ASCALON MINUTES
CALIFORNIA CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ESCALON
MEETING OF OCTOBER 21, 2024
TO CENTRA
City Council Chambers, 2060 McHenry Avenue -7:00 P.M.
INCORPORATED MARCH 12, 1957
Beginning Resolution No. 45-24
Beginning Ordinance No. 597
Beginning Minute Order No. 54-24
PRESENT: Mayor David Bellinger
Mayor Pro Tem Andrew Thomas Hagan
Councilmember Jeremy Engle
Councilmember Malinda Walker
Councilmember Shawn Strohman
STAFF PRESENT: Jaylen French, City Manager
Celinda Bickner, Finance Director/HR Administrator (FDHRA) Robert Hardgraves, Chief of Police
luston Collins, Public Works Superintendent/Manager (PWSM Frank Splendorio, City Attorney
PRESENTATIONS
1. Certificate of Recognition - Officer Baldonado for His Heroic Efforts Mayor Bellinger postponed the recognition to the following meeting, November 4, 2024.
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.
2. Approve the Minutes from the Meeting of October 7, 2024
3. Approve the Register of Demands for October 21, 2024 in the amount of $728,052.29.
4. Consider Authorizing the City Manager to Execute an Agreement with San Joaquin Council of Governments for Senate Bill 125 Funding
Mayor Bellinger introduced the consent calendar, which includes routine items acted upon by a single action.
MOTION - It is moved/seconded by HAGAN/WALKER that items 2, 3, and 4 of the consent calendar be approved as presented. Motion carried (5-0) MINUTE ORDER 54-24
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Escalon City Council
October 21, 2024
STAFF COMMUNICATIONS & UPDATES
5. September Stati Updates
a. Treasurer's Report for August
b. Police Department Report for August
c. Animal Control Report for August
d. Recreation Department Report for August
e. Development Services Report for August
f. Public Works Report for August
g. Building Department Report for August
h. Water Department Report for August
i. Waste Water Treatment Plant Report for August
j. City Manager's Report (verbal)
FDHRA Celinda Bickner discussed the Treasurer's Report.
Escalon resident, Gabriella Vargas inquired about a potential discrepancy in dates, to which FDHRA Celinda Bickner clarified the fiscal year dates and the ongoing audit process.
Chief of Police, Robert Hardgraves provided an update on the hiring process for a new officer indicating that the City had extended an offer to a candidate as well as two reserve positions.
PWSM Juston Collins reported on various public works projects, including the Valdepena waterline and street rehabilitation project, which is going well and ahead of schedule. He also mentioned the installation of enhanced crosswalk lighting at the Escalon-Bellota crossing.
City Manager French discussed the timing and implementation of the proposed Constitution training for staff and the council, aiming for a rollout by the end of the year or early next year.
Councilmember Walker commented that she appreciated the general fund reports in the agenda packet, finding it helpful for quick reference.
MATTERS PRESENTED FROM THE AUDIENCE
The public may address the City Council on any item that is on the Agenda at the time the item is called. The public may also address the City Council on any item not on the Agenda that is within the subject matter of the City of Escalon. Each speaker is limited to a maximum of five (5) minutes. Unused time may not be yielded to another speaker. You may state your name and address for the record; however, it is not required. Due to state law, action will not be taken on an item that is not on the Agenda and except for brief responses, the Council is prohibited from discussing any item not on the agenda. If it requires action, it will be referred to staff and/or placed on a future Agenda. The determination of whether an item is within the subject matter of the City is a discretionary decision made by the Mayor.
Escalon resident, Peter Krumeich, verified that public comments would be allowed under administrative matters.
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Escalon City Council
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Escalon resident, Kurt Danziger, expressed appreciation for staff's efforts. He then raised concerns about the proposed Murphy Ranch project. He encouraged the Council to be proactive in their support of Measure P.
Escalon resident, Gabriella Vargas inquired about the new officer's salary and the possibility of installing flashing lights at the El Portal crosswalk to address speeding issues and pedestrian safety.
She also inquired about progress on the feral cat issues in the community.
Chief of Police Robert Hardgraves responded, indicating that animal control does not have a feral cat trapping program but can provide traps for residents.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
6. October Staff Updates Consider Adopting Resolution No. XX-24 Adopting the 2025 San Joaquin County Multi-Species Habitat Conservation Fee Schedule as Adjusted Pursuant to the Financial Analysis Model for the San Joaquin County Multi-Species Habitat Conservation and Open Space Plan
City Manager French explained that this fee, managed by the San Joaquin Council of Governments (SJCOG), is applied to development projects and is used to preserve open space and protect habitats.
The fees are reviewed annually; this year, they have decreased by 7.5% due to lower land costs. The fee fluctuates over time based on various factors, and the City handles the collection and coordination with SJCOG.
Mayor Bellinger opened the public hearing with no comments from the public.
MOTION - It is moved/seconded by HAGAN/WALKER to consider adopting Resolution No. 45- 24 adopting the 2025 San Joaquin County multi-species habitat conservation fee schedule as adjusted pursuant to the financial analysis model for the San Joaquin County multi-species habitat conservation and open space plan. Motion carried (5-0) MINUTE ORDER 55-24
7. Consider Adopting Resolution No. XX-24 Certifying the Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration (IS/MND) and Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (MMRP) for the City of Escalon Connection to Nick DeGroot Water Treatment Plant Project City Manager French provided an update on the surface water project, which began in the late 1990s and early 2000s through a partnership between several cities, including Escalon. While the City has secured an allocation of surface water, the conveyance system has not been constructed to transport the water from the treatment plant to Escalon. The council recently directed staff to apply for a federal grant to help fund the project, and the grant application has been submitted. The environmental document is ultimately needed to move the project forward and was a required provision of the Grant application. If successful with the Grant, the council will revisit the project to determine how to proceed.
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Escalon City Council
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Councilmember Engle inquired about the City's direct obligation to complete this project, and desired further information on well depths (i.e. the need for surface water) and potential alternative solutions City Manager French outlined the City's general obligation under new State law, the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA) is to manage groundwater sustainability along with other partners in the region, therefore, the City does not have a direct obligation to complete this project, but at some point may be required to address overdraft conditions. This project has been in consideration since the early 2000s and other options have been explored during that time.
Councilmember Engle acknowledged that the current item is focused on the environmental aspect needed for potential grant funding and is willing to support that part of the process. He clarified that until additional items are addressed, he cannot support something that may imply favoring the advancement of the overall project.
Escalon resident, Kurt Danziger suggested that the council members attend Groundwater Sustainability Agency meetings to better understand relevant issues. He also questioned the cost of the flow box, and the potential for relocating it to save money, as well as the permitting fees through SSJID.
Councilmember Strohman mentioned he spoke with SSJID regarding strict requirements for the placement of the flow meter, which must be located within a specific distance from the water treatment plant's outfall.
PWSM Juston Collins that the flow box must be located off SSJID's main line for access and if the flow box is up stream, past the main line, there becomes questions on who maintains the main line.
Escalon resident, Gabriella Vargas clarified the cost and logistics of connecting to the surface water system and asked how much money ratepayers have already contributed to the project and how much additional funding is required to complete the project.
City Manager French explained the City is expected to collect $10 million by the end of the rate increase period, 10 years, as well as the received and grants that have been awarded or are being reviewed as well as gap financing for the remainder of the project. He further explained that the City has been awarded a $1.1 million grant, though the funds have not yet been received. The grant was awarded through Congressman Josh Harder's office.
Councilmember Engle asked for clarification on how much money has been contributed to the project account to date.
City Manager French estimated that the project account has been funded between $6 to $8 million thus far. FDHRA Celinda Bickner further explained that the current monthly and treasurer reports contain the relevant financial details, including several lines that, when combined, reflect the total funding.
Escalon resident, Zach Hogan asked for clarification regarding how an environmental study could be conducted without a finalized plan or scope for components like boxes and flow meters.
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Escalon City Council
October 21, 2024
City Manager French responded that the project design is over 60% complete, meaning it is far enough along to perform the environmental study, even though it isn't finalized.
Councilmember Strohman emphasized that the project is driven by the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act of 2014.
MOTION - It is moved/seconded by HAGAN/BELLINGER to consider adopting resolution No. 46-24 certifying the initial study/mitigated negative declaration (IS/MND) and mitigation monitoring and reporting program (MMRP) for the City of Escalon connection to Nick DeGroot Water Treatment Plant Project. Motion carried (5-0) MINUTE ORDER 56-24
ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
8. Identify a Program Proposal for the San Joaquin County District Attorney's Asset Forfeiture Grant per the Agenda Request Item by Councilmember Strohman, supported by Mayor Pro Tem Hagan, and Authorize the City Manager to submit the Application City Manager French presented the proposal for the San Joaquin County District Attorney's asset forfeiture grant, focusing on youth engagement programs. He mentioned staf carried out Council direction to survey the students in the District to determine how the funds may best be used and received 406 responses.
Councilmember Engle asked whether Escalon could use 100% of the pass-through funds or if organizations would take a percentage of the funds for administrative costs or other fees required to run the program.
City Manager French stated that the program development and coordination with providers is not to the point yet to discuss administrative costs and that the item before the Council is to indicate where the monies should be allocated. Staff would then work with the providers on the details, including any administrative costs.
Mayor Pro Tem Hagan asked if he could require that the funds go directly to their intended purpose without being used for other costs.
Councilmember Engle explained that with pass-through grants, it's typical for a small percentage of the funds to be used for administrative costs, as the organizations still have expenses to cover.
Councilmember Strohman asked for clarification on oversight and disbursing grant funds to selected organization.
City Manager French suggested entering into a formal agreement and implementing a system for monitoring progress, such as requiring quarterly, monthly, or post-event reports to ensure the organization is meeting the terms of the agreement.
Escalon resident, Gabriella Vargas inquired if surveying the students was the prudent move or if broader community input would have been better.
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Escalon City Council
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City Manager French clarified that a survey was conducted through the school district involving 400 students, including elementary students. The input from students was considered, but was balanced with requirements of the grant, as well as council and staff input.
Ms. Vargas expressed concerns about the fairness of funding allocation for specific programs, specifically mentioning the Boys and Girls Club and the Healthy Room project.
City Manager French noted that all recognize that these program funds cannot reach every student or group but emphasized that it is a path to provide healthy interactions for the youth of the community.
He expressed a commitment to seeking additional funding to expand programs and include more groups in the future.
Mayor Pro Tem Hagan highlighted that the program and its questions were developed with significant input from the school district.
Ms. Varga suggested reconsidering the allocation of funds to possibly create programs that could include children who don't fit into the current categories being served.
Mayor Bellinger explained that while it is difficult to benefit every child with the available funds, the grant has specific requirements which must be met, which the proposal does.
Mayor Pro Tem Hagan suggested that finding another grant could help address the needs of children not benefiting from the current program.
Councilmember Strohman suggested working with the school district and the Boys and Girls Club to open youth excursions and after-school activities to the entire community, not just members.
Councilmember Walker suggested directing grants toward smaller, local programs who have difficulty securing funding.
Councilmember Strohman also suggested opening the program to any organization in Escalon that works with youth.
City Manager French supported the ongoing discussion while indicating that the grant is looking to fund established and programs to ensure funds are used effectively.
Councilmember Strohman asked for clarification on how staff would manage the process of targeting potential programs.
Councilmember Strohman suggested that each council member take responsibility for championing a specific program through the process.
Mayor Pro Tem Hagan doubted whether they had the time to manage a new program in addition to their current commitments.
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Escalon City Counci
October 21, 2024
Mayor Bellinger sees opportunities for the Youth Center and Escalon Library to expand beyond after- school activities, suggesting these programs should be left to experts rather than having council members champion them directly.
The councilmembers generally agree on reallocating funds by reducing the amount for youth excursions and increasing funding for after-school activities.
Councilmember Engle urged the council to avoid prolonged debate and act quickly to allocate the funds so children can benefit from the programs.
Councilmember Walker supported splitting the funds but sought clarification on whether each entity must use the allocated amounts exclusively for the specified purposes.
City Manager French explained that the district attorney will review the application and likely require clarity on how funds will be used, but that we could outline in the Grant application to provide some flexibility in their use, based on the recommendations of the chosen providers.
Councilmember Walker proposed bundling the funds to allow flexibility across different activities and asked if this approach was feasible.
City Manager French they would contact the Youth Center to assess their programs. If their offerings align with the council's direction, they can include this information in the application to ensure consistency with council goals.
MOTION - It is moved/seconded by WALKER/HAGAN to identify a program proposal for the San Joaquin County District Attorney's asset forfeiture grant. Motion carried (5-0) MINUTE ORDER 57-24
9. Consider the Recreation Commission's Recommendation on a Proposed Approach for the Escalon Baseball/Softball Recreation Program per the Agenda Request Item by Mayor Pro Tem Hagan and Councilmember Walker
City Manager French presented the recommendation on a new youth program proposal focused on restructuring Escalon's city-run youth baseball and softball program. This proposal, initiated by Mayor Pro Tem Hagan and Councilmember Walker, aims to bolster the program with the help of consultant Todd Davis, who would provide coaching and skills clinics as well as resources for volunteer coaches and children.
Mayor Bellinger sought clarification on whether the proposed restructured youth baseball and softball program will remain inclusive, ensuring that no child is turned away based on skill level.
Todd Davis confirmed that, currently, every child who signs up is placed on a team, regardless of ability. The only restriction would be the capacity of available fields in Escalon, which could limit the number of participants if registrations exceed field resources.
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Escalon City Council
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Councilmember Walker asked if the board would determine the proposed cost of the program based on their decisions regarding factors like the type of uniforms and umpires chosen.
Todd Davis explained that the current cost for umpires and uniforms varies depending on the quality and items provided. The final program cost will depend on the number of teams and players, uniform quality, and whether professional or student umpires are used.
Mayor Bellinger asked if the City currently subsidizes the baseball and softball programs and is seeking a general estimate or "ballpark" figure for how much the City contributes. ias, nager resch explained thadh end dial as Will progran rest a to alerted, the city subsidized approximately $25,000.
Mayor Bellinger expressed concerns about proceeding with a new board-led baseball program without citizens knowing the potential costs for their children to participate.
Todd Davis advocated for continued City involvement in overseeing the new baseball program to manage costs effectively, a priority from the outset.
Councilmember Strohman asked Mr. Davis and staff if they followed through on a plan mentioned at the community meeting to send a survey via Blue Sombrero regarding the potential cost increase that Mayor Bellinger noted.
City Manager French clarified that the group decided not to initiate a survey so as not to unnecessarily delay the process; however, staff used the system to inform everyone about the upcoming recreation meetings.
Mayor Pro Tem Hagan noted that scholarships and financial support from Escalon Strong are available for families needing assistance with program costs.
Todd Davis clarified that, except for Westport and Waterford (which lack lights), all other schools schedule games at 5:30 PM for younger players, addressing council concerns about younger children playing late. Only older age groups (13-14) play at 7:30 PM on fields with lights.
Mayor Bellinger asked about the league's start and end dates and the estimated timing of the first game.
Todd Davis stated the league season starts in March and ends before Memorial Day in May.
Todd Davis addressed concerns about the softball program, noting that Elizabeth Hill, a coach for girls' softball at Modesto Christian and owner of the Hall of Fame Academy, will handle the girls' softball training.
Councilmember Strohman asks if the selection process would follow the same format as other commissions.
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Escalon City Council
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Mayor Pro Tem Hagan suggested that the council would set up the first board, with parents potentially voting in future members.
Councilmember Strohman asked about the commitment from Escalon High.
Mayor Pro Tem Hagan mentioned that the high school boys and girls teams will help with clinics and foster community bonds.
Todd Davis confirmed that the rec program will continue on Saturday mornings for younger children.
Escalon resident, Peter Krumeich raised concerns about the cost increase and travel distance for rec programs.
Escalon resident, Gabriella Vargas wondered if there was a San Joaquin County league, and discussed the importance of keeping the rec program developmental for younger kids.
Escalon resident, Dan Bauer suggested that the rec program focus on skills development for younger children and emphasized the need for community cohesion and the importance of having a rec program. He further expressed concerns about the rushed timeline and the potential impact on families.
Escalon resident, Kayla Jefferson appreciates the ideas to improve the program, but outlined potential concerns with the proposed program, including coaches not being able to coach multiple teams due to the travel, as well as the cost increase. Any cost increase should go toward skills development. She then suggested a pilot year to build the program and provide clinics for coaches and skills clinics.
Escalon resident, Casey Silva appreciates the ideas for improving the program and the community conversation. The need to support coaches is very important as this is an annual challenge of the program. She urged the community to not delay the decision making process.
Escalon resident, Matt Showalter inquired about details of the proposal including schedule and cost, which were answered.
Escalon resident, Kayla Swanson was supportive of the proposal as the lack of competition in the league forces kids to seek other alternative playing options.
Escalon resident, Zach Hogan was supportive of the idea and acknowledged there may be some challenges associated with the change, but that those are normal. He also indicated he is aware of many in the community that would support programs like this financially if needed Mayor Bellinger asked Todd Davis if he could be successful with the tight timeline, to which Mr.
Davis indicated he thought he could.
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Escalon City Council
October 21, 2024
Councilmember Walker acknowledged that the planning had been ongoing since the spring of the previous year, with significant community outreach and engagement and noted that these meetings have helped refine the program.
Councilmember Stroman asked the City Attorney if issuing a Request for Proposals (RFP) is necessary for the baseball and softball programs.
City Attorney clarified that there is no legal requirement to issue an RFP in this case, as the procurement policy and state law mandate it only for specific contracts, such as public works projects.
Councilmember Stroman appreciated the efforts to improve the program but noted concern about the rushed timeline to meet the November-December deadline. He suggested establishing a board in the 2024-2025 season to set league rules, generate community interest, and decide to join the county league.
Mayor Pro Tem Hagan was open to a gradual implementation.
Councilmember Walker highlighted the need to continue working with Todd Davis for skills clinics.
Past efforts over at least four years, both on the council and Recreation Commission, have struggled to address ongoing issues.
Councilmember Strohman suggested joining the county league under City management for one year without forming a board immediately. This would allow the community to experience the league and provide feedback.
Todd Davis proposed that if the City joins the county league without forming a board, they could simplify costs by only paying him to run clinics and training camps. They would also act as liaisons, attending league meetings to reduce the City's involvement.
Councilmember Walker supported keeping City subsidies for at least the first year and wished to retain sponsorship and advertising responsibilities within the program rather than placing this burden on coaches. While she acknowledged that other leagues may involve parents more directly, she would prefer a gradual approach without initially adding too many responsibilities to parents. She also prefers retaining professional umpire services, noting that high school umpires can sometimes struggle with specific rules, particularly in softball, leading to inconsistencies and game challenges.
Todd Davis stressed the importance of involving parents and prospective coaches in the kids' clinics, encouraging them to assist and observe, which can introduce new coaching techniques.
Councilmember Walker suggested hiring Todd Davis as an administrator while remaining in the current league.
Councilmember Strohman recommended that Mr. Davis provide a detailed list of charges for each service he offers. This list would be presented to the council, allowing them to collaboratively decide which services to request from Todd. Thus, a clear plan for the 2024-2025 program would be created.
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Mayor Pro Tem Hagan motioned to postpone the decision until the next council meeting on November 4th. This delay would allow time to finalize pricing updates and prepare for sign-ups while meeting the mid-November timeline.
Councilmember Walker wanted to establish an external advisory board but not by the November deadline. Instead, the aim would be to form the board during the season as part of the ongoing process.
Unless anyone objected, City Attorney Frank Splendorio suggested moving forward based on the general consensus reached during the discussion.
Mayor Pro Tem Hagan withdrew his motion and the council moved to the next item.
10. Consider Designating Field B of Hogan-Ennis Park as the Greg Largent Field per the Agenda Request Item by Mayor Pro Tem Hagan, supported by Councilmember Engle.
Mayor Pro Tem Hagan shared that the Hogan family agrees to name a field after the late Greg Largent, a significant figure in the local baseball and softball community. The intent is to honor his legacy meaningfully.
Councilmember Walker expressed admiration for Mr. Largent, highlighting his impact on the high school baseball field and the community.
Mayor Pro Tem supports the idea of renaming the field after Mr. Largent.
Escalon resident, Danny Fox suggested including the number nine in the sign or wording to honor Greg's jersey number.
MOTION - It is moved/seconded by HAGAN/BELLINGER to consider designating Field B of Hogan-Ennis Park as the Greg Largent Field. Motion carried (5-0) MINUTE ORDER 58-24
COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS
Councilmember Strohman thanked community members for feedback on the baseball and softball programs. He also briefly addressed Measure P.
City Attorney Frank Splendorio clarified that, by state law, the council is prohibited from advocating for or against a measure during council meetings. He directed the public to the City's website, where educational and informational materials on the measure are available.
Councilmember Walker emphasized the importance of community members voting based on their opinions.
CLOSED SESSION - None
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Escalon City Council
October 21, 2024
ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Bellinger adjourned the meeting at 10:08 pm.
Respectfully Submitted,
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