Shafter City Council Resolution No. 2986
September 17, 2024
WHEREAS, on February 19, 2019, the City Council approved Resolution No. 18-342, a resolution of the City Council of the City of Shafter approving a two (2) year discretionary extension of time, thereby extending the recordation of the map to March 07, 2021; and WHEREAS, on September 27, 2018, the state legislature amended the Subdivision Map Act to provide an additional twenty-four (24) month extension of time for all tentatively approved subdivision maps approved on or after January 1, 2006, and not later than July 11, 2013, thereby extending the recordation of the map to March 07, 2023; and WHEREAS, on June 7, 2022, the City Council approved Resolution No. 2865, a resolution of the City Council of the City of Shafter approving a two (2) year legislative extension of time in accordance with Government Code Section 66452.26 for Tentative Tract No. 6704, thereby extending the recordation date of the map to March 07, 2025; and WHEREAS, Title 16, Section 4.080.B of the City Municipal Code (Subdivision Ordinance) and Government Code §66452.6(e) allow the City Council to approve extensions of time for approved, or conditionally approved, tentative subdivision maps if the request is received prior to the expiration date of the map; and
WHEREAS, the City of Shafter has historically approved subdivision map extensions of time in two-year intervals; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission did, on August 13, 2024, approve Resolution No. 24-446, a resolution of the Planning Commission of the City of Shafter recommending that the City Council approve a two-year extension of time for Tentative Tract Map No. 6704, subject to the conditions approved by the City Council on March 07, 2006, to expire on March 07, 2027; and
WHEREAS, the City Council through the City Clerk, did set Tuesday, September 17, 2024 at the hour of 7:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers of City Hall, 336 Pacific Avenue, Shafter, California, as the time and place for a public hearing before said City Council on said proposal, and notice of the public hearing was given in the manner provided in Title Sixteen of the Shafter Municipal Code; and
WHEREAS, the City of Shafter adopted a Negative Declaration for Tentative Tract No. 6704 on March 07, 2006 (Resolution No. 06-1823), therefore no additional CEQA analysis or documentation is required for the extension of time; and WHEREAS, at said City Council meeting held on September 17, 2024, the proposed extension of time for Tentative Tract Map No. 6704 was duly presented and considered and the City Council determined that Tentative Tract Map No. 6704 is eligible to receive a two-year extension of time for recordation of the final map.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Shafter, in a regular session assembled on the 17th day of September, 2024, resolved to recommend that the City Council approve a two-year extension of time for Tentative Tract Map No. 6704 (Exhibit “A”) located at the northeast corner of E. Fresno Avenue and N. Beech Avenue, subject to the conditions approved by the City Council on March 07, 2006 (Resolution No. 06-1823), to expire on March 07, 2027.
Shafter City Council Resolution No. 2986
September 17, 2024
PASSED AND ADOPTED THIS 17th DAY OF SEPTEMBER, 2024.
_______________________________
Chad Givens, Mayor
ATTEST
________________________________
Yazmina Pallares, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
________________________________
Marco A. Martinez, City Attorney
MANAGEMENT REPORT
CITY OF SHAFTER
CITY COUNCIL REPORT
MEETING DATE: September 17, 2024
FROM: Gabriel A. Gonzalez, City Manager
PREPARED BY: Johnny Rubio, IT Manager
SUBJECT: APPROVAL OF THE CIP ITEM BUDGET AMENDMENT IN THE AMOUNT OF $340,000 TO ALLOCATE APPROPRIATIONS FOR
THE IT SERVER UPGRADE
RECOMMENDATION
Council find the action is not defined as a “project” per Section 15378(b)(4) of the CEQA Guidelines; and authorize the purchase of enterprise server equipment in the amount of $340,000 for CIP project number IT00005; and approve the necessary budget adjustment to accommodate the purchase.
BACKGROUND
The City Council previously approved CIP project IT00005 as part of the Fiscal Year (FY) 24/25 operating and capital budget. The project, initially estimated at $200,000, covers the upgrade of the enterprise server equipment. However, updated estimates place the total cost at $340,000, which is $140,000 over the original budget.
This one-time purchase will enable the IT Department to upgrade to the latest server hardware, replacing outdated and unsupported equipment. This upgrade is critical to maintaining a robust and reliable enterprise server infrastructure. The revised estimate includes an additional $140,000 to add server hardware at a secondary datacenter, enhancing redundancy. This redundancy will ensure that IT staff can quickly recover from any event that renders the primary datacenter inoperable, minimizing potential downtime.
The quoted cost for the server hardware from GHA Technologies Inc. is $335,282. The remaining $4,000 will be used to contract a local Managed Service Provider (MSP) to:
1. Assist with the removal of the old server hardware, and
2. Support the installation of the new server equipment in our datacenter.
ANALYSIS
The Nutanix server upgrade would allow for the following:
APPROVAL OF THE CIP ITEM BUDGET AMENDMENT IN THE AMOUNT OF $340,000 TO
ALLOCATE APPROPRIATIONS FOR THE IT SERVER UPGRADE
- 2 -
• Migration of production virtual servers to new hardware • Server hardware resources sized for potential growth
• Avoid rises in cost renewals from VMware
• Allows redundancy between sites to ensure minimal downtime GHA Technologies Inc. is the desired vendor and has been working the Nutanix team to negotiate lower prices for the City of Shafter. The recommendation is to purchase the Nutanix server hardware via the vendor, GHA Technologies Inc., and have a local MSP (Managed Service Provider) assist with the physical installation of the server hardware.
FISCAL IMPACT
The City Council initially approved $200,000 for the enterprise server upgrade as part of the FY 24/25 budget. A revised estimate now places the total cost at $340,000, requiring a budget amendment of $140,000 to cover the additional expense.
CEQA ANALYSIS
The action is not defined as a “project” per Section 15378(b)(4) of the CEQA Guidelines because the action is the approval of a budget amendment for server upgrades and therefore, it is the creation of a governmental funding mechanism or other fiscal activity that does not involve any commitment to a specific project that can result in a potentially significant impact and not subject to CEQA.
APPROVED BY THE CITY ATTORNEY
Not Applicable
ALTERNATIVES
The Council may choose to reject the recommended action and direct staff to seek additional proposals or defer the upgrades to preserve funding. However, as previously noted, the cost increase is primarily due to the inclusion of redundancy, which is essential for minimizing downtime.
If the additional $140,000 is not approved, the IT Department can proceed with a scaled-down upgrade. However, this option could ultimately be more costly if the server hardware fails without redundancy in place. For these reasons, alternative actions are not recommended.
NEXT STEPS
If approved by the council, staff will proceed with the server upgrade purchase.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Quote 2854215
GHA Technologies, Inc.
Dept. #2090
PO Box 29661
Phoenix, Arizona 85038
United States
http://www.gha-associates.com
(P) 480-951-6865
(F) 480-951-6956
Date
Aug 14, 2024 10:23 AM EDT
Modified Date
Aug 14, 2024 10:45 AM EDT
Quotation (Open)
Quote #
2854215 - rev 1 of 1
Description
Nutanix - 3YR
SalesRep
Galentine, Amanda
(P) 570-914-9792
Customer Contact
Rubio , Johnny
[email protected]
Customer
City of Shafter (CO108572)
Rubio , Johnny
336 Pacific Ave
Shafter, CA 93263
United States
Bill To
City of Shafter
336 Pacific Ave
Shafter, CA 93263
United States
Ship To
City of Shafter
336 Pacific Ave
Shafter, CA 93263
United States
Customer PO: Terms:
Undefined
Ship Via:
FedEx Ground
Special Instructions: Carrier Account #:
# Description Part # Tax Qty Unit Price Total
1 SUBSCRIPTION, NUTANIX CLOUD INFRASTRUCTURE (NCI) PRO SOFTWARE LICENSE & PRODUCTION SOFTWARE SUPPORT SERVICE FOR 1 CPU CORE
9144618 Yes 96 $1,072.16 $102,927.36
Note: System 1
2 24/7 PRODUCTION LEVEL HW SUPPORT FOR NUTANIX HCI APPLIANCE 9170658 Yes 1 $1,332.50 $1,332.50 Note: System 1
3 24/7 PRODUCTION LEVEL HW SUPPORT FOR NUTANIX HCI APPLIANCE 9170658 Yes 2 $1,175.32 $2,350.64 Note: System 1
4 SUBSCRIPTION, NUTANIX CLOUD INFRASTRUCTURE (NCI) PRO SOFTWARE LICENSE & PRODUCTION SOFTWARE SUPPORT SERVICE FOR 1 CPU CORE
9144618 Yes 48 $1,072.16 $51,463.68
Note: System 1
5 24/7 PRODUCTION LEVEL HW SUPPORT FOR NUTANIX HCI APPLIANCE 9170658 Yes 2 $1,160.05 $2,320.10 Note: System 1
6 24/7 PRODUCTION LEVEL HW SUPPORT FOR NUTANIX HCI APPLIANCE 9170658 Yes 1 $1,317.18 $1,317.18 Note: System 1
7 SERVICE, NCI DISASTER RECOVERY DEPLOYMENT-PROTECT DOMAIN 9142789 Yes 1 $7,010.31 $7,010.31 Note: System 1
8 INFRASTRUCTURE MODERNIZATION SERVICE OFFERING. HCI CLUSTER DEPLOYMENT AT SINGLE SITE QUANTITY OF NODES TO DEPLOY. SEE DATA SHEET FOR MORE DETAILS. 9198639 Yes 3 $3,419.02 $10,257.06
Note: System 1
9 INFRASTRUCTURE MODERNIZATION SERVICE OFFERING. HCI CLUSTER DEPLOYMENT AT SINGLE SITE QUANTITY OF NODES TO DEPLOY. SEE DATA SHEET FOR MORE DETAILS. 9198639 Yes 3 $3,419.02 $10,257.06
Note: System 1
10 INFRASTRUCTURE MODERNIZATION SERVICE OFFERING. MIGRATION OF 3-TIER VMS TO NUTANIX AT A SINGLE SITE. 5-VM/2.5TB PACK. SEE DATA SHEET FOR MORE DETAILS. 9198289 Yes 10 $1,489.68 $14,896.80
Note: System 1
11 EDUCATION, NHCF INDIVIDUAL SEAT 9142965 Yes 2 $2,013.27 $4,026.54 Note: System 1
12 NX-3135-G9, 1 NODE 2X INTEL XEON-GOLD 5416S PROCESSOR (2.0 GHZ/ 16-CORE/ 150W, SAPPHIRE RAPIDS)
PER NODE
9145918 Yes 1 $10,604.83 $10,604.83
Note: System 2
13 32GB MEMORY MODULE (4800MHZ DDR5 RDM) 9145507 Yes 16 $166.32 $2,661.12
Note: System 2
14 12TB, 3.5IN HDD 9145451 Yes 4 $387.20 $1,548.80
Note: System 2
15 7.68 TB SSD 9145592 Yes 2 $1,425.42 $2,850.84
Note: System 2
16 LOM MODULE: BROADCOM 10GBE, 2- PORT, BASE-T NIC (BCM 57416) 9145546 Yes 1 $280.24 $280.24 Note: System 2
17 MELLANOX 25/10GBE, 2-PORT, NIC (CX6 25GBE) TRANSCEIVER NOT INCLUDED 9145568 Yes 1 $436.62 $436.62 Note: System 2
18 C13/C14, 10A, 4FT POWER CORD 9145560 Yes 2 $14.35 $28.70 Note: System 2
19 TPM 2.0 MODULE UNPROVISIONED 9145688 Yes 1 $77.16 $77.16 Note: System 2
20 NX-3235-G9, 2 NODE 2X INTEL XEON-GOLD 5416S PROCESSOR (2.0 GHZ/ 16-CORE/ 150W, SAPPHIRE RAPIDS)
PER NODE
9146210 Yes 1 $16,885.41 $16,885.41
Note: System 2
21 32GB MEMORY MODULE (4800MHZ DDR5 RDM) 9145507 Yes 32 $166.32 $5,322.24 Note: System 2
22 12TB, 3.5IN HDD 9145451 Yes 8 $387.20 $3,097.60
Note: System 2
23 7.68 TB SSD 9145592 Yes 4 $1,425.42 $5,701.68
Note: System 2
24 LOM MODULE: BROADCOM 10GBE, 2- PORT, BASE-T NIC (BCM 57416) 9145546 Yes 2 $280.24 $560.48 Note: System 2
25 MELLANOX 25/10GBE, 2-PORT, NIC (CX6 25GBE) TRANSCEIVER NOT INCLUDED 9145568 Yes 2 $436.62 $873.24 Note: System 2
26 C13/C14, 15A, 4FT POWER CORD 9145641 Yes 2 $10.03 $20.06 Note: System 2
27 TPM 2.0 MODULE UNPROVISIONED 9145688 Yes 2 $77.16 $154.32 Note: System 2
28 NX-3235-G9, 2 NODE 2X INTEL XEON-GOLD 5415+ PROCESSOR (2.9 GHZ/ 8-CORE/ 150W, SAPPHIRE RAPIDS)
PER NODE
9146209 Yes 1 $16,919.26 $16,919.26
Note: System 2
29 32GB MEMORY MODULE (4800MHZ DDR5 RDM) 9145507 Yes 24 $166.32 $3,991.68 Note: System 2
30 18TB, 3.5IN HDD 9145456 Yes 8 $496.32 $3,970.56
Note: System 2
31 7.68 TB SSD 9145592 Yes 4 $1,425.42 $5,701.68
Note: System 2
32 LOM MODULE: BROADCOM 10GBE, 2- PORT, BASE-T NIC (BCM 57416) 9145546 Yes 2 $280.24 $560.48 Note: System 2
33 MELLANOX 25/10GBE, 2-PORT, NIC (CX6 25GBE) TRANSCEIVER NOT INCLUDED 9145568 Yes 2 $436.62 $873.24 Note: System 2
34 C13/C14, 15A, 4FT POWER CORD 9145641 Yes 2 $10.03 $20.06 Note: System 2
35 TPM 2.0 MODULE UNPROVISIONED 9145688 Yes 2 $77.16 $154.32
Subtotal: $309,729.61
Tax (8.2500%): $25,552.69
Shipping: $0.00
Misc: $0.00
Total: $335,282.30
Note: System 2
36 NX-3135-G9, 1 NODE 2X INTEL XEON-GOLD 5415+ PROCESSOR (2.9 GHZ/ 8-CORE/ 150W, SAPPHIRE RAPIDS)
PER NODE
9145917 Yes 1 $10,621.08 $10,621.08
Note: System 2
37 32GB MEMORY MODULE (4800MHZ DDR5 RDM) 9145507 Yes 12 $166.32 $1,995.84 Note: System 2
38 18TB, 3.5IN HDD 9145456 Yes 4 $496.32 $1,985.28
Note: System 2
39 7.68 TB SSD 9145592 Yes 2 $1,425.42 $2,850.84
Note: System 2
40 LOM MODULE: BROADCOM 10GBE, 2- PORT, BASE-T NIC (BCM 57416) 9145546 Yes 1 $280.24 $280.24 Note: System 2
41 MELLANOX 25/10GBE, 2-PORT, NIC (CX6 25GBE) TRANSCEIVER NOT INCLUDED 9145568 Yes 1 $436.62 $436.62 Note: System 2
42 C13/C14, 10A, 4FT POWER CORD 9145560 Yes 2 $14.35 $28.70 Note: System 2
43 TPM 2.0 MODULE UNPROVISIONED 9145688 Yes 1 $77.16 $77.16 Note: System 2
SHIPPING NOT CALCULATED
Sales tax calculation is estimated and subject to change. Terms Definition: Unless agreed upon otherwise; Net 30 terms, cash in the GHA bank 30 days from the date of shipment. Lease payment calculations are estimated and may include sales tax in the payment amount. You can obtain an accurate lease quote from our leasing company.
Rates are subject to change without notice.
GHA is an authorized and leading supplier for Microsoft, HP, Apple, Dell, Lenovo, VMWare, IBM and Cisco. GHA does not source any of these products from the gray market. If you have a pending quotation from a competitor that is significantly less in price, that may be a strong indication of gray market involvement. Please immediately bring this to the attention of your sales professional who can verify with the manufacturer for your benefit and protection. Your sales representative can also talk to you about the risks associated with doing business with a gray market supplier. -The prices quoted may change due to market conditions beyond our control. -GHA cannot be responsible for manufacturer availability or delays. -No verbal quotations or promises can be honored unless set forth herein. -Due to many people working from home, GHA will not be responsible for the boxes if lost or stolen after the delivery has been made, and if they are lost or stolen, you still agree to pay your GHA invoice. Signature will be required on all shipments. -Handling Fees: Handling fees charged on shipments are in addition to the freight and insurance charges and vary. -Returns Policy: Cloud Service Provider CSP orders for Microsoft require at least 30 days of cancellation notice from Buyer. Buyer agrees to pay for any cloud subscription usage incurred. For all other CSP s, GHA will pass through and honor the cancellation policy as stated in the original contract whether 30, 60 or 90 days of cancellation notice is required. Custom computers and technology orders are non-cancellable and non-returnable. No return will be accepted after 30 days from the invoice date. Goods accepted for credit upon return will be subject to handling/restocking charge, which shall be not less than 15% of the price of Goods. Custom-made Goods are not subject to cancellation or return under any circumstances. In no case are Goods to be returned without first obtaining Seller's written permission. Goods must be securely packed in the original packaging and delivered to Seller in an undamaged condition with Buyer being solely responsible for paying all return freight expenses and keeping the GHA invoice current within 30 days from the date of shipment regardless of the reason for a return. All returns must be accompanied by an authorized RMA number, which is valid for 15 days after date of issuance. GHA Technologies makes NO WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY PARTICULAR PURPOSE with respect to the goods described hereon. Professional Service Organizations are separate companies from GHA. GHA is not responsible for their workmanship and there is no right to offset payment.
-International shipments/returns: Customer is responsible to pay all VAT, duties, customs charges, freight forwarding services, storage, handling, foreign exchange rates/fees, miscellaneous fees from any country, expedited or return freight expenses. Customer shall be liable; GHA is NOT responsible. GHA is not responsible for any return shipment expenses.
-Supplier represents and warrants that it is an equal-opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, creed, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, marital or veteran status, or any other basis that is prohibited by law. -This document shall be governed by the laws of the State of Arizona. -You may view all Terms & Conditions at: https://www.gha-associates.com/terms-and-conditions - . -THIS QUOTE HAS BEEN PROVIDED FOR CLIENT AND GHA PURPOSES ONLY** Page 182 of 199 -CORPORATE OFFICE: (REMIT PAYMENTS TO THE DEPARTMENT NUMBER AND PO BOX LISTED ABOVE; NO PAYMENTS SHOULD BE MAILED TO THE CORPORATE OFFICE) GHA Technologies, Inc. 8998 E. Raintree Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85260
MANAGEMENT REPORT
CITY OF SHAFTER
CITY COUNCIL REPORT
MEETING DATE: September 17, 2024
FROM: Gabriel A. Gonzalez, City Manager
PREPARED BY: David Franz, Community Services Director
SUBJECT: DISCUSSION AND DIRECTION FOR THE FRIENDS OF THE
LIBRARY SCULPTURE DONATION
RECOMMENDATION
This item is presented for discussion and direction.
BACKGROUND
The Friends of the Shafter Library (FOSL) have proposed donating an original outdoor sculpture to replace the existing street lamp located at the south entrance of the Shafter Library & Learning Center (SLLC). The current lamp is a conventional street lamp positioned outside the double doors of the main entrance.
FOSL has been working with artist Joy Fire, a metal artist and designer, to develop a unique sculpture design for over six months. The proposed sculpture is a tree with integrated lighting elements designed to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the SLLC entrance. The City staff has been consulted throughout the design process.
ANALYSIS
The proposed sculpture, designed by Joy Fire, will be fabricated from steel and will feature a color patina finish. The designed sculpture stands 9 feet tall with an 8-foot diameter, featuring a hollow interior to accommodate wiring and LED lights within glass orbs. The sculpture is estimated to cost approximately $20,000 and will be donated by the Friends of the Shafter Library to the City.
Initial discussions with a structural engineer have indicated that installation costs could be absorbed within the current budget allocation. However, per the City's procurement policy, if the costs were to exceed estimates, it would require Council approval.
FISCAL IMPACT
The sculpture is to be donated and the cost for the sculpture installation is estimated to be covered within the current Community Services budget. No additional budget allocation is required at this time.
CEQA ANALYSIS
DISCUSSION AND DIRECTION FOR THE FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY SCULPTURE DONATION - 2 -
This item does not require discretionary action as it is for informational purposes only.
Therefore, it does not trigger CEQA review.
APPROVED BY THE CITY ATTORNEY
ALTERNATIVES
Presented for Council feedback.
NEXT STEPS
Direct staff to communicate with Friends of the Shafter Library any feedback on the design.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Tree Sculpture Letter to City
2. Tree Sculpture Rendering
3. Tree Sculture Rendering 2
Lighted Metal Tree Sculpture Proposal
Date: August 19, 2024
Submitted to: David Franz, City of Shafter Community Services Director The Friends of the Shafter Library are interested in replacing the standing light fixture located near the Front doors of the Shafter Library and Learning Center building with a lighted metal tree sculpture. We would like to commission a metal artist to create the sculpture for us.
We are interested in replacing the current light because we think bringing a whimsical sculpture to the front of the library will help us draw community members into the library space. As we have invested funds into murals and other artistic elements in and around the SLLC space, we have heard repeatedly from Shafter Library users how the art in our library is what makes our space special and sets it far in front of other libraries in our area. Art makes people happy and draws them to the library. Our goal as a Friends group is to create a fun and magical atmosphere in our library, and art helps us to achieve this goal.
We would also like to suggest that by adding art to the library that we are contributing to the overall aesthetic improvement and welcoming and vibrant atmosphere of our downtown space.
We also think that by valuing artists and their work that we are helping to inspire the next generation of creators in Shafter. We hope that as our kids grow and dream that they will always find a place for themselves and their work at the SLLC and in Shafter.
We have been exploring the idea of this lighted tree sculpture for over 6 months now and have connected with a Blacksmith in Santa Ana, California named Joy Fire. She is an exceptional artist and we have been blown away by her work. Joy is also a mother of a young daughter, and is now expecting her second child. The whimsy and creativity that she brings to this project as a mother with experience reading and learning with her own child is truly unmatched. For example, as we were discussing the tree sculpture, Joy had the idea to include a hidden “Hungry Caterpillar” in the tree so that kids have an added element of fun as they look at the sculpture and search for the caterpillar. She is absolutely the right person for this job.
We have met with Joy three times and have been impressed with her preparedness and availability to answer our questions as we explore this project. She really understands what we are trying to accomplish with this tree sculpture.
As the Friends of the Shafter Library think about this project, we would like to propose that the Friends of the Shafter Library cover all costs associated with the production of the sculpture. We anticipate that this will likely be in the $20,000 range. We would like to request that the City cover all costs associated with the installation of the sculpture.
This would include: preparing a 5’x5’ pad for the sculpture to rest. The sculpture will be approximately 1100lbs. This pad should also include electric wiring in the center to accommodate the attachment of the wiring that is located inside the sculpture. Four anchors would be required to secure the sculpture to the cement pad. The completed sculpture would be approximately 9’ tall and 8’wide.
We hope the City of Shafter will consider partnering with us on this project.
Respectfully submitted,
Katie Wiebe
President, Friends of the Shafter Library
MANAGEMENT REPORT
CITY OF SHAFTER
CITY COUNCIL REPORT
MEETING DATE: September 17, 2024
FROM: Gabriel A. Gonzalez, City Manager
PREPARED BY: Michael James, Public Works Director, Alex Gonzalez, Deputy Public Works Director
SUBJECT: APPROVAL OF A GENERAL FUND BUDGET APPROPRIATION OF $500,000 TO CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM PROJECT
#PK00009 FOR COMPLETING A SECOND PHASE OF
IMPROVEMENTS AT THE SHAFTER SKATEPARK
RECOMMENDATION
Council find the requested action is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act; and authorize a General Fund budget appropriation of $500,000 to Capital Improvement Program Project #PK00009 for completing a second phase of improvements at the Shafter Skatepark.
BACKGROUND
At a Council meeting held on August 20, 2024, Public Works staff presented an update on the Shafter Skatepark Improvement Project, which included a summary of the equipment upgrades and amenities completed through a Clean California grant. Also covered were additional improvements yet to be funded that could further enhance the facility for skatepark users and minimize the facility's impact on neighboring properties. The meeting agenda item was mainly used for discussion purposes so the Council could provide input to staff for developing strategies, budgets, and plans for formal approval at a future meeting. The Council was supportive of proceeding with additional site improvements through short-term and long-term objectives for the second phase of improvements at the skatepark.
ANALYSIS
The short-term objectives focus on installing fencing or other barriers to separate the skatepark parcel from the Youth Center parking lot and the vacant lot to the east. Engineering would also be required to design the restroom building and on-site parking. These short-term objectives are estimated to cost $100,000. The long-term objectives would be constructing the restroom and parking lot at an estimated additional cost of $400,000. Because neither of the objectives is funded, the Council needs to approve budget action for work to proceed.
FISCAL IMPACT
APPROVAL OF A GENERAL FUND BUDGET APPROPRIATION OF $500,000 TO CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM PROJECT #PK00009 FOR COMPLETING A
SECOND PHASE OF IMPROVEMENTS AT THE SHAFTER SKATEPARK
- 2 -
An appropriation of $500,000 in General Fund reserves is the suggested budget action to fund future skatepark improvements. This funding should specifically be allocated to Capital Improvement Project #PK00009.
CEQA ANALYSIS
The project consists of the engineering and construction of fencing/barriers, parking lot, and restrooms that are accessory to the existing Shafter skatepark. Therefore, per Section 15311 of the CEQA Guidelines (Accessory Structures), the project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act.
APPROVED BY THE CITY ATTORNEY
Not Applicable
ALTERNATIVES
The Council can authorize a smaller General Fund appropriation of $100,000 and direct staff to only complete the short-term objectives for improving the skatepark while still preserving General Fund proceeds for other projects or uses.
NEXT STEPS
Staff will develop plans to complete additional improvements and present them to the Council for approval at a future meeting.
ATTACHMENTS
None
MANAGEMENT REPORT
CITY OF SHAFTER
CITY COUNCIL REPORT
MEETING DATE: September 17, 2024
FROM: Gabriel A. Gonzalez, City Manager
PREPARED BY: Michael James, Public Works Director
SUBJECT: APPROVAL OF LETTER OF SUPPORT AND FUNDING
COMMITMENT FOR MULTI-AGENCY GRADE SEPARATION
GRANT APPLICATION
RECOMMENDATION
Council find the requested action is not defined as a “project” per Section 15378(b)(5) of the CEQA Guidelines; authorize a letter of support for a Federal Railroad Association grant application to fund a Burlington Northern and Santa Fe Way grade separation project at Cherry Avenue; and authorize a funding commitment of $6,800,000 as a local match for said grant project application through the use of traffic impact fee proceeds and funding partnerships with private developers.
BACKGROUND
Staff from the cities of Shafter and Bakersfield, the County of Kern, and the Burlington Northern and Santa Fe Way Railway (BNSF) are collaborating on a grant application to be submitted to the Federal Railroad Association for simultaneously funding two grade separation projects. Both projects would occur at current at-grade BNSF crossings, one at Renfro Road and the other at Cherry Avenue. The estimated value of the Renfro Road and Cherry Avenue projects are $40 and $44 million, respectively.
Grant writing is being performed by a consultant and is fully funded by BNSF. This consultant has requested a letter of support from the City, elected officials, and community leaders to enhance the application's chances for funding. Additionally, the consultant has requested a City funding commitment to match the potential grant funding. The funding match requirement is 20% of the total project costs.
Applications are due September 23, 2024. To facilitate the grant application covering two project sites for the benefit of multiple jurisdictions, the County of Kern will be the lead grant applicant.
ANALYSIS
Shafter could be considered the primary beneficiary of the Cherry Avenue project because the roadway is entirely within its jurisdictional city limits and has the potential to ultimately serve as a significant transportation link between the current and future urbanized areas in the City. Further, this link helps ensure the orderly and safe
APPROVAL OF LETTER OF SUPPORT AND FUNDING COMMITMENT FOR MULTI-AGENCY
GRADE SEPARATION GRANT APPLICATION
- 2 -
movement of vehicles and alleviates the traffic impacts on the Core City and neighboring disadvantaged communities.
Other beneficiaries include BNSF because the project would eliminate an at-grade crossing and the County of Kern because it is responsible for unincorporated areas immediately west of the rail crossing. Based on the current construction cost estimate of $44 million, the required 20% grant match calculates to $8.8 million. The County and BNSF have each pledged $1 million. Given the benefits of its planned industrial development along Cherry Avenue between Santa Fe Way and Seventh Standard Road, the Wonderful Company (Wonderful) has agreed to participate with the City to cover the $6.8 million needed to complete the match amount. The proposed balance breakdown is $3 million for the City and $3.8 million for Wonderful.
The FRA grant application will likely require that $6.8 million be assigned to one stakeholder, preferably a public agency. Therefore, an agreement with Wonderful will ultimately be needed to document and track Wonderful's funding participation.
FISCAL IMPACT
Financial pledge of approximately $3 million in local match funding. However, the actual funding would not likely be needed any sooner than the start of Fiscal Year 2025- 2026. BNSF fully funds the grant writing services. No budget action is required.
CEQA ANALYSIS
The action is not defined as a “project” per Section 15378(b)(5) of the CEQA Guidelines because the action is approving a letter of support and therefore, it is organizational and administrative activity that will not result in direct or indirect physical changes to the environment and not subject to CEQA.
APPROVED BY THE CITY ATTORNEY
Not Applicable
ALTERNATIVES
The Council can reject, reduce, or defer a project funding commitment. However, doing so could impact the City's ability to help secure over $30 million in grant funding to expedite a much-needed traffic safety improvement for current and future roadway conditions. Therefore, alternative action is not recommended.
NEXT STEPS
Before September 23rd, a grant funding application will be submitted to the FRA. Application updates will be shared at future Council meetings.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Draft Support and Funding Committment Letter
2. Project Fact Sheet
September 23, 2024
The Honorable Amit Bose
Administrator
Federal Railroad Administration
1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE
Washington, DC 20590
RE: FRA’S RAILROAD CROSSING ELIMINATION PROGRAM (CA)
Dear Administrator Bose:
The City of Shafter City Council wishes to express its strong support for the Kern County Railroad Crossing Elimination (RCE) grant application to replace two existing local street crossings of the BNSF Railway with a grade separation: one at Cherry Avenue in the City of Shafter, and one at Renfro Road in northwest metropolitan Bakersfield. The proposed project is the result of a close collaboration between Kern County, the cities of Bakersfield and Shafter, the Greater Bakersfield Grade Separation District, and BNSF, a strong partnership of public and private entities committed to improving safety and quality of life in the community. The proposed grade separations will dramatically improve safety and connectivity on the corridor and for the surrounding communities.
These crossings have safety concerns that need to be addressed swiftly: in the last four years alone, there have been three incidents at the Cherry Avenue crossing. Eliminating these crossings will prevent collisions, reduce delays for roadway users while eliminating potential service interruptions for rail, and enhance overall safety for the Shafter and Bakersfield communities.
Beyond safety, this project will directly benefit the quality of life for residents. By enhancing connectivity, the project will help create a more livable environment and allow residents and workers better access to jobs and opportunities. The crossings are situated within and adjacent to communities identified as disadvantaged per federal guidelines. With high air particulate matter levels and a large low-income population, these communities deserve the improved mobility, safety, and reduced congestion and air pollution the project provides.
Given the importance of a grade separation the Cherry Avenue rail crossing and grant funding match required to its residents, businesses, and the surrounding region, Shafter will commit funds to help ensure the project is funded. At this time, through the use of traffic impact fee proceeds and partnerships with local developers, this funding commitment will be up to $6.8 million.
This transformative project will make a dramatic difference in the safety and mobility of our community and closely aligns with the grant program criteria. We respectfully request that you give the Kern County RCE grant application your full and fair consideration.
Sincerely,
Chad Givens
Mayor
Kern County Railroad Crossing Elimination
Grant Program Application 2024:
Cherry Ave and Renfro Road Railroad Crossing Elimination and Safety Project The proposed project aims to enhance safety at two critical crossings: one located at Cherry Ave in the City of Shafter and the other at Renfro Road in the City of Bakersfield. The project proposes grade separations at both crossings, dramatically improving safety and connectivity on the corridor and for the surrounding communities. This project also aims to accommodate the robust residential, commercial, and industrial development that the region of northwest Bakersfield and south Shafter has experienced over the past two decades. The Project is the result of a close collaboration between Kern County, the cities of Bakersfield and Shafter, the Greater Bakersfield Grade Separation District, and BNSF, a strong partnership of public and private entities committed to improving safety and quality of life in the community.
Factsheet
Total Project Cost:
$80,000,000
Federal Funding Needs:
$64,000,000
(80% of the project cost) Contact Us: Joshua Champlin, PE Public Works Director Kern County
(661) 862-5100
[email protected]
Project Benefits:
• Improved Safety - In the
last four years alone, there
have been three incidents
at the Cherry Avenue
crossing. Eliminating these
crossings is a critical safety
issue.
• Mobility Benefits -
Eliminating these crossings
will reduce delays for both
roadway users and rail.
• Community Benefits –
The Project will improve
access for residents to
jobs and opportunities
while reducing congestion
and emissions, including
in disadvantaged
communities.
Esri, NASA, NGA, USGS, FEMA | Esri Community Maps Contributors, City of Bakersfield, City of Shafter, California State Parks, Esri, TomTom, Garmin, SafeGraph, GeoTechnologies, Inc, METI/NASA, USGS, Bureau of Land Management, EPA, NPS, US Census Bureau, USDA, USFWS
Reina St.
Renfro Rd.
Allen Rd.
Renfro Rd.
Kratzmeyer Rd. Olive Dr. Rudd Ave.
Seventh Standard Rd. Cherry Ave.
Burbank St.
Orange St.
E. Lerdo Hwy.
Zachary Ave.
Santa Fe Way
Los Angeles St.
Seventh Standard Rd.
Stockdale Hwy.
Rosedale Hwy
BAKERSFIELD
SHAFTER
BNSF RAILWAY
UNION PACIFIC RAILROAD
UNION PACIFIC RAILROAD
43 43
58 99
Snow Rd.
Hageman Rd.
Proposed Closure
of Existing
Crossing
Proposed Grade
Separation
(Future Crossing)
Proposed Grade Separation
of Existing Crossing
LEGEND:
Future Major Roadways
Future Housing Developments
Future Jobs
Disadvantaged Communities Area
0 1 2 Miles
MANAGEMENT REPORT
CITY OF SHAFTER
CITY COUNCIL REPORT
MEETING DATE: September 17, 2024
FROM: Gabriel A. Gonzalez, City Manager
PREPARED BY: Carol Chavolla, HR Manager
SUBJECT: DISCUSSION TO UTILIZE THE FORMER MODIFIED
COMMUNITY CORRECTIONAL FACILITY FOR RECREATIONAL
ACTIVITIES OPEN TO THE COMMUNITY
RECOMMENDATION
This item is presented for discussion and direction.
BACKGROUND
Previously, the City has discussed repurposing the former Modified Community Correctional Facility (MCCF) for recreational sports and activities. Recently, the City has solicited Request for Qualifications (RFQ) from experienced consulting firms to conduct a feasibility study of the potential and best recreational sports that could be played at the MCCF.
To this end, recently an opportunity has been presented by a group of local organizations. The local organizations have expressed an interest in utilizing the Modified Community Correctional Facility (MCCF) as a haunted house attraction for the upcoming Shafter Harvest Festival. The MCCF’s unique layout and architecture offer an ideal setting for a haunted house attraction. Besides the haunted house, the Harvest Festival will feature food trucks and a Trunk or Treat, catering to various age groups including children, teenagers, and families. A designated area will be available for younger children to ensure inclusivity within the haunted house experience.
The Shafter Harvest Festival will be sponsored by the Shafter Lions Club on October 30, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. off Ash Avenue by the MCCF. The Shafter Lions Club has submitted a Special Event Permit and Encroachment Permit and is awaiting a response on the ability to use the MCCF to complete a Facility Use Agreement and provide the proper Certificate of Insurance with Endorsement.
Since its closure in late 2020, the MCCF has primarily functioned as the designated Emergency Operations Center for response and recovery in the event of a disaster declaration within the City. However, only the administrative offices and area is reserved for this use. The rest of the MCCF space remains unused as it is the dormitories, classrooms, storage, kitchen, medical offices and other unused space.
ANALYSIS
DISCUSSION TO UTILIZE THE FORMER MODIFIED COMMUNITY CORRECTIONAL FACILITY
FOR RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES OPEN TO THE COMMUNITY
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To utilize the former MCCF for this type of recreational activity that will be open to the public, a few issues need to be taken into consideration. For one, the MCCF is designed as a correctional housing facility and not designed for large public events, particularly interactive ones like a haunted house. For example, the City should ensure measures are taken concerning fire, safety, and ADA standards. The City's Risk Management Administration (RMA) recommends a comprehensive emergency plan that addresses fire hazards and medical emergencies is in place as well as access to local emergency response services, i.e. fire department and ambulatory services.
Additionally, the facility's prolonged vacancy necessitates an assessment of the facility to ensure no safety hazards exist and if any are found, that those be mitigated. For example, lose wiring, trip hazards, and any exposed metal from when equipment was removed from the facility.
Additionally, per the RMA's requirements, the proper transfer of risk with adequate insurance limits is provided by the event sponsor, in the event injuries or accidents occur. To address the potential risks, the RMA recommends the following measures:
1. Conducting a thorough safety inspection in collaboration with Fire Safety Officials, Building, Facilities, and Risk Management Staff to certify that the designated areas for use meet all safety requirements before the event.
2. Transfer liability through a Facility Use Agreement and obtain the certificate of insurance and endorsement from the sponsor with the appropriate insurance limits determined by the Risk Management Authority (RMA); 2 million per occurrence/4 million aggregate.
The proposed event could be an opportunity for the City to "test pilot" using the former MCCF as a recreational facility in advance of the feasibility study that will be commissioned in the near future.
FISCAL IMPACT
This will be determined based on further cost analysis of building modifications and event staffing.
CEQA ANALYSIS
This item does not require discretionary action as it is for informational purposes only.
Therefore, it does not trigger CEQA review.
APPROVED BY THE CITY ATTORNEY
No
ALTERNATIVES
Any alternative direction may be provided by the City Council.
NEXT STEPS
DISCUSSION TO UTILIZE THE FORMER MODIFIED COMMUNITY CORRECTIONAL FACILITY
FOR RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES OPEN TO THE COMMUNITY
- 3 -
City Staff will continue to work diligently to implement risk mitigation measures and ensure that the Haunted House event is successful and safe for all participants.
ATTACHMENTS
None