Tina Hernandez, Mayor
Araceli Ochoa, Mayor Pro Tem
Gregorio Gomez, Council Member
Paul Boyer, Council Member
Armando Hinojosa, Council Member
Minutes
Farmersville City Council
Regular Meeting
Monday, January 13, 2025 6:00 PM
Meeting held in Civic Center Council Chambers – 909 W. Visalia Road Farmersville, California Pending no technical difficulties, the City Council meeting will also be streamed (for observation only) via Zoom and accessed as follows:
Please dial 1-669-900-6833
Meeting ID: 840 0178 7738
Password: 133103
1. Call to Order: 6:00pm
2. Roll Call:
Title
Status
Arrived
Mayor Hernandez
Present
6:00pm
Mayor Pro Tem Ochoa
Present
6:00pm
Council Member Gomez
Present
6:00pm
Council Member Boyer
Present
6:00pm
Council Member Hinojosa
Present
6:00pm
3. Invocation: Mayor Hernandez
4. Pledge of Allegiance: Mayor Hernandez
5. Public Comment:
Mr. Lemke expressed his concerns regarding public records requests. He would like to also see more homes for low-income individuals.
Alice Lopez, a resident of Farmersville expressed concern over customers can smoking outside of the smoke shop by Dollar Tree. She would also like to see trash cans placed at Jennings Park and a water fountain along with a pet dish. City Manager noted that Jennings Park was being redone and Ms. Lopez would be included in the planning process.
Provides an opportunity for members of the public to address the City Council on items of interest to the public within the Council’s jurisdiction and which are not already on the agenda this evening. It is the policy of the Council not to answer questions impromptu. Concerns or complaints will be referred to the City Manager’s office. Speakers should limit their comments to not more than two (2) minutes. No more than twenty (20) total minutes will be allowed for Public Comment. For items which are on the agenda this evening, members of the public will be provided an opportunity to address the council as each item is brought up for discussion. Comments are to be addressed to the Council as a body and not to any individual Council Member.
6. Presentations:
Chief Brock introduced and congratulated newly promoted Sergeant, Diego Corona, whose dedication, leadership, and commitment to serving our community have earned this well-deserved promotion.
Recess taken 6:13pm to 6:18pm
7. Consent Agenda:
Under a CONSENT AGENDA category, a recommended course of action for each item is made. Any Council Member or Member of the Public may remove any item from the CONSENT AGENDA in order to discuss and/or change the recommended course of action, and the Council can approve the remainder of the CONSENT AGENDA.
Authorization to waive full reading of ordinances and resolutions and to identify by title only.
Recommend that the City Council approve the full reading of all ordinances and resolutions be waived and to identify by title only.
Minutes of Regular City Council Meeting of December 16, 2024, December 23, 2024 and December 30, 2024 Recommend approval of minutes.
Documents: Draft Action Minutes of December 16, 2024
December 23, 2024
December 30, 2024
Finance Update for December 2024: Warrant Register and Investment Summary Recommend that the City Council:
Approve the Warrant Register as presented for the period. This reporting period represents warrants issued for the current Fiscal Year (2023/2024); and Accept the Investment Summary as presented for the period. This reporting period represents investment summary for the previous month.
Documents: November 2024 Warrant Register
Adopt Ordinance 527 amending Ordinance No. 319 (as amended) relating to the classification of the zone of particular parcels of real property. (Second, reading Eagle Meadows approval).
Recommend approval of Ordinance 527.
Documents: Ordinance 527
Adoption of the updated salary schedule for Fiscal Year 2024-25 by Resolution 2025-001.
Documents: Salary Schedule
Resolution 2025-001
Council Action: It was moved by Councilmember Hinojosa, seconded by Councilmember Boyer, and unanimously approved of items 7A, 7B, 7D, and 7E.
Consent Item 7C abstained by Councilmember Boyer.
8. A. Self Help Enterprises Presentation and Status. Presentation and Adoption of Resolution 2025-002 authorizing the submittal of a 5-year plan amendment application, acceptance and appropriation of Permanent local housing allocation (PLHA) grant funds from the State of California in the estimated amount of $86,463 for year (CY 2022) and $64,700 for year 5 (CY 2023) Recommend that the Council approve Resolution 2025-002.
Documents: Resolution 2025-002
Public Hearing was opened at 6:33pm and closed at 6:33pm.
Council Action: It was moved by Councilmember Hinojosa, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Ochoa, Councilmember Boyer abstained. Carried to approve the item as presented with a 4-0 vote.
B Transit Services- Information Item
City Manager Michael Schulte reviewed the current situation regarding the transit center, emphasizing that while the center was originally developed with transit services in mind, no established services were in place from the outset. He recognizes this challenge, and efforts have been underway to align operations with the intended purpose of the facility. Additionally, a meeting is being scheduled with stakeholders, including Visalia Transit, TCRTA and City staff, to discuss operational improvements and strategies to enhance transit services at the center. Additionally, noted was that Transit Services to Visalia Transit to the City have been exceptional.
Discussion took place.
C. Appointment of City Treasurer- Action Item
This item has been tabled for further consideration.
D. Visalia Road Traffic Controls- (Discussion Item)
City Manager Michael Schulte has expressed concerns about the growing traffic issues on Visalia Road. First, there are currently no substantial traffic controls in place along Visalia Road, aside from a single lit crosswalk stretching across Visalia Road before Farmersville Blvd. stop light. Second, access to both Doe and Snowden Schools has become problematic, with vehicles being directed to make U-turns after dropping off students, causing congestion. Third, the new bus yard being located near Farmersville Boulevard is expected to further complicate traffic flow. Finally, the Eagle Meadows development plans to pull permits this year for street work and 212 housing units, which will place additional strain on the area. Mr. Schulte emphasized that it is evident action must be taken promptly to slow traffic and address safety concerns.
Discussion took place.
Strategic Planning- Tulare County Economic Forecast
(Discussion Item)
This item has been tabled until January 27, 2024, the Council meeting.
City Manager Contract- Action Item
Council Action: It was moved by Councilmember Hinojosa, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Ochoa, carried to approve the item as presented with a 5-0 vote.
Holiday Vendor Permits "Discuss the process, requirements, and potential updates related to vendor permits." City Manager Michael Schulte discussed a new process for Holiday Vendor Permits, specifically for Valentine's Day and Mother's Day. This agenda item will be presented for approval at the meeting on January 27, 2025.
9. Council Reports
A. City Council Updates and Committee Reports
Councilmember Hinojosa shared the following updates and requests:
Freedom Field and Sequioa Gateway Park: He would like to see additional lighting installed at these locations.
Veterans Park: He noted that the park is in good condition.
Parking Sign Issue: A "No Parking" sign has been thrown into the backyard of the pink house for sale east of Vista in Farmersville. He requested that Public Works retrieve the sign.
Streetlight Maintenance: A streetlight is out at West Front Street and Ventura. He requested that it be addressed.
Public Works Director Steven Thompson responded that he would inspect the streetlight and mentioned contacting Southern California Edison (SCE) last week regarding three other lights.
Councilmember Boyer requested an update on the grant received for the 198 project. He would like clarification on the project’s status, the expected completion date, and whether any contingency funds remain. Next, he echoed the compliments given to the Public Works staff for their excellent work, particularly at Veterans Park. He stated, *“The enhancements to the Veterans Memorial are also commendable. It looks much better and will be a great feature for Memorial Day.” Lastly, he expressed concerns regarding the City’s preparation for emergencies.
Councilmember Gomez thanked the Police Chief for a recent community post, noting that it was well-received and appreciated. He also expressed concerns about a new law requiring the curbs around sidewalks to be painted red this year. He also inquired if any of our Firefighters were helping with the fires in LA.
Councilmember Ochoa thanked the Police Chief for the recent press release on immigration. She informed the Council about an upcoming workshop at the College of the Sequoias (COS) in Visalia, which will review immigration matters and address questions. Ms. Ochoa suggested ordering "Red Cards: Know Your Rights" to distribute to residents. She reported attending a Tulare County Board of Supervisors meeting where several attendees spoke positively about Farmersville. She is also working on establishing a partnership with Habitat for Humanity. Additionally, Ms. Ochoa has been visiting homeless encampments in Farmersville to assess needs, such as food, clothing, and other resources. She noted that Kaweah Health is currently assisting some individuals in the encampments. Ms. Ochoa is planning a meeting over lunch with Councilmember Liz Wyn to discuss ideas and initiatives. She informed the Council about the Annual Tulare-Kings Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Gala, scheduled for Friday, January 17, at the Visalia Convention Center. She emphasized the importance of attending the event to raise Farmersville's profile. Lastly the Homeless Task Force will be meeting on January 15, 2025.
Mayor Hernandez requested the removal of equipment stored in the fenced area at Veterans Park. The Public Works Supervisor informed the Council that a process is required to abandon the well in that area and stated that he would begin working on it. City Manager Michael Schulte asked the Council if they would like a lighted sign to be installed at that location. Mayor Hernandez also inquired about the installation of American flags on the light poles along Farmersville Boulevard.
Staff Communications:
City Manager Michael Schulte informed the Council that he is collaborating with the high school to establish the Student Council Program. He also stated that he will prepare a new Request for Proposals (RFP) for the attorney selection process. Mr. Schulte announced that Finance Director Steve Huntley has resigned. Additionally, he reported that the Administrative Department is working with a Munis professional to assist with restructuring efforts within the department. Lastly, he informed the Council that he will be attending the immigration seminar at the College of the Sequoias on Thursday evening.
City Engineer Elsa Mejia provided an update on current projects:
The Municipal Code Book has been updated and is under review.
The 2025 Street Improvements project is in its final review phase, with construction expected to begin this summer.
The design for the Road 168 roundabout has not yet started, as they are still awaiting the grant approval.
The Public Works Supervisor provided an update on current projects:
Public Works employees now have new uniforms.
The team has been repairing a fence at the Mobile Home Park.
They recently completed work at Veterans Park.
Landscaping assistance was provided at the Boys and Girls Club.
Preparations are underway for the baseball fields to ensure they are ready for the upcoming baseball season.
Work at Jennings Park is ongoing, with plans for a gazebo, playset, new sign, and general cleanup.
Chief Thomas gave a brief Fire Station update. He also informed the Council that the Type 6 will be arriving in late February. Two firefighters are currently in HazMat training.
Chief Brock informed the Council that he had made a public post addressing recent immigration concerns. He clarified that the Farmersville Police Department does not participate in matters related to immigration enforcement, as the Federal enforcement agencies have jurisdiction over immigration and deportations.
City Planner Karl Schoettler outlined his current projects:
Two major developments, Sierra Woods and Fagundes, will be presented to the Council soon.
The Cherry Medical Clinic project has been approved.
Gardenia Courtyards is revisiting the Council with a site plan change.
Work is ongoing on the General Plan Update.
The Zoning Ordinance Update is currently under review with the City Manager.
A. Staff Updates and Reports
1. Review Public Works written report.
11. Future Agenda Items:
Description
Responsible Party
Agenda Date
Amend Ordinance- Temporary Outdoor Use Permit & Code
City Manager
Jan. 2025
Pre-Approved ADU Plans and ADU Flyer
City Manager
Jan. 27, 2025
Community Garden
City Manager
TBD
Council Handbook Update
City Manager
Nov. 2024
12. Adjournment to Closed Session:
Mayor Hernandez adjourned to closed session 8:25pm.
CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL
Litigation 54956.9(d)(1)
Benavides
Labor Negotiations 54957.6
All-MOU’s
Personnel Matters 54957
Steven Huntley
Mayor Hernandez reconvened to open session at 9:37 pm with nothing to report.
Respectfully submitted
Rochelle Giovani, City Clerk