TAFT CITY COUNCIL/SUCCESSOR AGENCY
JOINT REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
TUESDAY, AUGUST 04, 2026
CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBER
209 E. KERN ST., TAFT, CA 93268
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ City of Taft Council Meetings are being held in-person with full capacity seating or may be joined remotely through zoom using personal meeting ID 619 824 7558 Passcode 613564 or the following link:
https://us06web.zoom.us/my/cityoftaft?pwd=9kP6CWQgeOrw4BAZeV6ZkGEbW9yTQw.1&omn=82223707823 Meetings are also livestreamed at https://www.youtube.com/user/CityofTaft.
Public comment can be made in person or remotely through zoom and can be received per the following:
• Written comments may be dropped off in the drop box in front of City Hall. • Comments may be emailed to the City Clerk at [email protected]. • Made by phone to the City Clerk’s office at (661) 763-1222. • Public comments will be accepted up until 5:00 PM the day of the meeting. • Any comments received will be read into the record.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ REGULAR MEETING 6:00 P.M.
Pledge of Allegiance
Invocation
Roll Call: Mayor Noerr
Mayor Pro Tem Bryant
Councilmember Krier
Councilmember Waldrop
Councilmember Chavira
1. CITIZEN REQUESTS/PUBLIC COMMENTS
COMMENTS ARE TO BE RECEIVED AS STATED IN ABOVE POLICY
THIS IS THE TIME AND PLACE FOR THE GENERAL PUBLIC TO ADDRESS THE CITY COUNCIL ON MATTERS WITHIN ITS JURISDICTION. STATE LAW PROHIBITS THE COUNCIL FROM ADDRESSING ANY ISSUE NOT PREVIOUSLY INCLUDED ON THE AGENDA. COUNCIL MAY RECEIVE COMMENT AND SET THE MATTER FOR A SUBSEQUENT MEETING. PLEASE LIMIT COMMENTS TO FIVE MINUTES.
2. COUNCIL STATEMENTS (NON-ACTION)
3. DEPARTMENT REPORTS
4. CITY MANAGER STATEMENTS
5. CITY ATTORNEY STATEMENTS
6. FUTURE AGENDA REQUESTS
***************************************************************************************************** CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS 7-12
All items listed on the Consent Calendar shall be considered routine and will be enacted by one roll call vote. There will be no separate discussion of these items unless a member of the City Council requests City of Taft Council/Successor Agency Meeting
Agenda
August 04, 2026
specific items to be removed from the Consent Calendar for separate action. Any item removed from the Consent Calendar will be considered after the regular business items. Are there any items on the consent calendar that any member of the public would like to comment on?
7. MINUTES
July 21, 2026, Regular
Recommendation – Approve as submitted.
8. PAYMENT OF BILLS
Warrant # 072226 Check No. 101533 $ 325,000.00
Warrant # 072426 Check No. 202476 $ 871.35
Recommendation – Approve payment of the bills.
9. STREET CLOSURES AND SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT FOR THE SUNSET NIGHT MARKET SPECIAL EVENTS
Recommendation –
Motion to adopt a resolution entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TAFT
AUTHORIZING THE SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT AND STREET CLOSURES FOR THE SUNSET NIGHT MARKET SPECIAL EVENTS ON SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24TH, NOVEMBER 21ST, & DECEMBER 12TH, 2026 and find that the activity is not a project per the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) as set forth in Section 15060(c)(3) and Section 15378 of the CEQA Guidelines.
10. TRANSPORTATION DEVELOPMENT ACT FUNDS ANNUAL AUDIT – FY 2022-2023 Recommendation –
Motion to receive and file the City of Taft Transportation Development Act Funds Annual Audit for the fiscal year 2022-2023.
11. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TAFT AUTHORIZING ADDITIONAL CARDS
FOR THE AMERICAN EXPRESS ACCOUNT
Recommendation –
Motion to adopt resolution entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TAFT AUTHORIZING ADDITIONAL CARDS FOR THE AMERICAN EXPRESS ACCOUNT.
12. PROFESSIONAL SERVICE AGREEMENT- HF&H ON- CALL SB 1383 TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE Recommendation –
Motion to approve a Professional Services Agreement with HF&H Consultants, LLC (HF&H) for on-call solid waste and recycling consulting services for the period of July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2029, in an amount not to exceed $25,000 per year, and authorize the City Manager to execute the agreement. ******************************************************************************************************
13. PRELIMINARY APPROVAL FOR SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT FOR A PROPOSED DOWNTOWN
STREET CIRCUIT SUPER MOTO RACING EVENT
City of Taft Council/Successor Agency Meeting
Agenda
August 04, 2026
Recommendation –
Motion to adopt a resolution entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TAFT
GRANTING PRELIMINARY APPROVAL OF A SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT FOR A PROPOSED
DOWNTOWN STREET CIRCUIT SUPER MOTO RACING EVENT AND AUTHORIZING CONTINUED PLANNING, NEGOTIATION, AND PREPARATION OF A FINAL SPECIAL EVENT AGREEMENT and find that the activity is not a project per the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) as set forth in Section 15060(c)(3) and Section 15378 of the CEQA Guidelines. ******************************************************************************************************
CLOSED SESSION
A. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATOR, CRAIG JONES, CITY MANAGER Government Code 54957.6 – All units
B. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – EXISTING LITIGATION
Government Code Section 54956.9 (a) – Taft Union High School vs. City of Taft Kern County Superior Court Case No. S-1500-CV-283804
ADJOURNMENT
AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT: In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance, a disability-related modification or accommodation, agenda materials in an alternative format, or auxiliary aids to participate in this meeting, please contact the Office of the City Clerk at (661) 763-1222 or [email protected] as soon as possible. Providing at least 72 hours’ notice will help ensure that reasonable arrangements can be made.
AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING
I, Faith Melton, declare as follows:
That I am the City Clerk for the City of Taft; that an agenda was posted on a public information bulletin board located near the door of the Civic Center Council Chamber on July 30, 2026, at ________ a.m./p.m., pursuant to 1987 Brown Act Requirements.
I declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct.
Executed July 30, 2026, at Taft, California.
Signature ___________ _________
TAFT CITY COUNCIL/SUCCESSOR AGENCY
MINUTES
JULY 21, 2026
The July 21, 2026 regular joint meeting of the Taft City Council/Taft Successor Agency, held in the Council Chamber at Taft City Hall, 209 East Kern Street, Taft, CA 93268, was opened by Mayor Dave Noerr at 6:00 PM.
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Council Member Waldrop and invocation was given by Greg Mudge.
PRESENT: Mayor Dave Noerr and Mayor Pro Tem Josh Bryant Council Members Orchel Krier and Ron Waldrop
City Manager Craig Jones and City Attorney Jason Epperson City Clerk Faith Melton
ABSENT: Council Member Carlos Chavira
1. PUBLIC HEARING - ADOPT RESOLUTIONS AUTHORIZING KERN COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR TO
COLLECT REFUSE AND STREET SWEEPING CHARGES AND STANDBY CHARGES FOR VACANT
COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS
The public hearing was opened at 6:05 PM to receive comment, having none the hearing was closed.
Motion: Moved by Bryant, seconded by Krier to adopt A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF TAFT PROVIDING FOR COLLECTION OF REFUSE AND STREET
SWEEPING CHARGES BY THE COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR PURSUANT TO SECTION 5473 ET. SEQ., OF THE HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE (Resolution No. 4364-26) and A
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TAFT PROVIDING FOR
COLLECTION OF STANDBY REFUSE AND STREET SWEEPING CHARGES BY THE COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR PURSUANT TO SECTION 5473 ET. SEQ., OF THE HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE. (Resolution No. 4365-26)
AYES: Krier, Bryant, Waldrop, Noerr
PASSED: 4-0
2. PUBLIC HEARING - ADOPT RESOLUTIONS AUTHORIZING KERN COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR TO
COLLECT SEWER CHARGES AND STANDBY SEWER CHARGES FOR VACANT COMMERCIAL
BUILDINGS
The public hearing was opened at 6:07 PM to receive comment, having none the hearing was closed.
Motion: Moved by Krier seconded by Bryant to adopt A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF TAFT PROVIDING FOR COLLECTION OF SEWER CHARGES BY THE COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR PURSUANT TO SECTION 5473 ET. SEQ., OF THE HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE (Resolution No. 4366-26) and A RESOLUTION OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TAFT PROVIDING FOR COLLECTION OF STANDBY SEWER CHARGES BY THE COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR PURSUANT TO SECTION 5473 ET. SEQ., OF THE HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE. (Resolution No. 4367-26) AYES: Krier, Bryant, Waldrop, Noerr
PASSED: 4-0
City of Taft Council/Successor Agency Meeting
Minutes
July 21, 2026
3. PUBLIC HEARING – LANDSCAPE AND LIGHTING MAINTENANCE DISTRICT NO. 1 The public hearing was opened at 6:11 PM to receive comment, having none the hearing was closed.
Motion: Moved by Bryant, seconded by Krier to adopt A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF TAFT SETTING THE ASSESSMENT FOR LANDSCAPE AND LIGHTING MAINTENANCE DISTRICT NO. 1. (Resolution No. 4368-26) AYES: Krier, Bryant, Waldrop, Noerr
PASSED: 4-0
4. CITIZEN REQUESTS/PUBLIC COMMENTS
Executive Director of the Chamber of Commerce, Stephanie Layton went over the 4th of July events and said everything went great, she hopes to continue the events next year along with fireworks or a drone show. She reported that Chamber membership has risen from 14 new members to 42 members and she gave information on upcoming events.
5. COUNCIL STATEMENTS (NON-ACTION)
Council Member Krier hoped everyone had a great 4th of July, reminded the community that City Council elections are coming up and don’t forget to vote.
Council Member Waldrop wishes to have another 250 years in America and informed everyone of his political status.
Mayor Pro Tem Bryant said the 4th of July celebration went great and reminded everyone to teach kids about history.
Mayor Noerr said he loves this country, loves who we are and supports the people who fight for this country. He also spoke about how the California Governor passed the California budget.
6. DEPARTMENT REPORTS
There was none.
7. CITY MANAGER STATEMENTS
There was none.
8. CITY ATTORNEY STATEMENTS
There was none.
9. FUTURE AGENDA REQUESTS
City of Taft Council/Successor Agency Meeting
Minutes
July 21, 2026
There was none.
***************************************************************************************************** CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS 10-16
Motion: Moved by Bryant seconded by Krier to approve consent calendar items 10-16.
AYES: Krier, Bryant, Waldrop, Noerr
PASSED: 4-0
10. MINUTES
June 16, 2026, Regular
Recommendation – Approve as submitted.
11. PAYMENT OF BILLS
Warrant # 061226 Check No. 202170-202195 $ 171,152.61
Warrant # 061926 Check No. 202196-202281 $ 1,239,412.08 Warrant # 062626 Check No. 202282-202327 $ 582,932.72
Warrant # 063026 Check No. 202328 $ 100,000.00
Warrant # 070326 Check No. 202329-202334 $ 99,344.70
Warrant # 070326A Check No. 2023235-202375 $ 296,833.26 Warrant # 071026A Check No. 202376-202377 $ 4,457.69
Warrant # 071726A Check No. 202378-202438 $ 324,026.64
Warrant # 071726 Check No. 202439-202475 $ 33,341.40
Recommendation – Approve payment of the bills.
12. ACCEPT THE LOWEST RESPONSIVE AND RESPONSIBLE BID AND AWARD THE 4TH ST.
REHABILITATION - KERN ST. TO ASH ST. - STPL – 5193 (049) PROJECT TO J.L. PLANK, INC. dba
CEN-CAL CONSTRUCTION
Recommendation –
Motion to accept the lowest responsible bid, award the project and to execute a construction agreement with J.L. Plank, Inc. dba Cen-Cal Construction in the amount of $604,999.00 for the 4th St. Rehabilitation - from Kern St. to Ash St - STPL – 5193 (049) project and authorize the City Mayor to execute the construction agreement.
13. ACCEPT THE LOWEST RESPONSIVE AND RESPONSIBLE BID AND AWARD THE 10TH ST. & SAN EMIDIO ST. - INTERSECTION SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS - ATPL 5193-046 PROJECT TO J.L. PLANK, INC. dba CEN-CAL CONSTRUCTION
Recommendation –
Motion to accept the lowest responsible bid, award the project and to execute a construction agreement with J.L. Plank, Inc. dba Cen-Cal Construction in the amount of $261,261.00 for the 10th St. & San Emidio St. - Intersection Safety Improvements – ATPL 5193-046 project and authorize the City Mayor to execute the construction agreement.
14. AUTHORIZING FEDERAL FUNDING FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FOR FTA SECTION 5311 APPLICATION FOR FISCAL YEAR 2025-2026
City of Taft Council/Successor Agency Meeting
Minutes
July 21, 2026
Recommendation –
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TAFT AUTHORIZING THE FEDERAL FUNDING UNDER FTA SECTION 5311 (49 U.S.C. SECTION 5311) WITH CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION. (Resolution No. 4369-26)
15. FUNDING TO THE TAFT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE FOR THE QUARTER OF JANUARY 2026 TO MARCH 2026
Recommendation –
Motion to approve the 25% allocation of the Transient Occupancy Tax to the Taft Chamber of Commerce for the quarter of January 2026 through March 2026.
16. STREET CLOSURES AND SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT FOR SELF BREWED COFFEE HOUSE VENDOR MARKET
Recommendation –
Motion to adopt a resolution entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TAFT
AUTHORIZING THE SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT AND STREET CLOSURES FOR THE SELF BREWED COFFEE HOUSE VENDOR MARKET ON AUGUST 1, 2026 (Resolution No. 4370-26) and find that the activity is not a project per the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) as set forth in Section 15060(c)(3) and Section 15378 of the CEQA Guidelines.
******************************************************************************************************
17. APPROVE TRAVEL EXPENSE FOR COUNCIL MEMBERS TO ATTEND THE LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA
CITIES ANNUAL CONFERENCE AND SELECT A VOTING DELEGATE
Motion: Moved by Bryant, seconded by Krier, to approve and appropriate funds from General Funds for registration, meals, transportation and other incidental expenses for the chosen voting delegate to attend the 2026 League of California Cities Annual Conference and League of California Cities Annual Business Meeting in Anaheim.
AYES: Krier, Bryant, Waldrop, Noerr
PASSED: 4-0
Motion: Moved by Bryant, seconded by Waldrop, to select Council Member Waldrop as the Voting Delegate and Council Member Krier as the Alternate Voting Delegate for the 2026 League of California Cities Annual Business Meeting in Anaheim.
AYES: Krier, Bryant, Waldrop, Noerr
PASSED: 4-0
****************************************************************************************************** At 6:31 PM the regular meeting was recessed to closed session.
CLOSED SESSION
A. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATOR, CRAIG JONES, CITY MANAGER Government Code 54957.6 – All units
B. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – EXISTING LITIGATION
City of Taft Council/Successor Agency Meeting
Minutes
July 21, 2026
Government Code Section 54956.9 (a) – Taft Union High School vs. City of Taft Kern County Superior Court Case No. S-1500-CV-283804
C. ANNUAL PERFORMANCE EVALUATION
Government Code Section 54957 – City Attorney
D. ANNUAL PERFORMANCE EVALUATION
Government Code Section 54957 – City Manager
The City Council discussed in closed session the two items agendized for closed session discussion and directions were given to staff and negotiators. The City Council took no other reportable action.
ADJOURNMENT - With no further business to conduct, the meeting was adjourned at 8:01 PM. __________ ____________
Faith Melton Dave Noerr
City Clerk Mayor
REVIEWED BY:
CITY CLERK FINANCE DIRECTOR CITY MANAGER
City of Taft Agenda Report
DATE: AUGUST 4, 2026
TO: HONORABLE MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEMBERS
AGENDA ITEM:
STREET CLOSURES AND SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT FOR THE SUNSET NIGHT MARKET SPECIAL EVENTS
SUMMARY STATEMENT:
City staff has received a special event permit request from the Sunset Night Market including the street closure of S. 6th Street between Main Street & Supply Row for Vendor Event on Saturday, October 24th, November 21st, & December 12th, 2026 from 4:00 PM until 9:00 PM.
The following street has been designated for closure on Saturday, October 24th, November 21st, & December 12th, 2026
• S. 6th Street between Main Street & Supply Row
California Vehicle Code section 21101 authorizes local agencies by resolution to close streets for special events.
Special event permit conditions of approval include:
• Liability insurance naming City of Taft Additional Insured/certificate holder in the amount of $2 million.
• Special Event Permit fee of $1,120 to be paid seven days prior to the first event • Adequate portable restroom, handwash station and trash receptacles • The event area to be cleaned up and vacated with no event activities and no amplified sound or music after 9:00PM
• City business license for all vendors including Kern County Public Health permits for food vendors
RECOMMENDATION:
Motion to adopt a resolution entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TAFT
AUTHORIZING THE SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT AND STREET CLOSURES FOR THE SUNSET NIGHT MARKET SPECIAL EVENTS ON SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24TH, NOVEMBER 21ST, & DECEMBER 12TH, 2026 and find that the activity is not a project per the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) as set forth in Section 15060(c)(3) and Section 15378 of the CEQA Guidelines.
IMPACT ON BUDGET (Y/N): No
ATTACHMENT (Y/N): Yes (letter, special event application, and resolution) PREPARED BY: Public Works Department
RESOLUTION NO. ____
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TAFT
AUTHORIZING THE SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT AND STREET CLOSURES
FOR THE SUNSET NIGHT MARKET SPECIAL EVENTS ON SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24TH, NOVEMBER 21ST, & DECEMBER 12TH, 2026
WHEREAS, the Sunset Night Market has requested a street closure for a special event on October 24th, November 21st, & December 12th, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM, WHEREAS, Section 21101 (e) of the California Vehicle Code requires a resolution by Council to temporarily close streets for special events.
WHEREAS, the special event will be approved by the Planning Department on August 5, 2026; and
WHEREAS, the event was required to provide sufficient trash receptacles and portable chemical toilets, handwashing stations, and clean up all trash and debris at the conclusion of the event.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Mayor and City Council of the City of Taft, California, approve the following street closure from 4:00 PM until 9:00 PM. on October 24th, November 21st, & December 12th, 2026.
S. 6th Street between Main Street & Supply Row
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED this day of August 4, 2026 Dave Noerr, Mayor
ATTEST:
Faith Melton
City Clerk
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF KERN ) SS
CITY OF TAFT )
I, Faith Melton, City Clerk of the City of Taft, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution was duly and regularly adopted by the City Council of the City of Taft at a regular meeting thereof held on the day of August 4, 2026, by the following vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
ABSTAIN: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
Faith Melton
City Clerk
ADMINISTRATION 661/763-1222 * PUBLIC WORKS/PLANNING 661/763-3144*FINANCE 661/763-1350 209 E. KERN STREET*TAFT, CALIFORNIA 93268
ENCROACHMENT PERMIT
Permit No.:
Date:
APPLICANT:
Name:
Address:
Telephone: E-Mail:
DESCRIPTION OF WORK: (attach drawing if necessary)
Please provide date:
ALL WORK TO COMPLY WITH CITY CODE, STANDARDS, AND POLICIES. GENERAL LIABILITY INSURANCE IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,000,000 REQUIRED WITH ENDORSEMENTNAMINGTHE
CITYOFTAFTITSOFFICERS,AGENTS,VOLUNTEERSAND EMPLOYEES AS ADDITIONAL INSURED CITY OF TAFT FEE SCHEDULE CATEGORY:
TOTAL FEES $
This permit is valid for days from project start date.
Approved:
(Craig Jones Public Works Manager)
Applicant’s
Signature
Kailee Gaylord Rogers (Soda buzz co-Taft Sunset Market) 411 Mckinley Street Taft Ca 93268 661-770-6456 [email protected] Event Planning and Management. Sunset Market is a community-based event that plans and hosts family-friendly vendor markets, outdoor entertainment, and seasonal events while supporting local businesses and giving back to the community through charitable inititiaves. 10/24/2026, 11/21/2026, 12/12/2026 07/22/2026 ADMINISTRATION 661/763-1222 * PUBLIC WORKS/PLANNING 661/763-3144*FINANCE 661/763-1350 209 E. KERN STREET*TAFT, CALIFORNIA 93268
CITY OF TAFT
HOLD HARMLESS AGREEMENT
(Organization Name) agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the City of Taft, its officers, agents, volunteers and employees or any other person against loss or expense including attorney’s fees, by reason of the liability imposed by law upon the City, except in cases of the City’s sole negligence, for damage because of bodily injury, including death at any time resulting therefrom, sustained by any person or persons, or on account of damage to property arising out of or in consequence of the Agreement, whether such injuries to persons or damage to property are due or claim to be due to any passive negligence of the City, its employees or agents or any other person. It is further understood and agreed that the Organization shall (at the option of the City) defend the City of Taft with appropriate counsel and shall further bear all costs and expenses, including the expense of counsel, including in the defense of any suit arising hereunder.
Organization Name Authorized Signature
Mailing Address Date
City, State, Zip
Taft Sunset Market presented by Soda Buzz Co Taft Sunset Market presented by Soda Buzz Co 411 Mckinley Street Taft, CA, 93268 07/22/2026
City of Taft Agenda Report
DATE: AUGUST 4, 2026
TO: HONORABLE MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEMBERS
AGENDA MATTER:
TRANSPORTATION DEVELOPMENT ACT FUNDS ANNUAL AUDIT – FY 2022-2023 SUMMARY STATEMENT:
Attached for Council information and review is the Annual Audit for the Taft Transportation Development Act Funds (TDA).
This audit is conducted by and submitted to Kern Council of Governments.
RECOMMENDED ACTION
Motion to receive and file the City of Taft Transportation Development Act Funds Annual Audit for the fiscal year 2022-2023.
IMPACT ON BUDGET (Y/N): No
ATTACHMENT (Y/N): Yes – Audit report
PREPARED BY: Finance Department
REVIEWED BY:
CITY CLERK FINANCE DIRECTOR CITY MANAGER
City of Taft Agenda Report
DATE: AUGUST 4, 2026
TO: HONORABLE MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEMBERS
AGENDA MATTER:
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TAFT AUTHORIZING
ADDITIONAL CARDS FOR THE AMERICAN EXPRESS ACCOUNT
SUMMARY STATEMENT:
Staff are requesting to issue two (2) additional cards to be used for purchasing, travel and training according to the City credit card policy and the purchasing policy.
The two (2) additional cards will be issued to the Assistant Finance Director and the Assistant to the City Manager.
Originally when the account was established there were three (3) cards issued, but with change in staffing and change in operations there is only one (1) card remaining. Adding these two (2) additional cards will bring the account back to what was originally approved.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Motion to adopt resolution entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TAFT AUTHORIZING ADDITIONAL CARDS FOR THE AMERICAN EXPRESS ACCOUNT.
IMPACT ON BUDGET (Y/N): No
ATTACHMENT (Y/N): Yes – Audit report
PREPARED BY: Finance Department
REVIEWED BY:
CITY CLERK FINANCE DIRECTOR CITY MANAGER
RESOLUTION NO. ________
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TAFT AUTHORIZING
ADDITIONAL CARDS FOR THE AMERICAN EXPRESS ACCOUNT
WHEREAS, the City desires to obtain two (2) additional cardsfrom AMERICAN EXPRESS (hereinafter called "AMEX") for use by certain City employees; and
WHEREAS, the City intends to authorize said employees to use such card for and in connection with City business only; and
WHEREAS, AMEX will not issue said bank cards unless the City agrees to assume full responsibility for the use of such card, and to pay AMEX for all indebtedness incurred through the use of such card, whether such use or indebtedness was authorized by the City.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Finance Director or the Assistant Finance Director of the City is hereby authorized, directed and empowered, in the name of this City to issue the two (2) additional AMEX cards, and to submit all documents required in order to accomplish the foregoing.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the AMEX is authorized to act upon this resolution until written notice of its revocation is delivered to AMEX and that authority hereby granted shall apply with equal force and effect to the successors in office of the officers named herein.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED on this 4th day of August 2026. ________________________________
Dave Noerr, Mayor
ATTEST:
______________________________
Faith Melton
City Clerk
STATE OF CALIFORNIA }
COUNTY OF KERN } SS
CITY OF TAFT }
I, Faith Melton, City Clerk of the City of Taft, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution was duly and regularly adopted by the City Council of the City of Taft at a regular meeting thereof held on the 4th day of August 2026, by the following vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS:
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS:
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS:
ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBERS:
______________________________
Faith Melton
City Clerk
REVIEWED BY:
CITY CLERK FINANCE DIRECTOR CITY MANAGER
City of Taft Agenda Report
DATE: AUGUST 4, 2026
TO: HONORABLE MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEMBERS
AGENDA MATTER:
PROFESSIONAL SERVICE AGREEMENT- HF&H ON- CALL SB 1383 TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE SUMMARY STATEMENT:
HF&H has provided the City of Taft with specialized consulting services related to franchise hauler oversight and SB 1383 compliance. Through its recent work with the City and Westside Waste, HF&H has developed familiarity with the City's franchise operations and reporting requirements.
HF&H will provide on-call consulting services, including:
• Administration of the City's franchise hauler agreement, including review of monthly and quarterly reports and coordination with Westside Waste. • Assistance with SB 1383 implementation recordkeeping, annual reporting, and CalRecycle grant administration. • General solid waste and recycling consulting services, including preparation of staff reports, presentations, and other related support as requested.
The agreement will be performed on a time-and-materials basis for a three-year term, with total compensation not to exceed $25,000 per fiscal year. Any additional work beyond the approved scope or budget will require prior City Manager authorization.
RECOMMENDED ACTION
Motion to approve a Professional Services Agreement with HF&H Consultants, LLC (HF&H) for on-call solid waste and recycling consulting services for the period of July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2029, in an amount not to exceed $25,000 per year, and authorize the City Manager to execute the agreement.
IMPACT ON BUDGET (Y/N): Yes, Solid Waste Budget $25,000 ATTACHMENT (Y/N): Agreement
PREPARED BY: Public Works
HF&H Consultants
590 Ygnacio Valley Rd. Suite 105
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Phone: (925) 977-6950
Web: hfh-consultants.com
June 18, 2026
Craig Jones
City Manager
City of Taft
209 E. Kern St.
Taft, CA 93268
Sent via email: [email protected]
Professional Service Agreement Proposal
Dear Craig Jones,
HF&H Consultants, LLC (HF&H) is pleased to present this proposal to assist the City of Taft (City) with on-call consulting services. This letter describes the proposed scope of work, limitations, and budget. If desired, HF&H will meet with the City to discuss the scope or make amendments as necessary.
Scope of Work
Consistent with efforts in prior years, HF&H will assist the City in franchise hauler agreement administration, recordkeeping and reporting, and other on-call consulting services, upon City request. The scope of work described below conveys our understanding of, and approach to, the project. Through our work supporting the City with their recent hauler performance review, HF&H has developed a strong working relationship with the City’s franchise hauler, Westside Waste (WSW). This relationship will prove advantageous to the City as they continue to improve recordkeeping and reporting protocols in anticipation of a Jurisdiction and Agency Compliance Evaluation.
TASK 1: FRANCHISE HAULER AGREEMENT ADMINISTRATION
Task 1a: Franchise Hauler Report Review
HF&H will liaise with WSW to ensure timely, complete, and accurate reporting. During our review of monthly and quarterly reports, it is likely that minor clarifications and/or edits will be necessary, as is typical industry-wide. HF&H will communicate with City and WSW staff as needed to ensure all information is submitted in accordance with the franchise agreement requirements and State law.
Task 1b: Meetings with WSW and/or City
HF&H may request virtual meetings with City and/or WSW staff to facilitate clarifications and updates as necessary. Our organized and efficient approach to meeting facilitation will support the City in navigating conversations with WSW to ensure each meeting is productive and leaves the City and WSW with a clear understanding of next steps.
Task 1c: Other Franchise Hauler Administration Support
At the City’s request, HF&H will provide additional franchise hauler administration support including but not limited to:
Craig Jones
June 18, 2026
• Updating and/or reviewing education and outreach materials. • Updating reporting templates.
• Shadowing in-person technical assistance site visits with WSW. • Other franchise hauler administration support as mutually agreed upon.
TASK 2: RECORDKEEPING AND REPORTING
Cities are required to maintain an Implementation Record (IR) documenting SB 1383 implementation and program descriptions. Much of this information comes from WSW but some information is provided by the City or other partners (such as Kern County). As records are available, HF&H will ensure the SB 1383 IR is updated to the extent possible and communicate any gaps to the City. Additionally, HF&H will support the City with the Electronic Annual Report and the administration of CalRecycle grants, upon City request.
TASK 3: ON-CALL SOLID WASTE AND RECYCLING CONSULTING
At the City’s request, HF&H will provide additional on-call consulting services including but not limited to:
• Drafting staff reports and presentations.
• Other tasks as mutually agreed upon.
Schedule
This engagement is scheduled to begin on July 1, 2026, with a term of three years. The termination date shall be June 30, 2029, unless terminated earlier or extended in accordance with the agreement between the two parties.
Budget
We will perform the scope of work outlined above on a time-and-materials basis with the City, subject to a not-to-exceed amount of $25,000 for the term of the contract. HF&H will bill the City monthly for the actual hours worked in the previous monthly period, with payment due within 30 days of the invoice date. Any services requested by the City that are outside the scope described above or that exceed the not‑to‑exceed amount will be authorized in advance by the City and billed in accordance with the hourly rates set forth in Attachment A.
Sincerely,
HF&H Consultants, LLC
Rob Hilton
President
Attachment A - Standard Hourly Rates And Billing Arrangements Standard Hourly Rates And
Billing Arrangements
(Effective January 1, 2026)
PROFESSIONAL FEES
Hourly rates for professional and administrative personnel are as follows:
Position Rate
Executive $340 - $380
Senior Project Manager $315 - $340
Project Manager $280 - $300
Senior Associate $235 - $280
Associate Analyst $205 - $230
Assistant Analyst $190 - $200
Administrative Staff $145 - $175
On January 1 annually, billing rates will increase based on the 12-month average change in the Consumer Price Index, All Urban Consumers, all items, not seasonally adjusted, San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward Metropolitan Area, compiled and published by the U.S.
Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, rounded up to the nearest five dollars ($5).
DIRECT EXPENSES
Standard charges for common direct expenses are as follows:
Personal Automobile Travel................................................ Prevailing IRS mileage rate Airfare, Rental Car, Public Transit ....................................................................Actual Cost Accommodation and Meals .................................................................................Actual Cost
BILLING POLICIES
Our policy is to bill for our services based on the standard hourly rates of the staff member assigned, multiplied by the time required to perform the client-related tasks, plus the direct expenses as described above. In implementing this policy, we adhere to the following practices:
• It is our standard practice to e-mail invoices to our clients, although hard copies of invoices can be sent to clients upon request.
• We round to the nearest one-quarter hour (e.g., if two hours and 55 minutes are spent on a task, it is recorded as three hours, if two hours and 5 minutes are spent on a task, it is recorded as two hours). A minimum charge of one-quarter hour is charged for any client work performed in a day.
• We do not markup out-of-pocket expenses, however, we may charge administrative or professional time related to the provision of the goods and services associated with these charges.
• If subcontractors are used, HF&H reserves the right to charge a 10% markup. hfh-consultants.com ● (925) 977-6550
Standard Hourly Rates And
Billing Arrangements
(Effective January 1, 2026)
• Mileage fees are based on the round-trip distance from the point of origin. • If a client's change to a previously scheduled meeting results in penalties being assessed by a third party (e.g., airline cancellation fee), then the client will bear the cost of these penalties.
INSURANCE
We maintain the following policies of insurance with carriers doing business in California:
• Comprehensive General Liability Insurance ($2,000,000 Occurrence/$4,000,000 Aggregate)
• Workers’ Compensation ($1,000,000)
• Professional Liability Insurance ($2,000,000 Occurrence/$2,000,000 Aggregate) • Hired and Non-Owned Auto Liability1 ($2,000,000)
• Umbrella Liability ($3,000,000 Occurrence/$3,000,000 Aggregate) • Cyber Liability ($1,000,000 Each Claim)
All costs incurred in complying with additional coverages or limits (excluding additional insured and waiver of subrogation endorsements) become the responsibility of the client and are not included in the fees for services or direct charges but instead are billed in addition to the contract at cost, plus any professional or administrative fees.
INVOICES AND PAYMENT FOR SERVICES
Our time reporting and billing system has certain standard formats that are designed to provide our clients with a detailed invoice of the time and charges associated with their engagements and we typically discuss these with our clients at our kick-off meeting. We are also pleased to provide our clients with a custom invoice format, but we will have to bill the client for time spent conforming our invoices to their unique requirements.
Billings for professional services and charges are submitted every month, so that our clients can more closely monitor our services.
City of Taft: HF&H:
City Manager Craig Jones
1 HF&H Consultants does not own any company automobiles.
City of Taft Agenda Report
DATE: AUGUST 4, 2026
TO: HONORABLE MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEMBERS
AGENDA MATTER:
PRELIMINARY APPROVAL FOR SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT FOR A PROPOSED DOWNTOWN
STREET CIRCUIT SUPER MOTO RACING EVENT
SUMMARY STATEMENT:
City staff has received a proposal from BP Promotions to host a Super Moto race utilizing a temporary closed street course within the downtown district. The proposed event would be an internationally recognized motorsports competition expected to attract significant regional and international visitors while showcasing the City's downtown businesses and attractions.
The purpose of this agenda item is to obtain City Council's preliminary approval to continue negotiations and detailed planning. Preliminary approval does not authorize the event itself.
Final approval will be returned to the City Council after completion of operational planning, public safety review, street closures, business owner acknowledgments, and all insurance and indemnification agreements have been agreed to.
The preliminary schedule and race route will be:
Friday, October 17, 2026 8:00am-6:00pm – Practice
Saturday, October 18, 2026 9:00am-5:00pm – Practice, Qualifying, Racing Center Street between 6th and 3rd Streets
3rd Steet between Center and Main Streets
Main Street between 3rd and 5th Streets
The requested street closures will be: (map attached)
• 500 Block of North Street from Oildorado Event Center fenced area to Southwest corner of 5th Street (Staging area)
• 5th Street between south side of Alley between North and Center Street(just south of the Bank Sports Lounge) to Main Street and Center Street (Pit/Racee Start) – would like to keep the area next to the Bank available for closure request from their business if desired.
• Center Street from 3rd Street to 6th Street
• Main Street from 3rd Street to 5th Street
• 3rd Street from Center Street to Main Street
• 4th Street from Center Street to Main Street
RECOMMENDED ACTION
Motion to adopt a resolution entitled A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF TAFT GRANTING PRELIMINARY APPROVAL OF A SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT FOR A
PROPOSED DOWNTOWN STREET CIRCUIT SUPER MOTO RACING EVENT AND
AUTHORIZING CONTINUED PLANNING, NEGOTIATION, AND PREPARATION OF A FINAL SPECIAL EVENT AGREEMENT and find that the activity is not a project per the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) as set forth in Section 15060(c)(3) and Section 15378 of the CEQA Guidelines.
IMPACT ON BUDGET (Y/N): No
ATTACHMENT (Y/N): Yes- Letter, map, and additional Information PREPARED BY: Planning Department
REVIEWED BY:
CITY CLERK FINANCE DIRECTOR CITY MANAGER
RESOLUTION NO.
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TAFT
GRANTING PRELIMINARY APPROVAL OF A SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT
FOR A PROPOSED DOWNTOWN STREET CIRCUIT SUPER MOTO
RACING EVENT AND AUTHORIZING CONTINUED PLANNING,
NEGOTIATION, AND PREPARATION OF A FINAL SPECIAL EVENT
AGREEMENT
WHEREAS, the City of Taft has received a proposal from BP Promotions to hold a super moto racing event utilizing a temporary street circuit within the downtown area of the City of Taft; and
WHEREAS, the proposed event to be advertised as TaftGP Downtown Motorcycle Bash has the potential to provide substantial economic benefits to the City through increased tourism, visitor spending, hotel occupancy, restaurant and retail activity, and international media exposure; and
WHEREAS, the City Council recognizes the potential for the proposed event to enhance the City's economic development objectives while promoting Taft as a regional destination for entertainment and special events; and
WHEREAS, the City Council also recognizes that a downtown street circuit requires comprehensive planning to address public safety, traffic circulation, emergency response, business access, parking, neighborhood impacts, and municipal service requirements; and WHEREAS, City staff has conducted a preliminary review of the proposed downtown route and determined that the proposal warrants further technical evaluation and negotiations; and WHEREAS, preliminary approval is intended solely to authorize the promoter to advertise and City staff to continue planning, negotiations, environmental review, public outreach, and preparation of agreements necessary for future City Council consideration and does not constitute final authorization to conduct the event; and
WHEREAS, any final approval of the proposed Super Moto TaftGP event shall be subject to review and approval by the City Council following completion of all required conditions of approval, agreements, permits, and applicable insurance and indemnification agreements.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 4th day of August 2026
Dave Noerr, Mayor
ATTEST:
Faith Melton, City Clerk
City Council/Successor Agency
Resolution No.
STATE OF CALIFORNIA }
COUNTY OF KERN } SS
CITY OF TAFT }
I, Faith Melton, City Clerk of the City of Taft, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution was duly and regularly adopted by the City Council of the City of Taft at a regular meeting thereof held on the 4th day of August, 2026.
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
NAYS: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
ABSTAIN: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
Faith Meton, City Clerk
July 28, 2026
Taft City Council
City of Taft
209 East Kern Street
Taft, CA 93268
Dear Mayor and Members of the Taft City Council,
On behalf of BP Promotions, I respectfully submit this proposal requesting the City's conditional conceptual approval to host the inaugural AMA-sanctioned Taft GP Downtown Street Supermoto Race on October 16–17, 2026.
At this stage, we are requesting conditional conceptual approval so that we may begin advertising the event, securing participants and sponsors, and developing the comprehensive event plans necessary for final approval.
The Taft GP has the potential to become a premier attraction for the City of Taft, providing affordable, family-friendly entertainment while bringing visitors from throughout California and beyond to downtown Taft. Those visitors will generate additional revenue for local restaurants, hotels, retail businesses, and other establishments throughout the community.
The event will also create opportunities for local businesses, organizations, and exhibitors through a vendor marketplace. Vendor registration will be coordinated by West Side Recreation & Park District, providing an additional source of revenue to supportits community programs and services.
BP Promotions will remain solely responsible for the planning, organization, and operation of the race itself.
The Downtown Street Supermoto Race will be held in conjunction with Flat Track racing at Franklin Field Arena, hosted by Taft native Rob Hale and Honolulu Hills Flat Track. Together, these complementary events have the opportunity to create a full weekend destination for racing enthusiasts and families, encouraging visitors to stay longer, support local businesses, and experience everything Taft has to offer.
We recognize that public safety and insurance requirements are the highest priorities for an event of this nature. BP Promotions is committed to meeting or exceeding all safety standards established by the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA), as well as all requirements established by the City of Taft and its insurance providers. We are prepared to provide any fencing, water barriers, hay bales, or other safety measures necessary to ensure a safe environment for participants, spectators, volunteers, and the public.
We also understand that a downtown street event will require temporary street closures and traffic control measures. Every effort will be made to maintain access to downtown businesses and properties whenever possible and to minimize disruptions. Because racing activities will occur during daytime hours, we believe the impact on the community can be effectively managed while maximizing the economic benefits of the event.
Should the City grant conditional conceptual approval of this proposal, BP Promotions will prepare and submit a complete event plan for review and final approval. This plan will include proposed street closures and traffic control measures, the race course layout, staging and pit locations, vendor locations, spectator areas, fencing and safety barriers, insurance documentation, emergency response planning, and any additional information required by the City of Taft, the AMA, or other applicable agencies.
Our goal is to establish the Taft GP as an annual event that showcases the community, supports local businesses, and grows alongside other successful community events—including during Oildorado celebration years.
We respectfully request your consideration of this proposal and your conditional conceptual approval to begin the planning process. We appreciate the opportunity to present this vision and look forward to returning with a complete event plan for the City's review and final consideration.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Bronson Pearce Rob Hale
BP Promotions LLC Honolulu Hills Flat Track
DOWNTOWN SUPERMOTO RACING PROPOSAL BY BP PROMOTIONS
BACKGROUND
The event organizer has submitted a proposal identifying a preliminary race circuit utilizing public streets within the downtown district. The proposed course has been reviewed at a conceptual level by City staff to determine general feasibility.
The proposed event is anticipated to include:
• MotoGP racing competition
• Practice and qualifying sessions
• Fan experience areas
• Vendor and hospitality areas
• Entertainment programming
The event is expected to generate substantial visitor activity while promoting tourism, local business activity, and regional economic development.
ECONOMIC IMPACT
Based upon information provided by the event organizer and preliminary economic analysis, the event is anticipated to provide measurable economic benefits including:
• Increased hotel occupancy
• Higher restaurant and retail sales
• Increased sales tax and transient occupancy tax revenues • Temporary employment opportunities
• Increased tourism and future visitation
A detailed fiscal analysis and final economic impact study will accompany the final Special Event Permit request.
COMMUNITY IMPACTS
Because the proposed event would occur within the downtown street district, staff recognizes that community impacts are a primary consideration. Areas requiring additional planning include:
Traffic and Transportation
• Temporary street closures
• Traffic detours
• Emergency vehicle access
• Resident access
• Parking management
Public Safety
The event will require coordinated planning among:
• Police Department
• Fire Department
• Emergency Medical Services
• Public Works
Business Access
Promoters will work with downtown businesses to:
• Maintain customer access where feasible
• Provide advance closure schedules
• Coordinate deliveries
• Develop business communication plans
• Promote downtown commerce before, during, and after the event Neighborhood Impacts
Potential impacts include:
• Noise
• Temporary road closures
• Parking demand
• Event-related congestion
Mitigation measures will be communicated by promoters with affected residents, businesses, and community stakeholders.
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS
Preliminary approval does not commit City funds beyond those necessary for continued evaluation and negotiations.
Prior to final approval, the City will negotiate an agreement addressing:
• Permit Fees to cover city staff costs
• Police and fire staffing
• Public works support
• Insurance requirements
• Indemnification
• Security detail
• Cleanup and restoration
• Infrastructure protection
NEXT STEPS
If preliminary approval is granted, staff will:
1. Continue negotiations and communication with the event organizer.
2. Complete detailed operational planning.
3. Finalize traffic and street closure plans.
4. Complete public safety planning.
5. Finalize a Special Event Agreement.
6. Return to City Council with a recommendation for final approval.