ESCALON MINUTES
CALIFORNIA CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ESCALON
MEETING OF MARCH 16, 2026
City Council Chambers, 2060 McHenry Avenue - 7:00 P.M.
INCORPORATED MARCH 12,1957
Beginning Resolution No. 12-26
Beginning Ordinance No. 602
Beginning Minute Order No. 15-26
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) Frank Splendorio, Legal Counsel
Michele Bates, Deputy City Clerk
PRESENTATIONS
1. Presentation of 2025 Rookie of the Year, Officer Brandon Gunter Chief Hardgraves recognized Officer Brandon Gunter as the 2025 Rookie Officer of the Year.
2. Presentation of 2025 Officer of the Year, Officer Abe Palomino Chief Hardgraves recognized Officer Abraham Palomino, for the second year in a row, as the 2025 Officer of the Year.
Councilmembers expressed their appreciation and thanked both officers for their dedicated service and commitment to keeping the community safe.
3. Municipal Water 101 Presentation
PWS Collins provided a Municipal Water 101 presentation as part of the City's overall effort to provide information to the Council and community. The presentation included information on the City's groundwater wells, their condition, annual testing, how and where water is sourced, and the role of each well in serving the community.
Councilmember Engle inquired about monitoring wells and the condition of the area's aquifer water quantity and quality. PWS Collins shared at this time there is no imminent threat to the aquifers, but that state regulations continue to increase which could pose challenges to pulling groundwater. The cost of the proposed surface water conveyance project was discussed (~$14 million) in relation to cost of new wells (~$3.5 million).
Mayor Pro Tem Walker inquired about the number of area cities that rely solely on groundwater to which PWS Collins indicated that he would research and report back.
4. Quarterly Major Infrastructure Projects Update
CM French provided a status update on the City's two major infrastructure projects-the Surface Water Conveyance Project and the Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrade Project. He confirmed that the last water rate increase (2018) did not allocate funds to the Surface Water project, but the study indicated that the following rate increase (2023) should. The 2023 rate increase was never implemented and current water rates remain at 2023 levels. Council inquired about the City's ability to maintain the existing water infrastructure with the current water rates to which FDHRA Bickner confirmed the City has sufficient funds for typical repairs. CM French shared that the City is exploring an option to generate water revenue utilizing the City's surface water allocation, which can help fund the project.
CM French reported that the City had devised an approach to phase the large ($4OM) wastewater treatment plant upgrade project, and were finalizing the details of phase 1 and working with industry to fund this phase.
Construction on Phase I could start as soon as early 2027.
Public Comment Opened at 7:44 p.m.
None
Public Comment Closed at 7:44 p.m.
CONSENT CALENDAR
5. Approve the Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting on March 2, 2026
6. Approve the Register of Demands - March 9, 2026 in the Amount of $331,143.59
7. Waive the Second Reading and Adopt Ordinance No. XXX 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
Councilmember Engle recused himself from Item 7 due to personal matter and will only vote to Items 5 and 6 MOTION - it was m/s by STROHMAN/KAY to Approve the Consent Calendar as Presented for Items 5 and
6. Motion carried 5-0 MINUTE ORDER 15-26. For Item 7, Motion carried 4-0-1 (Engle Recused).
MINUTE ORDER 16-26
STAFF COMMUNICATIONS & UPDATES
8. February Updates
a. Treasurer's Report
b. Police Department Report
C. Animal Control Report
d. Recreation Report
e. Community Center Report
f. Development Services Report
g. Public Works Report
h. Building Department
i. Water Department Report
j. Waste Water Treatment Plant Report
k. City Manager's Report (Verbal)
DCSM Barber reported a successful opening day for baseball and softball and noted that registration is now open for Adult Softball. Following up on a prior question from Council, her reported that the City's current recreation sports photographer is local, from Valley Springs. The Council inquired whether background checks or live scans should be conducted for companies that the city uses.
DCSM Barber shared that the monthly report would include information on the Community Center rentals. He also noted that the next Economic Development meeting (March 24) is primarily to review the first round of business grants applications. He then noted that Escalon businesses were among the top recipients of the Countywide Spark Grants, in which the community received $85,000 toward utility bills.
Mayor Hagan, Councilmembers Kay and Strohman commended DCSM Barber on the great work he has done in the short time he has been with the City.
FDHRA Bickner provided the Treasurer's report, including the status of Measure P revenue, investments, and noted that the quarterly report will be presented next month.
Chief Hardgraves reported that he and Officer Zambrana attended a recruitment event at the Delta Academy and have received applications, with a new officer expected to be sworn in at an April meeting. He also updated the Council on a burglary at the Rite Aid building, which is under investigation, and on an abandoned dog case, where the owner has been identified and criminal charges will be filed with the District Attorney.
Councilmember Kay asked about the recent swatting incident. Chief Hardgraves responded that the investigation is ongoing with promising leads.
PWS Collins praised Chief Water Operator, Matt Morgan, for his excellent work and expressed appreciation for all he has done. He also acknowledged his staff's outstanding support during the Every 15 Minutes program at Escalon High School.
MATTERS PRESENTED FROM THE AUDIENCE
None
PUBLIC HEARINGS
9. Consider Adopting Resolution XX-26 Approving an Expenditure Plan for the City of Escalon's Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program
10. Consider Adopting Resolution XX-26 Approving an Expenditure Plan for the City of Escalon's Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Home Investment Partnership Act (HOME) Program DCSM Barber explained, based on a concern raised last year, how residents and organizations were informed of these grant opportunities this year. He noted that over the past 15 years, the City has been unable to use approximately $500,000 in funds from the County due to the City not having qualifying areas (economically disadvantaged). This year, however, the City does have a qualifying area and has identified a project. The City further requested the usable funds from the past 15 years.
Councilmember Strohman asked whether the housing program is limited to Escalon residents which DCSM Barber confirmed. Councilmember Strohman also inquired about how the mobile farmers market is advertised and emphasized the importance of increasing visibility and ensuring residents have a better understanding of the programs. DCSM Barber indicated that the receiving organization was responsible for notification of the program, but that the City would coordinate with them to get the word out further.
Public Comment Opened at 8:12 p.m.
None
Public Comment Closed at 8:12 p.m.
MOTION - it was m/s STROHMAN/KAY to Approve Items 9 and 10 as presented. Motion carried 5-0.
MINUTE ORDER 17-26
ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
11. Introduce and Discuss of Proposed Fees for Adult Softball and the Newly Added Adult Soccer Program
DCSM Barber indicated that based on Council direction to review cost recovery efforts and to ensure fiscal stability, and based on conversations by the Escalon Recreation Commission, this item is to re-evaluate the popular adult softball program fees, and consider adding an adult soccer program, and discuss its associated fee.
The report indicates that a $340,000 shortfall exists between revenues and expenses in the recreation sports program, including park maintenance. Youth sports fees remain low by policy. Adult sports softball fees are currently $525 per team, which per the analysis is below the estimated direct cost of $589 per team, not including park maintenance. The Recreation Commission recommended raising the fee several hundred dollars to be more in line with regional rates, to express the value of the program, and ensure adult programs contribute more fairly to expenses.
Mayor Hagan suggested surveying teams on the rate increase before implementing.
Councilmember Strohman suggested expanding teams to increase participation and to help offset costs. It was noted that with limited field space there is limit to the number of teams that can be accommodated.
Councilmember Kay emphasized that adult recreation programs are currently operating at a loss and stated that fees should be adjusted so participants-not taxpayers-cover the costs, especially with the addition of new programs like adult soccer.
Councilmember Engle supported the Recreation Commission's recommendation, highlighting that a $850 team fee about $55 per player, roughly $20 more per person-reduces the City's financial loss and aligns adult fees with youth program fees. He emphasized that adults should not pay less than youth and preferred the Council not override the recommendation. Mayor Hagan expressed no opposition but raised concerns about the timing, and in particular of the adult soccer rate.
Mayor Pro Tem Walker supported a $589 fee for adult leagues, reflecting City costs. Councilmember Engle highlighted that adult sports cause more field wear and suggested reviewing field usage by sport.
Councilmember Strohman favored maintaining 2026 fees while surveying adult soccer and softball participants on what they're willing to pay. Mayor Hagan suggested charging participants the direct cost for now while allowing time to evaluate a full fee structure next year based on the Recreation Commission's recommendation.
Councilmember Kay emphasized the affordability, calculating the cost at $6.87 per game and comparing it favorably to other activities like movies or bowling, supporting the $850.00 fee and stating taxpayers should not subsidize participant costs.
Public Comment Opened at 8:33 p.m.
Resident Sherry Hill expressed concern that the Council is micro-managing the Recreation Commission, and that starting a fee low, then increasing it after one year may lead to public pushback.
Mayor Pro Tem Walker clarified that while the Recreation Commission develops programs and policies, it has not traditionally been responsible for setting fees, which are determined by the Council.
Resident Zach Hogan shared that based on his experience in the adult softball program, $850 fee would not deter participation, emphasizing the program's popularity and suggesting expansion to allow more teams.
Councilmember Strohman asked whether it mattered that surrounding cities may charge less than Escalon's proposed $850 fee, and Mr. Hogan responded that it would not, emphasizing that players prefer staying local where the environment is safe and enjoyable.
Resident Stephanie Hogan noted that program comparisons should consider differences in services, such as umpiring, and that safety and quality make Escalon distinct from nearby cities. She added that the league attracts many out-of-town participants and remains in high demand regardless of cost, and briefly addressed the introduction of adult soccer as a new program.
Public Comment Closed at 8:40 p.m.
MOTION - it was m/s STROHMAN/WALKER to Table the Discussion of Agenda Item 11. Motion carried 3-2 (Nays - Kay and Engle). MINUTE ORDER 18-26
CM French noted timing challenges with setting fees for the upcoming adult soccer registration, which could be delayed if additional steps are taken before the public hearing.
City Attorney Splendorio advised that any Councilmember in the majority could reconsider their vote based on the new information, and Mayor Hagan was informed of this option upon returning to the Council.
DCSM Barber explained that delaying soccer registration is possible but not ideal, and while a one-month delay is reasonable, it was not part of the original plan. Mayor Hagan stated the discussion was a moot point, chose not to change his vote, and recused himself again.
DCSM Barber explained the goal of opening registration before the end of the school year was to ensure better participation, noting concerns that a summer launch could reduce visibility for the new program.
12. Memorandum of Understanding for Work at Hogan-Ennis Community Park Prior to discussion, Mayor Hagan recused himself from the matter due to his involvement with Escalon Strong.
CM French presented the staff report, explaining that volunteers and community members have coordinated to help develop new sports fields in the Hogan Park expansion area, and that the item formalizes the partnership between the City and Escalon Strong. City Attorney Splendorio noted the MOU is straightforward and ensures the City is adequately protected as the facility owner.
Mayor Pro Tem Walker asked about the timeline. CM French responded that work is to begin as soon as possible (in the coming days).
Public Comment Opened at 9:04 p.m.
Resident Zach Hogan stated that once the MOU is signed, work will begin immediately, with many volunteers including experienced field builders and farmers donating equipment-contributing to create the new fields.
Councilmember Engle thanked Zach Hogan for his efforts and praised the project's community benefits, noting how quickly volunteers stepped forward. Councilmember Kay also expressed appreciation, highlighting it as a great example of the community coming together for Escalon.
Councilmember Strohman reiterated his appreciation and asked about additional amenities. Mr. Hogan responded that the focus is on sod, fencing, and backstops, noting that experienced volunteers and a private engineer from Ripon are ensuring proper construction.
Strohman also asked about sidewalks and ADA compliance; Hogan said sidewalks haven't been planned yet but will be addressed later, acknowledging the concern.
Public Comment Closed at 9:15 p.m.
MOTION - it was m/s by STROHMAN/ENGLE to Approve the MOU Between Escalon Strong and the City of Escalon for the Hogan Park Expansion Project. Motion carried 4-0-1 (recused - Hagan). MINUTE ORDER 19-26
COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS
Councilmember Kay requested Council consensus to direct staff to review the City's permitting fees, citing a concern that they may be determinantal to the City's economic development efforts, receiving support from Councilmember Strohman, Mayor Hagan, and Mayor Pro Tem Walker. He also proposed exploring owl boxes in parks to address the gopher problem and asked staff for a cost analysis, which was supported by Mayor Pro Tem Walker and Councilmember Strohman.
Councilmember Strohman congratulated Officers Palomino and Gunter on their awards and expressed appreciation for the police department, PWS Collins' water presentation, and City staff. He also thanked residents Zach and Stephanie Hogan for their significant contributions and community involvement, noting the City is fortunate for their dedication.
Councilmember Engle highlighted the success of the Lions Club's corned beef and cabbage dinner and noted that the club honored three community members Marilyn Salvin, Jeff Miller, and Rein Doornenbal— with the Melvin Jones Award, the organization's highest recognition.
Mayor Pro Tem Walker emphasized her focus on citizens' health and safety and improving Escalon for business and recreation. She praised the success of Recreation baseball and softball Opening Day, encouraged community members to volunteer pitching coaching for the girls, and congratulated Officers Palomino and Gunter on their awards.
Mayor Hagan echoed Councilmember Stroman's appreciation for Zach and Stephanie Hogan and City staff.
He requested consensus to revisit the noise ordinance, which was supported by Councilmember Kay and Mayor Pro Tem Walker, and thanked the Lions Club for their community contributions, encouraging public involvement.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, Mayor Hagan adjourned the meeting at approximately 9:36 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
nihilebates
Michele Bates, Deputy City Clerk