OHV'ers RESPOND IN HUGE NUMBERS
Received From www.calcitynews.com

 

 

OHV’ers CONTINUE TO RESPOND Re; OHV TRAILS & LICENSE – PART 2

 

I, my family, and many friends have been dirt riding in Cal City since 1968. Haven’t seen much change on the landscape, a few houses by Galileo Hill, a prison, Silver Saddle, but not much else. The OHV idea is a perfect fit for an area that has literally no jobs to bring in new people. It is a business booster and (especially now) with the current economic conditions, should be allowed. I do not mind the new fees, even considering the fact I usually spend a lot of money while there. Promoting  the area as a OHV haven, should have been done many years ago. Please Please, do not let the naysayers shut this down. It will hurt us all.

My name is Carol Dyer.  I have been riding in California City for 37 years, back when we could still camp at Galileo Hill, and have seen all the changes through the years. 

 

I would like to attend the meeting this evening, and speak, however don't know if that will be possible as I work in a law office in the San Fernando Valley, which is also where I live, and it's hour and a half drive from Cal City.  I really think it should be discussed tonight to have a "special" meeting on the OHV subject, giving plenty of notice to the interested parties and possibly even schedule for a Saturday when the interested parties can attend.  I personally know many people who want to attend, however can not due to work and short notice.  There are many, many riders who probably didn't even get notice of this meeting.

 

I was taught as a kid, and we continue to teach our kids, and the new people we introduce to the desert, about keeping the desert clean, staying on trails in the appropriate areas, "following the rules", safety on the trail and wearing the proper gear, courtesy to other riders, etc. 

 

Regarding the OHV license, I have no problem paying the minimal fee for this license, even if it only covered the DIRT, medical help, ambulance and helicopter services that the money goes to.  While I have not personally had to use those services, I know people who have and I believe its a necessary, and the most important, service out there.  I have seen other improvements such as a second dump station, and additional dumpsters, and while I don't use those services, I can see the need.  I also, however, don't feel the fee should be any higher than it is.  We've all already had our green stickers go up in price, and with multiple bike families, it has easily gotten unaffordable.

 

As far as the new trail going into Cal City, I can't make any comments as we have not used that trail or gone into the city on our bikes.  I think it is definitely a good thing as far as revenue to the city.  The only comment I have on that is people need to teach each other, and police each other (remind the other people in your group) to 1) stay on the trails, 2) when in town go the appropriate speed limit, 3) be courteous to businesses and residents, 4) pick up your own trash and 5) just like when we go to Randsburg, "don't ruin it for everybody else".  If the rules are not followed, it will be closed down and everyone will loose.

 

I personally don't feel that "Cal City is the only city in the Western States who welcomes OHVs with open arms".  While I have not done any research on the subject, Randsburg, just an hour away, and allows OHV into the town.  Moab, Utah is another.  I have had friends tell me of other Utah towns that allow the same.  I am sure there are others.  However, Cal City is the closest for us, we enjoy the riding there and hope we can continue for many years to come.

 

Thank you,

 

Carol Dyer

818/469-1256

 

Brad & Carol

My name is Carol Dyer.  I have been riding in California City for 37 years, back when we could still camp at Galileo Hill, and have seen all the changes through the years. 

 

I would like to attend the meeting this evening, and speak, however don't know if that will be possible as I work in a law office in the San Fernando Valley, which is also where I live, and it's hour and a half drive from Cal City.  I really think it should be discussed tonight to have a "special" meeting on the OHV subject, giving plenty of notice to the interested parties and possibly even schedule for a Saturday when the interested parties can attend.  I personally know many people who want to attend, however can not due to work and short notice.  There are many, many riders who probably didn't even get notice of this meeting.

 

I was taught as a kid, and we continue to teach our kids, and the new people we introduce to the desert, about keeping the desert clean, staying on trails in the appropriate areas, "following the rules", safety on the trail and wearing the proper gear, courtesy to other riders, etc. 

 

Regarding the OHV license, I have no problem paying the minimal fee for this license, even if it only covered the DIRT, medical help, ambulance and helicopter services that the money goes to.  While I have not personally had to use those services, I know people who have and I believe its a necessary, and the most important, service out there.  I have seen other improvements such as a second dump station, and additional dumpsters, and while I don't use those services, I can see the need.  I also, however, don't feel the fee should be any higher than it is.  We've all already had our green stickers go up in price, and with multiple bike families, it has easily gotten unaffordable.

 

As far as the new trail going into Cal City, I can't make any comments as we have not used that trail or gone into the city on our bikes.  I think it is definitely a good thing as far as revenue to the city.  The only comment I have on that is people need to teach each other, and police each other (remind the other people in your group) to 1) stay on the trails, 2) when in town go the appropriate speed limit, 3) be courteous to businesses and residents, 4) pick up your own trash and 5) just like when we go to Randsburg, "don't ruin it for everybody else".  If the rules are not followed, it will be closed down and everyone will loose.

 

I personally don't feel that "Cal City is the only city in the Western States who welcomes OHVs with open arms".  While I have not done any research on the subject, Randsburg, just an hour away, and allows OHV into the town.  Moab, Utah is another.  I have had friends tell me of other Utah towns that allow the same.  I am sure there are others.  However, Cal City is the closest for us, we enjoy the riding there and hope we can continue for many years to come.

Thank you,

 

Carol Dyer

818/469-1256

Brad & Carol

 

My name is Brad Myers.

 

I have a serious investment in CalCity as I own two rental properties.  I am also a motorcycle rider and motorcycle riding is how I was introduced to the city.  If it wasn't for motorcycle riding and the time I've spent in this community, I would have never invested my hard earned money in this area.  Without the motorcycles this town will die.  I don't want to see that happen.  I enjoy riding in the area and enjoy the people that I have met in town.  If you want to keep people like me interested in your community, you must have activities for them.

 

Thank you.

 

Dear Editor,   I will be unable to attend the March 3rd City Council Meeting.  I would like to convey to you that four generations of my family have been going to California City for many years because of the OHV Trail Program.  We shop in the California City store, buy gas in the gas stations, and eat in the resteraunts.  To end this program would be the end of a long tradition for my family, not to mention the devestation of California City businesses.  With out the OHV Trail Program I would not have a reason to visit California City or spend any of my money in California City.  My family has really enjoyed the time we spent in California City and look forward to spending our weekends and vacations in your city to ride in your OHV Trail Program.  If you know of anything I can do to help save the OHV Trail Program, please let me know.   Thank you   Jeff Nichols -- jeff nichols [grumpee1@verizon.net]   To the California City Council, please extend the OHV trail system. We have camped at Camp C at least twice per year for the last 13 years.We spend between 3 and 5 days camping and riding. We generally spend between $300- to $1000- dollars each trip on food, fuel, wood or the Cal City Ambulance service (nothing too bad, a few broken collar bones). We have raised two children and taught them how to ride and many life lessons at Cal City. We sincerely hope we don't lose this resource. Thank you, the Brian Mussetter family. 251 Whiteside Place, Thousand Oaks CA. 91362. 805-857-0336   1.I think your OHV trail program is a opportunity for families to play together and stay together. 2.I educate those who come to ride in the desert, to enjoy what we have, don't take for granted, clean up after yourselves and only leave tire prints. 3.We think the license is fantastic. we have no problem paying a fee. to enjoy our desert. we are extremely happy with the improvements and the police presents. 4.Cal City should have a large fine to those who do not stay on the designated trails, or impound bike, and work off by cleaning deserts. 5.We can help  Cal City by being conscious of what we have  and it can go all away. 6.Yes, we feel Cal City should keep open arms for us OHV, We think its beneficial to the local economy we utilize the local businesses from restaurants, gas stations,auto parts, hardware, to grocery stores. 7.Last comments would be: we always make a serious effort to clean up other people's trash so others can enjoy. We always look forward to coming to Cal city its one of my families favorite places to go during the year. Lots of memories, from Having Thanksgiving dinner with family and friends, to watching a  friend ride for the first time. And we   are looking forward to many more memories in Cal City.   Sincerely The Brittan's of Simi Valley, Calif. -- Tom & Jen Brittan [dontbugtomjen@adelphia.net]   To: California City Council Members From: Gabriel Williams Date: March2, 2009 Re: Cal. City OHV trails Council Members, I am writing in support of the Cal. City OHV Trail Program. The OHV Trail Program is a very progressive program that I hope to see implemented in other neighboring communities. As a former resident (1974‐1988) I can understand the difficulties in managing the number of OHV’s that recreate in your town. However, I feel with a small amount of trial and error, the town can have a completely manageable and sustainable OHV trail system that will undoubtedly benefit the local economy. I believe Cal City can look to the success of similar OHV town trail systems in the Paiute OHV Trail system in Central Utah in which several small rural communities welcome OHV’s through well‐marked trails. I look forward to visiting Cal. City soon and utilizing the OHV trails. Kind Regards, Dr. Gabriel Williams D.O.M. Orem, Ut  --  Gabriel Williams [gamywilliams@mac.com]   PLEASE, PLEASE, KEEP THE TRAILS OPEN ,PLEASE DON'T BOW TO THOES THAT DON'T LIKE ANYONE TO ENJOY THE OFF ROAD TRAILS. I DON'T PLAY GOLF BUT HAVE TO PAY FOR GOLF COURSES, I DON'T GO TO PARKS DUE TO DRUG DEALERS AND THE LIKE.BUT I PAY FOR THEM. THIS IS THE THING I ENJOY DOOING THE MOST. AND MY CHILDREN. PLEASE LET'S KEEP IT OPEN FOR ALL TO ENJOY.    ers [ers@kernmail.com] Just got your email JIm. Some thoughts you can pass along. I use the cal city area about 3 or 4 times a year. The other times I try to get up in the mountains - Sequoia area. I don't mind paying a fee to use the OHV trails,  as long as the money goes toward maintence and policing. I don't like to ride with a bunch of loud and drunk idiots.  I also don't like the money being tapped when the government coffers get low. I'm generally happy with the way things are out there, but I'm concerned that more and more land is being taking away from us due to lack of funding. I live in Ventura county and would use the area more if I was closer. Thanks  Don Hale  tele. 805-445-9423   Donald Hale [donaldhale@verizon.net] TO THE EDITOR@CALCITYNEWS.COM.   REFERENCING THE MEETING OF TUESDAY, MARCH 3RD. THE OHV TRAIL PROGRAM. MY FAMILY HAS BEEN RIDING IN CAL CITY SINCE 1973 AND WE HAVE SEEN THE DEVELOPMENT OF CAL CITY THE LAST FEW YEARS.  WE NOW OWN TWO HOUSES, A COUPLE OF LOTS AND ARE PLANNING ON LIVING IN ONE OF THE HOUSES IN THE FUTURE AND BUILDING ANOTHER ONE. WE WOULD NEVER HAVE INVESTED IN BUILDING IN CAL CITY IF IT WASN'T FOR THE YEARS OF MOTORCYCLE RIDING IN THE AREA.  WE HAVE WATCHED THE NUMBERS OF PEOPLE GOING THROUGH CAL CITY AND USING YOUR STORES, RESTAURANTS AND I AM SURE WILL BE USING YOUR NEW HOTEL IN THE FUTURE.  I BELIEVE YOU NEED ONE OR TWO MORE RESTAURANTS THAT WOULD APPEAL TO THESE RIDERS AND THE PEOPLE OF THE COMMUNITY.   JUST A FEW MORE SIGNS REMINDING THE RIDERS OF THE PROPER PLACES TO RIDE OR STAY AWAY FROM AND THE IMPORTANCE OF IT, WOULD PROBABLY CUT SOME PROBLEMS.   I USED TO THINK OF CAL CITY AS A GHOST TOWN AND CERTAINLY WOULD NOT HAVE BUILT IN CAL CITY IF WE HAD NOT SEEN THE IMPROVEMENTS. THERE ARE ALWAYS PEOPLE WHO DISLIKE STREET MOTORCYCLES AND OR ANY OFF ROAD VEHICLES.  I BELIEVE IT IS MORE IMPORTANT TO BRING ATTENTION TO CAL CITY IN ORDER TO GROW AND THIS IS THE BIGGEST WAY TO DO IT.....ONE OF THE BEST ADVERTISEMENTS.   OUR FAMILY CERTAINLY DOES NOT WANT TO SEE CAL CITY GO BACKWARDS.  YOU DO NEED POPULATION IN ORDER TO RETAIN THE IMPROVEMENTS .   I DO NEED A LITTLE MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE OHV TRAIL PROGRAM.... I AM GOING TO TRY AND MAKE IT TO THE MEETING.  BUT IT IS A LITTLE SHORT NOTICE FOR SOME OF US.. janiceandleon@sbcglobal.net   Janice Dyer   I won't be able to attend the meeting, but would like to share some of my thoughts.   March 2, 2009 City Council, My family has camped in your OHV area on two holiday weekends last year, our first visits to your area. We had a great time. We also take our responsibility to tread lightly seriously and make sure our children understand the importance of same. We make sure our area is clean and undamaged when we leave. I think that those that disregard the rules should be cited, just like speeders on the public roads. The freeways are not shut down because of speeders, law enforcement deals with them appropriately. I think that the Cal City OHV License is great. Helps law enforcement maintain control and provides improvements. It’s very reasonably priced.  I would rather see the fees raised than see the area closed.  I've been camping for 60 years and have noted that the irresponsible ones are more inclined to go to the free places and avoid the fee areas. I’m sure that some of the detractors would like to see the program ended whether the visitors treat the land good or bad. They would prefer not to have visitors of any kind. There are economic pluses for the community, though and I believe that in all economic climates the local economy benefits from the recreationists. I think that most would agree that the campers bring income to the local businesses. A note to the detractors, the activity is primarily only on the holiday weekends. My family stayed for a couple of days after the New Year’s weekend and there wasn’t another occupied campsite in view. Patrick Luke Northridge, CA 818-360-9444 -- Patrick Luke [genmail@dslextreme.com] I will not be able to attend. However I have seen vast improvement in Borax Bill Park and the dump/refuse station.I also have not seen anyone riding OHV's on any city streets in my travels (other than to cross 20 mule team road). MSgt John P. Eldridge Jr. Team Condor Operations NCOIC (805)986-7545 DSN:893-7545 Cell:(805)377-9541 --  Eldridge John P MSgt 146ALCF/LGM [john.eldridge@cachan.ang.af.mil] To Whom It May Concern:   I find myself at a loss for words as I attempt to comprehend the rational behind closing the Cal City Desert area to OHV’s. The good people of Cal City and the Bureau of Land Management recently established new guide lines for the OHV area. These guide lines set forth a management system that benefits not only the users but, the tax payers of Cal City as well. Approved trail systems were designated; trails that take riders around protected areas. Violations were set for those who disobey the rules and venture off the designated trails. A new user fee was implemented to offset the costs of managing the OHV area. Trails were built to allow riders the opportunity to ride into town for food, gas or supplies. It seems ironic to me that this turn of events falls shortly after the passing of quality ordinances. I personally understand the need for give and take and I understand that not all follow the letter of intent. But I ask of you please refrain from punishing the majority for the wrongs of the minority. Let the new system take hold before deciding its fate. Enforce the rules and let those who disregard them pay the price. My family and friends will gladly abide by these rules. We will absolutely pay the fees and patronage your town for the privilege of ridding in your back yard.     Thank you, for your time   Brad Basset  --  Basset, Brad [Brad.Basset@ladwp.com] Valencia Ca   I travel specifically to California City to offroad.  I don't mind paying the new city access fees and have been impressed by the high quality of services provided by the Police Department.  I purposely frequent local businesses to ensure they remain in business to not only provide an incentive to support offroading in the area, but to ensure they survive this economic cycle.  I am hopeful the community will continue to support offroading in the area.   Jim Wismar --  Jim Wismar [jwismar1@pacbell.net] Simi Valley I have a 6 and 9 year old boy and girl.  They have both been riding since they were 4.  We have been frequenting Cal City the past four years because of the friendly nature to OHVers. I have no problem paying the use fee.  The city does a spectacular job w/ the police force and creating a positive environment.  I think the trial into town is genius.  It gives me another option to take my 6 year old daughter.  She can't ride to Randsburg, but she can make it to Cal City.  It gives her a destination and amazing sense of accomplishment. We are hard working family oriented people.  I understand there are some negative incidents, but isn't that in all facets of life?  We have many good officers and some bad, same w/ teachers, car mechanics, nurses or doctors.  But do we close a whole profession for the inappropiate acts of a few? Please take the totality of the program into account when you're making this important decision.  I have many friends who go to the desert and we are frequenting Cal City now because of your great trails program. I would love to be at the meeting but the 400 mile round trip is tough during the week, but I gladly do it many weekends through out the year. If you need any help or volunteers to keep the program flourishing please don't hesitate to contact me. Thanks, Chris Andrade Clovis, CA (next to Fresno) 559-285-3060 orator@sbcglobal.net

 

 

OHV IN CAL CITY, IN TROUBLE OR NOT?

Read what some of the OHV’ers are saying about the current OHV Program in California City. Soon, the City Council will be making its decision whether to continue the program or end it in June. The enthusiasts who have sent the e-mails below would like state their position and also address some of the concerns by the City and detractors of the program.

 

 

I have used the OHV Trail System in the California City area and currently have 5 motorcycles with the Cal City sticker. I can’t thank the City enough for this program. My family has enjoyed riding in the Cal City area for many years and the cooperation between government, law enforcement and off-road enthusiasts has been remarkable. It’s too bad that a few bad apples are riding in the wrong places but I can assure you that the great majority of people camping and riding along Twenty Mule Team Rd. care very much about maintaining a good relationship with the residents of California City.  The legal trail into town is still relatively new and perhaps some riders might get a little lost when they use it for the first time. Perhaps the Sheriff’s Deputies who sell the stickers could emphasize the rules a bit more and maybe write some warning tickets to riders found in the wrong place. There has been a perception in the past that a person could ride into Cal City on a dirt bike without penalty and that of course needs to change through education and enforcement. It is great that off-roaders can ride into town and we don’t want to lose that privilege. Randsburg is an example of an ongoing education process wherein we riders are continually teaching the rules to riders who experience the trip into town for the first time. Thanksgiving weekend in that town brings wall-to-wall off-road vehicles and the vast majority follow the rules and those that don’t will hear about it from responsible riders who appreciate the fragile partnership that allows us to visit the businesses in town that welcome our presence.

 

Sincerely,

Dave Beaumont

 

Dear Editor,

    I live in Montana, and just heard of your upcoming city meeting regarding the riding area and the riders that use it.  I want to thank the city of California City for their past hosting of me and my family and friends who come down each year to escape the frozen north and enjoy a week of sunshine and great riding experiences.   We plan and look forward to our visit each year with much excitement, so you can plainly see that we are for the continued openess by your city toward us and other responsible off road enthusiasts who use the area surrounding California City.  I grew up in Southern California, and as a boy spent many fun weekends riding in the desert in and around California City (1968-late 1970's).    Please do all that you can to help us keep coming back for more.   When we are down again this March 19th through 22nd (only 3 weeks away!) I will make it a point to bring the family in for a visit to town, and dinner at a local restaurant.  Sincerely, Paul Beaumont  (beaumont@montanasky.us

 

Dear Editor,

Thank You for bringing this situation to our attention.

 

My Name is Stanley Hall, I live at 28351 Calex Dr Valencia CA 91354. My phone # is (805) 304-2331

 

I am an off-road enthusiast. I ride dirt bikes and have since childhood. I have introduced this sport to my family and friends.

We frequent the Cal City area regularly and have for years. One reason is because it is somewhat close. Another reason is because it offers a multitude of different types of terrain.

Sometimes we come out for the day and other times we camp for the weekend.

 

I want to express to you how important it is to keep this area open to the public for riding and camping and spending time in the outdoors area. It is one of very few areas left where people can. As you probably know the Metropolis of Los Angeles and most of Southern California is either covered by Private Property, Military bases, Parks, or Cities where the riding of OHV’s is restricted.

 

This is a outdoor activity area that is used by so many people, individuals, clubs,  and many, many of them are families.  These people represent the You and ME,  the working people, the taxpayers. The people who work hard, earn money and spend it on toys, equipment RV’s, fuel, and then come to California City and patronize the businesses.

 

I want to also express that I know a lot of people who visit California City and share my views on the importance of the area.

We ride and camp there and we are conscienscious.

People for the most part follow the rules and abide the trail markers. We understand the importance of taking care of the area.

 

Thank You very much for doing your best to keep Cal City open,

 

Mr. Peralta:

1. What do you think of the OHV Trail program?

To me, this is a forward thinking idea that the City has implemented.  It benefits both the off-road community that visit the City in providing a place to ride and helps out in terms of revenue for the business owners.  I assume the City gains revenue from these same business sales.

 

2. What are you doing to educate those who come with you about riding in our deserts?

I frequently encourage the riders I accompany to obey local rules and regulations and to be good ambassadors for the sport.  This comes naturally as law enforcement officer myself who has also supervised off-road enforcement details in San Diego County.

 

3. What do you think of the Cal City OHV License? Are you satisfied what is being done with that money? Have you seen the improvements in Borax Bill Park, the dumping areas, the signage?

The license is a great idea in terms of offsetting costs that the City funds now and shows fiscal responsibility to the local residents on how some of their tax dollars are being subsidized.  I'm not personally familiar with how the money is spent but it's evident that the City is making visible improvements.

 

4. What should the City do to those who do not stay on the designated trails into the City?

Enforcement through "Spirit vs. Letter of the Law".  Strong message to offenders how they are serving as poor ambassadors to the sport through the Cal City web site, fliers, high visibility patrol by peace officers and volunteers, and citations if necessary.  There's no reason that your City has to tolerate anarchy from riders who refuse to go by the rules.  I will tell you that I am not one of the City's problems.

 

5. How can you help our City maintain this program for many years?

I am but one voice among many; however, I do what I can (as mentioned above) to promote the most positive aspects of this program.  Compliance to the terms of the program in addition to serving as an example for others to follow does not detract from the program the City has implemented.

 

6. How do you feel about Cal City basically being the only city in the Western States, who welcomes OHV'ers with open arms? Should it remain as such?

California City is my favorite place to ride.  I live much closer to OHV areas in San Diego County but I do not go there.

 

7. And any other comment(s) you think important to the cause.

Only the hope that the voice of responsible off-roaders are given consideration in this manner.

I have lived in Cali City for two and a half years and love this place. I welcome off roaders if it were up to me I would let ride into town (ie.. to our stores) as long as they were safe…. any reckless driving… BIG FINE or the loss of your toy what ever that maybe

 

I say we leave it open, I like seeing all the off roaders come in full up at fast trip and union 76 eating at our restaurants shopping at our rite aid, or ACE . I just wish the off roaders could go as far as to Romons coyote café, chucks pizza and that doughnut shop we should open the roads for off roaders if they follow the rules what harm are they doing? I think we have some people here that just don’t want to see our city grow so they complain about every thing … food for thought if it’s the noise they don’t like what about the big motor cycle ride that goes through our city….Harleys are a lot louder (and sound better) but no one complains and they don’t spend a lot of money here, or the old tin car club we let them break the law by spinning the tires in a parade ( witch can be very dangerous (I like that sort of thing) how ever we can bend the rules on some things we need to be flexible with the HOV riders also. We need to open our eyes in these trying times if we kick the off roaders out we will lose what makes us the diamond of the desert . and I’ll have to move back to Tehachapi. L

 

Scott Miller

Electrical Supervisor

Lehigh Cement Company

Tehachapi,Ca.93561

Cell  661-972-7046

 

Hello California City folks,

 

I understand that your community is in the process of discussing what to do with the Cal City OHV Trail Program?

Of course that decision is yours to make, but the reason for my email is to bring to your attention the experience of myself and my family over the past ten years that we have been visiting California City to camp in the desert and ride dirt bikes.

We first started visiting California City almost exactly ten years ago, when we lived in Ventura County, with three boys ages 7, 4 and 1.  Ten years later, we live in Monterey County—a 5 hour trip away from Cal City—but we still come to visit several times each year.  Why?  Because Cal City is a unique destination for a family such as ours, who love to camp in the desert at least as much as we enjoy riding dirt bikes.  There are plenty of alternatives for hard-core dirt-bike riders, but no where else compares to Cal City for families.

So what are the implications of Cal City’s unique appeal to families?  By my calculations, we have visited Cal City 65 times over the past ten years, and we spent on average about $250 in Cal City for food, gas and merchandise during each trip, for a grand total of about $16,000 for Cal City businesses.  And that’s just our family.  There are hundreds—if not thousands—of others just like us. 

We are very appreciative of Cal City as our “host” and we have been model “guests” in return.  

Your fans in Monterey,

The O’Hagans

 

My name is Pete Markese.  I am a 65 year old retired professional now living in the Antelope Valley.  I have been riding and camping in the CalCity open area for over 30 years.  I have a large group of friends, both younger and older than myself, that truly cherish the off road experience offered in the CalCity area.  Without question it is our most favorite place to recreate in the desert.  We feel privileged to be able to use this OHV site and have always treated the area and its residents with total respect.  We always pack out more than we pack bring in and will openly confront and condemn those that do not do the same.  Our monthly off road adventure in the CalCity area is always guided within the designated use boundaries.  We would never operate outside of the rules and regulations stipulated by local law enforcement agencies, as we would never want to jeopardize our ability to continue to recreate in this area.   

The recently initiated use fee was at first misunderstood given our years of use without such a charge, but at the same time we took it right in stride recognizing the need to fund the emergency medical, law enforcement and clean-up that comes with the growing popularity of the area.  Believe me, my friends and I wish this growth in OHV use had not happened, as we too, recognize the problems inherit with same.  Selfishly we wish it was like it was years ago when there were only a few of us that knew of this wonderful site in which to camp with friends and family.  We know with the growing use there does exist growing problems with those that do not do their part in respecting the land and the surrounding community, and we support any new means viewed necessary by local community leaders to control and regulate this growing OHV use, whether that be higher use fees or more stringent law enforcement with fines for misconduct.  We wish there would be a way to catch and fine those that leave their trash and those that operate their off road vehicles recklessly or outside of designated trail boundaries.  We know it would take more law enforcement but if you could why not utilize a multi-level fine system for those that abuse this use privilege, i.e. with the first offense fine them; with the second offense triple the fine; and if there’s a third offense, lock them out all together!  In any case, we support whatever the CalCity community needs to do to regulate this use and protect its residents, but PLEASE don’t punish us all for the poor conduct of a few!

My friends and I support the CalCity community totally.  We appreciate the privilege you afford us and will always respect your wishes regarding our use of your open area.  We hope you recognize our contribution to your community and commit to do whatever we can to contribute to your local business prosperity.    

Thank you for the opportunity to be a part of the CalCity community!

Respectfully,   

Pete Markese

16754 East Avenue X  #42

Llano, Claifornia

661-944-3434

drtbikn@earthlink.net

I just wanted to let the city know that I very much approve of the OHV program.  I think it is about time that the city approved such a program.  There is nothing else in this city that will attract people from all over the state.  There have been so many bad decisions made by the city fathers in the past, that this city is a joke!  But now they have a chance to put California City on the map.  The best resource we have is that open desert all around us.  Take advantage of it!  More accommodation should be made to ride in the downtown area.  The police are fairly tolerant of violators, and I commend them for looking the other way now and then.

 

  I think the Police Department needs to be more tolerant.  You can not ask a rider to walk or trailer his bike from his home in a residential area, all the way to the open desert.  I would like to see a program that would allow local riders to access their homes, the gas station, McDonalds, the open desert, and other places without fear of being cited.  Perhaps some training by the PD on how to ride in the city safely.  There is a sticker available for desert riders!  Make one available for street riders as well.  Of course Cal City Blvd would always be off limits, but residential street could be open for to and from travel just like the golf carts are now.

 

  There will always be detractors.  The need to get over it!  I have street legal motorcycles going up and down my street every morning that make more noise that my grandson dirt bike.  It does not bother me in the least.

 

Don R. Jordan

 

Lou, I noticed your latest  post on Thumpertalk regarding the OHV trails in Cal City.  Although live in Utah (however, I grew up in Cal

City) I still ride out there quite a bit.

 

Regarding your comment, "6. How do you feel about Cal City basically being the only city in the Western States, who welcomes OHV'ers with open arms? Should it remain as such?"

 

Are you familiar with the Paiute Trail System in central Utah?  It was designed to link up many old, depressed rural communities in central Utah.  The towns cater to the OHV's and OHV's can legally  travel on the roads & highways in and around the towns. I know many of towns, particularly Marysville - kind of  the hub of the trail system, would be ghost towns if it wasn't for the trail system.

 

I don't know if you already have or if it may help to contact anyone regarding the system, legal hurdles, positive response from the towns people and maybe what has been done to keep people on designated routes through towns.

 

Here's a link  that has the maps, info and the towns that are along the trail. http://www.atvutah.com/southern/paiute.htm

 

Good Luck and thanks!

 

 

Gabriel Williams

(Mexihonkey on TT)

 

I just wanted to drop a line to urge the Cal city council to keep the ohv trail program open my family and I love coming to cal city and with all the new trails it just makes it that much better. So please keep the program open thank you for your time.

Shawn Bigney

128 west ave. Ramona       

San Clemente ca. 92672  

I would just like to express to you and the City Council, my feeling about California City OHV area. I live in Simi Valley, and my family along with five other family's enjoy camping and riding in California City at least once a month. We are happy with the licensing fees, and actually would not mind if they were increased a little more if that what it takes to keep the area open. The water, trash, vendors, and assistance that is available at the park is a great improvement.  We love getting out into the open desert with friends and families, and it is great to have an area like California City that is closer than any other riding area. We all respect the land and teach our kids to respect it also. We hope that the program continues for many years to come so that we are able to create many more great experiences and memories with our friends and families.   Respectfully,   Loren Klock

I was invited to your town for a town meeting on March 3rd unfortunately I will not be able to attend but I would like to make my voice heard The town of Cal City should do everything in there power to make the OHV welcomed to ride to cal city if you chose to make it difficult we the riders will just drive ten minutes down the road and ride somewhere else jaw bone red mountain spangler ????? the list goes on so it is cal city best interest to make the OHV riders welcomed

Thank you

Gene Owens

 

 

I will request time off from my boss. My boss actually likes to ride CalCity as well.  He did podium the Baja 1000 on a bike and still runs desert races in either a truck or Baja bug. I really believe that most of the problem is signage. I think large sign at the last turn away from the main road and into the parking lot and do not enter signs on the roads away from the main road between the parking lot and the road out of town would prevent nearly all of the accidental violations. Ray Can you put me on your e-mail list for the Cal City Trails/OHV program info? I am unable to attend the meeting, however I will attempt to put something together for you to forward for the meeting in support of the the Cal City Trail Program. Do you have a preferred format? Can PDF also if that is easier. Another thing someone might try is contact American Honda Public Relations concerning public education. They might consider some kind of help because of the stake they have in the OHV market. I had a discussion with a guy at American Honda in regards to an article I read about Honda's support of a OHV safety program similar to your D.I.R.T. program. They maybe able give support in this area also. Please keep in mind tha American Honda's budget has been slashed quite a bit but it might open a door for the future considering Cal City's interest in supporting the OHV community. Contact: David Edwards M/C Division M/C Safety and Environment (310)783-3963 Eric Brandmeyer Sr. Engine Builder Honda Performance Development, Inc. 25145 Anza Drive Santa Clarita, CA 91355 Tel: (661) 702-7729 Fax: (661) 294-7320

This is what Mike Edmiston sent out.   Wayne, can you get the word out to have folks come to the Council meeting 3/3.  Thanks. ED

 

To all,

I have forwarded Ed Waldheim’s email for your reference.

Ed has a very good point about this being Tourism and the only viable new revenue for our city at the current time.  We should help to ensure all our citizens are made aware of the rules and requirements before any detrimental action is taken to close off any off road areas or accesses.  The OHV Trail has proven to be a business friendly program and we should do what we can, within our budget and resources, to maintain it.

 

At a recent EDC business meeting I brought up the fact the city and council members are receiving comments from our citizens about abuses of the trail and riders not staying off our streets.  The Mayor was there and can attest to the reaction of the off roaders present when I reminded everyone that the trial has to be voted back in by the council this June to stay in operation.  The business people did not want to hear that either.  I stated if the current trend of abuses of our neighborhoods is not corrected by the off road community they will all suffer the results.  I also stated if they had any influence on the local and out of town off roaders they should work to correct the issues before June.

Thank you,