CLOVIS CITY COUNCIL MEETING
September 5, 2023 6:00 P.M. Council Chamber
Meeting called to order by Mayor Ashbeck at 6:00
Flag Salute led by Councilmember Pearce
Roll Call: Present: Councilmembers Basgall, Bessinger, Mouanoutoua, Pearce Mayor Ashbeck
PRESENTATION - 6:02
6:03 - ITEM 1 - PRESENTATION OF CERTIFICATES RECOGNIZING STUDENTS FOR PARTICIPATING IN THE AMERICAN LEGION BOYS AND GIRLS STATE PROGRAM. 6:10 - ITEM 2 - PRESENTATION OF PROCLAMATION DECLARING SEPTEMBER 2023 AS NATIONAL SERVICE DOG MONTH.
PUBLIC COMMENTS - 6:15
None.
CONSENT CALENDAR - 6:16
Motion by Councilmember Basgall, seconded by Councilmember Mouanoutoua, that the items on the Consent Calendar, with the exception of item 7, be approved. Motion carried by unanimous vote.
3. Administration - Approved - Minutes from the August 21, 2023, Council Meeting.
4. Administration - Approved - Award the Request for Proposals and approve the purchase of Cisco Networking and Security equipment from ConvergeOne in the amount of $72,021.55.
Administration - Approved - FY 2023-24 Agreement between the City of Clovis and the Economic Development Corporation Serving Fresno County for services up to an amount of $50,000.
Administration - Approved - Waive Formal Bidding Requirements and Authorize the City Manager to Enter into an Agreement with Kosmont Companies for $50,000 to Conduct an Analysis of Development Impact Fee Program.
8. General Services - Approved - Claim Rejection of the General Liability Claim on behalf of Brooklyn Sykes, Giani Christensen, and Tiffany Shoemaker.
9. General Services - Approved - Res. 23-78, Authorizing the City Manager to Execute an Agreement for Older Americans Act Funding for Title III C-1 Nutrition Services Through the Fresno-Madera Area Agency on Aging (FMAAA); and Approved - Res. 23-79, Amending the FY 2023-2024 General Services Department Budget to Reflect $41,000.00 in Grant Funding for the Clovis Senior Activity Center Awarded by the Fresno-Madera Area Agency on Aging.
10. Planning and Development Services - Approved - Final Acceptance for CIP 17-21 Well 35 Drilling and Development.
11. Planning and Development Services - Approved - Res. 23-94, Amend the 2023-2024 Community Investment Program Budget for General Government Facilities, addition of Loma Vista Police Substation in the amount of $700,000.
12. Planning and Development Services - Approved - Bid Award for CIP 21-20 Sierra Avenue Street Improvements; and Authorize the City Manager to Execute the Contract on behalf of the City with Dave Christian Construction in the amount of $1, 190,049.00.
13. Planning and Development Services - Approved - Final Acceptance for Final Map for Tract 6164, located southwest area of Dakota Avenue and Leonard Avenue (DYP 6164, LP a California Limited Partnership (De Young Properties)).
14. Public Utilities - Approved - Award a Contract to Karbonous, Inc. for Maintenance Work Consisting of Purchasing and Replacing Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) at Well 21 and Well 28 in the Amount of $135,842.40.
15. Public Utilities - Approved - Waive Formal Bidding Requirements and Authorize the Purchase of a Police Department Aerial Bucket Truck from Altec Industries, Inc. Using the Sourcewell Purchasing Contract in the Amount of $ 186,064.
16. Public Utilities - Approved - Res. 23-80, Adopting an Integrated Pest Management Policy.
17. Public Utilities - Approved - Waive Formal Bidding Requirements and Authorize the City Manager to Enter into a Contract with Golden Bell Products, Inc. for Insect Control in Sanitary Sewer Manholes in the Amount of $188,421.25.
6:17 ITEM 7 - ADMINISTRATION - CONTINUED - RES. 23-XX, AMENDING THE 2023-2024
PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT SERVICES BUDGET, AND AUTHORIZE THE CITY
MANAGER TO ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT WITH THE CLOVIS RODEO ASSOCIATION FOR CITY USE OF RODEO GROUNDS FACILITIES.
Item was continued to the September 11, 2023, City Council meeting.
ADMINISTRATIVE ITEMS - 6:18
6:18 ITEM 18 - CONSIDER VARIOUS AMENDMENTS TO THE CITY OF CLOVIS MUNICIPAL CODE RELATED TO CODE ENFORCEMENT:
18A. ADOPTED - ORD. 23-06, AMENDING SECTION 5.22.07 OF THE CITY OF CLOVIS
MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO THE MARIJUANA PENALTIES AND
COUNCILMEMBER BESSINGER ABSENT)
Motion for approval by Councilmember Mouanoutoua, seconded by Councilmember Bessinger. Motion carried by unanimous vote.
18B. ADOPTED - ORD. 23-07, AMENDING SECTION 6.3.13, OF CHAPTER 6.3, OF TITLE 6, OF THE CITY OF CLOVIS MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO THE UNLAWFUL DUMPING OF GARBAGE. (VOTE: 3-0-2 WITH COUNCILMEMBER BASGALL AND
COUNCILMEMBER BESSINGER ABSENT)
Motion for approval by Councilmember Mouanoutoua, seconded by Councilmember Basgall. Motion carried by unanimous vote.
18C. ADOPTED - ORD. 23-08, ADDING SECTION 5.27.512 TO TITLE 5 OF THE CITY
OF CLOVIS MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO THE STORING, MAINTAINING, OR PLACING OF PERSONAL PROPERTY IN THE PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY. (VOTE: 3-0-2
WITH COUNCILMEMBER BASGALL AND COUNCILMEMBER BESSINGER ABSENT) seconded by Councilmember
18D. ADOPTED - ORD. 23-09, AMENDING SECTION 5.10.06 OF THE CITY OF CLOVIS
MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO THE APPLICATION FOR A MASSAGE ESTABLISHMENT PERMIT OR OUT- CALL MASSAGE BUSINESS PERMIT. (VOTE: 3- 0-2 WITH COUNCILMEMBER BASGALL AND COUNCILMEMBER BESSINGER
ABSENT)
Motion for approval by Councilmember Mouanoutoua, seconded by Councilmember Basgall. Motion carried by unanimous vote.
APPLICATIONS FOR WATER SERVICE. (VOTE: 3-0-2 WITH COUNCILMEMBER
BASGALL AND COUNCILMEMBER BESSINGER ABSENT)
Motion for approval by Councilmember Mouanoutoua, seconded by Councilmember Basgall. Motion carried by unanimous vote.
COUNCIL ITEMS - 6:24
6:24 ITEM 20 - LETTER TO FRESNO COUNTY REGARDING LIBRARY CONCERNS FROM THE COMMUNITY.
Eric Rollins, resident, spoke in support of the City Council sending the letter to the Fresno County Board of Supervisors.
Tracey Bohren, resident, spoke in opposition of the City Council sending the letter to the Fresno County Board of Supervisors.
Anne Carneto, resident, shared concerns regarding LBGTQ+ books in the public library.
Alexandria, resident, shared concerns regarding banning books in the public library and inclusivity of the LGBTQ+ community.
Monica Blanco, resident, spoke in opposition of the City Council sending the letter to the Fresno County Board of Supervisors.
Annie Nguyen, resident, shared concerns regarding prejudices against the LBGTQ+ community.
Christina Espinosa, resident, spoke in support of LBGTQ+ books in the library and shared concerns regarding discrimination against the LBGTQ+ community.
Elisia, spoke in support of the LBGTQ+ books in the library.
Malcolm Gibson, resident, spoke in opposition of the City Council sending the letter to the Fresno County Board of Supervisors.
Eli, resident, spoke in support of the LBGTO+ books in the library.
Katy, spoke in support of the LBGTQ+ books in the library.
Marlene Pollack, resident, shared concerns regarding banning books in the public library.
Jennifer Crowe, librarian, spoke in support of the LBGTQ+ books in the library.
Dana, resident, spoke in support of the LBGTQ+ books in the library.
Vanessa Johnson, resident, spoke in opposition of the City Council sending the letter to the Fresno County Board of Supervisors.
Isaac, resident, spoke in opposition of the City Council sending the letter to the Fresno County Board of Supervisors.
Josh Fulfer, resident, spoke in opposition of sexually graphic books in the children's section of the library.
Steven, resident, spoke in opposition of the City Council sending the letter to the Fresno County Board of Supervisors.
Ellen, spoke in support of the LBGTQ+ books in the library.
Drew Harbo, resident, spoke in support of the LBGTQ+ books in the library and opposed the City Council sending the letter to the Fresno County Board of Supervisors.
Chris Jarvis, spoke in support of the LBGTQ+ books in the library and opposed the City Council sending the letter to the Fresno County Board of Supervisors.
David Whart, spoke in support of the LBGTQ+ books in the library and opposed the City Council sending the letter to the Fresno County Board of Supervisors.
Sarah Bane, resident, spoke in opposition of the City Council sending the letter to the Fresno County Board of Supervisors.
Maddy, spoke in support of the LBGTQ+ books in the library and opposed the City Council sending the letter to the Fresno County Board of Supervisors.
Ben Parker, resident, spoke in support of the LBGTQ+ books in the library.
Blanca Porras, resident, spoke in opposition of sexually graphic books in the children's section of the library.
Resident, spoke in opposition of LBGTQ+ books in the library.
Jessica Bergen, spoke in support of the LBGTQ+ books in the library.
Dean, spoke in support of the LBGTQ+ books in the library.
Josh De La Cruz, spoke in opposition of the City Council sending the letter to the Fresno County Board of Supervisors.
Victoria, spoke in support of the LBGTQ+ books in the library.
Dennis McCourt, resident, spoke in support of the City Council sending the letter to the Fresno County Board of Supervisors.
De Angelic, resident, spoke in support of the LBGTQ+ books in the library.
Des Martinez, resident, shared concerns regarding discrimination.
Tammy, spoke in opposition of LBGTQ+ books in the library and in support of the City Council sending the letter to the Fresno County Board of Supervisors.
Sean Berdine, shared information on how to flag books in the Clovis library.
Sylvia Guerrera, spoke in support of the LBGTQ+ books in the library.
Milo, spoke in support of the LBGTQ+ books in the library.
Peggy Dunkley, resident, spoke in support of the LBGTQ+ books in the library and in opposition of the City Council sending the letter to the Fresno County Board of Supervisors.
Whitney, resident, spoke in support of the LBGTQ+ books in the library and in opposition of the City Council sending the letter to the Fresno County Board of Supervisors.
Mav, spoke in support of the LBGTQ+ books in the library.
David Rall, resident, spoke in opposition of the City Council sending the letter to the Fresno County Board of Supervisors.
Bill Brooks, shared concerns regarding providing more guidance to the youth.
Jennifer Cruz, resident, spoke in support of the LBGTQ+ books in the library and in opposition of the City Council sending the letter to the Fresno County Board of Supervisors.
Mary Anne Cress, resident, spoke in opposition of the City Council sending the letter to the Fresno County Board of Supervisors.
Brittany, spoke in support of the LBGTQ+ books in the library and in opposition of the City Council sending the letter to the Fresno County Board of Supervisors.
Sue, spoke in opposition of the City Council sending the letter to the Fresno County Board of Supervisors.
Eva, resident, spoke in support of the LBGTQ+ books in the library.
Kaleah, spoke in support of the LBGTQ+ books in the library and in opposition of the City Council sending the letter to the Fresno County Board of Supervisors.
Rose, spoke in opposition of the City Council sending the letter to the Fresno County Board of Supervisors.
Grace, spoke in support of the LBGTQ+ books in the library and in opposition of the City Council sending the letter to the Fresno County Board of Supervisors.
Motion to not send the letter by Councilmember Bessinger, seconded by Councilmember Basgall. Motion carried by unanimous vote.
Mayor Ashbeck adjourned the meeting to a break at 9:16
Mayor Ashbeck called the meeting to order at 9:24
ADMINISTRATIVE ITEMS - 9:25
9:25 ITEM 19 - CONTINUED - ANNUAL UPDATE ON CALIFORNIA OPEN GOVERNANCE LAWS - BROWN ACT, PUBLIC RECORDS ACT, ETHICS.
Item continued to the September 11, 2023, City Council meeting.
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS - 9:26
COUNCIL COMMENTS - 9:27
CLOSED SESSION - 9:38
ITEM 21 - GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54956.9(D)(1) CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION CASE NAME: DESIREE MARTINEZ V. CITY OF CLOVIS, ET AL., CASE NO. F082914
ITEM 22 - GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54956.9(D)(2) CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL
COUNSEL - ANTICIPATED LITIGATION SIGNIFICANT EXPOSURE TO LITIGATION ONE
POTENTIAL CASE
OF CLOVIS
No action was taken by the City Council during the closed session. 2 Mayor Ashbeck adjourned the meeting of the Council to September 11, 2023.
Meeting adjourned: 11:10 p.m.
CRATED FEBRUS
Lynae Achael 188000
Mayor
•
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, September 2, 2023 7:05 PM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-04
Item Number (put "O" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 0 Full Name: Reanin Kielmeyer
Email: [email protected]
Comment: Good evening council members,
I am writing to you regarding the election process. I am extremely concerned about the validity, safety and security of ur elections process. Every election is important but the upcoming general and primary election is going to be criticall to he future of our country. I don't have any reason to believe that Clovis has faltered in its security of elections, but I want to make sure we have a plan in place in case there is an unforeseen circumstance that hinders citizens to vote - a couple years ago, they used the pandemic, who knows what they will do next time. I believe Election Day should be a national holiday, I have never understood why it isn't since the time and bureaucracy required to establish absentee ballots must be cumbersome. Aside from establishing a holiday, I think the ballot boxes are unsafe and promote vulnerability and fraud for those with nefarious intentions. Why not use licensed postal workers, police officers, firefighters, nurses and other properly vetted citizens to collect and drop off ballots for people who are unable to make it to polling places or otherwise unable to mail their ballot. I am gravely concerned about this election but I trust Clovis to ensure success.
Thank you for your time.
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
-.-
Date: September 2, 2023
Time: 7:04 pm
Remote IP: 104.180.6.196
PUBLIC COMMENTS
September 5, 2023
1 • •
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 8:14 PM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "0" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): O Full Name: nicholas stout
Email: [email protected]
Comment: 1. Can you speak on what measures are in place to combat homelessness within the fresno/clovis area either through the use of programs, services, or enforcement protocols?
2. What changes have been made to prevent future fire outbreaks within clovis community so that residents feel safe and secure with their real estate investments?
3. How has the growth of clovis contributed to the standard of living for residents and where do you see this growth potential into the next decade? (new home developments, expanding infrastructure, police/fire fighter response times)
4. Where does Clovis currently place within California standards of high school, elementary, and college level academics?
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
Date: September 4, 2023
Time: 8:13 pm
Remote IP: 73.151.48.22
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments < [email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, September 2, 2023 9:26 PM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "O" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Lee Sran Pulido
Email: [email protected]
Comment: The pride display at the Clovis library is a show of acceptance and let's the public know that it is a safe space for LGBT+ people. Allowing hatred to win is allowing things to go into a darker route. Please keep the display as it's always colors and acceptance.
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
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Date: September 2, 2023
Time: 9:26 pm
Remote IP: 67.182.105.205
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, September 2, 2023 9:44 PM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [Externall Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "0" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Blanche Hartman
Email: [email protected]
Comment: California is supposed to be a safe haven for all people from all walks of life, and that includes Clovis California. Times are changing and Clovis is becoming much more diversified each year. Everyone deserves a place to feel safe including the LGBTQ+ community which is not only a minority, but one who's youth has lacked having enough spaces of acceptance. With this said, there are so many other Libraries that people can go to if they feel uncomfortable with a place that is merely showing support to a protected minority group which has to become protected for a reason due to severe bullying, and in the worst cases, homicide. Public places including schools are called public for a reason, meaning everyone should be welcome and represented in some way. Taking that away would give the opposite message and cause people from all walks of life to continue to feel unwelcome in Clovis California. It would give the idea that only certain types of people are wanted in the community. As an African American member of the LGBTQ+ community, I have lived in Fresno for the majority of my life and didn't live in Clovis until five years ago. I don't know if Clovis' Government Officials are aware of what people say about their city, but my whole life I was told that Clovis is racist, sexist, and homophobic which is why I was very nervous to move here. I have a clean record, and somehow during my first month here, someone called the cops on me just because I had a bike pump in my pocket. Gladly the cop was very nice and knew that whoever called was just being mean and that I wasn't committing a crime just by walking down the street.
The longer I've lived here, the more comfortable I became as I saw more people from different walks of life moving to my area, but due to the rumors of a heavier population of white supremacists in the city, I dare not ever travel further East and I prefer to go to Fresno for pretty much everything except groceries for this reason. If you take this away from the library, all that would do is add to the rumors that Clovis is only accepting of straight white conservatives. I know that you have people who have lived here for years to please, but please consider the cost of not only LGBTQ+ youth that have also been raised here, or are having to be raised in the system, but new people who would actually do some real good in the community that are only looking to be able to be themselves and help in whatever way they can. And please remember that it was already decreed in the Bible long ago that there is to be a separation between Church and State. Thank you.
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
-_-
Date: September 2, 2023
Time: 9:43 pm
Remote IP: 76.149.95.227
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments < [email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, September 2, 2023 10:15 PM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "O" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Mavern Hardy
Email: [email protected]
Comment: This letter of quote unquote "concern" is a thinly veiled attempt to erase LGBT+ representation at the Clovis Public Library. Councilmember Pearce has a long history of exclusionary anti-LGBT+ comments which are highly inappropriate for someone in a role of leadership. It is a shame that she has used her position in public office as a platform for this kind of hateful anti-LGBT quote unquote groomer and indoctrination rhetoric. Originally these hateful talking points were spread by conservative pseudo-intellectual Christopher Rufo from the Manhattan Institute. The Manhattan Project and similar conservative organizations actively strategize to strip LGBT+ people of their human rights.
There are so many issues like homelessness and poverty that remain unaddressed in Clovis that need attention instead of this ridiculous quote on quote "concern."
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
Date: September 2, 2023
Time: 10:14 pm
Remote IP: 24.7.135.204
•
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments < [email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 5:09 PM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "0" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Dr. Rachel Goerzen
Email: [email protected]
Comment: I am writing in support of the Fresno County Library and its book choices. I am against the counsel sending a letter to the Fresno Board of Supervisors in regards to the books on display in June at the Clovis Library. These books have been present in the library for many years. This letter is clearly about fueling an anti-LGBTQ+ agenda and it's not ok. As a community member, mother and a physician, I support LGBTQ+ and reproductive /sexual health education books in our Clovis Library. These books serve as a much needed resource for older kids/teens as well as for adults trying to help their children navigate the sticky world of their growing/changing bodies, sexuality and gender.
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
Date: September 4, 2023
Time: 5:08 pm
Remote IP: 98.36.220.238
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments < [email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 5:25 PM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "0" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Curtis Johnson
Email: [email protected]
Comment: 1 am a life long resident of Clovis. I fully support the library and its position to display books that might be uncomfortable for some individuals. Being uncomfortable with a topic is ok. Learning to live with that feeling is a virtue of a stable adult. If certain individuals cannot tolerate such uncomfortable feelings, they should seek therapy and should retrain from putting themselves near that uncomfortable situation. That is their responsibility to handle their reaction to the situation. It is not our responsibility to bulldoze the uncomfortable topics out of their lives so they don't feel uncomfortable. The council should be focused on problems that actually matter, such as the alcoholic that lives just North of Westcal park that is constantly drinking in the park with his dog off leash. That's a bigger and actual problem for the council to tackle. Not trying to appease snowflakes. Snowflakes should seek therapy.
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
--
Date: September 4, 2023
Time: 5:25 pm
Remote IP: 218.189.72.130
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 8:01 PM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "O" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Richard Shelley
Email: [email protected]
Comment: I disagree with the council acting outside of its purview by sending a letter to the board of supervisors regarding the library.
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
_--_
Date: September 4, 2023
Time: 8:01 pm
Remote IP: 108.199.84.112
1 Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments < [email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 8:36 PM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "0" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Michelle Leanne Goyette
Email: [email protected]
Comment: I do not support item #20 on the 9/5 agenda.
Respectfully,
Michelle Goyette
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
Date: September 4, 2023
Time: 8:35 pm
Remote IP: 107.77.212.27
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 8:59 PM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "O" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Laura Hanrahan
Email: [email protected]
Comment: I do not support item 20 on the 9/5 agenda.
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
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Date: September 4, 2023
Time: 8:58 pm
Remote IP: 107.77.212.81
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 9:56 PM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "O" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 0 Full Name: Naomi Bick
Email: [email protected]
Comment: As an educator at Fresno State University and Fresno county citizen, l am concerned about the potential request for banning books from public libraries. Librarians, trained curators of books, should be responsible for what is available in libraries and age-appropriate information should not be limited to children and their families for any reason.
Let librarians be the judge for what is presented and keep professional norms in place. I would be happy to recommend university librarians if you have further questions, rather than relying on hyperbole from hateful individuals.
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
---_
Date: September 4, 2023
Time: 9:56 pm
Remote IP: 73.220.232.141
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments < [email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 9:56 PM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "O" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Tahamasa Foust
Email: [email protected]
Comment: I do not support approving item 20 on the agenda.
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
Date: September 4, 2023
Time: 9:56 pm
Remote IP: 98.51.15.1
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments < [email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 10:02 PM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "O" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 0 Full Name: Carla Trejo
Email: [email protected]
Comment: Listening to your constituents is important but do not let anti-Igbtq rhetoric lead to the banning of educational books. These books are necessary for the public and do not produce harm. Please refrain from removing these books and instead support policies and actions that support our most vulnerable like members of the Igbtq.
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
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Date: September 4, 2023
Time: 10:02 pm
Remote IP: 98.41.40.179
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 4, 2023 10:59 PM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "O" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Eva M. Green
Email: [email protected]
Comment: I fully support the Fresno County Public Library-Clovis branch and it's staff and their book selections. I believe that the City of Clovis should have no jurisdiction over the Fresno County Public Library. I also support the LGBTQ community, especially as my child is a part of the community here in Clovis. As I learned in attaining my Library Technology Certification at Fresno City College, it is the right of every library patron to choose the materials they consume for themselves, as laid out in the Reader's Bill of Rights from the American Library Association. Do not try to make choices for MY child, just as I do not make choices for yours. I want my child to have access to a full selection of materials to learn from, free of censorship. Everyone deserves an all inclusive selection of materials. Claiming to protect children while taking resources away from them is hypocritical. Thank you Mayor Ashbeck and Councilmember Basgall for staying on the right side of history and not signing this letter. Do not let Clovis be on the wrong side of history, don't let it look more and more like 1930s Germany. Thank you for your time.
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
__-
Date: September 4, 2023
Time: 10:58 pm
Remote IP: 73.185.119.141
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 1:28 AM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "O" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Lisa Flores
Email: [email protected]
Comment: Please do not pass or even consider the bigoted Agenda Item 20. I stand in support of the LGBTQ community in this regards.
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
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Date: September 5, 2023
Time: 1:27 am
Remote IP: 108.80.244.47
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments < [email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 5:49 AM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "O" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Drew Harbaugh
Email: [email protected]
Comment: I am writing to say that your inflammatory rhetoric and weaponization of the resources at the public library to harass our LGBTQ+ community is dishonest and manipulative at best, an outright abuse of your position and intentionally damaging to your constituents at worst. You should be ashamed of yourself, Councilmemembers Pearce and Bessinger. Your actions are creating a hostile environment for people to try and live in, in Clovis, which, unfortunately I'm not surprised about.
Councilmember Mouanoutoua, you still have an opportunity to do the right thing: vote against sending this ridiculous letter. Take into account all the voices you're hearing from who do NOT want you to waste Clovis resources on this- because if you feel the need to report to the FCBOS about a handful of people who didn't like the Pride displays, you must ALSO report to them the landslide of voices in support of free speech and library autonomy whom you'll be hearing from both online and at today's meeting. Vote against this foolishness and gross misuse of Clovis City time and funds.
Thank you.
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
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Date: September 5, 2023
Time: 5:49 am
Remote IP: 73.66.141.121
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 7:50 AM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "0" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: linda Smith
Email: [email protected]
Comment: Banning books in our public libraries are an anathema to our democracy. It violates our personal freedom to read. If one does not want to read a book that violates one's values, then don't read it. Its as simple as that.
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
Date: September 5, 2023
Time: 7:49 am
Remote IP: 76.224.231.247
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments < [email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 8:30 AM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler, Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "O" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Dan Waterhouse
Email: [email protected]
Comment: I oppose this letter. It's political grandstanding.
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
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Date: September 5, 2023
Time: 8:30 am
Remote IP: 76.236.44.128
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 8:36 AM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "O" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Kayla Lee
Email: [email protected]
Comment: I am writing today to encourage Clovis City Council to vote against the letter concerning Pride displays and LGBTQ+ books in our public libraries. To deny the existence and representation of a part of your community does a disservice to them, as well as the community as a whole. As someone who grew up in Clovis and continues to live, and vote, in Fresno County, I have seen first hand how the lack of support of the Queer community directly harms our youth and families as a whole. I encourage you to stop spreading dangerous lies about your LGBTQ+ Community members. I encourage you to consider how actions such as this are a big step back for our county.
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
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Date: September 5, 2023
Time: 8:36 am
Remote IP: 174.208.105.0
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 8:50 AM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "O" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Nicole Martinez
Email: [email protected]
Comment: I am writing in to say that this use of valuable time and resources to spread hate and bully the LGBTQIA+ community is downright shameful and a waist. How dare you try to enforce your bigotry on a whole community of people. A community that is so diverse and includes not just people but families that are Queer and/or proudly support the LGBTQIA+ community. A public library is a beautiful place of Knowledge, and adventure, not a place to censor books you don't like because it portrays people of the Queer community. Portrayals no different than those of straight cis people that you can find all throughout the library. The only difference is your ignorance and hate. Don't ban books.
Stop waisting our time and recourses and maybe pick up one of these books and learn a few things. Ignorance is very unbecoming, especially of a council member. Do better. Be better.
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
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Date: September 5, 2023
Time: 8:50 am
Remote IP: 96.103.192.88
1 Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 9:17 AM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-07
Item Number (put "O" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Julie Shimizu
Email: [email protected]
Comment: I strongly oppose Diane Pearce's proposal to send a letter to the Fresno county library regarding LGBTQ themed books.
I am a lifelong resident of Clovis California. I attended Clovis schools from kindergarten through 12th grade. I have three grandchildren now in Clovis schools and another who graduated from Clovis High. I am a retired teacher: I spent half of my career teaching high school English and the other half of my career teaching first grade. I feel that 1 am qualified to comment on this topic.
The books Ms. Pearce objects to are chosen by professional librarians, with masters degrees, after careful consideration and scrutiny. I think it is ridiculous to try to ban or censor these books that are based on real life situations that children may encounter.
Ms. Pearce states "But when we're targeting children with that type of information, I think it's only appropriate that parents have the opportunity to choose not to have their children exposed to that" If you don't want your children to read the materials, don't let them. That's your choice.
But don't try to tell other people what their children can and cannot read.
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
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Date: September 5, 2023
Time: 9:16 am
Remote IP: 172.56.169.87
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments < [email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 9:36 AM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "O" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Rochelle Delgado
Email: [email protected]
Comment: I am a resident of Clovis and parent to 2 children that have grown up in Clovis. My concern is item 20. Fresno County has had LGBTQ+ displays in our libraries for a number of years. Counsel Woman Pearce just recently noticed this past June Pride month display and apparently was offended by it. It's been happening for years, no issue, no problems, no 'trauma' to anyone. I am a mom to a Trans child. The display makes them feel seen and proud. Nobody is forcing anyone to go to the display if they don't want to look over the books on display. Nobody is being forced to check out or read the books on display. It is only a display to represent the LGBTQ + community, as with any other display the libraries may have. There are so many books available and not everyone will be interested or even support many of the books available, but those same books may be of great value to others. To say that this particular display is harmful in any way highlights the prejudices and homophobic issues of some. However this must not erase or ignore many of the constiuates that are or support the LGBTQ+ community. Pretending this Clovis community does not consist of LGBTQ+ constiuates as well as ally's does not make them go away. Maybe Council Women Pearce needs to remember she represents ALL constiuates within Clovis and respect us as equal members of this community. Hiding it won't make it go away and it just might save someone who is struggling with feeling accepted and cared for.
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
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Date: September 5, 2023
Time: 9:36 am
Remote IP: 172.59.49.162
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments < [email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 9:37 AM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "O" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Dani Veloz
Email: [email protected]
Comment: I do not stand with item 20
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
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Date: September 5, 2023
Time: 9:36 am
Remote IP: 174.236.232.101
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments < [email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 9:38 AM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "O" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Cynthia Campbell
Email: [email protected]
Comment: I do not support passing item 20
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
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Date: September 5, 2023
Time: 9:37 am
Remote IP: 99.3.105.89
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments < [email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 9:52 AM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "O" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Cecilia Rangel-Garcia
Email: [email protected]
Comment: To the Clovis City Council, leaders of this community - Your support of a letter to Fresno County voicing concern about books in the library lies directly contrary to the First Amendment Right in this country. While I agree that parents can have the right to control what their children read, entire books should not be fully banned, eliminating the right for other parents to be exposed to important, educational, critical information for their own children. The parents and community members who are concerned about the material should simply not check these books out. Let it be up to individuals. I urge you to stand up for individual rights, uphold this within our community.
I grew up here in Clovis, CA. I grew up in the libraries and have deeply fond memories of exploring the library, checking out books with my friends and parents and learning in the pictures and words I read. Because of this right to explore, I obtained a foundational love of learning and have applied that all the way through my education. I am now a physician in this community, training to be a psychiatrist. As a psychiatrist, I know that exclusion of educational material and denial of exploration is detrimental. It is powerful and it is harmful.
I return to your role, as a leader in this community, to advocate for our community rights. To reaffirm our right to borrow, read, talk, explore ideas through all types of books and literature. Ultimately, that is how you came to be you, came to be our leader. Please do not support a denial of rights through this letter. Be the good. Stand for good.
Sincerely,
A lifelong Clovis resident
A mother
A physician
Cecilia Rangel-Garcia
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
Date: September 5, 2023
Time: 9:52 am
Remote IP: 152.131.10.131
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments < [email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 10:17 AM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "O" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Nadine Pourier Blumenshine
Email: [email protected]
Comment: I am opposed to Clovis City Council writing a letter to Fresno County Board of Supervisors regarding what the County Library puts on it's shelves. It is not your duty as my Council member to police the County. Please pay attention in your job as City Council member to what needs to be done in Clovis. If I want to address something within the County's jurisdiction, I'll go to them myself, not have you write them a letter.
Additionally, this whole bigoted, harmful issue makes Clovis look so foolish. Please don't add to that by signing and sending the letter.
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
Date: September 5, 2023
Time: 10:16 am
Remote IP: 68.191.161.11
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments < [email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 10:47 AM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "O" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Ashley Marie Mireles-Guerrero
Email: [email protected]
Comment: Dear City Council,
It has come to my attention that several books in the FCBOS are being challenged as "inappropriate" and "offensive" I am writing to strongly urge you against actions that would lead to a book ban or censorship. As a publishing professional who has worked in children's publishing by for over seven years, my experience has been that books which cover sensitive or uncomfortable topics are often those that are most needed by parents, teachers, and most importantly the children reading them. Libraries and books have the ability to provide not only knowledge but comfort and understanding during complicated and confusing times in children's lives. Removing books like those challenged here, created an environment where knowledge is feared rather than embraced. We should empower children to inquire and learn. It is my belief that any type of ban is a slippery slope towards a community where differing opinions and beliefs are othered and feared promoting a society where violence and hatred can thrive. Please vote against this action.
Sincerely,
Ashley Marie Mireles-Guerrero
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
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Date: September 5, 2023
Time: 10:46 am
Remote IP: 172.58.182.251
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments < [email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 10:50 AM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "O" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Carlos Lopez
Email: [email protected]
Comment: As an LGBTQ resident I am extremely disappointed and disgusted by the cowardly actions of councilwoman Pearce. The efforts by people like her to censor our histories and voices are not new by any means, and it is disheartening to see it happen over and over again especially in my own community. There were very few LGBT books in my own library when I was growing up in Hanford, yet that didn't stop me from realizing who I was. However. having easily accessible literature would have made me realize that I wasn't alone and it was possible for me to have a happy and fulfilling life as an adult. Additionally, censorship of literature is extremely un-American. We all have the right to read whatever we want, and libraries should be nonpartisan repositories of knowledge that we should all have access to, for free. That's what makes this country worth living in.
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
Date: September 5, 2023
Time: 10:50 am
Remote IP: 174.210.224.227
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments < [email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 10:52 AM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "O" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Cordell B. Jelf, Jr
Email: [email protected]
Comment: Professional librarians already review their orders of books and use professional standards for a complete collection. Special collections or displays come from a lot of planning and discussion, and each branch librarian in the Fresno County Free (no subscription fees) Library also confirms plans for individual libraries. Public comments have long been accepted and considered. Pressure from specific political parties or churches has also long been resisted.
Regarding the Council Member's false remarks, she'll find the criminal statistics in the cities of Clovis and Fresno and Fresno County show the majority of sexual assaults of adults and children are committed by straight males, married and unmarried. This sad crime is also done by other categories, but the women's movement of the 20th century, especially in the 1970s tied the facts together and demonstrated that sexual assault is a dysfunction of power, not sex. I'm surprised the Clovis Council is unaware of the women's movement's achievements, being able to sign contracts, vote, wear clothing of their choice, walk outside without escort, even hold political office.
These are things everyone enjoys, even the LGBTQ community. The City Council should not make policy based on the preachings of one church or even several. If you go to the library, you can find lots of books on Europeans, North Americans, Asians, and all the rest of the world. There's science and history books, and philosophy, biography, and psychology, and so on. They even have books that are fiction, for entertainment and reflection. They also have books that tell how to weigh the truth versus lies.
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
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Date: September 5, 2023
Time: 10:52 am
Remote IP: 99.120.200.59
••
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 12:17 PM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "O" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Mia Costello
Email: [email protected]
Comment: I am writing in opposition of Diana Pierce's proposal to send a letter to the Fresno county library regarding removal of LGBTQ themed books.
l've lived in Clovis for most of my life, and grew up visiting the Fresno County library. I graduated from Clovis High and am now continuing my education at UC Berkeley.
I understand that those who support this proposal see their actions as protecting the children within their community.
For example, on Diana Pearce's social media, she uses words such as "graphic", and "targeting", in an attempt to frame the LGBTQ+ community as dangerous and harmful to children. In reality the books she is claiming will harm children have titles such as "It feels good to be yourself".
It is imperative to realize that there is no overarching scheme to influence children with LGBTQ+ books in a harmful way and LGBTQ+ youth deserve to see themselves represented in literature.
After all, this sudden discussion about LGBTQ+ books in public libraries isn't really about protecting kids, but it's about control and imposing one's views on others. If these council members truly believed in protecting children, they'd attack truly substantial issues that face children, rather than become focused on a small display of books set out for pride month. Instead they are weaponizing the idea that the LGBTQ+ community is harmful, for their own gain.
Censorship breeds ignorance as we have seen time and time again historically. It also creates a sense of misplaced fear and anxiety against minority groups. Censorship, as we've seen in multiple great works of literature and historical events, only harms society. Children should be free to learn about those who may be different from them, and LGBTQ+ children should be afforded the privilege of knowing that they aren't alone.
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
Date: September 5, 2023
Time: 12:16 pm
Remote IP: 107.115.29.118
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 12:27 PM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "O" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Tate Musch
Email: [email protected]
Comment: I am writing to ensure you recognize that the members of Clovis that wish to see the proposed books banned are a small minority of the community and not the vast majority. These are books that have been in the library years and now all of a sudden they need to be removed? Freedom of speech belongs to EVERYONE and this is censorship in its most blatant form. This is a waste of time and city resources and should be voted down.
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
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Date: September 5, 2023
Time: 12:26 pm
Remote IP: 76.158.9.173
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 12:40 PM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "0" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Margaret Marks
Email: [email protected]
Comment: I am writing to express my concern about Councilwoman Pearce's comments about the display of LGBTQIA+ books at my local Clovis library. Ms. Pearce is asserting that the display of LGBTQIA+ books were not age appropriate.
However, I see a few problems with her argument. First, the library is a Fresno County library that happens to be in Clovis. The city of Clovis may have input, but ultimately it is the county that controls the library. Secondly, the inference that Ms. Pearce made is that the library staff are not adequately trained/educated in what is age appropriate. I find this hard to believe. I also find it hard to believe that Ms. Pearce thinks that she and other lawmakers are better equipped than parents to decide what is appropriate for their children or me. What is apparent is that Ms. Pearce doesn't believe that highlighting the contributions of the LGBTQIA+ community is important or desirable. Instead, she and others such as Fresno City Councilman Garry Bredefield, would have the people in the LGBTQIA+ community (of which I am a part) erased or forgotten. The complaint of children being "sexualized" by these types of books are only happening in the mind of the critics, not anyone else. Using such crude, patently false, and disgusting rhetoric only shows how homophobic and fearful critics really are. There is no reason why a letter needs to be sent to Fresno County because the only issue is that Ms Pearce had an issue with the book display. If anyone thinks this is an issue, I ask that you replace LGBTQIA+ with any other marginalized community and it would be obvious that Ms. Pearce comments are at their heart prejudiced, biased, and are insulting whether intended to be or not. I would hope that my first impression of Clovis is the correct one: a community that open, accepting, and supportive of all people of every race, gender, sexual orientation, and age. If anything, we should more LGBTQIA+ displays. Representation matters and everyone knows that. When we see people who look like us, have the same issues as us, and do the same things as we do, we feel validated, heard, and seen. Our LGBTQIA+ youth are already experiencing so much negativity with politicians who want to erase, ignore, and legislate based on who they are, bullies at their schools and social groups, and being excluded from extracurricular activities. They have a higher rate of suicide, self-harm, homelessness, and mental health issues than their peers. We can't let the LGBTQIA+ members of our community feel in any way that they are less than or second class citizens.
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
Date: September 5, 2023
Time: 12:39 pm
Remote IP: 99.20.220.57
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments < [email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 12:52 PM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "0" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 0 Full Name: Mulvena
Email: [email protected]
Comment: Censorship by removal of books relating to LGBTQ topics is discriminatory and harmful. Public libraries should be a source of unbiased information. LGBTQ individuals have a right to access materials that speak to them directly. The only harm books cause in relationship to children is to the adults trying to control and suppress them. Children who have access to reading diverse materials grow up able to think for themselves and don't tolerate the bigotry that generations before them had to.
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
Date: September 5, 2023
Time: 12:52 pm
Remote IP: 166.198.34.5
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments < [email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 1:03 PM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "0" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Claudia Rojas
Email: [email protected]
Comment: Books in question have helped myself and my kids navigate through several aspects in our lives. If you do not approve of these books you simply would not check them out. However, if you do want to learn about a certain topic it is my right to be able to have access to the information I need.
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
Date: September 5, 2023
Time: 1:03 pm
Remote IP: 206.78.213.64
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 1:09 PM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "O" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Paul Addison
Email: [email protected]
Comment: Ever since I was a kid, I loved to read. I still do. Seeing that people are considering removing books that are helpful for those with questions regarding their identity, amongst other things, from the library where I spent so much of my childhood in, makes me sad. Please, for a moment, consider those who need that knowledge that others are trying to remove. Think about how they would feel when they can't find the answers they're looking for. Imagine, for a moment, that you are looking for a book on, say, electrical wiring so you can fix an outlet. You keep looking, and keep looking, but just cannot find it. you go to the librarian, and they say to you, "Oh, we removed those a long time ago." Think about how upset you would be that you couldn't find the information you needed. Please, don't remove these books.
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
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Date: September 5, 2023
Time: 1:09 pm
Remote IP: 209.129.241.44
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 1:10 PM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "O" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Ryan Tucker
Email: [email protected]
Comment: As a historian, educator, and constituent, I strongly urge the Council to resist the temptation to join the litany of authoritarians who have implemented book bans throughout recorded history. Those urging you to do this are the same ones demanding teachers like me to make sure we teach our students about the evil authoritarian dictators who have carried out these same actions. Hopefully, you can recognize the irony in their position and see through their baseless, ignorant, anti-intellectual, anti-democratic, reactionary, authoritarian position and let your better angels win the day. If you insist upon taking this action and calling on the County Board of Supervisors to do your dirty work for you, then consider how history has looked upon Collaborators who bound themselves to authoritarian power and whether, by going through with this, you will also find yourselves on the wrong side of history. Stay above the noise and the fray.
Resist cheap political stunts and resist the urge to obfuscate and hide behind the notion that you're just forwarding a constituent concern to the "proper venue." Thank you, and I pray your better angels prevail.
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
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Date: September 5, 2023
Time: 1:10 pm
Remote IP: 204.110.48.165
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 1:12 PM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "0" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Lynn Prime
Email: [email protected]
Comment: I am so sorry, as a member of the LGBTQ community, born and raised in Stockton, and a librarian, to see yet another city council bow to the cruel rhetoric related to human beings with a wide range of self-expression, key to them - in my opinion - the right to express who each of us is in a country that prides itself on recognizing the importance of individuals, from birth to death and at every point in between. Please be respectful of all human beings, not least young people trying to discover and express who they are. My father was a former minister who considered himself a pastoral counselor through the medium of choral music. He loved all human beings, which is one of the reasons he felt he had to leave the ministry. Would that ethics and kindness such as he expressed throughout his 90 years of life be embraced as deeply among your council. Libraries are the cornerstone of freedom of thought and expression. Please don't be a part of the destruction some humans seek to bring about with cruelty and hatred.
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
-_-
Date: September 5, 2023
Time: 1:12 pm
Remote IP: 73.92.38.74
••
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments < [email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 1:35 PM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "0" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Smith
Email: [email protected]
Comment: I am a Clovis resident and I am writing to inform the Clovis City Council that the letter they drafted to the Fresno County Board of Supervisors should absolutely NOT be sent. You are not simply informing the Board of "concerns" from residents, despite what your letter states. You are opening the door to restriction and censorship. If a parent is concerned about the contents of a book, they can take personal responsibility to ensure their own child does not check out the book in question. They do not need to also make sure MY child cannot access the book. That is up to me. Do NOT police our libraries.
Sending that letter would be the first step toward a reduction in freedom. You know it is. But perhaps you do not believe in freedom for all people... only for those who share the "family values" that these "concerned" citizens hold? If you decide to forward that letter to the Board of Supervisors, then I must insist that you also write a letter voicing MY concerns.
Sincerely,
Audra Smith
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
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Date: September 5, 2023
Time: 1:35 pm
Remote IP: 73.12.237.99
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 1:58 PM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "O" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Nathan Garcia
Email: [email protected]
Comment: As a millennial and proud Clovis resident, I'd like to express my concern over Diane Pearce's rhetoric, concern for the library, and her motion regarding pride displays and LGBT literature in Fresno County Libraries.
On Facebook, she advised "Might want to wait until June is over to take your kids to the Clovis Public Library. FYI, the Clovis City Council has no direct control over this...these are Fresno County Libraries." I believe there could not be much worse advice (especially from a councilwoman) than to not go to the library for an entire month and that in the future, the Clovis branch should be left alone regarding this issue, considering Library Staff have been harassed since.
I'm gay and grew up not far in Modesto, where I never once saw LGBT materials discriminated against in any way. The pride displays have been up for years and help to offer comfort and support to countless individuals. There is endless potential of benefitting others in this way just by acknowledgment and support, arguably more this month than others.
It's helpful to remember that there are yearly displays for communities like Black History Month, AAPI Month, International Women's History Month, Hispanic Heritage Month, etc.
Thank you for your time and have a great month! I love Clovis! Nathan Garcia
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
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Date: September 5, 2023
Time: 1:57 pm
Remote IP: 174.208.164.21
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments < [email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 2:00 PM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "0" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: LeAnn Phongsa
Email: [email protected]
Comment: It is not an issue that requires "protecting the children." These books are educational and allow potential for greater understanding. It isn't a "concern" if people are being harassed about who they love. The usage of hateful rhetoric towards the LGBTQ+ community is unnecessary. These books have also been there for years. If these books are removed from the shelves, people wouldn't have the resources to learn about their body and themselves.
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
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Date: September 5, 2023
Time: 2:00 pm
Remote IP: 107.77.211.97
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments < [email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 2:01 PM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "0" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Pooja
Email: [email protected]
Comment: Children's books regarding LGBTQ+ subject matter should NOT be removed from the public library. As a psychologist in training I have multiple sources of empirical evidence documenting the positive benefits of open access to resources or representation of LGBTQ+ information for children who are questioning their identity. Denying access does not prevent individuals from discovering their identity, it just attaches shame. Having these books at the library also does not mean that an individual personally cannot block their own child from reading these books. That is a personal choice. Removal of such books takes away such choice.
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
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Date: September 5, 2023
Time: 2:01 pm
Remote IP: 76.35.58.138
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments < [email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 2:07 PM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "O" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Moira Harada
Email: [email protected]
Comment: As a former high school teacher and a parent of an elementary aged child 1 am appalled by the idea that any books be removed from a public library. If parents don't like the books then they can not let their children check them out. Public libraries are for the public and therefore need to cater to everyone, not just what the conservative few believe are ok. I'm a Christian and fully support any LGBTQ+ books and or displays the library chooses to put up. People deserve to see themselves represented in public spaces, and for those spaces to be safe and inclusive. Not to mention that books about a child's changing body can help all children regardless of orientation. The Clovis City Council needs to stop wasting time with this nonsense and stay in their lane! Supporting Files (2 Max.):
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Date: September 5, 2023
Time: 2:07 pm
Remote IP: 68.254.251.217
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments < [email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 2:27 PM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "O" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Monica Blanco Etheridge
Email: [email protected]
Comment: Honorable Councilmembers,
My concerns in addressing you today is the propriety of Clovis City Council sending a letter on this issue to the Fresno County Board of Supervisors (BOS). To quote from your draft written communication "The City Council acknowledges that the selection of library materials is a matter for the County Librarian and the BOS to determine." If this statement is sincere, then no further action by the City Council is either appropriate or required. It was the Council's responsibility to inform your inquiring and concerned constituents of the protocols for their communication with their Board of Supervisors representative. Obviously direct communication between the constituent and their member would accomplish the following objectives among others:
1. The BOS would understand the specific concerns being raised.
2. The BOS could be informed of specific passages, images or references raising concern.
3. Titles of publications could be communicated making any investigation the BOS wished to engage in far more efficient, less consumptive of staff time and supportive of a better stewardship of public funds.
4. The City Council could have avoided distractive controversy over an issue for which the three councilmembers listed in the letter admit they have no authority over.
Thank you for taking the time to review my concerns.
Monica Blanco-Etheridge
282 West Bedtord Ave.
Clovis CA 93611
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
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Date: September 5, 2023
Time: 2:27 pm
Remote IP: 108.240.244.108
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 2:28 PM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "0" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Diane Schoenburg
Email: [email protected]
Comment: Regarding the last line of the letter to Fresno County Regarding Library Concerns: "we know the County will... consider community input to create and maintain a positive and supportive library environment acceptable to human rights, the decision must go in favor of the latter for government actions. There is a wide body of evidence, current and historic, showing that alternate sexual orientations and gender identities have a basis in biology and that many cultures now and throughout time have accepted a range of these things as a natural, normal variant of human existence. Nature has thrived on variety, decisions are often better coming from diverse groups, and loving others while refraining from judging is something that most people from both sides should be able to embrace. Having said that, if there are actually books in the library depicting pornographic acts, then those should be removed, at least from the children's area.
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
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Date: September 5, 2023
Time: 2:28 pm
Remote IP: 107.77.212.182
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 2:30 PM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "O" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Grace Persons
Email: [email protected]
Comment: Hello, my name is Grace Persons. I am a senior at Buchanan High School here in Clovis, and I am writing to urge the council not to ban LGBTQ+ children's books from the Clovis Public Library. Banning books that discuss and depict topics of gender and sexuality is not only wrong but harmful to the youth of Clovis. When you ban books about certain topics, it shows there is an underlying belief that you think that topic is wrong and harmful. Why would you think that stories that depict LGBTQ+ people are wrong or harmful to the youth of Clovis? Is it because these stories share ideas that do not align with your own? Why do you think stories that depict the love and romance between people of the same gender are inappropriate for children to read? Is it the topic of romance for younger children in general? If that is the case then why did I read stories growing up that depicted princesses falling in love with princes, kissing at the end, and living happily ever after? How would that be any different if that story depicted two princesses or two princes? Is it because two people of the same gender fell in love? That makes it "inappropriate", as Mrs. Pearce said in June of this year? Because it has the potential to show children lives and ideas different than what they have been raised to know? We learn from the stories we read, and banning books that have the potential to teach someone about the lives of others, or even potentially about themselves, is rooted in hatefulness and ignorance. If this topic was brought to the council by the complaints of the parents in the community who are concerned that their children could learn of experiences different than their own, or concerned that their children could grow empathic of struggles they may never experience, then let those parents decide to not let their children read those stories. Do not take the choice away from other parents in the community to make that decision for their children. Do not take that choice away from others in the community to read those books; children, adolescents, and adults alike. Banning LGBTQ+ books in Clovis would be harmful, hateful, and ignorant. Please, vote no on this book ban.
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
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Date: September 5, 2023
Time: 2:30 pm
Remote IP: 204.110.47.172
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments < [email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 2:59 PM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "0" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Hope Nitta
Email: [email protected]
Comment: I find the rhetoric being shown by Diane Pierce to be hateful and ignorant and would hate to see it reflected in public spaces such as local libraries. There is nothing more inappropriate about being LGBT than there is in being cisgender and heterosexual (cishet). Is there any logical, factual reason to believe being queer is more perverse than being cishet? It is an ignorant rhetoric spread by people who are more motivated by fear than by reason. A large amount of children's media centers heteronormative ideology (for example, Disney movies often feature a romance between a princess and a prince, or more simply a man and a woman), yet when a queer romance is present in children's media it is seen as predatory and sexually perverted. Even a nonfiction about one of the most important minds in history, Alan Turing, is treated as being inappropriate for children by Pearce simply because he was a gay man.
More than anything gender or sexuality related, this outdated hateful rhetoric is inappropriate for our children and our council members. Council members should be willing to represent everyone equally, without discrimination or bigotry.
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
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Date: September 5, 2023
Time: 2:58 pm
Remote IP: 174.204.66.42
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments < [email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 3:05 PM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "0" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: lan Raguine
Email: [email protected]
Comment: Please do not write this letter. As someone who is an active member of the LGBTQ community these little things during Pride month give me a sense of identity. I'm addition, it is only for a month. This is the only time where I get to feel welcome. I'm sure many people in my community feel the same.
By doing this, it is silencing the little voice we have in today's society Supporting Files (2 Max.):
Date: September 5, 2023
Time: 3:05 pm
Remote IP: 172.56.169.115
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments < [email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 3:06 PM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "O" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Luz
Email: [email protected]
Comment: The banning of books displaying LGBT
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
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Date: September 5, 2023
Time: 3:06 pm
Remote IP: 73.235.33.161
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments < [email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 3:10 PM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "O" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Courtney Ramirez
Email: [email protected]
Comment: Advancing the letter to the county level will end the long-term precedence set by the experts at the Fresno County Library system of providing resources outside of religious bias. If the other city council members do not stop it, they are co-signing a step towards theocracy.
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
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Date: September 5, 2023
Time: 3:10 pm
Remote IP: 73.116.242.94
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 3:22 PM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "0" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Chase Oliver
Email: [email protected]
Comment: Council, protecting children is certainly an important mission, but the banning of books will do the opposite.
The banning of these books will only increase the stigma around LGBTQ+ youth, which will lead to more bullying and hate. The high suicide rates among members of the LGBTQ+ community aren't a result of their identities, its a tragic result of the hate and misunderstanding that stems from policies such as these that hide knowledge that could promote greater understanding of our fellow citizens.
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
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Date: September 5, 2023
Time: 3:22 pm
Remote IP: 76.158.123.144
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 3:31 PM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "0" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Luz
Email: [email protected]
Comment: The banning of books that display LGBT+ is completely unnecessary and does not cause any harm whatsoever. The only reason why it's such a concern, it is because is mainly based on belief and/or opinions on queer individuals just existing and living alone rather than based on facts. Other than that, LGBT+ books does not demand or force others who they are, who they should be, or what they should believe in, it is simply to share and show someone's experience as a queer individual or to teach and every person has a choice whether to read them or not Supporting Files (2 Max.):
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Date: September 5, 2023
Time: 3:31 pm
Remote IP: 73.235.33.161
Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments < [email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 3:51 PM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "O" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Jess Fitzpatrick
Email: [email protected]
Comment: Good Afternoon, I am writing to share my concern and disappointment about this letter to Fresno County Board of Supervisors. The wording of the letter uses inflammatory rhetoric to grossly mischaracterize the content of the Pride display at Clovis Library and the books that were a part of it, in a way that demeans not only the LGBTQ+ community, BUT ALL Clovis and Fresno County citizens. IF there was real concern they could have put in a complaint with the Library itself, which has an incredibly rigorous review process of any books they provide to determine their fitness and age appropriateness. Please do not further compromise the freedom of your citizens to access information that they pay for through taxes, and get back to the business of providing excellent city resources instead.
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
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Date: September 5, 2023
Time: 3:50 pm
Remote IP: 12.68.21.210
Rebecca Simonian
From: Andrew Haussler
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 3:53 PM
To: Rebecca Simonian; Karey Cha
Subject: Public Comment Via Phone
Ms. Mangrum called asking to submit. She asked for an accommodation from doing it online (ADA) Stephanie Mangrum - A concerned parent from Clovis Unified, heard council received messages from concerned parents about books on school campuses. Not sure if it is the library as well. As a parent I want Council to leave books in place that show children the natural biological processes in which our bodies are made. Also am concerned of the fact that we have other people living in our city that are trying to keep this information away from children that we are trying keep the science away from children. I plead Council considers not banning any books at all.
Andy Haussler
Assistant City Manager
City of Clovis
(559) 324-2095
[email protected]
1 Rebecca Simonian
From: Public Comments < [email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 3:58 PM
To: Karey Cha; Andrew Haussler; Rebecca Simonian
Subject: [External] Public Comment for City Council
Council Meeting Date: 2023-09-05
Item Number (put "O" if your comment is regarding an item not on the agenda): 20 Full Name: Rebecca Dyck
Email: [email protected]
Comment: As a concerned citizen and longtime member of the Clovis Public Library, I do not support item #20 on tonight's agenda.
Supporting Files (2 Max.):
Date: September 5, 2023
Time: 3:57 pm
Remote IP: 209.234.208.198
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