(Approved September 22, 2026)
REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
Tuesday, August 25, 2026
6:00 p.m.
1. Meeting called to order at 6:00 by President Schendel, Director Craig leads Pledge of Allegiance.
2. Directors/Guests present: Directors all present. Guest Michael Tuerpe present.
Mr. Tuerpe, Asst. Exec Officer for LAFCO of San Bernardino County is present to answer questions and provide information regarding letter received by all Directors and office regarding a countywide service review for local park and recreation services. The summary of an approximate 45-minute discussion is as follows: The proposed draft of the recommendation of LAFCO is that the City of Barstow consider initiating the application to dissolve the “BHCSD” and assume responsibility of the two parks. The Board disagrees with the recommendation and will provide a letter prior to the September 16, 2026, meeting regarding LAFCO’s service review. Mr. Tuerpe provides a brief history of the operations of the parks in question. After discussion and shared information, conclusions are as follows: The Board agrees that BHCSD has administrative capacity, sufficient finances, and the ability to continue operations and business “as usual” within the scope of normal and daily operations. Most notable is the report indicates financial statements were not provided. The District disputes this finding as this information was provided to the County of San Bernardino. The Board concludes that due to misinformation and broken communication, the documents were most likely not provided to the correct department, person, or agency. A letter will be drafted and sent to the Commission for review.
3. Approval/consent items: Minutes of 7/28/2026 and July financials. Motion for approval of all items by Director Craig second by Director Low. Motion carried/items approved, no discussion/opposition.
4. Directors Comments/New Business:
Director Roeder-German proposes another mural (3’x10’) and park signs for the parks. Board agrees. Also, for an extension of Tai Chi at H Street due to cancellation of previous sessions.
Director Craig asks for any update regarding proposed extension of Veteran’s Parkway, which could affect the Heights area. Indications are it will be a long time before that goes through. She also notifies Board she will be absent on September 22, 2026, meeting.
Director Stradling asks about toddler swings at both parks and if grant money can be used for those. All indications are to proceed with task.
President Schendel suggests grass removal in specific places of parks and installation of benches in those areas.
5. Pending Business/Updates/Follow-up:
Reyes Landscaping is back and working in the community after a brief interruption, however the break did not affect work at the parks.
6. Parks:
a. Barstow Heights Park— No further updates.
b. Venner Park— Swings, exercise equipment, cameras, lighting for the basketball court, and bulletin boards are in the works.
7. Correspondence: Reviewed by Board. No action taken.
8. Office Building and Area: Nothing to address.
9. General Manager’s report (attached): Report reviewed. Some discussion held. Board prefers the idea of a community/area wide yard sale to take place on a specific date. For the upcoming election in November, Directors Roeder-German and Craig have agreed to re-appointment on the Board as no candidates have submitted papers for election. Carol will proceed with proper procedure for appointments.
10. Executive Session/Personnel GC54957.1: Not required.
Adjournment at 7:58 p.m.
Next Regular Meeting: Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at 6:00 p.m.
