The following 9 points are the Platform that Mayor Courtney promoted during the campaign. As we move forward these are the goals that we will work toward in improving our community. Check back here for updates on how we are doing on each item.
PUBLIC SAFETY / Barstow Fire and EMS
As Mayor, ("Backing the Red"!), I plan on continuing to exhaust all efforts to keep the Barstow Fire Protection District under local control (under the City of Barstow); and having a separate Fire Commission with commissioners made up of one commissioner from each city district, 1,2,3,4 and a member-at-large.
Our Fire Department has been under appreciated and misunderstood for far too long.
PUBLIC SAFETY / Barstow Police
As Mayor (Backing the Blue!) . . . I propose a goal of fifty police officers on our streets, supported by the highest quality training and the best in new technology. Additional funding would come from the passing of Measure Q, re-prioritizing categorical funds that are available, and partnering with outside law enforcement agencies in the County-wide and State-wide illegal drug trafficking intervention enforcement efforts. Seized assets will then be shared with our Police Department as a continuous source of newly generated revenue, designated to law enforcement efforts. A safer community, a better Barstow. NOTE: All financial commitment (s) will be based on the outcome of the overall COVID-19 pandemic financial impact on our city.
Police Commission, I support the idea of creating a Citizens Police/Public Safety over-site committee. There would be one committee member from each district and one member-at-large. The committee would be tasks with brainstorming ideas to improve transparency and create policy proposals that best services the overall public safety objectives of our city.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT and CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
As Mayor, I want to help create a climate that encourages businesses and entrepreneurs to follow their ingenuity and invest in their ideas in Barstow. I propose that newly formed "small businesses" receive a 50% reduction in the City of Barstow required start-up fees and costs during the *1st full year of doing business.
I propose that the City of Barstow re-form and formulate a "true partnership" with the Barstow Area Chamber of Commerce and support a "win-win" success enhancement and creative business growth environment. NOTE: All financial commitment (s) will be based on the outcome of the overall COVID-19 pandemic financial impact on our city.
*City license, Occupancy Permit, Fire Permit.
TRANSPARENCY & TERM LIMITS
As Mayor, I propose that the city finances be thoroughly reviewed by an outside entity and reviewed by the newly formed "citizen finance over-site committee" as well as the sitting mayor and council members. All findings are to be presented in an OPEN forum and presented to the general public in multiple presentations.
TERM LIMITS
New perspectives can provide different types of influence and that can inspire changes. As Mayor, I propose a maximum of two terms, eight years for any elected Mayor and Council Members. Benefit: No career politicians AND creates a pathway for NEW ideas and opinions.
EDUCATION / RECREATION / KIDS
As Mayor, I propose that the city-owned Community Center be open daily for extended hours to support a city directed "after school" Student Success Enhancement Services Programs, i.e.: homework, tutoring assistance, recreational activities, "teen-specific" area, as well as creating a "safe place" for our children.
RECREATION I propose that the "city league" methodology and community-based accountability initiative be put in place. I propose that the Park and Recreation Commission be reestablished to empower parents and community leader's at-large to have a voice and influence at the table . . . One commissioner from each city district and one member-at-large. NOTE: All financial commitment (s) will be based on the outcome of the overall COVID-19 pandemic financial impact on our city.
HOMELESS / TRANSIENT ISSUE
Our quality of life in Barstow should strive to match the quality of our nice climate. As Mayor, I will lead the efforts to tackle the homeless and ever-growing population of the “dumping” of transients on our city streets.
I propose to create a position of “Health and Welfare Officer”. The funding will come from the existing categorical grant funds that the city already receives to address "real world" social justice issues. NOTE: All financial commitment (s) will be based on the outcome of the overall COVID-19 pandemic financial impact on our city.
HOUSING STARTS
As Mayor, I propose to create a working relationship and partnership(s) with local home builders to “jump-start” new home building. Homes would initially be built (1) house at a time. NOTE: Historically, multi-home builders have chosen not to build in Barstow because of unfavorable demographic concerns and this fact remains to date. NOTE: All financial commitment (s) will be based on the outcome of the overall COVID-19 pandemic financial impact on our city.
SENIORS
As Mayor, I propose that the City creates an active and engaged partnership with the Barstow Senior Center. This active partnership will better serve and service our ever-increasing senior population. Initial funds and funding will come from the “promised” MeasureQ sales tax increase income. NOTE: All financial commitment (s) will be based on the outcome of the overall COVID-19 pandemic financial impact on our city.
NEW INCOME OPPORTUNITIES
As Mayor, I propose to create a “central grant-writing” professional position. This expert will focus solely on acquiring funds and funding for public safety, youth, senior, and social justice success enhancement systems and programs. I pledge to personally lobby legislators in San Bernardino County, Sacramento, and Washington DC to ensure that the City of Barstow receives its fair share of funding for all programs and systems that the City of Barstow qualifies for. NOTE: All financial commitment (s) will be based on the outcome of the overall COVID-19 pandemic financial impact on our city.
Press Releases
BNSF BIG – Barstow International Gateway
BNSF announced plans to construct Barstow International Gateway which will be a first of its kind intermodal facility with warehouses and transloading on-site and a switching yard for containers coming in and out of the ports of LA and Long Beach.
City of Barstow’s New Chief Nick DiNapoli
We are delighted to introduce Chief Nick DiNapoli as the new leader of the Barstow Fire Protection District. With an unwavering commitment to public safety and a proven track record of delivering high-quality services, Chief DiNapoli brings a wealth of experience to his new role. As a retired firefighter and current Acting Fire Chief…
Barstow Police Department Community Survey
Please take a short survey and help safeguard the community together. Click here or scan the code below to get started.
Barstow Stands Against Sexual Violence:
The City of Barstow held a city council meeting on Monday, April 3rd, 2023, where they had the honor of presenting a proclamation to Partners Against Violence for Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM). The City of Barstow is committed to promoting safety, respect, and consent, and recognizes that sexual violence affects individuals and communities of…
New Educational Page added to the Menu
Be sure to visit our new ‘EDUCATION TAB‘ in the menu today!!
WHY CHOOSE BARSTOW?
The Inland Empire (IE) is one of the top industrial real estate markets in the U.S. With 22 million people living within 100 miles of the IE, demand for warehouse space well as entitled land remains high for industrial real estate in the region. Positioned close to the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach,…
NOW IS THE TIME TO INVEST IN BARSTOW
“The City provides opportunities to new and expanding commercial and industrial businesses through investments it has made in major infrastructural systems that provide companies with immediate access to markets at costs that are among the most affordable in California. Joseph W. Brady, Co-managing partner, Barstow Spanish Trail LLC and President, The Bradco Companies
HISTORICAL LANDMARKS
Barstow is nestled against the Calico Mountains and the Molave River in Southern Californias picturesque San Bernardino Count and serves as a transportation gateway for points west to east. Barstow IS strategically located along two major interstate that connect Caltornia to Nevada. Arizona and beyond, as well as seven airports within a 130 mile radius.
17th annual New Mexico Chili Cook-off’s and Belen Fiestas!
What an amazing time we had at the 17th annual New Mexico Chili Cook-off’s and Belen Fiestas! Our Barstow city council members and Mayor made sure to attend this fantastic event and express their gratitude to the community for coming out. We were also thrilled to have California State Treasurer Fiona Ma in attendance, who…
BetterBarstow.com
Thank you Barstow! We pulled together for change, and Voted Paul A. Courtney for Mayor. Now the work begins on making the plans put forth in our platform happen.
This website will keep you posted as each goal is realized. You will also want to check here for Volunteer opportunities to get involved. #BarstowStrong