April 11, 2023
MINUTES
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT:
Nerio-Guerrero, Prado, Reynosa
COUNCIL MEMBERS ABSENT:
Launer, Thusu
STAFF MEMBERS PRESENT:
Avila, Hurtado, Iriarte, James, Montejano, Patlan, Solis, Watts, Webster, Yanez
1. OPENING CEREMONIES
1.1. Welcome and Call to Order
Mayor Reynosa called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m.
1.2. Invocation
The invocation was led by Chaplain Garcia.
1.3. Pledge of Allegiance
The pledge of allegiance was led by Council Member Prado.
2. AGENDA CHANGES OR DELETIONS
To better accommodate members of the public or convenience in the order of presentation, items on the agenda may not be presented or acted upon in the order listed. Additions to Agenda may be added only pursuant to California Government Code section 54954.2(b).
Item 3.1 Introduction of the 2023 Cinco de Mayo Pageant Contestants, contestants will not be attending.
3. PRESENTATIONS/CEREMONIAL MATTERS
3.1. Introduction of the 2023 Cinco de Mayo Pageant Contestants (MA) Agenda change, the 2023 Cinco de Mayo Pageant Contestants did not attend.
4. REQUEST TO ADDRESS COUNCIL
This portion of the meeting is reserved for any person who would like to address the Council on any item that is not on the agenda. Please be advised that State law does not allow the City Council to discuss or take any action on any issue not on the agenda. The City Council may direct staff to follow up on such item(s). Speakers are limited to three (3) minutes. If there is any person wishing to address the City Council at this time please approach the podium and state your name and nature of the request.
None.
5. NEW EMPLOYEES AND PROMOTIONS
5.1. Police Department Promotions: Rosalva Flores, Robin Galvan & Samuel Hara (AI)
Police Chief Iriarte recognized Rosalva Flores on her recent promotion from Dispatcher to Records Technician, effective October 9, 2022. Flores has lived in Dinuba most of her and is married to Adam Flores who is also a City of Dinuba employee. Flores began her employment with the city in 1999, she briefly left employment and returned in 2006.
Police Chief Iriarte recognized Samuel Hara for his recent promotion from Evidence Technician to full-time Animal Control Officer, effective February 13, 2023. Hara began his employment with the city in 2011 as a part-time Animal Control Officer and in 2021 Hara was promoted to full-time Evidence Technician.
Hara actively participates in community events and has a passion for helping animals.
Police Chief Iriarte recognized Robin Galvan on her recent promotion from parttime Animal Control Officer to full-time Dispatcher, effective February 13, 2023.
Galvan is born and raised in Dinuba. Galvan began employment with the city as a part-time Animal Control Officer and held the position for one year before promoting to Dispatcher. Galvan has a lot of positive energy and is active in the community.
Council congratulated staff on their promotions and offered words of encouragement and support. Council thanked staff for their commitment to the community.
5.2. Introduction of Full-Time Public Safety Dispatcher Leelah Espino (AI) Police Chief Iriarte recognized Leelah Espino as the new Public Safety Dispatcher that was hired on March 29, 2023. Espino is originally from Fresno but recently relocated to Dinuba. Espino has two children and was joined by her husband.
Council offered words of encouragement and wished Espino luck in her new job.
The Council commended the Police Department staff for their show of support for one another.
6. CONSENT CALENDAR
Matters listed under the Consent Calendar are considered routine and will be enacted by one motion and one vote. There will be no separate discussion of these items. If discussion is desired, a member of the audience or a Council Member may request an item be removed from the Consent Calendar and it will be considered separately.
6.1. SUBJECT
Resolution No. 2023-22 Approving the Abandonment/Vacation of a Public Alley and Dedication of a Public Utility Easement in connection with the Sequoia Apartment Complex Project (JW)
a
RECOMMENDATION
Council adopts Resolution No. 2023-22 by one motion taking the following actions:
1. Approve the abandonment/vacation of the existing Public Alley that currently exists through the proposed Sequoia Apartment complex property; and
2. Approve the right-of-way dedication for a public utility easement through the proposed Sequoia Apartment complex property.
6.2. SUBJECT
Resolution No. 2023-20 Authorizing Reallocation of Opioid Distributor Settlement Payments to Tulare County (DY)
a
RECOMMENDATION
Council to adopt Resolution No. 2023-20 authorizing the Financed Director transfer two (2) direct payments in the amount of $7,815.84 and $8,214.07, and any future payments received, from the National Prescription Drug Litigation Settlement Funds to Tulare County for programs and activities aimed at preventing the abuse of prescription drugs throughout Tulare County.
6.3. SUBJECT
Approval of City Council Meeting Minutes (MA)
a
RECOMMENDATION
Council to review and approve City Council meeting minutes of March 28, 2023 as presented.
6.4. SUBJECT
Alta Historical Society Gold Level Sponsorship for the Spring Celebration Dinner (MA)
a
RECOMMENDATION
Council approve Gold Level sponsorship in the amount of $750 for the Alta Historical Society Spring Celebration Dinner and Auction event on April 15, 2023.
6.5. SUBJECT
Resolution No. 2023-23 Authorization of City of Dinuba's Participation in New 2022 Opioid Settlements and Reallocation of Settlement Payments to Tulare County for Opioid Abuse Abatement (DY)
a
RECOMMENDATION
City Council to take the following actions by one motion and one vote:
1. Adopt Resolution 2023-23 authorizing City Manager or his designee to execute new national Opioid settlement participation forms to allow the City of Dinuba to receive—via direct payments or reallocation to Tulare County— settlement payments from proposed settlements with manufacturers Teva and Allergan and chain pharmacies CVS, Walgreens, and Walmart.
2. Authorize the City Manager or his designee to approve the reallocation of any settlement payments from proposed settlements with manufacturers Teva and Allergan and chain pharmacies CVS, Walgreens, and Walmart to Tulare County for the purpose of Opioid abuse abatement.
6.6. SUBJECT
Silver Level Sponsorship for the Dinuba Lions Club Annual Signature Fundraiser to be held on Saturday, Apri 29, 2023.(MA)
a
RECOMMENDATION
Council approve Silver Level Sponsorship for the Dinuba Lyons Club Annual Dinner Fundraiser in the amount of $500.
6.7. SUBJECT
Cancellation of City Council Meeting on April 25, 2023 (MA) a
RECOMMENDATION
Council to consider cancellation of the City Council meeting scheduled for April 25, 2023.
A motion was made by Council Member Prado , second by Vice Mayor NerioGuerrero, to review and approve as presented.
Ayes: Nerio-Guerrero, Prado , Reynosa
Absent: Launer, Thusu
7. WARRANT REGISTER
7.1. SUBJECT
Warrant Register March 31, 2023 (KS)
a
RECOMMENDATION
Council to review and approve the Warrant Register as presented.
A motion was made by Vice Mayor Nerio-Guerrero, second by Council Member Prado , to review and approve as presented.
Ayes: Nerio-Guerrero, Prado , Reynosa
Absent: Launer, Thusu
8. PUBLIC HEARING
8.1. SUBJECT
Public Hearing to Consider Resolution No. 2023-21 Approving Annual Review and Adjustment to Fees, Charges and Fines (KS)
a
RECOMMENDATION
Council to conduct a public hearing to solicit community input, close the public hearing and adopt Resolution No. 2023-21 implementing the recommended charges and user fees effective July 1, 2023.
Administrative Services Director Solis provided information on the user fee study conducted by Wildan Financial Services that evaluates all city charges and fees assessed for providing city services. The analysis of fees is based on the full cost of providing city services including salaries, benefits, and direct departmental costs. Solis introduced Priti Patel from Wildan Financial Services to answer any questions that the council may have.
Mayor Reynosa opened the public hearing. No comments were made.
Mayor Reynosa closed the public hearing.
A motion was made by Council Member Prado , second by Vice Mayor NerioGuerrero, to adopt Resolution No. 2023-21 implementing the recommended charges and user fees effective July 1, 2023.
Ayes: Nerio-Guerrero, Prado , Reynosa
Absent: Launer, Thusu
9. DEPARTMENT REPORTS
9.1. SUBJECT
Award of Contract to JT2, Inc. DBA Todd Companies in the amount of $313.952.90 for the Entertainment Plaza Restroom Improvements Project; State Project No. 18-54-004 (JW)
a
RECOMMENDATION
Council to award the contract for the Entertainment Plaza Restroom Improvements Project to JT2, Inc. DBA Todd Companies in the amount of $313,952.90 and authorize the City Manager or designee to execute the contract documents.
City Engineer Watts reported that numerous activities are held at the Entertainment Plaza and a public restroom is needed to accommodate the community's needs. Watts advised that the previous restrooms were demolished in 2021 and portable bathrooms are being used at this time. The project was advertised and one bid was received from Todd Companies. Watts asked the council to award the contract for the Entertainment Plaza Restroom Improvements Project to Todd Companies in the amount of $313,952.90.
Council Member Prado asked why there was only one bid submitted for the project. Watts advised that this project is small and the size of the project most likely played a factor. Prado asked about the project's duration. Watts advised that the project will move fast and is expected to be completed by June 2nd, in time for a city event.
Mayor Reynosa asked if there would only be one restroom. Watts shared that it would be a three-restroom facility with storage space.
City Manager Patlan advised that the Master Plan shows two potential sites for the restrooms. The location will be more visible with an auto timer that will self lock daily.
A motion was made by Vice Mayor Nerio-Guerrero, second by Council Member Prado , to award the contract for the Entertainment Plaza Restroom Improvements Project to JT2, Inc. DBA Todd Companies in the amount of $313,952.90 and authorize the City Manager or designee to execute the contract documents.
Ayes: Nerio-Guerrero, Prado , Reynosa
Absent: Launer, Thusu
9.2. SUBJECT
Award of Contract to Avison Construction, Inc. in the amount of $472.348 for the Road 74 Street Improvements Project (JW)
a
RECOMMENDATION
Council to award the contract for the Road 74 Street Improvements Project to Avison Construction, Inc. in the amount of $472,348.00 and authorize the City Manager or designee to execute the contract documents.
City Engineer Watts reported that Road 74 is completely deteriorated and has exceeded its pavement life. The project consists of the reconstruction of the pavement structural section and aggregate base shoulders from Sierra Way to Kamm Avenue on Road 74. The project was formally advertised, and twelve bids were received. The lowest bid was received from Avison Construction, Inc. in the amount of $472,348.00. Avison is currently working on the Dinuba High School project and their equipment is readily available. Watts advised that the project came in under budget and will move quickly.
Council is excited to have the road repaired.
A motion was made by Council Member Prado , second by Vice Mayor NerioGuerrero, to award the contract for the Road 74 Street Improvements Project to Avison Construction, Inc. in the amount of $472,348.00 and authorize the City Manager or designee to execute the contract documents.
Ayes: Nerio-Guerrero, Prado , Reynosa
Absent: Launer, Thusu
9.3. SUBJECT
Annual Audit Report for Fiscal Year 2021-22 (KS)
a
RECOMMENDATION
Council to accept the Independent Auditor's Report for the Fiscal Year 2021-22.
Administrative Services Director Solis reported that Lance, Soll, and Lunghard, LLP (LSL) conducted an audit of the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) for Fiscal Year 2021-22. Solis reported that this audit year is Lance, Soll, and Lunghard's fifth and final year working with the city and work will soon begin with new auditors. Solis introduced Brandon Young with Lance, Soll, and Lunghard, LLP to present a summary of the financial report, via Zoom.
Young provided a brief summary of the audit conducted using government auditing standards that included the City of Dinuba's financial statements and governmental activities focusing on city processes and tracking ending June 30, 2022. Young advised that there was one material finding as listed on the Auditor's Report on Internal Control letter under the Schedule of Findings and Responses.
Young advised that the city has made progress and continues to improve, with positive growth from 5 years ago.
City Manager Patlan advised the council that questions can be asked at any time in the future. Patlan thanked Solis and the city staff for their hard work on the audit.
Patlan stated that findings have improved from fifteen in the first audit year to one finding in the current audit. Patlan thanked all departments for providing information and expressed appreciation for their hard work.
Assistant City Manager James advised that the last five audits are available on the city website for review.
A motion was made by Vice Mayor Nerio-Guerrero, second by Council Member Prado , to accept the Independent Auditor's Report for the Fiscal Year 2021-22.
Ayes: Nerio-Guerrero, Prado , Reynosa
Absent: Launer, Thusu
10. MAYOR/COUNCIL REPORTS
Council Member Prado thanked Interim Public Works Director Avila and City Manager Patlan for their fast work in resolving an issue in his district. Prado thanked Parks staff for their work on this year's Spring Fling, he heard good things about the event.
Vice Mayor Nerio-Guerrero reported attending the ribbon cutting for Pose Salon. NerioGuerrero attended this year's Spring Fling and reported that it was very well attended, she had a good time. Nerio Guerrero recently attended a luncheon at the Senior Center and shared that it was well-attended with lots of seniors enjoying the luncheon and ice cream.
Mayor Reynosa reported attending the Spring Fling and thanked staff for their hard work, the event was very well attended. Reynosa asked if changing the location from the Recreation Center to the Downtown Plaza made a difference in attendance. Director Hurtado shared that the nice weather most likely made the difference. Reynosa reported that she was asked about the city-wide yard sale and if it was going to happen again.
Reynosa thanked city staff for doing a good job and expressed thanks to Interim Public Works Director Avila for stepping in as Public Works Director.
11. CITY MANAGER COMMUNICATIONS
City Manager Patlan congratulated Engineer Watts on the arrival of his baby girl. Patlan reported that a city resident expressed appreciation for the medical aid provided to their mother on April 2nd. The Fire department staff demonstrated compassion and empathy during the medical call. Patlan advised that it will be a busy next couple of months with workshops for the utility user fees. Patlan thanked Interim Public Works Director Avila for stepping into the Department Director role. Avila will be on vacation soon and Patlan will keep in touch with Steve Barron and Engineer Watts for department updates.
12. CITY STAFF COMMUNICATIONS
Assistant City Manager James advised the Kickoff meeting for the conceptual design project is tomorrow. James expressed excitement about the project.
City Attorney Yanez advised that he has been busy working on projects with various departments.
Administrative Services Director Solis advised that the city will transition to new auditors soon. Solis thanked city staff for their hard work and contribution during the audit. Solis reported that staff is busy working on the budget and soon will schedule a workshop to present figures.
Interim Public Works Director Avila shared that staff has been very helpful during the transition. Avila advised that he will do his best to help Public Works thrive and is humbled by the opportunity.
Engineer Watts reported that there will be a lot of construction projects this summer. Watts advised that open bids for KC Vista Park and the restriping project are this Thursday.
Police Chief Iriarte reported that he will have the swearing and introductions for three Reserve Officers at the next council meeting. Iriarte reported participating in an event at Felix Delgado Park on the 6th, the event was well attended. Iriarte advised that April 22, 2023, is National Drug Takeback at the Police Department from 10 am-2 pm. Iriarte shared that on April 18th he will be presenting Officer Josue Silva as Officer of the Year.
The event will be held at the Reedley Elks Lodge. Iriarte shared that a Tulare Police Officer took his life.
Fire Chief Webster reported that city fire staff and VROP staff toured the City of Clovis training facility for design ideas. Webster advised that Single Role Paramedic interviews will be held Thursday and fire staff will be attending training in Kingsburg next week. Webster advised that he will be presenting Bryan Marsh as Paramedic of the Year, the event will be held at the Reedley Elks Lodge.
13. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 7:31 p.m.