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City Council - Joint Special Meeting CC/BFPD/Odesa/Harvey House - Video
Published: Jun 16, 2026
Waste Collection Rate Increase Approved, But Residential Rate Hike Deferred
The council conducted a public hearing and approved Burtek Waste Industries' request for a Consumer Price Index (CPI) increase of 3.28% to their waste collection and recycling services rates. While the CPI increase was approved, the council decided to hold off on implementing the associated $1.71 per month rate increase for residents, utilizing a surplus to absorb the cost for the current year. Discussions also touched upon the profitability of recycling services and the potential impact of upcoming state legislation regarding organics.
Public Comment Highlights Concerns on Cemetery Takeover, Development Oversight, and Community Initiatives
Several public speakers addressed the council regarding various community issues. Mark Sluter critiqued the city's analysis of the cemetery takeover and the LAFCO process. Mike Hernandez raised concerns about development agreements, taxpayer protection, and funding for public services related to the BIG project. Gene Bucci of the Chamber of Commerce spoke in support of the BIG project, highlighting its potential for job creation. Other speakers touched on city appearance, homeless issues, potential legal actions, and thanked city leaders for their work. Vanessa Pack highlighted the work of the Barstow Action Committee and its subcommittees in addressing community concerns and improving city services.
Council Addresses Closed Session Reports, Public Concerns, and Governance Updates
The City Council engaged in discussions and received reports on various governance matters. The City Attorney provided an update on closed session discussions regarding labor negotiations and the City Manager's contract. Public comments raised questions about transparency in development agreements and city finances. Council members reported on their attendance at numerous community events and committee meetings, highlighting city progress and thanking staff. The City Manager addressed public comments and provided updates on city initiatives, including the BIG project oversight, cemetery support, and the upcoming Juneteenth recognition.
Council Reviews LAFCO Report on Cemetery District; Public Expresses Concerns
The City Council considered Item 13, an analysis of the Local Agency Formation Commission's (LAFCO) 2024 report on the Barstow Cemetery District. The recommended action was to receive and file the report, reevaluate the city's and district's long-term sustainability in three to five years, and continue supporting the district through in-kind services. Public comments from Mark Sluter expressed significant dissatisfaction with the LAFCO report's analysis, criticizing its lack of data and outlining the extensive LAFCO requirements for a cemetery takeover, suggesting the city's approach was insufficient.
City Manager Contract Extended with Salary Increase; Design Contract Awarded for Pedestrian/Bicycle Project
The City Council approved an amendment to the employment agreement for City Manager Rochelle Clayton, extending her contract by three years and increasing her annual salary to $300,000. The agreement also includes a 12-month severance component, a $750 monthly auto allowance, and an extended 120-day period for potential termination by the council. Public comment questioned the reasonableness of the salary compared to the state governor's salary and the source of the funds. Separately, the council approved the award of a design contract to KOA AHW Lochner Inc. Company for traffic engineering, design, and environmental services for the city's pedestrian, bicycle, and safe routes to school project, with a budget of $572,670.
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City Council Meeting 6-16-26
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