ASCALON MINUTES
CALIFORNIA CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ESCALON
MEETING OF AUGUST 21, 2023
City Council Chambers, 2060 McHenry Avenue - 7:00 P.M.
INCORPORATED MARCH 12,1951
Beginning Resolution No. 34-23
Beginning Ordinance No. 593
Beginning Minute Order No. 40-23
PRESENT: Mayor David Bellinger
Mayor Pro Tem Andrew Thomas Hagan
Councilmember Jeremy Engle
Councilmember Malinda Walker
Councilmember Shawn Strohman
STAFF PRESENT: Dominique Romo, City Manager/City Clerk
Jaylen French, Development and Community Services Manager Juston Collins, Public Works Superintendent
Jose Zambrana, Police Sergeant
Ivett Arevalo, Deputy City Clerk
Frank Splendorio, City Attorney
PRESENTATION
Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Awards to Police Officers Lawrence Baldonado and Nicholas Escalon Police Department Seargent Jose Zambrana presented by giving statistics provided by Mothers Against Drunk Driving and emphasized that the City takes DUl offenses very seriously and exercises the full extent of the law when dealing with intoxicated drivers.
He stated that Officer Lawrence Baldonado could not be present and that there were 32 DUI arrests between Officers Baldonado and Geck.
Sergeant Zambrana presented Escalon Police Department officer Nicholas Geck with an award on behalf of Mother Against Drunk driving for having more than 10 DUI arrests.
Mayor David Bellinger thanked Officer Geck and his fellow officer for all the work they do.
CONSENT CALENDAR
These items are considered routine in nature and are acted upon by a single action unless requested by an individual Council Member or member of the public for special consideration.
1. Approve the Minutes from the Regular Meeting of August 7, 2023.
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2. Approve the Register of Demands for August 4-16, 2023 in the amount of $ 334,036.49.
3. Approve the Final Acceptance of Public Improvements for Project 18-689B located on McHenry Avenue, south of Catherine Way (APNs 247-150-710-000, 247-150-720-000, 247-150-7300-000)
4. Adopt Resolution No. XX-23, Authorizing the City Manager to advertise various City Owned Properties for Lease.
Mayor Bellinger abstained from Item 3 on the Consent Calendar and Councilmember Engle pulled Item 1.
MOTION - It is moved/seconded by STROHMAN/HAGAN that Items 2-4 on the Consent Calendar be approved as presented, with Mayor Bellinger abstained from Item 3. Motion carried unanimously (5-0) MINUTE ORDER 40-23
Councilmember Engle stated that he felt that there was a deficit in the Minutes for the last meeting. He stated that the main points discussed at the regular City Council meeting on August 7, 2023 by both the Council and the public were not recorded in the minutes.
Councilmember Engle stated he is willing to approve the minutes for the August 7, 2023 City Council meeting as presented with the condition that moving forward, minutes should contain more comprehensive details, particularly for meetings with extensive discussions.
City Manager Dominique Romo advised Council that Minutes main function are to document Council's actions and directions. She informed the Council that the more information placed in the Minutes, the more time it will take staft to complete, and that along with Minutes, there is video of the meetings on YouTube and audio recordings, but that if the Council prefers comprehensive minutes, staff will do so.
Councilmember Engle stated that he would like more comprehensive minutes and requested the opinion of the other Councilmembers.
Mayor Pro Tem Hagan asked Councilmember Engle what goal he had in mind.
He stated that as he was going through the Minutes, he noticed relevant statements or questions made by members of the audience weren't included in the Minutes. He stated that the statements made by Mayor Pro Tem Hagan during the council communication portion of the City Council meeting on 8/7/23 were not included in the Minutes.
Mayor Pro Tem Hagan asked Councilmember Engle if by asking for comprehensive minutes he is asking staff to include summarized statements made by everyone who speaks during a council meeting Councilmember Engle responded affirmatively.
Mayor Bellinger asked the rest of the Council if any of them had any comments to add City Manager Romo asked the Council for consensus on Minutes being more comprehensive going forward and if acknowledgment of every speaker was appropriate.
Mayor Pro Tem Hagan stated that a summary of what each speaker says is fair. U Mayor Bellinger stated that if staff dictated what every speaker said, the Minutes could be up to 20 pages long
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City Manager Romo stated that staff will prepare the Minutes as directed and if they would like to approve Item 1 or continue to next meeting.
Councilmember Engle stated that he reviewed the YouTube video and is satisfied the Minutes were recorded appropriately but requests that future Minutes include more detail.
MOTION - It is moved/seconded by HAGAN/STROHMAN that Item 1 (Minutes) on the Consent Calendar be approved as presented. Motion carried unanimously (5-0) MINUTE ORDER 41-23
STAFF COMMUNICATIONS & UPDATES
5. a. Recreation Report for July
b. Development Services Report for July
c. Public Works Report for July
d. Building Department Report for July
e. Water Department Report for July
f. Wastewater Treatment Plant Report for July
g. City Manager Report/Updates
i. Informational Updates
City Manager Romo introduced reports provided and asked if Council had any questions.
Mayor Bellinger asked Public Works Superintendent Collins to announce upcoming CalTRANS plans to the public.
Public Works Superintendent Collins stated that the CalTRANS roadwork on SR 120 is still on track for September 3 to September 9, 2023. He stated that while the work performed will not be a complete repave, it will cover a large portion. He stated that the contractor is aware that the road work will be completed during a holiday weekend and during tomato season and has promised these events will not affect their work.
Mayor Pro Tem Hagan asked Public Works Superintendent Collins for updates on graffiti found on slides and ceiling.
Public Works Superintendent Collins stated that the graffiti had been cleaned up that morning.
Mayor Bellinger asked if the Council had any additional questions.
Mayor Pro Tem Hagan asked Sergeant Zambrana how Chief of Police Gustavo Flores was doing.
Sergeant Zambrana stated that Chief Flores is doing well and is expected to return to duty the upcoming Monday.
Mayor Bellinger asked if there were any additional questions for staff and upon not hearing any allowed staff to continue with Staff Communications and updates.
Community and Development Manager French informed Council that he and staff continue to work on the Smoke Shop Ordinance. He stated that staff realized that the best approach is to go through Title 17 zoning therefore staff will need to meet with the Planning Commission and that staff hopes to present this matter to them at their September 12 meeting and then bring to Council on September 18th.
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Community and Development Manager French also stated that he spoke with David Hillier with Hillier Ford who shared it will take a couple of months for Hillier Ford to closeout business operations and that after Hillier closes out his business, he will then decide how to handle the property lease/sale, which he says has a lot of interested parties.
He then announced that new McDonald's is under full construction and that it is under a 120-day construction window. He also stated that Orlando's Market hopes for a soft opening on Labor Day weekend.
Community and Development Services Manager French then informed the Council that he has been meeting with various businesses and organizations and would like to start meeting with the public and any community members who have any thoughts, concerns, questions on economic development.
He then provided and update on the 6th cycle Housing Element and announced a community survey available to the public via the city website, with a printed copy to be sent out soon, and that a community workshop will be scheduled in upcoming weeks, with the draft out in the coming months.
City Manager Romo asked Sergeant Zambrana if he had an Escalon Police Department update.
Sergeant Zambrana stated he did not.
City Manager Romo announced that the Commission on Aging position is still open to receive applications until Friday August 25, 2023. She encouraged interested parties to contact City Hail.
City Manager Romo shared that a draft budget will be brought to the next meeting, to be held on Tuesday, September 5" instead of Monday, due to Labor Day Holiday. She stated that the budget will be discussed in U two parts to allow the Council more time to discuss and review. The General Fund and enterprise funds will be discussed at the September 5, 2023 City Council meeting and all the remaining funds will be presented September 18.
City Manager Romo informed the Council that the Finance Director/HR Administrator and Police Officer positions will be out for recruitment by the end of the week.
City Manager Romo then provided an Escalon Parks Foundation (EPF) update. She stated that they that they reported a little over $100,000 in donated funds, that they are working with Dreamland on construction/costs of the park, and that EPF advised they will reach out to facilitate a presentation for the Council when they are ready to move forward.
City Manager Romo also updated Council that the 2+2 School District meeting for August was cancelled and that the next meeting is September 14, and that Black Water Consultants Inc., will attend next meeting to provide a Wastewater Treatment Plant Project presentation.
MATTERS PRESENTED FROM THE AUDIENCE
At this time, the public may address the City Council on any item, not on the agenda that is within the authority of the Council. The speaker is limited to a maximum of five minutes. Unused time may not be yielded to another speaker. The determination of whether an item is within the authority of the Council is a discretionary decision made by Mayor.
Sherry Hill referenced a presentation made by Jeff Sales on August 7 on a petition to lower development tees associated with a possible senior housing development. She requested the Council not consider lessening U tees as requested. She cited the fact that the proposed senior development would offer market value housing and stated most seniors she knows could not afford it. She then stated she agreed with the deferral of those fees but that market value housing will not help the majority of seniors in need of affordable housing. She also expressed her disappointment with Council's decision on the appeal filed by Samuel and Stephanie
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Orlando, stating that while the current Council is not the Council that changed the zoning for the area, the property owner who is using his property as residential property, should have been treated as a resident. She stated it is not right or fair to require him to pay half of a fence and if that business is there next to a residence, that business should be responsible for that. She added that if that owner ever decides to sell the property, it becomes commercial, and should be treated as commercial property. She requested the Council look out for residents more.
Doug Pruden, Deborah Circle, stated that on August 19, 2023 his children were outside playing 20 minutes prior to a person crashing into a parked vehicle across the street and added that the driver was under the influence of alcohol or another substance. He stated that he has been before the Council a handful of times requesting that the City install speed bumps and/or a stop sign at Deborah Circle and Deborah Court. He states that despite his numerous requests, there has been no response or updates. He asked the Council what is going on stated that while the speed trailer was placed there a while ago, but has nothing since then.
The resident stated that he felt speed bumps and a stop sign are a necessity, especially with the expected opening of McDonalds and that people who do not live there will take that road to avoid stop signs after a night of drinking to get fast food at the McDonalds.
Danny Fox referenced the June 5 meeting, where there was action taken by Council to conduct a workshop on the city budget on June 19th, 2023 at 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM, put a stay on approving the budget by June 30th, 2023 deadline, and approve the formal budget at the July 17th, 2023 regular City Council meeting unless otherwise decided. (Minute Order 28-23) He stated there was a presentation but no budget workshop He asked if a Minute Order was just semantics and questioned how much authority a Minute Order actually has. Fox stated that if the majority of the council votes on something and it is not followed, where it stops.
Mayor Bellinger informed Mr. Fox that the Council will have to investigate getting an answer but that a response could not be given during the Matter Presented by the Audience and then inquired if there were anymore questions for the Council.
PUBLIC HEARING
6. Adopt Resolution No. XX-23, Approving the Updated City of Escalon's Title VI Program for eTrans and Limited English Proficiency Plan.
Transit Manager John Andoh requested the Council hold a public hearing to review the E Trans Title 6 program every three years.
He stated that the City is required to review the Title 6 program every 3 years to ensure that the City is not discriminating based on race, color, or natural origin in the programs and activities in relation to receiving federal funds. He gave an overview of the requirements sub recipients include in their Title VI Program. He stated that after the Council adopts this program, training will be provided to operations contractors as necessary to ensure they are complying with the program. He states that this public hearing was advertised in the newspaper, on busses and on the website and welcomed any questions.
Hearing no questions, Mayor Bellinger opened the public hearing at 7:32 PM.
Hearing no questions, Mayor Bellinger closed the public hearing at 7:32 PM MOTION - It is moved/seconded by HAGAN/STROHMAN to approve the Updated City of Escalon's Title VI Program for eTrans and Limited English Proficiency Plan. Motion carried unanimously (5-0) MINUTE ORDER 42-23
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ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
7. Receive Update and Consider Recommendations on the City's Business License and Home Occupation Application Review and Processing Procedures, and provide direction as necessary.
Community and Development Services Manager French presented the staff report on this item, stating that staff received direction to review and find ways to expedite the business license and home occupation permit process. He stated that staff has undertaken a thorough review of the internal process at the City, as well as reviewed the approach and process for 15 other cities listed on the staff report, and that the goal was to see if there were inefficiencies and explore ways to expedite and streamline the processes.
He then reviewed the recommended changes to the business license and home occupation processing procedures and answered questions.
Councilmember Engle stated that this was exactly what he was asking for when requesting to review this item.
Councilmember Strohman asked staff to explain home occupations, to which Community and Development Services Manager French responded.
Judy Lopez asked for clarification on the vendor licenses for events like Park Fete.
It was the consensus of City Council to approve the recommendations as presented by staff.
8. Review Council Goals and Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) for FY 2023-2024 U Budget. (Continued from the August 7 meeting)
City Manager Romo presented a Power Point presentation. City Manager Romo discussed the City's FY 2022-23 goals, including senior housing development, department head vacancies, recreation program assessment, funding exploration for surface water connection, and code enforcement. She emphasized the city's tocus on maintaining quality of life, family-oriented community, low crime rates, and managing growth. She also mentioned interests in adopting a strategic plan and economic development plan to maximize the City's assets for economic benefit.
City Manager Romo reviewed the Council/City Manager Goals from FY 2023-24, and then presented other potential goals that the Council or members of Council have brought up in past meetings, that Council may wish to consider, including a strategic plan, economic development plan, Hogan-Ennis Park expansion, community pool, skatepark, SRO, Sales Tax Measure, residential sidewalk and crosswalk improvements.
City Manager Romo then reviewed the list of capital improvement projects, including streets, water, sewer, and stormwater improvements, park developments, etc. She also highlighted ongoing projects like the sewer trunk line rehabilitation, lift station improvements, surface water, Well IA, wastewater treatment plant engineering plans, etc.
Councilmember Engle inquired how many projects on the street projects listing have been rolled over year after year, besides the slurry projects. PW Superintendent Collins advised none, and then City Manager Romo further advised that the First Street Project was a project that was unable to move forward in past, but has since been revived and consolidated with the Main Street Bike and Pedestrian Project to be completed as a downtown project.
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Councilmember Strohman asked about the increase in costs for certain capital improvement projects compared to the previous year's budget. He inquired about the McHenry trunk line rehabilitation project and the lift station improvements.
City Manager Romo and PW Superintendent Collins explained that the increased costs were due to economic escalation and further refinement of the projects. The McHenry trunk line project costs had increased due to the competitive bidding process and overall rising costs for such projects. The lift station improvements had budgeting issues and required more extensive work than originally anticipated City Manager Romo then reviewed future planning items currently forecasted for the City, which are dependent on funding, needs, timelines, etc. She then inquired with Council what their goals are are.
Councilmember Strohman stated he would like Council to focus on the Strategic Plan.
Councilmember Walker inquired about the Sales Tax Measure as she felt this was an item Council previously showed interest towards. City Manager Romo concurred advising that this is an item staff will be bringing to Council for consideration, but that it doesn't hurt to add it as a goal of Council.
City Attorney Splendorio advised that Council has expressed interest in revenue generation options, so including it as goal is appropriate.
Mayor Bellinger supported adding revenue generating options to the goals. Mayor Pro Tem Hagan agreed Councilmember Engle asked for some time to review goals and come back to a future meeting to discuss further and share goals.
Councilmember Walker expressed interest in improving communication with the community which included updating the website.
Danny Fox requested that Council focus on economic development and catching the SR 120 traffic, recommending an Ad Hoc Committee be established to move on these items.
Betty Bennett inquired about the Main Street Bike and Pedestrian Project. Staff provided an update on the project.
Councilmember Walker brought up having a discussion about residential sidewalks specifically on the streets/blocks surrounding schools like Dent, Brayton, Mitchell, Yosemite, etc.
Council gave consensus to bring this item back to Council next meeting.
COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS AND FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
9. Discussion and Direction regarding City Council Communications and Potential Sunshine Policies.
City Manager Romo introduced agenda item requested by Mayor Pro Tem Hagan and Councilmember Engle.
Mayor Pro Tem Hagan raised concerns about recent events, including a meeting hosted by Councilmember Strohman at the library. He stressed the importance of unity, respect, and transparency, especially in a divided time. Mayor Pro Tem Hagan stated that when arranging meetings involving prominent figures like state representatives and officials, it's respectful and transparent to inform the Mayor and City Manager. He also
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advocated for inviting the community to such events to ensure transparency. Mayor Pro Tem Hagan mentioned that conversations at a recent meeting regarding state rent control (AB 1482) were concerning.
He brought up the potential for legal issues regarding a private meeting between Councilmember Strohman and the owner of Harmony, even though the City had taken an official position on the matter. He stressed that the City Manager and City Attorney should be present in such meetings to avoid misunderstandings and legal problems. He requested clarity and a defined process for such situations moving forward.
Councilmember Engle contradicted this with evidence from an email sent to Council by the City Manager.
He then pointed out another falsehood, where Councilmember Strohman initially declared a meeting wasn't secret but then emphasized confidentiality.
Councilmember Engle criticized Councilman Strohman's remarks about the Almond Grove property. He highlighted Councilman Strohman's claim during a past Planning Commission meeting, that adding a deed restriction could lead to selling the park without concern for residents. Councilmember Engle stated he found this alarming and referenced specific timestamps in the meeting for verification. He emphasized the importance of honesty, transparency, and accountability, expressing his frustration with the misinformation.
Councilmember Engle commended the meeting's recording for transparency and encouraged further research to uncover the truth.
Mayor Bellinger stated he is not interested in looking in the past and wants to focus on the future.
In response to Danny Fox's inquiry under Matters Presented to the Audience portion of the meeting Mayor Pro Tem Hagan stated concerns about motion 28-23 from June 5 meeting will be investigated.
Councilmember Walker discussed the potential sunshine policy and the existing Brown Act that the Council follows. She expressed her understanding of an email received on July 31st, which she understood to suggest that meetings with constituents were acceptable if no more than two council members were present. She stated that she understood the need to inform everyone appropriately about future meetings and how more than two councilmembers at an event would require someone to leave, similar to current community interactions. Councilmember Walker stated she appreciated the CIP discussion and emphasized the importance of aligning with the community's direction. She also underlined the significance of encouraging citizen engagement and supporting neighbors in Escalon, even if not explicitly stated as a goal and expressed gratitude to those who attended the meeting.
Councilmember Strohman addressed concerns, particularly those brought up by Mayor Pro Tem Hagan. He acknowledged the importance of transparency when meeting with constituents and agreed that it should be public knowledge. He explained that due to the Brown Act, informing Mayor Bellinger about such a meeting would have violated the Act since he had already spoken to Councilmember Walker. Councilmember Strohman further clarified his statement from the last meeting, noting that he was advised by staff and the City Attorney that making the entire Council aware would constitute a public meeting under the Brown Act.
He mentioned residents' fears of retaliation and the need to protect their anonymity, which was why the meeting was organized with confidentiality in mind.
In response to previous statements by Councilman Engle about community input, Councilmember Strohman questioned how the recent meeting was any different from those statements. He indicated that a small committee organized the meeting and emphasized that it wasn't city business. He stated that he discussed matters at the meeting as an individual, not representing the Council. While he acknowledged that the meeting did not discuss specific topics like rent control, he chose to honor the commitment made during the meeting
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to protect the anonymity of residents who attended. He encouraged open dialogue with the public and reiterated his dedication to collaborative efforts that would ultimately benefit the community.
Mayor Pro Tem Hagan responded to Councilmember Strohman's remarks. He acknowledged Councilmember Stroman's perspective but highlighted that if he had intended to make the meeting public, the Brown Act would have allowed him to do so. He stated that according to the Brown Act, Councilmember Strohman had 72 hours to invite the public, enabling the entire council to attend. Mayor Pro Tem Hagan emphasized that the timeline was not met and expressed awareness.
Councilmember Strohman responded that he informed the City Manager and the City Attorney about the meeting
Mayor Pro Tem Hagan stated that his intention to seek consensus on the direction to be taken moving forward.
Mayor Bellinger asked Councilmember Strohman if the topic of discussion at the meeting in question would ever be brought before Council for consideration.
Councilmember Strohman stated that it would not.
Mayor Bellinger acknowledged that councilmembers often interact in public places like grocery stores and sports events. He emphasized the importance of defining what counts as an official meeting when creating council policy. He clarified that his focus was on whether meeting topics would come before the council for consideration. He highlighted that if matters discussed at any meeting were going to be presented to the council, he rejected the ideas about said meetings happening without proper public notice.
Mayor Pro Tem Hagan expressed his view that holding a meeting without proper notification poses a legal concern. He emphasized his concern for two main points: firstly, respecting city staff, the Mayor, and the public; and secondly, the potential legal complication when a private meeting involves a company the Council has taken a position on.
Councilman Strohman acknowledged the concern. He shared that when contacted by owner from Harmony, he inquired with the city manager and city attorney for their input, and stated they informed him that it was his choice. Councilmember Strohman also noted that he did not believe he was putting the council or himself at risk by meeting with him. Councilmember Strohman stated that at the meeting in question, Mr. Ubalde stated he had reached out to all five council members individually via e-mail and only Councilmember Strohman responded.
Mayor Pro Tem Hagan emphasized that since the council had taken a legal position against the company, it's essential to have clear guidelines for such situations in the future. He suggested that the city manager and city attorney be present during such meetings to avoid potential complications. Councilmember Strohman agreed, adding that he would have reconsidered the meeting if he knew it could pose legal risks to the City and Council.
Mayor Pro Tem Hagan voiced his desire for direction moving forward to prevent similar issues from arising.
He highlighted the need for transparency, especially when legal concerns might be involved, suggesting that the city attorney and city manager should be present during such meetings to ensure accurate records and prevent potential misrepresentations.
City Attorney Frank Splendorio chimed in to clarify legal points. He emphasized that while councilmembers should have the freedom to meet with constituents without restrictions, as it's essential for residents to be able to seek help from their elected officials. He suggested that on sensitive topics, the Council could adopt
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a "sunshine policy" to ensure transparency and stated this might involve having the city manager, staff, or a report-back from the councilmembers) to the entire council for discussions related to those topics. But he also clarified that it is not a brown act violation, as has been implied at the meeting, to merely inform other councilmembers of the attendance of a meeting as nothing would have prevented the others about knowing about this meeting. He also stated he answered the questions he was asked and stands by his legal advice.
Mayor Pro Tem Hagan added that he personally prefers having the city attorney or the city manager present at any meeting to ensure complete transparency. He acknowledged that while not every potentially shady act can be eliminated, having measures in place would help maintain trust and transparency in council activities.
Councilmember Engle addressed the Mayor's question about whether the meeting's topic would be brought before with the council. He confirmed that the representatives from the City present at the meeting did provide direction, advising those interested in AB 1482 to connect with city staff for information.
Councilmember Engle clarified that his concern isn't about meetings for community betterment but rather the dissemination of falsehoods and fear-mongering among vulnerable community members. He expressed dissatisfaction with these tactics being employed to advance personal agendas.
Further discussion ensued. Mayor Bellinger opened up for public comment or question.
Danny Fox emphasized the need to support seniors at Almond Grove who are facing intimidation and rising rents. He expressed concern for their vulnerability and urged action to protect them.
Judy Lopez pointed out that fear and problems arise from landlords and owners, not the Council. She criticized the Council for division and stressed that they were elected to serve the community's interests.
She mentioned a dispute with a member of "Escalon Strong," but clarified that it was resolved. She highlighted the fear of retaliation from Harmony, the owners of Almond Grove, and described their deteriorating living conditions. She credited Councilman Strohman for offering assistance. She called for unity among Council members and urged them to address pressing issues like the budget, police department, infrastructure, and water plant, stressing the need to prioritize the community's well-being over personal disagreements.
Krista Adametz shared her concerns about the treatment of seniors, mentioning financial abuse that many face. She expressed frustration about the conflicts within the City Council and how it affects their work. She emphasized worrying about her patients and the seniors in Escalon who are impacted by such issues across the state. She urged Council to communicate better and unite for the sake of helping seniors. She advised engaging with experts like Ann Shaddix or Councilmember Strohman to better understand the situation. She stated that the goal is to come together as a unified front to serve the seniors of Escalon effectively and provide them with a sense of security.
Sherri Hill shared that while some may interpret the discussions differently, she didn't see it as a personal attack. She noted that there's real fear among seniors due to eviction notices and harassment from Harmony.
She expressed concerns about dealing with Harmony privately, recommending legal representation in such situations. She emphasized that the Almond Grove issue is deep and community-related. She highlighted the seniors' immediate needs and the challenges they're facing, especially with future bills. She stressed the importance of considering the impact of decisions on the city and its residents. She urged careful consideration before making moves that could have lasting effects on the community and its seniors.
Elsa Sandoval, the community liaison for Escalon Strong stated she has been actively involved with issues related to Harmony and Almond Grove and that her concern isn't about the meeting itself, but about the potential impacts on the community.
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She emphasized that Harmony's tactics involve taking over mobile home parks and pushing out seniors and that Harmony Inc.'s financial partnership with Nick Ubaldi highlights their interests in these actions. She pointed out that Harmony's practices have hurt communities in the past. Almond Grove is particularly vulnerable. She mentioned state regulations that allow parks to be re-designated if senior numbers drop, leading to increased rents.
Elsa Sandoval noted that Councilman Strohman's meeting with Nick Ubalde drew attention to Escalon Strong, jeopardizing their efforts to protect seniors. After the meeting, Harmony's property manager started videotaping units for code violations, putting Escalon Strong on the hook for potential legal costs.
She stressed the importance of a united community and representation at meetings like these, especially when the Council will eventually have to address the issues. She highlighted the need for a comprehensive discussion involving all councilmembers.
Elsa acknowledged Councilmember Engle's frustration about not being fully informed and called for a united approach as the community faces these challenges.
No other comments were offered. Council adjourned into Closed Session at 9:40 PM.
CLOSED SESSION
10. Conference with Labor Negotiators, Cal Gov't. Code §54957.6 Agency designated representative: Dominique Romo, City Manager Employee Organization: Escalon Police Officers Association (EPOA) Council returned from Closed Session at 9:40 PM. All Councilmembers were present for the duration of the meeting. No reportable action was taken.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, Mayor Bellinger adjourned the meeting at approximately 10:00 P.M.
Respectfully Submitted,
fetteral
Ivett/Arevalo, Deputy City Clerk