CITY COUNCIL MEETING
INCLUDING THE ANTIOCH CITY COUNCIL
ACTING AS HOUSING SUCCESSOR
TO THE ANTIOCH DEVELOPMENT AGENCY
Regular Meeting February 25, 2025
7:00 P.M. Council Chambers
6:30 P.M. - CLOSED SESSION
Mayor Bernal called the Closed Session to order at 6:30 P.M., and City Clerk Rhodes called the roll.
Present: Council Members District 1 Torres -Walker, District 3 Freitas, Mayor Pro Tem (District 2) Rocha and Mayor Bernal
Absent: Council Member District 4 Wilson
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Bernal led the Pledge of Allegiance.
1. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – ANTICIPATED LITIGATION – pursuant to California Government Code section 54956.9(d)(2): 1 potential case.
PUBLIC COMMENTS – None
ADJOURN TO CLOSED SESSION
Mayor Bernal adjourned to Closed Session at 6:32 P.M.
7:00 P.M. REGULAR MEETING
Mayor Bernal called the meeting to order at 7:00 P.M., and City Clerk Rhodes called the roll.
Present: Council/Agency Members District 1 Torres -Walker, District 3 Freitas, Mayor Pro Tem (District 2) Rocha and Mayor Bernal
Absent: Council/Agency Member District 4 Wilson
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Bernal led the Pledge of Allegiance.
CITY ATTORNEY TO REPORT OUT ON CLOSED SESSION
Assistant City Attorney Kundinger reported the City Council had been in Closed Session and gave the following report: #1 CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – ANTICIPATED LITIGATION, City Council voted to approve the settlement agreement to Ashley Ewart in the amount of $100,000 by a 4/0 vote.
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PUBLIC COMMENTS
City Clerk Rhodes announced the Speaker Rules for the Council meeting.
Kathryn Reza, Raley’s Shopping Center, discussed increasing crime in the area. She reiterated a request for improving public safety and suggested the City revisit the zoning designation to allow for additional uses.
Mayra advocated for a recreation center for youth.
Kathryn Wade raised concerns about elected officials contacting members of the Antioch Police Oversight Commission (APOC) to discuss community members.
Leslie May expressed concern about comments made about her during an APOC meeting and commented that she felt it was inappropriate for an elected official to contact Commissioners to discuss community members.
Erika Raulston discussed and defined racism.
Mark Jordan offered suggestions for streamlining the City’s response to public record requests.
Ricka Davis-Sheard, SHARE Community, requested the City Council take public comment in the order submitted. She provided an overview of the services they offered to the unhoused.
Devin Williams encouraged local government to protect their citizens and immigrants. He announced a National Boycott against businesses that do not support diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) on February 28, 2025 . He encouraged the City to issue an official statement affirming its commitment to these vulnerable groups and encouraged citizens to advocate for DEI initiatives at the national level through public demonstrations.
Andrew Becker requested the City prioritize the Project H omekey Program and offered his support. Speaking to a previous public comment, he stated that it was a business owner’s responsibility to provide security on their properties . He encouraged Code Enforcement to address violations associated with commercial properties.
1. INTRODUCTION OF NEW CITY EMPLOYEES, PROMOTIONS AND RETIREMENTS
City Manager Scott introduced Acting Chief Vigil who introduced:
➢ Ashley Martinez, Administrative Analyst I
➢ Laurissa Lampi, Crime Analyst
➢ Ma’Janae Brown, Police Dispatcher
➢ Paige Garner, Police Dispatcher
➢ Brandon Michaud, Police Officer
➢ David Taylor, Police Officer
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➢ Trayjen Jones, Police Officer
➢ Canaan Lutu Moala, Police Officer
City Manager Scott introduced Acting Public Works Director/City Engineer Buenting who introduced:
➢ Austin Antoniazzi, General Laborer
➢ Johnathon Webb, Water Treatment Instrument Technician ➢ Chad Truesdell, Lead Collections Systems Worker
➢ Rene Ayala, Equipment Mechanic I
➢ Andrew Aranda, Equipment Mechanic I
➢ Vainderpal Gill, Laboratory Assistant I
City Manager Scott introduced Assistant City Manager /Acting Director of Community Development Reed who introduced:
➢ Cesar Serafin, Building Inspector
Mayor Bernal and City Manager Scott welcomed the new employees.
ANNOUNCEMENTS OF CIVIC AND COMMUNITY EVENTS
Director of Parks and Recreation Helfenberger announced applications for student delegates and chaperones for the Antioch Chichibu Sister City Organization were available on the City’s website.
Scarlette McKinsey, Antioch Council of Teens (ACT), announced they meet from 4:00 P.M. – 6:00 P.M. on the second and fourth Wednesday s of the month at the Antioch Water Park. She also announced Teen Movie Night would take place on March 26, 2025. at Maya Cinemas. She reported on her attendance at the Youth in Government Conference.
Debbie Blaisure and Janet, Downtown Antioch Association, invited Antioch Business Owners to attend their meeting at 5:30 P.M. on February 26, 2025, at La Plazuela.
Gavin Payton , NAACP, thanked everyone who supported the East County NAACP Youth Council’s Black History Program. He discussed their advocacy efforts.
CITY COUNCIL COMMITTEE REPORTS/COMMUNICATIONS
Councilmember Torres -Walker announced a Community Development Block Grant ( CDBG) meeting would be held on February 27, 2025, and the City/School and Cannabis Standing Committees would be meeting soon. She acknowledged Black History Month , community members facing challenges and individuals in public service.
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Councilmember Rocha reported on his attendance at the Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA) meeting. He expressed concern for community members who were fearful of ICE and immigration. He announced a grassroots immigrant opportunity event would be taking place at a local church. He commended Acting Police Chief Vigil and the City for their outreach efforts to undocumented residents.
Mayor Bernal reported on his attendance at the CCTA meeting.
MAYOR’S COMMENTS
Mayor Bernal reported on public meetings to select a new Police Chief and urged community participation in upcoming sessions. He thanked Acting Police Chief Vigil for overseeing the Antioch Police Department during the interim period and clarified that the City Manager would make the final decision on the new Chief. Additionally, he announced a Budget Study Session scheduled for 6:00 P.M. on March 4, 2025, which would include the budgets for the Antioch Police Department and Public Safety and Community Resources Department. He provided an update on the City Council's Team Building Session.
Nichole Gardner, Homeless Advocate, stated she appreciated Councilmember Torres-Walker’s support of the community.
2. ANNOUNCEMENTS OF BOARD AND COMMISSION OPENINGS
City Clerk Rhodes announced the following Board and Commission openings.
➢ Parks and Recreation Commission
➢ Board of Administrative Appeals
For more information and to apply, visit the City’s website.
Public comment submitted in writing was entered into the record from the following individual:
Dani Lanis, Advocacy Manager.
2. CONSENT CALENDAR for City /City Council Members acting as Housing Successor to the Antioch Development Agency
A. APPROVAL OF COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES FOR JANUARY 28, 2025
B. APPROVAL OF COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES FOR FEBRUARY 11, 2025
C. APPROVAL OF COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING/CLOSED SESSION MINUTES FOR FEBRUARY 19, 2025
D. APPROVAL OF COUNCIL WARRANTS
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E. APPROVAL OF HOUSING SUCCESSOR WARRANTS
F. RESOLUTION NO. 2025/27 SOLE SOURCE PURCHASING AGREEMENT WITH
ALTURA COMMUNICATIONS SOLUTIONS FOR A PHONE SYSTEM UPGRADE FOR AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $86,195.57
G. RESOLUTION NO. 2025/2 8 SOLE SOURCE MAINTENANCE SERVICES
AGREEMENT WITH ALTURA COMMUNICATIONS SOLUTIONS FOR ANNUAL
PHONE SYSTEM SUBSCRIPTION LICENSING AND SUPPORT FOR AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $95,258
H. RESOLUTION NO. 2025/2 9 NEW CLASS SPECIFICATION, ASSIGNING SALARY
RANGES, ASSIGNING THE CLASSIFICATIONS TO THE CONFIDENTIAL
BARGAINING UNIT
I. RESOLUTION NO. 2025/ 30 AND RESOLUTION NO. 2025/31 TO SUMMARILY
VACATE SURPLUS PORTIONS OF WATER LINE EASEMENT AND AUTHORIZE THE
CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE ANY ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTS TO QUITCLAIM TO
THE UNDERLYING FEE OWNER AND RESOLUTION TO AUTHORIZE THE CITY
MANAGER OR DESIGNEE TO ACCEPT ADDITIONAL WATER LIN E EASEMENTS FOR THE CHICK-FIL-A PROJECT AT 5705 LONE TREE WAY (P.W. 723)
J. RESOLUTION NO. 2025/32 ACCEPTANCE OF COMPLETED IMPROVEMENTS AND RELEASE OF BONDS FOR DEER VALLEY ESTATES SUBDIVISION 9518 (P.W. 681- 2)
K. RESOLUTION NO. 2025/ 33 CONSIDERATION OF A COOPERATIVE AGREEMENT
BETWEEN THE CITY OF ANTIOCH AND THE CONTRA COSTA TRANSPORTATION
AUTHORITY FOR THE COUNTYWIDE SMART SIGNALS PROJECT FUNDED IN PART BY A ONE BAY AREA CYCLE 3 (OBAG 3) GRANT (P.W. 636-10)
L. RESOLUTION NO. 2025/34 AGREEMENT WITH TK ELEVATOR CORPORATION FOR ELEVATOR MODERNIZATION AT 800 WEST SECOND STREET IN THE AMOUNT OF $168,648
M. RESOLUTION NO. 2025/35 FIRST AMENDMENT TO THE CONSULTING SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH INDIGO HAMMOND+PLAYLE ARCHITECTS, LLP FOR
CITYWIDE SPACE PLANNING AND ARCHITECTURAL CONSULTATION SERVICES (P.W. 700-4)
On motion by Councilmember Freitas, seconded by Councilmember Rocha, the City Council unanimously approved the Council Consent Calendar with the exception of Items A, D, K and L, which were removed for further discussion.
Item A – City Manager Scott introduced Consent Calendar Item A.
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On motion by Councilmember Freitas, seconded by Councilmember Torres -Walker the City Council members present unanimously approved the amended Jan. 28, 2025, Meeting Minutes (on page 5, 11th paragraph) to read:
“Councilmember Freitas stated he believed there was Council consensus to move forward with the project but without waivers or exemptions with the various conditions. He noted that action would not preclude the applicant coming back to discuss her requests and if it came back, it would be staff’s responsibility to explain why they did not support any exceptions.”
Item D – Councilmember Freitas requested that staff provide the Council with a detailed explanation of legal costs from Fiscal Year 2023 up to 2025 including the amounts for each firm for each year, along with the total collective amount.
On motion by Councilmember Freitas, seconded by Councilmember Torres -Walker the City Council members present unanimously approved Item D.
Item K – City Manager Scott introduced Consent Calendar Item K.
In response to Councilmember Freitas, Acting Director of Public Works/City Engineer Buenting offered to provide more detailed staff reports. He clarified that the money was unencumbered and available for this project.
City Manager Scott noted that the request was for $334,175 from the Gas Tax Funds, which currently had a total of $1.2 million and this action would leave a remaining balance of $890,591.
Councilmember Rocha reported that they discussed the program at the CCTA meeting, and by the City's participation, they would be on track to receive $2.9 million for this project.
In response to Mayor Bernal, Acting Director of Public Works/City Engineer Buenting confirmed that funding this program would not impact previous projects.
On motion by Councilmember Rocha, seconded by Councilmember Torres -Walker the City Council unanimously adopted the resolution 1) Approving the Cooperative Agreement between the City of Antioch and the Contra Costa Transportation Authority for the Countywide Smart Signals Project.
On motion by Councilmember Rocha, seconded by Councilmember Torres -Walker the City Council unanimously adopted the resolution 2) Approving an amendment to the Fiscal Year 2024/25 Operating Budget to increase the funding for the Countywide Smart Signals Project by $334,175 from Gas Tax Funds 3) Authorizing the expenditure of up to $334,175 of Gas Tax funds to pay an advancement to the Contra Costa Transportation Authority for estimated costs for the design and installation of upgraded equipment located withi n the City’s right-of-way and cost of construction for the Countywide Smart Signals Project, which is required to receive a $2,914,034 One Bay Area Cycle 3 (OBAG3) Grant; and 4) Authorizing the City Manager of designed to execute the agreement in a forum approved by the City Attorney.
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Item L – Councilmember Freitas expressed concerns about placing the Human Resources Department and Public Safety and Community Resources Department outside of City Hall. He proposed that the City proactively consider establishing a Civic Center near Prewett Park in collaboration with AUSD, to streamline services and reduce costs. He suggested utilizing the third floor of City Hall for a restaurant or commercial space. He also suggested Council consider their physical requirements during budget study sessions.
In response to Councilmember Torres-Walker, City Manager Scott confirmed that the PG&E building was purchased with ARPA funds and the interest from ARPA funds would fund the retrofitting of the building.
Andrew Becker acknowledged that the City had outgrown City Hall and proposed creating a Civic Space near the APD while also enhancing Prewett Park to improve community access. He pointed out that the adequacy of the PG&E building’s elevator should have been considered prior to purchasing that building. He suggested prioritizing the sale of the City’s surplus properties and conducting a review of the capital improvement needs.
Leslie May stated that she did not support the construction of a new City Hall. She emphasized that downtown was the focal point of Antioch, and that the City should invest in its existing facilities and fund community services.
Councilmember Torres-Walker thanked Councilmember Freitas for the vision . She expressed her support for a broader discussion regarding the budget, city assets, and the development of quality community spaces.
Mayor Bernal proposed that this discussion be revisited with the City’s Capital Improvement Program.
On motion by Councilmember Torres -Walker, seconded by Councilmember Freitas the City Council members present unanimously approved Item L.
COUNCIL REGULAR AGENDA
4. ANTIOCH POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION (APOC) – 2024 ANNUAL REPORT TO
CITY COUNCIL
City Manager Scott presented the staff report dated February 25, 2025, recommending the City Council review and approve the Antioch Police Oversight Commission’s (APOC) Final 2024 Annual Report.
Chairperson Taylor and Commissioner Williams, APOC, gave the Antioch Police Oversight Commission 2024 Annual Report PowerPoint presentation.
Councilmember Torres-Walker thanked the APOC for the presentation.
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City Manager Scott announced that the APD and Public Safety and Community Resources Departments would provide an overview of their programs in the upcoming budget study session. She stated there were challenges in adding policy for crisis response and mental health because of the officer bill of rights, noting those recommendations could be met in different ways.
She further noted steps were being taken to address officer wellness. She highlighted the cost associated with the Felton Institute Program, indicating that further discussions were necessary regarding its financial impact and the implicatio ns of the settlement agreement with the U.S.
Department of Justice (USDOJ).
In response to Councilmember Torres -Walker, Acting Police Chief Vigil mentioned that the Antioch Police Department’s C ommunity Engagement Policy had lapsed due to staffing shortages, but there were plans to revive it in conjunction with the USDOJ settlement agreement.
Councilmember Torres -Walker thanked City Manager Scott for her oversight of the policy recommendations. She suggested the APOC review the recommendations from Bridging the Gap forums.
Chairperson Taylor requested that staff make necessary resources available for the Commission's review.
Councilmember Freitas emphasized the need for the Officer Mental Health and Wellness policy but cautioned that proposed mandatory mental health check -in requirements would require negotiation with unions.
Chairperson Taylor clarified that the report did not mandate mental health checks ; however, it recommended access to such resources. She thanked the Council for their transparency and indicated a history of challenges in obtaining budget-related answers.
Councilmember Freitas requested that the Bridging the Gap report be shared with Council.
Mayor Bernal suggested that Chairperson Taylor email her budget questions to the Council and City Manager Scott, reiterating the Council's goal to simplify the budget's readability. He encouraged the APOC to attend the next budget study sessio n and thanked the APOC for the report.
On motion by Councilmember Rocha , seconded by Councilmember Freitas, the City Council members present unanimously approved the Antioch Police Oversight Commission’s (APOC) Final 2024 Annual Report.
5. COUNCIL DISCUSSION ON A TEMPORARY PAUSE OF ANTIOCH POLICE
OVERSIGHT COMMISSION (APOC) MEETINGS
City Manager Scott and Assistant City Attorney Kundinger presented the staff report dated February 25, 2025, recommending the City Council discuss and provide direction to staff regarding implementing a temporary pause of APOC meetings.
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Assistant City Attorney Kundinger clarified that while the City Council c ould direct the APOC to consider a pause, it d id not have the authority to dictate that action. He added that t he APOC was an independent Commission, with its own mandate to provide accountability for the APD.
City Manager Scott emphasized the importance of the APOC functioning effectively and independently. She advocated for a reset in practices to ensure the Commission was grounded in solid principles going forward.
Councilmember Torres-Walker speaking to the Commission’s appointment process expressed support for a retired law enforcement officer being included, provided they reside d in Antioch and were not receiving compensation from the City. She stressed the need for representation from youth and community members in various districts. She requested the public and Council be informed of all resignations from the Commission.
The interview process for new APOC commissioners was discussed, with City Clerk Rhodes indicating that 11 applicants were being considered.
Mayor Bernal expressed a desire for a consistent process across all City Commissions, suggesting that any proposed changes should ensure clarity and alignment with legal requirements. He called for a review and potential amendment of the ordinance governing the APOC, aiming to ensure it aligned with USDOJ requirements.
City Manager Scott committed to bringing back proposed ordinance changes, a gaps analysis, and an onboarding process.
Discussion ensued about whether the Commission needed to take a formal pause in operations, with Assistant City Attorney Kundinger suggesting that the most straightforward approach would involve the Commission holding a meeting to vote on a pause.
Following discussion, Council agreed that the goal was to enhance the structure and function of the APOC moving forward, ensuring it operate d effectively while remaining accountable to the community and compliant with legal standards. They emphasized the need for clear processes, representation, operational integrity, and alignment with legal frameworks to ensure the APOC could fulfill its oversight role effectively.
Councilmember Freitas motioned to 1) Request Antioch Police Oversight Commission consider the possibility of a temporary pause, and 2) Directed staff to prepare and return with a plan of action to implement a pause of the Antioch Police Oversight Commission for a specified time and bring said plan to a future Council meeting that has been properly noticed to amend Ordinance No. 2212-C-S, that created the Commission.
Erika Raulston , Leslie May , Myrah and Kierstan Johnson Bell stated they did not support a temporary pause of the APOC.
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Melissa Case voiced her concern that a motion was made before public comment could be heard. She urged the City to address the vacancies on the APOC and advocated for providing training for all Commissioners simultaneously. Additionally, she expressed her gratitude to the Commission and recommended that their powers be expanded to establish a procedure for following up on citizen complaints.
Gavin Payton requested the NAACP be part of the future interview process or that a member of the NAACP Youth Council be appointed to the APOC. He reported that the USDOJ report indicated the Mayor did not have the authority to change the APOC. He encouraged the City to address the reason the USDOJ was involved in the process.
APOC Chairperson Taylor and Commissioners Lacey-Oha and Williams, encouraged the City to clarify the ordinance as it related to absences due to health matters.
Commissioner Lacey-Oha addressed false rumors and expressed her support for the APOC Commission having the authority to decide whether a pause should be implemented. She commented that the former Mayor designated her to represent faith -based organizations and appointed Commissioner Williams to represent community-based organizations.
Chairperson emphasized that the APOC stood for unity and clarified that any position she t ook was a reflection of her own decision-making.
Lashonda McDowell discussed the importance of accountability and unity.
Devin Williams proposed that the training should incorporate a discussion regarding the authority the Commission holds as the APOC. He recommended that the APOC should have a more diverse composition.
Ricka Davis Sheard suggested the City advertise open seats to encourage community involvement and ensure that all residents were adequately represented.
Nichole Gardner stated she believed the APOC was very important for the community. She thanked former Interim Police Chief Addington and Acting Police Chief Vigil for responding to her concerns. She encouraged the Council to define their priorities.
Assistant City Attorney Kundinger responding to public comment clarified the City remained in contact with the USDOJ and they were aware of the circumstances of the APOC.
An u nidentified speaker stated she had applied to the APOC; however, she was no longer interested in serving.
Councilmember Rocha seconded the previous motion.
Mayor Bernal reiterated the importance of addressing the requirements set forth in the USDOJ settlement agreement concerning the APOC. He acknowledged the challenges related to
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training, onboarding, and clarity of the ordinance governing its operations. He apologized for the conflict that was created . He explained that the intent behind the motion was to direct staff to prepare and return with a plan that addresse d the six items outlined in the staff report so they could work quickly towards a Commission that would serve the Community, APD and USDOJ well.
Councilmember Torres -Walker addressed public comments acknowledg ing that there were times when Commission seats remain unfilled for an extended period while waiting for community members to apply. She pointed out the necessity for a more robust strategy to engage the community and thanked those who were willing to serve.
A vote taken on the previous motion to 1) Request Antioch Police Oversight Commission consider the possibility of a temporary pause, and 2) Directed staff to prepare and return with a plan of action (USDOJ) to implement a pause of the Antioch Police Oversight Commission for a specified time and bring said plan to a future Council meeting that has been properly noticed to amend Ordinance No. 2212-C-S, that created the Commission, unanimously passed.
Mayor Bernal declared a recess at 10:06 P.M. The meeting reconvened at 10:15 P.M. with all Councilmembers present with the exception of Councilmember Wilson who was previously noted as absent.
6. 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 SYSTEMS
City Manager Scott presented the staff report dated February 25, 2025, recommending the City Council adopt a resolution approving the following: 1) Emergency staffing allocation of a Payroll Specialist; 2) Emergency staffing allocation of a Human Resources Manager; 3) Emergency staffing allocation of a Public Records Coordinator; 4) Emergency staffing allocation of a second Assistant City Manager; 5) Conversion of a Computer Technician to Administrative Assistant in Information Systems; and 6) Authorizing the City Manager to make the necessary budget adjustments.
Devin Willilams spoke in support of funding the emergency staffing allocations as requested.
Andrew Becker suggested the City review the salary schedule to address the disparity for individuals in lower level positions. He supported funding the emergency staffing allocations requested.
Porsha Taylor thank ed City Manager Scott for her comprehensive staff report and spoke in support of funding the emergency staffing allocations requested.
Councilmember Rocha spoke in support of filling vacant positions critical to the organization. He requested clarification of the emergency staffing funding allocation for the Assistant City Manager position.
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City Manager Scott provided clarity on the rationale behind the Assistant City Manager position, which she described as a "bucket" for an executive role that could also serve as Chief of Staff.
She indicated that funding adjustments during the budget process would allow for this conversion, making it budget neutral.
Councilmember Freitas expressed his expectations for the City Manager to evaluate and identify any operational gaps. He stressed the importance of transparency in the public sector and framed the discussion around priorities, timing, and fiscal integrity in the budgeting process. He commended the Council for planning Budget Study Sessions and emphasized the need to address staffing priorities carefully, particularly the hiring of department heads. Although he acknowledged the validity of all requested positions, he reiterated that he could not support the current requests without a thorough budget evaluation.
In response to Mayor Bernal, City Manager Scott clarified the Community Engagement Specialist position would be eliminated as part of the budget process.
Mayor Bernal thanked City Manager Scott for the report and raised concerns about making funding decisions without complete budget information, asserting his support for all requests except for the Assistant City Manager position. He suggested that this request be deferred until further budget discussions could clarify its necessity.
Finance Director Merchant provided details on the estimated costs for the positions under discussion. She highlighted the budget implications of the personnel costs associated with the proposals.
Councilmember Torres-Walker emphasized the challenges faced by the City Manager’s office, especially given the high expectations of both the Council and the community. She highlighted the need for adequate support for the City Manager in achieving effectiv e communication and operational efficiency, noting that the City had been functioning at a deficit.
Councilmember Rocha raised concerns about the funding request for the Assistant City Manager position, emphasizing cost considerations and the importance of existing employees fulfill ing their responsibilities. He urged the City Manager to hold staff accountable if they were not meeting expectations.
Councilmember Torres-Walker reiterated that a competent leader in the City Manager role required appropriate support.
Councilmember Freitas urged Council to establish clear priorities and adopt a cautious approach during the comprehensive budget review.
Mayor Bernal requested a motion to extend the meeting to 11:30 P.M.
On motion by Councilmember Freitas, seconded by Councilmember Rocha the City Council members present unanimously extended the Council Meeting to 11:30 P.M.
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Mayor Bernal acknowledged City Manager Scott for her hard work, noting she brought a valuable level of expertise to the City . He recognized that she needed additional support but proposed that the Council hold off on deciding about the Assistant City Manager position until they had a broader discussion about their funding priorities. He commented that the Assistant City Manager role would be a significant financial commitment and suggested it would be prudent to wait until the budget discussions could further evaluate its necessity. He noted that if the Council later determined this position to be a high priority, they could still consider funding it during the budget approval process.
RESOLUTION NO. 2025/36
On motion by Councilmember Rocha , seconded by Councilmember Torres -Walker the City Council approved the Emergency Staffing allocation of a Payroll Specialist. The motion carried the following vote:
Ayes: Torres-Walker, Rocha, Bernal Noes: Freitas Absent: Wilson
On motion by Councilmember Rocha , seconded by Councilmember Torres -Walker the City Council approv ed the Emergency Staffing allocation of a Human Resources Manager. The motion carried the following vote:
Ayes: Torres-Walker, Rocha, Bernal Noes: Freitas Absent: Wilson
On motion by Councilmember Rocha , seconded by Councilmember Torres -Walker the City Council approv ed the Emergency Staffing allocation of a Public Records Coordinator. The motion carried the following vote:
Ayes: Torres-Walker, Rocha, Bernal Noes: Freitas Absent: Wilson
A motion by Councilmember Torres -Walker to approve emergency staffing allocation of a second Assistant City Manager failed for lack of a second.
On motion by Councilmember Rocha , seconded by Councilmember Torres -Walker the City Council approv ed the conversion of a Computer Technician to Administrative Assistant in Information Systems. The motion carried the following vote:
Ayes: Torres-Walker, Rocha, Bernal Noes: Freitas Absent: Wilson
On motion by Councilmember Rocha , seconded by Councilmember Torres -Walker the City Council members present unanimously authoriz ed the City Manager to make the necessary budget adjustments.
7. CITY COUNCIL 90 -DAY REQUEST LIST – DISCUSSION ON THE CREATION OF A
HOMELESS/UNHOUSED AD HOC COMMITTEE
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Council consensus supported tabling item #7 to the next City Council meeting.
Ricka Davis-Sheard discussed their outreach efforts to the unhoused and requested Council look for individuals who had proven impact and experience to serve on the City’s Commissions.
Andrew Becker stated he supported Standing Committees since Ad Hoc Committees were often ineffective. He suggested former Councilmember Ogorchock be appointed to the Committee since she had experience through various programs. He discussed the needs in the community and voiced his appreciation to Council and City Manager Scott.
On motion by Councilmember Rocha, seconded by Councilmember Torres -Walker the City Council members present unanimously tabled Agenda Item #7 to the next City Council meeting.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Nancy thanked the APD and Code Enforcement for their professionalism and compassion. She also thanked the homeless advocates and discussed the need for housing.
Cassandra Quinto Collins advocated for continued funding for the Angelo Quinto Crisis Response Team (AQCRT) and discussed the importance of the program.
Melissa Case encouraged Council to support City Manager Scott and authorize the hiring of an Assistant City Manager. She suggested using the school marquees for community outreach and adding events to community calendars online. She spoke in support of hiring Acting Director of Public Works/City Engineer Buenting as the permanent Director of Public Works/City Engineer.
STAFF COMMUNICATIONS
City Manager Scott announced Jaden Bear as the new Public Information Officer (PIO), set to start on March 10, 2025. She reported that she was in the process of drafting three Homekey Plus Grants . She encouraged Councilmembers to contact Director of Parks and Recreation Helfenberger if they were interested in participating in the Chichibu Sister City program . She also announced an upcoming online community forum for the Chief of Police search, scheduled for 7:00 P.M. on March 3, 2025 , via Zoom. She noted the Council would be receiving communication from the City Attorney's office concerning the Cannabis Standing Committee .
Additionally, she clarified that there would be no CDBG meeting scheduled for Thursday; however, the CDBG consultant would reach out to committee members to arrange the next meeting. She announced that she and Assistant City Manager Reed recently held a kickoff meeting with Townsend Public Affairs to strategize potential grant opportunities. She reported that she had submitted two Measure X funding applications aimed at supporting youth programs and extending the apprenticeship program, as well as developing a youth workforce development initiative. She c larified that these programs would not be funded through the general fund, indicating that they would end once the available funding was exhausted; however, she committed to pursuing additional funding sources to sustain these programs . She shared that the Economic Development team had presented to the County Supervisors, and the
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feedback was very positive. She reminded the community that there would be a Budget Study Session dedicated to APD and Public Safety and Community Resources on March 4, 2025.
Lastly, she encouraged Council to review the General Plan Update memorandum and expressed her gratitude to former Acting Director of Community Development Scudero for his efforts in preparing that document.
COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS AND FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
Councilmember Torres-Walker thanked City Manager Scott and requested calendar holds and invites for internal meetings be sent out by staff.
Councilmember Freitas raised concerns about an article from the Contra Costa News that addressed the Urban Limit Line. He noted that the proposed timeline for reviewing and discussing this matter seemed inadequate. He suggested prioritizing the item, as it has implications for several critical areas. He discussed a policy launched by the Department of Homeless and Supportive Housing requiring City funded permanent supportive housing providers to adopt and enforce a weapons policy for tenants. He requested staff review this information, viewing it as a potential opportunity for the City to take proactive measures to mitigate violence within certain facilities.
ADJOURNMENT
On motion by Councilmember Torres-Walker, seconded by Councilmember Rocha the City Council unanimously adjourned the meeting at 11:40 P.M.
Respectfully submitted:
Kitty Eiden
KITTY EIDEN, Minutes Clerk