2600 Fresno Street
Fresno, CA 93721
www.fresno.gov
City of Fresno
Meeting Minutes
City Council
President - Mike Karbassi
Vice President - Miguel Angel Arias
Councilmembers:
Annalisa Perea, Tyler Maxwell, Brandon Vang,
Nick Richardson, Nelson Esparza
City Manager - Georgeanne A. White
City Attorney - Andrew Janz
City Clerk - Todd Stermer, MMC
10:00 AM Council ChambersThursday, September 11, 2025
Regular Meeting
The City Council met in regular session in the Council Chamber, City Hall, on the date and time above written.
10:14 A.M. ROLL CALL
Council President Mike Karbassi
Vice President Miguel Angel Arias
Councilmember Annalisa Perea
Councilmember Tyler Maxwell
Councilmember Brandon Vang
Councilmember Nick Richardson
Councilmember Nelson Esparza
Present: 7 -
Invocation by Chief Chaplain Neissha King from VA Central California Healthcare System U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs
Chief Chaplain Neissha King gave the invocation.
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag
Councilmember Richardson led the Pledge of Allegiance.
APPROVE AGENDA
Council President Karbassi showed a 9/11 tribute video prior to the approval of the agenda.
THE AGENDA WAS APPROVED WITH THE FOLLOWING CHANGES
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City Clerk Stermer announced the Special Meeting and the items listed on the agenda.
2-O (ID 25-854) regarding improvement projects compliance monitoring services for the Information Services Department - Councilmember Perea recused herself from this item because the consulting firm QK was associated with the item and is a source of income for her.
THE FOLLOWING ITEMS WERE REMOVED FROM THE AGENDA
2-C (ID 25-1179) regarding the first amendment to the Exclusive Negotiating Agreement with Fresno Chaffee Zoo Corporation – was tabled to a future date by Vice President Arias.
2-E (ID 25-1171) regarding contract change order no. 2 for a request from the prime contractor, West Valley Construction Company, Inc. to substitute the listed Subcontractor – was removed by staff.
2-N (ID 25-1185) regarding the UBEO City Copier Lease Agreement – was tabled to the September 25, 2025, by staff.
THE FOLLOWING CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS WERE MOVED TO THE
CONTESTED CONSENT CALENDAR FOR FURTHER DISCUSSION
2-F (ID 25-1157) regarding the 10th Amendment to the Annual Appropriations Resolution (AAR) No. 2025-179 – was moved to the contested consent by Vice President Arias.
2-K (ID 25-1087) regarding repealing the 2022 California Fire Code and adopting of the 2025 California Fire Code - was moved to the contested consent by Vice President Arias.
2-T (ID 25-916) regarding the service agreement with Poverello House for mobile shower and restroom operations - was moved to the contested consent by Vice President Arias.
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2-AA (ID 25-1212) regarding directing the administration to remove or refrain from imposing income requirements and income verification requirements for Local Housing Trust Fund – was moved to contested consent by Councilmember Maxwell.
On motion of Vice President Arias, seconded by Councilmember Vang, the AGENDA was APPROVED AS AMENDED. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Perea, Karbassi, Arias, Maxwell, Vang, Richardson, Esparza Vice President Arias motioned to reconsider the agenda. Councilmember Maxwell seconded the motion which PASSED 7-0 by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Perea, Karbassi, Arias, Maxwell, Vang, Richardson, Esparza Councilmember Maxwell to move item 2-AA (ID 25-1212) back to the Consent Calendar. Council President Karbassi seconded the motion which PASSED 7-0 by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Perea, Karbassi, Arias, Maxwell, Vang, Richardson, Esparza On motion of Councilmember Maxwell, seconded by Vice President Arias, the AGENDA was RE-APPROVED AS AMENDED. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: Karbassi, Arias, Perea, Maxwell, Vang, Richardson and Esparza
7 -
CEREMONIAL PRESENTATIONS
ID 25-1153 Proclamation of the 20th Anniversary of LifeBridge Community Church
PRESENTED
ID 25-1098 Proclamation of “California’s 175th Anniversary of Statehood Day”
PRESENTED
COUNCILMEMBER REPORTS AND COMMENTS
Councilmember Perea Reports and Comments. Announced an upcoming City of Fresno ***Subject to Mayoral Veto Page 3
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Town Hall to be jointly held with Fresno County Supervisor Luis Chavez at the Big Red Church.
Councilmember Maxwell Reports and Comments.Thanked Debra Rush from Breaking the Chains and Andrew Feil Every from Neighborhood Partnership for their impactful work in human trafficking recovery and youth literacy.
Highlighted safety concerns of an intersection at Ericson Elementary School and the District 4 collaboration with Public Works for additional safety measures. Announced the ribbon cutting of Thrive Chiropractic in District 4, and thanked Dr. Xiong for expanding access to healthcare in the community.
Discussed the Stay Golden Foundation literacy event at Fresno High School, which would include a screen of "The Outsiders" and a proclamation from District 4.
Councilmember Richardson Reports and Comments. Announced the addition of two District 6 team members, Addy and Earl. Appeared on GV Wire with the Council President to discuss city issues and encouraged the public to watch. Announced a quarterly Town Hall at Valley Oak Elementary School to engage with residents and city staff. Announced a 9/11 memorial event taking place at Todd Beamer Park. Discussed the immense size of the Garnet Fire and thanked Firefighters and other first responders for taking risks to keep people safe. Whished his brother-in-law a happy birthday.
Shared a personal reflection on the impact of 9/11, his motivation to serve and the importance of remembering we are all Americans. Encouraged people to serve by teaching the next generation to remember to forgive, remember to love and remember to serve.
Councilmember Esparza Reports and Comments. Attended a welcome reception for new Fresno City College President, Dr. Denise Whisenhunt, and congratulated her on her leadership role. Extended an invitation to the public to attend the upcoming Mexican flag-raising ceremony at City Hall in honor of Mexico’s 215th Independence Day. Discussed the upcoming Greek Fest event in District 7 and encouraged residents to attend and visit fresnogreekfest.com for details. Reflected the California 9/11 Memorial and shared a personal memory of the day while emphasizing the importance of unity and national healing.
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Vice President Arias Reports and Comments. Thanked the Fresno Hispanic Chamber and city staff for organizing the upcoming Fiestas Patrias event in downtown Fresno. Expressed appreciation to the Mayor and PARCS staff for completing cricket courts in District 3 and fulfilling a promise to support cultural inclusion. Reaffirmed the City’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, regardless of federal funding. Discussed the need for policy changes to address school shootings and contrasted how quickly domestic policy change following 9/11. Warned about the normalization of political violence and shared personal experiences with threats and harassment tied to public discourse. Made a plea for more respectful political dialogue and action to protect public officials and communities from escalating threats and division.
Council President Karbassi Reports and Comments. Announced a bipartisan effort with Supervisor Luis Chavez and other leaders to address and end political violence in Fresno. Announced a community cleanup event at Riverbottom Park, with registration available on the city’s website.
Highlighted the annual Police vs. Fire baseball game, congratulating the Police Department on the win. Discussed the River West Project at Spano Park and thanked city staff and the San Joaquin River Conservancy for hosting the State Natural Resources Secretary, Wade Crowfoot. Thanked Code Enforcement and the City Attorney’s Office for their professionalism and effectiveness in addressing recent cases.
MAYOR/MANAGER REPORTS AND COMMENTS
Mayor Dyer Reports and Comments. Thanked colleagues for attending the 9/11 memorial, noting the event’s growth and personal reflections from his time as Police Chief during the attacks. Discussed the recent Central Valley Honor flight in which hundreds of people welcomed the return of 73 veterans. He was able to talk to and pray over the Blue Star Moms in attendance. Announced he threw the first pitch at the annual Police vs. Fire baseball game and congratulated the Police Department on the win.
Announced he was engaged to speak at the San Joaquin Valley Housing Summit focused on affordable housing, held at the DoubleTree in downtown Fresno. Attended the ribbon cutting for G.J. Gardner Homes, celebrating their decision to invest in Fresno over other cities. Joined a luncheon honoring Solid Waste and Beautify Fresno employees, thanking staff and City of Fresno ***Subject to Mayoral Veto Page 5
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community partners for their support. Toured the new $250 million Kaiser Fresno Orchard Plaza facility and spoke at a leadership conference hosted there. Expressed concern over rising political violence and requested the council meeting be adjourned in memory of Charlie Kirk and the victims of the Evergreen High School shooting.
City Manager White Reports and Comments. Reported the Police Department won the annual Police vs. Fire baseball game 14 to11. Noted the annual game was a fund raiser full of camaraderie and purposely held on 9/11. Announced Standard & Poor’s affirmed the City of Fresno’s A- rating and A+ rating on lease revenue bonds, citing strong financial practices and a stable outlook. The City’s $54.7 million public safety bond offering was oversubscribed with $87.6 million in orders, resulting in a lower interest rate and cost savings. Moody’s upgraded Fresno’s credit profile from “stable” to “positive,” recognizing the City’s expanding economy, prudent budgeting, and strong financial reserves. Praised the Finance team, Assistant City Manager Ruthie Quinto, and the Mayor for leadership and fiscal discipline, contributing to the City’s improved financial standing.
1. SCHEDULED COUNCIL HEARINGS AND MATTERS
9:10 A.M.
ID 25-1184 HEARING to adopt resolutions and ordinance to annex territory and Levy a Special Tax regarding City of Fresno Community Facilities District No. 9, Annexation No. 70 (Territory known as Assessor ’s Parcel No. 433-485-13) (Northwest corner of North Marty Avenue and West Shields Avenue ). (Council District 1)
1. ***RESOLUTION - to Annex Territory to Community Facilities District No. 9 and Authorizing the Levy of a Special Tax for Annexation No. 70 (Subject to Mayor’s Veto);
2. ***RESOLUTION - Calling Special Mailed -Ballot Election (Subject to Mayor’s Veto);
3. ***RESOLUTION - Declaring Election Results (Subject to Mayor ’s Veto);
4. ***BILL - (For introduction and adoption) - Levying a Special Tax for the Property Tax Year 2025-2026 and Future Tax Years Within and Relating to Community Facilities District No. 9, Annexation No. 70 (Subject to Mayor’s Veto).
The above item was called to order at 11:16 A.M. and there was no presentation to Council. Upon call, no members of the public addressed City of Fresno ***Subject to Mayoral Veto Page 6
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Council: Public comment closed at 11:16 A.M.
There was no Council discussion.
RESOLUTION 2025-252 ADOPTED
RESOLUTION 2025-253 ADOPTED
RESOLUTION 2025-254 ADOPTED
BILL B-38 INTRODUCED / ORDINANCE 2025-38 ADOPTED
On motion of Councilmember Perea, seconded by Vice President Arias, that the above Action Item be ADOPTED. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: Karbassi, Arias, Perea, Maxwell, Vang, Richardson and Esparza
7 -
9:15 A.M.
ID 25-1149 HEARING to consider adoption of a resolution designating a property to the Local Register of Historic Resources.
RESOLUTION - Designating the Property Located at 1844 S Cherry Avenue to the Local Register of Historic Resources (Council District 3)
The above item was called to order at 11:17 A.M. and there was no presentation to Council. Upon call, no members of the public addressed Council. Public comment closed at 11:24 A.M.
Council discussion included: history of the Rosenberg Warehouse, and a key part of Fresno’s agricultural history; proposed renovations altering historic exterior features, and the Historic Preservation Commission findings for local designation; current commemorative markers at the site, and Council considering installing a plaque or monument; ownership clarification as PSC Fresno LLC, correcting earlier references to a trust; current building usage as self-storage continuing as such; past losses of historic buildings and the visual blight caused by boarded-up structures; two options were proposed: approve historic designation or work with the owner to preserve key architectural elements; metal panels on windows are not a suitable preservation approach for a historic asset; the Armenian Town restoration cited as a successful example of preserving historic character through careful renovation; approving the designation or tabling the item for City of Fresno ***Subject to Mayoral Veto Page 7
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further discussion with the property owner; and, staff not guaranteeing Mills Act approval.
On motion of Vice President Arias, seconded by Councilmember Richardson, that the above Action Item be TABLED to October 16, 2025. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: Karbassi, Arias, Perea, Maxwell, Vang, Richardson and Esparza
7 -
10:00 A.M.
ID 25-1178 Appearance by Maria Elena Gutierrez regarding “Lowell Street Sweeping Schedule” (District 3 Resident)
DID NOT APPEARED
2. CONSENT CALENDAR
Upon call, for public comment on all Consent, Contested Consent and Closed Session items, the following members of the public addressed Council: Brandy N. (2-AA).
During approval of the Consent Calendar, Council President Karbassi reregistered a NO vote for Items 2-Q (ID 25-1197), and 2-AA (ID 25-1212).
APPROVAL OF THE CONSENT CALENDAR
On motion of Councilmember Maxwell, seconded by Vice President Arias, the CONSENT CALENDAR was hereby adopted by the following vote:
Aye: Karbassi, Arias, Perea, Maxwell, Vang, Richardson and Esparza
7 -
2.-A. ID 25-1195 Approval of the Minutes for August 28, 2025, Regular Meeting
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-B. ID 25-1194 Approve the appointment of Scott Berry to the Mobile Home Rent Review and Stabilization Commission to a term ending June 30, 2029.
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-C. ID 25-1179 Approve the First Amendment to the Exclusive Negotiating Agreement with Fresno Chaffee Zoo Corporation through August 30, 2026.
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TABLED
2.-D. ID 25-1191 ***RESOLUTION - Authorizing the Interim Director of Aviation or designee to execute and submit all pre -application and application documents for Community Noise Mitigation Program grant funding to the United States Department of Defense Office of Local Defense Community Cooperation, accept grant funds for Fiscal Year 2026 for Fresno Yosemite International Airport, and execute funding agreements and any amendments thereto on behalf of the City of Fresno (Council District 4) (Requires 5 votes) ( Subject to Mayor’s veto)
RESOLUTION 2025-255 ADOPTED
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-E. ID 25-1171 Approve Contract Change Order No. 2 for a request from the Prime Contractor, West Valley Construction Company, Inc. to substitute the listed Subcontractor, Safety Network Incorporated of Fresno, California, with KRC Safety Company Incorporated of Visalia, California, for traffic control services to comply with the Rebid Requirements Contract to Furnish and Install Polyethylene Water Service Replacements - Year No. 2 - Project ID WC00095 with zero net impact to project cost. (Bid File 12300617) (Citywide)
TABLED
2.-G. ID 25-1133 Actions pertaining to the agreement with the Economic Development Corporation serving Fresno County (EDC) to assist in implementing and administering local economic development business attraction, expansion and retention activities:
1. Affirm the City Manager's finding that EDC is Uniquely Qualified and the Sole Source provider of these services; and
2. Approve a Consultant Services Agreement with the EDC for a period of one (1) year in the amount of $175,000; and
3. Authorize the City Manager, or their designee, the authority to execute the contract and grant up to two (2) optional one -year extensions.
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-H. ID 25-1119 Award a Consultant Services Agreement to NBS Government Finance Group, to conduct a Property Based Improvement District (PBID) Feasibility Evaluation and Action Plan for the Belmont Corridor for a term through August 31, 2027 and a total fee amount not to exceed $ 113,500. (Bid File 12502064)
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
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2.-I. ID 25-1118 Award a consultant services agreement to NBS Government Finance Group, to conduct a Property Based Improvement District (PBID) Feasibility Evaluation and Action Plan for the Blackstone Corridor for a term through August 31, 2027 and a total fee amount not to exceed $113,500. (Bid File 12502071)
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-J. ID 25-1188
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-L. ID 25-1137
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-M. ID 25-1198 Actions pertaining to the addition of Notice of Funding Availability to the list of procurement methods included in the Regulated Communications ordinance:
1. ***BILL B -37 (Introduced August 28, 2025)(For Adoption) Amending Sections 4-603, 4-604, 4-605, 4-607, and 4-608 of the Fresno Municipal Code, relating to Regulated Communications in the City Procurement Process (Subject to Mayor’s Veto)
ORDINANCE 2025-37 ADOPTED
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-N. ID 25-1185 Actions Pertaining to the UBEO City Copier Lease Agreement:
1. Approve the First Amendment to the Requirements Contract with UBEO (formerly Ray Morgan Company) to extend citywide copier lease and maintenance services Contract No. 9592 through July 1, 2029, and increase the annual contract amount to $512,600 to include additional equipment and services, for a total contract amount not to exceed $3,209,900.
TABLED
2.-O. ID 25-854 Actions pertaining to professional Public Works of Improvement Projects Compliance Monitoring Services for the Information Services Department . (Labor Compliance Monitoring ON-Call Services - Bid File 12501061)
1. Approve a five -year Compliance Monitoring Services Agreement with Labor Consultants of California, a Sole Proprietorship based in Hanford, California, with a not to exceed spending authority of $350,000.
2. Approve a five -year Compliance Monitoring Services Agreement with NV 5, Incorporated based in Fresno, California, with a not to City of Fresno ***Subject to Mayoral Veto Page 10
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exceed spending authority of $350,000.
During approval of the agenda, Councilmember Perea recused herself from the above item as consulting firm QK was involved and is a source of income for her. As such, this item was approved 6-0 by the following vote:
Aye: 6 - Karbassi,Arias, Maxwell, Vang, Richardson, Esparza Recused: 1 - Perea
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-P. ID 25-1170 ***RESOLUTION - Adopting the 6th amendment to the Annual Appropriation Resolution (AAR) No. 2025-179 appropriating $ 1,000,000 for the OneFresno Youth Service Corps Homelessness Pilot Program Grant (Requires 5 Affirmative Votes) (Subject to Mayor’s Veto) RESOLUTION 2025-258 ADOPTED
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-Q. ID 25-1197 ADOPTION of Text Amendment Application No. P25-00974 and related Environmental Finding for Environmental Assessment No. P25-00974, amending Table 15-1102 and Section 15-2728 of the Fresno Municipal Code, related to Drive -In and Drive -Through Facilities in Mixed -Use Districts.
ADOPTION of a finding set forth in Environmental Assessment No .
P25-00974, that Text Amendment Application No. P25-00974 is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3).
***Bill B -36 (Introduced August 28, 2025)(For Adoption) - Text Amendment Application No. P25- 00974, to amend Table 15-1102 and Section 15-2728 of the Fresno Municipal Code (FMC), relating to existing establishments with drive -through facilities that are required to relocate as a result of a project of public work (Subject to Mayor’s Veto)
During approval of the Consent Calendar, Council President Karbassi reregistered a NO vote for the above item. As such, this item was approved 6-1 by the following vote:
Aye: 6 - Perea, Arias, Maxwell, Vang, Richardson, Esparza No: 1 - Karbassi
ORDINANCE 2025-36 ADOPTED
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APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-R. ID 25-1187 Actions relating to repealing and adding Building Regulations in the Fresno Municipal Code
BILL - (For introduction) Repealing and Replacing Sections 11-101 Through 11-109 of Article 1, Chapter 11 of the Fresno Municipal Code, relating to the Adoption and Amendment of the 2025 Edition of the California Building Standards Code
BILL B-40 INTRODUCED AND LAID OVER
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-S. ID 25-1037 Actions pertaining to the City Studios affordable housing development located at 3876 North Blackstone Avenue (APN 436-260-22) (District 4):
1. ***RESOLUTION - Authorize acceptance of funding from the California Department of Community Services and Development Low-Income Weatherization Multifamily Program in the amount of $174,929 for the City Studios project, and authorize the City Manager, or designee, to execute all necessary documents to secure funding and participation in the program (Subject to Mayor ’s Veto)
2. ***RESOLUTION - Adopt the 9th Amendment to the Annual Appropriations Resolution (AAR) No. 2025-179 to appropriate $174,929 for the City Studios project from the Low -Income Weatherization Multifamily Program (Requires 5 Affirmative Votes ) (Subject to Mayor’s Veto)
3. Approve the California Department of Community Services and Development Low -Income Weatherization Multifamily Program Energy Efficiency Incentive Reservation and Participation Agreement to reserve the rebate in the amount of $174,929
4. Approve the Repair Services Agreement between the City of Fresno and RHCB Development, LP, a Limited Partnership, to increase the compensation amount by $174,929 for a total agreement amount of $8,561,585 to incorporate the Low -Income Weatherization Program rebate, and extend the Term of Agreement and Time of Performance to December 31, 2025
RESOLUTION 2025-259 ADOPTED
RESOLUTION 2025-260 ADOPTED
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-U. ID 25-1209 Actions relating to repealing and reenacting Building Regulations in the Fresno Municipal Code
BILL - (For introduction) Related to Local Climatic Topographical and Geological Conditions Repealing Article 6 Section 11-627 and City of Fresno ***Subject to Mayoral Veto Page 12
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Reenacting Article 6 Section 11-627 of the Fresno Municipal Code BILL B-41 INTRODUCED AND LAID OVER
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-V. ID 25-1156 ***RESOLUTION - Adopting the 5th Amendment to the Annual Appropriation Resolution No. 2025-179 to appropriate $ 644,100.00 for Developer Reimbursements. (Council District 1 and 5) (Requires 5 Votes) (Subject to Mayor’s Veto)
RESOLUTION 2025-261 ADOPTED
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-W. ID 25-1172 RESOLUTION - Authorizing the Submission of a Grant Application for $5,550,000 in Grant Funds from the Wildlife Conservation Board and Authorizing Execution of Grant Related Documents for the Partial Funding of Construction of Phase 1 of the River West Eaton Trail Extension Project . (Council District 2)
RESOLUTION 2025-262 ADOPTED
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-X. ID 25-1202 Approve Amendment No. 4 to Measure “C” Cooperative Project Agreement, Grade Separation Program, for the Blackstone & McKinley BNSF Grade Separation Project, in the amount of $ 8,000,000.00, for a total increased agreement amount not to exceed $ 66,500,000.00, with the Fresno County Transportation Authority (Council Districts 1 and 7).
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-Y. ID 25-1189 Approve the appointment of Nick Yovino Jr. to the Active Transportation Advisory Committee (ATAC) for a term ending September 11, 2028.
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-Z. ID 25-1213 Approve the appointment of Jacob Bailey to the Active Transportation Advisory Committee (ATAC) for a term ending March 30, 2026
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-AA. ID 25-1212 ***RESOLUTION - Directing the Administration to remove or refrain from imposing income requirements and income verification requirements for Local Housing Trust Fund allocations to the Eviction Protection Program (Subject to Mayor’s Veto)
During approval of the Consent Calendar, Council President Karbassi reregistered a NO vote for the above item. As such, this item was approved City of Fresno ***Subject to Mayoral Veto Page 13
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6-1 by the following vote:
Aye: 6 - Perea, Arias, Maxwell, Vang, Richardson, Esparza No: 1 - Karbassi
RESOLUTION 2025-263 ADOPTED
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
CONTESTED CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-F. ID 25-1157 ***RESOLUTION - Adopt the 10th Amendment to the Annual Appropriations Resolution (AAR) No. 2025-179 appropriating $100,000,000 in Downtown Fresno and Chinatown Infrastructure Grant funding (Requires 5 Affirmative Votes) (Subject to Mayor’s Veto).
Vice President Arias moved the above item to Contested Consent to get clarification on the financing.
Council discussion included: loan fund concerns over the lack of a public presentation on the revolving loan fund’s terms; request to ensure all developers receive the same information publicly and simultaneously; temporarily investing unused infrastructure funds or reallocating them to the loan fund if demand is high; prioritizing housing loans before resolving infrastructure and parking issues; and, request for staff to confirm whether streets affected by construction will be fully repaved or just patched.
RESOLUTION 2025-256 ADOPTED
Vice President Arias motioned to approve the item with direction for staff to come back with the workshop at the next Council meeting and prior to any awards being recommended.
On motion of Vice President Arias, seconded by Councilmember Maxwell, that the above Action Item be ADOPTED. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: Karbassi, Arias, Perea, Maxwell, Vang, Richardson and Esparza
7 -
2.-K. ID 25-1087 Actions pertaining to Repealing the 2022 California Fire Code and Adopting of the 2025 California Fire Code with local amendments:
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1. Adopt a finding that this project is not subject to the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to CEQA Guidelines, Section 15061(b)(3) as there is clearly no possibility the adoption of the 2025 California Fire Code or local amendments may have a significant adverse effect on the environment
2. ***RESOLUTION - Adopt Resolution making express findings that modifications or changes to the 2025 California Fire Code, 2025 California Historical Building Code, and 2025 California Residential Code are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, or topographical conditions (Subject to Mayor’s Veto)
3. BILL (For Introduction) - Adopting express findings of necessity related to local climatic, topographical, and geological conditions, which make the City ’s amendments to the California Fire Code reasonably necessary, repealing Article 10 of Chapter 5, and adding Article 10 to Chapter 5 of the Fresno Municipal Code relating to fire and life safety regulations
Vice President Arias moved the above item to Contested Consent to get clarification on the fire code changes.
Council discussion included: City required to adopt the 2025 Fire Code updates, which take effect in January; concerns about delays in fire inspections due to staffing shortages, despite previously approved funding for more inspectors; delays in inspections affecting occupancy permits and slowing down business openings, which impacts City revenue; staff urged not to delay hiring Fire Inspectors for cost-saving reasons, as it creates broader economic impacts; and, clarification that projects with permits already pulled will not be subject to the new Fire Code requirements.
RESOLUTION 2025-257 ADOPTED
BILL B-39 INTRODUCED AND LAID OVER
On motion of Vice President Arias, seconded by Councilmember Perea, that the above Action Item be ADOPTED. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: Karbassi, Arias, Perea, Vang and Richardson5 -
Absent: Maxwell and Esparza2 -
2.-T. ID 25-916 Actions related to the Service Agreement with Poverello House for Mobile Shower and Restroom Operations.
1. Adopt a finding of Categorical Exemption pursuant to Section 15301/Class 1 (Existing Facilities), under the California City of Fresno ***Subject to Mayoral Veto Page 15
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Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines.
2. Approve a Service Agreement with Poverello House (Poverello) for Mobile Shower and Restroom Operations from September 30, 2025, through September 29, 2026, in the total amount of $324,000 funded with the Homeless Housing, Assistance, and Prevention (HHAP) program.
Vice President Arias moved the above item to Contested Consent to get clarification on the criteria for the agreement.
Council discussion included: criteria used to select the recommended vendor for the homeless services contract; concerns about requiring vendors to be members of the Fresno Madera Continuum of Care (FMOC) without a formal public decision aligning the City with the organization; concern that FMOC membership could limit competition and create an exclusive funding environment among a small group of providers; skepticism about FMOC’s transparency, performance benchmarks, and whether its members are held to the same scrutiny as City funded providers; caution against disqualifying capable vendors solely for not being FMOC members, especially if they are unaware of the requirement; whether FMOC ever revokes membership for poor performance and how that compares to the City's ability to terminate contracts; and, confirmation the scope of services provided under the new contract would remain consistent with past operations.
APPROVED
On motion of Vice President Arias, seconded by Council President Karbassi, that the above Action Item be APPROVED. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: Karbassi, Arias, Perea, Vang and Richardson5 -
Absent: Maxwell and Esparza2 -
3. GENERAL ADMINISTRATION
3.-A. ID 25-1220 ***RESOLUTION - Suspending the Labor Management Act for 15 Days (Subject to Mayor’s veto)
There was no presentation to Council. Upon call, no members of the public addressed Council.
There was no Council discussion.
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RESOLUTION 2025-249 ADOPTED
On motion of Vice President Arias, seconded by Councilmember Perea, that the above Action Item be ADOPTED. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: Karbassi, Arias, Perea, Maxwell, Vang, Richardson and Esparza
7 -
3.-B. ID 25-1221 Actions pertaining to the International Association of Firefighters A .F.L. -C.I.O., Fresno City Firefighters Association, Local 202, IAFF - Non-Management Fire for Unit 5
1. ***Adopt a successor Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Fresno and International Association of Firefighters A .F.L. -C.I.O., Fresno City Firefighters Association, Local 202 (Non-Management Fire - Unit 5) (Subject to Mayor’s veto)
2. ***RESOLUTION: Adopt the Sixth Amendment to FY 2026 Salary Resolution No. 2025-177, amending Exhibit 5, Unit 5 -
Non-Management Fire (IAFF), to provide a salary increase for respective classes as required by the Memorandum of
Understanding between the City of Fresno and International Association of Firefighters A .F.L.-C.I.O., Fresno City Firefighters Association, Local 202 (( Non-Management Fire - Unit 5) (Subject to Mayor’s veto)
There was no presentation to Council. Upon call, no members of the public addressed Council.
Council discussion included: total percentage increase in salary under the proposed contract; clarification on the total financial value of the agreement; highest salary tier under the new agreement, excluding overtime; how the new compensation compares to neighboring jurisdictions; confirmation the contract is fully funded by the City’s general fund; gratitude to both the Administration and Local 202 for fair and efficient negotiations; and, heroism and sacrifices of firefighters, both locally and nationally.
RESOLUTION 2025-250 ADOPTED
On motion of Councilmember Maxwell, seconded by Councilmember Perea, that the above Action Item be ADOPTED. The motion carried by the following vote:
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Aye: Karbassi, Arias, Perea, Maxwell, Vang, Richardson and Esparza
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3.-C. ID 25-1222 Actions pertaining to the International Association of Firefighters A .F.L. -C.I.O., Fresno City Firefighters Association, Local 202, IAFF - Management for Unit 10
1. ***Adopt a successor Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Fresno and International Association of Firefighters A .F.L. -C.I.O., Fresno City Firefighters Association, Local 202 ( Fire Management - Unit 10) (Subject to Mayor’s veto)
2. ***RESOLUTION: Adopt the Seventh Amendment to FY 2026 Salary Resolution No. 2025-177, amending Exhibit 10, Unit 10 - Fire Management (IAFF), to provide a salary increase for respective classes as required by the Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Fresno and International Association of Firefighters A.F.L.-C.I.O., Fresno City Firefighters Association, Local 202 ( Fire Management - Unit 10) (Subject to Mayor’s veto)
There was no presentation to Council. Upon call, no members of the public addressed Council.
Council discussion included: total percentage increase in salary under the proposed contract; clarification on the total financial value of the agreement; highest salary tier under the new agreement, excluding overtime; and, thanks to the FPOA for settling their contract quickly and amicably, setting a positive example for negotiations with other labor groups.
RESOLUTION 2025-251 ADOPTED
On motion of Councilmember Richardson, seconded by
Councilmember Perea, that the above Action Item be ADOPTED. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: Karbassi, Arias, Perea, Maxwell, Vang, Richardson and Esparza
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UNSCHEDULED COMMUNICATION
Upon call, no members of the public addressed the Council with unscheduled communication.
4. CITY COUNCIL
5. CLOSED SESSION
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During open session, City Attorney Janz announced each of the items that would be discussed in closed session.
Council withdrew to closed session at 1:54 P.M., and again at 3:03 P.M.
5.-A. ID 25-1196
CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS - Government Code
Section 54957.6
City Negotiators: Anthony Garcia; Sumeet Malhi
Employee Organization(s): 1. International Union of Operating Engineers, Stationary Engineers, Local 39 (Local 39); 2. Fresno City Employees Association (FCEA); 3. Fresno Police Officers Association (FPOA Basic), Unit 4; 4. International Association of Firefighters, Local 202, Unit 5 (Fire Basic); 5. Amalgamated Transit Union, Local 1027 (ATU); 6. International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local 100 (IBEW); 7. Fresno Police Officers Association (FPOA Management); 8. International Association of Firefighters, Local 202, Unit 10 (Fire Management); 9. City of Fresno Professional Employees Association (CFPEA); 10. City of Fresno Management Employees Association (CFMEA). 11. Employee
Organization(s): Unrepresented Employees in Unit 2 (Non-Represented Management and Confidential Classes): Airport Public Safety Manager, Assistant City Attorney, Assistant City Manager, Assistant Controller, Assistant Director, Assistant Director of Personnel Services, Assistant Director of Public Utilities, Assistant Director of Public Works, Assistant Police Chief, Assistant Retirement Administrator, Background Investigator, Budget Analyst, Budget Manager, Chief Assistant City Attorney, Chief Information Officer, Chief Labor Negotiator, Chief of Staff to Councilmember, Chief of Staff to the Mayor, City Attorney (City Negotiator, Council President Karbassi), City Attorney Investigator, City Clerk (City Negotiator, Council President Karbassi), City Engineer, City Manager (City Negotiator, Mayor Dyer), Community Coordinator, Community Outreach Specialist, Controller, Council Assistant, Deputy City Attorney II , Deputy City Attorney III, Deputy City Manager, Director, Director of Aviation, Director of Development, Director of Personnel Services, Director of Public Utilities, Director of Transportation, Economic Development Coordinator, Economic Development Director, Executive Assistant to Department Director, Executive Assistant to the City Attorney, Executive Assistant to the City Council, Executive Assistant to the City Manager, Executive Assistant to the Mayor, Fire Chief, Governmental Affairs Manager, Human Resources Manager, Independent Reviewer, Internal Auditor, Investment Officer, Management Analyst II, Payroll Accountant, Payroll Manager, Police Chief, Principal Budget Analyst, Principal Internal Auditor, Principal Labor Relations Analyst, Project Liaison/Program Administrator, Public Affairs Officer, Public Works Director, Retirement Administrator, Retirement Benefits Manager, Retirement Office Manager, City of Fresno ***Subject to Mayoral Veto Page 19
September 11, 2025City Council Meeting Minutes
Senior Budget Analyst, Senior City Attorney Investigator, Senior Deputy City Attorney I, Senior Deputy City Attorney II, Senior Deputy City Attorney III, Senior Human Resources/Risk Analyst, Senior Law Clerk, Supervising Deputy City Attorney, Veterinarian
The above item was discussed in closed session. There were no open session announcements for this item.
DISCUSSED
5.-B. ID 25-1214
CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - ANTICIPATED LITIGATION
Government Code Section 54956.9, subdivision (d)(4)
Case Name: City of Fresno v. May Chin Ching (5469 N Hazel);(Code Enforcement case number E24- 15295)
The above item was discussed in closed session. There were no open session announcements for this item.
DISCUSSED
5.-C. ID 25-1206 CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - ANTICIPATED LITIGATION Government Code Section 54956.9, subdivision (d)(4): 1 potential case The above item was discussed in closed session. There were no open session announcements for this item.
DISCUSSED
ADJOURNMENT
The Council meeting adjourned from closed session at 3:43 P.M. in memory of Charlie Kirk and the students of the Evergreen High School shooting.
The above minutes were approved by unanimous vote of the City Council during the September 25, 2025, regular meeting.
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