CITY COUNCIL MEETING
INCLUDING THE ANTIOCH CITY COUNCIL
ACTING AS HOUSING SUCCESSOR
TO THE ANTIOCH DEVELOPMENT AGENCY
ANTIOCH PUBLIC FINANCE AUTHORITY
Regular Meeting January 14, 2025
7:00 P.M. Council Chambers
5:00 P.M. - CLOSED SESSION
Mayor Bernal called the Closed Session to order at 5:00 P.M., and Acting City Clerk Manuel called the roll.
Present: Council Members District 3 Freitas, Mayor Pro Tem (District 2) Rocha and Mayor Bernal
Absent: Council Members District 1 Torres-Walker and District 4 Wilson
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Bernal led the Pledge of Allegiance.
1. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – ANTICIPATED LITIGATION , Significant exposure to litigation pursuant to California Government Code section 54956.9(d)(2):
One Case.
2. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS – This Closed Session with the City’s Labor Negotiators is authorized by California Government Code section 54957.6; City designated representatives: Human Resources Director Ana Cortez and Parks and Recreation Director Brad Helfenberger; Employee organi zation: Antioch Public Works Employees Association (APWEA) Bargaining Unit.
3. PUBLIC EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE EVALUATION: CITY MANAGER . This closed session is authorized pursuant to California Government Code section 54957(b)(1).
4. PUBLIC EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE EVALUATION: CITY ATTORNEY . This closed session is authorized pursuant to California Government Code section 54957(b)(1).
5. PUBLIC EMPLOYMENT – TITLE: CHIEF OF POLICE, ANTIOCH POLICE DEPARTMENT. This closed session is authorized pursuant to California Government Code section 54957(b)(1).
PUBLIC COMMENTS – None
ADJOURN TO CLOSED SESSION
Mayor Bernal adjourned to Closed Session at 5:03 P.M.
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7:00 P.M. REGULAR MEETING
Mayor Bernal called the meeting to order at 7:04 P.M., and City Clerk Rhodes called the roll.
Present: Council/Agency Members, District 3 Freitas, Mayor Pro Tem (District 2) Rocha and Mayor Bernal
Absent: Council/Agency Members District 1 Torres-Walker and District 4 Wilson
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Bernal led the Pledge of Allegiance.
CITY ATTORNEY TO REPORT OUT ON CLOSED SESSION
City Attorney Smith reported the City Council had been in Closed Session on December 19, 2024, and gave the following report: ANTICIPATED LITIGATION , Council authorized City Manager and Interim Police Chief to execute a memorandum of agreement with the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) for a maximum term of 5 -years in a form approved by the City Attorney, by a 5/0 vote.
City Attorney Smith reported the City Council had been in Closed Session on January 14, 2025 and gave the following report: #1 CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – ANTICIPATED LITIGATION, no reportable action, #2 CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS, direction given to Director of Human Resources , #3 PUBLIC EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE EVALUATION: CITY MANAGER , direction given to City Manager , #4 PUBLIC EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE EVALUATION: CITY ATTORNEY, no reportable action ; and, #5 PUBLIC EMPLOYMENT – TITLE: CHIEF OF POLICE, ANTIOCH POLICE DEPARTMENT , no reportable action.
Mayor Bernal reported the City Council had been in Closed Session on January 14, 2025, and gave the following report: #4 PUBLIC EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE EVALUATION: CITY ATTORNEY, direction given to staff.
1. PROCLAMATIONS
• Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, January 20, 2025 • In Honor of Ray Yaker, Antioch Lifetime Veteran of the Year 2024-2025 • In Honor of Dave Despain, Antioch Veteran of the Year 2024-2025
On motion by Councilmember Freitas, seconded by Councilmember Rocha the City Council members present unanimously approved the Proclamations.
Representatives from the Antioch Council of Teens (ACT) accepted the Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day proclamation and thanked the City Council for the recognition.
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J.R. Wilson introduced Mr. Yaker who accepted the In Honor of Ray Yaker, Antioch Lifetime Veteran of the Year 2024-2025 proclamation and thanked the City Council for the recognition.
J.R. Wilson introduced Mr. Despain who accepted the In Honor of Dave Despain, Antioch Veteran of the Year 2024-2025 proclamation and thanked the City Council for the recognition.
2. ANNOUNCEMENTS OF CIVIC AND COMMUNITY EVENTS
Director of Parks and Recreation Helfenberger announced the following civic and community event.
➢ Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service – 9:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. on January 20, 2025
3. ANNOUNCEMENTS OF BOARD AND COMMISSION OPENINGS
City Clerk Rhodes announced the following Board and Commission openings.
➢ Planning Commission
➢ Board of Administrative Appeals
➢ Sales Tax Citizens’ Oversight Committee
For more information and to apply, visit the City’s website or City Hall.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Evah Wilson, Antioch Charter Academy II, stated she hoped to see positive change with the newly elected City Council.
Gabrrielle Gatts, Antioch Charter Academy II, encouraged the City to improve public safety by addressing blighted properties in Antioch.
Kathy Cabrera , K911 Animal Rescue and Debbie Bla isure, Rivertown Treasurer Chest , announced the Mix and Mingle Event would be held from 5:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M. on January 25, 2025, at 306 G Street Antioch.
Kathryn Wade discussed incidents involving her son and the Antioch Police Department (APD).
She expressed concern regarding the current leadership in Antioch.
Rachel Mendoza, Antioch resident, speaking on behalf of Casa Del Rio Senior Apartments, discussed safety concerns in their neighborhood and requested the City assist them in addressing these issues.
Robin Agopian , Antioch resident, recognized the City Council for their dedication to public service and announced her retirement from the Antioch Unified School District ( AUSD). She
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thanked the C ity for the landscaping improvements along Lone Tree Way. She suggested Council prioritize traffic safety in school zones and foster a relationship between the City Council and the School District.
Cassandra Quinto Collins congratulated the newly elected City Council and introduced herself.
She encouraged Council to prioritize public safety for all community members.
Carolyn Simmons discussed allegations against the APD and encouraged elected officials to make positive changes in the City.
Devin Williams, Vice Chairperson of the Antioch Police Oversight Commission (APOC), recognized Interim Police Chief Addington for his public service and stated he looked forward to working with Acting Chief Vigil. He acknowledged community members’ public comments and the APOC for assisting the City in rewriting APD policies. He thanked the new leadership in Antioch.
Frank Sterling, Antioch resident, thanked Interim Police Chief Addington and recognized Acting Chief Vigil. He discussed his interaction s with APD. He encouraged new ly elected officials to make positive changes in the City. He discussed actions occurring in Gaza.
Leslie May acknowledged City Manager Scott ’s professionalism. She thanked Interim Police Chief Addington and Acting Chief Vigil.
Velma Wilson , Vice President of the Antioch Schools Education Foundation announced the following civic and community events.
➢ Teacher of the Year Reception on May 1, 2025, at the Antioch Historical Society ➢ East Contra Costa County NAACP Reverand Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Prayer Breakfast at 8:00 A.M. on January 20, 2025, at Martin Luther King Jr. Junior High, Pittsburg ➢ 17th Annual MLK Celebration at 1:00 P.M. on January 20, 2025.
Patricia Granados suggested the City declare Antioch a Sanctuary City. She spoke against violence and racism, and in support of holding those responsible accountable.
Lynette Hart , Antioch resident, congratulated everyone involved in negotiating a settlement agreement with the DOJ.
Nichole Gardner, Homeless Advocate, expressed concern regarding the procedures used by the APD during recent encampment sweeps. She questioned the involvement of former staff members in the APD investigation. She expressed concern regarding negative comments made on social media.
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Melissa Case congratulated everyone responsible for negotiating a settlement agreement with the DOJ and spoke in s upport of City Manager Scott. She discussed a list of items she would like Council to prioritize.
Mary Lutz encouraged the City to improve services for the houseless. She congratulated those involved in negotiating a settlement agreement with the DOJ. She encouraged the newly elected officials to be impartial.
Destinee Bernstine reported that she had experienced a water leak in her home which had caused her water bill to increase to a level that was unaffordable and requested assistance from the City.
Nicole Arrington gave a history of racist activities in East County. She expressed concern regarding APD’s interactions with the unhoused.
Tiki Flow, Reimagine Antioch, congratulated the newly elected City Council. She recognized those involved in negotiating a settlement agreement with the DOJ and spoke in support of holding APD accountable. She expressed concern regarding negative comments posted on social media.
Erika Raulston, Antioch resident, requested the City recognize Kwanzaa. She commented that MLK Day was a day of peace for the community. She expressed concern regarding negative comments posted on social media. She recognized City Manager Scott’s professionalism.
An unidentified speaker announced grant opportunities available for the City and discussed the need for affordable housing in Antioch.
CITY COUNCIL COMMITTEE REPORTS/COMMUNICATIONS – None
MAYOR’S COMMENTS
Mayor Bernal stated he understood that there was a need for healing in the community and that negative comments on social media needed to cease. He committed to bringing the community together and hold ing discussions on challenges facing the City. He reported the APD was dedicated to raising up a police department that would be the best in the Country. He noted the future of the City began with strong leadership who were committed to, and represented the entire community. He encouraged the community to participate in budget study sessions and the strategic plan process.
4. PRESENTATIONS
• Antioch Police Department Police Chief Recruitment Presentation
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City Manager Scott reviewed the Recruitment RFQ/RFP process and introduced Joe Gorton, Lead Recruiter, who gave a PowerPoint presentation of the Police Chief Recruitment process.
The Council outlined a comprehensive list of qualities and experiences that are essential for effective leadership in Antioch. These attributes emphasize d transparency, community engagement, diversity, and a strong commitment to public service.
Mr. Gorton discussed the importance of receiving stakeholder feedback and the process moving forward. He noted contact information was on the presentation and available on the City’s website.
City Manager Scott announced staff would be providing periodic updates and Interim Police Chief Addington would be assisting.
Commissioners Williams, May, Lacey-Oha and Chairperson Taylor, representing the APOC, Tiki Flow, Ashly Mahan, Leslie May, Nicole Arrington and Melissa Case provided feedback to the consultant and Council on the desired qualifications and the process for selection of a Police Chief.
• What a Year It’s Been – Celebrating Our Year 2024” Parks and Recreation PowerPoint and Video Presentation
Due to technical difficulties, Mayor Bernal announced this item would be placed on the next City Council agenda.
5. CONSENT CALENDAR for City /City Council Members acting as Housing Successor to the Antioch Development Agency
A. APPROVAL OF COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES FOR NOVEMBER 26, 2024
B. APPROVAL OF COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES FOR DECEMBER 10, 2024
C. APPROVAL OF SPECIAL MEETING/CLOSED SESSION MINUTES FOR DECEMBER 11, 2024
D. APPROVAL OF SPECIAL MEETING/CLOSED SESSION MINUTES FOR DECEMBER 19, 2024
E. APPROVAL OF COUNCIL WARRANTS
F. APPROVAL OF HOUSING SUCCESSOR WARRANTS
G. RESOLUTION NO. 2025/01 ACCEPTANCE OF WORK AND NOTICE OF
COMPLETION FOR THE HILLCREST AND DONLON BOOSTER PUMPING STATION IMPROVEMENTS (P.W. 477-BP2)
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H. RESOLUTION NO. 2025/0 2 APPROVAL OF HEIDORN RANCH ROAD OFFSITE IMPROVEMENTS, SUBDIVISION 9567 (TRI POINTE HOMES HOLDINGS) (P.W. 697 - 4)
I. RESOLUTION NO. 2025/0 3 APPROVING THE C.3 BASIN AND TRAILS SOUTH OF
SAND CREEK ROAD, HEIDORN RANCH ROAD AND SAND CREEK ROAD
INTERSECTION AND SAND CREEK ROAD OFFSITE IMPROVEMENTS,
SUBDIVISION 9569 (TRI POINTE HOMES HOLDINGS) (P.W. 697-6)
J. RESOLUTION NO. 2025/0 4 TO ACCEPT A QUITCLAIM DEED TO THE CITY OF ANTIOCH CONVEYING LOT “9” FOR THE PROMENADE LARGE LOT FINAL MAP, VINEYARDS AT SAND CREEK (TRACT #9390) AND PARCEL “D” FOR THE PROMENADE, PHASE 4, VINEYARDS AT SAND CREEK SUBDIVISION (TRACT #9567)
K. RESOLUTION NO. 2025/0 5 PROGRAM SUPPLEMENT AGREEMENT FOR THE TRAFFIC SIGNAL SYSTEM UPGRADES AT VARIOUS LOCATIONS PROJECT (P.W. 636-11)
L. RESOLUTION NO. 2025/0 6 AWARD OF A CONSULTANT SERVICES AGREEMENT TO CAROLLO ENGINEERS, INC. FOR THE EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN (ERP) AND RISK RESILIENCE ASSESSMENT (RRA) IN THE AMOUNT OF $135,000 (P.W. 340-16)
On motion by Councilmember Rocha, seconded by Councilmember Freitas, the City Council members present unanimously approved the Council Consent Calendar with the exception of Item A, which was removed for further discussion.
Item A – City Manager Scott acknowledged that Council was not present for the November 26, 2024 City Council meeting; however, they could approve the minutes as to form.
On motion by Councilmember Freitas, seconded by Councilmember Rocha the City Council members present unanimously approved Item A.
Mayor Bernal announced he had a request to suspend the rules and move item #10 as the next order of business.
ON MOTION BY COUNCILMEMBER FREITAS, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER ROCHA
THE CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT UNANIMOUSLY SUSPENDED THE RULES AND
MOVED COUNCIL REGULAR/ANTIOCH PUBLIC FINANCING AUTHORITY AGENDA ITEM #10 AS THE NEXT ORDER OF BUSINESS.
COUNCIL REGULAR/ANTIOCH PUBLIC FINANCING AUTHORITY AGENDA
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10. RESOLUTION APPROVING THE CONSULTING SERVICES AGREEMENT BETWEEN
THE CITY OF ANTIOCH AND WBA CONSULTING & INVESTIGATIVE SERVICES IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $225,000, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER OR
DESIGNEE TO EXECUTE THE CONSULTANT SERVICES AGREEMENT AND MAKE
THE NECESSARY BUDGET ADJUSTMENT
City Manager Scott presented the staff report dated January 14, 2025 recommending the City Council adopt a resolution to: 1) Approve the Consulting Services Agreement between the City of Antioch and WBA Consulting & Investigative Services in an Amount Not to Exceed $225,000 for a term ending June 30, 2025, with a one -time extension for an additional six (6) months for the same terms; 2) Authorize the City Manager or designee to execute the Consulting Services Agreement between the City of Antioch and WBA Consulting & Investigative Services in a form approved by the City Manager and City Attorney; and 3) Authorize the City Manager to make the necessary fiscal year 2025 budget adjustment.
RESOLUTION NO. 2025/07
On motion by Councilmember Rocha, seconded by Councilmember Freitas the City Council members present unanimously adopted a resolution to: 1) Approve the Consulting Services Agreement between the City of Antioch and WBA Consulting & Investigative Services in an Amount Not to Exceed $225,000 for a term ending June 30, 2025, with a one-time extension for an additional six (6) months for the same terms; 2) Authorize the City Manager or designee to execute the Consulting Services Agreement between the City of An tioch and WBA Consulting & Investigative Services in a form approved by the City Manager and City Attorney; and 3) Authorize the City Manager to make the necessary fiscal year 2025 budget adjustment.
PUBLIC HEARING
6. PROPOSED UPDATE TO THE MASTER FEE SCHEDULE FOR CARRY CONCEALED
WEAPON (CCW) LICENSES
City Manager Scott introduced Public Hearing Agenda Item #6.
Captain Bittner recognized the Veterans who received Proclamations this evening . He presented the staff report dated January 14, 2025, recommending the City Council adopt a resolution approving an amendment to the Master Fee schedule for Carry Concealed Weapon (CCW) licenses.
Mayor Bernal opened the public hearing.
DeNae Munoz, Empowered 2A/Gun Owners of America, discussed her right to protect herself and expressed concern regarding the delay in processing CCW licenses.
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Greg Farina, Chairman for Contra Costa County for the California Rifle and Pistol Association, spoke in support of the resolution and offered to assist the City in advancing this item. He recommended the City consider low-income residents.
Public comments submitted in writing were entered into the record from the following individuals:
Konstadinos T. Moros, Michel & Associations, P.C., Bill Goldsby and William Buhlman, Antioch resident.
Mayor Bernal closed the public hearing.
In response to Council, Captain Bittner stated to his knowledge there were n o pending applications and with the new procedures in place he was confident license process time would be approximately 90-days. He added that they would be assessing costs and processing time to determine if estimates were accurate and would bring this item back if any adjustments were necessary.
Councilmember Freitas thanked Captain Bittner for the comprehensive staff report.
RESOLUTION NO. 2025/08
On motion by Councilmember Rocha , seconded by Councilmember Freitas the City Council members present unanimously adopted a resolution approving an amendment to the Master Fee schedule for Carry Concealed Weapon (CCW) licenses.
COUNCIL REGULAR/ANTIOCH PUBLIC FINANCING AUTHORITY AGENDA - Continued
7. RECEIVE REPORT ON UTILITY REVENUE REQUIREMENTS AND ADOPT
RESOLUTION SETTING PUBLIC HEARING FOR WATER CHARGE INCREASES FOR MARCH 11, 2025, AND AUTHORIZING DISTRIBUTION OF PROPOSITION 218 NOTICES (P.W. 362-9)
City Manager Scott introduced Agenda Item #7.
Acting Director of Public Works/City Engineer Buenting introduced Tom Pavletic who presented the staff report dated January 10, 2025, recommending the City Council adopt a resolution setting a Public Hearing on proposed Water Service Charge adjustments and authorize the distribution of Proposition 218 notices addressing proposed adjustments and notifying owners of the public hearing on this issue.
Following discussion, Councilmember Freitas reviewed the risks involved in the City getting close to the 1.28 coverage ratio and recommended an emergency plan be established in the event that the City were to get near that number. He also suggested Council evaluate all rate increases considered on an annual basis and emphasized the importance of applying policy throughout the City to reduce the impacts to consumers.
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Acting Director of Public Works/City Engineer Buenting explained that they were looking at deferring projects or decreasing expenditures for the remainder of this fiscal year to address the coverage ratio.
A motion was made by Councilmember Freitas to adopt a resolution setting a Public Hearing on proposed Water Service Charge adjustments and authorize the distribution of Proposition 218 notices addressing proposed adjustments and notifying owners of the public hearing on this issue.
Mayor Bernal acknowledged that there were public comments on this item.
Melissa Case spoke in opposition to rate increases and recognized Councilmember Freitas’s knowledge on the subject matter.
Lori Ogorchock discussed the previous Council’s consideration of this item and the importance of approving the resolution this evening. She questioned if Council not passing this item in November had impacted the City. She explained why the previous Council had not increased rates during COVID.
Councilmember Rocha seconded the motion to adopt the resolution.
An unidentified speaker discussed the importance of being fiscally responsible and having incremental rate increases for City services.
An unidentified speaker requested Council acknowledge public comments prior to their discussion and a motion. He encouraged incremental increases in the future to lessen the burden on rate payers. He also suggested exploring subsidy opportunities for seniors and low- income residents.
Councilmember Rocha requested Acting Director of Public Works/City Engineer Buenting investigate alternatives for seniors and those with fixed incomes.
Councilmember Freitas cautioned that most water /sewer districts d id not have subsidies because it was a legal issue related to essentially creating a tax on all other rate payers. He stated he supported exploring all options particularly as it related to seniors and others sensitive groups.
Councilmember Rocha acknowledged Councilmember Freitas’ expertise on this subject matter.
He stated he understood the City forgoing increases during COVID; however, the rates should have been increased afterward.
In response to Mayor Bernal, Acting Director of Public Works/City Engineer Buenting confirmed that General Fund money was not used to subsidize the water fund.
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Councilmember Freitas requested clearer communication and transparency regarding policy questions within staff reports.
City Manager Scott commented that the fiscal impact was expanded after Council considered this item in November. She thanked Council for the discussion this evening.
Mayor Bernal requested a detailed analysis of the potential consequences of not approving the proposed increases through the Proposition 218 process.
RESOLUTION NO. 2025/09
A vote taken on the previous motion to adopt a resolution setting a Public Hearing on proposed Water Service Charge adjustments and authorize the distribution of Proposition 218 notices addressing proposed adjustments and notifying owners of the public hearing on this issue , passed unanimously.
City Clerk Rhodes announced that pursuant to Resolution 2023/107 the City of Antioch meetings of the City Council shall adjourn no later than 11:00 P.M. unless a majority of the City Council votes in favor of extending the meeting.
On motion by Councilmember Freitas, seconded by Councilmember Rocha the City Council members present extended the Council meeting to 12:00 A.M.
8. ANTIOCH PUBLIC FINANCING AUTHORITY - BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2024
City Manager Scott introduced Agenda Item #8.
Finance Director Merchant presented the staff report dated January 14, 2025, recommending the Board of the Antioch Public Financing Authority receive and file the Antioch Public Financing Authority - Basic Financial Statements and Independent Auditor's Report for the Year Ended June 30, 2024.
Councilmember Freitas requested staff provide an update on the Golf Course during Budget Study Sessions.
On motion by Councilmember Freitas, seconded by Councilmember Rocha the City Council members present unanimously the Board of the Antioch Public Financing Authority received and filed the Antioch Public Financing Authority - Basic Financial Statements and Independent Auditor's Report for the Year Ended June 30, 2024.
9. CITY OF ANTIOCH ANNUAL COMPREHENSIVE FINANCIAL REPORT FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2024
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City Manager Scott introduced Agenda Item #9.
Finance Director Merchant presented the staff report dated January 14, 2025, recommending the City Council receive and file the City of Antioch Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2024, inclusive of the City of Antioch Single Audit Reports for the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2024.
In response to Councilmember Freitas, Finance Director Merchant provided a comprehensive overview of the city's financial situation and the challenges ahead. She emphasized the importance of clear priorities and strategic use of funds, especially with the deadlines for the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds approaching. She commented that the city seemed to be in a stable position for now, but careful planning and prioritization would be crucial to navigate potential budget deficits and ensure ongoing support for important programs.
Councilmember Freitas recommended that Budget Study Sessions include a comprehensive explanation of the budget's condition, projections, and potential impacts on residents and programming.
Councilmember Rocha voiced concerns about the future availability of funding for community services once the ARPA funding ended. He recommended City Manager Scott actively seek partnership opportunities with the County and explore other potential avenues for funding unhoused and public safety services.
Mayor Bernal recommended that Budget Study Sessions identify annual costs for pension liabilities.
Melissa Case questioned if the CALPERS lawsuits were included in the liabilities.
On motion by Councilmember Freitas, seconded by Councilmember Rocha the City Council members present unanimously received and filed the City of Antioch Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2024, inclusive of the City of Antioch Single Audit Reports for the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2024.
11. EMERGENCY STAFFING FOR THE FINANCE DEPARTMENT, HUMAN RESOURCES
DEPARTMENT, OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER, OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK
AND CONVERSION OF COMPUTER TECHNICIAN IN INFORMATION SERVICES
City Manager Scott requested that this item be tabled to the next Council meeting.
On motion by Councilmember Rocha, seconded by Councilmember Freitas the City Council members present unanimously tabled Agenda Item #11 to the next meeting.
PUBLIC COMMENT - None
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STAFF COMMUNICATIONS
City Manager Scott expressed appreciation for the contributions and professionalism of several city officials. She provided an update on budget study sessions, indicating they would occur on the third Tuesday of each month until July 1, 2025, with the next session scheduled for January 27, 2025. She announced that the city would be partnering with Townsend Public Affairs to manage grant initiatives, with activities set to commence in the coming weeks. Additionally, a public information officer would be joining the team in February to develop a compreh ensive communication and social media strategy. She highlighted plans for a strategic planning and goal-setting process, facilitated by a consulting firm during retreats for both the Council and staff.
She also mentioned her participation, alongside Director of Public Safety and Community Resources Johnson, in the Point In Time count for Antioch. Lastly, she a cknowledged the collaboration with Director Roth and Christy Saxton from H3 at the County for their partnership with the city to manage the $7 million emergency resolution grant funds.
COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS AND FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
Councilmember Freitas reported on his attendance at the T ri Delta Transit meeting with Councilmember Rocha.
Councilmember Rocha reported on his attendance at Tri Delta Transit and Antioch Chamber of Commerce meetings.
Councilmember Freitas encouraged staff to foster the City’s relationship s regionally through Delta 6.
Mayor Bernal requested an invitation to participate in the P oint in Time Count. He announced he would be attending the Delta 6 meeting on January 30, 2025. He reported Council would be holding a joint City Council/AUSD meeting in February. He reported on his a ttendance at the Mayor’s Conference with Councilmember Wilson.
ADJOURNMENT
On motion by Councilmember Rocha, seconded by Councilmember Freitas the City Council members present unanimously adjourned the meeting at 11:27 P.M.
Respectfully submitted:
Kitty Eiden
KITTY EIDEN, Minutes Clerk