ESCALON MINUTES
CALIFORNIA CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ESCALON
MEETING OF JULY 21, 2025
City Council Chambers, 2060 McHenry Avenue -7:00 P.M.
I COMPORTED MAINTE
Beginning Resolution No. 44-25
Beginning Ordinance No. 600
Beginning Minute Order No. 51-25
PRESENT: Mayor Andrew Hagan
Councilmember Jeremy Engle
Councilmember Shawn Strohman
Councilmember Jeff Kay
EXCUSED: Mayor Pro Tem Malinda Walker
STAFF PRESENT: Jaylen French, City Manager (CM)
Celinda Bickner, Finance Director/HR Administrator (FDHRA) Juston Collins, Public Works Superintendent (PWS)
PRESENTATION
1. Recognition of Mason Silva, 2025 National Junior High Finals Rodeo (NJHFR) Reserve World Champion, Goat Tying
Mayor Hagan formally recognized Mason Silva for his outstanding accomplishments and expressed that le community is proud of him. He presented Mason with a certificate in honor of his achievement. Masc anked the City Council for the recognition and extended his gratitude to his family and coach for the support.
CONSENT CALENDAR
2. Approve Minutes from the Meeting of July 7, 2025
3. Approve Register of Demands for the Month of June 24-July 14, 2025 in the Amount of $899,177.13
4. Authorizing the City Manager to Execute and Submit a Claim for Measure K Non-Competitive Bicycle, Pedestrian, and Safe Routes to School Funds, Cycle 2 (FY 2022/23 - FY 2026/27) Resident Gabriella Vargas requested to pull Item 4 and Councilmember Strohman had a question regarding Item 2
MOTION - it was m/s STROHMAN/KAY to Approve Consent Calendar Item 3 as presented. Motion carried 4-0-1 (Walker Absent). MINUTE ORDER 51-25
Councilmember Strohman asked Councilmember Engle to confirm whether the minutes from the June 16th meeting had been amended as he previously requested. Councilmember Engle indicated he would confirm upon his full review. City Manager French confirmed that the minutes had been amended accordingly and were posted on the City's website.
Resident Gabriella Vargas was curious what improvements would be completed with the Measure K funds.
CM French responded these funds would support existing school site pedestrian safety projects.
MOTION - it was m/s STROHMAN/KAY to Approve Items 2 and 4 on the Consent Calendar as Presented. Motion carried 4-0-1 (Walker Absent) MINUTE ORDER 52-25
STAFF COMMUNICATIONS & UPDATES
5. June Updates
a. Treasurer's Report for June
b. Police Department Report for June
c. Animal Control Report for June
d. Recreation Report for June
e. Development Services Report for June
f. Public Works Report for June
Building Department for June
h. Water Department Report for June
i. Waste Water Treatment Plant Report for June
j. City Manager's Report (Verbal)
Chief Hardgraves reported that Officer Jumaoas has been hired by the City of Concord. As a result, the department has opened a recruitment for an officer position and currently has six qualified applicants.
Interviews are anticipated for the end of August. Additionally, Officer Gunter recently completed radar training, resulting in all full-time officers now being radar certified.
Councilmember Kay inquired about EPD's practice around public disclosure of witness information and emphasized the importance of not unintentionally revealing the identities of witnesses or reporting parties.
PWS Collins provided an update on the library roof repair and Yosemite Avenue sidewalk projects, noting progress on both. He also reported that street sweeping services with Autrey's have commenced and is going well.
Mayor Hagan inquired whether the sidewalk project would be completed before the start of the school year. PWS Collins responded that while the roadway portion of the project will be finished by then, thus allowing full traffic to use Yosemite, but the sidewalk portion of the project will be ongoing into September. However, traffic will remain open, and the contractor will be mindful of school traffic and bus routes during peak times.
Councilmember Kay mentioned recent incidents involving falling tree limbs and inquired if such occurrences are typical for this time of year. PWS Collins responded that it is not unusual during the summer, as branches can dry out and break off. He noted that while tree maintenance is ongoing, some trees are not trimmed as frequently as would be preferred due to limited funding.
Councilmember Kay sought confirmation of the slurry seal project schedule to which PWS Collins responded that it is scheduled to take place in September.
Public Comment Opened (7:18 p.m.)
Resident Gabriella Vargas asked whether the new Police Department contract would be made public. CM French responded that the Council is to consider the agreements with the City's three bargaining units at the August 4' meeting. Ms. Vargas then asked if the officers are currently working without a contract, to which CM French confirmed that the contracts had been agreed to in principle, the Council will formally approve.
Ms. Vargas further inquired about police officers turnover and City's options to retain officers. Chief Hardgraves responded that officer retention is a statewide challenge and that many move agencies after they have been fully trained. He then noted that agencies have provided various incentives to address this issue and expressed optimism that with improved pay the department may be able retain officers to a greater degree.
Mayor Hagan noted some officers seek opportunities in larger departments where they can advance into more advanced roles or units.
CM French emphasized that officer retention is an important issue for the City. He, however, acknowledged that employees will naturally seek career advancement, especially from smaller departments and that Escalon's size limits the range of opportunities for employees compared to larger jurisdictions. He expressed that City staff is proactively working to address these challenges.
Public Comment Closed (7:25 p.m.)
MATTERS PRESENTED FROM THE AUDIENCE
Resident Sherry Hill expressed why she respectfully declined the call to apply for the Measure P Committee, as it appeared to her that spending decisions were made prior to committee formation.
Resident Gabriella Vargas also raised the Measure P committee issue, stating that she was informed that funds had already been designated for various uses. She noted that public safety was a key reason for voting in favor of Measure P and expressed concern regarding the Council's prior allocation of the funds.
Additionally, she inquired about the status of the First Street beautification project.
Ms. Vargas inquired whether the Dent Sidewalk project included new sprinklers and portions of lawns for affected homes. PWS Collins confirmed that it did, because front yards were impacted by the concrete forming efforts and that lawns were adjusted to create a safe transition between the lawns and sidewalks.
Lastly, Ms. Vargas informed the Council and staff that several crosswalk buttons throughout the city are malfunctioning and requested that the issue be addressed. PWS Collins responded that he would investigate.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
6. Belleterra Estates, Landscape Maintenance District No. 01-1, Public Hearing on Levy of Assessment, and Consider Adoption of Resolution CC-25 Approving the Engineer's Report Including Confirming the Diagram, Assessments, and Ordering the Levy of Assessments for Fiscal Year 2025-2026
7. Estates Benefit Assessment District No. 06-1, Public Hearing on Levy of Assessment, and Consider Adoption of Resolution XX-25 Approving the Engineer's Report Including Confirming the Diagram, Assessments, and Ordering the Levy of Assessments for Fiscal Year 2025-2026
8. The Estates, Landscape and Lighting Maintenance District No. 06-1, Public Hearing on Levy of Assessment, and Consider Adoption of Resolution XX-25 Approving the Engineer's Report Including Confirming the Diagram, Assessments, and Ordering the Levy of Assessments for Fiscal Year 2025-2026
9. Sunrise Terrace Landscape Maintenance District No. 96-1, Public Hearing on Levy of Assessment, and Consider Adoption of Resolution XX-25 Approving the Engineer's Report Including Confirming the Diagram, Assessments, and Ordering the Levy of Assessments for Fiscal Year 2025-2026
10. Westwood Country Landscape and Lighting Maintenance District No. 02-1, Public Hearing on Levy of Assessment, and Consider Adoption of Resolution XX-25 Approving the Engineer's Report Including Confirming the Diagram, Assessments, and Ordering the Levy of Assessments for Fiscal Year 2025-2026
For items 6-10, CM French presented the staff reports for all five items and a slideshow for the annual assessment rates for each district.
Mayor Hagan inquired whether it would be possible to project estimated costs for the next few years to help residents in these districts anticipate future assessments. CM French stated that the City could, but that it would be an informal estimate and that the final would be adopted by the Council annually.
Mayor Hagan remarked about the language regarding general and special benefits in each district report and that it is difficult to see how removing that language would impact individual rights. CM French clarified that the removal of various definitions four years ago did not affect the district assessment levels or improvements.
Councilmember Strohman stated that no one was aware of the language changes until this year, emphasizing that the change was identified by a resident and that it had been overlooked by the Council, City staff, and Harris & Associates.
Councilmember Strohman questioned whether residents within Landscape and Lighting Districts (LLDs) are effectively being double charged paying both their district assessments and property taxes, which also contribute to maintaining citywide parks and general benefits City Attorney Splendorio clarified that, legally, they are not being double charged. He explained that under Proposition 218, there is a distinction between taxes and assessments: taxes fund the general operations of the City through the general fund, while assessments are levied specifically for special benefits that only certain properties receive. When a property owner purchases in an LLD, they agree to the associated assessment for those special benefits.
Councilmember Strohman requested clarification of the special benefits provided to the Belleterra Landscape and Lighting District (LLD) referring to page 110 of the agenda packet, he cited the listed special benefits and expressed concern that residents of Belleterra appear to be paying for services that he believes are not exclusive and should be available to all residents of the City of Escalon.
Councilmember Engle referred to page 101 of the agenda packet and inquired whether this list was the items that comprised the assessment. CM French responded by outlining the special benefits in concrete terms-such as enhanced landscaping, lighting, walls, and other improvements-emphasizing that these amenities are maintained at a higher standard than in other neighborhoods. He explained that residents of the Belleterra LLD directly benefit from and fund this elevated level of maintenance.
Legal Counsel Rich Wall confirmed that the items on page 110 outline the legal justification for imposing assessments, whereas the items listed on 101 are the direct maintenance areas which make up the assessment rate.
Councilmember Engle inquired about tree maintenance in the Belleterra district, noting repeated comments that the trees had not been trimmed regularly and asked PWS Collins to address the issue. PWS Collins clarified that district trees had been trimmed on multiple occasions. During early growth stages, Public Works maintained clearance from the ground up to 8-10 feet. However, over the past 2-3 years, the trees have matured and now require full trimming beyond the department's equipment capabilities. As a result, contractors will be needed to perform the necessary work.
Councilmember Engle asked whether the cost of hiring a contractor for tree trimming was already included in the budget. CM French confirmed that the full assessment, as outlined in the reports, covers periodic tree maintenance.
Mayor Hagan asked in order to save money could PW staff maintain the trees. PWS Collins explained that to loven hat Public Works could or able tom ain the tres for ever ears before necding o contract the work out again after substantial regrowth.
Councilmember Kay sought clarification regarding Grover's responsibility for trimming trees along Brennan. PWS Collins explained that Grover handles small scale trimming as part of their landscaping responsibilities.
Councilmember Strohman asked whether the City had solicited bids for tree trimming services. PWS Collins confirmed that three bids had already been received, with costs ranging between $25,000 and $30,000 for the Belleterra district.
Public Hearing Opened (8:11 p.m.)
Resident Peggy Payne, a 23-year resident of Belleterra, shared that per her recollection the district trees had only been trimmed once. She also mentioned that her area of the neighborhood is particularly dark and requested that the lighting be checked to ensure it is functioning properly. Ms. Payne expressed concern over the high cost of services, stating she does not believe residents are receiving the level of maintenance they are being charged for.
CM French emphasized that the purpose of the assessments is to maintain the district's landscape and infrastructure to their new/current condition, not wait for deterioration then repair.
Councilmember Strohman followed up by questioning whether the neighborhood appears well-maintained because of City efforts or because residents of the Landscape and Lighting District (LLD) are doing the work themselves. He expressed his belief that it is primarily the residents who are maintaining the neighborhood, not the City.
Councilmember Engle asked whether an itemized list of expenditures from was available to denote the associated costs. Several individuals responded that such a list had been included in prior reports.
Resident Scott [Last Name], from Belleterra, voiced concerns about the limited number of times he believes the trees have been trimmed in the neighborhood. He questioned the logic of increasing rates now, noting that the City is recommending hiring a contractor at a higher cost. He expressed his belief that funds were available in the account all along. He added that he has personally trimmed his own trees and assisted neighbors with theirs, making it difficult for him to understand the justification for the proposed rate increases.
A Belleterra resident of 23 years stated that the trees in their neighborhood have only been trimmed once by Swift, while Grover has not performed any trimming. He noted that residents have been trimming low- hanging branches themselves. He then asked about the purpose of the backstop located in the basin at the park to which PWS Collins explained that it is for baseball practice. The resident expressed concern that users of the backstop may not be Belleterra residents, yet the neighborhood is funding it. He also recalled that a few years prior, residents requested a bench at the park, which was not approved, but instead a costly backstop was installed, which he felt was an unnecessary expense and a waste of money.
Councilmember Engle inquired whether it was possible to determine if the backstop was funded by the district or through a different source. PWS Collins responded that the backstop has been in place for approximately 5-6 years and that he has records he can review. He expressed confidence that the district did not fund the backstop, explaining it was likely part of a community project that installed several backstops across multiple residential parks.
Resident Natalie Gallegos, from Belleterra, expressed her gratitude to CM French and FDHRA Bickner for meeting with her and providing detailed explanations. She noted that the distinction between general and special benefits has become unclear. Ms. Gallegos stated that when certain clauses were removed from the original report—which all residents knowingly signed they were not notified that these changes affected special benefits, resulting in some services being charged separately and amortized, thereby increasing costs. She emphasized that residents were not given an opportunity to vote under Proposition 218 on these changes. Ms. Gallegos expressed concern that residents are effectively being taxed twice: once for citywide maintenance and again for their district. She advocated for residents to have a clear voice in what services are added or removed and for these changes to be transparently tracked. To ensure fairness, she proposed reverting the contract to its original terms, educating residents, and providing them with the opportunity to vote on any future additions or modifications. She called for greater transparency throughout the process.
Councilmember Engle asked whether it is legally possible to reinstate the original contract language. City Attorney Splendorio explained that the district assessment process is conducted annually, with reports prepared and approved by the Council. While the reports themselves can be modified, any services provided must align with the original report that underwent the Proposition 218 process.
Councilmember Strohman raised concerns about whether residents were directly notified—outside of the annual report that LLD funds were being used to replace fences, and whether residents were aware that some properties within the district benefited from this. CM French indicated that various cities and councils handle this matter differently and this is a matter of policy. LLD law does not require cities to notify residents of funded improvements to include facilities within the district if the maximum assessment is not exceed, and indicated that staff would follow council direction.
Resident John Hall, from Belleterra, inquired why the discussion had not yet included mention of cost- saving measures. He inquired how frequently the contract with Grover is put out to bid. PWS Collins responded that the contract is rebid approximately every three years. Mr. Hall also raised issues about water usage in the park, noting that the sprinklers seem to run continuously, even during the rainy season.
An Escalon resident who lives near Sandalwood Park requested that, at the end of each year, an itemized report be provided detailing how LLD funds were spent and what remaining funds are still available.
Resident Sean Lynch, from Belleterra, expressed his appreciation for living in Escalon and his neighborhood. He acknowledged that when he purchased his home, he was aware of the assessments for maintaining parks and green spaces, including the potential for increases, which were disclosed to all homeowners. Mr. Lynch reviewed past assessment amounts and stated that he believes the City has done a good job keeping costs down, with actual assessments remaining well below their allowable limits. He noted that the primary concern among residents relates to tree maintenance, emphasizing that while the trees were once young and manageable by Public Works, they have now matured and require specialized equipment for proper care. Overall, he feels Belleterra is well maintained and is pleased with the City's Councilmember Kay thanked Mr. Lynch for his positive remarks, stating that it was refreshing to hear appreciation for the City's efforts. He noted that it's encouraging to have residents speak in support, rather than only approaching the podium to voice complaints.
Resident Marty VanHouten asked about the status of the Murphy Ranch project and expressed concern that future residents may use facilities in Belleterra without contributing to their upkeep. He questioned whether Murphy Ranch would also be assessed to help cover those costs.
CM French provided a status update of the project, which is anticipated to go before the Planning Commission within the next few months and then to City Council and LAFCO and if approved construction would like start in late-2026.
CM French added that assessments for Murphy Ranch will align with the Council's fiscal stability priorities and could involve either annexing the area into the existing LLD or creating a Community Facilities District (CFD). A CFD would have broader funding capabilities, including landscape and lighting, maintenance, as well as other services like Police, etc.
Mr. VanHouten asked whether new residents using the park or contributing stormwater to the basin would share in the associated costs. City Attorney Rich Hall responded that any increased demands-such as park expansion—would be funded by those new residents. However, existing infrastructure was built specifically for the benefit of Belleterra and would remain the responsibility of that district.
Mr. VanHouten then inquired about the process to dissolve the LLD, stating he had heard it would require a vote of 50 percent plus one to pass.
Legal Counsel Richard Hall explained that while it is possible to dissolve a Landscape Maintenance District (LMD), this typically occurs only when the city or agency is no longer providing services or collecting assessments. In such a case, all services outlined in the engineer's report would cease, and the responsibility for maintenance would shift entirely to the property owners.
An Escalon resident expressed concern about street maintenance and increased use by new subdivisions.
CM French clarified that streets are public infrastructure and are not maintained through the assessment Councilmember Kay clarified that if approved, the Murphy Ranch development would add approximately
1.1 acres to the existing park on the north side.
Public Hearing Closed (8:54 p.m.)
Councilmember Strohman noted that this topic has been discussed since March and that mailers were sent to all residents in the affected districts, yet only Belleterra residents attended the meeting. He commended staff for developing different funding options for capital replacement costs but expressed that now is not the right time to move forward. He advocated for pausing all capital replacement expenditures across all Landscape Lighting Districts (LLDs).
Strohman emphasized the Council's goal of increasing transparency and acknowledged that, for the first time, residents are actively reviewing the engineer's report. However, he expressed strong reservations about collecting funds for a wall likely not requiring replacement for another 50 years. He also stated that decisions about replacing playground equipment should be made by residents within the LLD, not the Council.
Mayor Hagan requested clarification on the proposed pause. City Attorney Splendorio explained that the assessments are determined annually, so opting not to include capital replacement costs this year would effectively constitute a pause.
Councilmember Engle emphasized the importance of continuing to save for potential major repairs in their area. He acknowledged that while the proposed assessment increase is significant, it reflects rising costs due to inflation. In his view, the neighborhood remains one of the best maintained in the city, with no visible decline in quality—an outcome he attributes to the proactive measures taken thus far.
Councilmember Engle suggested potential improvements to the assessment process for future years. He recommended that the annual itemized expenditure list be included in every engineer's report to enhance transparency. Additionally, he proposed providing more advance notice ahead of the annual assessment to allow residents greater opportunity to attend meetings and share their input.
Councilmember Kay asked City Attorney Splendorio whether the engineer's report could alter the original formation documents. Attorney Splendorio clarified that it could notthe formation documents, established through a Proposition 218 process, remain unchanged. Councilmember Kay further confirmed that no engineer's report issued since the original formation has modified the structure of the Landscape and Lighting Maintenance District (LMD). Splendorio affirmed this, stating that by definition, the engineer's report cannot change the formation.
Councilmember Kay commented that he does not see the significance of the language that was added or removed from the engineer's report, particularly since it has been absent for the past four years without issue. He questioned the necessity of reinstating the language and offered for residents to clarify the intent of reinstating the language.
Councilmember Kay acknowledged that the $125 assessment increase could pose a significant burden, particularly for those on a fixed income. He does not support the removal of capital replacement costs and emphasized the importance of being forward-looking in maintaining the district. However, he expressed concern about continuing to collect assessments indefinitely, suggesting that there should be a clear cap or limit.
CM French explained that there is a statutory limit on the level of assessment that can be held in reserves.
In response, Councilmember Kay suggested that once that reserve threshold is reached, the capital replacement cost assessments should be reduced accordingly, with the option to reassess in future years as needed. Specifically referencing the Belleterra district, he proposed a phased approach charging only a portion of the full $125 assessment, such as half this year and potentially the same amount next year- instead of collecting the full amount all at once.
Councilmember Engle raised a concern about which areas might experience reduced funding or neglect if the assessment were lowered. In response, Councilmember Kay clarified that his proposal to split the increase in half would allow the district to build reserves, just at a slower pace. He emphasized that this approach would ease the financial burden on residents by spreading the impact over time, while still ensuring funds are available in the event of an unexpected issuesuch as damage to the wall.
Councilmember Strohman asked whether the city would be responsible for rebuilding a wall if it were damaged by an uninsured motorist. CM French clarified that, in most cases, walls not maintained by a district are the responsibility of the individual property owner. He noted that in many areas walls that are damaged often remain in disrepair if the property owner lacks the resources to fix them. However, if a district is in place to maintain the wall, there is a dedicated revenue source to ensure proper repairs.
Councilmember Engle expressed support for helping residents manage costs but voiced concern about the risk of deferring the full assessment. He cautioned that reducing the fee this year could lead to a more significant and potentially burdensome increase next year, especially given economic uncertainties and the impact of inflation. In his view, it may be more prudent to proceed with the current assessment amount to avoid a larger financial shock in the future.
CM French clarified that the Council has the discretion to set the assessment level anywhere below the allowable maximum, depending on the circumstances and needs at that time.
Mayor Hagan acknowledged that the assessment increase can be significant for individuals. He expressed support for the process becoming more streamlined and transparent and agreed that by easing the assessment this year would be a reasonable approach to help them prepare for next year's fees.
Councilmember Strohman responded to Councilmember Kay's remarks about the special conditions and their cost, clarifying that his intention in reinstating those conditions was to reset the discussion and to ensure transparency and proper awareness.
Councilmember Strohman reiterated that he was elected to represent the people, and that is exactly what he is working to do and wondered if any increase should be put to a vote of the district.
Legal Counsel Rich Hall provided clarification, explaining that a Proposition 218 vote by property owners is only required under specific circumstances: when increasing the assessment beyond the established maximum, expanding the district boundaries to include additional properties, or extending the assessment if it has reached its term. Otherwise, under state law, there is no procedure for property owner voting on an allowable increase.
MOTION - it was m/s by KAY/HAGAN to Approve an Annual Assessments Charge for Belleterra at $75.00 this Year (reduced from $126.00). Motion did not carry with a 2-2-1 vote. (Nays - Engle and Strohman. Walker Excused). Motion did not pass. MINUTE ORDER 53-25 MOTION - it was motioned by Councilmember Engle to Adopt Resolution Number XX-25 Approving the Engineers Report Including the Diagram Assessments and Ordering of Levy Assessments for Fiscal Year 25/26. There was no second to the motion.
MOTION - it was m/s STROMAN/KAY to Approve Resolutions for the BAD Estates, Estates Landscape and Lighting Maintenance, Sunrise Terrace and Westwood Country Landscape and Lighting Maintenance as Presented. Motion carried 4-0-1 (Walker Excused). MINUTE ORDER 54-25 MOTION - it was m/s STROHMAN/HAGAN to Continue the Public Hearing on Belleterra Estates Until the August 4'h Regularly Schedule City Council Meeting. Motion carried 3-1-1 (Yay - Strohman, Hagan, Kay. Nay - Engle. Walker Excused) MINUTE ORDER 55-25
ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
11. Agenda Request to Revisit the Number of Measure P Advisory Committee Members by Councilmembers Jeff Kay and Jeremy Engle
Councilmember Kay noted that due to the lack of initial interest in serving on the committee, that the committee should revert to the originally proposal of a three-member body.
Councilmember Engle explained that his original intent in proposing the Measure P Committee was to nsure that spending remained transparent and that residents had a voice in how the funds were used. Engl xpressed support for reducing the committee to three members, noting that while the Council had initiall leaned toward five, returning to three would allow the committee to be formed more quickly and begin gathering public input without further delay.
Councilmember Strohman noted that the City of Escalon has maintained a precedent of five person Committees/Commissions. He questioned how that structure would function with only three members. In response, Councilmember Engle explained that to expedite the committee's formation, the Committee could start with three and expand over time if desired. This approach would allow the committee to begin gathering public input on how Measure P funds should be spent.
Councilmember Strohman asked whether the interviews for the Measure P Committee would take place at the August 4th meeting, with the intention of selecting three members at that time. Councilmember Kay confirmed that this was the proposal. Councilmember Strohman acknowledged that he had originally advocated for a five-member committee, but agreed that, given the current need for progress and the points raised by Councilmembers Kay and Engle, moving forward with three members now makes the most sense.
Public Comment Opened (9:40 p.m.)
Resident Gabriella Vargas shared that she applied for the committee after it reopened but initially chose not to apply because a Councilmember had informed her that it was merely an advisory body with no real decision-making authority. She expressed concern and disappointment, questioning what actual impact committee members would have.
In response, Mayor Hagan explained that the City Council is elected by the people to represent their interests, and that the Council now operates under an approved strategic plan that guides its direction. He noted it would be counterproductive for the Council to delegate final decision-making authority to appointees and illustrated the potential dangers in this approach due to lack of accountability. Therefore, the committee should remain advisory in nature, with the Council taking heed of committee recommendations.
Councilmember Engle indicated it would be disheartening if the Council did not take Committee recommendations seriously and that this is the entire purpose of the committee. He emphasized that the Council should seriously consider the committee's input and offer clear reasoning when decisions align or do not align —with the committee's findings, whether due to the strategic plan or budget constraints. He stressed that the committee was created specifically to give residents a voice and prevent the perception that the Council is acting unilaterally.
An Escalon resident inquired about how committee members plan to engage with many segments of the community. Councilmember Engle responded that a small budget has been approved to support outreach efforts. The intention is for the committee to use these opportunities, beyond formal presentations, to connect with a diverse cross-section of the community and develop ideas for effective public engagement.
She noted that, as people age, simple needs like having benches to rest while walking become important.
She suggested that Measure P funds might be used to install benches in public areas to provide seniors with places to sit and take breaks.
Public Comment Closed (9:52 p.m.)
Councilmember Strohman emphasized that the committee seeks members who can represent a broad range of community interests across Measure P, rather than focusing on a single issue. He asked Councilmember Engle if this was an accurate characterization. Councilmember Engle agreed, expressing the hope that committee members will actively engage with the community to gather diverse perspectives and ultimately present a consensus-driven set of recommendations.
MOTION - it was m/s STROMAN/KAY to Revise the Committee Membership of the Measure P Committee from Five Members to Three Members and Hold Interviews on August 4th. Motion carried 4- 0-1 (Walker Excused) MINUTE ORDER 56-25
12. Consider Appointment of Applicant to the One (1) Vacant Seat Available to the Newly Formed Economic Development Committee
At this time, CM French presented the staff report concerning the vacant seat on the Economic Development Committee indicating that the Committee had one available seat and that the City had opened a subsequent recruitment process which ended in receiving one application.
Mayor Hagan remarked that the applicant's resume was impressive. Councilmember Kay added that the applicant made a strong impression during her previous interview and expressed his support for her appointment to the committee.
Public Comment Opened (9:56 p.m.)
Resident Natalie Gallagos commented that she was present at the interviews and was impressed with Ms.
Long.
Public Comment Closed (9:56 p.m.)
MOTION - it was m/s STROHMAN/KAY to Appoint Rita Long to the Vacant Economic Development Committee Seat. Motion carried 3-1-1 (Engle Abstained, Walker Excused). MINUTE ORDER 57-25
COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS
Councilmember Kay thanked everyone for attending the meeting and expressed hope to see the community at the upcoming Park Fete event this weekend. He also extended appreciation to the Lions Club for their hard work in organizing the event.
Councilmember Engle acknowledged that his passionate delivery can sometimes come across with an unintended tone and apologized if it ever sounded harsh. He also mentioned the upcoming Park Fete, noting the many planned activities had been added this year and hoped to see the community attend the event.
Councilmember Engle praised the Lions Club for bringing together numerous organizations and noted significant improvements to the event, believing this year's Fete will be the best in many years. He encouraged continued growth and enhancement of the event for the community in the future.
Councilmember Strohman reminded fellow Councilmembers to order their candy from Amazon in time for the parade. He expressed appreciation for the discussions regarding the Landscape Lighting Districts (LLDs) and thanked staff and the city attorney for their valuable input. He also congratulated Mason Silva on his achievement.
Mayor Hagan remarked that all his comments had been previously addressed.
Council then adjourned to Close Session
CLOSED SESSION
13. Public Employee Evaluation (Gov't Code Sec. 54957)
Title: City Manager
Council returned from Closed Session at 10:55 p.m.. All Councilmembers were present for the duration of the meeting. Mayor Hagan reported that the City Manager received an excellent review.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, Mayor Hagan adjourned the meeting at approximately 10:55 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
Michele Bontes
Michele Bates, Deputy City Clerk