CITY OF CITRUS HEIGHTS
CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES
Regular Meeting of Wednesday, August 27, 2025
City Hall Council Chambers
6360 Fountain Square Dr., Citrus Heights, CA
CALL REGULAR MEETING TO ORDER
The regular meeting was called to order at 6:01 p.m. by Mayor Karpinski-Costa.
The Flag Salute was led by Council Member Middleton.
Roll Call: Council Members present: Middleton, Nelson, Schaefer, Lopez-Taff, Karpinski-Costa Council Members absent: None
Staff Members present: Blomquist, Brown, Cave, Feeney, Jones, Kempenaar, Lowe, Talwar, Turcotte, Van, and department directors.
3. The video statement was read by City Clerk Van.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
ACTION: On a motion by Council Member Schaefer, seconded by Vice Mayor Lopez-Taff, the City Council approved the agenda.
AYES: Middleton, Nelson, Schaefer, Lopez-Taff, Karpinski-Costa NOES: None
ABSENT: None
PRESENTATIONS
4. Proclamation honoring Renee Larscheid for 38 years of service to the Citrus Heights Chamber of Commerce
Mayor Karpinski-Costa read the Proclamation and Ms. Larscheid addressed the Council. Sheri Merrick, Citrus Heights Chamber Executive Director, thanked Renee for all of her assistance as she started her tenure. She expressed appreciation for Renee's historical knowledge and love for the community. City Council comments followed. Representatives from Congressman Bera, Senator Niello and Assemblyman Hoover's offices and Sacramento County Supervisor Rodriguez presented Renee with certificates and resolutions of recognition.
5. Presentation by Campus Life Connection on their Fiscal Year 2024/2025 Nonprofit Community Support Grant
Campus Life Connection Executive Director Ed Kaczmarek and Sayonara Center Director Eleazar Jones provided an update on how the grant funds were used to support low income, vulnerable and at-risk youth. It was reported that 52 families are registered for the program.
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Citrus Heights City Council Wednesday, August 27, 2025
PUBLIC COMMENT
Charles Stone, Commander of American Legion Post 637, provided an update on the Battle of the Bands & BBQ fundraiser.
Melissa Hayden of Citrus Heights Rescues Animals spoke about the need for low cost spay and neuter programs.
City Clerk Van read the following written public comment submitted by Hailey Polansky, "Residents of Alta Vista Ln., Marsala Ct. and Madison Vista have an ongoing and growing issue with street parking and public safety on the south side of Alta Vista Lane, west of Almaden. This dead-end section has become an unofficial public parking area, creating serious concerns for residents. Residents have signed a petition in agreement that something needs to be done, see attached export from Change.org.
We are experiencing alarming activity that is only increasing. These safety issues include individuals living in vehicles for multiple days, abandoned non-operational cars being left for days or weeks, open visible drug use in parked vehicles, discarded drug paraphernalia, litter, and even human waste.
Additionally, disturbances and altercations involving non-residents have become more frequent.
We're asking for collaboration between the community and the City to establish a balanced solution that ensures safety while preserving reasonable access for legitimate use of residents. Thank you" City Clerk Van read the following written public comment submitted by Sara Wheeler, "I am writing to say that I hope the City adopts the proposed amendment to the shopping cart ordinance, clarifying that possessing a shopping cart without the business owner's written consent is a violation. This change would simplify enforcement by removing the need for officers to prove the cart was stolen from the business. We lose so many carts and they are extremely expensive to replace." City Clerk Van read the following written public comment submitted by Gigi Rayford, "Good evening Council Members, On behalf of the CH 40 Arts District I want to say thank you to the City of Citrus Heights and our community for the incredible support at our launch this past Saturday. Our grand opening was such a success and it was amazing to see so many people come together to celebrate the start of this new chapter for our city. The murals already going up are more than paint on a wall they are symbols of pride, creativity and collaboration. They show what's possible when art and community come together. We want to give a special a thank you to our Council-members, city staff, Senator Roger Niello, and Sac Metro Fire Station #27 for joining us in person. Your support means so much to this art movement. We also want to thank our local businesses Ciro's Pizza Café, DarkHeart Brewery, Bear Paw Outlet, all of the vendors and the the community at large for being part of the day and showing how the arts and local business go hand in hand. Most importantly, we want to thank our artists. They have given their time, talent, and passion to bring this vision to life. They're helping to build not just an arts district, but a lasting legacy for Citrus Heights. We're excited for what comes next, and we look forward to building something meaningful together."
COMMENTS BY COUNCIL MEMBERS AND REGIONAL BOARD UPDATES
Council Member Nelson attended a Sacramento Transportation Authority meeting. She hosted a Town Hall at a Neighborhood Area 1 - Northwest meeting. She participated in a tour of the Citrus Heights Police Department's new Emergency Communications Center and attended City Scoop. She went to the
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Citrus Heights City Council Wednesday, August 27, 2025
Best of Citrus Heights awards and attended a reception with Mayor Karpinski-Costa for the new Executive Director at the Crocker Art Museum.
Council Member Schaefer took part in the wall-raising for the Sayonara Drive Habitat for Humanity development. He attended a Sacramento Area Council of Governments (SACOG) meeting. He went to the Best of Citrus Heights.
Council Member Middleton participated in the wall-raising for the Sayonara Drive Habitat for Humanity development. She attended a Cal Cities Equity Advisory Committee meeting. She went to the unveiling of the Lincoln Highway sign at San Juan High School. She congratulated the Citrus Heights Police Department for winning the "Best Government Services" award at Best of Citrus Heights.
Vice Mayor Lopez-Taff reported on attending Southgate Library's 50th Anniversary celebration. She also attended common events with the rest of the Council Members.
Mayor Karpinski-Costa went to the reception at the Crocker Art Museum with Council Member Nelson.
City Hall will be closed on Monday, September 1, and Council Member Schaefer will fill in at Monday with the Mayor on September 8. She went to a Sacramento Indian Association celebration of India Day at Jessup University. She attended a Sylvan Old Auburn Road (SOAR) meeting where the president of the Homeless Assistance Resource Team (HART) spoke. She attended a meeting of the Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito & Vector Control Board and provided an update on West Nile Virus cases this year.
CONSENT CALENDAR
6. SUBJECT: Approval of Minutes
RECOMMENDATION: Approve the Minutes of the Meeting of August 13, 2025 SUBJECT: Arcade Creek Repairs at Mel Court - Final Acceptance and Notice of Completion STAFF REPORT: R. Cave / L. Blomquist / D. Kehrer
RECOMMENDATION: Adopt Resolution No. 2025-066, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, California, Accepting the Arcade Creek Repairs - Mel Court Project as Complete and Authorizing the City Engineer to record a Notice of Completion and Release the Contract Retention
SUBJECT: Revision to Regional Board Appointments
STAFF REPORT: A. Van
RECOMMENDATION: Adopt Resolution No. 2025-067, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, California, Appointing a Citrus Heights Member to Serve as the Representative on the Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District (SMAQMD) Board of Directors
9. SUBJECT: Second Reading - Ordinance Amending Citrus Heights Municipal Code Chapter 38 - Fire Prevention and Protection, Article III. - Fireworks, Sections 38-69 and 38-81 and Ordinance Amending Citrus Heights Municipal Code Chapter 50 - Nuisances, Article VII. - Shopping Carts, Section 50-905
STAFF REPORT: A. Turcotte / J. Aguilar / W. Dunning / R. Jones RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends the following:
-
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Citrus Heights City Council Wednesday, August 27, 2025
a. Adopt Ordinance No. 2025-004, An Ordinance of the City of Citrus Heights Amending Citrus Heights Municipal Code Chapter 38 - Fire Prevention and Protection, Article III. - Fireworks, Sections 38-69 and 38-81; and
b. Adopt Ordinance No. 2025-005, An Ordinance of the City of Citrus Heights Amending Citrus Heights Municipal Code Chapter 50 - Nuisances, Article VIl. - Shopping Carts, Section 50- 905
ACTION: On a motion by Council Member Schaefer, seconded by Council Member Nelson, the City Council adopted Consent Calendar Items 6, 7, 8 and 9.
AYES: Middleton, Nelson, Schaefer, Lopez-Taff, Karpinski-Costa NOES: None
ABSENT: None
Prior to the Regular Calendar, Mayor Karpinski-Costa continued her report and made announcements about free adoptions at the Bradshaw Animal Shelter; the Habitat for Humanity home repair loan program; and that she received an invitation to speak in Japan at the United Nations University. She will not be able to attend, because she will be at the League of California Cities Annual Conference.
REGULAR CALENDAR
10. SUBJECT: Approval of Economic Development Support Fund Grant Request by the Citrus Heights Chamber of Commerce
STAFF REPORT: M. Huber
RECOMMENDATION: Adopt Resolution No. 2025-068, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, California, Approving a $25,000 Grant to the Citrus Heights Chamber of Commerce from the Economic Development Support Fund
Economic Development & Community Engagement Director Huber introduced the item and reported that the funds will be used for the return of Leadership Citrus Heights. Chamber Executive Director Merrick provided a presentation recapping the Chamber's growth, partnerships and events over the past year.
City Council questions and comments followed.
ACTION: On a motion by Council Member Schaefer, seconded by Council Member Nelson, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 2025-068, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, California, Approving a $25,000 Grant to the Citrus Heights Chamber of Commerce from the Economic Development Support Fund
AYES: Middleton, Nelson, Schaefer, Lopez-Taff, Karpinski-Costa NOES: None
ABSENT: None
11. Old Auburn Road Property
a. SUBJECT: Field Haven Feline Center Proposed Lease Agreement for 7555 Old Auburn Road
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STAFF REPORT: A. Feeney / J. Lowe
RECOMMENDATION: Adopt Resolution No. 2025-069, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, Authorizing the City Manager to Execute a Lease Agreement with Field Haven Feline Center for the Operation and Management of 7555 Old Auburn Road City Manager Feeney acknowledged Customer Service Representative Lowe for her work on this project.
He provided a presentation, noting that this is a unique opportunity for a public-nonprofit partnership on animal services delivery, which is in high demand, but challenging to execute. This item is consistent with the City Council's 2024 Strategic Objective to enhance animal services. He noted that the City has an obligation under its incorporation documents to provide animal services and sheltering services. The most recent contract with Sacramento County has seen costs increase two-fold in one year. Field Haven Feline Center approached the City about leasing a building and the discussion was brought to a public meeting on March 26, 2025. City Manager Feeney reviewed the services to be provided; the proposed lease terms for an 18-month pilot program; and the community outreach done. He addressed concerns expressed by the community and described the future potential of the program.
Makenna Gwaltney, Field Haven Feline Center Executive Director, and Dr. Kristina Netherwood presented on their proposal and gave an overview of Field Haven's mission and achievements. They thanked all those who submitted letters of support and responded to City Council questions.
The City Council took a brief recess at 7:44 p.m. and reconvened at 7:55 p.m.
Public Comment
Written public comments received between the agenda posting on August 22 and the City Council meeting were provided to the Council, posted to the City's website and provided to the public at the meeting
Deborah Bueti of Citrus Heights Rescues Animals spoke in favor of the proposed Lease Agreement with Field Haven Feline Clinic.
Kim Scherer of Kimie's Kritters Pet Rescue spoke in support of the proposed Lease Agreement.
Melissa Hayden spoke in support of the proposed Lease Agreement.
Jodie Moeding of All About Pets spoke in opposition to the proposed Lease Agreement.
Laura Wilkie spoke in opposition to the proposed Lease Agreement.
Karen Bearman of Citrus Heights Rescues Animals spoke in support of the proposed Lease Agreement.
Robert Olivas of Sylvan Corners Pet Hospital spoke in opposition to the proposed Lease Agreement.
Michelle Johnson of Sylvan Corners Pet Hospital spoke in opposition to the proposed Lease Agreement.
Dr. Marci Linett of Mercy Pet Hospital spoke in opposition to the proposed Lease Agreement.
Scott Anderson of Sylvan Corners Pet Hospital spoke in opposition to the proposed Lease Agreement.
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Citrus Heights City Council Wednesday, August 27, 2025
Anna Romeo spoke in support of the proposed Lease Agreement.
Lori Whitney of Itsie Bitsie Rescue, Inc. spoke in support of the proposed Lease Agreement.
Jodi King spoke in support of the proposed Lease Agreement.
Monet Noe spoke in support of the proposed Lease Agreement.
Kathy Leonard, president of the Field Haven Feline Center board, spoke in support of the proposed Lease Agreement.
Ray Riehle spoke in opposition to the proposed Lease Agreement.
Sandra Deeker spoke in support of the proposed Lease Agreement.
Sonia Luna submitted written public comment on August 23 that was distributed to the Council.
Vicki Adams of Citrus Heights Pet Hospital spoke in support of the proposed Lease Agreement.
City Clerk Van read the following written public comment submitted by Kristin Nelson, "Unfixed cats is a HUGE problem within CH. I have had 9 cats/kittens TR'd and after being quoted between $500-600 from local vets, I opted to instead drive 40+ minutes each way to obtain more budget-friendly services.
Being as Animal Services does not assist with this need, at a minimum Fieldhaven should be allowed to help us citizens out. Vets aren't losing business to this. In fact, one vet I called referred me to SPCA and apologized for their $600 price tag. What will happen is either people will go out of their way to drive elsewhere OR cats will be left to continue to populate, unfixed. Please let Fieldhaven help us." City Clerk Van read the following written public comment submitted by Mary Hulsey, "Free for Feral cats, TNR greatly needed in CH. Way too many unhoused cats & kittens without anywhere to help residents get overpopulation under control. Ignoring it won't solve anything." City Clerk Van read the following written public comment submitted by Katie Mack, "We are in great need of more low cost spay and neuter clinics. I am with Fluff Buddies, a cat rescue organization. Our phones ring constantly with people needing help because they have found kittens, unspayed females etc. The rescue community is overwhelmed. The feral cat population has exploded. The humane trappers are exhausted, and the county and city shelters are not much help." City Clerk Van read the following written public comment submitted by Elyse Mize, "As a Citrus Heights resident and co-founder of Fix Our Shelters, I strongly support bringing a spay/neuter clinic to our community. Accessible and affordable spay/neuter services are one of the most effective tools we have to prevent animals from entering already overburdened shelters. Every litter prevented means fewer animals facing homelessness, fewer taxpayer dollars spent on housing them, and fewer animals at risk of euthanasia when shelters reach capacity.
Some in the veterinary field have raised concerns about competition, but that argument misses the point.
Veterinary medicine is rooted in the principle of "do no harm." There is no greater harm than allowing preventable suffering of animals born into lives of neglect, abandonment, or unnecessary death in crowded shelters. Spay/neuter clinics are not taking business away from full-service practices; rather,
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they are filling a gap by serving pet owners who might otherwise forgo these essential procedures due to cost or accessibility.
Veterinarians and advocates alike should be aligned on this: reducing intake into shelters helps the entire community, including local veterinary practices. Fewer stray and unwanted animals means healthier, safer neighborhoods, less strain on municipal resources, and better outcomes for pets who already have homes.
Citrus Heights has the opportunity to lead with compassion and common sense by supporting this clinic.
Doing so will not only save lives but will also demonstrate our city's commitment to responsible, humane solutions for animal welfare."
City Council comments followed.
ACTION: On a motion by Council Member Schaefer, seconded by Council Member Nelson, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 2025-069, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, Authorizing the City Manager to Execute a Lease Agreement with Field Haven Feline Center for the Operation and Management of 7555 Old Auburn Road, and allow the City Manager to make further minor modifications as deemed necessary.
AYES: Middleton, Nelson, Schaefer, Lopez-Taff, Karpinski-Costa NOES: None
ABSENT: None
b. SUBJECT: On-Call Architectural Engineering Services 2025 - Award of Contract STAFF REPORT: R. Cave / J. Lowe
RECOMMENDATION: Adopt Resolution No. 2025-070, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, Authorizing the City Manager to Execute a Professional Services Agreement with RMW Architecture & Interiors for On-Call Architectural Engineering Services 2025
General Services Director Cave reported on the item. The firm will immediately start evaluating both buildings on the property with a focus on the building Field Haven will occupy, in the immediate preparation of construction drawings. Simultaneously, staff will proceed with the review, analysis, and design for the building that Animal Services Division would occupy.
ACTION: On a motion by Vice Mayor Lopez-Taff, seconded by Council Member Nelson, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 2025-070, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, Authorizing the City Manager to Execute a Professional Services Agreement with RMW Architecture & Interiors for On-Call Architectural Engineering Services 2025.
AYES: Middleton, Nelson, Schaefer, Lopez-Taff, Karpinski-Costa NOES: None
ABSENT: None
12. SUBJECT: 2025 Road Resurfacing Project (15-GS-24-03) - Award of Construction Contract STAFF REPORT: R. Cave / L. Blomquist
RECOMMENDATION: Adopt Resolution No. 2025-071, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, California, Authorizing the City Manager to Execute an Agreement with
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Valley Slurry Seal International, Inc. for the 2025 Road Resurfacing Project and Finding the Project is Exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Under Section 15301 City Engineer Blomquist provided a presentation with updates on the 2025 Road Resurfacing Project.
City Council questions and comments followed.
ACTION: On a motion by Council Member Schaefer, seconded by Council Member Middleton, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 2025-071, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Citrus Heights, California, Authorizing the City Manager to Execute an Agreement with Valley Slurry Seal International, Inc. for the 2025 Road Resurfacing Project and Finding the Project is Exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Under Section 15301.
AYES: Middleton, Nelson, Schaefer, Lopez-Taff, Karpinski-Costa NOES: None
ABSENT: None
13. SUBJECT: Communications Utility Provider Presentation - Intrepid Fiber Networks Representatives from Intrepid Fiber Networks provided a presentation and overview of a proposed, privately funded project to build a fiber broadband network across Citrus Heights. Intrepid's Community Notification Plan was discussed. Intrepid is requesting partnership with the City to align on repaving efforts. A four week pilot area has been chosen to allow the City and Intrepid to start working together on design and permitting before network deployment. Next steps on the project were reviewed. City Council questions and comments followed.
No Action was taken by the City Council. The presentation was for informational purposes only.
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
14. SUBJECT: Economic Development Work Plan Update
DEPARTMENT: Economic Development & Community Engagement This item was continued to a future meeting.
CITY MANAGER ITEMS
City Manager Feeney reported on the demolition of the Sunrise Blvd. Marie Callender's. He thanked Administrative Services Director Talwar and her team for producing the Fiscal Year 2025-2027 Biennia Budget documents, which have been published on the website. He announced that City Hall will b closed on September 1 in observance of Labor Day.
ITEMS REQUESTED BY COUNCIL MEMBERS / FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS None
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Citrus Heights City Council Wednesday, August 27, 2025
ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Karpinski-Costa adjourned the regular meeting at 10:32 p.m. in honor of Jeanne Rounsavell, a treasured member of the Veterans Community Center and Citrus Heights Community.
Respectfully submitted,
ena var
Amy Van, City Clerk
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