CITY OF AVENAL
“Pistachio Capital of the World®”
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL/SUCCESSOR AGENCY/PFA MEETING
JANUARY 23, 2025; 5:15 P.M.
AVENAL THEATER & EVENT CENTER, 233 E. KINGS ST., AVENAL, CA VIA ZOOM VIDEO/WEB CONFERENCING:
Web Link: bit.ly/AvenalCouncil or use https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87243440488 Or by calling +1 669 900 6833 and use meeting ID 872 4344 0488 to join.
Study Session: AB-1234 (Ethics) Training - Moses Diaz, City Attorney 4:00 P.M.
LAST ORDINANCE: 2024-02 CITY LAST RESOLUTION: 2025-08
(SA) LAST RESOLUTION: 2025-01 PFA LAST RESOLUTION: 2024-02 AGENDA
1. CALL TO ORDER & PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
2. ROLL CALL: Councilmembers: Ricardo Verdugo, David Reynosa, Pablo Hernandez, Mayor Pro, Tem M.
Leticia Gamez; Mayor, Alvaro Preciado.
CITY CLERK:
Government Code Section 54952.3: The members of the City Council/Successor Agency are entitled to receive a total of $450.00 per month because of being elected to the City Council. They receive no other compensation for sitting as a member of Successor Agency.
3. PUBLIC COMMENT/ANNOUNCEMENTS & UNSCHEDULED APPEARANCES:
Any person may directly address the Council/Agency at this time on any item on the agenda or on any other items of interest to the public that is within the subject matter jurisdiction of the City Council/Successor Agency. State Law prohibits any member of the Council/Agency from commenting or acting on matters not on the agenda. Three (3) minutes are allowed per person.
Consider Recognizing Senior Officer Miguel Gracida as the Recipient of the 2024 Avenal Police Department Courage to Lead Award
4. CONSENT CALENDAR:
All items listed under the consent calendar are routine or for approval only and are enacted by one motion: (Action).
A. Consider City of Avenal/Successor Agency’s Approval of Minutes for January 9, 2025.
B. Ratify Resolution 2025-08/ SA Resolution 2025-01-Recognized Obligation Payment Schedule FY 25-26 for July 2025 through June 2026.
C. Approve Expenditure for Repair to Main Pump #1 - Plant #1 (Motion).
D. Consider Transitioning the Property and Evidence Officer Position from Part-Time to Full-Time within the Avenal Police Department (Resolution 2025-09).
E. Consider Replacing the Title of Police Captain to Police Commander and Update Job Description (Resolution 2025-10).
F. Consider Replacing the Title of Senior Police Officer to Police Corporal and Update Job Description (Resolution 2025-11).
G. Consider Adopting by Resolution, New and Amended Citywide Policies for the City of Avenal Policy & Procedure Manual: Social Media Terms of Use Policy; Content Creation Guide and Official City Branding Social Media; Sexual Harassment; Discipline; Email Etiquette Policies, & Gym Release Form (Resolution 2025-12).
5. MAYOR & COUNCIL MEMBER/ SUCCESSOR AGENCY/ ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION:
A. None
6. ACTIVITY REPORTS/SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS & COMMITTEE REPORTS:
A. Activity Reports:
1. Police Department Activity Report: Cecilio Velasco, Chief of Police.
2. Community Development Activity Report: Kelsey George, Contract City Planner, 4Creeks.
3. Economic Development & Grant Writing Report: Emily Engelsgaard, Grants Manager, the CrisCom Company.
B. Special Presentations:
a. Kings County Behavioral Health Community Updates
January 23, 2025 Pg. 1
7. PUBLIC HEARING(s):
A. None
8. OLD BUSINESS:
A. SRO Agreement with RSUSD (Informational).
9. NEW BUSINESS:
A. None.
10. CORRESPONDENCE/ANNOUNCEMENTS/CLOSING COMMENTS:
Any Council member may request an item be placed on a future agenda, provided that a simple majority also support adding said item. Discussion or action on any item not on the current agenda is strictly prohibited. Closing comments are intended for Council members to report attendance of any special events and pertinent information back to the public.
• Upcoming/Future Agenda Items to Consider.
• Correspondence/Announcements/Information/Closing Comments.
11. CLOSED SESSION: (City/Successor Agency):
It is the intent of this governing body to meet in closed session to review its position and to instruct its designated representatives: Any person may directly address the Council/Agency at this time on items of interest regarding Closed Session.
A. Threat to Public Services or Facilities § 54957(a)).
Consultation with Chief of Police.
B. Conference with Real Property Negotiator(s) (Government Code § 54956.8).
It is the intent of this governing body to meet in Closed Session to confer with its real property negotiator(s) concerning the purchase, sale, exchange, or lease of real property by or for this agency as follows:
1. Property Description: APN: 040-320-009-000; & 040-320-014-000 Negotiator(s): City Manager/City Attorney.
Party with whom negotiating: CrisCom Company. Instructions to negotiator concerning: Terms of Payment.
12. ADJOURNMENT:
1) In compliance with the Americans with Disability Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact the City Clerk’s Office (559) 386-5766. Avenal Theater & Event Center, 233 East Kings Street Avenal, CA 93204. Notification 48 hours prior to the meeting will enable the city to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting [28 CFR 35.02.35.1044 AA Title II].
2) Materials related to an item on this Agenda submitted to the [Council/ Authority] after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection in the [City Clerks] office at 919 Skyline Blvd., Avenal, CA 93204 during normal business hours.
I certify this Agenda of the City of Avenal City Council workshop is to be posted at the following locations: 1) City Council Chambers, Avenal Theater 233 E. Kings St.; 2) City Hall 919 Skyline Blvd.; 3) Avenal Lumber, 600 Skyline Blvd.; and 4) T&T Market, 801 Skyline Blvd. Avenal CA 93204 on, January 20, 2025.
__ /s/ Maria Ortiz
Maria Ortiz, City Clerk
January 23, 2025 Pg. 2
CIUDAD DE AVENAL
"Capital Mundial del Pistacho®"
REUNIÓN ORDINARIA DEL CONCEJO MUNICIPAL/AGENCIA
SUCESORA/PFA DEL 23 DE ENERO DE 2025; 5:15 P.M.
TEATRO Y CENTRO DE EVENTOS AVENAL, 233 E. KINGS ST., AVENAL, CA A TRAVÉS DE VIDEO/CONFERENCIA WEB DE ZOOM:
Enlace web: bit.ly/AvenalCouncil o utilizar https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87243440488 O llamando al +1 669 900 6833 y utilizando el ID de reunión 872 4344 0488 para unirse.
Sesión de Estudio: AB-1234 (Ética) Capacitación - Moses Diaz, Abogado de la Ciudad 4:00 P.M.
ÚLTIMA ORDENANZA: 2024-02 CIUDAD ÚLTIMA RESOLUCIÓN: 2025-08 (SA) ÚLTIMA RESOLUCIÓN: 2025-01 ÚLTIMA RESOLUCIÓN DE PFA: 2024-02 AGENDA
1. LLAMADO AL ORDEN Y JURAMENTO DE LEALTAD:
2. PASE NOMINAL: Concejales: Ricardo Verdugo, David Reynosa, Pablo Hernández, Alcalde Pro, Tem M.
Leticia Gámez; Alcalde, Álvaro Preciado.
SECRETARIO MUNICIPAL:
Sección 54952.3 del Código de Gobierno: Los miembros del Concejo Municipal/Agencia Sucesora tienen derecho a recibir un total de $450.00 por mes debido a ser elegidos para el Concejo Municipal. No reciben ninguna otra compensación por ser miembros de la Agencia Sucesora.
3. COMENTARIOS PÚBLICOS/ANUNCIOS Y APARICIONES NO PROGRAMADAS:
Cualquier persona puede dirigirse directamente al Concejo/Agencia en este momento sobre cualquier tema en la agenda o sobre cualquier otro tema de interés para el público que esté dentro de la jurisdicción temática del Concejo Municipal/Agencia Sucesora. La ley estatal prohíbe a cualquier miembro del Consejo/Agencia comentar o actuar sobre asuntos que no están en la agenda. Se permiten tres (3) minutos por persona.
Considere reconocer al oficial superior Miguel Gracida como el destinatario del Premio al Coraje para Liderar 2024 del Departamento de Policía de Avenal
4. CALENDARIO DE CONSENTIMIENTO:
Todos los elementos enumerados en el calendario de consentimiento son de rutina o solo para aprobación y se promulgan mediante una moción: (Acción).
A. Considere la aprobación de las minutas de la Ciudad de Avenal/agencia sucesora para el 9 de enero de 2025.
B. Ratificar la Resolución 2025-08/ SA Resolución 2025-01-Cronograma de Pago de Obligaciones Reconocidas FY 25-26 para julio de 2025 a junio de 2026.
C. Aprobar los gastos de reparación de la bomba principal #1 - Planta #1 (moción).
D. Considere la Transición del Puesto de Oficial de Propiedad y Evidencia de Tiempo Parcial a Tiempo Completo dentro del Departamento de Policía de Avenal (Resolución 2025-09).
E. Considerar cambiar el título de Capitán de Policía a Comandante de Policía y actualizar la descripción del trabajo (Resolución 2025-10).
F. Considerar cambiar el título de oficial superior de policía a cabo de policía y actualizar la descripción del trabajo (Resolución 2025-11).
G. Considerar la adopción por resolución, de políticas nuevas y enmendadas para toda la ciudad para el Manual de Políticas y Procedimientos de la Ciudad de Avenal: Guía de Creación de Contenido y Redes Sociales Oficiales de la Marca de la Ciudad; Acoso Sexual; Disciplina; Políticas de etiqueta de correo electrónico y formulario de autorización para gimnasios (Resolución 2025-12).
5. ALCALDE Y CONCEJAL / AGENCIA SUCESORA / PUNTOS A CONSIDERAR:
A. Ninguno
6. INFORMES DE ACTIVIDADES/PRESENTACIONES ESPECIALES E INFORMES DE COMITÉS:
A. Informes de actividad:
1. Reporte de Actividades del Departamento de Policía: Cecilio Velasco, Jefe de Policía.
2. Informe de Actividades de Desarrollo Comunitario: Kelsey George, Planificadora de la Ciudad por Contrato, 4Creeks.
3. Informe de Desarrollo Económico y Redacción de Subvenciones: Emily Engelsgaard, Gerente de Subvenciones, The CrisCom Company.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 3
B. Presentaciones Especiales:
a. Actualizaciones de la Comunidad por parte de - Kings County Behavioral Health
7. AUDIENCIA(S) PÚBLICA(S):
A. Ninguno
8. NEGOCIO ANTIGUO:
A. Acuerdo de SRO con RSUSD (Informativo).
9. NUEVOS NEGOCIOS:
A. Ninguno.
10. CORRESPONDENCIA/ANUNCIOS/COMENTARIOS FINALES:
Cualquier miembro del Consejo podrá solicitar que un tema se incluya en un orden del día futuro, siempre que una mayoría simple también apoye la adición de dicho punto. Queda terminantemente prohibida la discusión o acción sobre cualquier tema que no esté en el orden del día actual. Los comentarios finales están destinados a que los miembros del Consejo informen al público sobre la asistencia a cualquier evento especial e información pertinente. • Próximos y futuros puntos del orden del día a tener en cuenta. • Correspondencia/Anuncios/Información/Comentarios finales.
11. SESIÓN CERRADA: (Ciudad/Agencia Sucesora):
Es la intención de este órgano rector reunirse en sesión cerrada para revisar su posición e instruir a sus representantes designados: Cualquier persona puede dirigirse directamente al Consejo/Agencia en este momento sobre temas de interés relacionados con la Sesión Cerrada.
A. Amenaza a Servicios o Instalaciones Públicas § 54957(a)).
Consulta con el Jefe de Policía.
B. Conferencia con el (los) Negociador(es) de Bienes Raíces (Código de Gobierno § 54956.8).
Es la intención de este órgano rector reunirse en sesión cerrada para consultar con su(s) negociador(es) de bienes inmuebles con respecto a la compra, venta, intercambio o arrendamiento de bienes inmuebles por o para esta agencia de la siguiente manera:
1. Descripción de la propiedad: APN: 040-320-009-000; y 040-320-014-000 Negociador(es): Administrador de la Ciudad/Abogado de la Ciudad.
Parte con la que se negocia: Empresa CrisCom. Instrucciones al negociador relativas a: Condiciones de pago.
12. APLAZAMIENTO:
1) En cumplimiento con la Ley de Estadounidenses con Discapacidades, si necesita asistencia especial para participar en esta reunión, comuníquese con la Oficina del Secretario Municipal (559) 386-5766. Teatro y Centro de Eventos Avenal, 233 East Kings Street Avenal, CA 93204. La notificación 48 horas antes de la reunión permitirá a la ciudad hacer arreglos razonables para garantizar la accesibilidad a esta reunión [28 CFR 35.02.35.1044 AA Título II].
2) Los materiales relacionados con un punto de esta Agenda presentados al [Concejo/Autoridad] después de la distribución del paquete de la agenda están disponibles para inspección pública en la oficina [de los Secretarios Municipales] en 919 Skyline Blvd., Avenal, CA 93204 durante el horario comercial normal.
Certifico que esta Agenda del taller del Concejo Municipal de la Ciudad de Avenal se publicará en los siguientes lugares: 1) Cámaras del Concejo Municipal, Teatro Avenal 233 E. Kings St.; 2) Ayuntamiento 919 Skyline Blvd.; 3) Madera Avenal, 600 Skyline Blvd.; y 4) T&T Market, 801 Skyline Blvd. Avenal CA 93204 el 20 de enero de 2025.
__ /s/ María Ortiz
María Ortiz, Secretaria Municipal
January 23, 2025 Pg. 4
CITY OF AVENAL
“Pistachio Capital of the World®”
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL/SUCCESSOR AGENCY/PFA MEETING
JANUARY 10, 2025, 5:15 P.M.
AVENAL THEATER & EVENT CENTER, 233 E. KINGS ST., AVENAL, CA VIA ZOOM VIDEO/WEB CONFERENCING:
Web Link: bit.ly/AvenalCouncil or use https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87243440488 Or by calling +1 669 900 6833 and use meeting ID 872 4344 0488 to join.
MINUTES
CALL TO ORDER & PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: by Mayor Preciado at 5:15 p.m.
A. Moment of Silence led by Mayor Preciado in remembrance of:
Carole Sarian, President of Public Affairs, the CrisCom Company Brian J. Skaggs, City Engineer, Summers Engineering
Edna Ivans, pharmacist and long-time Avenal resident
ROLL CALL: Councilman, Ricardo Verdugo, Pablo Hernandez, Mayor Alvaro Preciado.
ABSENT: Councilman Lou Gravelle, Mayor Pro Tem Alejandro Ramirez STAFF: Lopez, Ortiz, Price, Bermudez, Davis, Velasco, Naranjo, Curiel. Verdugo.
LEGAL COUNSEL: Moses Diaz.
CITY CLERK:
Government Code Section 54952.3: The members of the City Council/Successor Agency are entitled to receive a total of $450.00 per month because of being elected to the City Council. They receive no other compensation for sitting as a member of Successor Agency.
PUBLIC COMMENT/ANNOUNCEMENTS & UNSCHEDULED APPEARANCES:
City Clerk Maria Ortiz reported that no comment cards had been submitted. However, the opportunity was provided for the public to approach the podium and provide comments.
Steve Henry, a resident of Avenal, addressed concerns regarding the ongoing issue of illegal fireworks in the community.
While acknowledging the efforts of the Avenal Police Department, he requested additional support in addressing the problem. He also raised concerns about the KART bus navigating the stop near the post office.
City Manager Antony Lopez shared a notice regarding the passing of Brian Skaggs, a city engineer from Summer’s Engineering, and extended an invitation to staff to attend the funeral service. Additionally, he announced that on Monday, January 13, 2025, the City of Avenal would receive a donation for the Department of Recreation from Avenal State Prison and encouraged staff to attend.
Comments closed 5:26pm by Mayor Preciado.
CONSENT \CALENDAR:
All items listed under the consent calendar are routine or for approval only and are enacted by one motion: (Action).
A. Consider City of Avenal/Successor Agency’s Approval of Minutes for October 24, 2024.
B. Consider Cash and Financial Statements, Check Register (May 2024 – October 2024).
C. Ratify Change Order Approve Change Order No. 5 to the Contract with Kuykendall Solar for the construction of a Solar PV System at the WWTF, Resolution 2025-01.
D. Consider Resolution 2025-02 to Retroactively Amend the Title of Robert Nevarez from Interim Chief of Police to Full Chief of Police for the Service Period of July 25, 2022 - February 12, 2024 – City Manager AGENDA ITEM NO. 4. – A.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 5
Joint Meeting City Council/Successor Agency/PFA – January 9, 2025
E. Consider Resolution 2025-03, ratifying the City Manager Entering into an Agreement with Self-Help Enterprises for Loan Portfolio Management.
F. Consider Resolution 2025-04, Authorizing the City Manager to Enter into an Agreement with Central Valley Receivables for City Debt Collection Services.
G. Consider Resolution 2025-05, Accepting and Adopting the Fiscal Year 2021-2022 Audit.
RESOLUTION 2025-01: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AVENAL APPROVING CHANGE ORDER NO. 4 IN THE AMOUNT OF $90,750 TO KUKENDALL SOLAR’S CONTRACT FOR THE
CONSTRUCTION OF THE SOLAR PV SYSTEM AT THE WWTF AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE CHANGE ORDER ON BEHALF OF THE CITY. Council Member/Successor Agency Member Preciado motioned to approve Consent Calendar, seconded by Councilman/Successor Agency Member Hernandez, and motion carried.
RESOLUTION 2025-02: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AVENAL
RETROACTIVELY AMENDING THE TITLE OF ROBERT NEVAREZ FROM INTERIM CHIEF OF POLICE, RECOGNIZING HIS SERVICE FROM JULY 25, 2022, TO FEBRUARY 12, 2024, AND ACKNOWLEDGING HIS CONTINUED ROLE AS ASSISTANT CHIEF OF POLICE/PUBLIC SAFETY MANAGER. Council Member/Successor Agency Member Preciado motioned to approve Consent Calendar, seconded by Councilman/Successor Agency Member Hernandez, and motion carried.
RESOLUTION 2025-03: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITYCOUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AVENAL
RETROACTIVELY APPROVING THE AGREEMENT WITH SELF-HELP ENTERPRISES FOR LOAN PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT SERVICES. Council Member/Successor Agency Member Preciado motioned to approve Consent Calendar, seconded by Councilman/Successor Agency Member Hernandez, and motion carried.
RESOLUTION 2025-04: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AVENAL
AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT WITH CENTRAL VALLEY RECEIVABLES FOR DEBT COLLECTION SERVICES. Council Member/Successor Agency Member Preciado motioned to approve Consent Calendar, seconded by Councilman/Successor Agency Member Hernandez, and motion carried.
RESOLUTION 2025-05: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AVENAL RATIFYING AND FORMALLY ACCEPTING THE FISCAL YEAR 2021-2022 AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS. Council Member/Successor Agency Member Preciado motioned to approve Consent Calendar, seconded by Councilman/Successor Agency Member Hernandez, and motion carried.
ROLL CALL VOTE:
AYES: Verdugo, Hernandez, Preciado.
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Gravelle, Ramirez.
ABSTAIN: None.
MAYOR & COUNCIL MEMBERS/ SUCCESSOR AGENCY/ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION:
A. Consider Resolution Accepting November 5, 2024, Election Results: Resolution 2025-06.
Resolution 2025-06: Adoption of resolution declaring the results of recent municipal election, including members of the City Council and on retail transactions and use tax ordinance and cannabis tax ordinance.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 6
Joint Meeting City Council/Successor Agency/PFA – January 9, 2025
Council Member/Successor Agency Verdugo motioned to approve Resolution 2025-06, seconded by Councilman/Successor Agency Member Hernandez, and motion carried.
ROLL CALL VOTE:
AYES: Verdugo, Hernandez, Preciado.
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Gravelle, Ramirez.
ABSTAIN: None.
B. Administer Oath of Office to Re-Elected City Council Members: Maria Ortiz, City Clerk.
The City Council welcomed two new council members: Gamez and Reynosa. City Council also welcomed back re-elected Council Member Verdugo. Each was sworn in by City Clerk, Maria Ortiz.
1. City Clerk Opens Nominations for Mayor: Maria Ortiz, City Clerk.
Council Member/Successor Agency Hernandez motioned to nominate Council Member/Successor Agency Member Preciado for Mayor, seconded by Council Member/Successor Agency Member Gamez, and motion to close nominations by Council Member/Successor Agency Member Gamez, seconded by Council Member/Successor Agency Member Verdugo and motion carried.
2. Mayor Opens Nominations for Mayor Pro-Tem.
Council Member/Successor Agency Hernandez motioned to nominate Council Member/Successor Agency Member Gamez, seconded also by Council Member/Successor Agency Member Gamez and Council Member/Successor Agency Verdugo motioned to nominate himself. Motion to close nominations by Council Member/Successor Agency Member Preciado, seconded by Councilman/Successor Agency Member Hernandez.
ROLL CALL VOTE FOR COUNCIL MEMBER GAMEZ:
AYES: Gamez, Reynosa, Hernandez, Preciado.
NOES: Verdugo.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
Majority votes for Council Member/Successor Agency Gamez for Mayor Pro Tem
3. Review and Renew/Amend Board Assignments and Appointments (Mayor Preciado) City Manager Antony Lopez shared sheet of current Special Board Appointments. Discussion over the importance of participating in the boards displayed in Exhibit A. to represent and advocate for the community; Mayor Preciado’s involvement in all the boards was also discussed. Due to discussion of time commitments, Mayor Preciado remains as the main member of current boards he is already on. Council Member/Successor Agency Member Verdugo motioned to nominate himself as primary member for Kings County Commission on Aging Council and as an alternate on 4 boards (KCAG, KART, Kings County Abandoned Vehicle Abatement Service Authority, Kings County Association of Governments Technical Advisory Committee) seconded by Council Member/Successor Agency Member Gamez and motion carried.
Council Member/Successor Agency Verdugo motioned to nominate himself, seconded by Council Member/Successor Agency Member Gamez and motion carried.
ROLL CALL VOTE:
AYES: Mayor Pro Tem Gamez, Reynosa, Verdugo, Hernandez, Preciado.
NOES: None.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 7
Joint Meeting City Council/Successor Agency/PFA – January 9, 2025
ACTIVITY REPORTS/SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS& COMMITTEE REPORTS:
A. Activity Reports:
1. Public Works/Code Enforcement/Animal Control Departments Activity Report: Scott Davis, Public Works Supervisor.
Scott Davis, Public Works Supervisor, delivered report as presented and shared the following:
Code Enforcement: Ongoing property abatements, graffiti removal, and addressing illegal vendors/home kitchens with flexible scheduling.
Parks & Landscape: Regular maintenance at city parks and landscaped areas.
Animal Control: Successful spay/neuter program, 55 dogs rescued in November/December, and $12,000 raised in a December fundraiser.
Streets: Street maintenance ongoing; pothole repairs increased due to recent rain.
Water Distribution: Three leaks repaired in November; no leaks in December.
Wastewater Collections: Overflow calls addressed; sewer line project completed for Community Center and PW Yard.
Maintenance: City property and vehicles maintained; roofing projects for Vets Hall and Safety Center progressing, completion expected mid-January.
Council Member Verdugo asked about many rooster calls but has not seen any picked up and Scott responded he did not have that on his reports so he cannot answer that question. City Manager stated Animal Control can provide more of a narrative. Council Member Hernandez asked about dogs picked up from street and Scott responded that information is on the report and it is highlighted by Animal Control.
Mayor Pro Tem Gamez asked about euthanizing animals and Scotts responded Animal Control does not euthanize. Mayor Preciado asked about sewer line connection to community center and easements. Scott responded it is already connected to Public Works building and there was no problem with easements. a. City Engineer’s Activity Report: Javier Andrade –A&M Consulting Engineers Our City Engineer Javier Andrade, delivered report as presented and shared the following:
Avenal PD/Veterans Memorial Re-roof Project: 90% complete, expected to finish by the end of January.
Kids Pocket Park: Construction ongoing; playground footings being poured, completion by the end of February.
Community Garden Restrooms: Structure complete, awaiting cabinetry.
Community Center: Construction bids open January 23, with work starting in February. 2025 Citywide Road Rehab Project: Town hall scheduled for late January; focuses include roadway safety, walkability, and road maintenance.
Grant Applications: Updates include awards for CMAQ ($3.5M for 7th Avenue reconstruction), CRP ($600K for Park and San Joaquin), and a Vision Zero Plan under SS4A. Additional applications submitted for roadway safety, bike lanes, and water system improvements, with announcements expected in February.
Mayor Preciado inquired about ADA accessibility for new park and Javier states it has a rubber surface for fall safety which allows to roll onto playground with wheelchair. Mayor Preciado also asked about how its connected to the Wonderful Park and Javier stated it is connected. Concern on steep way into street is addressed by Javier, stated he will take into January 23, 2025 Pg. 8
Joint Meeting City Council/Successor Agency/PFA – January 9, 2025
consideration and work with what we have. Mayor Preciado said now is the time to advocate to a change and better connectivity with both parks and a locking device is needed as that is one of his safety concerns. Javier finished speaking on conducting a study for Tactical Urbanism Grant application.
2. IT Department Activity Report: Humberto Bermudez, IT Director.
IT Director, Humberto Bermudez, delivered report as presented and shared the following:
Internet and Phone: Progress on improving connectivity with Spectrum Enterprise and Cal.Net, and implementation of Verizon phone solutions.
Email and Website: Transitioning to .gov email aliases; website redesign introductory meeting scheduled for January 16.
Services: Deployed OpenGov POS for utility bill payments; performed security maintenance and monitored service outages in December.
Digital Signs: Installed a digital sign at Kings/Skyline and ongoing construction for sign at Elliot Park.
Other Projects: Supporting public communication policies, holiday events, audio system upgrades, and new printer lease options.
Council Member Verdugo inquired about the new digital sign and its connection, to which Humberto explained that it operates remotely. Council Member Verdugo also raised concerns about the speed sign issue and Cal.net's role; Humberto clarified that Cal.net has talked about constructing a 70-foot radio tower to provide internet to the city and assured the speed sign issue would be addressed. Mayor Preciado requested an update on the projector at the theatre, and Humberto stated that the outdated projectors are discontinued, and efforts to service them, including outreach as far as Glendale, are ongoing, though repair or replacement will be costly. Mayor Preciado also mentioned the clock near Family Dollar, suggesting it should be restored, and Humberto confirmed it is on his list to address.
4. Recreation Department Activity Report: Sheila Verdugo, Community Activities Supervisor.
Community Activities Supervisor, Sheila Verdugo, , delivered report as presented and shared the following:
Holiday Magic Parade (Dec 14): Featured 16 parade entries, musical performances, tree lighting, and free hot chocolate.
Over 200 attendees enjoyed movies at the theater afterward.
Santa on Patrol (Dec 19–20): Staff supported Santa in spreading holiday cheer by distributing gifts to children.
Santa Pictures and Toy Giveaway (Dec 21): Served 110 children; Avenal Youth Cheer raised funds by selling snacks.
Clean, Organize, Inventory (Jan 1–31): Ongoing reorganization of city facilities and storage areas, with potential extension into February.
Staff plans to resume community outreach meetings with RSUSD Family Engagement Center in February.
Mayor Preciado thanked the City Manager for efforts in organizing the toy distribution, using the city truck for the ARIA event, and hosting the wrapping party, as well as ARIA for their donation. Mayor Preciado also expressed gratitude to Lemoore's administration for helping wrap presents and acknowledged the Santa on Patrol volunteers and everyone who contributed to these efforts.
PUBLIC HEARING(s):
Joint Hearing of the City of Avenal Successor Agency RDA Trust Obligations Fund/Public Finance Authority:
A. None
OLD BUSINESS:
January 23, 2025 Pg. 9
Joint Meeting City Council/Successor Agency/PFA – January 9, 2025
A. Consider Approving SRO Agreement with RSUSD (Resolution 2024-4X) (Discussion/Action).
City Manager Antony Lopez stated he had conversation with Superintendent Ruiz and discussed importance of collaboration between the district and city in terms of safety. He also reported on-going negotiation about SRO Agreement requesting to table item until Superintendent brings it up to new school board. Mayor Preciado made a comment about the importance of having our own SRO for after school hour issues.
Mayor Preciado motioned to table and motion carried.
NEW BUSINESS:
A. Consider Entering Into an Equipment Services Agreement with Image2000 for Leasing of Office Equipment (printers) – IT Manager (Discussion/Action) (Resolution 2025-07).
The IT Director, Humberto Bermudez, presented a report recommending a new 60-month lease agreement with Image2000 for three new copier machines. The current lease with C.A. Redding has expired, and the primary City Hall printer is nearing the end of its service life, requiring frequent maintenance with parts becoming scarce. Image2000 was identified as the best option based on price and performance, with an estimated monthly cost savings of approximately $220. This lease will support increased workload demands, including utility billing services being brought back inhouse. Council approval is sought to authorize the City Manager to finalize the lease agreement.
RESOLUTION 2025-07: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AVENAL AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A LEASE AGREEMENT WITH IMAGE 2000FOR NEW PRINTER/COPIER EQUIPMENT. Council Member/Successor Agency Verdugo motioned to approve, Council Member/Successor Agency Member Gamez seconded, and motion carried.
Council Member/Successor Agency Verdugo motioned to approve, Council Member/Successor Agency Member Gamez seconded, and motion carried.
ROLL CALL VOTE:
AYES: Mayor Pro Tem Gamez, Verdugo, Reynosa, Hernandez, Preciado.
NOES: None.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None
B. Consider Approving the Recognized Obligation Payment Schedule FY 25-26 for July 2025 through June 2026 (Resolution 2025-08_).
City manager presented on two outstanding bonds the city has, one for curb, streets & gutter and the other for water and wastewater treatment plant. A schedule is needed per state and county requirements no later than January 22nd, 2025. City Attorney stated we may be able to approve with previous reported numbers and then ratify when the final numbers are acquired.
RESOLUTION 2025-08: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AVENAL (SUCCESSOR AGENCY) APPROVING A RECOGNIZED PAYMENT SCHEDULE (ROPS) PURSUANT TO AB X1 26, FOR JULY 2025 THROUGH JUNE 2026. Council Member/Successor Agency Gamez motioned to approve, Council Member/Successor Agency Member Verdugo seconded and motion carried.
Council Member/Successor Agency Gamez motioned to approve, Council Member/Successor Agency Member Verdugo seconded and motion carried.
ROLL CALL VOTE:
AYES: Mayor Pro Tem Gamez, Reynosa, Verdugo, Hernandez, Preciado.
NOES: None.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 10
Joint Meeting City Council/Successor Agency/PFA – January 9, 2025
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None
CORRESPONDENCE/ANNOUNCEMENTS/CLOSING COMMENTS:
Any Council member may request an item be placed on a future agenda, provided that a simple majority also support adding said item. Discussion or action on any item not on the current agenda is strictly prohibited. Closing comments are intended for Council members to report attendance of any special events and pertinent information back to the public.
• Upcoming/Future Agenda Items to Consider.
• Correspondence/Announcements/Information/Closing Comments.
City Clerk, Maria Ortiz, shared that 700 tax forms are available online and need to be filled out by April 1st. City Manager, Antony Lopez, congratulated new council members and shared there will be required trainings coming up and new technology will be distributed. Mayor Pro Tem Gamez stated she is happy to be on council. Council Member Reynosa is excited to work with everyone. Council Member Hernandez is hopeful that everyone will work together for the best of the city. Council Member Verdugo also welcomed new council members and thanked volunteers for helping on Santa on Patrol.
Mayor Preciado thanked the public and staff for attending first city council meeting of the year and welcomes comments and concerns. He also congratulates new council members.
The City Council went into Closed Session at 7:55 p.m.
CLOSED SESSION: (City/Successor Agency):
It is the intent of this governing body to meet in closed session to review its position and to instruct its designated representatives: Any person may directly address the Council/Agency at this time on items of interest regarding Closed Session.
A. Personnel (Government Code §54957(b)).
Consider Public Employee Performance Evaluation for the Position of:
• City Manager
B. Conference with Real Property Negotiator(s) (Government Code § 54956.8).
It is the intent of this governing body to meet in Closed Session to confer with its real property negotiator(s) concerning the purchase, sale, exchange, or lease of real property by or for this agency as follows:
1. Property Description: APN: 040-320-009-000; & 040-320-014-000 Negotiator(s): City Manager/City Attorney.
Party with whom negotiating: CrisCom Company. Instructions to negotiator concerning: Terms of Payment.
Mayor Preciado reopened meeting at 10:19 p.m. with nothing to report.
ADJOURNMENT: Meeting was adjourned at 10:19pm
Respectfully submitted,
__ /s/ Karla Curiel
Karla Curiel, Deputy City Clerk
January 23, 2025 Pg. 11
Commissioner - At Large: Representative: Address Phone Email Original Appt Date Term End Date Tyler Naranjo Commissioner At Large 605 N. Ave (559) 209-0363 [email protected] 1/27/22 1/27/26 Amado Cervantez Commissioner At Large 217 E. Merced St (559) 707-1241 [email protected] 1/27/22 1/27/26 Sergio Ramirez Commissioner At Large (805) 296-2286 [email protected] 10/3/22 10/2/26 Jose Barrera Commissioner At Large 11/6/23
Rosa Sierra Commissioner At Large 11/6/23
Ex Oficio Members:
Mayor Alvaro Preciado Mayor (559) 381-3347 [email protected] Brian Skaggs City Engineer (559) 582-9237 [email protected] Rob Williams Public Works Director - Alternate (559) 816-9098 [email protected] Staff:
Kelsey George, 4Creeks Consultant
Maria "Angie" Ortiz City Clerk (559) 386-5782 [email protected] Order of Appointments:
Mayor First Appiontment
Mayor Pro tem Second Appiontment
Councilmember (Seniority) Third Appiontment
Councilmember (Order of Seniority) Fourth Appiontment
Councilmember (Order of Seniority) Fifth Appiontment
Board Member - At Large: Representative: Address Phone Email Original Appt Date Term End Date Jose Saldana Board Member 500 Alpine #5106 (559) 369-4263 [email protected] 12/31/21 12/31/24 Salvador Arias Board Member 517 E. Monterey (559) 381-7429 [email protected] 12/31/21 12/31/24 Susie Chastain Board Member 821 Skyline (559) 386-5141 [email protected] 12/31/21 12/31/24 Ex Oficio Members:
Mayor Alvaro Preciado Mayor 800 Kern (559) 381-3347 [email protected] Staff:
Antony Lopez City Manager 919 Skylline Blvd. (559) 386 -5776 [email protected] Grieselda Price Treasure 919 Skylline Blvd. (559) 386 -5776 [email protected] Maria "Angie" Ortiz Secretary/City Clerk 919 Skylline Blvd. (559) 386-5782 [email protected] Maria Contreras ADH Custodian of Records 317 Alpine (559) 386-2211 Commissioner - At Large: Representative: Address Phone Email Original Appt Date Term End Date Susie Chastain Board Member 821 Skyline (559) 386-5141 [email protected] Mayor Alvaro Preciado Mayor 800 Kern (559) 381-3347 [email protected] Maria Contreras ADH Custodian of Records 317 Alpine (559) 386-2211 [email protected] Slavador Arias Alternate Board Member 517 E. Monterey (559) 381-7429 [email protected] Ex Oficio Members:
Staff:
Antony Lopez City Manager 919 Skylline Blvd. (559) 386 -5776 [email protected] Grieselda Price Treasure 919 Skylline Blvd. (559) 386 -5776 [email protected] Maria "Angie" Ortiz Secretary/City Clerk 919 Skylline Blvd. (559) 386-5782 [email protected] 4 - Year Term
Planning Commission 2022 4 - Year Term
Avenal Hospital/Health Care District (AHD) 4 - Year Term City of Avenal Operating Authority (CAOA)
January 23, 2025 Pg. 12
DRAFT EXHIBIT A
SPECIAL BOARD APPIONTMENTS 2025
STATEMENT OF FACT BY PUBLIC AGENCY
BOARD PRIMARY ALTERNATE
MEETING
DATES TIME LOCATION
City of Avenal Opearting
Authority Alvaro Preciado none Quarterly 3:30 p.m. Avenal Theater & Event Center - 233 E Kings St. Avenal, CA 93024 Kings County Area Public
Transit Agency (KCKART) Alvaro Preciado Alex Ramirez 4th Wednesday 3:30 p.m. Kings County BOS Chambers Hanford King County Association of
Government (KCAG) Alvaro Preciado Alex Ramirez 4th Wednesday 4:30 p.m. Kings County BOS Chambers Hanford Agency Fomation Commission
(LAFCO) Alvaro Preciado none 2nd Tuesday 9:00 a.m.
Board of Supervisors Chambers Kings
County Government Center 1400 W. Lacey
Blvd., Hanford, CA
Kings County Aboonded
Vehicle Abatement Service
Authority (CRCAVASA)
Alvaro Preciado Alex Ramirez Quarterly
Immediately following
ajoourment of the
KCAG Commission -
3:00 p.m.
Board of Supervisors Chambers Kings
County Government Center 1400 W. Lacey
Blvd., Hanford, CA
Kings County Association of
Governments Technical
Advisory Committee
Alvaro Preciado none 2nd Wednesday 1:30 p.m.
Kings County Association of Governments
339 W. D Street, Suite B
Lemoore, CA 93
San Joaquin Water Infastructure
Authority Western City
(SJVIA)
Alvaro Preciado none Files coming soon Files coming soon Fresno Irrigation District Office, 2907 S Maple Ave, Fresno, California 93725
San Joaquin Valley Air Control
District -Special Selection
Committee
Alvaro Preciado none 2nd Thursday 10:00 a.m.
Central Region Office 1990 East Gettysburg
Avenue Fresno, CA 93726-0244 (559) 230-
6000 • FAX (559) 230-6061
South San Joaquin Valley
Regional Public Alvaro Preciado none First Thursday, each month 6:00 p.m. 405 East El Montr Way, Dinuba CA 93618 Kings County Commission on
Aging Council Pablo Hernandez none 3rd Thursday every month 2:00 p.m.. Commission on Aging Senior Center -Armona Citizens Advisory Committee
for HE Avenal State Prison
(ASP)
Antony V. Lopez Darlene Quarterly 3:30 p.m. City Hall 919 Skyline Blvd. Avenal, CA 93204
Fresno Irregation District Alvaro Preciado none 2nd Thursday 3:00 p.m. 2907 S Maple Ave - Fresno CA 93725 San Joaquin Valley Air
Governing Board Alvaro Preciado none 3rd Thursday every month 9:00 A.M The Central Region Office, Governing Board
Room, 1990 E. Gettysburg Avenue, Fresno,
CA.
Planning Advisory Committee Alvaro Preciado none
January 23, 2025 Pg. 13
City of Avenal
919 Skyline Blvd.
Avenal, CA 93204
Phone: (559) 386-5766
Fax: (559) 386-0629
AGENDA ITEM NO. 4. B
TO: The Honorable Mayor and City Council
FROM: Antony V. López, City Manager
DATE: January 23, 2025
RE: Ratifying the Recognized Obligation Payment Schedule 25-26 for July 2025 through June 2026
At the previous January 9, 2025 meeting, the Council approved City Staff to finalize the 2025- 2026 ROPS, pending final numbers from the City’s financial consultants at Price Paige & Company. The total request is $482,748. Attached is the final ROPS as approved by the County Oversight Board on January 22, 2025. Below is the previous staff report for information only, to accompany the ratifying City Resolution 2025-08/ Successor Agency Resolution 2025-01.
INFORMATION:
The ROPS consists of the obligations of the Successor Agency as of July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026, and a projected debt obligation schedule.
The ROPS is identical to previous ROPS however it is for the entire fiscal year and the debt obligation has been updated for the fiscal 25/26 year. Staff has included: the Annual Continuing Disclosure Reports; Bond Administration Fees, Prior Period Adjustments (PPA); Administration costs, and, debt obligation.
In total, the Successor Agency (City) is requesting $__$482,748__ of Redevelopment Property Tax Trust Fund (RPTTF) be used and make payment of the Successor Agency’s enforceable obligations in 2025-26. These obligations, as well as the Successor Agency wind-down, are expected to continue until August 2026, when the 2005 RDA Revenue Bonds are paid off.
The ROPS is subject to approval by the Kings County Oversight Board. Once approved by the Oversight Board, copies of said resolution and ROPS will be sent to the County AuditorController and the State Department of Finance for approval. The ROPS is due no later than January 22, 2025.
RECOMMENDATION:
By Resolution, adopt the Recognized Obligation Payment Schedule for July 1, 2025 - June 30, 2026.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 14
January 23, 2025 Pg. 15
January 23, 2025 Pg. 16
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Expenditure Category Funding Source Amount
Salary & Benefits RPTTF $ 20,000.00
Legal Counsel RPTTF $ 2,000.00
Consultant RPTTF $ 7,500.00
Auditor RPTTF $ 4,000.00
Banking RPTTF $ 2,500.00
TOTAL $ 36,000.00
Successor Agency to the Dissolved Redevelopment Agency of the City of Aveal Administrative Budget
Fiscal Year 2024-2025 (July 1,2024 to June 30, 2025)
Banking Services/Administration Fees
Administrative Costs
Administration
Legal Services
Consultant Services
Auditor Services/Auditing Fees
January 23, 2025 Pg. 22
Memorandum
TO: The Honorable Mayor and City Council members
From: Antony V. Lopez, City Manager
Prepared by: Ronald Brumley
Date: January 16,2025
RE: Approve Expenditure for Repair to Main Pump #1 - Plant #1 Information:
Due to normal wear and tear main pump #1 plant #1 has been sent in for inspection. It was leaking water from the main seal, vibrating and not pumping efficiently. Main pump #1 was only producing approximately 350 gallons per minute, a rebuilt pump can pump up to 700 gallons per minute. This was limiting our plant production capacity and costing the City more in electricity due to the poor efficiency.
We received three quotes to repair the pump:
Shar-Craft Incorporated (SCI) $41,217.33
SCLR Well Services $50,999.68
RKE Services $49,683.33
Recommendation:
By motion approve expenditure of $34,867.33 to SCI for parts and labor needed to repair main pump #1.
Fiscal Impact:
Transfer $34,867.33 from Water Treatment Equipment budget. $6,350 was already paid for the pick up, breakdown and inspection of the pump. #34,867.33 is the remaining balance of the pump.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 23
January 23, 2025 Pg. 24
January 23, 2025 Pg. 25
January 23, 2025 Pg. 26
January 23, 2025 Pg. 27
City of Avenal
919 Skyline Blvd.
Avenal, CA 93204
Phone: (559) 386-5766
AGENDA ITEM NO. 4 – D
TO: The Honorable Mayor and City Council
FROM: Antony V. López, City Manager, by
Cecilio Velasco, Chief of Police
DATE: January 23, 2025
RE: Consider Transitioning the Property and Evidence Officer Position from Part-Time to Full-Time within the Avenal Police Department INFORMATION:
Following a strategic review of the Avenal Police Department's operational needs, it has been identified that transitioning the current part-time Property and Evidence Officer position to a full-time role is essential for the department’s continued success. This action will address immediate demands, ensure the integrity of our evidence management processes, and strengthen the department’s ability to meet current and future operational requirements. The Property and Evidence Officer was previously created as a part-position on March 28, 2024 per Resolution 2024-16.
The Property and Evidence Officer position plays a critical role in maintaining the chain of custody for evidence and ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations. Transitioning this position to fulltime will not only enhance the department’s capacity to manage evidence effectively but will also provide critical support to the new Detective Unit being established this year. In this expanded role, the Property and Evidence Officer will also serve as a technician in the field, assisting with evidence cataloging and collection. This additional responsibility will ensure the proper handling and preservation of evidence and will contribute significantly to the success of the Detective Unit’s operations. The officer will receive specialized training to fulfill these duties effectively.
Funding for this transition will be allocated from existing personnel funds, leveraging savings from vacancies in the current fiscal year. This fiscally responsible approach ensures that the department can support the full-time role without additional financial strain. Staff will make any necessary adjustments in the next Fiscal Year budget to account for this transition.
Given the critical nature of the Property and Evidence Officer's responsibilities and their expanded role in supporting field operations and the new Detective Unit, it is recommended that the City Council approve the transition of the position from part-time to full-time, effective immediately. This decision reflects the department’s commitment to maintaining high operational standards and ensuring the continued effectiveness of its evidence management processes and investigative capabilities.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends, by Resolution, the approval of transitioning the Property and Evidence Officer position within the Avenal Police Department from part-time to full-time, effective immediately.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Police Department- Utilize existing funds in the Personnel Budget for FY 2024/2026, and budget accordingly for FY 2025/2026.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 28
City of Avenal
919 Skyline Blvd.
Avenal, CA 93204
Phone: (559) 386-5766
Fax: (559) 386-0629
ALL FULL-TIME EMPLOYEES ARE REQUIRED TO HAVE A VALID CONTACT TELEPHONE.
EMPLOYEES SHALL WORK HARMONIOUSLY WITH ALL CITY EMPLOYEES.
THE CITY OF AVENAL IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Revised 01/23/2025
PROPERTY & EVIDENCE OFFICER
SALARY RANGE: D $19.44- $23.63 per hour| Non-Exempt | Full-Time UNDER DIRECTION OF: Sergeant, Police Commander; Chief of Police GENERAL DESCRIPTION & RESPONSIBILITIES:
Provide the Police Department with an accounting of all property and/or evidence seized or obtained in the course of investigations. Assures a secure chain of custody by storage of such property and evidence. Acts as the department’s sole trustee for property and evidence retained. Maintains necessary logs and positive control of all items. Responsible for the return to owners of seized property or evidence as is authorized, and the destruction of evidence, in accordance with State and Federal law. The Property and Evidence Officer will also serve as a field technician to support investigative units by assisting in evidence collection, cataloging, and processing at crime scenes. This role includes working directly with detectives to ensure evidence integrity from the point of collection to storage and disposition.
EXAMPLE OF DUTIES: Duties include but are not limited to those described below. Reasonable accommodations will be made when requested and determine by the city to be appropriated under applicable laws. • Plans and organizes the daily routine of the Property and Evidence section by availability and pending investigations, etc.
• Accepts property and evidence.
• Assures proper protection of property and evidence, receives items, and prepares inventories, logs into system. • Provides similar services to the sheriff, highway patrol and other agencies • Prepares material for storage, identifies storage locations, stores and secures property and evidence. • Maintains chain of evidence and all records pertaining to retained property and evidence. • Controls access to property and evidence, maintains security logs, checks material out exclusively to those with a “need to know” and within established guidelines.
• Prepares evidence and property items for destruction. • Gathers items for destruction, researches requirements for destruction of individual items. • Prepares evidence and property items for destruction and destroys these materials after obtaining a court order for destruction.
• Provides court testimony as required.
• Requests court orders for distribution of retained property. • Moves secured storage from and to a variety of City locations, lifting and transporting a variety of stored materials. • Duplicate photographs and other documents needed as evidence. • Makes copies of available reports and other documents for citizen customers. • Interface with local and other law enforcement agencies and courts concerning location of evidence and property. • Interacts with agencies concerning management of the property and evidence facility. • Responds to inquiries from the public concerning property • Orders supplies for property and evidence to assure appropriate levels of stock. • Creates evidence forms.
• Prepare forms, reports, logs, correspondence and other documents, as required. • Prepares and maintains files of the Property & Evidence unit.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 29
City of Avenal
919 Skyline Blvd.
Avenal, CA 93204
Phone: (559) 386-5766
Fax: (559) 386-0629
ALL FULL-TIME EMPLOYEES ARE REQUIRED TO HAVE A VALID CONTACT TELEPHONE.
EMPLOYEES SHALL WORK HARMONIOUSLY WITH ALL CITY EMPLOYEES.
THE CITY OF AVENAL IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Revised 01/23/2025
• Assists detectives at crime scenes by identifying, collecting, and cataloging evidence in accordance with established procedures and chain-of-custody requirements. • Utilizes evidence collection tools and techniques, including photography, latent fingerprint processing, and evidence packaging.
• Documents and logs collected evidence in real time at crime scenes, ensuring accuracy and compliance with legal and procedural standards.
• Ensures proper handling and transportation of evidence from crime scenes to secure storage facilities. • Maintains an inventory of evidence collection supplies and prepares kits for use in the field. • Participates in training programs to remain current on advanced techniques in evidence collection and preservation.
• Provides technical assistance to detectives during investigations, including scene documentation and evidencerelated logistics. • Performs a variety of other duties as assigned.
DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS:
Knowledge of:
• Principles and practices of Personal Computers and related software. • Correct use of oral and written English, spelling punctuation and composition. • Record keeping methods
• Principles and practices of proper evidentiary storage, identification and retrieval. • Operation of standard office equipment.
• Practices and techniques of inventory, record keeping, and security measures • Basic police terminology and evidentiary terminology. • Principles and practices of crime scene processing, including evidence identification, collection, packaging, and preservation.
• Tools and techniques used in evidence collection, such as fingerprint lifting, photography, and material analysis.
Skilled in:
• Reading, interpreting and applying procedures and policies. • Performing detailed work.
• Operating standard office equipment.
• Compliance with state and federal rules, procedures and regulations. • Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships. • Applying evidence collection techniques in various environmental and situational conditions. • Preparing detailed and accurate documentation of evidence for use in investigations and court proceedings.
Ability to:
• Operate a PC and related software
• Maintain effective working relationships
• Wear standardized apparel.
• Function within a structured “chain-of-command” environment. • Communicate in oral and written English.
• Read, understand interpret and apply applicable law, procedures, and regulations. • Apply principles, practices, techniques and equipment used in the handling and custody of property and evidence.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 30
City of Avenal
919 Skyline Blvd.
Avenal, CA 93204
Phone: (559) 386-5766
Fax: (559) 386-0629
ALL FULL-TIME EMPLOYEES ARE REQUIRED TO HAVE A VALID CONTACT TELEPHONE.
EMPLOYEES SHALL WORK HARMONIOUSLY WITH ALL CITY EMPLOYEES.
THE CITY OF AVENAL IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Revised 01/23/2025
• Respond to crime scenes promptly and work collaboratively with detectives to ensure evidence is collected efficiently and accurately.
• Utilize specialized tools for evidence collection, including cameras, fingerprint kits, and chemical reagents, as required by the investigation.
EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:
Any combination of education and experience that demonstrates possession of the requisite knowledge, skill and abilities. A typical way to obtain these would be:
• High School Diploma or an equivalent certificate or diploma recognized by the State of California. • Associate’s Degree or two (2) full academic years of attendance at, an accredited college or university with a major or emphasis in criminology, law enforcement/administration of justice, behavioral science or related field, preferred.
• Maintain a Certificate of Graduation from a Property and Evidence Training Course, or acquire this certificate within six (6) months of employment or appointment to the classification. • One (1) to Two (2) years experience in a property and evidence division or department with a law enforcement agency, or service as a reserve peace officer with a police or sheriff department, preferred. • One (1) year of experience in document or material security in an industrial or armed forces environment, preferred.
• Completion of a certified crime scene investigation or evidence collection training program, preferred. • Must be able to periodically work an alternate work schedule, overtime, and respond to recall when paged and physically available.
• Be Bondable
PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit. The employee frequently is required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to stand and walk. Moves record boxes and stacks and stores in small and awkward spaces. Works in confined spaces.
The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, and ability to adjust focus.
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly works in indoor conditions and regularly works near video display. The noise level in the work environment is usually minimal.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 31
BEFORE THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF AVENAL
IN THE MATTER OF:
Amending an existing Employment
Position within City Hall.
RESOLUTION 2025-_09_
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Avenal (“City”) desires to consider information and recommendations from the City Manager pursuant to Avenal Municipal Code § 2-4.108(d) pertaining to reorganization of employment positions; WHEREAS, City desires to amend an existing employment positions to assist with carrying out the lawful business of the City under the control, oversight and direction of the relevant department head(s), and it is in the best interest of the City to amend such employment positions; and
WHEREAS, it is the intent of the City Council to amend the employment position and approve the job descriptions and classifications thereof.
UPON MOTION OF COUNCIL MEMBER , SECONDED BY
COUNCIL MEMBER , THE FOLLOWING WAS PASSED,
APPROVED, AND ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL AT AN OFFICIAL MEETING HELD ON January 23, 2025, BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
ATTEST:
Alvaro Preciado, Mayor
CITY OF AVENAL
KARLA CURIEL, Deputy City Clerk
CITY OF AVENAL
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
January 23, 2025 Pg. 32
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. Found that the foregoing recitals are true;
2. Approved and adopted the one job descriptions in ATTACHMENT A; to this resolution;
3. Approved the creation of one employment position and classification within the Police Department which shall be governed by the job description in ATTACHMENT A for the Property & Evidence Officer position.
4. Unless a budget amendment is necessary, in which case it shall be added to a future Council meeting agenda, the new employment positions created by this resolution shall be considered funded under the existing City budgets for the relevant departments or special budget circumstances; and
5. Authorized the City Manager, City Clerk and all relevant City staff to carry out the terms and conditions of this resolution and to take all steps reasonably necessary, proper and/or convenient and/or incidental thereto.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
January 23, 2025 Pg. 33
City of Avenal
919 Skyline Blvd.
Avenal, CA 93204
Phone: (559) 386-5766
AGENDA ITEM NO. 4 – E
TO: The Honorable Mayor and City Council
FROM: Antony V. López, City Manager, by
Cecilio Velasco, Chief of Police
DATE: January 23, 2025
RE: Consider Replacing the Title of Police Captain to Police Commander and Update Job Description
INFORMATION:
Following a strategic review of the Avenal Police Department's organizational structure, it has been identified that changing the title of Captain to Commander and updating the associated job description will better align with the department's current needs and operational goals. This adjustment reflects modernized terminology and structural alignment commonly seen in agencies of similar size, enhancing both internal clarity and external representation of leadership roles.
The new title and revised job description aim to provide a clearer distinction in the chain of command, ensuring better communication of responsibilities to staff, city officials, and the public. The term Commander more accurately reflects the leadership responsibilities and operational oversight required for this role, particularly given the need for adaptability in a growing department.
The department will have two Commanders, and the associated cost for badges is minimal and can be absorbed into the department’s existing budget. By adopting this change, the City of Avenal demonstrates its commitment to maintaining an organized, professional structure that supports its mission of providing high-quality law enforcement services.
There will be a minimal fiscal impact associated with this change, limited to the cost of new badges or badge re-engraving for the two Commander positions, which will be absorbed into the existing Police Department budget.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends, by Resolution, the approval of changing the title of Captain to Commander, updating the associated job description, and authorizing the allotment of two Commanders within the Avenal Police Department.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Police Department- Utilize existing funds in the Personnel Budget for FY 2024/2025, and budget accordingly for FY 2025/2026.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 34
Passed and Adopted XXXXXXX
Resolution No.
CITY OF AVENAL
CLASS SPECIFICATION
Disclaimer - Class descriptions are written as a representative list of the ADA essential duties performed by the entire job classification. They cannot include, and not intended to include, every possible activity and task performed by every specific employee in every position.
JOB TITLE: POLICE COMMANDER
FLSA STATUS: Exempt
JOB PURPOSE:
Under direction, serves as the administrator of one or more divisions of the Police Department. Plans, organizes and deploys all assigned subordinate department personnel and coordinates assignments and day-to-day direction of the operational and/or administrative divisions of the department. Assigns, directs and supervises both sworn and non-sworn supervisors and line personnel in accomplishment of their tasks. Provides technical assistance and department management back-up to the Police Chief and undertakes special staff assignments and may be required to serve as Acting Chief of Police.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following:
Disclaimer- This list is meant to be representative, not exhaustive. Some incumbents may not perform all the duties listed. Other cases related duties may also be assigned. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Plans, organizes, schedules, assigns, and directs the work of the patrol, detective, and the custodial, training and administrative support activities of the department, either directly or through subordinate supervisors.
• Coordinates the various activities of the department with special assignment personnel (e.g. K-9, Detective Unit, and Field Training).
• Assures that the concept of Community Policing and Problem Oriented Policing are integrated into all activities, assignments and programs.
• Provides responsible departmental, staff and facility supervision during an assigned shift, monitors and directs police response to a variety of situations, and supervises critical situations or investigations.
• Monitors police incident and booking reports.
• Supervises and reviews performance appraisals and counseling of employees by Sergeants and other supervisors.
• Conducts performance reviews and recommends discipline for those directly supervised. • Discusses and coordinates discipline and other personnel issues with the Chief of Police. • Participates in interviewing and selection of police employee applicants. • Interprets policies, directives, and other personnel regulations and ensures their consistent application.
• Directs the preparation of and/or prepares correspondence, records, and reports. • Responds to and investigates complaints regarding police misconduct. • Oversees or conducts internal investigations.
• Works with outside agencies to coordinate police service response plans, resources, and operational issues.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 35
Avenal Police Commander
2 • Coordinates development and submission of the budget for assigned divisions and monitors expenditures.
• Plans, evaluates, and conducts training courses and various programs and activities • Participates in and oversees the ordering, distribution and maintenance of supplies and equipment.
• Researches, identifies and recommends pursuit of law enforcement grant programs from local, state, or federal sources.
• Prepares and/or oversee the preparation of grant proposals • Performs a variety of other duties as assigned.
• Serves as a police department representative with media outlets and provides interviews; both on and off camera
• Serves as a police department representative while interacting with members of the community, community groups, business representatives, school officials and other prominent persons.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills and abilities required to satisfactorily perform the essential duties and responsibilities.
Knowledge of:
• Principles and practices of PC’s and related software. • Principles, practices, techniques and equipment used in law enforcement, including patrol, arrest, custody, crime investigation and prevention and internal investigations. • Principles and practices of employee supervision, including selection, training work evaluation and discipline.
• Administrative practices and methods, to include planning, delegation, and program implementation, as well as practices and procedures of budget preparation and monitoring. • Criminal laws, codes ordinances, and court interpretations, including rights of citizens, apprehension, arrests, search and seizure, and rules of evidence.
Skilled in:
• Community based policing, Problem Oriented Policing and total quality management. • Implementing goals objective, policies, and procedures. • Establishing and maintaining cooperative and effective working relationships. • Preparing clear and concise records, reports, correspondence, and other written materials.
Ability to:
• Communicate effectively verbally and in writing
• Operate a PC and related software
• Maintain effective working relationships with other people • Pass an initial comprehensive background investigation, medical/physical/ psychological examinations, and any subsequent examinations that may be required, and an oral interview. • Apply the principles and techniques of management, supervision, evaluation and training. • Apply the advanced techniques of police investigative and operational activities. • Read, understand, interpret, explain, and apply applicable laws, ordinances, policies, and regulations.
• Perform the duties of a Police Officer.
• Physically be present at the worksite to ensure proper staffing levels. • Work evening hours and weekends, as directed by the Chief of Police January 23, 2025 Pg. 36
Avenal Police Commander
3 EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:
Any combination of education and experience that demonstrates possession of the requisite knowledge, skill and abilities. A typical way to obtain these would be:
• Bachelor’s Degree with emphasis in the above fields, preferred. • Master’s Degree desirable
• Maintain Basic, Intermediate, Advanced, and Supervisory POST certificates and acquire a Management Certificate within two (2) years of employment in this classification. • A minimum of 1 (One) years of experience as a full time sworn Police Sergeant or higher rank with the City of Avenal or with a similar sized agency or larger. • Must be able to work emergency call-back duty, must be able to maintain firearms qualification. • Maintain a valid California Driver License with a driving record acceptable to the City.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, stand for lengthy periods of time in indoor, outdoor and vehicular environments. The employee frequently is required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear. Effectively fire a police issued firearm and various special weapons. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50+ pounds. Effectively deal with stressful and potentially hazardous emergency situations. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, and ability to adjust focus.
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly works in both indoor and outdoor conditions, sometimes in extreme heat, cold and inclement weather. Employee regularly works near video display. The noise level in the work environment is usually minimal to moderate.
ALL FULL-TIME EMPLOYEES ARE REQUIRED TO HAVE A VALID CONTACT TELEPHONE.
EMPLOYEES SHALL WORK HARMONIOUSLY WITH ALL CITY EMPLOYEES.
THE CITY OF AVENAL IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Revised 01/23/2025
January 23, 2025 Pg. 37
January 23, 2025 Pg. 38
BEFORE THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF AVENAL
IN THE MATTER OF:
Replacing an existing Employment
Position within the Police Department.
RESOLUTION 2025-_10_
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Avenal (“City”) desires to consider information and recommendations from the City Manager pursuant to Avenal Municipal Code § 2-4.108(d) pertaining to reorganization of employment positions; WHEREAS, City desires to replace an existing employment positions to assist with carrying out the lawful business of the City under the control, oversight and direction of the relevant department head(s), and it is in the best interest of the City to amend such employment positions; and
WHEREAS, it is the intent of the City Council to replace the employment position and approve the job descriptions and classifications thereof.
UPON MOTION OF COUNCIL MEMBER , SECONDED BY
COUNCIL MEMBER , THE FOLLOWING WAS PASSED,
APPROVED, AND ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL AT AN OFFICIAL MEETING HELD ON January 23, 2025, BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
ATTEST:
Alvaro Preciado, Mayor
CITY OF AVENAL
KARLA CURIEL, Deputy City Clerk
CITY OF AVENAL
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
January 23, 2025 Pg. 39
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. Found that the foregoing recitals are true;
2. Approved and adopted the one job descriptions in ATTACHMENT B; to this resolution;
3. Approved the creation of one employment position and classification within the Police Department which shall be governed by the job description in ATTACHMENT B for the Police Commander position – replacing the Police Captain job description.
4. Unless a budget amendment is necessary, in which case it shall be added to a future Council meeting agenda, the new employment positions created by this resolution shall be considered funded under the existing City budgets for the relevant departments or special budget circumstances; and
5. Authorized the City Manager, City Clerk and all relevant City staff to carry out the terms and conditions of this resolution and to take all steps reasonably necessary, proper and/or convenient and/or incidental thereto.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
January 23, 2025 Pg. 40
City of Avenal
919 Skyline Blvd.
Avenal, CA 93204
Phone: (559) 386-5766
AGENDA ITEM NO. 10 – A
TO: The Honorable Mayor and City Council
FROM: Antony V. López, City Manager, by
Cecilio Velasco, Chief of Police
DATE: January 23, 2025
RE: Consider Replacing the Title of Senior Police Officer to Police Corporal and Update Job Description
INFORMATION:
Following an evaluation of the Avenal Police Department's organizational structure and operational needs, it has been identified that changing the title of Senior Officer to Corporal and updating the associated job description will better reflect the role’s responsibilities and align with industry standards. This adjustment provides clarity on the position’s status as a first-line supervisor with limited supervisory authority, bridging the gap between patrol officers and sergeants.
The Corporal title is widely recognized across law enforcement agencies and conveys a more accurate representation of the position’s duties, particularly in providing guidance, mentorship, and oversight to less experienced officers. The revised job description emphasizes the role’s limited supervisory authority, including responsibilities such as ensuring compliance with department policies, assisting with field training, and supporting operational efficiency during shifts.
The department will have four Corporals, and the associated cost for badges is minimal and can be absorbed into the department’s existing budget. This change supports morale by recognizing the increased responsibilities and leadership contributions of those in this role while ensuring operational efficiency.
There is minimal fiscal impact associated with this change, limited to the cost of new badges or badge re-engraving for the four Corporal positions, which will be absorbed into the existing Police Department budget.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends, by Resolution, the approval of changing the title of Senior Officer to Corporal, updating the associated job description, and authorizing the allotment of four Corporals within the Avenal Police Department.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Police Department- Utilize existing funds in the Personnel Budget for FY 2024/2025, and budget accordingly for FY 2025/2026.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 41
Passed and Adopted XXXXXX
Resolution No.
CITY OF AVENAL
CLASS SPECIFICATION
Disclaimer - Class descriptions are written as a representative list of the ADA essential duties performed by the entire job classification. They cannot include, and are not intended to include, every possible activity and task performed by every specific employee in every position.
JOB TITLE: POLICE CORPORAL
FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt
JOB PURPOSE:
Under direction, provides lead direction to Police Officers on assigned shift, serves as the principal field training officer for new officers, and acts as a first-line supervisor with limited supervisory authority.
Serve the City and community at large by performing a variety of peace officer duties involving the protection of life and property. Enforces laws and ordinances of the City, State, and Federal government.
Provides assistance and protection to residents through the execution of a program of community policing that includes education and crime prevention, investigation, and suppression activities. Prepares cases and provides testimony in court proceedings on behalf of the community.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following:
Disclaimer- This list is meant to be representative, not exhaustive. Some incumbents may not perform all the duties listed. Other cases related duties may also be assigned. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Supervises the work of Police Officers on an assigned shift, ensuring compliance with policies and procedures, and providing guidance as needed.
• Leads and participates in the patrol of assigned City business, residential and park areas to ensure the security of life and property.
• Observes situations and deters crimes by providing high visibility. • Interacts with business owners and public to further programs of community policing. • Gathers information and ideas for improvement of community life and security and obtain information on police-related issues.
• Provides Field Training to new officers, participates in the evaluation of the work performance of officers on his/her shift.
• Reviews officer reports, inspects officers and their assigned equipment. • Provides officer training at shift briefings regarding policies, procedures, and laws. • Directs assigned officers in, and participates in, the conduct of, complex investigations to ensure comprehensive and successful investigations and convictions. • Responds to suspicious activities and answers emergency calls for service. • Enforces a variety of City, county, state, and federal laws and ordinances, issues verbal warnings and citations.
• Pursues and apprehends suspects.
• Conducts limited drug and alcohol testing to identify those under the influence and crime and incident scenes.
• Books related evidence.
• Investigates juvenile and adult criminal activity and incidents as the responding officer. • Investigates traffic accidents and provides traffic control.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 42
Avenal Police Corporal
2 • Restores order, protects life and property, and maintains peace at public gatherings and in conflict situations.
• Conducts surveillance and searches; develops contacts and sources and follows up on the same. • Responds to medical and fire calls, provides emergency aid and assistance as needed. • Performs a variety of other duties as assigned.
• May serve as the watch commander or acting sergeant in the absence of the Sergeant.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills and abilities required to satisfactorily perform the essential duties and responsibilities.
Knowledge of:
• Computer and related software.
• Basic principles of supervision, evaluation, and training. • Record keeping methods.
• Standard office equipment.
• Law enforcement terminology and concepts.
• Techniques of dealing with people of all socioeconomic levels under normal, hostile, and emergency situations.
• Safety practices and precautions in law enforcement.
Skilled in:
• Directing the work of others and training through discussion and example. • Observing and accurately recalling names, places, descriptive characteristics, and facts of incidents.
• Remaining calm and taking appropriate action in tense situations. • Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships. • Reading, interpreting, and applying complex laws, procedure, and policies. • Preparing clear and concise reports, records, and other written materials.
Ability to:
• Demonstrated ability to provide oversight and direction to other officers, including experience as an FTO or in a similar leadership role, preferred.
• Apply supervisory principles to effectively oversee the work of officers and provide clear direction during field operations.
• Operate a computer and related software.
• Maintain effective working relationships with other people. • Pass an initial interview, comprehensive background investigation, initial medical and physical examination and any subsequent examinations that may be required. • Apply principles of supervision, evaluation, and training. • Physically be present at the worksite to ensure proper staffing levels. • Be consistent in meeting employment obligations by reporting on time and working full workdays and workweeks to include shift work, weekends, holidays, and evening hours as assigned.
• Communicate in oral and written English.
• Read, understand, interpret, explain, and apply applicable laws, ordinances, policies, and regulations.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 43
Avenal Police Corporal
3 • Analyze, act, and react quickly, effectively, and assertively in a variety of emergency and critical circumstances and respond sensitively to the needs of the community and residents. • Maintain cooperative relationships with representatives of other agencies, community residents and visitors, and other City employees.
EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:
The following are preferred, not required:
• Must have an overall “Satisfactory” rating on the last two performance evaluations. • Candidates will be eligible for promotion so long as any disciplinary action received in the last two years resulted in a “Letter of Counseling”, Written Reprimand, or any lesser discipline”. • Associate’s Degree criminology, law enforcement/administration of justice, political science, social or behavioral science or graduation from an armed forces school in security, intelligence, investigations or law enforcement or a related field, preferred.
The following are required for this classification:
• High School Diploma or an equivalent certificate or diploma recognized by the State of California.
• Maintain a valid California Driver License, with a driving record acceptable to the City. • Possess and maintain a BASIC P.O.S.T. Certificates (must acquire the Intermediate Certificate within Three (3) years of appointment to the classification). • Maintain a First Aid/CPR Certificate.
• One (1) year of experience as a full time sworn Police Officer with the City of Avenal, OR One (1) year as a full-time sworn Peace Officer as defined in P.C. 830.1(a) with another agency.
Anyone who fails to obtain required certificates within the allotted time frame or maintain required certificates and licenses, may have their probationary period extended and be re-evaluated for the position, or may be release from probation.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit. The employee frequently is required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear.
The employee is occasionally required to stand and walk. Physically pursue, subdue, and detain unwilling suspects. Work in a variety of atmospheres, temperatures, and weather, day, or night. The January 23, 2025 Pg. 44
Avenal Police Corporal
4 employee must be able to effectively operate a police vehicle. The employee must be able to show proficiency in handling, maintaining, and qualifying with various weapons issued by the police department. Effectively deal with stressful and potentially hazardous emergency situations. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 100+ pounds.
Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, and ability to adjust focus.
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly works in both indoor and outdoor conditions, sometimes in extreme heat, cold and inclement weather. Employee regularly works near video display. The noise level in the work environment is usually minimal to moderate.
ALL FULL-TIME EMPLOYEES ARE REQUIRED TO HAVE A VALID CONTACT TELEPHONE.
EMPLOYEES SHALL WORK HARMONIOUSLY WITH ALL CITY EMPLOYEES.
THE CITY OF AVENAL IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Revised 01/23/2025
January 23, 2025 Pg. 45
BEFORE THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF AVENAL
IN THE MATTER OF:
Replacing an existing Employment
Position within the Police Department.
RESOLUTION 2025-_11_
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Avenal (“City”) desires to consider information and recommendations from the City Manager pursuant to Avenal Municipal Code § 2-4.108(d) pertaining to reorganization of employment positions; WHEREAS, City desires to replace an existing employment positions to assist with carrying out the lawful business of the City under the control, oversight and direction of the relevant department head(s), and it is in the best interest of the City to amend such employment positions; and
WHEREAS, it is the intent of the City Council to replace the employment position and approve the job descriptions and classifications thereof.
UPON MOTION OF COUNCIL MEMBER , SECONDED BY
COUNCIL MEMBER , THE FOLLOWING WAS PASSED,
APPROVED, AND ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL AT AN OFFICIAL MEETING HELD ON January 23, 2025, BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
ATTEST:
Alvaro Preciado, Mayor
CITY OF AVENAL
KARLA CURIEL, Deputy City Clerk
CITY OF AVENAL
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
January 23, 2025 Pg. 46
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. Found that the foregoing recitals are true;
2. Approved and adopted the one job descriptions in ATTACHMENT C; to this resolution;
3. Approved the creation of one employment position and classification within the Police Department which shall be governed by the job description in ATTACHMENT C for the Police Corporal position – replacing the Senior Police Officer job description.
4. Unless a budget amendment is necessary, in which case it shall be added to a future Council meeting agenda, the new employment positions created by this resolution shall be considered funded under the existing City budgets for the relevant departments or special budget circumstances; and
5. Authorized the City Manager, City Clerk and all relevant City staff to carry out the terms and conditions of this resolution and to take all steps reasonably necessary, proper and/or convenient and/or incidental thereto.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
January 23, 2025 Pg. 47
City of Avenal
919 Skyline Blvd.
Avenal, CA 93204
Phone: (559) 386-5766
Fax: (559) 386-0629
AGENDA ITEM NO. 4. G
TO: The Honorable Mayor and City Council
FROM: Antony V. López, City Manager
DATE: January 23, 2025
RE: Consider Adopting by Resolution, New and Amended Citywide Policies for the City of Avenal Policy & Procedure Manual: Social Media Terms of Use Policy; Content Creation Guide and Official City Branding Social Media; Sexual Harassment; Discipline; Email Etiquette Policies, & Gym Release Form INFORMATION:
As we enter 2025, with increased staffing levels and evolving challenges, City Administration recognizes the importance of maintaining updated, consistent policies across all departments.
This ensures efficiency, effectiveness, and clarity for staff.
Currently, many City policies stem from the outdated 1987 Policy & Procedure Manual, which exists only in hard copy. Over the years, amendments and handwritten changes have made it difficult to determine which policies are officially adopted. Staff is actively exploring a partnership with Lexipol to adopt a modern handbook, aligned with federal law and featuring tools to streamline updates, enforce acknowledgment, and provide regular training. While this comprehensive update is underway and expected to be implemented in the coming months, immediate adoption of these specific policies is paramount.
POLICY DETAILS
1. Social Media Terms of Use Policy
This new policy establishes guidelines for the City’s social media platforms. It outlines rules for public interaction, staff responsibilities, and compliance with transparency and public record laws. It ensures consistent, professional communication and public trust in our digital presence .
2. Content Creation Guide and Official City Branding Social Media Policy With the recent addition of a Communications Manager, this guide ensures consistent branding across social media, website updates, and public notices. It provides standards for fonts, colors, layouts, and formatting to promote a unified and professional City image .
3. Sexual Harassment Policy
Although updated in 2016, discrepancies existed between older and newer versions. This amendment consolidates the policy into one comprehensive document, with added language requiring training for consistency with state requirements and Lexipol standards .
January 23, 2025 Pg. 48
City of Avenal
919 Skyline Blvd.
Avenal, CA 93204
Phone: (559) 386-5766
Fax: (559) 386-0629
AGENDA ITEM NO. 4. G
4. Discipline Policy
The 1987 manual lacked clarity regarding disciplinary actions. The updated policy provides detailed examples, procedures, and alignment with modern legal and operational standards .
5. Email Etiquette Policy
This new policy standardizes email communication to enhance professionalism and compliance with public record laws. It includes guidelines on tone, subject lines, timely responses, and legal considerations .
6. Gym Release Form
This form is required for employees to use the Ken Brown gym at the APD/Hospital facility. It minimizes liability for the City by clarifying rules and requiring users to acknowledge risks. The updated version incorporates input from the City’s Risk Management Authority (RMA).
NEXT STEPS
These policies will serve as foundational updates until the Lexipol handbook is fully implemented. Once adopted, they will be presented to all staff for review. Staff will continue to develop additional policies specific to Avenal’s needs that complement the Lexipol framework.
RECOMMENDATION:
The Resolution 2025-12, authorizes the City Manager to administer, implement, and make minor amendments to these policies as needed, pending final review by the City Attorney. Major changes will be brought back to the Council for approval. Adoption of these policies will ensure that City operations remain consistent, compliant, and reflective of professional standards.
Attachments:
Social Media Terms of Use Policy; Content Creation Guide and Official City Branding Social Media Policy; Sexual Harassment Policy; Discipline Policy; Email Etiquette Policy; Gym Release Form; Resolution 2025-12.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 49
City of Avenal
Social Media Terms of Use Policy: City of Avenal Social Media Platforms I.T. Policy 2025-01
City of Avenal
I.T. Policy 2025-01 Social Media Terms of Use
Adopted 01/23/2025
Pg. 1
I. Purpose
The City of Avenal and its subsequent departments (i.e. Avenal Police Department) maintains multiple social media platforms for the purpose of engaging and interacting with our community, providing relevant and timely community news, information and events, distribution of public safety updates, etc. which may affect residents, business owners and visitors to the City of Avenal.
II. Definitions
a. “Social Media”, is but is not limited to, the website or app offered to the public to provide audio, video, still-photo or written communication between other members of the public and/or representatives of certain groups, businesses, organizations or departments. Examples of social media platforms include Facebook, Instagram, website blogs with commenting capabilities, forums and emergency notification services.
b. "Content" refers to, but is not limited to, any information, text, images, videos, or other media posted on the city's official social media accounts, including updates about city services, events, news announcements, community initiatives, and responses to public comments, essentially encompassing all published material on their social media platforms.
III. Applicability
The City of Avenal’s Social Media Terms of Use apply to any social media sites maintained by the City or it’s various departments, such as the Avenal Police Department.
All social media platforms used by the Avenal Police Department (“APD”), including its website, Facebook Page, Instagram account, and/or any other social media account(s) administered by the Avenal Police Department, adhere to the City of Avenal's Social Media Terms of Use Avenal Police Department Policy 342- Department Use of Social Media, which states the following:
The City of Avenal ("City") uses social media to share information relevant to the Avenal community about city departments, services, issues, news, and events. Social media serves as an effective platform for community members to stay informed about City government.
All official use of these platforms must adhere to the guidelines and standards outlined in this policy, which aims to:
• Ensure consistent and professional communication on behalf of the City. • Promote the City’s mission, values, and objectives through social media platforms. • Maintain public trust by providing accurate, timely, and appropriate content.
This policy applies to all City employees, officers, contractors, interns, and volunteers who contribute to or oversee content posted on the City, its accounts, or APD’s social media platforms as part of their official duties. It also applies to individuals authorized by the City Manager, Department Head, or their designee to access and contribute to these platforms for legitimate business purposes.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 50
City of Avenal
Social Media Terms of Use Policy: City of Avenal Social Media Platforms I.T. Policy 2025-01
City of Avenal
I.T. Policy 2025-01 Social Media Terms of Use
Adopted 01/23/2025
Pg. 2
Non-employees authorized to access the City’s social media platforms must comply with this policy and all related City and department standards. Unauthorized use of any City-maintained social media platform is strictly prohibited.
By engaging with these platforms in an official capacity, all users must adhere to:
1. The City’s Social Media Terms of Use.
2. Applicable local, state, and federal laws regarding online communication.
3. The guidelines provided within this policy to protect the integrity of City-managed platforms and ensure compliance with public transparency laws.
This policy is reviewed annually in order to ensure the terms are understood by those affected by this policy. The contents of this policy are subject to change at any time as a result of experience, new information, changes in process requirements and the availability of resources.
You further agree to the following terms of use:
IV. Limited Public Forum
All social media platforms used by the City are designated as Limited Public Forums. The City welcomes a person's right to express his/her opinion and encourages posters to keep comments relevant to the topic in question. Posting of any content on any social media platform used by the City by any visitor, follower, subscriber or fan, constitutes acceptance of the terms of use described herein this policy as well as the Terms of Service of the platform in question.
V. Emergency or Non-Emergency Requests for Police Assistance Social media accounts maintained by the City, its various departments, or the Avenal Police Department are not monitored 24/7. The posting of requests for police or emergency assistance, regardless if it is of an emergency or non-emergency nature, is discouraged and will not guarantee a response by the City, Avenal Police Department, or any emergency service provider.
In case of an emergency, or if emergency police assistance is needed, please dial 9-1-1. To request non-emergency police assistance, or if you wish to report a crime or information relevant to a crime, please call the Avenal Police Department's Communication Center at 559-386-4444.
In the event you post information related to a crime, you may be placing yourself in a position of becoming a witness and subject to being subpoenaed into court.
VI. Authority of the City Manager and APD Chief
The City Manager or their designees shall have the authority and responsibility for implementing this policy and ensuring the centralized safekeeping of all social media account credentials, securely maintained by the IT Department and the City Manager’s office to ensure access continuity during January 23, 2025 Pg. 51
City of Avenal
Social Media Terms of Use Policy: City of Avenal Social Media Platforms I.T. Policy 2025-01
City of Avenal
I.T. Policy 2025-01 Social Media Terms of Use
Adopted 01/23/2025
Pg. 3
position changes or staff transitions. As authorized and delegated by the City Council, the City Manager shall retain full oversight and enforcement authority over this policy, including complete control and access to all City-affiliated social media accounts.
The Chief of Police shall have ultimate discretion and oversight of APD’s social media platforms to ensure consistency, professionalism, and compliance with law enforcement standards, in adherence of APD Policy 342.
Every effort must be made to ensure that all City-affiliated social media channels, pages, and accounts adhere to this policy and coordinate a consistent image and unified message on behalf of the City. While individual departments retain discretion over the content shared on their specific platforms to align with their mission and legal obligations, they must coordinate with together to ensure alignment with the City’s overall communication strategy.
The City Manager/APD Chief or their designees shall be trained by the City Attorney, IT Director, IT Manager, or other designated individual regarding the terms of this policy including the responsibilities to review content submitted for posting to ensure compliance with this policy.
VII. Privacy
On official social media pages, anything you post, including comments, private messages, chats, reactions such as “Likes” or “Thumbs-up”, and posts that have been deleted, may be subject to the California Public Records Act and subject to disclosure in the event of litigation. As technology and laws change, updates may be made to this page and policy without notice.
VIII. Special Terms of Use for City of Avenal Employees and Public Officers City of Avenal employees and public officers, including Council or Commission members, should be aware that their contributions to social media platforms may be classified as government speech rather than personal expression. Such contributions are subject to California and federal laws such as the Brown Act and federal elections and campaign laws. Merely using a private email address, non-City identifier, or non-City name does not change the nature of their speech from government to private. Even including a disclaimer stating "these comments reflect my personal opinion and do not represent the views of the City of Avenal" may not be sufficient to classify their speech as private rather than government.
IX. Posts and/or Comments
By engaging on any social media platform operated by the City, you consent to granting a nonexclusive, irrevocable, royalty-free license for any information you post. Users must adhere to intellectual property standards and ensure that their content is posted legitimately.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 52
City of Avenal
Social Media Terms of Use Policy: City of Avenal Social Media Platforms I.T. Policy 2025-01
City of Avenal
I.T. Policy 2025-01 Social Media Terms of Use
Adopted 01/23/2025
Pg. 4
Where permitted, posts and comments on the City's social media pages should directly relate to city business (as defined in Section 2 of I.T. Policy 2022-01). The City's Social Media Policy prohibits inappropriate content, which may result in removal without prior notice. Inappropriate content includes, but is not limited to:
1. Political issues, including posts about elected officials or candidates for elective office and issues appearing on an election ballot;
2. Profane, indecent or obscene content;
3. Sexual content or links to sexual content or obscene and indecent speech;
4. Content that promotes, fosters or perpetuates discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, age, religion, gender, marital status, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation or national origin;
5. Defamation, threats, violent or hate speech;
6. Any political, campaign or election content;
7. Promotional announcements not related to City business;
8. Solicitation of commerce, including but not limited to advertising of any business or product for sale;
9. Posts in violation of any Federal, State, County or Local law;
10.Posts that encourages illegal activity;
11.Information that may compromise the safety or security of the public or public systems;
12.Content that violates a legal ownership interest, such as a copyright or trademark, of Any party;
13.Content that contains confidential or proprietary information;
14.Content that violates another person’s right to privacy or any other right;
15.Comments not related to the original topic, including random or unintelligible comments;
16.Harassment or content which constitutes and/or facilitates stalking;
17.Content which violates the right to privacy;
18.Encouragement of violence;
19.Repetitive content (more than twice);
20.Posts or comments that contain any external website links; and Comments which may reasonably interfere with, inhibit, or compromise law enforcement investigations, police tactics, police responses to incidents and/or the safety of police staff and officers.
Comments posted on any City social media page represent the views of the commenter alone. The City does not endorse or agree with these comments, nor do they necessarily reflect the opinions or policies of the City. Posting a comment does not constitute a legally binding representation by the City, and opinions expressed on social media are not substitutes for formal statements in public hearings.
The City’s social media pages are not suitable platforms for submitting claims, demands, complaints, or any legal or administrative notices. Such communications must be delivered to the City as required by applicable laws, regulations, or contracts. For further details, please the City of Avenal 559-386-5766.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 53
City of Avenal
Social Media Terms of Use Policy: City of Avenal Social Media Platforms I.T. Policy 2025-01
City of Avenal
I.T. Policy 2025-01 Social Media Terms of Use
Adopted 01/23/2025
Pg. 5
All posts and comments on City social media pages must comply with the legal terms and conditions of the respective social media platforms. The City reserves the right to report violations of these conditions to the platform operator for appropriate action.
X. Content Guidelines
To ensure consistency, professionalism, and compliance with City standards, all content posted on the City of Avenal’s official social media platforms must adhere to the following guidelines:
1. Adherence to Content Creation and Branding Standards a. All content must follow the City of Avenal Content Creation Guide and the Official City Branding Social Media Guide, which outline approved messaging, design elements, logos, and formatting styles.
b. Content that does not align with these standards must not be posted without prior approval from the City Manager or their designee.
2. Confidential Information
a. Confidential, sensitive, or proprietary information may not be shared under any circumstances. Examples of such information include, but are not limited to:
§ Personal or financial information about employees, residents, or businesses. § Law enforcement or investigation details that are not public record. § Internal communications or unreleased City policies or plans.
3. Compliance with Copyright and Intellectual Property Laws a. All content must respect copyright laws and intellectual property rights. Only materials with appropriate permissions, public domain status, or properly attributed licenses may be posted.
b. The City reserves the right to request documentation for the use of any third-party content.
4. Accuracy and Fact-Checking
a. All information shared must be accurate, verified, and free from errors. Posts should represent current City policies, initiatives, or programs. b. Content that is outdated, incorrect, or misleading must be corrected or removed promptly.
XI. Final Decision
The decision to post or not to post content and/or links on the City websites resides solely with the City Manager, the APD Chief or their designated group of employees. The decision of the City Manager/APD Chief or their designated group of employees is final and binding. Under no circumstances will individuals or entities be entitled to compensation or damages in the event that the City Manager/APD Chief or their designees directs the City to include or exclude the content or link.
XII. Denial of Use
The City reserves the right to restrict or remove any posted content that is deemed in violation of this Policy or any applicable law.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 54
City of Avenal
Social Media Terms of Use Policy: City of Avenal Social Media Platforms I.T. Policy 2025-01
City of Avenal
I.T. Policy 2025-01 Social Media Terms of Use
Adopted 01/23/2025
Pg. 6
The City’s social media pages are provided as a public service. The City disclaims liability for ads, videos, promoted content, or messages accessible from any external web page.
The City reserves the right, without prior notice, to deny access to City social media pages for any individual who repeatedly violates this Policy.
Any litigation regarding the City’s actions, content, or information on any social media page shall be filed in the County of Kings, regardless of where else the venue may lie.
If you wish to contest the removal or hiding of your content, or your denial of access ("banned") from our social media platforms, you may do so by contacting the City of Avenal at 559-386-5766.
XIII. Disclaimers
The City disclaims any liability for any loss or damage resulting from any comments posted on the City’s social media page. The City reserves the right to change this policy at any time without notice.
XIV. Contacting the City of Avenal
For more information about the City of Avenal, please visit the official City of Avenal website at www.cityofavenal.com or call City Hall at 559- 386- 5766, Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
XV. Contacting the Avenal Police Department
For more information about the Avenal Police Department, please visit the Avenal Police Department’s link on the official City of Avenal website at www.cityofavenal.com or call the Avenal Police Department at 559-386-4444.
Attachments:
Employee Acknowledgment /Onboarding Form
Attachment A – City of Avenal and Avenal Police Department Social Media Policy Acknowledgement Form Attachment B – Avenal Police Department Policy 342 (Social Media) January 23, 2025 Pg. 55
City of Avenal
Social Media Terms of Use Policy: City of Avenal Social Media Platforms I.T. Policy 2025-01
City of Avenal
I.T. Policy 2025-01 Social Media Terms of Use
Adopted 01/23/2025
Pg. 7
City of Avenal and Avenal Police Department Social Media Policy Acknowledgment Form
I.T. Policy 2025-01
Employee/Contractor/Volunteer Information
• Full Name: ___________________________________________ • Position/Role: ________________________________________ • Department: _________________________________________ • Date: _______________________________________________ Acknowledgment of Receipt and Understanding
By signing below, I acknowledge that I have received, read, and understood the City of Avenal Social Media Terms of Use Policy (I.T. Policy 2025-01), including its provisions, guidelines, and restrictions regarding social media usage on platforms maintained by the City of Avenal and the Avenal Police Department.
I understand that:
1. Social media platforms are designated as limited public forums and are subject to this policy.
2. Comments or posts made on City-affiliated social media platforms may be subject to public disclosure under the California Public Records Act.
3. My contributions to social media platforms as a City employee, public officer, contractor, or volunteer may be considered government speech, subject to federal and state laws.
4. Content must adhere to Content Creation and Branding Standards.
5. The City may monitor, restrict, or remove content that violates this policy or applicable laws.
I agree to adhere to the standards outlined in the policy, to refrain from posting prohibited content as described, and to comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and City guidelines when using social media.
I also understand that noncompliance with this policy may result in the denial of access to City social media platforms, disciplinary action, or other consequences as January 23, 2025 Pg. 56
City of Avenal
Social Media Terms of Use Policy: City of Avenal Social Media Platforms I.T. Policy 2025-01
City of Avenal
I.T. Policy 2025-01 Social Media Terms of Use
Adopted 01/23/2025
Pg. 8
determined by the City Manager, the Avenal Police Department Chief, or their designees.
Agreement and Signature
I have read, understand, and agree to abide by the terms of the City of Avenal Social Media Terms of Use Policy.
• Signature: ___________________________________________ • Date: _______________________________________________ For City Use Only
• Reviewed By: _________________________________________ • Date Received: _______________________________________ January 23, 2025 Pg. 57
Policy
342
Avenal Police Department
Avenal PD Policy Manual
Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/03/15, All Rights Reserved.
Published with permission by Avenal Police Department
Department Use of Social Media - 1
Department Use of Social Media
342.1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE
This policy provides guidelines to ensure that any use of social media on behalf of the Department is consistent with the Department mission.
This policy does not address all aspects of social media use. Specifically, it does not address:
• Personal use of social media by Department members (see the Employee Speech, Expression and Social Networking Policy).
• Use of social media in personnel processes (see the Recruitment and Selection Policy).
• Use of social media as part of a criminal investigation, other than disseminating information to the public on behalf of this Department (see the Investigation and Prosecution Policy).
342.1.1 DEFINITIONS
Definitions related to this policy include:
Social media - Any of a wide array of Internet-based tools and platforms that allow for the sharing of information, such as the Department website or social networking services 342.2 POLICY
The Avenal Police Department may use social media as a method of effectively informing the public about department services, issues, investigations and other relevant events.
Department members shall ensure that the use or access of social media is done in a manner that protects the constitutional rights of all.
342.3 AUTHORIZED USERS
Only members authorized by the Chief of Police or the authorized designee may utilize social media on behalf of the Department. Authorized members shall use only department-approved equipment during the normal course of duties to post and monitor department-related social media, unless they are specifically authorized to do otherwise by their supervisors.
The Chief of Police may develop specific guidelines identifying the type of content that may be posted. Any content that does not strictly conform to the guidelines should be approved by a supervisor prior to posting.
Requests to post information over department social media by members who are not authorized to post should be made through the member’s chain of command. 342.4 AUTHORIZED CONTENT
Only content that is appropriate for public release, that supports the department mission and conforms to all department policies regarding the release of information may be posted.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 58
Avenal Police Department
Avenal PD Policy Manual
Department Use of Social Media
Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/03/15, All Rights Reserved.
Published with permission by Avenal Police Department
Department Use of Social Media - 2
Examples of appropriate content include:
(a) Announcements.
(b) Tips and information related to crime prevention.
(c) Investigative requests for information.
(d) Requests that ask the community to engage in projects that are relevant to the department mission.
(e) Real-time safety information that is related to in-progress crimes, geographical warnings or disaster information.
(f) Traffic information.
(g) Press releases.
(h) Recruitment of personnel.
342.4.1 INCIDENT-SPECIFIC USE
In instances of active incidents where speed, accuracy and frequent updates are paramount (e.g., crime alerts, public safety information, traffic issues), the Administrative Services Commander or the authorized designee will be responsible for the compilation of information to be released, subject to the approval of the Incident Commander.
342.5 PROHIBITED CONTENT
Content that is prohibited from posting includes, but is not limited to:
(a) Content that is abusive, discriminatory, inflammatory or sexually explicit. (b) Any information that violates individual rights, including confidentiality and/or privacy rights and those provided under state, federal or local laws. (c) Any information that could compromise an ongoing investigation. (d) Any information that could tend to compromise or damage the mission, function, reputation or professionalism of the Avenal Police Department or its members. (e) Any information that could compromise the safety and security of department operations, members of the Department, victims, suspects or the public. (f) Any content posted for personal use.
(g) Any content that has not been properly authorized by this policy or a supervisor.
Any member who becomes aware of content on this department’s social media site that he/she believes is unauthorized or inappropriate should promptly report such content to a supervisor. The supervisor will ensure its removal from public view and investigate the cause of the entry. 342.5.1 PUBLIC POSTING PROHIBITED
Department social media sites shall be designed and maintained to prevent posting of content by the public.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 59
Avenal Police Department
Avenal PD Policy Manual
Department Use of Social Media
Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2024/03/15, All Rights Reserved.
Published with permission by Avenal Police Department
Department Use of Social Media - 3
The Department may provide a method for members of the public to contact department members directly.
342.6 MONITORING CONTENT
The Chief of Police will appoint a supervisor to review, at least annually, the use of department social media and report back on, at a minimum, the resources being used, the effectiveness of the content, any unauthorized or inappropriate content and the resolution of any issues. 342.7 RETENTION OF RECORDS
The Administrative Services Division Commander should work with the Custodian of Records to establish a method of ensuring that public records generated in the process of social media use are retained in accordance with established records retention schedules. 342.8 TRAINING
Authorized members should receive training that, at a minimum, addresses legal issues concerning the appropriate use of social media sites, as well as privacy, civil rights, dissemination and retention of information posted on department sites. 342.9 SECTION TITLE
January 23, 2025 Pg. 60
City of Avenal - Social Media Design Guidelines
I.T. Policy 2025-02
City of Avenal
I.T. Policy 2025-02 Social Media Design Guidelines
Adopted 01/23/2025
Pg. 1
Core Design Principles
- Accessibility First: Ensure all content is readable and clear for all residents - Consistency: Maintain a unified visual identity across all public communications platforms
- Clarity Over Creativity: While creativity is valuable, information clarity is paramount - Trust and Authority: Design should reflect the official nature of government communications
Official Colors
● Black (#000000) - Primary text, borders, and structural elements ● Yellow (#fff100) - Attention-grabbing elements, highlights ● Blue (#007dc4) - Headers, buttons, important information ● Brown (#fdc388) - Warm accents, background elements, decorative, pistachio shell coloring
● Pistachio (#93C572) – Decorative, can be desaturated to a neutral background ● Teal (#00aa95) - Secondary information, decorative elements Primary Brand Fonts
● Futura SH Bold: Official brand font for primary headlines and important information
● Brush 445: Official brand font for decorative elements and special emphasis Complementary Font System
For variety and readability, use these complementary fonts in different roles:
Title Options:
● Futura SH Bold (primary brand font)
● Montserrat Bold (modern, professional)
● League Spartan (strong, authoritative)
● Oswald (impactful, great for short titles)
Subtitle Options:
● Brush 445 (primary brand font)
● Lora (elegant, readable)
● Source Serif Pro (professional, traditional)
● Roboto Slab (modern yet governmental)
Commented [HB1]: changed "communications" to
"public communications platforms"
Commented [HB2]: edit: describing why this brown in
particular
Commented [HB3]: Consider adding #93C572 to the
official color scheme
Commented [HB4]: Depending on what CivicPlus wants
to do, we might want to use the font used on the
website logo. Online font finders are having trouble with the raw image.
Commented [MOU5R4]: I was able to find close fonts
for the “California” and “Pistachio Capital of the World” but I also struggled to find the exact font for “Avenal”. I have reviewed the rest of the doc and it is ready to be sent to council minus this font obstacle - please advise.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 61
City of Avenal - Social Media Design Guidelines
I.T. Policy 2025-02
City of Avenal
I.T. Policy 2025-02 Social Media Design Guidelines
Adopted 01/23/2025
Pg. 2
Body Text Options:
● Helvetica Neue (clean, professional)
● Open Sans (highly readable)
● Roboto (modern, versatile)
● Source Sans Pro (excellent legibility)
Layout Structure
Information Hierarchy Principles
Clear Headline (What)
● Largest text element
● High contrast with background
● Usually top 1/3 of design
● Example: "CITY COUNCIL MEETING" or "WATER SERVICE INTERRUPTION" Key Details (When, Where, How)
● Second largest text elements
● Grouped together for easy scanning
● Usually middle section of design
Supporting Information
● Smaller, clearly organized text
● Bullet points or short paragraphs
● Usually lower middle section
● Example: "Agenda includes budget review, public comment period, and parks proposal"
Call to Action/Contact
● Clear, prominent placement
● Usually bottom section
● Different color, bold, or background to stand out
● Example: "Register at www.cityofavenal.gov" or "Questions? Call (555) 555- 5555"
January 23, 2025 Pg. 62
City of Avenal - Social Media Design Guidelines
I.T. Policy 2025-02
City of Avenal
I.T. Policy 2025-02 Social Media Design Guidelines
Adopted 01/23/2025
Pg. 3
Layout Examples
Standard Event Layout
[City Logo - Top Left]
EVENT TITLE
[Supporting Image/Graphic]
Date & Time
Location
---
Key Details
- Point 1
- Point 2
---
Contact Information
[Social Media/Website]
Urgent Notice Layout
[Warning Icon]
URGENT NOTICE
---
What's Happening
When it Starts/Ends
Areas Affected
---
Action Required
Contact for Help
[City Logo]
Information Post Layout
[City Logo]
ANNOUNCEMENT TITLE
---
Main Message
[Supporting Graphic]
Important Details
---
Learn More:
Contact Information
January 23, 2025 Pg. 63
City of Avenal - Social Media Design Guidelines
I.T. Policy 2025-02
City of Avenal
I.T. Policy 2025-02 Social Media Design Guidelines
Adopted 01/23/2025
Pg. 4
Typography Roles
Title:
● Primary: Important announcements, event names
● Size: Largest text element (35-50pt)
● Fonts: Futura SH Bold, Montserrat Bold, League Spartan Subtitle:
● Primary: Dates, locations, key details
● Size: 60-70% of title size
● Fonts: Brush 445, Lora, Source Serif Pro
Heading:
● Primary: Section introductions
● Size: 24-28pt
● Fonts: Futura SH Bold, Montserrat Bold, Oswald
Subheading:
● Primary: Important details, time slots
● Size: 18-22pt
● Fonts: Open Sans Bold, Roboto Bold
Section Header:
● Primary: Information categories
● Size: 16-25pt
● Fonts: Futura SH Bold, Helvetica Neue Bold
Body:
● Primary: General information
● Size: 14-20pt
● Fonts: Open Sans, Source Sans Pro, Roboto
Quote:
● Primary: Testimonials, official statements
● Style: Italic version of chosen body font
● Fonts: Lora Italic, Source Serif Pro Italic
January 23, 2025 Pg. 64
City of Avenal - Social Media Design Guidelines
I.T. Policy 2025-02
City of Avenal
I.T. Policy 2025-02 Social Media Design Guidelines
Adopted 01/23/2025
Pg. 5
Caption:
● Primary: Supporting information
● Size: smallest
● Fonts: Open Sans, Roboto, Helvetica Neue
Font Pairing Guidelines
1. Use maximum of 2-3 fonts per design
2. Maintain consistent pairing across similar post types
3. Ensure strong contrast between roles (e.g., bold title with clean body text)
4. When in doubt, default to brand fonts
Technical Specifications
● Aspect Ratio: 4:5 (1080 x 1350 pixels) for Instagram/Facebook compatibility ● File Format: PNG for upload to Meta Business Suite
● Resolution: 300 DPI minimum for print, 150 minimum for digital ● Logo Placement: Bottom right corner, consistent size across all posts ● Margins: Minimum 100px from edges for mobile viewing
Meta Business Suite Tips
● Schedule posts during peak engagement times
● Post carousel images for event series
● Pin important announcements
● Use Stories for time-sensitive and important updates
● Upload Instagram stories to appropriate highlight as necessary Post Type Templates
City Hall Closures
● Background: Neutral Color (ex: #fff6ed)
● Title: "CITY HALL CLOSED" in black
● Subtitle: Holiday name in blue
● Body: Dates and times in black
● Footer: City logo and social media handles
● Consistent icon: Building or calendar symbol
● Color Scheme: Primarily black and blue, minimal use of other colors January 23, 2025 Pg. 65
City of Avenal - Social Media Design Guidelines
I.T. Policy 2025-02
City of Avenal
I.T. Policy 2025-02 Social Media Design Guidelines
Adopted 01/23/2025
Pg. 6
Recurring Events
● Background: Neutral Color (#fff6ed)
● Title: Event name in blue
● Subtitle: Date and time in black
● Section Headers: "Vendors", "Location", "Time" in teal ● Body: Details in black
● Consistent icon: Relevant symbol (e.g., produce for farmers market) ● Color Scheme: Blue and teal primary, yellow for highlights ● Registration information if needed
Town Hall/Public Forums
● Background: Professional blue gradient or pattern
● Title: Meeting topic in white
● Subtitle: Date and location in yellow
● Section Headers: Agenda items in white
● Body: Details in white or light color
● Footer: City logo and contact information
● Consistent icon: Community or discussion symbol
● Color Scheme: Blue primary, white text, yellow accents Emergency/Urgent Notices
● Background: Solid yellow (ex: #fff100) with red border ● Title: "EMERGENCY NOTICE" or "URGENT UPDATE" in black ● Warning icon: Universal warning symbol in black
● Information hierarchy:
1. What is happening
2. Areas affected
3. Actions to take
4. Where to get updates
● Priority information at the top
● Body text: Black or dark blue for maximum contrast
● Red accents only for highest priority emergencies
● Minimal design elements
● Contact information prominent at bottom
● City logo and official department name clear and visible January 23, 2025 Pg. 66
City of Avenal - Social Media Design Guidelines
I.T. Policy 2025-02
City of Avenal
I.T. Policy 2025-02 Social Media Design Guidelines
Adopted 01/23/2025
Pg. 7
Public Services
● Background: Neutral Color (ex: #fff6ed)
● Title: Service name in blue
● Subtitle: Service hours/dates in black
● Information blocks:
○ Requirements
○ Steps to access
○ Documentation needed
○ Costs (if any)
● Icons: Relevant service symbols
● Footer: Department contact info
● Color scheme: Blue and teal primary
● QR code when linking to online services
News Updates
● Background: Neutral Color (ex: #fff6ed)
● Official seal: Prominent top placement
● Date: Clearly visible near top
● Title: News topic in black
● Subheaders: Blue for different sections
● Quote styling: For official statements
● Source attribution: Department or official
● Footer:
○ Contact for more information
○ Social media handles
○ Website for full story
● Color scheme: Professional blue and black
Special/One-Time Events & Notices
● More creative freedom with design elements
● Must include:
○ City logo
○ Clear hierarchy of information
○ Consistent font usage
○ At least two brand colors
○ High contrast for readability
January 23, 2025 Pg. 67
City of Avenal - Social Media Design Guidelines
I.T. Policy 2025-02
City of Avenal
I.T. Policy 2025-02 Social Media Design Guidelines
Adopted 01/23/2025
Pg. 8
Accessibility Guidelines
● Minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 between text and background ● No text over busy images without overlay/shadow
● No essential information in images only
● Minimum text sizes for readability
● Alt text for all informational images
● Avoid color as sole means of conveying information
● Use icons to support text information
● Ensure sufficient white space for readability
● Limit use of Serif fonts to titles only
Visual Elements
● Use icons to highlight key information
● Include your government seal/logo consistently
● Maintain ample white space
● Use grids for organizing multiple elements
Best Practices
Consistency Checkers
● Same logo placement
● Consistent color usage
● Standard font hierarchy
● Regular spacing patterns
● Clear call to action/Contact info
● Use template naming convention:
○ [PostType][Month][Year]
○ Example: CityHallClosure_Dec_2024
Mobile Optimization
● Test readability on small screens
● Limit text amount
● Use scalable elements (vector/high quality images)
● Check contrast in different lights
January 23, 2025 Pg. 68
City of Avenal - Social Media Design Guidelines
I.T. Policy 2025-02
City of Avenal
I.T. Policy 2025-02 Social Media Design Guidelines
Adopted 01/23/2025
Pg. 9
Quick Design Checklist
● [ ] Official logo/seal included
● [ ] Colors follow guidelines
● [ ] Fonts are consistent
● [ ] Information hierarchy clear
● [ ] Contact details included
● [ ] Date/time specified (if relevant)
● [ ] Alt text added to post
● [ ] Mobile-friendly
● [ ] Proper contrast ratio
● [ ] Department attribution clear
● [ ] Proper file naming conventions
January 23, 2025 Pg. 69
City of Avenal
ADMINISTRATIVE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
SEXUAL HARASSMENT
AS AMENDED PER RESOLUTION NO.2003-48 & NO.2016-19
City of Avenal
Sexual Harassment Policy
Amended 01/23/2025
Pg. 1
Section 1: Purpose. This Administrative Regulation is to establish the City's policy concerning acts of sexual harassment.
Section 2: Organizations Affected. All departments/divisions, including all City employees.
Section 3: References. EEOC Guidelines - 29 CFR Section 1604.11, California State Department of Fair Employment and Housing Regulations, Title VIII, California Administrative Code, Section 7287.6 (b) (1).
Section 4: Policy. The City of Avenal is committed to providing a workplace free of sexual harassment as well as unlawful harassment based on race, ancestry, national origin, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, disability (including HIV / AIDS diagnosis), marital status, age (40 and over), medical condition (including cancer and genetic characteristics), transgender, refusal of family care leave, refusal of leave for an employee's serious health condition, denial of pregnancy disability leave, and veteran status.
Discrimination is prohibited in all employment practices within the City including advertisements, applications and interviews, hiring, transferring, promoting or leave a job, and working conditions.
The City of Avenal is committed to preventing, investigating, and, when appropriate, taking disciplinary and other action in response to incidents of harassment whether or not the intent appears to be in violation of existing statues. The City of Avenal's primary concern is the provisions of an optional work environment for all personnel.
Section 5: Definition. Harassment is unwelcome verbal, visual, or physical conduct that creates an intimidating, offensive, or hostile working environment or that interferes with work performance. Such conduct constitutes harassment when:
Submission to the conduct is made either an explicit or implicit condition of employment;
Submission to or rejection of the conduct is used as the basis for an employment decision;
The harassment unreasonably interferes with an employee's work performance or creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work environment.
Harassing conduct can take many forms and includes, but is not limited to, slurs, jokes, statements, gestures, pictures, or cartoons regarding a employee's age, ancestry, color, marital status, medical condition, mental disability, physical January 23, 2025 Pg. 70
City of Avenal
ADMINISTRATIVE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
SEXUAL HARASSMENT
AS AMENDED PER RESOLUTION NO.2003-48 & NO.2016-19
City of Avenal
Sexual Harassment Policy
Amended 01/23/2025
Pg. 2
disability (including persons infected with the HIV virus or persons with AIDS), national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or veteran status.
Section 6: Examples of Sexual Harassment. Depending on the circumstances, sexually harassing conduct includes all of these actions as well as other unwelcome conduct such as request for sexual favors, conversation containing sexual comments, and sexual advances, including, but not limited to:
Demands for sexual favors in exchange for favorable treatment or continued employment;
Threats and demands to submit to sexual requests in order to obtain or retain any employment benefit;
Verbal conduct such as epithets, derogatory or obscene comments, slurs or sexual invitations, sexual jokes, propositions, suggestive, insulting, obscene gestures or other verbal abuse of a sexual nature;
Graphic, verbal commentary about an individual's body, sexual prowess or sexual deficiencies;
Flirtations, advances, leering, whistling, touching, pinching, assault, coerced sexual acts, blocking normal movements;
Visual conduct such as derogatory or sexual posters, photographs, cartoons, drawings or gestures or other displays in the workplace of sexually suggestive objects or pictures.
Conduct or comments consistently targeted at only one gender, even if the content is not sexual;
Retaliation for having reported or threatened to report sexual harassment.
This behavior is unacceptable in the workplace itself and in other work-related settings such as business trips and business-related social events.
Section 7: Reporting. Employees should promptly report any incident of work -related harassment, in any form, to their supervisor. Where any incident of work -related harassment is alleged to involve an employee's supervisor, report of such incident may be made directly to the City Manager.
Section 8: Responsibilities.
A. The City Manager shall be responsible for enforcement of the sexual harassment policy and shall be responsible for ensuring that all complaints of sexual harassment are investigated thoroughly and are responded to in a timely fashion, including the presentation of recommendations for any necessary action to the City Manager.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 71
City of Avenal
ADMINISTRATIVE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
SEXUAL HARASSMENT
AS AMENDED PER RESOLUTION NO.2003-48 & NO.2016-19
City of Avenal
Sexual Harassment Policy
Amended 01/23/2025
Pg. 3
B. The Department Heads and Supervisors shall be responsible for informing employees of the City's policy on sexual harassment and for taking all steps necessary to set a positive example and to prevent sexual harassment from occurring. Each Department Head is responsible for ensuring that the work environment in their department is free of sexual harassment by:
1.Setting a positive example of behavior appropriate to the work place;
2.Posting copies of this policy in conspicuous places;
3. Having managers and supervisors inform their employees of the City of Avenal Policy and complaint resolution procedure;
4. Requiring managers and supervisors to report instances of sexual harassment to their respective supervisors and/or the City Manager; 9l1,
5.Encouraging managers and employees to attend training and to read materials supplied by the City to increase their awareness of and sensitivity to the problem of sexual harassment.
Section 9: Complaint Resolution Process.
A. Informal Pre-Grievance Process. An employee who has been harassed on the job must inform the employer, its agents or supervisors of the harassment. To accommodate the unique nature of harassment complaints, a pre-grievance process is provided for the primary purpose of resolving complaints at the earliest possible date. Elements of this process are:
1. The employee who believes he/she has been the subject of sexual harassment should report the incidents(s) in writing to his/her immediate supervisor, the Department Head or the City Manager promptly following any such occurrence.
2. The City Manager will be available to receive harassment complaints and to:
a. Counsel the victimized employee and outline the options available; b. Obtain the written statement of the complaint;
c. Assist in, or conduct the investigation, interview the accused, witnesses and supervisors as appropriate, and recommend disposition of the complaint to the Department Head, or take steps personally to dispose of the complaint.
3. At the request of the City Manager, the Department Head shall assist in the investigation of the complaint, review factual information collected to determine whether the alleged conduct constitutes harassment, giving consideration to the record as a whole and the totality of circumstances including the nature of the verbal, physical, visual or sexual favor aspect of the advance and the context in which the alleged incidents occurred and initiate and/or recommend appropriate action.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 72
City of Avenal
ADMINISTRATIVE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
SEXUAL HARASSMENT
AS AMENDED PER RESOLUTION NO.2003-48 & NO.2016-19
City of Avenal
Sexual Harassment Policy
Amended 01/23/2025
Pg. 4
4. Confidentiality - Every effort will be made to protect the privacy of parties involved in a complaint.
Section 10: Formal Grievance Process.
1.Administrative Hearing: Any employee affected by the resolution of the complaint in the informal pre-grievance process may request an administrative hearing before the City Manager (or the City Council). This formal grievance process shall be initiated by filing a written request with the City Manager (or City Council) within ten (10) days after disposition of the complaint in the informal pre-grievance process. The administrative hearing shall be held in private, unless the employee requesting the administrative hearing submits a written request for a public hearing.
However, if the City Manager determines that a public hearing is likely to adversely affect the rights of other City personnel, then at the City Manger's discretion, the hearing will remain closed.
2.Extension of Time Requirements: If the employee fails to initiate either the informal pre-grievance process or the formal grievance process within the applicable time limits, the City Manager may recommend extension of the filing deadlines. It should be re-emphasized that the City wishes to know of any complaint alleging harassment as soon as possible following its occurrence.
3.Waiver of Informal Step: Preliminary informal steps to resolve a grievance may, depending on circumstances of the complaint, be waived and the formal grievance initiated at an appropriate higher step in the grievance procedure.
Section 11. Investigation. Every complaint of harassment will be investigated thoroughly and promptly by the City and/or agent. The City of A venal shall attempt to keep the investigation confidential to the extent permitted under applicable statutes and other circumstances. The City of Avenal, moreover, will not tolerate any retaliation against any employee who reports alleged harassing conduct
Through the investigation process, the City of Avenal will:
1. Interview the Complainant and the allege harasser;
2. Ask the Complainant what steps he or she would like the City of Avenal to take as a consequence of the alleged harassment;
2. Conduct further interviews and/or investigation as deemed necessary by the City in order to objectively gather the facts relevant to the Complaint;
4. Throughout the investigation, take care to protect the right of all parties involved in the Complaint;
January 23, 2025 Pg. 73
City of Avenal
ADMINISTRATIVE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
SEXUAL HARASSMENT
AS AMENDED PER RESOLUTION NO.2003-48 & NO.2016-19
City of Avenal
Sexual Harassment Policy
Amended 01/23/2025
Pg. 5
5. Issue a detailed report setting forth the City's findings regarding the Complaint.
6. In the same report, recommend follow-up actions and, if warranted, appropriate remedies and/or relevant training;
7. Individually and in writing, inform both the Complainant and the alleged harasser of the City of Avenal's conclusions regarding the Complaint. In most instances, because of the necessity of personnel record confidentiality, the City of Avenal will not disclose to the Complainant the details and/or specific nature of any remedial action taken against an alleged harasser.
The City shall, however, inform the Complainant whether or not; (1) sufficient evidence was located to substantiate the claims of Complainant, and (2) remedial action was and/or will be taken by the City in response to the Complaint.
8. Encourage any Complainant to provide any additional information to the City which he or she believes may be relevant to the City's investigation.
9. Encourage any alleged harasser to review the City's policy regarding sexual harassment.
10. Reaffirm the City of Avenal's commitment to its zero-tolerance policy against harassment.
Section 12: Discipline. If the City of Avenal determines that harassment has occurred, the City of Avenal will impose discipline upon offending employees. The appropriate discipline depends on the particular facts but may include written warnings, probation, reassignment of responsibilities, suspension and termination. If the harassing conduct is the act of a non- employee, the City of Avenal will take appropriate corrective action to attempt to ensure that such conduct is not repeated,
Section 13: State Enforcement Procedure. Harassment and retaliation for opposing harassment or participating in harassment investigations are illegal. Complaints of harassment also may be directed to the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing ("DFEH) which has the authority to conduct investigations of the facts. The deadline for filing complaints with the DFEH is one year from the date of the alleged unlawful conduct. If the DFEH believes that a complaint is valid and settlement efforts fail, the DFEH may seek an administrative hearing before the California Fair Employment and Housing Commission ("FHEC") or file a lawsuit in court. Both the FEHC and the courts have the authority to award monetary and non-monetary relief in meritorious cases. You can contact the nearest DFEH office or the FEHC at the locations listed on our DFEH poster or by checking the state government listing in your local telephone directory.
The California Labor Commissioner, not the DFEH, processes administrative claims of January 23, 2025 Pg. 74
City of Avenal
ADMINISTRATIVE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
SEXUAL HARASSMENT
AS AMENDED PER RESOLUTION NO.2003-48 & NO.2016-19
City of Avenal
Sexual Harassment Policy
Amended 01/23/2025
Pg. 6
sexual orientation discrimination. The deadline for filing complaints with the Labor Commissioner is thirty (30) days from the date of the alleged unlawful conduct.
Section 14: Federal Enforcement Procedure. Sexual harassment is a violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Employees who believe they may have been discriminated against may file a complaint with the Equal Opportunity Commission (EEOC) within 300 days of the incident. In addition, a complaint may be filed with the Department of Fair Employment and Housing within 365 days of the incident.
Section 15: Training. All new employees shall be provided with a copy of this policy as part of their orientation. The policy shall be reviewed with each new employee. The employee shall certify by signing the prescribed form that they have been advised of this policy, are aware of and understand its contents, and agree to abide by its provisions during their term with the City of Avenal.
All employees shall receive annual training on the requirements of this policy and shall certify by signing the prescribed form that they have reviewed the policy, understand its contents, and agree to continue abiding by its provisions.
1. STATE-REQUIRED TRAINING: The Director of Administrative Services or his/her designee should ensure that employees receive the required state training and education regarding sexual harassment, prevention of abusive conduct, and harassment based on gender identity, gender expression, and sexual orientation as follows (Government Code § 12950.1; 2 CCR 11024):
(a) Supervisory employees shall receive two hours of classroom or other effective interactive training and education within six months of assuming a supervisory position. (b) All other employees shall receive one hour of classroom or other effective interactive training and education within six months of their employment or sooner for seasonal or temporary employees as described in Government Code § 12950.1.
(c) All employees shall receive refresher training every two years thereafter. (d) If the required training is to be provided by the Civil Rights Department online training courses, the Director of Administrative Services or his/her designee should ensure that employees are provided the following website address to the training course: https://calcivilrights.ca.gov (Government Code § 12950; 2 CCR 11023).
2. TRAINING RECORDS The Director of Administrative Services or his/her designee shall be responsible for maintaining records of all discriminatory harassment training provided to employees. Records shall be retained in accordance with established records retention schedules and for a minimum of two years (2 CCR 11024).
Section 16: Conclusion. The City of Avenal has developed this policy to try to ensure that all employees can work in an environment free from harassment. The City of Avenal will make every effort to ensure that all of its personnel are familiar with this policy and know that any complaint received will be thoroughly investigated and appropriately resolved.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 75
City of Avenal
ADMINISTRATIVE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
SEXUAL HARASSMENT
AS AMENDED PER RESOLUTION NO.2003-48 & NO.2016-19
City of Avenal
Sexual Harassment Policy
Amended 01/23/2025
Pg. 7
CITY OF AVENAL
NOTICE TO ALL EMPLOYEES
SEXUAL HARASSMENT POLICY
ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY
The City of Avenal has developed this policy to try to ensure that all employees can work in
an environment free from harassment. The City of Avenal will make every effort to ensure
that all of its personnel are familiar with this policy and know that any complaint received will be thoroughly investigated and appropriately resolved, I acknowledge receiving the City of Avenal's Sexual Harassment Policy. ______________________
_____________________________
Date Employee’s Signature
_____________________________
Employee's Name (Print)
January 23, 2025 Pg. 76
City of Avenal
DISCIPLINARY ACTION
City of Avenal
Disciplinary Action
Adopted 01/23/2025
Pg. 1
Disciplinary Policy Statement
Whenever an employee's performance, attitude, work habits, or personal conduct at any time falls below a desirable level, supervisors should inform employees promptly and specifically of such lapses. If appropriate and justified, a reasonable period of time for improvement may be allowed before initiating disciplinary action. In some instances, a specific incident may justify severe disciplinary action in and of itself; the action to be taken depends on the seriousness of the incident and the employee's past performance and conduct. Any instance of disciplinary action shall be documented in the employee's personnel file. If a provision of the disciplinary rules conflicts with the Public Safety Officers Bill of Rights, the Public Safety Officers Bill of Rights shall prevail.
Employee to Give City Notice - Employee Alleged Violation of the Law It is the responsibility of employees to give notice to the City when they are convicted of alleged criminal violations of law and/or when they receive any citation that may affect the status of their driver's license if they are required to drive. Such notice shall be provided in writing within the next business day after the conviction or citation.
Kinds of Disciplinary Action
The following disciplinary actions may be taken against any employee either by the City Manager or authorized management or supervisorial personnel. In all cases, disciplinary action may be taken only upon approval by the City Manager. - Reprimand: An oral or written notice of substandard performance or misconduct. The purpose of a reprimand is to provide a direct means of employee performance improvement. A reprimand may be extended to the employee by their supervisor at any time. A reprimand is neither appealable nor grievable. The employee will, however, have the opportunity to review the reprimand with their supervisor. The employee may submit a written response to the reprimand within ten days of receipt. - Suspension: An involuntary absence without pay.
- Salary Reduction: A reduction in pay from the employee's current step within a pay range to any lower step within that same range, as recorded in the City's current Compensation Plan.
- Demotion: Reduction from a position in one classification to a position in another classification having a lower salary range for disciplinary purposes, or from one step to a lower step in the salary range for the same position. (Demotions resulting from an January 23, 2025 Pg. 77
City of Avenal
DISCIPLINARY ACTION
City of Avenal
Disciplinary Action
Adopted 01/23/2025
Pg. 2
employee's inability to perform required duties due to a disability, organizational changes, and layoffs are not disciplinary.)
- Dismissal: Discharge from City service.
Causes for Disciplinary Action
Causes for disciplinary action against any employee may include, but shall not be limited to the following:
(A) Failure to meet prescribed standards of work, morality, and ethics to an extent that makes an employee unsuitable for employment in the City service; (B) Theft, dishonesty, misrepresentations, theft from the City in any form, untruthfulness to avoid discipline or during an investigation preparatory to discipline; (C) Incompetency, inefficiency, repeated negligence, and low productivity in the performance of duty;
(D) Insubordination;
(E) Criminal conduct, conviction of or plea of guilty or no contest to a felony; or misdemeanor which is job-related;
(F) Notoriously disgraceful personal conduct, immorality, conviction of or plea of guilty or no contest to a misdemeanor involving moral turpitude; (G) Unauthorized absences or abuse of leave privileges; (H) Tardiness, neglect of duty;
(I) Acceptance of any valuable consideration which was given with the expectation of influencing the employee in the performance of their duties; (J) Fraud, falsification of records;
(K) Use of official position for personal advantage;
(L) Misuse of City property or equipment;
(M) Engaging in unsafe work practices; malicious destruction of City property; January 23, 2025 Pg. 78
City of Avenal
DISCIPLINARY ACTION
City of Avenal
Disciplinary Action
Adopted 01/23/2025
Pg. 3
(N) Use of alcohol or drunkenness on duty or being under the influence of any drug or substance that impairs the ability to perform work safely and effectively; (O) Unlawful use, sale, or possession of narcotics or habit-forming drugs; (P) Discourteous treatment of the public or other employees; (Q) Assault on Supervisor; fighting between employees;
(R) Improper political activity as defined by State laws; (S) Violation of any of the provisions of these Rules and Regulations or departmental rules and regulations;
(T) Refusal to take or subscribe to any oath or affirmation which is required by law in connection with their employment;
(U) Engaging in outside employment without prior approval; (V) Working overtime without authorization;
(W) Other failure of good behavior, either during or outside of duty hours, which is of such a nature that causes discredit to the City;
(X) Misuse of City run social media platforms or making disparaging comments about the City, its employees, or operations on personal social media accounts, whether directly or indirectly, that could harm the City's reputation.
Administration of Disciplinary Action
The City Manager may propose and subsequently take disciplinary action against an employee under their control for one or more of the causes for discipline specified in this Chapter or in other applicable City policies or procedures. The employee will be served with a written notice of proposed discipline which will outline the proposed discipline and the employee's right to an appeal prior to the imposition of discipline. The notice of proposed discipline may include the following:
(A) A statement of the proposed disciplinary action;
(B) The effective date of the proposed discipline;
January 23, 2025 Pg. 79
City of Avenal
DISCIPLINARY ACTION
City of Avenal
Disciplinary Action
Adopted 01/23/2025
Pg. 4
(C) Summary of the causes upon which the proposed discipline is based; (D) A factual summary supporting the causes for proposed discipline; (E) A copy of all written materials upon which the charges are based; (F) A statement advising the employee of their right to an appeal to respond to the notice prior to the imposition of the proposed discipline; (G) Any other information pertinent to the proposed discipline.
Discipline & Appeal Process
Non-Serious Discipline of Employees
When the discipline will be a verbal or written reprimand, a disciplinary probation, or a suspension for five (5) or fewer workdays, the employee’s department head (or the City Manager) will meet with the employee and explain the nature of the conduct or performance necessitating the meeting. The department head (or the City Manager) will give the employee an opportunity to verbally respond and will inform the employee of the disciplinary action being imposed. The employee will be notified of their right to respond to the allegations in writing, and a copy of that response will be placed in their personnel file. If requested, the employee’s response letter may be reviewed by the City Council, whose decision will be final and binding.
Serious Discipline of Employees
The City may take serious disciplinary action beyond a verbal or written reprimand, disciplinary probation, or a suspension for five (5) or fewer workdays. The process includes the following steps:
1. Notice: The employee will receive a letter initiating the disciplinary process, served either in person or by mail with tracking or delivery confirmation. This letter will include:
(a) The proposed disciplinary action;
(b) The reasons and/or causes for the proposed action;
(c) Facts and circumstances, along with copies of all materials supporting the disciplinary action;
January 23, 2025 Pg. 80
City of Avenal
DISCIPLINARY ACTION
City of Avenal
Disciplinary Action
Adopted 01/23/2025
Pg. 5
(d) The effective date of the proposed action; and
(e) Information on the employee’s right to respond within ten (10) workdays, either verbally, in writing, or both, to a disciplinary committee or Hearing Officer identified in the letter. The location, date, and time for presenting the verbal response will also be provided.
2. Representation: The letter will inform the employee of their right to have representation, at their expense, during the pre-disciplinary process.
3. Hearing and Decision: The disciplinary committee or Hearing Officer will review the employee’s response and make a decision within fifteen (15) workdays, or longer if necessary. The decision will be final unless the employee files a written appeal within fifteen (15) workdays of the decision.
4. Appeal: Appeals are heard by the City Council or its designee (“Appeals Board”), who will determine the appropriate disciplinary action. The Appeals Board may authorize a Hearing Officer to propose findings and recommendations.
5. Outcome: The Appeals Board’s decision will be communicated in writing, specifying the disciplinary action, cause, facts, and effective date. Decisions not involving dismissal, demotion, reduction in pay, or suspension for more than five (5) workdays are final and not appealable.
Representation
An employee may have a representative of their choice, at their expense, during any interview or meeting concerning disciplinary action or where there is probable cause for discipline.
Finality of Decision
If the employee does not request an appeal within the 10 working days, or if the appeal process does not overturn the proposed disciplinary action, the City’s decision will be final, and the disciplinary action will proceed as planned.
Documentation
All disciplinary actions and related appeal processes will be documented and maintained in the employee’s personnel file.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 81
City of Avenal
DISCIPLINARY ACTION
City of Avenal
Disciplinary Action
Adopted 01/23/2025
Pg. 6
Disciplinary Actions for Misconduct and Job Performance Below Standard
FRONT COUNTER CONDUCT
Offense: Personal cellphone use unrelated to work at the counter First Offense: Oral warning to written notice.
Second Offense: Written notice to 5-day suspension.
Third Offense: 6-day suspension to discharge.
Offense: Eating food at the counter
First Offense: Oral warning to written notice.
Second Offense: Written notice to 3-day suspension.
Third Offense: 4-day suspension to discharge.
Offense: Gossiping or engaging in excessive chit-chat in view of visitors First Offense: Oral warning.
Second Offense: Written notice to 2-day suspension.
Third Offense: 3-day suspension to discharge.
BREAKS AND SNACKS STANDARD
Offense: Taking breaks longer than the allotted 15 minutes or failing to coordinate coverage
First Offense: Oral warning to written notice.
Second Offense: Written notice to 3-day suspension.
Third Offense: 4-day suspension to discharge.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 82
City of Avenal
DISCIPLINARY ACTION
City of Avenal
Disciplinary Action
Adopted 01/23/2025
Pg. 7
Offense: Consuming snacks outside designated areas or in public view First Offense: Oral warning to written notice.
Second Offense: Written notice to 2-day suspension.
Third Offense: 3-day suspension to discharge.
Offense: Making personal calls during work hours outside of emergencies First Offense: Oral warning to written notice.
Second Offense: Written notice to 2-day suspension.
Third Offense: 3-day suspension to discharge.
PROFESSIONAL APPEARANCE
Offense: Wearing inappropriate or overly casual attire (e.g., ripped jeans outside of Casual Fridays)
First Offense: Oral warning to written notice.
Second Offense: Written notice to 3-day suspension.
Third Offense: 4-day suspension to discharge.
COMMUNICATION AND RESPONSIVENESS
Offense: Failing to respond to emails or messages promptly First Offense: Oral warning.
Second Offense: Written notice to 2-day suspension.
Third Offense: 3-day suspension to discharge.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 83
City of Avenal
DISCIPLINARY ACTION
City of Avenal
Disciplinary Action
Adopted 01/23/2025
Pg. 8
Offense: Not notifying the supervisor about tardiness or absence First Offense: Oral warning to written notice.
Second Offense: Written notice to 5-day suspension.
Third Offense: 6-day suspension to discharge.
CUSTOMER SERVICE
Offense: Failing to treat customers with respect and professionalism First Offense: Oral warning to written notice.
Second Offense: Written notice to 3-day suspension.
Third Offense: 4-day suspension to discharge.
Offense: Demonstrating unprofessional body language or tone First Offense: Oral warning.
Second Offense: Written notice to 2-day suspension.
Third Offense: 3-day suspension to discharge.
GENERAL OFFICE ETIQUETTE
Offense: Failing to maintain shared spaces in a tidy manner First Offense: Oral warning.
Second Offense: Written notice.
Third Offense: 1-day suspension to discharge.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 84
City of Avenal
DISCIPLINARY ACTION
City of Avenal
Disciplinary Action
Adopted 01/23/2025
Pg. 9
Offense: Frequent tardiness or absenteeism
First Offense: Oral warning to written notice.
Second Offense: Written notice to 5-day suspension.
Third Offense: 6-day suspension to discharge.
CELL PHONE USE
Offense: Excessive personal cellphone use during work hours First Offense: Oral warning to written notice.
Second Offense: Written notice to 3-day suspension.
Third Offense: 4-day suspension to discharge.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 85
City of Avenal Email Etiquette Policy
City of Avenal
Email Etiquette Policy
Adopted 01/23/2025
Pg. 1
Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to establish guidelines for the appropriate and professional use of email communication by City of Avenal staff. This ensures effective, clear, and respectful communication while maintaining the city’s professionalism and compliance with public record laws.
Scope
This policy applies to all City of Avenal employees, contractors, and any individual using cityprovided email accounts or systems.
Policy Guidelines
1. General Email Standards
- Professional Tone: Always maintain a polite and professional tone. Avoid using slang, jargon, or overly casual language.
- Clear Subject Lines: Use concise and specific subject lines to help recipients quickly understand the purpose of the email.
- Proofreading: Check for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors before sending any email.
2. Content Guidelines
- Relevance: Ensure emails are concise and directly relevant to the recipient(s). Avoid sending unnecessary or redundant messages.
- Attachments: Only include necessary attachments, and ensure they are virus-free. Mention the attachment in the email body for clarity.
- Confidentiality: Do not share sensitive, private, or confidential information unless authorized.
3. Professional Conduct
- Respectful Language: Refrain from using offensive, disrespectful, or inappropriate language. - Reply All: Use “Reply All” sparingly to avoid unnecessary clutter in recipients’ inboxes. - Timely Responses: Respond to emails within 24-48 hours during regular business days unless circumstances require a quicker response.
4. Formatting and Structure
- Signature Block: Use the official City of Avenal email signature, which includes your name, title, department, and contact information.
- Font and Style: Use a standard, easy-to-read font (e.g., Arial, Calibri) and avoid excessive use of bold, italics, or colors.
- CC and BCC: Use the “CC” and “BCC” fields appropriately to ensure email recipients are relevant to the conversation.
5. Legal and Security Considerations
- Public Records: All emails sent or received on city email accounts may be subject to public records requests. Write emails with this in mind.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 86
City of Avenal Email Etiquette Policy
City of Avenal
Email Etiquette Policy
Adopted 01/23/2025
Pg. 2
- Phishing Awareness: Do not open suspicious links or attachments, and report any phishing attempts to IT immediately.
- Personal Use: Limit personal use of city email accounts and ensure it does not interfere with work responsibilities.
6. Prohibited Practices
- Sending emails containing offensive or discriminatory content. - Using city email for personal business, political campaigns, or any non-city-related activities. - Forwarding chain emails, spam, or unverified information. ---
Enforcement
Failure to adhere to this policy may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination, in accordance with the City of Avenal’s personnel policies. ---
Acknowledgment
All City of Avenal employees are required to review and acknowledge this Email Etiquette Policy. By signing below, employees agree to comply with the standards outlined in this document.
Employee Name: __________________________
Date: __________________________
January 23, 2025 Pg. 87
City of Avenal
Gym Use Release and Waiver of Liability and Assumption of Risk Form Adopted 01/23/2025
Pg. 1
GYM USE RELEASE, WAIVER OF LIABILITY, AND
ASSUMPTION OF THE RISK AGREEMENT FORM
READ CAREFULLY BEFORE SIGNING
In consideration of being allowed to use in the City of Avenal (“CITY”) gym/fitness facilities and related activities (hereinafter “GYM”) located at 317 E Alpine St, Avenal CA 93204, on the undersigned,
, for and on behalf of himself/herself/itself and for his/her/its heirs, successors, assignees, personal representatives and next of kin (hereinafter “RELEASOR”) acknowledges, appreciates, and agrees to the following:
RISKS, HAZARDS AND DANGERS
EXERCISE, TRAINING AND USE OF FITNESS EQUIPMENT ARE HAZARDOUS ACTIVITIES. RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH EXERCISE, TRAINING AND USING
FITNESS EQUIPMENT, INCLUDE, BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO, DEATH, PHYSICAL
TRAUMA, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, HEAD INJURY, BRAIN DAMAGE
AND/OR FACIAL FRACTURES, NECK AND SPINAL FRACTURES, INCLUDING
DAMAGE TO THE SPINAL CORD THAT RESULTS IN COMPLETE OR PARTIAL
PARALYSIS, AMPUTATION, RIB FRACTURES, INCLUDING PUNCTURED LUNGS,
SERIOUS INJURY TO VIRTUALLY ALL BONES, JOINTS, MUSCLES AND INTERNAL ORGANS,AGGRAVATION OF PRE_EXISTING CONDITIONS, HEAT STROKE,
FAINTING, COLLAPSE, EXHAUSTION OR OTHER MORE SERIOUS
COMPLICATIONS, PHYSICAL OR PSYCHOLOGICAL INJURY, PAIN, SUFFERING,
ILLNESS, DISFIGUREMENT, PERMANENT DISABILITY, ECONOMIC OR EMOTIONAL LOSS. Such risks can arise in an incalculable variety of unforeseeable ways, some foreseeable ways may include the following: Serious injuries may occur simply by failing to warm up or as a result of physical exertion that is beyond the participant’s capabilities, including by not limited to, lifting too much weight, failing to use a spotter, inexperience with use of stability ball or other equipment, setting treadmill speed to high or moving heavy equipment). There is an increased risk of injure due to equipment failure, including but not limited to, snapped cables, falling or dislodged equipment or equipment design failure. The failure of other participants to properly wipe down equipment may result in exposure to and/or infection of communicable diseases, toxins or allergens. The placement of equipment and other participants’ use of equipment, water bottles, towels and gym bags may also increase the risk of being stuck by equipment, other participants and/or tripping/slipping and falling on equipment or wet or uneven surface. Ingress and egress into the FACILITY may increase complications associated with weather conditions such as, rain, wind, hail, thunder, lightning, and other forces of the elements. Therefore:
January 23, 2025 Pg. 88
City of Avenal
Gym Use Release and Waiver of Liability and Assumption of Risk Form Adopted 01/23/2025
Pg. 2
Initial each section below:
ASSUMPTION OF RISK: RELEASOR, KNOWINGLY AND FREELY ASSUMES ALL RISKS, both known and unknown, EVEN IF ARISING FROM THE PASSIVE NEGLIGENCE OF THE CITY, their officers, officials, agents, employees, volunteers, other participants, representatives, sponsors, owners and lessors of premises (hereinafter “RELEASED PARTIES”) arising out of my use of the FACITITY, including use of RELEASED PARTIES’ related property and equipment. I assume full responsibility for my participation in activities which may leave me vulnerable to the risks, hazards, dangers and potential reckless actions of other participants and guests who may not have complete control over their actions or knowledge of the risks involved and hereby agree to accept all my inherent risks of property damage, personal injury or death.
WAIVER AND RELEASE. RELEASOR hereby RELEASES AND HOLDS
HARMLESS to the fullest extent permitted by law the RELEASED PARTIES for any and all injury, disability, death, or loss or damage to person or property, arising from my use of the FACILITY, including use of RELEASED PARTIES’ related property and equipment, including any such claims which allege passive negligent acts or omissions of RELEASED PARTIES to the extent permitted by law.
INDEMNIFICATION. RELEASOR hereby voluntarily release, forever discharge, and agree to defend, indemnify and hold harmless RELEASED PARTIES from any and all claims, demands, lawsuits or causes of action, which are in any way connected with my participation at the FACILITY, related activities, my use of the RELEASED PARTIES’ equipment or related premises, including any such claims which allege passive negligent acts or omissions of RELEASED PARTIES to the extent permitted by law. Should any of the RELEASED PARTIES be required to incur attorney’s fees and costs to enforce this agreement, I agree to indemnify and hold them harmless for all such fees and costs. This means that I will pay all of those attorney’s fees and costs myself.
SEVERABILITY. In the event that any provision contained within this Agreement is be deemed to be invalid, or if any term, condition, phrase or portion of this agreement shall be determined to be unlawful or otherwise unenforceable, the remainder of this agreement shall remain in full force and effect, so long as the clause severed does not affect the intent of the parties. It is the intent of the PARTIES that the RELEASOR, indemnify and hold harmless RELEASED PARTIES to the fullest extent permitted by law.
I attest that I have no known medical conditions, and have not used any form of alcohol or drugs (prescription or non-prescription) that could jeopardize my safety, or the safety of others while I use the FACILITY.
I attest that I do not have permission and will not use the FACILITY during any time in which I could be considered in the course and scope of employment for the RELEASED PARTIES. I attest that if I am using the FACILITY than I am not in the course and scope of employment for the RELEASED PARTIES.
I also acknowledge that it is my responsibility to provide for any medical, disability, or other insurance to mitigate any costs that may incurred as a result of my use of the FACILITY.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 89
City of Avenal
Gym Use Release and Waiver of Liability and Assumption of Risk Form Adopted 01/23/2025
Pg. 3
I, THE UNDERSIGNED PARTICIPANT, AFFIRM THAT I AM OF THE AGE OF EIGHTEEN (18) OR OLDER AND HAVE READ THIS RELEASE, WAIVER OF
LIABILITY AND ASSUMPTION OF THE RISK AGREEMENT AND FULLY UNDERSTAND ITS TERMS AND SIGNIFICANCE. I UNDERSTAND THAT BY
SIGNING THIS DOCUMENT I AM GIVEN UP SUBSTANTIAL RIGHTS AND SIGN IT FREELY AND VOLUNTARILY WITHOUT ANY INDUCEMENT.
Executed on this __ day of , 20______ in the City of Avenal, CA.
Name (Signed):
Name (Printed):
Phone #:
Address:
January 23, 2025 Pg. 90
City of Avenal/APD Gym Rules and Regulations
Thank You!
Adopted 1/23/2025
The Gym is reserved for the use of eligible city employees and other authorized personnel. • You or your Parent/Guardian (if you are under age 18) must complete a Release, Waiver of Liability, and Assumption of the Risk Agreement prior to use of gym. • Use gym facilities and equipment at your own risk.
• Do not bring your gym bag or other personal belongings onto the fitness floor. • Dress appropriately: Avoid wearing short-shorts, tank tops, or loose clothing that could get caught in a machine.
• Wipe down equipment: Clean equipment before and after use. • Before beginning your workout, wash your hands and wipe off any cologne or perfume.
• Be mindful: Be aware of your surroundings and how your actions affect others. • Respect others: Treat the gym and your fellow gym-goers with respect. • Do not sit on machines between sets.
• Avoid making too much noise, respecting people's space, and monopolizing equipment.
• If a machine or weights are being used by others, ask if you may “work in,” and always allow others the same courtesy; afterward, return the seat and equipment to the last user’s setup.
• Do not use gym equipment or lift or use weights that are too heavy and beyond your control.
• Re-rack weights: Put weights back where they belong after use, including weight plates.
• Set weights down quietly: Gently lower weights after each exercise instead of dropping or slamming them.
• Do not lean against a machine while using weights.
• Re-rack weights and return all other equipment and accessories to their proper locations.
• Ask staff to show you how to operate equipment properly so that others are not waiting as you figure it out.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 91
1 of 3
BEFORE THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF AVENAL
IN THE MATTER OF:
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AVENAL
ADOPTING NEW AND AMENDED
CITYWIDE POLICIES FOR THE
POLICY AND PROCEDURE MANUAL,
INCLUDING SOCIAL MEDIA TERMS
OF USE POLICY, CONTENT
CREATION GUIDE AND OFFICIAL
CITY BRANDING SOCIAL MEDIA
POLICY, SEXUAL HARASSMENT
POLICY, DISCIPLINE POLICY, EMAIL
ETIQUETTE POLICY, AND GYM
RELEASE FORM
RESOLUTION 2025-_12__
WHEREAS, the City of Avenal recognizes the importance of maintaining upto-date and consistent policies to ensure efficiency, compliance, and clarity for all City departments and staff; and
WHEREAS, the current City of Avenal Policy & Procedure Manual, originating from 1987, is outdated, incomplete, and difficult to reference due to numerous amendments and handwritten revisions.; and
WHEREAS, City Administration is in active discussions with Lexipol to adopt a comprehensive policy manual aligned with federal and state regulations, which will include tools for streamlined updates, staff acknowledgment, and regular training; however, implementation is anticipated to take several months; and WHEREAS, immediate adoption of certain policies is necessary to address critical areas of operation and mitigate risks to the City.
UPON MOTION OF COUNCIL MEMBER , SECONDED BY
COUNCIL MEMBER , THE FOLLOWING WAS PASSED,
APPROVED, AND ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL AT AN OFFICIAL SPECIAL MEETING HELD ON January 23, 2025, BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
January 23, 2025 Pg. 92
2 of 3
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
ATTEST:
Alvaro Preciado, Mayor
CITY OF AVENAL
KARLA CURIEL, Deputy City Clerk
CITY OF AVENAL
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE CITY COUNCIL Hereby:
1. Found the Recitals above are found to be true and correct.
2. Adopts the following new and amended policies and forms attached to this resolution:
Social Media Terms of Use Policy
Establishing guidelines for City-managed social media platforms to ensure professionalism, public trust, and compliance with laws governing government speech and public transparency.
Content Creation Guide and Official City Branding Social Media Policy Ensuring consistent branding across communications platforms to promote a unified and professional City image.
Sexual Harassment Policy
Updating and consolidating language to reflect current standards and mandatory training requirements, aligned with Lexipol and state laws.
Discipline Policy
Clarifying processes for addressing employee misconduct and improving consistency across departments.
Email Etiquette Policy
Establishing standards for professional, clear, and effective email communication to maintain the City’s professionalism and compliance with public record laws.
Gym Release Form
Minimizing liability for the City by requiring acknowledgment of risks for staff use of the Ken Brown Gym at the Safety Center, consistent with recommendations from the Risk Management Authority (RMA).
January 23, 2025 Pg. 93
3 of 3
3. The City Attorney shall finalize any minor amendments or language adjustments prior to implementation.
4. The City Manager is authorized to administer, implement, and amend these policies as necessary for clarity, operational needs, or legal compliance.
5. Any major language changes or additions to these policies will be presented to the City Council for approval.
6. These policies will remain in effect and integrated into the City’s forthcoming Lexipol policy manual for long-term consistency.
7. Authorize the City Manager, and relevant city staff to conduct the terms and conditions of this resolution and take all proper steps necessary and/or convenient and/or incidental thereto.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
January 23, 2025 Pg. 94
AVENAL POLICE DEPARTMENT
Cecilio Velasco, Chief of Police
317 Alpine St., Avenal, CA 93204
Bus. 559-386-4444 Fax 559-386-4447
Chief’s Monthly Report
January 23, 2025
Organizational Priorities
I. Leadership Stability
• Acting Captains R. DeLeon and E. Rij continue to embrace their leadership roles, demonstrating their ability to guide officers effectively while recognizing the value of formal training to complement their team’s practical experiences. Their focus on mentorship and operational readiness is driving positive progress within the department. • We are engaging in consistent evaluations of departmental priorities to anticipate challenges and proactively address areas such as training and operations. These discussions allow us to identify opportunities for improvement and implement strategies that enhance service delivery and operational efficiency.
• Clear expectations for first-line supervisors have been outlined to ensure alignment with departmental policies and uphold the highest standards of accountability and service. These expectations cover operational responsibilities, maintaining professionalism, demonstrating tactful leadership, fostering a culture of respect for human life and mutual respect, and striving for excellence in all aspects of their roles.
• Tonight, we are proud to honor Senior Officer Miguel Garcia with the 2024 Courage to Lead Award, celebrating his exemplary leadership and steadfast dedication to the Avenal community.
His contributions exemplify the core values of our department and inspire those around him. • Records Supervisor/Administrative Assistant Guadalupe Celis will be attending POST-certified Records Management and Supervisory training next week. This training will enhance her expertise and further strengthen the department’s ability to efficiently manage records and provide critical administrative support.
II. Recruit and Retain the Best
• We are actively recruiting for Police Officer I/II and Police Sergeant positions to expand our team and ensure the department remains well-equipped to serve the community effectively. • Officer Morillon has officially completed the Field Training Officer (FTO) program and has transitioned to serving as a solo officer. Meanwhile, Officer Maria Miranda is progressing steadily through her FTO training and, if all continues to go well, is on track to graduate from the program in the near future.
• Tomorrow, we are proud to see three recruits graduating from the Tulare-Kings Police Academy, wearing our department uniform, as they officially join our ranks. Additionally, we are in the final stages of hiring an experienced officer who has successfully completed the background process.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 95
AVENAL POLICE DEPARTMENT
Cecilio Velasco, Chief of Police
317 Alpine St., Avenal, CA 93204
Bus. 559-386-4444 Fax 559-386-4447
We are also in discussions with another experienced candidate, whose familiarity with our community could be a valuable asset.
• Part-Time Property and Evidence Officer Erika Martinez has consistently demonstrated her commitment and value to the department. Based on her dedication and contributions, we are recommending this evening that her role be transitioned to a full-time position to better meet the needs of the department and community.
• Officer Jordy Villafan recently completed rangemaster school and is now serving as our department's new rangemaster. This addition strengthens our department's training capabilities and ensures our officers have access to the highest standard of firearms training and safety protocols.
• Our agency continues to effectively utilize social media platforms to enhance outreach and engagement with the public. By showcasing our department’s activities, achievements, and values, we have successfully made it a compelling avenue to attract talented individuals to join our team.
III. International Model of Community Trust
• Our officers and professional staff remain committed to building trust and strengthening bonds with the community through meaningful interactions and participation in local events. This past season, our department actively took part in Trunk or Treat, Operation Gobble, Santa on Patrol, the Derrick Tree Lighting, and the Christmas Parade. In the days leading up to Christmas, patrol officers spread holiday cheer by gifting leftover toys to children in Avenal. Additionally, the Chief shared a heartfelt letter of gratitude, reaffirming the department's commitment to excellence and the highest standards of service.
• Last week, the Chief and staff held a planning meeting to outline community events for the upcoming year, aiming to deepen engagement with our residents. Planned events include block parties, Coffee with a Cop, Kids, Cops, and Ice Cream, Paletas with a Cop, a Valentine’s Teddy Bear Drive, and many others. These initiatives reflect our ongoing commitment to fostering strong relationships and creating positive, memorable experiences for our community. • We are currently restructuring our organizational chart to establish the new Community Service Unit, which will be overseen by the Administrative Captain. This unit will include the Community Service Officer, Explorer Advisors, Explorers, and the newly renamed Community Engagement Team, formerly known as the Community Response Team. The restructuring aims to improve coordination and amplify community outreach efforts.
• Our anti-bullying, anti-gang, and anti-drug campaign is set to launch once our grant implementation is fully underway. In preparation, we are diligently working on essential components, including the development of evaluation forms, tracking mechanisms, an updated grant organizational chart, and comprehensive grant policies.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 96
AVENAL POLICE DEPARTMENT
Cecilio Velasco, Chief of Police
317 Alpine St., Avenal, CA 93204
Bus. 559-386-4444 Fax 559-386-4447
IV. Among the Safest Cities in America
• Our proactive efforts to address violence in the community are yielding promising results. By strategically reallocating patrol resources and refining deployment practices, we have achieved a noticeable decrease in crime. These adjustments are helping us respond more effectively to community needs and maintain public safety.
• With the addition of new staff, we are preparing to launch our Detectives Unit under the leadership of the Administrative Captain. This development represents a significant milestone for our department, allowing us to focus on in-depth investigations, enhance case resolution rates, and better address complex or serious crimes. A Property and Evidence Officer will also be attached to the unit as a technician, responsible for cataloging and collecting evidence. This officer will receive specialized training to support the unit’s investigative efforts and ensure the proper handling and preservation of evidence, further strengthening our investigative capabilities.
• Grant funding continues to play a critical role in supporting our department's mission. We are pursuing a modification to one of our current grants, which will further enhance our ability to combat crime and foster trust within the community. Additionally, we remain committed to identifying and applying for new grant opportunities to address gaps in staffing, improve retention, support training, and acquire essential resources such as technology, vehicles, case management software, and other tools that ensure operational efficiency and effectiveness.
V. Embrace Wellness Among Our Employees
• Our department continues to prioritize initiatives that foster unity and morale among the team.
This past holiday season, the Chief hosted a Christmas gift exchange party as a way to bring staff together, strengthen connections, and express gratitude for their hard work and dedication.
The event was personally funded by the Chief, reflecting his genuine commitment to the team and the department’s values. Staff joyously exchanged gifts, shared laughs, and enjoyed a sense of camaraderie that was both uplifting and memorable. As part of the celebration, the Chief provided a giveaway with prizes including a new television, a red dot rifle sight, and a $100 gift card. These efforts were not about recognition or self-promotion but about creating a meaningful opportunity to connect with staff, express gratitude, share the Chief’s vision, and foster a stronger sense of unity within the department. • Through strategic planning and ongoing efforts, our department has made meaningful strides in enhancing both operations and morale. The Chief’s initiatives are part of a larger commitment to fostering teamwork and mutual respect, ensuring the department is aligned with its mission of excellence. By prioritizing officer wellness and creating a supportive work environment, these efforts empower officers to perform their duties with greater focus, resilience, and professionalism. This, in turn, translates to improved interactions with the community and a higher standard of service.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 97
AVENAL POLICE DEPARTMENT
Cecilio Velasco, Chief of Police
317 Alpine St., Avenal, CA 93204
Bus. 559-386-4444 Fax 559-386-4447
DATA FOR CALENDAR YEAR
2024
Month
Calls for Service Officer Initiated Activity Citations Traffic Collisions Arrests Field
Interviews
January 770 438 23 6 39 10
February 842 473 22 10 38 12
March 1019 664 18 12 33 1
April 919 530 28 14 32 2
May 958 569 25 10 30 0
June 816 456 30 5 26 0
July 804 406 12 0 20 1
August 1008 630 32 1 40 0
September 993 592 24 8 27 0
October 858 456 14 4 34 0
November 709 419 18 4 30 1
December 807 412 10 4 25 0
DATA FOR 2025
Month
Calls for Service Officer Initiated Activity Citations Traffic Collisions Arrests Field
Interviews
January 378 190 9 3 11 2
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
January 23, 2025 Pg. 98
City of Avenal
919 Skyline Blvd.
Avenal, CA 93204
Phone: (559) 386-5766
AGENDA ITEM NO. 6 – A-2
TO: The Honorable Mayor and City Council
FROM: Antony V. López, City Manager, by
Cecilio Velasco, Chief of Police
DATE: January 23, 2025
RE: Consider Recognizing Senior Officer Miguel Gracida as the Recipient of the 2024 Avenal Police Department Courage to Lead Award
INFORMATION:
The Avenal Police Department is proud to recognize Senior Officer Miguel Gracida as the recipient of the 2024 Avenal Police Department Courage to Lead Award. This prestigious award, first established on November 12, 2010, was initially created to honor the courage and leadership of the Avenal City Council in their unwavering commitment to the safety of the residents of Avenal.
Since its inception, the award has symbolized the values of courage, leadership, and dedication required to serve and protect our community. Senior Officer Gracida exemplifies these qualities in every aspect of his service.
In addition to his outstanding service as a police officer, Senior Officer Gracida is a Field Training Officer (FTO), a role that requires exceptional leadership, patience, and dedication. As an FTO, he has played a pivotal role in mentoring and training new officers, ensuring they are well-prepared to uphold the department's high standards. His commitment to developing future generations of officers reflects his dedication to the department and the community he serves.
Senior Officer Gracida’s actions consistently reflect the highest standards of professionalism and a deep commitment to the safety and well-being of the people of Avenal. His unwavering dedication to the principles of community policing and his willingness to lead by example make him a deserving recipient of this year’s Courage to Lead Award.
This recognition reaffirms the department’s commitment to highlighting individuals who uphold the ideals of courage and leadership that this award represents.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that the Avenal City Council recognize Senior Officer Miguel Gracida as the recipient of the 2024 Avenal Police Department Courage to Lead Award, honoring his exemplary service and dedication to the residents of Avenal.
FISCAL IMPACT:
None.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 99
Year Total
2019 44
2020 49
2021 38
2022 55
2023 29
2024 25
Year Total
2019
2020 1
2021 1
2022
2023
2024 1
Year Total
2019 0
2020 0
2021 0
2022 14
2023 5
2024 2
Year Total
2019 0
2020 0
2021 0
2022 2
2023 5
2024 0
Part 1 Property Crimes
0 10
20 30
40 50
60 1
Burglary
2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
0 0.5
1 1.5
2 2.5
3 3.5
4 4.5
5 Arson
2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
0 2
4 6
8 10
12 14
16 1
Motor Vechicle Theft
2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Series6
0 1
2 3
4 5
6 1
Larcery-theft
2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Series6
January 23, 2025 Pg. 100
Year Total
2019 0
2020 1
2021 0
2022 0
2023 2
2024 0
Year Total
2019 7
2020 3
2021 4
2022 3
2023 4
2024 2
Year Total
2019 2
2020 2
2021 4
2022 5
2023 1
2024 1
Year Total
2019 51
2020 32
2021 43
2022 40
2023 41
2024 48
Part 1 Violent Crimes
0 0.5
1 1.5
2 2.5
3 3.5
4 4.5
5 1
Murder
2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
0 1
2 3
4 5
6 7
8 1
Rape
2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
0 1
2 3
4 5
6 1
Robbery
2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
0 10
20 30
40 50
60 1
Assult
2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
January 23, 2025 Pg. 101
Date: January 23, 2025
To: The Honorable Avenal City Council
From: Kelsey George, City Planning Consultant
RE: Planning Activities
The following is brief summary of planning and zoning work conducted by our firm for the City of Avenal over the past two months:
• Respond to miscellaneous public and staff inquiries planning and zoning issues, processing of OpenGov Tasks, and reviewing business licenses. • Reviewing signage
• Code enforcement response letters – unpermitted storage on residential lots • Conditional Use Permit
• Second dwelling unit on property zoned D-C (Downtown Commercial) • Approved by Planning Commission in on 11/4/24
• Fresno and Kings County Boundary Change/Avenal Annexation • Continue to coordinate with applicable staff; meeting with Kings County LAFCo to discuss approach
• Working on application process and timeline to provide to City for review and get the application submitted
• Coordinate with Kings County on the Multi-Jurisdictional Housing Element • City Received Comment Letter from HCD on Draft Housing Element • More public outreach to be expected
• 7th Avenue General Plan Amendment and Rezone
• Proposed GPA and Rezone in process now to change property on the NEC of Laneva and 7th Avenue from Public Facility to Commercial • Slated for Planning Commission on March 3rd and City Council on March 27th • Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance
o New Ordinance is officially in effect.
o Processes for backyard chickens and food trucks are being rolled out.
SUMMARY OF
PLANNING AND
ZONING WORK
JANUARY 23RD , 2025 KELSEY GEORGE
CITY OF AVENAL
Planning Updates
I. Responses to miscellaneous public and staff inquiries II. Conditional Use permit
III. Fresno and Kings County Boundary Change/Avenal Annexation IV. Coordinate with Kings County on the Multi-Jurisdictional Housing Element
V. 7th Avenue General Plan Amendment and Rezone
VI. Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance
Backyard Chickens and Food Trucks
• Backyard Chickens
o Permitted in all residential zone
districts
o Subject to a Home Occupation
and annual inspection
o Process and procedure packet
prepared
• Food Trucks
o Permitted in R-2, R-3, and all other nonresidential zone districts o Requires an approved Administrative
Use Permit (AUP)
Has application procedure and
findings
Required to ensure the use meets the
specific standards that are specific to
that use
o Process and procedure packet prepared
BACKYARD CHICKENS
HOME OCCUPATION APPLICATION PACKET
Backyard Chickens in the City of Avenal
Interested in keeping backyard chickens? The City of Avenal is excited to support residents in keeping backyard chickens responsibly! This guide will walk you through the simple steps to start raising chickens on your residential property while complying with city regulations.
With an approved Home Occupation Permit, you'll enjoy the benefits of backyard chickens. Let’s get started! The steps required to keep backyard chickens are as follows:
STEP 1: Understand the Requirements
Before getting started, review the Backyard Chicken Ordinance found in Chapter 9.60.080 of the Avenal Municipal Code. This ordinance outlines:
• Maintenance requirements for backyard chickens.
• Prohibitions or restrictions on keeping chickens in residential areas.
STEP 2: Complete the Application
Fill out the Uniform Application Form available on the city's website or at City Hall. Be sure to:
• Select Home Occupation Permit on the application.
• Provide all required details to avoid delays in processing. Please utilize the ‘Project Description / Use Proposed’ section to clarify the number of chickens and coop dimensions you intend on building.
STEP 3: Schedule a City Inspection
Once your application is submitted, contact the Animal Control at 559-401-5163 to schedule an inspection. The inspector will:
• Ensure your property meets all requirements in the ordinance. • Check the setup of your chicken coop and surrounding area for compliance.
STEP 4: Obtain Final Approval
After passing the inspection, the City Manager will review your application for final approval. Once signed off, you're officially permitted to keep backyard chickens! STEP 5: Schedule Annual Inspection and Renew Permits
To maintain your Home Occupation Permit for backyard chickens, you must:
• Schedule an Annual Inspection: Contact the Animal Control annually and at least two weeks prior to the expiration of the backyard chicken home occupation to schedule an inspection. This ensures your property continues to meet all ordinance requirements. • Renew Your Permit: Complete the renewal process, including payment of applicable fees.
Failure to renew your permit by the required deadline will result in the revocation of your Home Occupation Permit. If this happens, you’ll need to reapply and pay all associated fees to reestablish your permit.
GENERAL INFORMATION
HOW-TO GUIDE: Backyard Chicken Approval Process
FREQENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ): Backyard Chickens
1. How many chickens can I have?
Local regulation allows residents to keep up to 6 chickens at any given time. This includes all chickens, regardless of age. Exceeding this limit may result in the revocation of the backyard chicken home occupation permit.
2. Are Roosters allowed?
No, roosters are not permitted any under circumstances. Additionally, the following activities are prohibited:
• Commercial sale of eggs
• Slaughtering processes at residential properties
3. How do I predator-proof my coop?
Here are a few tips to protect your chickens from predators:
• Raise the coop above ground level. Rasing the coop may discourage rats and other pests from entering the coop and stealing eggs, chicken feed, and even chickens.
• Bury mesh around the coop. Having at least a foot deep of mesh buried around the coop will prevent predators from digging and entering the coop from underneath.
• Hardware cloth. Utilize hardware cloth around the entire perimeter of the coop instead of chicken wire to keep chickens in and predators out. • Keep the coop clean. Make sure the chicken coop is well maintained and clear of food and waste, as well as plants and other shrubs to eliminate places for predators to hide.
4. How do I keep track of my annual inspection? Is there a fee? While the City will make every effort to send a reminder about your permit expiration, it is your responsibility to track and schedule the annual inspection before your permit expires.
The annual inspection carries a $50 administrative fee. If your permit expires, you must reapply and pay the full Home Occupation Permit fee to reestablish your backyard chicken permit.
STEP 1: Understand Requirements
STEP 2: Complete Application
STEP 3: Schedule Inspection
STEP 4: City Manager Approval
STEP 5: Annual Inspection and Renewal
MOBILE VENDORS & FOOD TRUCKS
ADMINISTATIVE USE PERMIT APPLICATION
Mobile Vendors in the City of Avenal
The City of Avenal now allows mobile vendors in all non-residential zones, provided they are approved through the City’s Administrative Use Permit (AUP) process! An application for a Mobile Vendor AUP must be complete in order for the City to accept and process the application.
Please review and fill out the checklist below to ensure that you have submitted all the required information. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Code Enforcement at 559-386-5766 or [email protected].
Please read through the entire document and ensure you’ve submitted the following:
1. Mobile Vending Checklist
2. Property Owner Consent Form
3. Applicable Kings County Permits (Health and Fire)
4. Uniform Application Form
5. Operational Statement
6. Site Plan/Plot Plan
All mobile vendors are required to comply with the applicable standards listed below. Please review each item and confirm that the proposed mobile vendor meets the criteria.
Mobile Vending Compliance I Understand
and
Acknowledge
N/A
The Mobile Vending operation will comply with Section 9.60.190 of the Avenal Municipal Code.
☐ ☐
An approved Administrative Use permit is required. Approval is contingent on a complete application and will be issued only after the application and supporting materials are submitted and reviewed. ☐ ☐
In accordance with the adopted ordinance in Kings County, all mobile food preparation vehicles/carts must apply for a permit with the Kings County Fire Department and the Kings County Department of Health on an annual basis. Proof of permits is required prior to final approval of a Mobile Vending Administrative Use Permit. ☐ ☐
GENERAL INFORMATION
MOBILE VENDING CHECKLIST
Operational Criteria and Requirements I Understand
and
Acknowledge
N/A
The proposed mobile vendor must be parked entirely on private property and will not obstruct any street, roadway, crosswalk, fire hydrant, parking stall, trash enclosure, bus stop or any other amenity or improvement as deemed applicable by the City.
☐ ☐
The proposed mobile vendor must not park or operate in a manner that restricts access (ingress and egress) to public right-of-way or to adjacent property.
☐ ☐
The proposed mobile vendor must provide a visible trash receptable for use by customers and patrons. Further, the mobile vendor must keep the subject property free and clear of any trash or litter and regularly dispose of any trash that results from the mobile vending operation.
☐ ☐
No activity may occur outside of the before 8:00am or after 10:00pm. ☐ ☐ Mobile vendors are not permitted to store any vehicles or equipment at the vending site overnight. All vehicles must be properly towed out and stored at the end of each day.
☐ ☐
Mobile vendors are not permitted to sell non-food items, except those deemed to be ancillary or accessory to the primary mobile vendor, provided sales do not exceed more than 10% of the annual gross revenue. Ancillary or accessory items may include things like merchandise and other items.
☐ ☐
Mobile Vendors are not permitted within 100-feet of an existing brick and mortar restaurant; nor are they permitted within 100-feet of another existing mobile vendor.
☐ ☐
Only one mobile vendor is permitted on a site or parcel at any one time.
☐ ☐
No mobile vending operations are permitted to use city utilities at any time. Mobile vendors are required to be self-contained, using their own equipment, such as a built-in food truck generator. ☐ ☐
Application Submittal Materials Submitted N/A
Completed Uniform Application (attached) ☐ ☐
Applicable Kings County Permits (Fire and Health Departments) ☐ ☐ Vehicle Insurance – General Liability Insurance
Seller’s Permit – See information here
Property Owner Consent Form (attached) ☐ ☐
Operational Statement:
Please provide a written description of the mobile vending operation.
Include details like business name and owner information, food being sold, hours of operation, number of employees, sanitation plan, waste disposal plan, and any other relevant details to supplement your application.
☐ ☐
Site Plan/Plot Plan:
Please provide an aerial image or site drawing depicting the proposed location of the mobile vendor in relation to any other required information (existing buildings, driveway(s), parking stalls, trash can/receptable, etc.).
At minimum, the site plan/plot plan should contain the following information:
a. Name and address of the legal owner of the site, and of the applicant, if not the owner.
b. Address of the property,
c. Assessor’s Parcel Number (APN).
d. Date, north arrow and scale of drawing.
e. Dimension of the exterior boundaries of the site.
f. Name all adjacent streets, roads, or alleys, showing and right-of-way widths,.
g. Locate and give dimensions of all existing and proposed structures on the property. Indicate the height and depth of the buildings and their distances to at least two (2) property lines.
h. Show access, internal circulation, parking and loading spaces. Detail off-street parking, exits and entrances, complete with dimensions and numbers of parking spaces, including handicapped spaces. i. Show all fences, walls and landscaping.
☐ ☐
Mobile Vending Checklist (attached) ☐ ☐
Filing fee of $345 ☐ ☐
Failure to comply with any of the above requirements may result in the revocation of the Mobile Vending Administrative Use Permit.
All mobile vendors are required to operate on private property (not on public streets, alleys, parks and other public property). In addition to the Uniform Application Form, the owner of the property where the vendor will operate must consent in writing to the mobile vendor operating on their private property.
1. The undersigned is the owner or authorized agent of the owner of this property.
2. The information presented is true and correct to the best of my knowledge.
3. Public Record. I understand that any information provided becomes part of the public record and can be available to the public for review.
4. Owner/Agent Authorization. If the applicant is not the Property Owner, both the Property Owner and Applicant must sign this affidavit. By signing this affidavit, the Property Owner authorizes the Applicant listed in this application to act as the Property Owner’s agent on all matters in connection with this application.
PROPERTY OWNER
Property Owner’s Name (printed):
Property Owner’s Address (Number, Street, City, State, Zip):
As owner of the property listed above, I authorize the following mobile vendor (enter vendor’s name here)
to operate at this location.
Property Owner’s Signature:
Date:
PROPERTY OWNER CONSENT FORM
The CrisCom Company –
City of Avenal Update
January, 2025
Legislative Update:
As we begin 2025, the California State Legislature has kicked off its new two-year session, which runs from 2025-2026. The legislative process is already in full swing, with numerous bills being introduced in both the Assembly and Senate. As of mid-January, 392 bills have been introduced in the current session, covering a wide range of topics that will shape California's future.
At the federal level, the U.S. Congress has taken action to avoid a government shutdown.
In December 2024, both the House and Senate passed a Continuing Resolution (CR) that extends federal funding through March 14, 2025. This stopgap measure, signed into law by President Biden, ensures that critical government functions will continue uninterrupted for the next few months. The CR provides temporary funding at current levels while Congress continues to negotiate the fiscal year 2025 federal budget. This extension is particularly important for maintaining essential services and programs that impact state and local governments, including California. It's important to note that if Congress fails to pass a comprehensive funding bill or another CR by March 14, 2025, there is still a risk of a government shutdown. This situation will require continued attention from both lawmakers and the public as the deadline approaches.
CrisCom is committed to ensuring the City of Avenal's priorities remain front and center in both state and federal conversations. On January 23rd, our team will meet with the offices of Senator Hurtado and newly elected Assemblymember Macedo in Sacramento.
These discussions will focus on making sure that our priorities are at the front of the line for 2025 district budget requests.
Sacramento Snapshot:
CrisCom will be tracking the bills most important for the City of Avenal to stay aware of and will provide updates in our Sacramento Snapshot that is sent out bi-weekly. If there are specific bills or topics the City would like to monitor, please do not hesitate to let us know so we can add them to the list.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 102
Economic Development Update:
We continue to contact various venues, from movie theatres to food establishments and clothing stores. While many of these companies have stated that Avenal is not on their radar, we are resilient with our engagement to ensure we are at the forefront and they are familiar with our City. The economic climate is always changing, which we know how to maneuver. We have diligently worked with a handful of vendors, hoping Avenal will gain a National fast-food chain, and in turn, will spark interest in other businesses coming to Avenal. As such, now more than ever, the City must show they are great business partners and eager to see new development within the City. Additionally, as a substantial portion of fast-food restaurants are franchises, our team is working on contacting their franchise directors to put Avenal on their radar. We are also working directly with the City to help create interest in its citizens becoming franchise owners.
Grant Writing Update:
A member of the CrisCom team attends bi-weekly staff meetings to help administer grants and keep the department heads aware of any potential grant funding opportunities they might be interested in for any citywide projects. As always, our team continues to research numerous grant funding opportunities.
Upcoming:
• Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) discretionary grant program - Due January 30th
We will continue to keep the City Manager apprised of all grant opportunities, and another other issues and/or updates relating to the City.
January 23, 2025 Pg. 103
KCBH Report
Avenal City Council
PRESENTED BY KINGS COUNTY BEHAVIORAL HEALTH
January 23, 2025 Pg. 104
Agenda
2 Welcome & Introductions
Updates from 2024
Next Steps & Questions
Ø Kings County Behavioral Health
• Kings County Behavioral Health Contracted Providers:
v Kings View Adult Mental Health Services
v KIND Center Children’s Mental Health Services
v Aspiranet Children’s Full Services Partnership Program v Champions Adult Substance Use Disorder Services
v WestCare Adolescent Substance Use Disorder Services
January 23, 2025 Pg. 105
KCBH Goals & Action Items
1. Services need to be accessible to community members within the City of Avenal (Partially complete)
2. County Behavioral Health and Contracted Providers need to have a clear physical presence at community events and build relationships with the community (Complete and ongoing)
3. Provide consistent and clear communication and marketing about how to access services, and when and where they are available (Complete and ongoing)
4. A large sign with information about services (Complete)
5. Provide in-community access to crisis services (Complete)
6. Clarify Local Outreach to Survivors of Suicide (LOSS) services (Complete and ongoing) 3 January 23, 2025 Pg. 106
Goal 1: Access to In-Person Services in Avenal –
Children and Youth Primary Prevention & Early Intervention u KCBH contracts with the California Health
Collaborative (CHC) for school-based
mental health and substance use disorder
prevention services.
u The following services were provided by
CHC to Avenal Schools and Students:
u MH Services provided at Tamarack, Avenal, and
Kettleman City Elementary include Mindful
Schools Lessons, Peaceful Corners, School-wide
assemblies, Pro-Social Groups, Staff and Teacher
trainings, and Family Wellness Fairs
u SUD Services provided at Reef-Sunset Middle
School, Sunrise High School, and Community
Day School include Youth Summit, Youth Life
Skills Group, Family Strengthening Group, and
Friday Night Live Chapter
4 January 23, 2025 Pg. 107
Goal 1: Access to In-Person Services in Avenal
– Children and Youth Mental Health
u Children’s Outpatient Mental
Services provided by TURN’s
KIND Center are available in
Avenal to any youth who would
like to receive their services by
KIND at their school or in
community-based locations.
u 49 Avenal youth served by the
KIND Center
u Primarily provided by KIND at the
school
u KIND also provides services at the
Avenal Family Education Center
(FEC)
5 January 23, 2025 Pg. 108
Goal 1: Access to In-Person Services in Avenal
– Children and Youth Mental Health
u Children’s Full-Service
Partnership Services are
provided by Aspiranet and are
available in Avenal to any
enrolled youth who would like to
receive their services at their
school or in community-based
locations.
u This program serves a smaller number of youth
because it’s a higher level of care than that of KIND
services, for those who clinically need a higher level of care.
u Of all enrolled, 12 youth are receiving services in
Avenal through field-based sites such as schools,
homes, etc.
u There have been 806 total services to youth in Avenal from July 2023- December 2024, which include
individual therapy, rehab sessions, and parent support. 6 January 23, 2025 Pg. 109
Goal 1: Access to In-Person Services in Avenal
– Adolescent Substance Use Disorder Services
u Adolescent Outpatient
Substance Use Disorder (SUD)
services provided by WestCare
are available through the
Hanford office.
u Currently, Avenal adult residents can call (559)
584-8100 or walk-in to schedule an
appointment for SUD services at the
WestCare Main office 410 E 7th St. Hanford.
u In 2024, WestCare served 12 Avenal
individuals including but not limited to
individual or group counseling sessions
focusing on recovery skills, managing
addiction triggers, and relapse prevention.
7 January 23, 2025 Pg. 110
Goal 1: Access to In Person Services in Avenal
– Adult Mental Health
u Adult Outpatient Mental Health
services provided by Kings View
restarted in-person services at
the Public Health Clinic in Avenal
since January 2023.
u Kingsview is on site twice a week and as
needed. There is public access Monday
through Friday during regular business hours
to reach Kingsview staff.
u Since July 2024 through December 2024, 65
Avenal residents have been served receiving a
total of 1,084 services including assessment,
therapy, case management, psychiatry,
nursing, and crisis.
8 January 23, 2025 Pg. 111
Goal 1: Access to In Person Services in Avenal
– Adult Mental Health
u Adult Full Services Partnership and
ACT Outpatient Mental Health
services provided by TURN
Behavioral Health for those with
engagement barriers and who
would benefit from more frequent,
field-based services.
u This program serves a smaller number of
adults because it’s a higher level of care, for
those who clinically need a higher level of
care.
u 5 Avenal adults were served through FSP and
1 through ACT, receiving services primarily at
field-based sites such as the client’s home.
9 January 23, 2025 Pg. 112
Goal 1: Access to In Person Services in Avenal
– Adult Substance Use Disorder Services
u Adult Outpatient Substance Use
Disorder (SUD) services provided
by Champions are available
through the Hanford location.
However, in early to mid 2025, an
Avenal SUD service location for
adults will open. (Inside Grigsby's)
u Currently, Avenal adult residents can call (559)
583-9300 or walk-in to schedule an
appointment for SUD services at the Hanford
Champions location, 311 N Douty St.
u In 2024, Champions served 18 Avenal
individuals through individual or group
counseling sessions focusing on recovery
skills, managing addiction triggers, and
relapse prevention.
10 January 23, 2025 Pg. 113
Goal 1: Access to In Person Services in Avenal
– Adult Substance Use Disorder Services
u Adult Residential Substance Use
Disorder (SUD) services provided
by Champions are available
through two Hanford locations
(one for Women the other for
Men).
u Currently, Avenal adult residents can call (559)
583-9300 or walk-in to schedule an
appointment for SUD services at the Hanford
Champions location, 311 N Douty St.
u In 2024, Champions served 12 Avenal
individuals through the 2 residential facilities.
11 January 23, 2025 Pg. 114
Goal 1: Access to In Person Services in Avenal
– One Number, All Access
u As of December 31, 2024, there is one
number anyone in Kings County can call
anytime to receive information on how
to access services (Access Line), to talk to
a listening ear (Warmline), and to receive
Mobile Crisis Services (Crisis Line).
u 24-hours-a-day/7-days-a-week
u Access Services
u Listening Ear
u Crisis Support
12 January 23, 2025 Pg. 115
Goal 2: Participation in Community
Events
u KCBH participated in the following
16 Events:
1. Amazing Fitness Challenge, March 13, 2024
2. Spring Fest (Kettleman City), March 20, 2024
3. Spring Wellness Fair (Kettleman City), April 9,
2024
4. Spring Block Party, April 17, 2024
5. SURG Health & Wellness Week (Avenal HS),
April 17, 2024
6. GEAR UP Health & Resource Fair, April 20, 2024
7. Mental Health Awareness Pop-Up Booth
(Family Engagement Center), May 10, 2024
8. Mental Health Awareness Pop-Up Booth
(Kettleman City FRC), May 15, 2024
9. Aria Summer Health Fair (Kettleman City), May
30, 2024
10. Back to School Extravaganza, Aug 5, 2024
11. Back to School Bash (Kettleman City), Aug 6, 2024
12. Suicide Prevention Walk, Sept 7, 2024
13. Mental Health Awareness Resource Booth
(Avenal Elementary), Sept 11, 2024
14. Community Night Out, Sept 25, 2024
15. Fall Harvest (Kettleman City), Oct 16, 2024
16. Avenal High School Career Day, Nov 20, 2024
13 January 23, 2025 Pg. 116
Goal 2: Participation in Community
Events
u CHC (SUD Prevention) participated
in the following 14 Events:
1. Cara y Corazon Family Group, January 2024
2. FNL Meeting, February 9, 2024
3. SOL Youth Family Education Night, March 13,
2024
4. FNL Meeting, March 21, 2024
5. Cara y Corazon Family Group, April 2024
6. FNL Meeting – Earth Day, April 19, 2024
7. FNL Meeting – Tobacco Prevention Loteria w/
KCTCP, May 3, 2024
8. FNL Meeting – KCTCP Training Day ,
May 17, 2024
9. SOL Youth: CA PREP Program – Educate
to Empower Event: Resource Showcase, June
28, 2024
10. FNL Meeting, May 31, 2024
11. FNL Meeting, July 5, 2024
12. FNL-SOL Youth: Avenal City Council Meeting
with Kings County Tobacco Control Program, July
11, 2024
13. SOL Youth: Kings County Voices of
Resilience Project, Aug 5, 2024
14. Cara y Corazon Family Group, September 2024
14 January 23, 2025 Pg. 117
Goal 3: Clear Communication on
Accessing Services
Ø KCBH has created and distributed flyers about how to access mental health treatment, substance use disorder treatment, crisis services, warm line, and a dedicated line to reach out with any concerns.
Ø Distributed in 16 community locations including: Amigo Market, Avenal Adult School, Avenal City Hall, Avenal High School, Avenal Police Department, Circle K, County Human Services Office, Dollar General, Family Education Center, Hearthstone Village Apartments, Reef-Sunset Middle School, Saint Joseph Catholic Church, Tamarack Elementary School, Villa Esperanza Apartments, Veterans Memorial Hall & Senior Center, and Westview Apartments.
Ø Mailed with the April 2024 Utility bill to all Avenal residents with City Utilities.
Ø Delivered to Aria for use at the Avenal Location.
15 January 23, 2025 Pg. 118
16 January 23, 2025 Pg. 119
Goal 3 & 4: Clear Communication on
Accessing Services & Large Sign
Ø Digital Signs in Avenal
Ø County partnered with City of Avenal
for the purchase of 2 digital signs,
which City of Avenal will purchase,
place, and maintain.
Ø NEW! As of 12/23/24 The first sign
on Kings Street and Skyline Blvd. Is
constructed and ready for content.
Ø Information dissemination at the
Department
Ø KCBH maintains a desk guide for all
County staff who cover front desk,
pertaining to availability of services
throughout the County.
Ø KCBH maintains its website to ensure
telephone access numbers are clearly
identified at the top of home page.
17 January 23, 2025 Pg. 120
Goal 5: Access to Crisis Services
u NEW! As of December 31, 2024, there is one
number anyone in Kings County can call anytime
to receive information on how to access services
(Access Line), to talk to a listening ear
(Warmline), and to receive Mobile Crisis Services
(Crisis Line).
u 24-hours-a-day/7-days-a-week
u Access Services
u Listening Ear
u Crisis Support
18 January 23, 2025 Pg. 121
Goal 5: Access to Crisis Services 19
January 23, 2025 Pg. 122
Goal 6: Local Outreach to Survivors of
Suicide (LOSS) Team
Ø KCBH operates a delayed response model
Ø LOSS Team is notified by the Kings County Coroner
Ø LOSS Team connects with contacts provided by the Coroner, and others as requested by the beavered.
Ø Any person in Kings County who has lost someone to suicide may reach out to Polo Ortiz at [email protected] or 559-852-2234 to request short term therapy.
Ø NEW! Survivors of Suicide Loss (SOSL) Support Group
Ø 1st Wednesday of each month, 5:30pm to 7:30pm
Kings County Behavioral Health building, 1222 W Lacey Blvd., Hanford, CA 93230 20 January 23, 2025 Pg. 123
Next Steps
u Work with City Manager regarding sending advertisement and messaging from Behavioral Health and the County to the Avenal Digital Sign u Continue to identify and develop locations for Mobile Crisis Team and Adult Substance Use Disorder Outpatient Services
u Work with Avenal Schools to connect Adolescent Substance Use Disorder services to youth
u Send 24/7 Call Center and Mobile Crisis Flyer to Avenal Residents through postal mailers or City Utility Mail
u Update and redistribute Avenal Flyers that have other resources (add new 24/7 number)
21 January 23, 2025 Pg. 124
22 Questions?
Thank you
January 23, 2025 Pg. 125
AGREEMENT FOR SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER SERVICES BETWEEN
Reef-Sunset Unified School District and The City of Avenal This Professional Services Agreement (hereinafter “Agreement”) is made and entered between the City of Avenal, a municipal corporation (hereinafter “City”), and the Reef Sunset Unified School District (hereinafter “District”). City and District are referred to individually as “Party” and collectively as “Parties.
RECITALS
The following recitals are a substantive portion of this Agreement:
A. District seeks to provide increased safety at its public schools by utilizing one (1) Avenal City Police Department Officer (“Officer”) designated and assigned by the City as School Resource Officer (“SRO”).
B. The City desires to assign and designate the Officer to serve as SRO.
C. The Parties do not intend this Agreement to create on the part of the City any duty of care that it would not owe in the absence of this Agreement other than the normal duty of care of a police officer or which is otherwise required by this Agreement. The Parties agree that the District does not delegate to the City the District’s duty to protect its students from foreseeable dangers and the District acknowledges that it is in the best position to access, discover, and prevent potential threats, however, the City acknowledges that the SROs are specifically trained in identifying and, in some circumstances, preventing threats. Accordingly, the District and City desire to create an atmosphere of cooperation toward the common goal of providing a safe learning environment for students and staff.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the recitals, covenants, terms, and conditions in this Agreement, the Parties agree as follows:
1. Term of Agreement. This Agreement shall be effective upon the ratification by District's Governing Board and approval by the Avenal City Council, and shall end on June 30, 2025, unless terminated in accordance with Section 17 below.
2. Scope of Service. The City agrees to assign one (1) sworn peace officer to serve as SRO at the District. The SRO will wear the regulation Avenal Police Department (“APD”) uniform and operate a marked APD patrol vehicle while on duty, unless otherwise authorized by a APD supervisor for a specific purpose. The SRO's duties shall include, but not be limited to:
a. Providing law enforcement expertise to assist school staff in maintaining safety at the school site.
b. Appropriate investigation and questioning of students and school staff to offenses related to crimes, operation of the school or incidents occurring at the school, especially in situations where a delay may result in danger to any person, flight from jurisdiction by the person suspected of a crime, or the destruction of evidence. c. Notifying the school principal as soon as practical of any significant law enforcement actions taken by the SRO or any other peace officer as known to the SRO.
Pg. 1
d. Avoiding involvement in school administrative searches unless specifically requested by the principal in order to provide security or handle contraband. Administrative searches will be directed and controlled by the school principal and will be based upon reasonable suspicion.
e. Monitoring the social and cultural environment around District to identify existing or emerging youth gangs. Gang prevention and early intervention strategies shall be coordinated between the City and District.
f. Becoming involved, through the school principal, with the school's curriculum and providing instructional presentations that enhance students' understanding of the law enforcement mission and the responsibilities of citizenship. g. Working to prevent juvenile delinquency and campus violence through close contact and positive relationships with students, serving as a positive role model. h. Attending suspension and expulsion hearings at the request of the school principal, being prepared to provide testimony on any actions taken by the Officer, and presenting any personally observed conduct of the student. The SRO shall make available any physical evidence seized by law enforcement and held by the City at expulsion hearings. i. Disseminating to school administrators and staff information on crime trends and changes in laws to assist them in establishing and maintaining safe school environments. j. Establishing and maintaining a collaborative partnership with the school administration to provide a safe environment, regularly communicating with school administration to share information and discuss issues of mutual interest. k. Increasing communications between law enforcement, students, school staff, and the community, and building positive working relationships with school staff and parents. l. District shall provide a dedicated office or cubicle space for the SRO at a location selected by District. This area shall be equipped with basic furniture, to allow the SRO to perform administrative duties, conduct meetings, and securely store necessary documents and/or equipment. However, the Parties expect the SRO to be on and patrolling the campus at a minimum before and after school and during student breaks, including the lunch hour. While students are in class, the SRO will be expected to be patrolling or doing paperwork in the dedicated office, unless there is an emergency which requires the Officer to be at the police station during the school day.
3. Student Discipline. Certified administrators of the District shall be responsible for student discipline and shall make all decisions regarding the imposition of discipline for students enrolled on their campus.
4. Hours of Employment. The SRO will work full-time (40 hours a week), except for annual leave allowances, during the normal school year schedule. For the purposes of this Agreement, "normal school year schedule" means the dates and times when school is in regular session and during which students are required to attend. "Normal school year schedule" does not include vacation periods, including, but not limited to, observed holidays, winter break, spring break, and summer break.
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The SRO may leave the campus during duty hours for breaks, lunch, or to submit necessary paperwork, obtain equipment, or attend to necessary business, provided that such absence is authorized by the Chief or his designee and advanced notice is provided to the school site principal. The SRO must inform the school principal or their designee prior to their departure and provide an expected return time. Such departures will be kept to a minimum and consolidated if possible, in order to prevent the SRO’s absence from the school environment. In the case of an emergency, the SRO may leave the campus immediately and shall notify the Chief or his designee and the school site principal as soon as practical.
5. Selection of Law Enforcement Personnel. The District will provide input regarding the selection of the SRO Program personnel as described herein.
It is understood and agreed that School Resource Officer personnel assigned to the District will normally be so assigned for a minimum of one year and maximum period of three (3) years with a possible one year extension at the direction of the City.
Notwithstanding this normal commitment, such personnel may be assigned to other duties within the Police Department for purposes of promotional opportunities, career advancement, or otherwise determined by the Chief, unless otherwise prohibited by law or City policy. The City shall provide the District Superintendent with prior notice regarding any person's reassignment from the District.
In the event that the District Superintendent believes that an SRO is not effectively or proficiently performing his/her duties or responsibilities, the District Superintendent or designee may notify the City in writing of the reasons the SRO is not effectively or proficiently performing his/her duties or responsibilities, and may also recommend that the SRO be removed from the District’s School Resource Officer program. Within ten (10) school days of such notice, the City or Chief shall meet with the SRO and the District Superintendent or their designee and attempt to mediate or resolve any problems which may exist. At such meeting, specified City, District, or site staff may also be present upon mutual agreement of the City and Superintendent or their designees. If, after reasonable attempts are made to mediate and resolve any issues that may exist, and if the issues cannot be resolved, then the SRO shall be removed from the SRO program at the request of the District Superintendent.
The City Chief, at their discretion, may dismiss or reassign the SRO based on departmental rules, regulations, administration reasons, and/or departmental directives, or when it is in the best interest of the City to do so.
In the event of resignation, dismissal, or reassignment of the SRO, or in the case of absence by the SRO, the City shall provide a temporary replacement of the SRO, and a temporary replacement for the SRO shall be made as soon as practical until a permanent replacement can be selected using the above process, if the SRO will not return.
6. Program Criteria. District and the City will work collaboratively to be responsive to evolving school and law enforcement requirements.
7. Training and Supervision. The SRO shall receive work assignments from the City and be supervised by the City Chief of Police ("Chief") or his designee. The City shall be responsible for training the SRO according to applicable law enforcement standards. The Superintendent of the District or designee will provide the Chief with information to assist Pg. 3
in evaluating the SRO. Any discipline problems or improprieties involving the SRO shall be brought to the attention of the Chief or his designee.
8. Employment. The SRO is an employee of the City and is not an employee or agent of District. The SRO shall be subject to the administration, supervision, and control of the City and to all City personnel policies and practices.
9. Student Records.
a. If confidential student record information is needed in an emergency to protect the health or safety of students or others, District may disclose to the SRO information necessary to respond to the emergency, considering the seriousness of the threat, the need for information to meet the emergency, and the urgency of the situation. b. Pursuant to California Education Code section 48902, the principal or designee shall notify the SRO of any student acts that may violate specified provisions of the California Penal Code and California Education Code. This may require disclosing the student's name or other identifying information to the SRO, along with information related to the underlying offense.
10. Law Enforcement Records and Juvenile Case File Information. Pursuant to California Welfare and Institutions Code sections 827, 828.1, and 828.3, certain law enforcement records, probation reports, and juvenile case file information may be provided to District's Superintendent or designee. The SRO may provide such information to the principal of the school in which a minor student is enrolled, and the principal shall be a designee of the Superintendent for the receipt of such information.
11. Cost. In exchange for the provision of SRO services, District shall pay the City as follows:
a. District shall pay no more than the equivalent of 50% of one SRO’s annual salary and benefits. This payment reflects the significant role and dedicated time the SROs spend on school-related duties during the school year, including the preparation, presence, and ongoing responsibilities that contribute to maintaining a safe school environment.
Therefore, based on the appropriate City MOU, the amount paid by the District for one Officer to serve as described in this Agreement shall not exceed $130,000. b. The City shall provide a monthly invoice and proof of SRO's salary and benefits. c. It is the intent of the parties that District shall only pay for the actual time during which the SRO, or a replacement SRO provided by the Chief at their discretion, performs SRO duties.
d. Any requests by the District for an SRO or any City employee to work overtime for any planned event must be submitted in writing to the Chief or their designee. This request should be accompanied by a signed purchase order approved by the principal or their designee. To ensure the availability of additional officers, a minimum of fourteen (14) days notice is required. The hourly rate for additional officers working overtime will be salary at time and a half, as per the APOA MOU. While the District can request the number of additional officers needed for each event, final approval and staffing decisions will be made by the Chief or their designee based on availability.
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All requests for overtime must be submitted in writing and approved by the Chief or their designee.
12. Feedback and Evaluation. District and the City agree on the importance of evaluating the SRO program. They will work together to develop and implement procedures to provide feedback and evaluation data to measure the program's effectiveness.
13. Discrimination. Neither District, nor the City shall discriminate against any person on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, disability, marital status, age, sex, gender, gender identity, or sexual orientation.
14. Indemnification.
a. The District shall indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the City, its officers, agents, and employees from and against any and all claims, losses, liabilities or damages, demands and actions, including payment of reasonable attorneys’ fees, arising out of or resulting from the performance of this Agreement, caused in whole by any negligent or willful act or omission of the District, its officers, agents, employees, or anyone directly or indirectly acting on behalf of the District.
b. The City shall indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the District, its officers, agents, and employees from and against any and all claims, losses, liabilities or damages, demands and actions, including payment of reasonable attorneys’ fees, arising out of or resulting from the performance of this Agreement, caused in whole by any negligent or willful act or omission of the City, its officers, agents, employees, or anyone directly or indirectly acting on behalf of the City.
c. If an indemnifying party defends or prosecutes any third party claim, the indemnified party will reasonably cooperate in the defense or prosecution thereof and will furnish such records, information, and testimony, provide such witnesses and attend such conferences, discovery proceedings, hearings, trials, and appeals as may be reasonably requested in connection with such third party claim. Such cooperation will include access during normal business hours afforded to the indemnifying party to, and reasonable retention by the indemnified party of, records and information that are reasonably relevant to such third party claim, and making the indemnified party and its employees and agents available on a mutually convenient basis to provide additional information and explanation of any material provided hereunder.
d. It is the intention of the District and City that, where fault is determined to have been contributory, principles of comparative fault will be followed and each party shall bear the proportionate cost of any damage attributable to the fault of that party, its officers, directors, agents, employees, volunteers, subcontractors, and governing board. e. Each party shall immediately notify the other party of any claims or legal actions arising out of the performance of this Agreement. With the exception of claims or actions against one another, each party will reasonably cooperate in the defense of claims or actions against either party arising under this Agreement or legal challenges brought as to the validity of the Agreement.
f. The provisions of this indemnity shall survive the expiration or termination of the Agreement.
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15. Applicable Laws. The City shall provide services specified in this Agreement in accordance with applicable federal and state statutes, regulations, and directives.
16. Amendments. No modification, amendment, or addendum to this Agreement shall be valid unless it is set forth in writing and signed by the Parties' authorized representatives.
17. Entire Agreement. This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between District and the City regarding the subject matter of this Agreement and supersedes all previous SRO agreements.
18. Termination.
a. Either Party may suspend the performance of the services, in whole or in part, or terminate this Agreement, with or without cause, by giving thirty (30) days prior written notice thereof to the other Party. Upon receipt of such notice, City will immediately discontinue its performance of the Services. b. Upon such suspension or termination by either Party, City will be paid for the Services rendered or materials delivered to District in accordance with the Scope of Services on or before the effective date (i.e., thirty (30) days after giving notice) of suspension or termination.
19. Severability. If any term or provision of this Agreement is determined to be unlawful or in conflict with any law of the State of California or applicable federal law, the validity of the remaining portions or provisions shall not be affected. Each term or provision of the Agreement shall be valid and enforced as written to the fullest extent permitted by law.
20. District Insurance. The District shall, throughout the duration of this Agreement, maintain insurance to cover the District, its agents, representatives, and employees in connection with the performance of services under this Agreement at the minimum levels set forth herein.
a. Commercial General Liability (with coverage at least as broad as ISO form CG 00 01 01 96) “per occurrence” coverage shall be maintained in an amount not less than $4,000,000 general aggregate and $2,000,000 per occurrence for general liability, bodily injury, personal injury, and property damage.
b. Automobile Liability (with coverage at least as broad as ISO form CA 00 01 07 97, for “any auto”) “claims made” coverage shall be maintained in an amount not less than $1,000,000 per accident for bodily injury and property damage. c. Workers’ Compensation coverage shall be maintained as required by the State of California.
d. Professional Liability “claims made” coverage shall be maintained to cover damages that may be the result of errors, omissions, or negligent acts of District in an amount not less than $1,000,000 per claim.
e. Endorsements. District shall obtain endorsements to the automobile and commercial general liability insurance policies with the following provisions:
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The City (including its elected officials, officers, employees, agents, and volunteers) shall be named as an additional “insured.”
For any claims related to this Agreement, District coverage shall be primary insurance with respect to the City. Any insurance maintained by the City shall be excess of the District’s insurance and shall not contribute with it.
f. Notice of Cancellation. District shall notify the City if the policy is canceled before the expiration date. For the purpose of this notice requirement, any material change in the policy prior to the expiration shall be considered a cancellation. District shall immediately obtain a replacement policy.
g. Authorized Insurers. All insurance companies providing coverage to District shall be insurance organizations authorized by the Insurance Commissioner of the State of California to transact the business of insurance in the State of California. h. Insurance Certificate. District shall provide evidence of compliance with the insurance requirements listed above by providing a certificate of insurance and endorsements, in a form satisfactory to the City, before the City signs this Agreement. i. Substitute Certificates. District shall provide a substitute certificate of insurance no later than thirty (30) days prior to the policy expiration date of any insurance policy required by this Agreement.
21. District’s Obligation. Maintenance of insurance by the District as specified in this Agreement shall in no way be interpreted as relieving the District of any responsibility whatsoever (including indemnity obligations under this Agreement), and the District may carry, at its own expense, such additional insurance as it deems necessary. Failure to provide or maintain any insurance policies or endorsements required herein may result in the City terminating this Agreement.
22. City Insurance. The City shall, throughout the duration of this Agreement, maintain insurance to cover the City, its agents, representatives, and employees in connection with the performance of services under this Agreement at the minimum levels set forth herein. a. Commercial General Liability (with coverage at least as broad as ISO form CG 00 01 01 96) “per occurrence” coverage shall be maintained in an amount not less than $4,000,000 general aggregate and $2,000,000 per occurrence for general liability, bodily injury, personal injury, and property damage.
b. Automobile Liability (with coverage at least as broad as ISO form CA 00 01 07 97, for “any auto”) “claims made” coverage shall be maintained in an amount not less than $1,000,000 per accident for bodily injury and property damage. c. Workers’ Compensation coverage shall be maintained as required by the State of California.
d. Professional Liability “claims made” coverage shall be maintained to cover damages that may be the result of errors, omissions, or negligent acts of City in an amount not less than $1,000,000 per claim.
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The District (including its elected officials, officers, employees, agents, and volunteers) shall be named as an additional "insured."
For any claims related to this Agreement, City coverage shall be primary insurance with respect to the District. Any insurance maintained by the District shall be excess of the City's insurance and shall not contribute with it.
f. Notice of Cancellation. City shall notify the District if the policy is canceled before the expiration date. For the purpose of this notice requirement, any material change in the policy prior to the expiration shall be considered a cancellation. City shall immediately obtain a replacement policy.
S. Aulhorized lnsurers. All insurance companies providing coverage to the City shall be insurance organizations authorized by the lnsurance Commissioner of the State of California to transact the business of insurance in the State of California. h. lnsurance Certificate. City shall provide evidence of compliance with the insurance requirements listed above by providing a certificate of insurance and endorsements in a form satisfactory to the District, before the District signs this Agreement.
Substitute Certificates. City shall provide a substitute certificate of insurance no later than thirty (30) days prior to the policy expiration date of any insurance policy required by this Agreement.
Notices. All notices concerning this Agreement shall be deemed to have been served when deposited in the United States Mail, first-class postage prepaid, and addressed as follows:
23 By:
City of Avenal
To City:
City Manager
City of Avenal
919 Skyline Boulevard
Avenal, California 93204
Juan Ruiz, Superintenden
The parties have executed this Agreement on the date written below.
Reef-Sunset Unifled School District
To Reef€unset:
Superintendent
Reef-Sunset Unified School District
1225 S. 7th Avenue
Avenal, California 93204
Date: ,/y'/ -Z-{--
By:
Antony V. L6pez, City Manager
Date:
e. Endorsements. City shall obtain endorsements to the automobile and commercial general liability insurance policies with the following provisions:
- :-
-
/--.-
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AGREEMENT FOR SCHOOT RESOURCE DEPUW SERVICES
BETWEEN
Reef-Sunset Unified School District (Avenal High School) & The County of Kings
This agreement is made by and between the Reef-Sunset Unified School District, Avenal High School ("Reef-Sunset") and the County of Kings, on behalf of the Kings County Sheriff's Office ("Office") on the subject of School Resource Deputies ("SRD") and is dated for reference purposes as of September 25, 2023.
Recitals
A. Reef-Sunset and the Office desire to set forth the duties and responsibilities of the parties with respect to the SRD Program.
B. Reef-sunset and the Office desire to create an atmosphere of cooperation toward the common goals of providing a safe learning environment for students and staff.
C. Reef-Sunset and the Office desire to promote positive relationships between the school, law enforcement and the community.
Reef-Sunset and the Office agree as follows:
1. Term of Agreement. This agreement shall be effective upon the ratification by Reef-Sunset's Governing Board and approval by the Kings County Board of Supervisors, and shall cover services rendered from September 25,2023, through June 7,2024.
2. Scope of Service. The Office agrees to assign one (1) sworn peace officer to serve as the SRD at Reef-Sunset. The SRD will wear the regulation Office uniform and operate a marked Office patrol vehicle while on duty, unless otherwise authorized by an Office supervisor for a specific purpose. The SRD's duties shall include but not be limitedto:
SRD will provide law enforcement expertise to assist the school staff in maintaining safety at the school site.
b. The SRD's investigation and questioning of students and school staff shall be limited to offenses related to the operation of the school or occurring at the school, except in situations where a delay in investigation or questioning may result in the danger of any person, flight from the jurisdiction by the person suspected of a crime, or the destruction of evidence.
c. The SRD shall notify the school principal as soon as practical of any significant law enforcement actions taken by the SRD or any other peace officer as known to theSRD. a
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d. The SRD shall not become involved in school administrative searches unless specifically requested by the principal in order to provide security or to handle contraband. School administrative searches will be at the direction and control of the school principal and will be based upon reasonable suspicion.
e The SRD shall be responsible for monitoring the social and cultural environment around Reef-Sunset to identify existing or emerging youth gangs. Gang prevention and early intervention strategies shall be coordinated between the Office and Reef-Sunset. f. The SRD may become involved, through the school principal, with the school's curriculum and provide instructional presentations that enhances the students' understanding of the law enforcement mission and the responsibilities of citizenship. g. The SRD will work to prevent juvenile delinquency and campus violence through close contact and positive relationships with students. The SRD will serve as a positive role modelto students.
h. At the request of the school principal, the SRD shall attend suspension and expulsion hearings. The SRD shall be prepared to provide testimony on any actions taken by the deputy and on any personally observed conduct of the student witnessed by the deputy.
The SRD shall make available at expulsion hearings any physical evidence that has been seized by law enforcement and is held by the Office.
i. The SRD shall disseminate to school administrators and staff information on crime trends and changes in laws to assist them in establishing and maintaining safe school environments.
j. The SRD will work to establish and maintain a collaborative partnership with the school administration to provide a safe environment. The SRD will regularly communicate with the school administration in an effort to share information and discuss issues and concerns of mutual interest.
k. The SRD will work to increase communications between law enforcement, students, school staff, and the community. The SRD will work to build positive working relationships with the school staff and parents.
3. Student Discipline. The certified administrators of Reef-Sunset shall be responsible for student discipline and shall make all decisions regarding the imposition of discipline for students enrolled on their campus.
4. Hours of Emplovment. The SRD willwork full-time (40 hours a week), except for annual leave allowances, during the normal school year schedule. For the purposes of this agreement, "normal school year schedule" means the dates and times when school is in regular session and during which students are required to attend. "Normal school year schedule" does not include vacation periods, including, but not limited to, observed holidays, winter break, spring break, and summer break.
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5 Selection of Law Enforcement Personnel. The Office will be responsible for selecting which Office employee will serve as the SRD, or the acting SRD for days when the designated SRD may be on leave, absent for training, or otherwise not available. Reef-Sunset may provide input regarding the selection of the SRD.
6. Program Criteria. Reef-Sunset and the Office will work collaboratively to be responsive to evolving school and law enforcement requirements.
7. Training and Suoervision. The SRD shall receive his or her work assignments from the Office and shall be supervised in the performance of SRD duties by the Sheriff of Kings County ("Sheriff") or his designee. The Office shall be responsible for training the SRD according to applicable law enforcement standards. The Superintendent of Reef-Sunet or his/her designee will provide the Sheriff with information to assist in evaluating the SRD. Any discipline problems or improprieties involving the SRD shall be brought to the attention of the Sheriff or his designee.
8. Employment. The SRD is an employee of the Office and is not an employee or agent of Reef-Sunset. The SRD shall be subject to the administration, supervision, and control of the Office. The SRD shall be subject to all personnel policies and practices of the Office.
9. Student Records.
a. The parties agree that the SRD shall be deemed to be a "school official" for the performance of SRD duties on behalf of Reef-Sunset. The SRD shall therefore be allowed access to student records, but Reef-Sunset remains in direct control of the use, maintenance, and disclosure of student records in accordance with California Education Code 49075 and any other applicable provisions of law. School officials shall allow the SRD to inspect and copy any student records maintained by the school, for which the SRD has a "legitimate educational interest" within the scope of the SRD's service under this Agreement. This includes access to student directory information to the extent permitted by Reef-sunset's policy, classroom assignments, attendance records, and discipline files. However, the SRD may not inspect or copy confidential student records outside the scope of the SRD's service, except as allowed by law. b. lf confidential student record information is needed in an emergency to protect the health or safety of students or others, Reef-Sunset may disclose to the SRD information that is needed to respond to the emergency situation based on the seriousness of the threat to someone's health or safety, the need of the information to meet the emergency situation, and the extent to which time is of the essence. c. Pursuant to California Education Code section 48902, the principal or designee shall notify the SRD of any acts of a student that may violate specified provisions of the California Penal Code and California Education Code. This may require disclosure of the student's name or other identifying information to the SRD, along with information related to the underlying offense.
1,0. Law Enforcement Records and Juvenile Case File lnformation. Pursuant to California Welfare and lnstitutions Code sections 827,828.1,, and 828.3, certain law enforcement records, probation reports, and juvenile case file information may be provided to Reef-Sunset's Pg. 11
Superintendent or his/her designee. ln addition to providing such information directly to Reef-Sunet Superintendent, the SRD may provide such information to the Principal of the school in which a minor students is enrolled and the Principalshall be a designee of the Superintendent for the receipt of such information.
11. Cost. ln exchange for the provision of SRD services, Reef-sunset shall pay the Office as follows Fifty percent (50%) of the SRD's salary and benefits, as determined by the Kings County Board of Supervisors and subject to any approved increases. b. The parties shall meet prior to the adoption of their respective budgets to discuss the anticipated amounts for the upcoming fiscal year in order to ensureeach party allocates sufficient funds for the SRD position.
c. lt is the intent of the parties that Reef-Sunset shall only pay for the actual amount of time during which the SRD, or a replacement SRD provided by the Sheriff in his discretion, performs SRD duties.
12. Feedback and Evaluation. Reef-Sunset and the Office agree on the importance of evaluating the SRD program. Reef-Sunset and the Office will work together to develop and implement procedures to provide feedback and evaluation data for the purpose of measuring the p rogra m's effectiveness.
13. Discrimination. Neither Reef-Sunset nor the Office shall discriminate against any person in any way on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, disability, marital status, age, sex, gender, gender identity, or sexualorientation.
14. Indemnification.
a. Reef-Sunset shall indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the Office, its elected officials, officers, agents, and employees from and against any and all claims, losses, liabilities, damages, demands, actions, including payment of reasonable attorney's fees, arising out of or resulting from the performance of this agreement, caused in whole by any negligent or willful act or omission of Reef-Sunset, its officers, agents, employees, or anyone directly or indirectly acting on behalf of Reef-Sunset. b. The Office shall indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Reef-Sunset, its elected officials, officers, agents, and employees from and against any and all claims, losses, liabilities, damages, demands, actions, including payment of reasonable attorney's fees, arising out of or resulting from the performance of this agreement, caused in whole by any negligent or willful act or omission of the Office, its officers, agents, employees, or anyone directly or indirectly acting on behalf of the Office. c. lt is the intention of Reef-sunset and the Office that, where fault is determined to have been contributory, principles of comparative fault will be followed and each party shall bear the proportionate cost of any damage attributable to the fault of that party, its elected officials, officers, directors, agents, employees, volunteers, subcontractors, and governing board.
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d. Each party shall immediately notify the other party of any claims or legal actions arising out of the performance of this Agreement.
15. Applicable Laws. The Office shall provide services specified in this Agreement in accordance with any applicable federal and state statutes, regulations, and directives.
16. Amendments. No modification, amendment, or addendum to this Agreement shall be valid unless it is set forth in writing and signed by the parties' authorized representatives.
17. Entire Agreement. This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between Reef-Sunset and the Office regarding the subject matter of this agreement and supersedes all previous SRD agreements.
18. Severabilitv. lf any term or provision of this Agreement is determined to be unlawful or in conflict with any law of the State of California or applicable federal law, the validity of the remaining portions or provisions shall be affected. Each term or provision of the Agreement shall be valid and enforced as written to the fullest extent permitted by law.
19. Notices. All notices concerning this Agreement shall be deemed to have been served when deposited in the United States Mail, first class postage prepaid, and addressed as follows:
The parties have executed this Agreement on the date written below Reef-Sunset Unified School District
To Office:
Kings County Sheriff's Office
1550 Kings County Drive
Hanford, CA 93230
Juan Ruiz
Superintendent
County of Kings, on behalf of the Kings County Sheriffs Office Date
David Robinson
Sheriff-Coroner-Pu bl ic Adm i nistrator
Approved as to form:
Diane Freeman, County Counsel
To Reef-Sunset:
Reef-Sunset Unified School District
205 N. ParkAvenue
Avenal, CA 93204
By
By A* 4^'*-^'
o"t , t/tb(zi
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