AGENDA
ITEM
20 OF CAL
AGENDA
CALEXICO California ITEM
MEXICO MEET
20 CITY COUNCIL
AGENDA STAFF REPORT
DATE: September 02, 2026
TO: Mayor and City Council
Benjamin A. Martinez, City Manager Bu
APPROVED BY:
PREPARED BY: Norma Gerardo, Recreation Manager
09175002060408
SUBJECT: Receive and File Community Services Commission Minutes for Special Meeting of May 18, 2026, and Regular Meeting of July 08, 2026.
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Recommendation:
Accept Minutes for Community Services Commission Special Meeting held on May 18, 2026, and Regular Meeting held on July 08, 2026.
Background:
City staff shall prepare minutes for Community Services Commission meetings and present them to the Community Services Commission for approval. Once approved, a copy of the signed minutes is submitted for City Council ratification.
Discussion and Analysis:
On Wednesday, July 08, 2026, the Community Services Commission met and approved the minutes for the special meeting held on May 18, 2026.
On Wednesday, August 12, 2026, the Community Services Commission met and approved the minutes for the regular meeting held on July 08, 2026.
Minutes have been signed by Chair Patricia Ureña and are now submitted for ratification by the City Council of the City of Calexico.
Fiscal Impact:
None
Coordinated With:
None.
Attachments):
Minutes for Community Services Commission Special Meeting of May 18, 2026, and Regular Meeting of July 08, 2026.
ATTACHMENT #1
COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION
CALEXICO MINUTES
608 Heber Ave. Calexico, CA 92231
THE COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION MET IN SPECIAL SESSION ON THE 18th DAY OF MAY 2026 AT 5:01PM AT THE FERNANDO "NENE" TORRES COUNCIL CHAMBERS, 608 HEBER AVENUE, CALEXICO, CALIFORNIA. THE DATE, HOUR AND PLACE DULY
ESTABLISHED FOR THE HOLD OF SAID MEETING PURSUANT TO EXECUTIVE ORDER N-29-20.
CALL TO ORDER
A special meeting of the Community Services Commission was called to order on Monday, May 18, 2026, at 5:01 p.m. by Chairperson, Patricia Ureña.
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present:
Patricia Ureña
Christina M. Rojas
Antonio Garcia
Jaime Duron
Eugenio Ramos
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Commissioner Duron led the Pledge of Allegiance.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Vice-Chairperson Rojas made a motion to approve the agenda. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Duron. Motion passed unanimously.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
No public comments provided to the Commissioners.
RECREATION MANAGER REPORT
Norma Gerardo, Recreation Manager, reported that registration for the Summer Program begins at 8:00 a.m. on May 19, 2026, for seniors, and opens to the general public at 8:00 a.m. on May 20, 2026. Ms. Gerardo expressed appreciation to the commissioners who and noted that swall have been very busy responding to and hale thrustin and inquiries regarding registration. She announced that Noche Bohemia is scheduled for June 6, 2026, at 6 pm.
PUBLIC WORKS MANAGER REPORT
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COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION MINUTES
Lilliana Falomir, Public Works Manager, reported that the Grant Manager, Public Works Director, and Public Works Administrative Assistant submitted several applications to the Imperial Irrigation District (lID) through its Public Green Space Program. Falomir announced that the city was awarded $164,000 to install additional trees at Nostros Park, Las Casitas Retention Basin, Crummett Park, Plaza Park, and Kennedy's Garden.
She stated that an item will be presented to the City Council for acceptance of the grant award.
COMMISSIONER COMMENTS AND REPORTS OF MEETINGS/EVENTS ATTENDED Commissioner Rojas attended two City Council meetings, the City of Calexico's 118'h Anniversary celebration, and the City Council Special meeting. She noted that the Special Council meeting was particularly interesting.
Commissioner Garcia reported attending a 50th-year class reunion and visiting Rodriguez Park to observe the progress of the work currently being completed at the park.
Commissioner Ramos had no report.
Commissioner Duron commented that the Community Center has outgrown its current facility and suggested that the city consider exploring options for a new building or an expansion of the existing facility in the future.
Chairperson Ureña attended the 2:00 p.m. Basketball League Tournament game and thanked Coach Jamie for her dedication. She commented that it was a great game and expressed how encouraging it was to see the young athletes participating and showcasing their talents. Ms.
Ureña attended the opening of the Transit Center and noted that it is a beautiful new facility that will benefit the community and participated in a New River meeting to learn more about its operations and ongoing efforts. After that, she met with Congressman Ruiz to discuss community City Hall, participated in a community cleanup event at Rodriguez Park, and thanked the residents and volunteers who have continued to participate in park cleanup efforts and contribute to keeping the community clean and welcoming.
CONSENT AGENDA
1. Approval of Community Services Commission Minutes for Regular Meeting of April 08, 2026.
Vice-Chairperson Rojas made a motion to approve the Community Services Commission Minutes for the regular meeting of April 08, 2026. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Garcia. Motion passed unanimously.
DISCUSSION ITEMS
DISCUSSION AND POTENTIAL ACTION ITEMS
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COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION MINUTES
2. Rodriguez Park: Cost Estimate and Possible ARPA Reallocation Funding.
The following people provided public comments to the Commission: Jesus Solano.
Chairperson Ureña made a motion to bring the item back at a future meeting with cost estimates for irrigation lines for all trees and the installation of three-tier bleachers. Motion was seconded by Vice-Chairperson Rojas. Motion passed unanimously
3. Nosotros Park: Cost Estimate and Possible ARPA Reallocation Funding.
The following people provided public comments to the Commission: Jesus Solano.
Chairperson Ureña made a motion requesting cost estimates for the installation of a multi-use sports field, replacement of two dugouts, removal of existing exercise equipment, and installation of a water supply line behind the baseball field. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Duron. Motion passed unanimously.
4. Status Report on Heber Expansion Project.
Chairperson Ureña made a motion to continue the item and place it on the agenda for the next meeting in June. Motion was seconded by Vice-Chairperson Rojas. Motion passed unanimously.
5. Review Policy for Naming or Renaming City Facilities and City Parks.
Commissioner Duron made a motion to continue the item and place it on the agenda for the next upcoming meeting. Motion was seconded by Vice-Chairperson Rojas. Motion passed with the following vote to wit:
AYES: Ureña, Rojas, Garcia, Duron
NOES: Ramos
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
6. Refurbish / Expand Recreation Facilities with ARPA Funds.
No Reportable action.
7. Review of MOU with Vincent Memorial.
Chairperson Ureña made a motion to continue the item and place it on the agenda for the next meeting. Motion was seconded by Vice-Chairperson Rojas. Motion passed unanimously.
8. Review of Public Art.
No Reportable action.
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COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION MINUTES
9. Report on Friends of the Park and Recreation Status.
No Reportable action.
10. Nosotros Park Playground Options.
Commissioner Duron made a motion to not move forward with the recommendation for the playground project. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Ramos. Motion passed unanimously.
11. Go Dark in July and August.
Chairperson Ureña made a motion to table the item until the next meeting. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Duron. Motion passed unanimously.
12. Review Fee Structure for Use of Parks and Recreation Facilities.
No Reportable action.
INFORMATIONAL ITEMS
13. Reallocation of Border Friendship Park ARPA Funds.
14. Recreation Department Upcoming Event Flyers.
a. 2026 Summer Registrations.
b. 2026 Summer Program Brochure.
15. Attendance Report.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 6:44 PM by Chairperson Ureña.
Motion was seconded by Vice - Chairperson Rojas. Motion passed unanimously.
Catricia G Ureña 1/8/2026
Patricia Ureña, Chairperson
Attest: cuff
Ariana Hernandez, Administrative Assistant
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COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION MINUTES
COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION
CALEXICO MINUTES
608 Heber Ave. Calexico, CA 92231
THE COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION MET IN REGULAR SESSION ON THE 8' DAY OF JULY 2026 AT 5:07PM AT THE FERNANDO "NENE" TORRES COUNCIL CHAMBERS, 608 HEBER AVENUE, CALEXICO, CALIFORNIA. THE DATE, HOUR AND PLACE DULY
ESTABLISHED FOR THE HOLD OF SAID MEETING PURSUANT TO EXECUTIVE ORDER N-29-20.
CALL TO ORDER
A regular meeting of the Community Services Commission was called to order on Wednesday, July 08, 2026, at 5:07 p.m. by Chairperson, Patricia Ureña.
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present:
Patricia Ureña
Christina M. Rojas
Jaime Duron
Eugenio Ramos
Commissioners Absent:
Antonio Garcia
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Commissioner Ramos led the Pledge of Allegiance.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Commissioner Duron made a motion to approve the agenda. Motion was seconded by Vice- Chairperson Rojas. Motion passed unanimously.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
The following people provided public comments to the Commissioners: Jesus Solano and Angela Moreno.
RECREATION MANAGER REPORT
Norma Gerardo, Recreation Manager, reported that the Summer Recreation Program continues to be highly successful, with program enrollment at capacity and City recreation facilities experiencing full daily participation. The Recreation Manager provided the following updates on be held at the City Pool on Friday, July 31, 2026. The Summer Program End-of-Season Recitals are scheduled for Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at the Rodney Auditorium. The Pool Program 1 | Pa ge
COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION MINUTES
Closing Celebration, featuring a Family Fun Movie Night, will take place on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at the City Pool. Fall Recreation Program Registration will begin on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at 8:00 a.m. for senior participants, followed by General Public Registration on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at 8:00 a.m. The Recreation Manager advised that Commissioners will be contacted to assist with the registration process during these high-volume registration days. A Viva México Paint Night is also scheduled for Friday, August 28, 2026.
PUBLIC WORKS MANAGER REPORT
Lilliana Falomir, Public Works Manager, reported that routine maintenance of City parks and green spaces continues on a regular basis to ensure that all facilities remain safe and well- maintained for public use. Ms. Falomir further reported that, several months ago, the Grant Manager and the Public Works Administrative Assistant submitted multiple grant applications to the Imperial Irrigation District (IID) through the Green Light and Outdoor Wellness programs.
The City has since received 50% of the awarded grant funding and has begun the procurement process for lighting improvements at five City parks, Rancho Frontera, Casitas, Rodriguez, Nosotros, and Heber.
COMMISSIONER COMMENTS AND REPORTS OF MEETINGS/EVENTS ATTENDED Commissioner Rojas attended two City Council meetings. She also participated in the City's Community Outreach events held at Heber Park on May 28 and Rancho Frontera on June 1.
She stated that both outreach events were informative, provided valuable information to the community, and offered a positive opportunity for residents to engage with City staff and learn about available programs and services.
Commissioner Ramos reported that, while he has not recently participated in activities in his capacity as a Commissioner, he has remained actively involved in community improvement efforts as a private resident. He stated that he has been volunteering his time to assist with the removal and covering of graffit at Nosotros Park and emphasized that these efforts are being undertaken solely in his capacity as a resident of the community, not as a representative of the Commission or the City. Commissioner Ramos further shared that he has created a social media page to document and highlight community improvement.
Commissioner Duron reported that he assisted staff during the June recreation program registration. He stated that the registration process was well organized, efficient, and completed promptly. Commissioner Duron commended Recreation Department staff for their preparation and efforts, noting that the registration process went smoothly and provided a positive experience for participants.
Chairperson Ureña reported that she attended
opportunities through the LA84 Grant Opportunities Recreation Support Program. She noted that she was pleased to see Recreation Manager Norma Gerardo in attendance as well. The webinar provided valuable information on funding opportunities for recreational facilities that could help address sports programming. Chairperson Ureña also reported that she participated in the community cleanup event at Nostros Park, supporting efforts to improve and beautify the park. Ms. Ureña further reported that she attended a follow-up meeting with Parks and 2 | PaRe
COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION MINUTES
Recreation staff regarding potential park improvement projects to be funded through the Statewide Park Development and Community Revitalization Program (Statewide Park Program) Grants. During the meeting, three project sites previously approved by the City Council were identified, and staff discussed plans to schedule upcoming community outreach meetings to gather public input. Chairperson Ureña advised that at the June 17 City Council meeting, the City Council authorized the Grant Manager to proceed with evaluating three potential project sites: Rodriguez Park, Reisen Park, and Rockwood Park. Lastly, Chairperson Urena reported that she met with Commissioner Duron and Recreation Manager Norma Gerardo to discuss the Vincent Memorial Park Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
CONSENT AGENDA
1. Approval of Community Services Commission Minutes for Special Meeting of May 18, 2026.
Commissioner Ramos made a motion to approve the Community Services Commission Minutes for the special meeting of May 18, 2026. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Duron. Motion passed unanimously.
DISCUSSION ITEMS
DISCUSSION AND POTENTIAL ACTION ITEMS
2. Mural Project Cycle 9.
Commissioner Ramos made a motion to submit a Recommendation to the City Council to Approve and Release Community Mural Project Cycle 9 for a Total Cost of Up to $ 29,000.00, and to Approve the Community Mural Project Program Documents and to Authorize the City Manager to Execute All Related Agreements and Documentation. Motion was seconded by Chairperson Ureña. Motion passed unanimously.
3. Review Policy for Naming or Renaming City Facilities and City Parks.
No reportable action.
4. Go Dark in August.
Commissioner Duron made a motion to not go dark in August. Motion was seconded by Vice- Chairperson Rojas. Motion passed unanimously
INFORMATIONAL ITEMS
5. Heber Park Expansion Project.
6. Nosotros Park.
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COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION MINUTES
7. Rodriguez Park and Baseball Field.
8. Social Media Policy for Members of Legislative Bodies.
9. Update on MOU with Vincent Memorial.
10. Recreation Department Upcoming Events.
a. Call for Artists: Youth Art Contest at the Border.
11. Attendance Report.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 6:30 PM by Vice - Chairperson Rojas. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Duron. Motion passed unanimously.
Eatricia G Urena
Patricia Ureña, Chairperson
Attest: Cutt
Ariana Hernandez, Administrative Assistant
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COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION MINUTES