MINUTES
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ESCALON
MEETING OF JANUARY 20, 2026
City Council Chambers, 2060 McHenry Avenue -7:00 P.M.
Beginning Resolution No. 01-26
Beginning Ordinance No. 600
Beginning Minute Order No. 01-26
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
Trevin Barber, Development and Community Services Manager (DCSM) Andreas Booher, Legal Counsel
Michele Bates, Deputy City Clerk
PRESENTATIONS
Measure P Advisory Committee Presentation
Committee members Gabriella Vargas and Ed Alves presented the Measure P Advisory Committee Biannual Report. They recommended a list of potential efforts or projects to be funded through Measure P dollars.
The Mayor thanked the committee for their time and presentation, noting that many of the issues raised were actively being discussed.
Councilmember Strohman inquired regarding the frequency of the committee’s meetings and number of residents contacted. Councilmember Strohman encouraged increased community participation in the recommendations or information in the presentations indicating community involvement.
Councilmember Engle added that his vision was for the committee members to engage the community in one-on-one or small group basis. He expressed appreciation for the committee’s efforts and encouraged them to continue their work.
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. Approve the Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting on December 15, 2025
2. Approve the Register of Demands – January 12, 2026 in the Amount of $981,776.73
3. Consider Adopting a Resolution Approving the Final Parcel Map for Application No. 25-811 for Property Located at 1524 and 1530 Catherine Way (APNs 247-150-050-000 and 247-150- 060-000) and Authorizing the City Manager to Sign the Final Map and Related Documents
4. Consider Final Acceptance of the 2025 Pavement Restoration Project; Approve an Increase to the Contract Amount; and Authorize the Deputy City Clerk to File the Notice of Completion
5. Consider Awarding the State Route 120 and BNSF Railroad Striping Modifications Project to Dirt Dynasty, Inc. in an Amount Not to Exceed $31,800.00 Including Contingency Authority MOTION - it was m/s STROHMAN/KAY to Approve the Consent Calendar as Presented.
Motion Carried 5-0. MINUTE ORDER 01-26
STAFF COMMUNICATIONS
6. December 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)
DCSM Barber highlighted indicated that the City’s economic development efforts are now shifting from planning to implementation. He noted staff assisted approximately 10 local businesses with County Spark Grant applications, potentially bringing $50,000 to the community.
FDHRA Bickner presented the Quarter 2 financial reports, noting the budget continues to track against the approved version with revenues trending up.
Chief Hardgraves provided an update to a Council request, indicating that retrofitting current police vehicles with ballistic panels is cost-prohibitive, and that moving forward the Department will consider installing armor in each new vehicle purchased. He then reported that Officer Gunter led the Department in arrests (8) and Officer Escalante led in citations (13). Council requested the Department monitor speeding on Coley Avenue and at the high school/Heritage Church crosswalk.
PWS Collins updated Council on prior requests, noting that Public Works is moving to a new vendor to finalize repairs to the shade structure at the park and ride lot on Main Street. Construction on Main Street project is progressing, and he noted that the grading and hydroseeding of the park area is scheduled to begin January 26.
CM French shared the City’s effort to meet with, inform, and be present in the community with a new event called Coffee with City Hall on January 23. He then provided updates on the removal of the bus stop Council requested to remove, the City’s economic development based code enforcement efforts to improve the City’s commercial corridors, and the Westwood Prop 218 effort to add swings and a basketball court to Swanson park. He noted 13 proposals were received for the City’s Economic Development Strategic Plan and that the preferred firm would likely be selected in March.
Public Comment Opened at 8:32 p.m.
Resident Gabriella Vargas asked for an update on safety improvements near El Portal Middle School. PWS Collins stated he would provide an update at a coming meeting.
Resident Ed Alves inquired about declining revenues to which FDHRA Bickner stated that increased electric vehicle use is reducing fuel consumption and impacting a sales tax source.
Public Comment Closed at 8:38 p.m.
MATTERS PRESENTED BY THE AUDIENCE
Resident Kimberly Brouillard stated that she believed her family should be eligible for the In-District fee for Escalon recreational sports.
The Council directed City staff, in this case, to apply the in district rate and inquired if the fee policy should be returned to Council for further clarification.
Resident Sherry Hill stated that the Measure P Advisory Committee report was good information and encouraged the Council to carefully consider their recommendations and to avoid micromanaging the Committee.
Resident Gabriella Vargas raised concerns about speeding in the alley near First and James/Pioneer Streets and requested monitoring and possible traffic deterrents.
PUBLIC HEARING
7. Consider Ordinance Restricting Use of Fluoride in City Water Treatment Processes and Restricting Acceptance of Water from Outside Source Treated with Fluoride, Based on Agenda Item Request from Mayor Hagan
CM French presented the staff report noting that if approved, the Ordinance would require a public hearing be held any time that the City moved forward with a new additive in the City’s water system, or any time that a City partner added something to their water.
Public Comment Opened at 9:06 p.m.
Dr. Elizabeth Demichelis spoke in support of water fluoridation, citing its benefits in preventing tooth decay, especially for vulnerable populations, and provided research materials to Council.
Pam Killingsworth, a dental hygienist, supported water fluoridation, citing high local dental decay rates, its effectiveness in reducing tooth decay, and stating the decision should be made by an informed public.
Public Comment Closed at 9:20 p.m.
Mayor Hagan thanked the speakers and appreciated their point of view, stating his belief that matters such as these should be discussed openly and transparently and brought before the community prior to any actions by the government. Councilmember Kay clarified that the intent is to ensure public input is provided when the public water is affected.
PWS Collins stated that the State highly regulates the city’s water and water operations.
Councilmember Strohman expressed that with no deadline for a decision, further time to review the research should be provided and requested the item tabled for one meeting; Mayor Hagan expressed no objection.
Councilmember Engle stated that both sides appear to agree that an informed population should weigh in on new additives to the City’s water and that this is the purpose of the Ordinance, not specifically to discuss the merits or detriments of Fluoride.
Mayor Pro Tem Walker expressed that these choices should be personal and not dictated to all by the government.
Public Comment Re-Opened at 9:35 p.m.
Resident Sherry Hill confirmed that the ordinance is intended only to ensure public input on any future additives, questioning why discussion is occurring on matters not currently under consideration.
Public Comment Closed at 9:38 p.m.
Direction was given by Council to staff to revise the wording of the ordinance and bring it back to Council.
MOTION: it was m/s KAY/HAGAN to Introduce and Waive the First Reading of Ordinance Number XXX Adding Chapter XX Additives to Public Water Supply to Title 8 Health and Safety of the Escalon Municipal Code Restricting Use of Fluoride in City Water Treatment Processes and Restricting Acceptance of Water from Outside Source Treated with Fluoride with the Stipulations Made to Remove All Direction Regarding Fluoride and Mark This as Additives and Any Additive That is Not Currently Being Put In Our Water. Motion carried 4-1-0 (Engle). MINUTE ORDER 02-26.
ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
8. Resolution Increasing the Construction Contract Amount for the Well No. 1A Improvement Project Awarded to Conco-West, Inc. to $3,682.415 and Aligning the Contract Amount with the Updated DWSRF Loan Authorization Approved on November 6, 2023 DCSM Barber presented the staff report noting that this item is seeking Council to amend the contract amount with Conco-West to the previously approved DWSRF loan authorization amount, and that Council had previously been aware of the improvements that lead to the higher contract amount, including switching to MID power, and adding a chlorinator.
Public Comments Opened at 9:45 p.m.
None
Public Comment Closed at 9:45 p.m.
MOTION – it was m/s by STROHMAN/KAY to Adopt Resolution XX-26 Increasing the Construction Contract Amount for the Well 1A Improvement Project Awarded to Conco-West, Inc. on September 5, 2023 Amending the Not to Exceed Amount from $2,918,270.00 to $2,382,415.00 Consistent with the Updated Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Financing Authorization Approved by the City Council on November 6, 2023. Motion carried 5-0. MINUTE ORDER 03-26
9. Agenda Item Request to Consider City Council Term Limits and Further Consider City Council Compensation
CM French presented the staff report, providing an overview of council compensation and term limits from surrounding municipalities.
Councilmember Engle thanked staff for the information and expressed support for term limits for elected positions, stating that an evolving city requires evolving points of view and that limiting the length of service helps ensure fresh perspectives. He suggested a maximum of three (3) terms.
Mayor Pro Tem Walker stated that while she initially supported the idea of term limits, she has reconsidered after noting there have been three elections in recent times in which candidates have ran unopposed. She expressed concern that if there are not enough individuals willing to run for office, term limits could prevent experienced candidates from serving again and limit voter choice.
Councilmember Engle stated that term limits could actually encourage more candidates to run by creating turnover and eliminating a fear of running against a long time elected.
Councilmember Strohman confirmed that term limits would require voter approval and expressed support, noting the need for clear structure.
Councilmember Kay stated that while he supports term limits at the federal and state levels, he does not support them for a city with a population of approximately 7,500. He expressed concern that term limits in a community of this size could limit the pool of qualified candidates and result in individuals serving who may be less interested or engaged. He noted that the City has benefited from past and current Councilmembers, including individuals who served more than 20 years and made significant positive contributions.
Councilmember Strohman shared that the consensus from his informal polling of past councilmembers was that if they couldn’t accomplish what they wanted to in twelve years, then it was time to move on.
Public Comment Opened at 10:05
Former Councilmember Gary Haskin opposed term limits, concerned over limiting voter choice, that elections hold all accountable, and the benefits of the experience gained by long-serving Councilmembers.
Resident Sherry Hill stated that term limits are not appropriate for a small community like Escalon, as they could discourage participation, and emphasized that voters should decide who is elected.
Resident Gabriella Vargas opposed term limits in a small town, emphasized voter choice and the need for experience. She then stated that Council compensation should only be considered if other compensation was reduced to offset.
Resident Pam Killingsworth commented that she appreciates the knowledge and experience of long-serving Councilmembers, particularly Mr. Ed Alves, noting that his tenure allowed him to effectively work with outside entities and gain a deeper understanding of city matters.
Public Comment Closed at 10:16 p.m.
Councilmember Strohman noted that he ran for Council as a commitment to the community, not for the stipend. There was general consensus among the Councilmembers.
Councilmember Engle noted that the Council stipend has not changed since 1986. He emphasized the time commitment required to serve in this capacity and suggested that a modest increase would better reflect the effort involved and potentially encourage greater participation by future candidates.
Public Comment Opened at 10:24 p.m.
Resident Gary Haskin cautioned against candidates motivated by compensation but stated support for a modest stipend increase to reflect the extent of Council service.
Resident Sherry Hill supported a modest compensation increase but stated health benefits are unnecessary for Council service.
Public Comment Closed at 10:35 p.m.
Mayor Pro Tem Walker commented that the current pay is appropriate for a city of Escalon’s size.
Ultimately, no motion was made to advance the matter.
10. Agenda Request to Discuss Rental Policy and Rental Fees for the Escalon Community Center MOTION: it was m/s STROHMAN/WALKER to table Item 10 for a Future Council Discussion.
Motion carried 5-0. MINUTE ORDER 04-26
11. Consider Adoption of Four Economic Development Resolutions Establishing the 2026 Economic Development Incentive Programs
DCSM Barber presented the staff report outlining the 2026 Economic Development Incentive Program.
The Council appreciated seeing the 2025-2026 Escalon Strategic Plan implemented through this action.
Public Comment Opened 10:41 p.m.
None
Public Comment Closed at 10:41 p.m.
CM French commented that City staff is working with banks and financial institutions in the community to partner on the program.
MOTION: it was m/s by STROHMAN/WALKER to Adopt Four Resolutions to Formally Establish the City’s Economic Development Incentive Programs. First One is XX-25 to Adopt the Economic Development Incentive Framework; Second One is XX-26, Establishing the New Business Grant Program and Adopting the New Business Grant Incentive Policy; Third One is XX-26 Establishing the Business Expansion Grant Program and Adopting the Business Expansion Incentive Policy; the Fourth is Resolution XX-26 is Adopting the Tax Rebate Incentive Policy and Authorizing the City manager to Negotiate Conditional Tax Rebate Agreements. Motion carried 5-0. MINUTE ORDER 05-26
12. Consideration of an Urgency Ordinance Amending Section 17.41.140 of the Escalon Municipal Code Relating to Accessory Dwelling Units and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units to Comply with Recent Changes in State Law, and Finding the Action to be Statutorily Exempt from CEQA under Public Resources Code §21080.17
Prior to the item being presented, Councilmember Engle stated that he intends to build two ADUs in the City of Escalon, which could provide him with financial benefit, and therefore recused himself from the discussion.
DCSM Barber provided the staff report noting that updated state ADU/JADU law went into effect on January 1, 2026, and that by updating the City’s ordinance the City would maintain as much local control over the objective standards for construction of ADU/JADUs as possible. If approved tonight, City staff would bring forward an Ordinance under the traditional noticing and public hearing process in the coming meetings.
Public Comment Opened at 10:41p.m.
None
Public Comment Closed at 10:41 p.m.
MOTION: it was m/s by KAY/STROHMAN to Amend Emergency Ordinance Section 17.41.140 of the Escalon Municipal Code Relating to Accessory Dwelling Units and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units to Comply with Recent Changes in State Law and Finding the Action to be Statutorily Exempt from CEQA Under Public Resources Code 21080.17. Motion carried 4-0-1 (Engl Recused). MINUTE ORDER 06-
26. COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS
Councilmember Kay expressed his appreciation for the discussion items on the agenda and the community’s input and wished everyone a Happy New Year.
Councilmember Strohman thanked Gabriella Vargas and Ed Alves for their Measure P Advisory Committee presentation and clarified that his comments were not intended to come across as abrasive, apologizing if they were perceived that way. He expressed that he looks forward to the next Advisory Committee report and the gathered community input. Councilmember Strohman acknowledged residents’ concerns regarding Measure P funds being allocated prior to the committee’s formation and emphasized that the Council maintains their commitment to transparency, with all decisions made in open forums during Council meetings. He encouraged residents who disagree with any agenda items to attend meetings, speak during public comment, or reach out to Councilmembers privately. He concluded by wishing everyone a happy holiday season and expressed his anticipation for working with the community in 2026.
Mayor Pro Tem Walker thanked Ms. Vargas and Mr. Alves for their presentation. She reminded residents that the City holds an annual budget workshop, noting that no one attended last year’s, and encouraged participation to provide input and ask questions. She highlighted that economic development is a Council goal, which contributes to increased Measure P revenues as well as the City’s overall tax base. Mayor Pro Tem Walker also reminded everyone of the upcoming Coffee with City Staff event at Soul Coffee this Friday.
Mayor Hagan commended DCSM Barber for the excellent work he has accomplished in a short period of time and expressed appreciation for his efforts.
CLOSED SESSION
None
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, Mayor Hagan adjourned the meeting at approximately 10:51 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
____________________________
Michele Bates, Deputy City Clerk