ESCALON MINUTES
CALIFORNIA CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ESCALON
MEETING OF MARCH 17, 2025
STEPPING STO
I CALMORAL CALIFOR City Council Chambers, 2060 McHenry Avenue -7:00 P.M.
INCORPORATED MARCH 12, 1951
Beginning Resolution No. 06-25
Beginning Ordinance No. 600
Beginning Minute Order No. 23-25
PRESENT: Mayor Andrew Hagan
Mayor Pro Tem Malinda Walker
Councilmember Jeremy Engle
Councilmember Shawn Strohman
Councilmember Jeff Kay
STAFF PRESENT: Jaylen French, City Manager (CM)
Celinda Bickner, Finance Director/HR Administrator (FDHRA Juston Collins, Public Works Superintendent (PWS
Robert Hardgraves, Chief of Police
Frank Splendorio, City Attorney
Michele Bates, Deputy City Clerk
PRESENTATION
1. Conduct Interviews of Planning Commission Applicants, and if Council Agrees, Make an Appointment for the One (1) Vacant Seat on the Planning Commission CM French presented the staff report regarding the one (1) vacant seat on the Planning Commission set to expire in June of 2028.
Four individuals submitted applications for the Commission seat. Councilmembers each asked the same question of all applicants in the order of their applications in the agenda packet. Mayor Hagan brought forward the first applicant, Mrs. Jenny Thompson. Mayor Hagan asked about her vision for the direction of the Planning Commission. Mrs. Thompson, a longtime Escalon resident, expressed concern about the city's stagnation and emphasized her desire for controlled growth, particularly in the commercial sector. She views her role as ensuring the commission approves quality projects that enhance the quality of life for Escalon residents.
Mayor Pro Tem Walker asked Mrs. Thompson to identify examples where past planning decisions in Escalon have worked well or not. Mrs. Thompson pointed out that the plaza area near Highway 120 has not worked well due to poor planning, citing issues with access, business retention, and the age of the building.
She believes it could have been better if planned differently. However, she noted that the neighborhood behind City Hall was well-planned, with thoughtfully designed narrow streets that slow traffic and a beautiful park, which contributed to the neighborhood's success.
Councilmember Engle asked Mrs. Thompson how she would handle political pressure in decision-making.
Mrs. Thompson responded confidently, stating that she is a strong individual with firm opinions. As a lifelong resident, she understands the town's needs and desires. She emphasized that political pressure would not sway her decisions, citing her past experience as a staff member at Escalon City Hall where she was not influenced by such pressure. She assured the Council that this would remain the case if she were selected as a planning commissioner.
Councilmember Strohman asked Mrs. Thompson where she sees Escalon in the next 5 and 10 years. Mrs.
Thompson replied that she doesn't expect much change in the next five years but hopes for small, steady progress. In the next 10 years, she envisions a stronger focus on the city's needs, with commercial growth along both sides of Highway 120 and some residential growth to meet demand.
Councilmember Kay asked Mrs. Thompson what she believes the focus of the Planning Commission should be. Mrs. Thompson responded that the focus should be on commercial development to help the city thrive.
She emphasized the need to strengthen the city's tax base by capturing revenue from traffic passing through, particularly along Highway 120. She hopes the primary focus will be on commercial growth in that area.
Mayor Hagan called up the next candidate, Zachary Menosides who did not attend the interview.
Mayor Hagan then brought forward Mr. Douglas Simms to the podium.. Mr. Simms, who has lived in Escalon for 25 years, shared that he feels Escalon is heading in the right direction by maintaining its small- town character. He emphasized the importance of capitalizing on this, suggesting more businesses downtown stay open later and offering a wider variety of options, such as more restaurants rather than just taco trucks. He mentioned that there is nothing significant he would change, as he likes the town's slow growth, which aligns with the residents' desires.
Mayor Pro Tem Walker questioned Mr. Simms and he responded that having three dollar stores in town feels redundant. He also pointed to a development in his neighborhood, where the 1429 Restaurant is now, describing it as poorly executed, particularly the decision to build a three-story building next to a residential area. He emphasized the importance of buffering residential areas from commercial developments. For newer projects, he praised the design of City Hall and the businesses along McHenry Avenue. He also mentioned that while there haven't been many large projects, he would like to see more in the future.
Councilmember Engle questioned Mr. Simms and he responded that during his 30-year career as a building inspector, including his time as the acting Deputy Building Official for the State of California, he faced significant political pressure and learned how to navigate such situations. He expressed confidence that his experience and knowledge would be valuable to the Planning Commission in handling these pressures effectively.
Councilmember Strohman asked an additional question. He referenced Mr. Simms' comment about having too many dollar stores in town and asked how he would handle a situation where a project for another dollar store came through, meeting all planning and zoning requirements. Mr. Simms responded that, as a Planning Commissioner, he would have to approve it if it met the necessary criteria. He emphasized that it's important to follow the rules and not change them arbitrarily.
Councilmember Strohman asked his previous question and Mr. Simms responded that in 5 years, he hopes the project on Highway 120 will be resolved and developed. In 10 years, he envisions more businesses along McHenry and a focus on attracting tourists traveling through Highway 120, creating places for them to stop, spend time, and contribute to the local economy.
Councilmember Kay asked his question and Mr. Simms emphasized the importance of listening to residents, noting that there is a vocal group in town with a clear vision for the city's growth. He mentioned that residents want to maintain a small-town feel while being mindful of the businesses and people moving into the city.
Mrs. Thompson returned to the podium to address the question of what she would do as a planning commissioner if an additional dollar store came to town and met all the requirements. She agreed with Mr.
Simms, stating that if the project meets all the requirements and is of good quality, she would not see a reason to reject it, as doing so could open the city to liability. However, she acknowledged there might be some flexibility in which the project could be denied, citing concerns like safety and aesthetics. In general, if the project meets the necessary requirements and is of high quality, she would approve it.
Mayor Hagan brought forward the next applicant, Nick Obligacion, and asked his question. Mr. Obligacion responded that his focus would be on sustainable growth, ensuring that any development brought to town is supported by the existing infrastructure.
Mayor Pro Tem Walker asked her question. Mr. Obligacion, who has lived in Escalon for 34 years and raised his family there, responded that he did not consider the Weldway project a high priority, believing that the intersection at Brennan and Highway 120 should have been developed first. He expressed appreciation for the development of McHenry, particularly the City offices and businesses. Looking ahead, he would like to see more businesses on the east side of town and the development of the Liberty Business Park. In the next 5-10 years, he believes the Liberty Business Park can be successfully developed if planned appropriately.
Councilmember Engle asked his question and Mr. Obligacion responded that, with 30 years of experience in public service, including as a retired police chief in a neighboring city, he has frequently dealt with political pressure. He emphasized that he makes decisions based on facts and the information presented, and that political pressure tends to fade away when decisions are grounded in transparency and integrity.
He added that he is always upfront and transparent in his approach.
Councilmember Strohman asked his question and Mr. Obligacion responded that Escalon has always had a small-town charm, and he does not want to see it grow too large. He emphasized that sustainability is key to the city's planning. He expressed concern about the city struggling if it doesn't have the tax base to support growth. In 10 years, he envisions small, minimal growth, similar to the past 30 years, with careful consideration of what residents want.
Councilmember Strohman asked his additional question. Mr. Obligacion responded that decisions should be based on the facts presented. He acknowledged that while not everyone would be pleased with every decision, the goal is to serve the majority. If the project met all the requirements, he would approve it.
Councilmember Kay asked his question and Mr. Obligacion responded that the city should focus on mixed growth, incorporating both commercial and residential development. He emphasized the importance of balancing what residents want with what the city can accommodate, ensuring that commercial growth aligns with residential growth.
Mayor Hagan thanked everyone for their time and then opened the item up to public comment. There were no comments from the audience.
Mayor Pro Tem Walker mentioned that she needed a little time to think things over but commented that, she was very pleased with the quality of the applicants.
Councilmember Strohman commented that he believes ail three candidates are more than qualified to be on the Planning Commission, each bringing valuable perspectives. He expressed appreciation for the applicants taking the time to apply and strongly encouraged them to reapply if they were not nominated as they all possess great skill sets needed for a strong planning commission. Mayor Hagan agreed with this statement.
Councilmember Engle nominated Jenny Thompson. Mayor Hagan seconded it. Councilmember Strohman nominated Nick Obligacion. Mayor Pro Tem Walked seconded the nomination.
A vote was called for the two nominations. First vote was called for Mrs. Thompson. The result of the vote would follow the nominations process.
Ayes: Mayor Hagan, Councilmembers Engle and Kay
Nays: Mayor Pro Tem Walker
Abstain: Councilmember Strohman
With the three votes, Mrs. Thompson was nominated to the vacant seat on the Planning Commission. Mayor Hagan thanked the other two applicants and strongly encouraged them to apply again. Councilmember Kay commented that it was a difficult decision. He strongly recommended that they reapply for any future vacant seats.
Councilmember Strohman commented to the applicants that later on the agenda, there would be a discussion about an Economic Development Committee and encouraged them to consider applying for that position.
He then congratulated Mrs. Thompson on her appointment to the Planning Commission.
CONSENT CALENDAR
2. Approve Minutes from the Meeting of March 3, 2025.
Approve the Special Minutes from the Joint Planning Commission and City Council Meeting of March 3, 2025
4. Approve Register of Demands for the Month of February and March 2025 in the Amount of $379,972.05
Approve Resolution XX-25, Authorizing Execution of A Lease Purchase Agreement and Delivery of a Vacuum Truck, and Approving Related Documents and Actions.
6. Consider Authorizing the City Manager to Execute a Memorandum of Understanding (COU) between the City of Escalon and San Joaquin County for Inspection Services Related to the City's Edible Food Recovery Program
Item number two (2) was pulled from the consent calendar per Councilmember Strohman's request. The motion was then amended to pull Item number 6 as well.
MOTION - m/s STROHMAN/ENGLE to Approve the Consent Calendar with the Exception of Items Two (2) and Six (6). Motion carried 5-0. MINUTE ORDER 15-25 Councilmember Strohman requested an amendment to comments he made regarding the notification of public hearings. He clarified the minutes suggest that only the notification for LLD public hearings should be enhanced, but that his intent was for all public hearings. He proposed utilizing the website, social media, and the billboard for broader outreach. He requested that this modification be made to the minutes.
MOTION - m/s STROHMAN/ENGLE to Approve Item Number Two (2) Meeting Minutes as Amended.
Motion carried 5-0. MINUTE ORDER 16-25.
Resident Sherry Hill sought clarification on the Edible Food Recovery Program, asking whether the roposed agreement with the County would apply only to food producing uses, or if it also included too ecovery uses such as Escalon Strong and CARE. CM French responded that the program would onl include new inspections for food-producing businesses.
Mayor Pro Tem Walker inquired whether this was a yearly contract with the County or something new.
CM French noted that this is a new state law that the City is implementing.
Resident Gary Haskin noted that while the City will not be charging any fees, if the County would be charging a fee to individual businesses. He expressed concern that this might be seen as placing an additional burden on local businesses, particularly grocery stores that operate with very small profit margins. CM French acknowledged the concern, and shared that the County has indicated they could charge a fee later, but at this time, they do not plan to do so.
Councilmember Strohman commented on Mr. Haskin's point, asking if the City is putting local food producers at risk by relying on the County to ensure compliance with the law and then potentially handing the businesses a bill for that service.
Mayor Hagan asked if there could be an amendment to the resolution stating that the City approves the program as long as no fee is charged. Councilmember Kay recommended that any fee structure added should be brought before the Council for debate first. CM French agreed, suggesting that the best approach would be to indicate that any new provisions not initially established would be brought back before the City Council. In response to Mayor Pro Tem Walker's earlier question, CM French clarified that the renewal of the agreement is automatic, and the Council would not have to revisit it annually unless they choose to. He also suggested that if the terms and conditions change, it could be brought back to the Council for review.
MOTION - m/s Strohman/Kay to Approve Item Number Six (6) with the Caveat that if the County Chooses to Implement a Fee Structure, it will be Brought Back to Council for Review and Approval.
Motion carried 5-0. MINUTE ORDER 17-25
STAFF COMMUNICATIONS & UPDATES
7. February-March Updates
a. Treasurer's Report for February
b. Police Department for February
c. Animal Control Report for February
d. Recreation Department Report for February
e. Development Services Report for February
f. Public Works Report for February
g. Building Department for February
h. Water Department Report for January and February
i. City Manager's Report (Verbal)
FDHRA Bickner reported that staff is preparing for the third quarter of the budget cycle, which will quickly lead to the year-end. The current focus is on the 2024 audit, which she hopes to complete by the first week of April. Following that, she will begin preparations for the new budget and upcoming budget meetings. Mayor Hagan commented that he appreciates all her efforts, which do not go unnoticed.
Chief Hardgraves reported that Officer Geck completed his post-motor course, and Officer Jumaoas finished his FTO (Field Training Officer) training and is currently training Officer Gunter. In February, Officer Palomino led the department with sixteen (16) arrests, while Officer DiGiulio led in citations with 37, closely followed by Officer Reimann with 36 citations.
PWS Collins provided an update on the Dent Sidewalk project, noting that despite a few rainy days, the crew is still on schedule. Last week, all the concrete work was completed, and that all remaining pavement will be installed next week, followed by finalizing the landscaping. He hopes the project will be completed in the next 2-3 weeks.
PWS Collins also gave a shout-out to his Public Works crew for their hard work during this rainy season, especially in preparing the baseball and softball fields. The crews were out at 6:00 a.m. on Saturday working to get the fields ready, but the rain was too much to hold all games. He wanted to acknowledge and thank the crew for their dedication.
Additionally, PWS Collins informed that he made a tentative offer to a potential new employee, Gavin Brown for the Maintenance Worker I position. Gavin is currently going through the background process and is expected to start in April.
Councilmember Engle questioned PWS Collins about the internet at the Corp Yard. PWS Collins responded that they upgraded speeds from 15 to 100, which has made Public Works' administrative operations much easier.
Mayor Hagan commented that he had noticed some weeds popping up around town and asked if there was a way to get ahead of the issue. PWS Collins responded that he would take care of the matter.
CM French noted that on March 12th, the City celebrated its 68th anniversary of incorporation. He mentioned the switch to Ayera and the improved internet speeds at the corporate yard, highlighting that working with Ayera has been a positive experience.
Additionally, CM French shared that the City has opened recruitment for the Development and Community Services Manager position, with the application deadline set for April 10th. He also noted that staff received confirmation via email from all Planning Commission applicants that they would be attending.
Councilmember Kay inquired whether the library was included in the deal made with Ayera for internet service. PWS Collins responded that the City has been working with Ayera for the library's internet service for a number of years, so that arrangement is ongoing. He mentioned that the goal was to get the current process underway and then reach out to Ayera to see if it is possible to add the library's internet service to the current contract.
Mayor Pro Tem Walker asked if all the towers have been installed to cover residential customers who were not previously covered by Ayera and whether the City is now fully covered for those wanting to access internet service. CM French responded that one tower at the wastewater treatment plant is outstanding. While Ayera may not fully cover the entire city, they have covered as much as possible under the current agreement.
Councilmember Strohman mentioned the recent storms and asked PWS Collins how residents should address flooding issues if they notice a drain inlet (DI) starting to cause flooding. PWS Collins responded that residents can call the Public Works phone number available on the city's website. The issue would be logged into the maintenance system, which notities the Public Works crew of any problems. It atter hours, the city's non-emergency dispatch will also receive these messages and relay them immediately to Public Works. Councilmember Strohman requested that the website be updated with information for residents, providing guidance on what to do if their street is flooded, including contact details for non- emergency dispatch or Public Works. Staff agreed that these changes could be made.
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.
Resident Sherry Hill mentioned the Dent Sidewalk Project, noting that if additional funds become available, there are potholes on Sacramento Street, as well as gaps in the sidewalks that have caused some elderly people to trip. and expressed hope that this issue could be addressed at some point. PWS Collins responded that Public Works would look into the matter.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
8. Consider Adopting Resolution No. XX-25: (1) Adopting an Impact Fee Nexus Study for the Liberty Business Park Plan Area (the "Report") and (2) Adopting Development Impact Fees Applicable to New Development Occurring Within the Liberty Business Park Plan Area (the "Impact Fee") CM French presented the staff report for the Liberty Business Park Specific Plan Area and Impact Fee.
Mayor Hagan commented that he would like to table the matter. He explained that the Council is currently working on forming an economic development committee, and there are aspects of the plan/fee that he would like additional information. He emphasized the importance of ensuring the plan is thoroughly reviewed and well structured, as it has significant long-term implications for the community. When the plan does move forward, he wants to ensure that businesses stay in the area.
Mayor Hagan also noted that delaying the item should not prevent them from continuing to proceed/operate.
Mayor Hagan expressed hope for support from the Council in this approach.
Councilmember Strohman asked if staff could explain the difference between the plan area fee and Mr.
Yates' deferred utilities agreement. CM French explained that typically, when a new development is approved, there is a requirement to extend or connect to the city's infrastructure. However, the deferred utilities agreement allows for a delay in connecting to city services for up to five (5) years if no future development occurs, or two (2) years if another development moves forward, with a further possibility of a 180-day extension if the City chooses to extend the infrastructure. CM French added that if a plan area fee is adopted for the entire 178 acres, the City may need to revise the deferred utilities agreement, depending on the Council's decision during the process of adopting the plan area fee.
Councilmember Engle commented that he could support tabling the matter, but wanted to hear from the developer to help facilitate the discussion when the matter returns to the Council.
Mr. Matthew Weber, representative for Mr. Yates and Weldway, mentioned that he had sent a letter addressing some of the issues being raised,. Mr. Weber stated that the fee was calculated assuming the entire development, as designed in 2007, would be built in its entirety, which he believes is unrealistic.
Mr. Weber explained that if the plan were adopted tonight, Mr. Yates would pay a million dollars ($1,000,000) into a fund that may not be used for several years as it is undetermined if other development will proceed. He argued that the fee would charge $80,000 per acre to commercial property, making it unaffordable for anyone to build, as they would not only need to cover the construction costs but also pay the extra fee.
He pointed out that the City has infrastructure that may not be necessary for the entire project since the original 2007 plan is unlikely to be realized. Furthermore, he noted that the City has added over $2.5 million in infrastructure without clear justification of the need.
Councilmember Strohman asked Mr. Weber why City staff was not included in the email, but acknowledged receiving the letter himself. Mr. Weber explained that he thought the letter was sent to the City Clerk. Councilmember Strohman confirmed that it was only forwarded to the Councilmembers, not the City staff.
Mr. Weber clarified that he was out of state when the email went out and had someone in his office send it on his behalf. He apologized for the oversight and explained there was no intent to exclude anyone. The purpose of the email was to provide the Council with information to review so that a dialogue could take place and help answer any questions.
Councilmember Kay noted that the email contained a lot of information and it raised several important points. He mentioned that he preferred not to table the issue because it leaves Mr. Yates in limbo. However, he acknowledged that the information presented to the Council has brought up more questions that need to be addressed without much time to review as the letter was received on Friday.
Mayor Pro Tem Walker noted that the goal is to get infrastructure and utilities across the railroad lines, which will hopefully encourage and attract more businesses to the area. She acknowledged that it is an expensive endeavor, and coming up with the best plan is something that clearly needs to be discussed further. She desires not to discourage commercial development, which the fee appears to do.
Councilmember Strohman commented that the plan that passed in 2007 does not match the Liberty Business Park Development of 2025 and suggested the City consider an update to the Specific Plan taking into account the development of Weldway.
Public Hearing Opened at 8:18 p.m.
Attorney George Petrulakis who represents a landowner in the Liberty Business Park area felt the Council acknowledged many of the issues that he has seen. In 2007, there were aspirational desires to do business parks in San Joaquin, Stanislaus and Merced Counties. He really encouraged Council to read both the Downey Brown letter and the ALH report, which is superior in describing what has happened in the business park market and could provide some guidance to the City, stakeholders and landowners.
Public Hearing Closed at 8:21 p.m.
Councilmember Strohman welcomed Mr. Yates and Ms. Shatz to the podium, expressing appreciation for their attendance and the legal representation they brought to protect their investment. He emphasized that as neighbors; they should feel comfortable reaching out to any Councilmember with concerns. Strohman also mentioned that it raises concerns when legal representation is involved with town residents. Mr. Yates responded, clarifying that no one should be offended, as both sides have legal representation.
Councilmember Strohman expressed respect for their efforts and emphasized a desire to work together.
Mr. Yates proposed holding additional meetings to discuss the issue prior to approving.
MOTION - m/s STROHMAN/KAY to Table Adopting Resolution No. XX-25: (1) Adopting an Impact Fee Nexus Study for the Liberty Business Park Plan Area (the "Report") and (2) Adopting Development Impact Fees Applicable to New Development Occurring Within the Liberty Business Park Plan Area (the "Impact Fee") to a Later Date. Motion carried 5-0. MINUTE ORDER 18-25
ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
9. Consideration of an Economic Development Committee Creation CM French presented the staff report to Council.
Councilmember Strohman sought input from the Council about adding two additional at-large members who are not business owners, as it would provide a broader community perspective alongside the business voices. Mayor Hagan agreed that suggestions could be valuable but emphasized the importance of ensuring candidates have some relevant background for the committee. Councilmember Strohman clarified that individuals should have business experience, noting that it is the Council's responsibility to vet the candidates.
Councilmember Engle sought clarification of expanding the committee to seven members. Councilmember Strohman outlined that the committee would include two councilmembers, three business owners, and two at-large members community members with business experience. When Councilmember Engle inquired if the at-large members would attend meetings or serve as alternates, Councilmember Strohman suggested that they would attend all meetings and have voting power.
Mayor Pro Tem Walker clarified that applicants are not required to be business owners, meaning the committee could potentially have five non-business owners. The Mayor expressed concerns that having too many members on the committee could lead to issues. Councilmember Strohman agreed but emphasized that there are individuals who are deeply invested in the community and want to be involved in the decision- making process.
Councilmember Engle pointed out that, as mentioned in the staff report, anyone could apply, and it would be up to the Council to decide whom the members would be. Mayor Pro Tem Walker expressed her support for a committee consisting of five members and two councilmembers. Councilmember Engle disagreed with seven members stating that if only five people apply, even if two are highly underqualified, they would have to accept them. Councilmember Kay agreed with Councilmember Engle that five should be the total number for the committee.
Public Hearing Opened at 8:31 p.m.
Resident Jenny Thompson suggested that Council specify how many of them can be a business owner but not live in Escalon. Escalon does have business owners that do not live in the area.
Resident Gary Hawkins cautioned that if the Council does decide to go with three business owners, he is afraid Council will receive advice to improve their own businesses. Leave the applicants open and make sure they are not heavily weighted on the business side An Escalon resident suggested making the application state they are "business experienced" That way it does not imply they own a business, but they have the background that could bring a different perspective to the table.
Public Hearing Closed at 8:36 p.m.
Councilmember Strohman asked if Mr. Simms and Mr. Obligacion would consider applying for the committee. Mr. Obligacion agreed to consider, emphasizing the importance of having a five-member committee with both business experience and public input on town development. Mr. Simms also agreed with Mr. Obligacion but expressed concern about the time commitment required for the committee.
Councilmember Strohman raised concerns about the requirement for committee members to live within city limits, questioning how it would apply to business owners in Escalon who live outside the city. Mayor Hagan suggested this requirement could be amended and echoed Councilmember Engle's earlier points.
Councilmember Engle clarified that business experience varies and supported aligning the committee requirements with those of other committees, which typically involve some connection to the town. He was open to discussing whether business owners living outside city limits could serve. Councilmember Engle also proposed that the committee should have a budget to engage with business owners.
Councilmember Strohman then asked if Council should set limits or reach out to individuals and encourage them to apply for the committee. Mayor Pro Tem Walker felt they should just encourage people to apply even though they may live outside city limits. Councilmember Kay felt if they have some kind of tie to Escalon they should be considered for serving on the committee.
MOTION - m/s STROHMAN/ENGLE to Approve Staff's Recommendation for the Establishment Formation of an Economic Development Committee. Motion approved 5-0. MINUTE ORDER 19-25
10. Consideration of Authorization of a Reserve Officer Training Contract Position Within the Escalon Police Department
Chief Hardgraves presented his staff report and provided a summary for the Council.
Mayor Hagan asked if this change would provide the police department with more flexibility and save money. Chief Hardgraves confirmed that it would, allowing him to use Reserve Officers to cover shifts. He also noted that, while it would cost about $5,000 per officer to complete their training, it could save money in the long run.
CM French explained that the department can no longer rely on reserve officers as they have in the past, because they now need to be FTO trained. He emphasized that the new plan would help with retaining officers. Mayor Pro Tem Walker acknowledged that this initiative would help keep officers more engaged and increase the likelihood of them staying with Escalon PD. She highlighted that retention is a key focus for the department and believes this program is worthwhile for retaining reserve officers.
Mayor Hagan suggested the possibility of incentivizing the program, proposing that officers who complete the FTO program could be required to stay with the Escalon Police Department for a certain period of time Chief Hardgraves responded that he would need to verify the legality of that proposal. He also mentioner that in the past two years, the department hired six new officers, and except for one, all of them required additional FTO training to complete the program.
Councilmember Strohman asked if the department has more than one officer capable of serving as an FTO for reserve officers. Chief Hardgraves responded that there are three full-time officers who are qualified as FTOs. He also confirmed that he would not want more than two FTOs training at the same time.
Councilmember Kay asked if officers who are FTO trained with Escalon PD would need to undergo FTO training again if they left to join a different agency. Chief Hardgraves responded that, unless they are lateral transfers, they would need to be trained again by the new agency.
MOTION - m/s ENGLE/WALKER to Authorize Reserve Officer Trainee Contract Position with the Escalon Police Department. Motion carried 5-0. MINUTE ORDER 20-25
11. Consideration of Update of Conflict of Interest Code CM French presented the staff report regarding updating the Conflict of Interest Code in which all members are now required to file their Form 700 with the FPPC electronically.
MOTION - m/s STROHMAN/KAY to Approve Resolution XX-25 to Approve Updates to the City's Conflict of Interest Policy to Follow the Requirements Set Forth Under AB1170. Motion carried 5-0.
MINUTE ORDER 21-25
12. Consideration of an Escalon City Council Handbook
CM French presented the staff report regarding the City Council Handbook. The purpose of the handbook is to provide clarity to the Council, community and staff on matters related to the Council, as well as to outline the policies and procedures governing its operations.
Councilmember Strohman suggested increasing the public comment limit for Agenda Item Requests from residents from five (5) minutes to fifteen (15) minutes, citing a recent situation where a community member submitted an agenda item request and the confusion about the time to speak. Councilmember Engle referred to the handbook, noting that "the Mayor has discretion to impose time limits for public comment, generally five minutes, and that the time limit can be waived when necessary to accommodate a request more fully." Councilmember Strohman clarified that his goal was to establish a higher limit, rather than having no limit at all.
Mayor Hagan expressed concerns that imposing a time constraint might reduce flexibility, noting that once a hard stop is enforced, the presentation would be cut off. Councilmember Strohman clarified that his main goal was to ensure the community has enough time to present the agenda item they requested, and he believes this necessitates more than five (5) minutes. Councilmember Kay agreed that a hard stop is necessary but suggested limiting presentations to no more than ten (10) minutes. Mayor Pro Tem Walker proposed updating the agenda request form to indicate how much time would be allotted for their presentation, if applicable. Councilmember Strohman agreed with adding this verbiage to the agenda request form.
Public Hearing Opened at 9:21 p.m.
Resident Sherry Hill expressed support for the idea but suggested that the agenda should include a statement clarifying that the request becomes a city staff presentation. She also disagreed with a hard stop at 10-15 minutes, believing it wouldn't provide enough time for individuals to fully express their reasons and concerns. Ms. Hill recommended leaving the time limit to the discretion of the Mayor for agenda request items.
Public Hearing Closed at 9:25 p.m.
Councilmember Engle expressed appreciation for the work put into the handbook but stated that he does not agree with setting rules for Council interactions and deliberations. He believes that approving the handbook would limit their ability to communicate freely, as it would enforce stricter adherence to the rules of engagement and that, if approved, the Mayor would be responsible for holding everyone accountable to those rules. Councilmember Engle explained that, under the proposed rules, the current informal way of speaking and engaging at the dais would end.
City Attorney Splendorio clarified that the intent of the handbook is to be a helpful guide, not a hindrance.
He pointed out that even under Robert's Rules, small bodies like the Council have the flexibility to apply rules informally, and he provided examples to support this. He suggested that changes could be made later if the Council wanted to make it easier to suspend certain rules. Mayor Hagan asked if the handbook could be adopted as a guideline, to which Splendorio responded that it likely wouldn't work that way because some matters in the handbook need to be enforceable as rules. He proposed that the document could function as a living document, subject to revisions and updates as the Council sees fit. The document could be reworked and brought back to the Council for further consideration.
MOTION - m/s STROHMAN/KAY to Table the Discussion on the Escalon City Council Handbook Until Further Revisions from Staff. Motion carried 4-0-1 (Engle abstain). MINUTE ORDER 22-25
COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS
Councilmember Kay thanked the applicants who applied for the Planning Commission and appreciated their time in coming to the meeting tonight.
Councilmember Strohman thanked the applicants for the Planning Commission and congratulated Mrs.
Thompson on her appointment. He shared that he attended Career and College Day at Dent Elementary, where he spoke to Mrs. Hillstrom's 5th grade class about being a City Councilmember. The class is putting together a list of things they would like to see in Escalon and he will ask permission of the Council for them to present at a future Council meeting. He also recognized the EHS FFA Club for their fantastic performance at Field Day at MJC. Strohman mentioned that the winter sports program recently wrapped up, and he noted that 70% of the students involved in winter sports have a GPA greater than 3.65, highlighting that the focus is not just on athletics. Lastly, he recognized Escalon High Senior Frankie Rodriguez for his outstanding wrestling career and thanked him and his coaches for representing the City of Escalon.
Councilmember Engle congratulated Mrs. Thompson on her appointment and reminded everyone about the upcoming Lions Club Corned Beef and Cabbage Dinner on Thursday. He also thanked CM French for his hard work on the handbook, acknowledging that it contains a lot of important information, though he expressed that he is not in favor of adding extra rules.
Mayor Pro Tem Walker commented on the handbook, suggesting it could possibly be rebranded as something else, perhaps as informational material for new council members, to be provided to them when they join. She also reiterated her suggestion to update the agenda item request form to make clear presentation responsibilities. She emphasized that having general guidelines on the form would be helpful.
Mayor Hagan thanked everyone for attending the meeting.
ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Hagan adjourned the meeting at 9:47 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
Michele Protes
Michele Bates, Deputy City Clerk