering residents and improving San Bernardino.
Ron Alvarado, Ward 1 resident and Parks and Recreation Commission Chair, highlighted upcoming community events and encouraged public input on arts engagement and the street traffic safety study.
Georgia L. spoke on her concerns about animal deaths, shelter mismanagement, and the need for accountability and improved care.
Dolores Armstead expressed concerns about bridges lighting in the sixth ward, also the handling of Council Member Ortiz ’s claim, “Oxbow” issues, improved downtown development, and overall change in City leadership.
John Schollenberger, Ward 7 resident, addressed comments made by a Planning Commissioner regarding the recuperative care facility project at Motel 6.
Erick Marquez commented on the city’s bankruptcy, express ed concern that the loss of property tax and the city ’s fire department has resulted in higher costs for residents. He also shared personal reflections on his previous public comments.
Regular Meeting Draft Minutes October 1, 2025
Mayor and City Council of the City of San Bernardino Page 4 Council Member Sanchez state d the public speaker had the right to express his views, but found his comments disrespectful, adding that Council Member Shorett was a Vietnam War veteran who had two Bronze Stars for bravery.
Sharon Negrete commented on working with Jasmine (Interim Director of Animal Services) and the shelter to organize 55 new volunteers and urged for action to address worsening conditions, staff shortages, and facility issues, including approval to create a surgery center to help attract a permanent veterinarian.
Jose Mendoza, Seni or Vice Commander of the California Disabled American Veterans, highlighted the organization’ s 100 years of service in San Bernardino and shared the upcoming veteran events, including retreats, community celebrations, and support programs.
Melissa Milender thanked the City Council for their leadership and praised Council Member Knaus for community engagement, urged accountability for homelessness programs, and invited participation in the city’s October 18 cleanup event with over 300 volunteers.
Jack Waterson, an Air Force veteran, stated that his constitutional rights were violated during a DUI checkpoint on September 26th.
Cesar Roldan, local business owner and member of the Rock Church, reference d a report naming San Bernardino the dirtiest city in America and proposed a citywide cleanup initiative involving local businesses, churches, and residents. He requested collaboration with city staff to align efforts, ensure safety, and support upcoming community cleanup events.
Hector Loera shared an uplifting message focused on positivity, unity, and mutual support. He encouraged his neighbors to care for one another, avoid judgment, and work collectively to improve the community.
Daniela Ramos, Inland Empire Immigration Youth Collective, urged the city to support immigrant families by limiting ICE collaboration and investing in resources for undocumented youth.
Hector Ruiz -Romo, founder of Redline Rescue, reported severe issues at the City Animal Shelter, including overcrowding and poor conditions. He urged the city to enforce spay/neuter laws, improve shelter transparency, and provide better medical care for animals.
Lydia Savala spoke on the successful low -cost spay and neuter efforts by the Paw Mission compared to the city’s struggling programs, citing mismanagement and lack of accurate shelter data.
Terry Boykins, Executive Director of Project Fighting Chance, highlighted the organization’s achievements, promoted the upcoming job-a-thon for youth, and noted improvements at Nunes Park.
Regular Meeting Draft Minutes October 1, 2025
Mayor and City Council of the City of San Bernardino Page 5 Stefanie Lenfestey, shelter volunteer, raised concerns about staff training, kennel operations, and adoption processes. She recommended better oversight, volunteer involvement, improved rescue coordination, and regular meetings to enhance animal care and adoptions.
Todd Warren, South Coast AQMD, highlighted funding and local programs supporting electric vehicles and zero- emission projects, emphasizing the benefits for air quality, public health, and job creation.
Acting City Clerk Telicia Lopez advised that written comments were also received and would be available on the City’s website for public review.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Items on the Consent Calendar are considered routine and are voted on in a single motion unless a council or staff member has pulled the item for more discussion.
RESULT: APPROVED THE CONSENT CALENDAR [70]
MOVER: Fred Shorett, Council Member, Ward 4
SECONDER: Sandra Ibarra, Council Member, Ward 2
AYES: Sanchez, Ibarra, Figueroa, Shorett, Knaus, Flores, Ortiz NOES: None
2. Approval of Various Mayor and City Council Meeting Minutes Recommendation:
It is recommended that the Mayor and City Council of the City of San Bernardino, California, approve the meeting minutes for the following dates:
1. November 1, 2023 Regular Meeting Draft Minutes
2. November 6, 2024 Regular Meeting Draft Minutes
3. June 4, 2025 Regular Meeting Draft Minutes
4. July 2, 2025 Regular Meeting Draft Minutes
5. September 3, 2025 Regular Meeting Draft Minutes
RESULT: APPROVED STAFF’S RECOMMENDATION [70]
MOVER: Fred Shorett, Council Member, Ward 4
SECONDER: Sandra Ibarra, Council Member, Ward 2
AYES: Sanchez, Ibarra, Figueroa, Shorett, Knaus, Flores, Ortiz NOES: None
3. American Rescue Plan Update (All Wards)
Recommendation:
It is recommended that the Mayor and City Council of the City of San Bernardino, California, receive and file this report providing an update on American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA)- f
unded expenditures as of June 30, 2025.
Regular Meeting Draft Minutes October 1, 2025
Mayor and City Council of the City of San Bernardino Page 6 RESULT: APPROVED STAFF’S RECOMMENDATION [70]
MOVER: Fred Shorett, Council Member, Ward 4
SECONDER: Sandra Ibarra, Council Member, Ward 2
AYES: Sanchez, Ibarra, Figueroa, Shorett, Knaus, Flores, Ortiz NOES: None
4. Authority to Execute a Charging Station Site License Agreement Between the City of San Bernardino and EV Charging Solutions (EVCS) for Electric Vehicle Charging Stations at Feldheym Library (Ward 1)
Recommendation:
It is recommended that the Mayor and City Council of the City of San Bernardino, California, authorize the City Manager, or designee, to execute the Charging Station Site License Agreement for a 10
-y
ear term with the option to renew for an
additional one (1) to ten (10) years, and any subsequent amendments, subject to the review and approval by the City Attorney as to form.
RESULT: APPROVED STAFF’S RECOMMENDATION [70]
MOVER: Fred Shorett, Council Member, Ward 4
SECONDER: Sandra Ibarra, Council Member, Ward 2
AYES: Sanchez, Ibarra, Figueroa, Shorett, Knaus, Flores, Ortiz NOES: None
5. Accept and Administer the FY 25/26 California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) Selective Traffic Enforcement Program (Step) Grant (PT26189) (All Wards)
Recommendation:
It is recommended that the Mayor and City Council of the City of San Bernardino, California, Adopt Resolution No. 2025
-372
:
1. A
uthorizing the City Manager to accept and administer the FY 2025/26 California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) Selective Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP) grant and;
2. Authorizing the Interim Director of Finance & Management Services to amend the FY 2025/26 Operating Budget by $575,000 in revenues and expenditures.
RESULT: ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 20253 72 [7 0]
MOVER: Fred Shorett, Council Member, Ward 4
SECONDER: Sandra Ibarra, Council Member, Ward 2
AYES: Sanchez, Ibarra, Figueroa, Shorett, Knaus, Flores, Ortiz NOES: None
Regular Meeting Draft Minutes October 1, 2025
Mayor and City Council of the City of San Bernardino Page 7
6. Approve Amendment No. 4 to the Agreement with RHA Landscape Architects – Planners Inc. for Nicholson Park Design Services in the amount of $100,000 for a total amount not to exceed $584,845 (Ward 6)
Recommendation:
It is recommended that the Mayor and City Council of the City of San Bernardino, California:
1. Approve Amendment No. 4 to the Professional Design Services Agreement with RHA Landscape Architects – Planners Inc. in the amount of $100,000 for Nicholson Park, and extending the term of the agreement to June 30, 2027; and
2. Authorize the City Manager or designee to execute all documents with RHA Landscape Architects – Planners Inc.
Council Member Flores announced that he would recuse himself from this item, due to residing near the project.
RESULT: APPROVED STAFF’S RECOMMENDATION [60]
MOVER: Fred Shorett, Council Member, Ward 4
SECONDER: Sandra Ibarra, Council Member, Ward 2
AYES: Sanchez, Ibarra, Figueroa, Shorett, Knaus, Ortiz
RECUSE: Mario Flores
7. Approval of FiveYear Capital Project Needs Analysis for FY 2026/27 to FY 2030/2031 for Measure I Expenditures (All Wards)
Recommendation:
It is recommended that the Mayor and City Council of the City of San Bernardino, California, adopt Resolution No. 2025
-37
3 approving the Five
-Y
ear Capital Project
Needs Analysis (FY 2026/2027 through FY 2030/31) for Measure I Expenditure.
RESULT: ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 20253 73 [7 0]
MOVER: Fred Shorett, Council Member, Ward 4
SECONDER: Sandra Ibarra, Council Member, Ward 2
AYES: Sanchez, Ibarra, Figueroa, Shorett, Knaus, Flores, Ortiz NOES: None
Regular Meeting Draft Minutes October 1, 2025
Mayor and City Council of the City of San Bernardino Page 8
ITEMS TO BE CONSIDERED FOR FUTURE MEETINGS
8. Discussion and Possible Action Regarding an Ordinance Establishing Penalties, up to and Including Suspension or Revocation of Business Licenses, for Hotels and Motels that Knowingly Rent or Provide Rooms for Prostitution, Drug Sales, Drug Manufacturing, or Other Illegal Activities (All Wards) – (Council Member Figueroa, Mayor Pro Tem))
RESULT: APPROVED ITEM FOR CONSIDERATION AT A FUTURE MEETING [70]
MOVER: Fred Shorett, Council Member, Ward 7
SECONDER: T heodore Sanchez, Council Member, Ward 1
AYES: Sanchez, Ibarra, Figueroa, Shorett, Knaus, Flores, Ortiz NOES: None
MAYOR & CITY COUNCIL UPDATES/REPORTS ON CONFERENCES & MEETINGS At this time, the Mayor and City Council provided updates to the community. Topics included praising the collaboration among colleagues, emphasizing open communication and teamwork to improve the city , renter protections , animal foster programs, local infrastructure projects, cultural celebrations, and effort s to support victims of human trafficking. Council Members encouraged public engagement in upcoming activities like pickleball tournaments, Route 66 celebrations, and fundraising events.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting of the Mayor and City Council was adjourned on Wednesday, October 1, 2025 at 6:55 PM.
The next joint special meeting of the Mayor and City Council and the Mayor and City Council Acting as the Successor Agency to the Redevelopment Agency will be held on October 14, 2025, at the California Theatre of The Performing Arts located at 562 West 4th Street, San Bernardino, California 92410. Open Session will begin at 4:00 PM.
Telicia Lopez, CMC
Acting City Clerk