AGENDA ITEM NO. 5.
– A.
CITY OF AVENAL
SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 4, 2025; 5:30 P.M.
AVENAL THEATER & EVENT CENTER, 233 E. KINGS ST., AVENAL, CA
MINUTES
CALL TO ORDER & PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Led by Mayor Preciado at 5:37 p.m.
ROLL CALL: Councilmembers: Ricardo Verdugo, Pablo Hernandez, David Reynosa, Mayor Pro Tem M. Leticia Gamez, Mayor Alvaro Preciado.
ABSENT: None.
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.
STAFF PRESENT: Lopez, Price, Ortiz, Arellano.
PUBLIC COMMENT/ANNOUNCEMENTS & UNSCHEDULED APPEARANCES:
Mayor Preciado opened Public Comment at 5:41 p.m.
Carlos Saldana expresses concern about the state of democracy and the wellbeing of the community, urging individuals to prioritize constructive, respectful dialogue. He criticizes certain actions by local leaders, such as collecting signatures for a petition in a biased manner and failing to be neutral. He also mentions an experience where he was blocked from sharing a recall poster on the city’s Facebook page, which he views as censorship. This incident strengthens his resolve to advocate for positive change in his community.
Dalila Barajas expressed concern that users were blocked from the City of Avenal’s Facebook page after posting a recall flyer. She emphasized the importance of allowing residents to express both positive and negative views about the city and stated that this falls under freedom of speech. She requested that any blocked individuals be unblocked and suggested caution moving forward to avoid infringing on public dialogue.
The IT Manager Naranjo and City Manager Lopez clarified that the City of Avenal operates under a social media policy, which is publicly available on the city’s website and Facebook “About” section key points from the policy:
The city’s social media channels are not public forums but moderated discussion spaces. The purpose of the pages is to provide official updates and encourage respectful and constructive engagement regarding city services, programs, and events. The City reserves the right to remove or restrict content that violates these terms. Users are encouraged to review the full policy and reach out with any questions.
Shelia Verdugo resident, 208 S Corcoran Ave. Mrs. Verdugo proposed a memorial or commemorative marker at the outdoor event bandstand to honor Harlan G. Casida, who served the city as a teacher, coach, athletic director, councilman, and city manager. Mrs. Verdugo highlighted Mr. Casida’s lasting impact on the community, especially on local youth, and emphasized his values of service, education, and community spirit. She believes the bandstand is a fitting location due to its connection with events he held dear. She offered support from herself, Councilman Verdugo, and possibly other councilmembers in moving the tribute forward and noted the family would be happy to assist with design and planning.
Mrs. Verdugo concluded that Mr. Casida exemplified the values of service, education, and community spirit, and stated that the bandstand would be a meaningful location for the tribute, as it is closely tied to events such as Pistachio Days and Cruise Nights, which he deeply valued. Mrs. Verdugo concluded and expressed her personal Joint Meeting City Council/Successor Agency
August 4, 2025 - Page 2 of 6
commitment to the project, along with support from Councilman Verdugo and potentially other councilmembers.
Mrs. Verdugo indicated that Mr. Casida’s family would be willing to assist with design ideas and planning.
Megan Gilbert expressed concern over the lack of mutual respect among community members. She pointed out the hypocrisy of some individuals demanding respect while engaging in disrespectful behavior themselves specifically citing incidents of people following others home while they are with their children and yelling obscenities without provocation. Mrs. Gilbert acknowledged that going door-to-door to collect signatures for a recall is acceptable but criticized individuals who become upset when others do the same. Mrs. Gilbert emphasized that it is unacceptable to follow or harass anyone due to differences in opinion and stated she is disappointed by the way people are treating each other. She concluded by saying she is done with the situation, referencing an incident on 208 West Side Street.
Veronica Aguirre raised concerns about potential hydrogen projects reportedly being planned within the City of Avenal. She referenced comments made by the Mayor at the previous City Council meeting and expressed frustration about the lack of transparency and public information surrounding these discussions. After conducting her own research, Ms. Aguirre spoke with the CEO of a hydrogen company who claimed a project is planned within city limits, despite there being no Environmental Impact Report (EIR), permits, or official documentation. She also contacted the city’s planning consultant agency, who confirmed they had no information and requested that she share any findings.
Mrs. Aguirre concluded by emphasizing the potential health, environmental, and safety risks associated with hydrogen projects, particularly if pursued without proper public engagement and oversight. She cautioned against corporations viewing the community as easily exploitable and stressed the need for a qualified, well-prepared fire department to manage such high-risk developments. Mrs. Aguirre urged the Council to prioritize transparency, community input, and responsible planning moving forward.
City Manager Lopez thanked Ms. Aguirre for her comments and acknowledged the validity of her concerns. He clarified that any significant project, including hydrogen developments, would require extensive public input and a thorough CEQA (California Environmental Quality Act) review. He stated that the company she spoke with is not one the City has been in discussions with, noting that multiple organizations have expressed early interest due to the gas pipeline running through Avenal. The City has had only preliminary discussions with a couple of entities and has clearly communicated the need for transparent, public-facing processes if any project moves forward.
City Manager Lopez reaffirmed that the Mayor's previous mention of hydrogen was intended to initiate public dialogue, not indicate a finalized project.
The City Council went into Closed Session at 6:05 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
Mayor reopened the regular City Council meeting at 7:20 p.m. with nothing to report out of Closed Session and continued with the meeting.
NEW BUSINESS
A. Consider Entering into Fire Services Agreement with Kings County Fire Department for an Additional Three (3) Years, FY 2025/26; 2026/27; & 2027/28 (Discussion/Action) Resolution 2025-38 Joint Meeting City Council/Successor Agency
August 4, 2025 - Page 3 of 6
City Manager Lopez reported to the City Council on the final draft of the Fire Services Agreement with Kings County Fire, following Council’s direction from the June 12, 2025, meeting. Staff, in collaboration with the City Attorney, submitted a revised agreement to the County that included:
Stronger protections for the City.
Expanded service and incident data reporting.
A request for more detailed property tax use explanations was rejected by the County.
The final draft agreement (Attachment A) covers a four-year term from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2028. The City of Avenal will continue receiving fire services under the 2-0 staffing model (Fire Captain and Engineer), with no additional personnel or service enhancements beyond the prior year.
City Manager Lopez highlighted the significant cost increases, especially for FY 2025–26:
FY 2024–25 (retroactive): $450,000 direct payment, with an additional $25,000 owed FY 2025–26: $1,096,310 direct cost – a 143.6% increase from the prior year Annual increases thereafter are capped at approximately 5%, excluding COLAs Total cost to the City over four years: Approximately $3.8 million The report also included a new resolution amendment, ensuring that residents will be notified at least 30 days in advance through appropriate public channels if the City intends to cancel or not renew the agreement.
City Manager Lopez recommended adoption of the agreement and amendment as presented. Two resolutions were presented: 1) Primary Resolution: Approves the continuation of fire services under the updated terms; 2) Amendment: Includes Council directed language requiring that prior to any formal notice of cancellation or nonrenewal of the agreement, the City will make reasonable efforts to notify the Avenal community at least 30 days in advance using appropriate and available public channels. City Manager Lopez confirmed that the updated resolution and amendment were published and distributed ahead of the meeting, in compliance with transparency requirements.
Councilman Verdugo stated “the challenges in the process over the past few months but expressed gratitude to the county for their continued support in providing fire services. He emphasized the importance of notifying citizens in the future before any decisions are made regarding the fire services contract, ensuring the community has a chance to voice their opinions”. Councilman Verdugo concluded by expressing his support for approving the contract and the amendment to the resolution as presented.
RESOLUTION 2025-38: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF A VENAL ENTERING INTO A FOUR (4) YEAR AGREEMENT WITH KINGS COUNTY FOR FIRE SERVICES
WITHIN THE CITY OF AVENAL AND, FURTHER, AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR TO SIGN AND EXECUTE AGREEMENT ON BEHALF OF THE CITY. Councilman Verdugo motion to approve, seconded by Councilman Reynosa and motion carried.
ROLL CALL VOTE:
AYES: Verdugo, Reynosa, Hernandez, Gamez, Preciado.
NOES: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
ABSENT: None.
Mayor Preciado opened public time to comment at 7:20 p.m.
Dalila Barrajas is expressing concerns about the financial handling of fire department services. She believes there's confusion around the budget allocation, specifically how the property tax and general funding are being reported and combined. She suggests that the total costs, which seem to add up to $875,000 (from $425,000 and $450,000), should be covered by Measure A funds, which were passed to help with emergencies and public services like fire services. Mrs. Barajas points out that the Measure A tax, which brings in more revenue than initially estimated Joint Meeting City Council/Successor Agency
August 4, 2025 - Page 4 of 6
($900,000 instead of $400,000–$500,000), should be used to cover fire services and other city needs. Mrs. Barajas I conclusion feels that City Hall should be responsible for funding fire services rather than relying on external contributions, noting that the county has been helpful, but it’s time for the city to pay its fair share. She believes the funds from Measure A should be used properly for the benefit of the citizens.
Dalila Barajas, a resident, addressed the City Council with comments and questions regarding the financial reporting of the Fire Services Agreement with Kings County. She expressed appreciation for the council’s efforts but raised concerns about how the total cost of the agreement was being presented to the public. Mrs. Barajas noted the following:
The estimated total cost of $1.5 million for fire services includes both the City’s general fund contribution and property tax revenue, but she believes these should be shown separately for clarity. She calculated that the City’s share—$425,000 (General Fund) plus $450,000 (property tax portion)—totals approximately $875,000 and questioned the remaining balance in the $1.5 million figure. She emphasized that Measure H, passed by voters to help fund public safety and other city services, was intended to bridge this funding gap and is currently generating close to $900,000 annually, exceeding original revenue projections.
Ms. Barajas argued that the City has a responsibility to fully fund fire services and noted that Kings County has been more than fair in past contract negotiations.
She urged the City to utilize Measure H funds as intended—to support emergency services, infrastructure, and community needs—and stated that now is the time to prioritize funding public safety appropriately.
City Manager Lopez responded by clarifying the cost breakdown:
The $1.096 million listed for FY 2025–26 represents the City’s direct contribution, not including property tax.
The estimated property tax contribution is included in the total cost presentation to fully reflect the County’s calculation of the station’s operating cost, which totals approximately $1.5 million. He acknowledged that the County has stated they may reassess or withdraw property tax support in the future, which is why staff believes it is important to recognize the full operational cost to the City.
City Manager Lopez added that the figures have been included in the council meeting packets and have also been shared publicly online to ensure transparency.
Rita Wallace, resident of 1036 E Whitney St., asked for clarification on whether the City Council had officially signed the fire services contract with Kings County. Ms. Wallace then questioned whether the City Council could still reject the agreement if they were dissatisfied with any changes the County might propose. Ms. Wallace expressed strong concern that failure to approve the contract would result in loss of life, holding the Council accountable if public safety was jeopardized due to inaction. She stated: “If we don’t keep that fire department here, we’re going to lose lives. And are you guys willing to pay for it? People will come after you if you don’t sign the contract.” Mrs. Wallace also raised concerns about new water basins being installed along the Avenue cutoff, suggesting they might be related to a hydrogen gas project.
City Manager Lopez explained that the Council approved the agreement as presented by the County, with no additional changes, and the signed agreement would be sent back to the County before Thursday for their final approval at their next meeting on August 14, 2025. He clarified that both parties must sign the agreement for it to be finalized. City Manager Lopez responded that the County is not proposing any new changes; the version approved by the Council reflects the County’s final proposal, and the current step is formal countersignature. City Manager Lopez clarified that the basins are not related to any hydrogen projects, and that the issue was outside the scope of the current meeting’s agenda.
Shelia Verdugo reiterated the importance of community engagement and transparency if the City ever revisits plan to create its own local fire department. She emphasized:
Joint Meeting City Council/Successor Agency
August 4, 2025 - Page 5 of 6
Any future departure from the Kings County Fire contract should be accompanied by adequate town halls, public notice, and a fully developed plan.
The previous attempt at forming a fire department appeared to lack comprehensive planning. If the City proceeds again, it must clearly present how it will fund, staff, train, and sustain its own fire services.
Mrs. Verdugo requested detailed public presentations, not just social media posts, to ensure the community can understand, ask questions, and provide input.
City Manager Lopez responding to Mrs. Verdugo’s question on contract costs. City Manager Lopez clarified the breakdown of the fire services agreement with Kings County Fire, using the FY 2025–26 budget figures as an example:
Direct payment by the City (General Fund): $1,096,310 Estimated County contribution (via property tax revenue): $432,799 Total estimated cost of fire services: $1,529,110
Key clarifications included:
The City is only paying the first line the General Fund amount. The property tax line represents revenue already allocated by the County, not a direct cost to the City. However, the County has indicated they could redirect that property tax revenue in the future, which is why it's noted in total cost projections.
For now, the contract locks in the City’s costs for the next three years, and there is no expectation that the County will withdraw its property tax support.
City Manager Lopez noted that including total cost figures helps demonstrate the full value of fire services and encourages fiscal awareness and long term planning in the event external funding changes.
Mayor Preciado addressed public concerns and clarified that Measure A is not a special tax measure, but a general tax measure. Under California law, a special tax must be spent only on the specific uses listed in the ballot measure.
In contrast, a general tax, like Measure A, allows funds to be used for a broader range of general government services. The measure identified intentions to support services such as police, fire, animal services, streets, and beautification projects, but it is not legally restricted to those areas. Preciado reiterated that the intent of Measure A was to help supplement city services not to fund 100% of any one department.
City Attorney Moses Diaz further explained the following: Measure A was approved as a general fund revenue measure. Although the voter materials reference public safety and infrastructure, the funds are not legally bound to any one use. This flexibility allows the city to adapt spending based on evolving community needs, as determined by the City Council.
Dalila Barajas, resident, referred to the original Measure A ballot language and campaign materials, pointing out:
The measure clearly listed public safety, animal control, street repair, and other local services as targeted areas.
She questioned why, in her view, there appears to be imbalance in allocation, with police receiving a larger share, while animal control and street maintenance remain underfunded. Barajas expressed that, considering the fire services cost, Measure A should be helping offset fire service costs.
She reminded the Council that residents supported the measure during difficult post-COVID recovery years and expect the city to honor the stated uses.
Mayor Preciado responded by sharing background on the fire services negotiations:
The County had consistently communicated that fire service costs would be around $1.5M to $1.6M. Early negotiations included Chief Flores and Kyria Martinez, County Administrative Officer.
Joint Meeting City Council/Successor Agency
August 4, 2025 - Page 6 of 6
The City made efforts to negotiate cost reductions, but the County rejected changes to key terms, including data sharing and cost allocation.
The current agreement, as approved by the City Council, will now go to the County for final approval.
Chief John Chamberlin addressed the Council and public with key clarifications and acknowledgments:
He thanked the Council for moving forward with the contract approval. Noted that Avenal, like other jurisdictions, is facing higher costs due to countywide operational needs — total fire department operations run around $21 million. He clarified that Avenal receives certain unique financial considerations, including:
o A waiver of $150,000+ in overhead costs (e.g., administration, chief salaries). o No fire inspection fees charged to businesses in Avenal. o The County absorbs costs related to equipment depreciation, station maintenance, and workers’ compensation.
Chief Chamberlin reported regarding data/reporting requests, he explained:
Some contract language changes were necessary due to federal data protection laws (e.g., HIPAA). Incident data involving personal identifiers or private addresses cannot be shared as originally requested. Chamberlin emphasized his openness to communication, offering his availability to clarify information or resolve concerns.
Mayor Pro Tem Leticia Gamez stated "Hello, good afternoon. I have something I’d like to say in front of everyone here today. I’ll be reading it to make sure I don’t leave anything out. I understand that there are differences of opinion on certain issues, and that’s okay. What’s not okay and what I find deeply disrespectful, disgusting, and disappointing is the way some members of our community have chosen to express those opinions. I’ve been a part of this community for over 16 years. I’ve made a home here. My children attend school here. I work here. I know many of you. However, there are people who do not know me, and I do not know them who have approached me in front of children and elderly residents, using foul and inappropriate language. I don’t deserve that. I ran for City Council to make a difference. Yet recently, people have been following me, parking in front of my house, and just sitting there, watching me and my children making me fear for our safety. While I was having a simple conversation with a neighbor an elderly woman these same individuals began shouting foul language, not only at me, but in a way that made her feel unsafe as well. That’s what I needed to say. Thank you." ADJOURNMENT.
There being no further business, the City Council meeting was adjourned at 7:55 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
_________________//s//
Maria Ortiz, City Clerk