Notice is hereby given that the Farmersville City Council will hold a Regular Meeting on Monday, February 23, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. in person at City Hall located at 909 W. Visalia Rd. in Farmersville California, 93223.
Staff Reports related to items on the agenda are available on the City’s website at https://www.cityoffarmersville-ca.gov/ and available for viewing at City Hall.
CALL TO ORDER SESSION REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING 6:01pm
ROLL CALL Mayor Tina Hernandez
Mayor Pro Tem Araceli Ochoa
Councilmember Greg Gomez
Councilmember Paul Boyer
Councilmember Danny Valdovinos
INVOCATION
Presented by Mayor Hernandez
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Led by Mayor Hernandez
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Approval of agenda with the changes made to the minutes.
Council Action: It was motioned by Councilmember Gomez, seconded by Councilmember Valdovinos and approved with a 5-0 vote.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
The public is invited to comment on any subject under the jurisdiction of the Farmersville City Council. Please note that speakers that wish to comment on a Regular Item or Public Hearing on tonight’s agenda will have an opportunity to speak when public comment for that item is requested by the Mayor. Comments shall be limited to two (2) minutes per person, with twenty (20) minutes for the total comment period, unless otherwise indicated by the Mayor.
The public may also choose to submit a comment before the meeting via email. Public comments received via email will be distributed to the Council prior to the start of the meeting and incorporated into the official minutes; however, they will not be read aloud. Under state law, matters presented under public comment cannot be acted upon by the Council at this time.
Marissa Llamas the resident at 441 N. Stevens expressed frustration with city staff, particularly the City Manager, for not addressing ongoing neighborhood issues despite repeated requests for help. They described disruptive and disrespectful behavior from neighbors, including loud music, multiple vehicles parked on the property, and property damage like shattered windows. The speaker noted that previous attempts to address similar issues, such as actions by a former Fire Chief, were temporary and ineffective. They emphasized the emotional impact on the community, including recent losses, and called for meaningful change and stronger enforcement, as current responses have been slow and inadequate.
Marlena Talamantez, the organizer for the Remnant Church of Visalia informed the Council about her upcoming event on March 28, 2026.
Pete Galindo a member of the Senior Center expressed concerns about recent issues at the Senior Center in Farmersville. He emphasized that he is a long-time volunteer and senior participant, not a staff member or person in charge. He feels like he was wrongly accused and not given the opportunity to respond, despite trying to help maintain and operate the center, including opening the facility and setting up activities. Mr. Galindo noted that communication from staff has been poor, some individuals at the center have caused animosity, and attempts to resolve conflicts have been largely ignored.
Mrs. Galindo a member of the Senior Center has concerns regarding other members being pulled aside to have discussions.
Maribel Cruz account clerk with the City of Farmersville gave a Senior Center update.
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
Proclamation – Ricardo Maldanado
Mayor Hernandez presented Ricardo Maldanado a proclamation to honor his involvement with youth athletics.
Introduction of New Contract City Planner – Derek Chambers Josh McDonnell introduced Derek Chambers.
GRID Alternatives Presentation
Hector Uriarte gave a brief presentation on GRID Alternatives and the solar panel programs available to qualifying residents. The Council supported including informational flyers from GRID Alternatives in utility bills to help inform residents about the program.
Councilmember Boyer pulled consent item 6- adoption of Job Description for the Senior Center for discussion.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Items listed under the Consent Calendar are considered routine and will be enacted by one motion. There will be no separate discussion of these matters unless a request is made and then the item will be removed from the Consent Calendar to be discussed and voted upon by a separate motion.
Approval of February 9, 2026, regular meeting minutes
Approval of Fourth Amendment to Agreement with Hinderliter de Llamas & Associates for Cannabis Management Services Approval of Lease Agreement with the County of Tulare to Operate a Public Library at 623 N. Avery Avenue Approval of City Support for AB 1786 (Best Value Contracting) and Authorization for Mayor to Sign Letter Approval of Sub Agreement with ActVnet / Farmersville Unified School District Adoption of Job Description – Program Assistant – Senior Center (Part-Time) Council Action: Consent items G 1-5 motioned by Councilmember Boyer, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Ochoa and approved with a 5-0 vote.
City Manager Daymon Qualls reviewed consent item 6 with the Council. The Council directed staff to change the job description under “Experience”- Experience working with older adults is desirable to Experience working with older adults is highly desirable.
Public Comment
Nora Carbara, a Senior Center attendee, requested that exercise be included as part of the activities offered at the Senior Center.
Pete Galindo, a Senior Center attendee, expressed hiring someone that can assist some of the members with exercise.
Council Action: It was motioned by Councilmember Gomez, seconded by Councilmember Valdovinos and approved with a 5-0 vote.
ACTION ITEMS
Comments related to Action and Public Hearing Items are limited to two (2) minutes per speaker, for a maximum of 20 minutes per item. The Mayor may reasonably limit or extend the public comment period to preserve the Council's interest in conducting efficient, orderly meetings.
Amendment to Final Costs of 2025 Street Improvements Project Council Action: It was motioned by Councilmember Boyer, seconded by Councilmember Gomez and approved with a 5-0 vote.
Measure R Citizens Oversight Committee – Authorization to Advertise Vacancy Council Action: It was motioned by Councilmember Boyer, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Ochoa and approved with a 5-0 vote.
Adoption of Resolution 2026-005 Authorizing Contract Award for HOME Administrative Subcontractor Services for the Gardenia Courtyards Senior Apartments Project Councilmember Boyer recused himself from this agenda item.
Council Action: It was motioned by Councilmember Gomez, seconded by Councilmember Valdovinos and approved with a 4-1 vote, with one Councilmember recused.
Adoption of Resolution 2026-004 Amending the Handbook of Rules and Procedures of the Farmersville City Council regarding the Inclusion of the Mayor and City Manager in Third-Party Communications Mayor Pro Tem Ochoa stated for the record, I respectfully asked that the following be reflected in the meeting minutes: As a councilmember, I want to express my concern that this new policy creates an unnecessary barrier between elected representatives and the community we serve. Our duty is to listen to and engage directly with our constituents, not to have those conversations filtered or delayed. Unfortunately, this feels like yest another attempt by the Mayor to monitor, intimidate and suppress councilmembers, something that has been seen before. Meanwhile, the City faces many urgent challenges that deserve our full attention. This policy is wasting valuable time and resources for both Councilmembers and staff, diverting focus from the priorities that truly matter to our residents. I believe our community deserves open, honest communication without added obstacles, and I remain committed to upholding that trust. This policy represents a direct violation of the First Amendment, as it seeks to limit Councilmembers ability to speak freely with the public and serve their constituents.
Mayor Tina Hernandez requested to be kept informed about ongoing City matters involving constituents and staff. She explained that residents have approached her with questions about issues she was not previously aware of. The intent of this request is not to interfere, but to ensure she can respond appropriately when contacted by constituents. Additionally, she emphasized that she respects the role of the mayor and would extend the same courtesy to any future mayor by keeping them informed.
City Attorney Nick Matoian clarified that the policy does not require reporting every communication with constituents or individuals. Instead, the intent is that when a constituent contacts a single council member regarding a city-related matter, such as hosting a proposed market or similar event that information should be appropriately shared with the City Manager and the Mayor. This approach is designed to promote awareness and coordination, not to limit or monitor individual communications.
Mayor Hernandez stated that she is a passionate and direct person who prioritizes results and problem-solving. She explained that her approach is motivated by a desire to create positive change and progress in the City of Farmersville. She emphasized that she does not consider herself a bully or intimidating, but rather someone who is proactive and solution-oriented. As a single mother who raised four children, she shared that she has learned to be decisive and to get things done.
Public Comment
Ruben Macareno a resident of Farmersville believes that the Council represents the residents and should have the freedom to speak to any Councilmember.
The Council directed staff to bring the item back to the next Council meeting as a discussion item.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
Introduce and conduct first reading, waive reading in full, Chapter 9.04, adopting a update of the Farmersville Noise Ordinance Mayor Hernandez opened the public comment at 7:42pm and closed it at 7:44pm.
Marissa Llamas a resident from Farmersville has several concerns regarding the property 442 N. Stevens.
The Council requested that the ordinance be adopted as an emergency ordinance, allowing it to take effect immediately without the standard 30-day waiting period.
Council Action: It was motioned by Councilmember Valdovinos, seconded by Councilmember Gomez and approved with a 5-0 vote.
Adoption of Resolution No. 2026-002 Authorizing Submission of an Application for 2025 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Funding Councilmember Boyer recused himself from this agenda item.
Mayor Hernandez opened the public comment at 7:46pm and closed it at 7:46pm.
Council Action: It was motioned by Councilmember Valdovinos, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Ochoa and with a 4-1 vote, with one Councilmember recused.
DISCUSSION ITEMS
Discussion and Direction Regarding Environmental Safety Guidelines for the City of Farmersville The Council discussed the existing environmental safety regulations and practices applicable to the City of Farmersville. The Council came to a consensus to hold a reoccurring round table discussion with outside speakers/guests to discuss environmental issues/regulations with City staff
COUNCIL REPORTS
Councilmembers reported on recent events and activities. Comments were informational only, and no action was taken.
CITY MANAGER/DEPARTMENT COMMUNICATIONS
The City Manager reported on recent events and discussed items of interest. Comments were informational only, and no action was taken.
GENERAL BUSINESS
Council members may raise issues, request future agenda items, or provide comments regarding City business.
FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
Description
Responsible Party
Agenda Date
Senior Housing-Gardenia Apts.
City Manager
TBD
Sewer DIF
City Manager
TBD
Sign Ordinance
Fire Chief
TBD
Potential Solar Project
City Manager
TBD
Potential AI Solutions
City Manager
TBD
Cannabis Revenues
Finance Director
TBD
Incentives for Commercial Development
City Manager
TBD
City Representation on Committees –
Water Blueprint for the San Joaquin Valley and San Joaquin Valley Collaborative Action Program City Manager
TBD
Mayor Hernandez adjourned the meeting at 8:36pm.
EXECUTIVE (CLOSED) SESSION
None
REGULAR MEETING ADJOURNMENT
State of California )
County of Tulare ) ss.
City of Farmersville )
I declare under penalty of perjury that I am employed by the City of Farmersville, in the City Manager’s Office; and that I posted this Agenda on the bulletin board outside of City Hall, 909 W. Visalia Rd. Farmersville, CA 93223 on Feb 20, 2026 and online on the City of Farmersville website: https://www.cityoffarmersville-ca.gov/. _______________________________________________
Rochelle Giovani , City Clerk
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the California Ralph M. Brown Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, or to be able to access this agenda and documents in the agenda packet, please contact the City Clerk (559)747-0458. Notification prior to the meeting will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting and/or provision of an appropriate alternative format of the agenda and documents in the agenda packet. (28 CFR 35.102-35. 104 ADA Title II).
Materials related to an item on this Agenda submitted to the legislative body after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection at Farmersville City Hall, 909 W. Visalia Rd., Farmersville CA 93223 during normal business hours.
MayorTina HernandezMayor Pro TemAraceli OchoaCouncil MembersGregorio GomezPaul BoyerDanny ValdavinosMayorTina HernandezMayor Pro TemAraceli OchoaCouncil MembersGregorio GomezPaul BoyerDanny ValdavinosFARMERSVILLE CITY COUNCIL Mayor
Tina Hernandez
Mayor Pro Tem
Araceli Ochoa
Council Members
Gregorio Gomez
Paul Boyer
Danny Valdavinos
Mayor
Tina Hernandez
Mayor Pro Tem
Araceli Ochoa
Council Members
Gregorio Gomez
Paul Boyer
Danny Valdavinos
MEETING AGENDA
February 23, 2026 6:00 PM
City Hall, 909 W. Visalia Rd.
Farmersville, California 93223
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:815 5679 6157
Password: 063834