ESCALON MINUTES
CALIFORNIA CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ESCALON
MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 15, 2025
STEPPING STO
1O CENTRAL City Council Chambers, 2060 McHenry Avenue -7:00 P.M.
CAUFORNA
INCORPORATED MARCH 12, 1951
Beginning Resolution No. 50-25
Beginning Ordinance No. 600
Beginning Minute Order No. 67-25
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, Legal Counsel
Michele Bates, Deputy City Clerk
PRESENTATIONS
1. 2025-2026 Strategic Plan Quarter Two Update
CM French, FDHRA Bickner and Chief Hardgraves provided an 2nd Quarterly Update on the City's adopted 2025-2026 Strategic Plan.
CONSENT CALENDAR
2. Approve Minutes from the Meeting of August 15, 2025.
3. Approve Register of Demands for the Month of August 13 - September 8, 2025 in the Amount of $657,568.83
4. Authorization to Submit the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Sections 5311 and 5339 Applications
Councilmember Strohman requested to pull Item 2.
MOTION - it was m/s by STROHMAN/KAY to Approve Consent Calendar Items 3 and 4 as Presented.
Motion carried 5-0. MINUTE ORDER 67-25.
Councilmember Strohman noted that in the second motion of Item 7 of the August 18%h meeting, that he did not abstain, instead he voted in favor of the motion and requested that this correction be made prior to adoption.
MOTION - it was m/s by STROHMAN/KAY to Approve Consent Calendar Item 2 as Amended. Motion carried 5-0. MINUTE ORDER 68-25.
STAFF COMMUNICATION
5. August Updates
a. Treasurer's Report
b. Police Department Report
c. Animal Control Report
d. Recreation Report
e. Development Services Report
f. Public Works Report
g. Building Department
h. Water Department Report
i. Waste Water Treatment Plant Report
j. City Manager's Report (Verbal)
FDHRA Bickner presented the Treasurer's Report to the Council and provided a summary of its contents.
Chief Hardgraves reported that officers have been conducting additional patrols at McHenry Avenue & Ullrey Avenue in response to concerns regarding unsafe driving by large trucks. The difficulty of the intersection and its adjacency to the railroad was discussed as well as inquiries about potential other solutions.
Chief Hardgraves reported on youth scooter activity around town, noting EPD has been communicating directly with youth to ensure law compliance and safety. He further stated that Officer Harrison delivered safety presentations at local schools at the start of the school year. Chief Hardgraves also provided information on incidents reported at skate parks in other communities as requested previously.
PWS Collins reported on the proposed installation of benches for senior citizens, noting that costs, ADA requirements, and placement considerations make the project currently infeasible without further Council direction. He also advised that sprinkler issues at Swanson Park have been addressed, and that staff continue to work to repair non-functioning crosswalks on Escalon Avenue, and that the dead tree on Oklahoma has been trimmed to clear visibility of stop signs.
Councilmember Strohman recommended consulting the Senior Fun Bunch to identify common walking routes that could guide bench placement. Councilmember Kay suggested designating one park as a senior walking route and installing benches there.
CM French provided updates on a prior request to add an amenity to Swanson park noting that this would come forward in the coming months as staff works through various issues, potential grass leveling at Main Street Park, and the increase in participation in the city's flag football program.
MATTERS PRESENTED FROM THE AUDIENCE
Resident Luke Eggers expressed opposition to the proposed dog park at Sanchez Park, noting that he and his neighbors do not support the project. He thanked Councilmember Kay for engaging with residents and stated his belief that the town is not large enough to sustain a dog park, suggesting funds be directed instead to recreation programs or other City projects. He believes if a dog park is placed at the suggested location, that area will be taken away from the kids and teams that practice out there.
Resident Toni Fernandez lives directly across from the proposed dog park is opposed to the location. She did email Councilmember Kay regarding the project and points of importance to her.
Resident Kurt Dazinger inquired whether the loans for the community center and city hall were included in the debt service listed in the budget. FDHRA Bickner clarified that they are not, as those loans were intended to be paid through development impact fees, which have been lower than anticipated
PUBLIC HEARINGS
None
ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
6. Consider Location of Proposed Escalon Skate Park Phase I; and Consider Deal Points for a Memorandum of Understanding between the Escalon Parks Foundation and the City of Escalon CM French presented the staff report, outlining the two outstanding issues: 1) potential location options including estimated costs, and 2) key points of the MOU with Escalon Parks Foundation (EPF).
Councilmember Strohman inquired about the components included in the budget figures. CM French explained that the estimates were based on unit costs from the recent Yosemite Sidewalk Project and provide a general sense of sidewalk costs. PWS Collins committed to verify that the existing sidewalk at Hogan Park meets ADA compliance standards.
Mayor Pro Tem Walker inquired about potential impacts if the Council selected the first proposed location, specifically regarding the existing parking lot and the house on the property currently being rented. CM French indicated that the residential property would not be directly affected, while noting that upon selection of the preferred location that final details could be fully addressed.
Councilmember Strohman asked how many parking spaces might be lost if the skatepark were built in the first option. PWS Collins estimated a loss of approximately 20-25 stalls, but that the plan was to rebuild the lost portion of the parking lot.
General discussion ensued about potential solutions for ingress and egress on Escalon-Bellota Road and costs and funding sources for improvements and how these costs could be incorporated in the City's budget process if needed.
Councilmember Engle inquired of Mr. Laugero about the MOU deal points and associated costs. Mr.
Laugero responded that any additional costs could require further fundraising. He indicated that an $18,000 increase would be challenging, whereas a $4,500 increase if it ensures ADA compliance would be more manageable.
Councilmember Engle inquired about EPF's long-term plans for the skatepark. Mr. Laugero explained that the organization has not yet discussed future development with its current board, but emphasized that EPF specifically raised funds to build a skatepark and is committed to delivering the "bowl" feature.
Councilmember Strohman expressed support for moving the project forward but voiced concerns regarding the budget. He noted that the Council currently lacks sufficient information to make an informed decision.
Mr. Laugero responded that they have budget information for the project and that a limiting factor to securing additional funds is forward progress, but by advancing the MOU discussion, defining the location of the bowl, and providing the community with a clear timeline, the project could attract additional donations and relieve any potential City responsibility.
Councilmember Kay requested that EPF provide the Council with the line-item document from Dreamland, to which Mr. Laugero responded that an updated version would be available soon. Councilmember Kay then presented cost estimates for sidewalks and the potential loss of parking spaces, noting that the initially proposed site would result in minimal parking loss, reduced sidewalk needs, and a limited financial impact on the City. He also observed that the "clover" bowl design would be visually appealing at that location.
Additionally, he acknowledged that security cameras and fencing will need to be addressed in the future, with responsibility for those items to be determined at that time. He concluded by emphasizing the importance of making a decision and moving the project forward.
Councilmember Strohman then asked Mr. Laugero whether, if finances were not a factor, EPF had a preferred location. Mr. Laugero replied that they did not have a specific preference; however, from a cost perspective, as well as in consideration of the master plan and law enforcement input, the west side location would be the most suitable.
Public Comment Opened at 8:43 p.m.
Resident Kurt Dazinger stated that the primary issue surrounding the skatepark is its location. He provided background on the City's past MOU negotiations and explained why an agreement was not previously signed. Mr. Dazinger expressed the view that the skatepark has never had broad community support beyond EPF members and a small group of others. He emphasized that EPF's role was intended to be designing, funding, and delivering a finished project to the City. He cautioned that once City funds are combined with nonprofit contributions, the project becomes a municipal responsibility. Noting that the project has already spanned 15 years, he expressed doubt that additional funding would be forthcoming.
Resident Sherry Hill spoke in support of the skatepark. As a mother and grandmother, she expressed safety concerns, including the risk of kidnappings, with placing the facility near Escalon-Bellota Road. She advocated for locating the skatepark on the west side of the park. Ms. Hill emphasized that community members do want the project to move forward and expressed frustration with delays caused. She urged the Council to trust the residents, assuring them that the community will ensure the skatepark's success and provide support for its completion.
Resident Gary Haskin reflected on the long process leading to the current stage of the skatepark project, noting that past Councils had expressed support but lacked sufficient funding. He commended EPF for successfully raising the necessary funds and expressed frustration with the ongoing meetings and repeated discussions. Mr. Haskin concluded by urging the Council to move forward and complete the project.
Public Comment Closed at 8:55 p.m.
Mayor Hagan proposed designating a location for the skatepark and allowing EPF to proceed with discussions with the City to resolve outstanding issues before breaking ground. Councilmember Kay expressed his agreement with this approach.
CM French noted that if it is the direction of the Council, staff can work quickly to get the outstanding issues resolved and bring back before the Council.
MOTION - it was m/s ENGLE/STROHMAN to Propose the Location of the Escalon Skate Park on the West Side of the Proposed Location. Motion carried 3-2 (Mayor Hagan and Mayor Pro Tem Walker voted Nay). MINUTE ORDER 69-25
MOTION - it was m/s STROHMAN/KAY to Table the MOU Deal Points Until Staff and/or EPF Come Back with Better Budget Numbers Moving Forward. Motion carried 5-0. MINUTE ORDER 70-25
7. Consider Termination and Settlement Agreement Outlining Escalon Unified School District Purchase of City's Interest in the Pool Facilities per the 2000 Swimming Pool Facilities Agreement between the City of Escalon and Escalon Unified School District; and Authorize the City Manager to Execute the Agreement
CM French presented the staff report on the termination and settlement agreement with the Escalon Union School District providing a history up to this date and the need for the termination and settlement agreement.
Mayor Hagan explained that the pool is beyond repair and unwanted by the School District. And while it is a difficult decision, the City must move forward by dissolving the current contract and if desired exploring opportunities to develop a new swimming pool on public land.
Councilmember Engle highlighted that the school district offered the City use of El Portal's fields for three years, up to 40 days per year, to support Recreation Department programs. He asked if this would limit public access during City use. CM French confirmed the fields would be open and accessible to the public.
Mayor Hagan clarified that EUSD's cautious approach stems from liability concerns, and the district prefers to pilot the program first to evaluate how it works, but is receptive to extending the agreement to allow for greater use if all goes well.
Councilmember Engle requested written confirmation of the terms, noting that the City is trading $142,000 for 120 days of field use. He expressed concerns that travel teams currently use the fields while the City has limited access, and he believes the City may be receiving the short end of the agreement.
Councilmember Strohman stated that while the pool is not a City responsibility, he and other Councilmembers have worked for the past two and a half years to pursue its reopening. He noted the pool is in critical need of upgrades but doesn't believe the city should bear the Districts 60.16% share of the cost to repair. He also observed that the school district has not expressed interest in contributing funds toward the facility. He acknowledged the community's interest in having a public pool and viewed this step as progress toward that goal.
Councilmember Kay questioned under whose responsibility the pool fell under disrepair, with CM French indicated it was during the school district's oversight. He also asked whether the appraisal reflected the pool's current condition, which CM French confirmed. Councilmember Kay commented that instead of gaining a return on the community's investment, the City is losing value because the pool was allowed to deteriorate.
Councilmember Kay expressed agreement with Councilmember Engle that the current proposal is not where the City should ultimately end up on this matter. Replacing the pool with a like feature would likely cost between $5-10 million. At this time, such an expenditure is not feasible, particularly considering the proposed pay out from the District.
Councilmember Strohman agreed $300,000 is insufficient to start a new pool, but expressed this would provide a financial and community organization starting point on a true community swimming pool.
Councilmember Engle expressed doubt that a community pool would ever happen due to its significant cost. He emphasized working with the district to adjust the deal and part ways amicably.
Mayor Pro Tem Walker noted that if the City uses the fields at El Portal, community voices will likely be heard by the district should there be any pushback. She added that if the district observes positive outcomes from the City's use of its campuses, it may eventually extend facility use, but at present the district remains cautious.
Councilmember Engle acknowledged that the district has stated the high school facilities will not be available, but he believes the issue remains negotiable. While recognizing the importance of being a good partner with the district, he emphasized the Council's responsibility to be good stewards of their positions.
Public Comment Opened at 9:45 pm
Resident Sherry Hill felt EUSD is not being a team player, urged the City to invest the funds into Hogan Park fields, and encouraged the Council to move forward and finalize the matter.
Public Comment Closed at 9:49 pm
Councilmember Engle expressed appreciation for Ms. Hill's idea of using the funds to expand Hogan Park.
He inquired what $367,000 could accomplish in terms of expanding the fields and thereby reducing reliance on the schools. PWS Collins indicated that the cost to connect a larger area of park to City water would in the tens of thousands of dollars range. Councilmember Engle acknowledged this would be a long-term solution, noting that it might take additional time, during which the City would need to rely on existing community parks.
Further discussion among Councilmembers focused on potential amendments and wording adjustments to the termination and settlement agreement, as well as strategies for presenting a counter-offer to the school district at the negotiating table.
MOTION - it was m/s STROHMAN/KAY to Sign the Termination and Settlement Agreement with Escalon Unified School District Purchase of the City's Interest of the Pool Facilities Located at Escalon High School for the 2000 Swimming Pool Facilities Agreement between the City of Escalon and the Escalon Unified School District and Authorize the City Manager to Execute the Agreement. Motion carried 4-1 (Nay - Engle). MINUTE ORDER 71-25.
8. City of Escalon 10-Year California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS) Paydown Plan
FDRHA Bickner outlined a plan to paydown the City's $6.6M unfunded PERS liability in 10-years. The concept was previously approved by Council during the budget adoption process and this report was to provide the details and to solidify and memorialize the 10-year approach.
Public Comment Opened at 10:24 pm
None
Public Comment Closed at 10:24 pm
MOTION - it was m/s by KAY/STROHMAN to Approve the CalPERS Paydown Plan. Motion carried 5-0. MINUTE ORDER 72-25.
COUNCIL COMMUNICATION
Councilmember Kay provided an update on a recent meeting with Senator McNeary, discussing SB24, which would prevent large utility providers from blocking a municipality from taking over utility service, a measure that would support SSJID's efforts to overtake PG&E service. He also commented on the first EDC meeting, noting it went very well and expressed appreciation to the three community members who participated, and are eager to engage with the community. He thanked the Lions Club for hosting a successful car show during the past weekend, mentioning how much he enjoyed attending.
Lastly, he sought consensus from the Council to explore the possibility of a bond initiative as a future funding option. The idea received support from Councilmember Stroman and Mayor Hagan.
Councilmember Engle noted that the car show went very well and had strong community participation. He also sought support from the Council to raise recreation fees and make related adjustments, an idea supported by Mayor Hagan and Councilmember Kay.
Mayor Pro Tem Walker remarked that she appreciated the productive discussions regarding the swimming pool and skatepark. She expressed appreciation that these items are being resolved and moving forward for the benefit of the community. She thanked FDHRA Bickner for her hard work in creating a long-term plan to support the City. She also expressed pride in the town, Council, and staff, emphasizing the importance of supporting freedom of speech and encouraging respectful dialogue, even when disagreements arise.
Councilmember Strohman expressed that he was pleased with the recent meeting with Senator McNeary as well. He acknowledged that the prior week had been challenging, emphasizing that, as community members participating in the democratic process, it is important to promote political discourse and have open, candid discussions—-even when opinions differ. He stated that political violence is never acceptable and that the best way to honor everyone is to recognize differing viewpoints while respecting decisions made for the benefit of the community. He added that the City of Escalon is fortunate to be able to disagree yet still find ways to work together.
Mayor Hagan noted that everything he intended to say—or hadn't thought to say—had been covered, and with that, he wished everyone a great evening.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, Mayor Hagan adjourned the meeting at approximately 10:36 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
muhele Antes
Michele Bates, Deputy City Clerk