CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Special/Regular Meeting May 13, 2025
5:30 P.M. Council Chambers
4:00 P.M. - CLOSED SESSION
Mayor Bernal called the Closed Session to order at 4:00 P.M., and Acting City Clerk Rosales called the roll.
Present: Council Members District 1 Torres-Walker, District 4 Wilson, Mayor Pro Tem (District 2) Rocha and Mayor Bernal
Absent: Council Member District 3 Freitas (arrived at 4:03 P.M.)
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Bernal led the Pledge of Allegiance.
1. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATIONS – pursuant to California Government Code section 54956.8; Property: Lone Tree Golf Course, 4800 Golf Course Road, Antioch, CA 94531; Negotiating Parties: City of Antioch Negotiators: Bessie Marie Scott, City Manager, Derek Cole, Interim City Attorney, and Brad Helfenberger, Assistant City Manager; Antioch Public Golf, Incorporated Negotiator: Ronald Parish, General Manager; Under Negotiation: Terms of Payment.
2, CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – EXISTING LITIGATION – pursuant to California Government Code section 54956.9(d)(1): Shornikov v. City of Antioch et al., Contra Costa Superior Court Case No. C24-03457.
3. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – ANTICIPATED LITIGATION – Significant exposure to litigation pursuant to California Government Code section 54956.9(d)(2): One potential case.
PUBLIC COMMENTS - None
ADJOURN TO CLOSED SESSION
Mayor Bernal adjourned to Closed Session at 4:02 P.M.
Councilmember Freitas arrived after the adjournment to Closed Session at 4:03 P.M. 5:30 P.M. - SPECIAL MEETING/BUDGET STUDY SESSION
Mayor Bernal called the Special Meeting to order at 5:30 P.M., and City Clerk Rhodes called the roll.
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Present: Council Members District 1 Torres-Walker, District 3 Freitas, District 4 Wilson, Mayor Pro Tem (District 2) Rocha and Mayor Bernal
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Bernal led the Pledge of Allegiance.
BUDGET STUDY SESSION
SM-1. FISCAL YEAR 2025-27 BUDGET DEVELOPMENT – ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT (Continued from April 22, 2025)
Assistant City Manager Helfenberger introduced the Budget Study Session.
Economic Development Program Manager Sweet gave the Business Services Overview Economic Development PowerPoint presentation.
Councilmember Torres-Walker suggested that in the future, Council consider implementing a vacancy tax to address the issue of vacant residential and commercial properties, as well as undeveloped land. Furthermore, she indicated a desire to have a future discussion regarding the adoption of a local hire policy.
Council thanked Economic Development Program Manager Sweet for the presentation. They engaged in a discussion regarding the presentation and provided the following direction to staff:
Provide an update on the RFQ process for downtown Economic Development Add Council to the distribution list for the newsletter Clearly define business expenses and marketing/programming Reduce marketing/programming to approximately $250k
SM-2. FISCAL YEAR 2025-27 BUDGET DEVELOPMENT – CITY MANAGER (Continued from April 22, 2025)
In the absence of City Manager Scott, Assistant City Manager Helfenberger recommended SM- 2 be continued to a future meeting.
On motion by Councilmember Wilson, seconded by Councilmember Torres-Walker the City Council unanimously continued SM-2 to a future meeting.
MOTION TO ADJOURN SPECIAL MEETING/BUDGET STUDY SESSION
On motion by Councilmember Wilson, seconded by Councilmember Torres-Walker the City Council unanimously adjourned the Special Meeting at 6:12 P.M. 7:00 P.M. REGULAR MEETING
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Mayor Bernal called the meeting to order at 7:00 P.M., and City Clerk Rhodes called the roll.
Present: Council Members District 1 Torres-Walker, District 3 Freitas, District 4 Wilson, Mayor Pro Tem (District 2) Rocha and Mayor Bernal
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Bernal led the Pledge of Allegiance.
CITY ATTORNEY TO REPORT OUT ON CLOSED SESSION
Special Counsel Elizabeth M. Fratarcangeli reported the City Council had been in Closed Session and gave the following report: #1 CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATIONS, no reportable action, #2 CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – EXISTING LITIGATION, direction given to City Attorney to file a cross-complaint, by a 5-0 vote; and, #3 CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – ANTICIPATED LITIGATION, update provided to City Council; no reportable action.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Councilmember Torres-Walker suggested that Mayor Bernal revisit the restriction of public comment time and reconsider having the City Clerk read the speaker rules which further limited the time allotted for public comments.
Mayor Bernal responded that the speaker rules had been in place for years and that the Council was now enforcing them in order to maintain a productive flow of business. Additionally, he noted there was also a designated time at the end of the meeting for the public to provide comments.
City Clerk Rhodes announced the speaker rules for the Council meeting.
Moises Riley spoke in support of a proclamation honoring cats.
Leslie May expressed concern about criminal activity in her neighborhood and noted delayed response to service requests. Additionally, she discussed potential violations of the Brown Act and Robert’s Rules of Order that occurred during an Antioch Police Oversight Commission (APOC) meeting and recommended that new commissioners review historical data before participating to ensure they are well-informed.
Kathryn Reza, Raley’s Center, discussed ongoing criminal activity in the area. Additionally, she suggested Council streamline the approval process for a new pad site location. She reported on an opportunity to place a mural on a wall at their shopping center, and proposed Council consider funding the project.
Jorge Garcia, Chavelita’s Taqueria, expressed concern for ongoing criminal activity in the Raley’s Shopping Center that had negatively impacted his business.
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Margie Carrell discussed her complaints concerning certain City officials, an individual, and a local community group.
Krystle Brooks expressed concern about a delayed response from the Antioch Police Department (APD) to a recent incident at her home. Additionally, she requested that the City coordinate with non-profit organizations to provide outreach services for unhoused residents.
Velma Wilson thanked the APD and Forever Me Foundation for supporting and assisting her in hosting the Creating Your Brand Spring Into Action celebration.
Mayra advocated for a youth center in Antioch.
Melissa Case discussed the Commercial Infill Housing (CIH) overlay project near Buchanan and Somersville, expressing concern about the limited availability of commercial and retail projects in the area to support the needs of the residents.
Johnny Trizuto played a video of his arrest and discussed the charges that had been filed against him.
1. PROCLAMATIONS
• Be Kind to Animals Month, May 2025
• Mental Health Awareness Month, May 2025
• National Public Works Week, May 18-24, 2025
On motion by Councilmember Wilson, seconded by Councilmember Freitas, the City Council unanimously approved the Proclamations.
Due to technical difficulties, Mayor Bernal declared a recess at 7:36 P.M. The meeting reconvened at 7:43 P.M. with all Councilmembers present.
Michele Kuslits and members of Antioch Friends of Animal Services accepted and thanked the City Council for the Be Kind to Animals Month proclamation.
Terri Brown-Garrett, Family Justice Center, accepted and thanked the City Council for the Mental Health Awareness Month proclamation. She announced they would be starting a Mind, Power and Action cohort from 6:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M. on May 14, 2025, at the Family Justice Center.
Director of Public Works/City Engineer Buenting, Lead Facility Maintenance Worker/President of the Antioch Public Works Association Strongman and his son RJ accepted and thanked the City Council for the National Public Works Week proclamation.
Mayor Bernal recognized former Director of Public Works/City Engineer Stan Davis in attendance this evening.
2. ANNOUNCEMENTS OF CIVIC AND COMMUNITY EVENTS
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Velma Wilson announced the following civic and community events. Memorial Day Ceremony – 10:00 A.M. on May 26, 2025, Oak View Memorial Park Memorial Day Pancake Breakfast - 8:00 A.M. March 26, 2025, Antioch Rivertown Veterans’ Lion’s Club
Memorial Day Free Lunch – following the ceremony at the VFW at Fulton Shipyard Director of Public Safety and Community Resources Johnson announced the following civic and community event.
First Time Homebuyer Program Workshop - 6:00 P.M. – 7:30 P.M. on May 22, 2025, via Zoom
Gavin Payton announced the following civic and community event:
NAACP Youth Council Juneteenth Choir and Praise Dance Competition - 2:30 P.M. on June 21, 2025, at True Light Missionary Baptist Church
Police Chief Vigil announced the following civic and community events:
APD Activities League Texas Holdem Poker Tournament/Fundraiser - May 16, 2025 APD Bicycle Rodeo - May 24, 2025, at the Antioch Police Department Jose Cardone announced the following civic and community event. Poetry Open Mic - last Friday of every month at Wellness Healing Room Mayor Bernal announced the following civic and community event. Police Chief Vigil Swearing-In – 3:00 P.M. on May 27, 2025
3. ANNOUNCEMENTS OF BOARD AND COMMISSION OPENINGS
City Clerk Rhodes announced the following Board and Commission openings. Board of Administrative Appeals
For more information and to apply, visit the City’s website.
CITY COUNCIL COMMITTEE REPORTS/COMMUNICATIONS
Councilmember Freitas provided a history of the Carnegie Library and reported on a tour he attended of the facility with Councilmember Torres-Walker. He expressed interest in Council discussing the rehabilitation of the building for use as a community room.
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Councilmember Torres-Walker thanked Andrew Becker for informing her about Antioch’s history.
She also expressed appreciation to staff for maintaining the Carnegie Library property and spoke in support of reactivating the space to honor Antioch’s heritage and to serve as a community room. Additionally, she suggested Council consider rehabilitating other historical sites in Antioch.
Councilmember Freitas reported on his attendance at the Tri Delta meeting.
Councilmember Torres-Walker reported on her attendance at a Women’s Conference in San Francisco with Councilmember Wilson, City Manager Scott and Supervisor Burgis. She announced the following community meetings.
Green Empowerment Zone Meeting – 9:30 A.M. on May 16, 2025, in Martinez City/School Standing Committee Meeting – 1:30 P.M. on May 19, 2025, at the Antioch Unified School District Office
CDBG Standing Committee - 9:00 A.M. on May 21, 2025, in Council Chambers Councilmember Torres-Walker also thanked everyone who had wished her a happy birthday and Public Works for installing traffic calming measures in her neighborhood. She encouraged youth to become involved in local government.
Councilmember Wilson announced Delta Diablo would be meeting on May 15, 2025. She reported on her attendance at several meetings in Washington DC with Councilmember Rocha, City Manager Scott, Brian Addington and Chief Vigil. She also reported on her attendance at the Influential Women’s dinner.
Councilmember Rocha reported on his attendance at meetings in Washington DC. He announced the Antioch Women’s Club was hosting free coffee socials for Veterans every Friday 10:00 A.M – 12:00 P.M. beginning May 23, 2025.
Mayor Bernal reported on his attendance at TRANSPLAN, Mayor’s Conference, Contra Costa County Transportation Plan Ad Hoc meeting, Rivertown Wine Walk and Artisan Fair, Antioch High School Open House and Delta 6.
MAYOR’S COMMENTS
Mayor Bernal reported on his attendance at the swearing-in ceremony for eight new APD officers. He expressed appreciation to Police Chief Vigil and Director of Human Resources Cortez for their efforts in the hiring process. He announced a Budget Study Session would take place on May 20, 2025, and encouraged community members to participate. He also noted that the Council had already held nine budget study sessions and thanked staff for their hard work.
4. PRESENTATION
Contra Costa Mosquito and Vector Control District Update Presented by Public Affairs Director Nola Woods
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Leslie May inquired whether watering her plants might attract mosquitoes and asked if the County could spray for mosquitoes in Antioch. She also encouraged the County to issue fines to those who leave standing water on their properties.
Ms. Woods responded to inquiries from the public.
6. CONSENT CALENDAR
A. APPROVAL OF COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING/CLOSED SESSION MINUTES FOR APRIL 9, 2025
B. APPROVAL OF COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES FOR APRIL 10, 2025 C. APPROVAL OF COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES FOR APRIL 15, 2025 D. APPROVAL OF COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES FOR APRIL 22, 2025 E. APPROVAL OF COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING/CLOSED SESSION MINUTES FOR MAY 12, 2025
F. APPROVAL OF COUNCIL WARRANTS
G. RESOLUTION NO. 2025/76 ARCTIC WOLF NETWORKS CYBERSECURITY
SERVICES AGREEMENT
H. RESOLUTION NO. 2025/77 APPROVING PROMENADE PHASE 5 IN-TRACT PUBLIC UTILITY IMPROVEMENTS, SUBDIVISION 9568 (P.W. 697-5)
I. RESOLUTION NO. 2025/78 APPROVING PROMENADE PHASE 6 IN-TRACT PUBLIC UTILITY IMPROVEMENTS, SUBDIVISION 9569 (P.W. 697-6)
J. RESOLUTION NO. 2025/79 CONSIDERATION OF BIDS FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD TRAFFIC CALMING PROJECT (P.W. 282-19B)
K. RESOLUTION NO. 2025/80 CONSIDERATION OF ACCEPTANCE OF THE PTAP-26
AWARD NOTICE AND LOCAL MATCH FUNDING SUBMISSION FOR THE
PAVEMENT MANAGEMENT TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE PROJECT
L. RESOLUTION NO. 2025/81 AMENDMENT TO THE AGREEMENT WITH KARL NEEDHAM ENTERPRISES, INC. FOR THE WATER TREATMENT PLANT SOLIDS
HANDLING RENTAL EQUIPMENT
M. RESOLUTION NO. 2025/82 PURCHASE ORDER APPROVALS FOR ANNUAL WATER TREATMENT CHEMICAL PURCHASES IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,980,000
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N. RESOLUTION NO. 2025/83 APPROVING THE CLASS SPECIFICATIONS UPDATES
FOR THE MANAGEMENT BARGAINING UNIT WITH NO SALARY CHANGES
O. REJECTION OF CLAIM: JOSE EFREN GRAJEDA
On motion by Councilmember Wilson, seconded by Councilmember Rocha, the City Council unanimously approved the Council Consent Calendar with the exception of Item J, which was removed for further discussion.
Item J – Assistant City Manager Helfenberger introduced Consent Calendar Item J.
Director of Public Works/City Engineer Buenting presented the staff report dated May 13, 2025, recommending the City Council adopt the resolution.
Melissa Case thanked staff for the comprehensive report.
Leslie May advocated for Traffic Calming Projects on James Donlon Blvd. and West 10th Street.
Erika Raulston and Mayra advocated for a Neighborhood Traffic Calming Project in their neighborhood.
In response to the public and Council, Director of Public Works/City Engineer Buenting explained the process for prioritizing Neighborhood Traffic Calming Projects. He confirmed projects approved for Sycamore Drive, James Donlon Blvd. and West 10th Street would be completed.
Councilmember Freitas requested staff provide Council with the list of the traffic calming project requests and funds available for the program.
On motion by Councilmember Freitas, seconded by Councilmember Rocha the City Council unanimously approved Consent Calendar Item J.
COUNCIL REGULAR AGENDA
6. ANTIOCH POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMISSION APPOINTMENT FOR ONE PARTIAL- TERM VACANCY EXPIRING NOVEMBER 2025
Assistant City Manager Helfenberger presented the staff report dated May 13, 2025, recommending Council adopt a resolution approving the Mayor’s appointment of Joseph Mitchell to the Antioch Police Oversight Commission for the partial-term vacancy expiring November 2025.
Erika Raulston, Reimagine Antioch, Gavin Payton, NAACP, Dr. Kimberly Payton, President of the East County NAACP, and an unidentified speaker, expressed opposition to the appointment of Joseph Mitchell to the APOC, noting that comments he made on his personal social media account were a concern.
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Melissa Case shared her personal interactions with Mr. Mitchell and expressed support for appointing him to the APOC.
Nichole Gardner encouraged Council to consider the importance of focusing on the community members who needed healing.
Joseph Mitchell explained that the negative comments made about him were unfounded and that his social media posts had been taken out of context. He spoke about his character, his commitment to public service, and his desire to foster the restoration of public trust.
Councilmember Torres-Walker reflected on her past experiences with social media, highlighting how personal experiences can be used against someone without understanding their core values. She expressed her hope for the success of the APOC and for Mr. Mitchell to have the opportunity to serve and demonstrate that his values are aligned with those of the City.
A motion was made by Councilmember Torres-Walker, seconded by Councilmember Freitas to adopt a resolution approving the Mayor’s appointment of Joseph Mitchell to the Antioch Police Oversight Commission for the partial-term vacancy expiring November 2025.
Councilmember Freitas spoke about Mr. Mitchell’s character and his years of volunteer work.
He addressed the challenges associated with social media and noted that this appointment was partial, and Mr. Mitchell’s actions would be closely scrutinized. He also recognized Councilmember Torres-Walker for making the motion to appoint Mr. Mitchell.
Councilmember Torres-Walker encouraged Mayor Bernal to follow up with the Commissioners to ensure that their individual biases were not influencing the process.
Councilmember Rocha expressed support for giving people the opportunity to demonstrate who they are and emphasized the importance of making decisions based on actions.
Councilmember Wilson encouraged Mr. Mitchell to serve as a positive bridge for the community.
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A vote taken on the previous motion to adopt the resolution passed unanimously.
Mayor Bernal declared a recess at 9:50 P.M. The meeting reconvened at 10:01 P.M. with all Councilmembers present.
7. CITY COUNCIL REQUESTED DISCUSSION ITEM – ASSISTANCE TO THE ANTIOCH
HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Assistant City Manager Helfenberger presented the staff report dated May 13, 2025, recommending the City Council discuss and provide direction to City staff.
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Dwayne Eubanks gave an overview of the First Congregational Church Bell Project and requested Council consider a full or partial waiver of permit fees to advance the project.
Councilmember Freitas disclosed that he was a lifetime member of the Antioch Historical Society and reported that Mr. Davis had contacted him regarding the possibility of the City waiving approximately $2,200 in permit fees.
Councilmember Rocha stated he worked at the Museum and supported the historical aspect of this project.
Mr. Eubanks reported that the total estimated cost for the project was approximately $96,000, and they had just begun their fundraising campaign, having received approximately $27,000.
On motion by Councilmember Freitas, seconded by Councilmember Rocha the City Council unanimously directed staff to waive the permit fees for the project of approximately $2200.00 for the First Congregational Church Bell Project.
8. RENAMING OF THE MAYORS APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM (M.A.P.) Assistant City Manager Helfenberger introduced Regular Agenda Item #8.
Director of Public Safety and Community Resources Johnson presented the staff report dated May 13, 2025, recommending the City Council adopt a resolution approving a name change of the Mayor’s Apprenticeship Program (M.A.P.) to [insert name after approval]. She reported the youth had discussed the name change and proposed the following options: Ready, Inspire, Success and Empower (RISE), Growth, Resilience, Initiative and Tenacity (GRIT) and Skills, Opportunity, Access and Resilience (SOAR). She noted if Council wished to retain the MAP acronym it could be changed to represent Motivate, Advance and Prosper.
Councilmember Freitas suggested Director of Public Safety and Community Resources Johnson involve the Public Information Officer (PIO) in the youth’s logo design efforts.
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On motion by Councilmember Rocha, seconded by Councilmember Wilson the City Council unanimously adopted a resolution approving a name change of the Mayor’s Apprenticeship Program (M.A.P.) to Skills, Opportunity, Access and Resilience [SOAR].
9. RESOLUTION APPROVING A MASTER LEASE AGREEMENT WITH RUDRAM LLC
FOR THE ENCAMPMENT RESOLUTION FUND INTERIM HOUSING PROGRAM Assistant City Manager Helfenberger introduced Regular Agenda Item #9.
Director of Public Safety and Community Resources Johnson presented the staff report dated May 13, 2025, recommending the City Council adopt a resolution approving a Master Lease Agreement with Rudram LLC in the amount of $1,800,000 for the Executive Inn Motel property
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for the period of July 1, 2025 through December 31, 2026, for use as an interim housing program site for individuals experiencing homelessness and authorizing the City Manager or designee to execute the Agreement in a form approved by the City Attorney.
Melissa Case thanked Director of Public Safety and Community Resources Johnson for the comprehensive presentation and suggested that, in the future, the details of the project be included in the staff report. Additionally, she encouraged the City to consider negotiating the rate with the Executive Inn Motel.
Nichole Gardner gave a history of the City’s interim housing program at the Executive Inn and spoke in support of approving the resolution.
Andrew Becker expressed concern that both bids were not included in the staff report. He reported that he had met with various stakeholders and that ERF funding was being considered in combination with a Homekey opportunity; however, the City chose to award the contract to another entity with a higher bid. He requested that the item be tabled until more context could be provided.
Krystal Brooks spoke in support of continuing the Executive Inn Interim Housing Program.
Councilmember Freitas suggested that, in the future, the City consider build a permanent facility to contain costs. He requested that Council receive regular reports on the progress of the program.
Councilmember Torres-Walker commented that this should have been a Homekey conversation leveraging state and federal dollars to complement encampment resolution funds for long-term, more sustainable solutions. Additionally, she voiced her concern that both bids were not included in the staff report.
Councilmember Rocha reported that he had received communications from residents concerned about the unhoused community in the Devpar Ct./Sunset Drive area, and this funding was targeted to assist those living in that encampment. He discussed potential opportunities to leverage funds to develop a city-owned property for a long-term shelter.
A motion was made by Councilmember Freitas and seconded by Councilmember Torres-Walker to adopt the resolution approving a Master Lease Agreement with Rudram LLC in the amount of $1,800,000 for the Executive Inn Motel property for the period of July 1, 2025 through December 31, 2026, for use as an interim housing program site for individuals experiencing homelessness and authorizing the City Manager or designee to execute the Agreement in a form approved by the City Attorney with the following direction to staff:
Develop a form to measure success
Provide quarterly reports to Council every 90 days commencing July 1, 2025 Investigate permanent solutions for homeless housing and services
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In response to Mayor Bernal and Councilmember Torres-Walker, Director of Public Safety and Community Resources Johnson reviewed the ERF grant guidelines and program timeline.
Councilmember Torres-Walker requested an update on the formation of the Unhoused Ad Hoc Committee and Unhoused Task Force, as well as presentations on the Point in Time Count, Homekey, and information the City received from the Department of Housing.
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A vote taken on the previous motion passed unanimously.
On motion by Councilmember Freitas, seconded by Councilmember Torres-Walker the City Council extended the meeting to 11:30 P.M.
10. SEWER SYSTEM MANAGEMENT PLAN UPDATE 2025
Assistant City Manager Helfenberger presented Regular Agenda item #10.
Councilmember Freitas stated he had requested this item come back as a regular agenda item and following his review of the staff report, he would support adopting the resolution.
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On motion by Councilmember Freitas, seconded by Councilmember Torres-Walker the City Council unanimously adopted a resolution approving the Sewer System Management Plan Update 2025 as mandated by the State Water Resources Control Board and authorize staff to certify the approved update using the State Water Resources Control Board Electronic Reporting System.
11. APPROVAL OF AGREEMENT WITH MS INVESTIGATIVE SERVICES AND CONSULTING, LLC. FOR UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE (USDOJ) – REQUIRED CONSULTING SERVICES IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $250,000
ANNUALLY, WITH AUTHORIZATION FOR OPTIONAL EXTENSIONS
Assistant City Manager Helfenberger introduced Regular Agenda Item #11.
Executive Consultant Addington presented the staff report dated May 13, 2025, recommending the City Council adopt a resolution: 1) Approving a Professional Services Agreement with MS Investigative Services and Consulting, LLC to serve as the Consultant pursuant to the Agreement with the United States Department of Justice (USDOJ), in an amount not to exceed $250,000 annually for a term of three years; 2) Authorizing the City Manager to execute the Professional Services Agreement, in a form approved by the City Attorney; and 3) Should the USDOJ require services beyond the initial three-year term, direct the City Manager to return to the City Council to seek authorization and approval of an amendment to the Professional Services Agreement to provide for a fourth and/or fifth year, at an annual amount not to exceed $250,000.
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Michael Keough, Assistant United States Attorney on behalf of the Department of Justice Northern District of California, stated Executive Consultant Addington appropriately outlined the process, noting that the settlement agreement required mutual consent between the City and the USDOJ to select a consultant. He reported the United States expressed the opinion that Mr.
Sappal and his firm were an excellent choice for this role.
Manjit Sappal, MS Investigative Services and Consulting, LLC provided a history of his policing experience in Contra Costa County and expressed that this role presented a great opportunity to collaborate with the community, APOC, and APD to implement sustainable changes that would benefit the community.
Councilmember Freitas commented that background information and the scope of work should have been included in the staff report.
In response to Councilmember Freitas, Mr. Sappal stated that he had not monitored settlement agreements or worked directly with the USDOJ; however, much of his work focused on evaluating, implementing, and providing training to various organizations.
Lynette Hart reported 21 st Century Policing submitted their proposal to conduct the USDOJ- related work and she provided a background of their organization. She reported that they did not receive an interview, and the City did not acknowledge receipt of their proposal. Additionally, she noted that another Police Chief had contacted her to inform her that they also submitted their proposal on time but did not receive an interview. She requested that the Council table this item to gain a clearer understanding of the RFP process.
Executive Consultant Addington reported that fourteen applications were ranked by the USDOJ, with the City agreeing with their top six choices. He confirmed that they had not received a bid from 21st Century Policing. He noted that another consultant claimed to have submitted a proposal that was not received by the City, as it was caught in the City’s cybersecurity system, and he could not verify if other proposals were similarly affected. He explained that the City Attorney’s office indicated that the City did not have a legal obligation to change their cyber security system. He noted there had also been discussion about Mr. Sappal’s lack of prior work with the USDOJ, though he was the top-scoring candidate based on five evaluation factors. He further noted the agreement specified a 90-day timeline, which was 40 days overdue, but in consultation with the USDOJ, it was understood that the item would be brought before Council for consideration this evening.
Councilmember Freitas expressed concern that the City had chosen a firm that had no experience in monitoring consent decrees or settlements.
Michael Keough clarified that the USDOJ's evaluation criteria focused on experience with police practices in this community, which Mr. Sappal possessed.
Executive Consultant Addington explained that the scope of services was outlined in the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), and the same scope would be included in the professional services agreement.
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Mr. Sappal provided a brief overview of his work in other communities and highlighted his success in addressing their needs.
On motion by Councilmember Wilson, seconded by Councilmember Rocha the City Council unanimously extended the meeting to 11:40 P.M.
Councilmember Rocha stated that based on the presentation he trusted those who made the recommendation to select MS Investigative Services.
A motion was made by Councilmember Rocha, seconded by Councilmember Wilson to adopt a resolution: 1) Approving a Professional Services Agreement with MS Investigative Services and Consulting, LLC to serve as the Consultant pursuant to the Agreement with the United States Department of Justice (USDOJ), in an amount not to exceed $250,000 annually for a term of three years; 2) Authorizing the City Manager to execute the Professional Services Agreement, in a form approved by the City Attorney; and 3) Should the USDOJ require services beyond the initial three-year term, direct the City Manager to return to the City Council to seek authorization and approval of an amendment to the Professional Services Agreement to provide for a fourth and/or fifth year, at an annual amount not to exceed $250,000.
In response to Councilmember Wilson, Executive Consultant Addington stated that he had no contact with anyone from 21st Century Policing and had not seen their proposal. He explained that he had used the terms "consultant" and "monitor" interchangeably.
In response to Councilmember Freitas, Interim City Attorney Cole stated that Council approving the resolution as recommended aligned with the City’s process. He mentioned that his office would review the draft agreement, and it would include a termination clause. Additionally, exhibit “A” to the agreement would specify the scope of work as outlined in the MOA.
Executive Consultant Addington added that the MOA detailed nine items outlining the scope of work required of the consultant. He also stated that the agreement would specify an hourly rate.
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A vote taken on the previous motion to adopt the resolution passed unanimously.
On motion by Councilmember Rocha, seconded by Councilmember Torres-Walker the City Council unanimously extended the meeting to 12:00 A.M.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Lynette Hart discussed her dedication to the community and encouraged Council to due their due diligence.
Andrew Becker gave a history of Homekey opportunities and expressed concern that the City was going to miss another deadline.
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STAFF COMMUNICATIONS - None
COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS AND FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
Councilmember Wilson requested staff agendize a discussion on historical sites in Antioch.
Councilmember Rocha requested an update on the City’s policy regarding virtual participation in Council meetings.
Assistant City Manager Helfenberger responded that he would send Council the established policy.
Councilmember Torres-Walker reported the City adopted a resolution prohibiting zoom participation during City meetings and spoke in support of bringing the zoom option back. She also requested Council schedule a special meeting to discuss Homekey.
ADJOURNMENT
On motion by Councilmember Wilson, seconded by Councilmember Torres-Walker the City Council unanimously adjourned the meeting at 11:53 P.M.
Respectfully submitted:
Kitty Eiden
KITTY EIDEN, Minutes Clerk