2600 Fresno Street
Fresno, CA 93721
www.fresno.gov
City of Fresno
Meeting Minutes
City Council
Council President - Nelson Esparza
Vice President - Tyler Maxwell
Councilmembers:
Annalisa Perea, Mike Karbassi, Miguel Angel Arias,
Brandon Vang,
Nick Richardson
City Manager - Georgeanne A. White
City Attorney - Andrew Janz
Interim City Clerk - Amy K. Aller
9:00 AM Council ChambersThursday, June 4, 2026
Regular Meeting
The City Council met in regular session in the Council Chamber, City Hall, on the date and time above written.
9:09 A.M. ROLL CALL
Council President Nelson Esparza
Vice President Tyler Maxwell
Councilmember Annalisa Perea
Councilmember Mike Karbassi
Councilmember Miguel Angel Arias
Councilmember Brandon Vang
Councilmember Nick Richardson
Present: 7 -
Invocation by Sarbjit Singh Vaid, from Sikh Institute of Fresno Sarbjit Singh Vaid gave the invocation.
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag
Councilmember Richardson led the Pledge of Allegiance.
APPROVE AGENDA
THE AGENDA WAS APPROVED WITH THE FOLLOWING CHANGES
A separately noticed special meeting today at 3:30 P.M., or there after, for City of Fresno ***Subject to Mayoral Veto Page 1
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an Open session item File ID 26-816 Regarding - RESOLUTION - Establishing PRAC Guidelines Ad Hoc Committee as well as a Closed Session item File ID 26-815 regarding - CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL-EXISTING LITIGATION Government Code Section 54956.9, subdivision (d)(1) City of Fresno Fire & Police Retirement System, et al. v.
City of Fresno, Merced Superior Court Case No.: 25CV-02170. 2-R (ID 26-432) regarding amending Resolution No. 2025-281 designating the property located at 1844 S Cherry Avenue to the Local Register of Historic Resources - Councilmember Richardson registered a NO vote. 2-EE (ID 26-625) regarding authorize the City Manager to execute a Revenue Agreement with the State Community Center College District - Councilmembers Esparza and Arias announced disclosures due to employment from this item.
THE FOLLOWING ITEMS WERE REMOVED FROM THE AGENDA
2-V (ID 26-576) regarding the first amendment to the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) – was removed with no return by Councilmember Arias.
5-C (ID 26-757) regarding CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - ANTICIPATED LITIGATION Government Code Section 54956.9, subdivision (d)(4) 1 potential case – was moved to June 18th, 2026, Meeting by City Attorney Janz.
THE FOLLOWING CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS WERE MOVED TO THE
CONTESTED CONSENT CALENDAR FOR FURTHER DISCUSSION
2-E (ID 26-665) regarding a construction contract to Alpha1 Engineering, P.C. of Fresno, California, in the amount of $1,790,937.60 - was moved to Contested Consent by Councilmember Richardson.
2-Z (ID 26-640) regarding amending section 2-603 of the Fresno Municipal Code relating to the Publication of Legal Notices (Citywide) – was moved to Contested Consent by Councilmember Arias.
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2-AA (26-747) regarding establishing Entertainment Zones - was moved to Contested Consent by Councilmember Richardson.
2-BB (26-741) regarding the Fresno Police Department Helicopter “Skywatch” Unit - was moved to Contested Consent by Councilmember Richardson.
2-DD (ID 26-744) regarding the agreement with the State of California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) - was moved to Contested Consent by Councilmember Karbassi.
On motion of Councilmember Arias, seconded by Vice President Maxwell, the AGENDA was APPROVED AS AMENDED. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: Esparza, Maxwell, Perea, Karbassi, Arias, Vang and Richardson
7 -
CEREMONIAL PRESENTATIONS
ID 26-713 Proclamation of “Central High School Swim and Dive Team Day”
PRESENTED
ID 26-651 Proclamation for “John F. Kennedy 7th Grade CVAL Champions - Boys Volleyball”
PRESENTED
ID 26-763 Proclamation for “Proclamation for Pride Month”
PRESENTED
COUNCILMEMBER REPORTS AND COMMENTS
Councilmember Perea Reports and Comments. Thanked attendees of the Movies in the Park events held at Trolley Creek Park, noting strong turnout and encouraged the public to follow social media for upcoming Summer Movie events. Announced that the Pride Flag would be raised at Fresno City Hall the following morning.
Councilmember Karbassi Reports and Comments. Thanked the PARCS Department, Director Aguirre, and Capital Projects staff for their work and City of Fresno ***Subject to Mayoral Veto Page 3
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reported on a well attended community meeting at Herndon-Barstow Elementary School. Described progress on a new one acre park at Veterans Boulevard and Barstow Avenue, acquired two years earlier from De Young Properties, and emphasized the importance of community driven design.
Expressed appreciation to residents and staff for their participation.
Councilmember Arias Reports and Comments. Reported Movies in the Parks are beginning at Broadway Parque, Frank H. Ball Park, and Dicky Playground, with films including Lilo & Stitch, Shrek, and Monsters Inc.
Thanked the PARCS Department for providing activities for youth during summer evenings and noted food vendors would be present. Reported repairs to the shelters at Roeding Park are beginning, with expected completion in July. Congratulated colleagues who appeared on the primary ballot and inquired about illuminating the Water Tower in Pride colors for the upcoming weekend.
Councilmember Vang Reports and Comments. Reported meeting with business owners along Kings Canyon Road and Ventura Avenue to hear concerns related to the street renaming and its impact on their operations.
Announced the opening of PetSmart at the Ventura Creek Shopping Center, noting it offered the largest pet grooming area in Fresno and expanded services for District 5 residents.
Councilmember Richardson Reports and Comments. Reported District 6 recently held its FitFest event, which provided free activities and information promoting health and wellness and saw increased participation compared to the previous year. Congratulated the Fresno Chamber of Commerce Junior Board on its graduation and welcomed two new District 6 residents, including a newborn constituent.
Council President Esparza Reports and Comments. Reported celebrating Pride Month, noting the upcoming Pride Parade and a recent Pride Flag raising at Fresno City College. Reported participating in the Feeding California event with the Central Valley Food Bank, ABC30, and Amazon, recognizing efforts to address food insecurity. Attended the opening of the new Arakelian Family Kennels with colleagues and the Police Department, highlighting the importance of supporting the City’s trained K-9 units.
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MAYOR/MANAGER REPORTS AND COMMENTS
City Manager White Reports and Comments. Announced the Mayor was attending the U.S. Conference of Mayors for the remainder of the week, where he was chairing several panels.
1. SCHEDULED COUNCIL HEARINGS AND MATTERS
10:00 A.M.
ID 26-751 Appearance by Mary Padilla regarding “Who is the King of the Nation” (District 2 Resident)
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: Elliott Balch, Lori Garcia, Krista Aranda, Jamar Woodward, Joseph Solento, Jonathan Kelly, Alfred Aldrete, Henry Canty, Brandi N, Michael Cruz, and Joseph Rodriguez.
APPROVAL OF THE CONSENT CALENDAR
On motion of Councilmember Arias, seconded by Councilmember Perea, the CONSENT CALENDAR was hereby adopted by the
following vote:
Aye: Esparza, Maxwell, Perea, Karbassi, Arias, Vang and Richardson
7 -
2.-A. ID 26-748 Approval of the Minutes for May 21, 2026, Regular Meeting
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-B. ID 26-726 Actions related to the Parking Lot Management Agreement at Fresno Yosemite International Airport:
1. Adopt a finding of Categorical Exemption pursuant to Class 1/Section 15301 (Existing Facilities) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines;
2. Approve the Fourth Amendment to the Parking Lot Management Agreement between the City of Fresno and SP Plus LLC,
authorizing the installation of new equipment and software at the Fresno Yosemite International Airport public parking lots. The City of Fresno ***Subject to Mayoral Veto Page 5
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estimated annual cost is $191,850 per year, with 3% annual increases, for the duration of SP Plus ’s term. The total cost for eight (8) digital exit displays to be installed at parking lot exits is $80,000, which will be broken down into 36 equal monthly installment payments. (Council District 4)
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-C. ID 26-704 Approve Contract Change Order No. 2 with Ashron Construction and Restoration, Inc. of Galt, California in the amount of $ 441,195.98 with twenty-six (26) additional working days for the Parking Garage 8 High Priority Repairs Project (Bid File 12500160) (Council District 3)
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
ID 26-840 District 6 Photos Presented During Reports and Comments
2.-D. ID 26-705 Approve the First Amendment to the Consultant Services Agreement with Brooks-Ransom Associates, Inc ., in the amount of $ 52,500.00, bringing the total contract to $ 108,900.00, with no remaining contingency to provide additional professional engineering services needed to perform structural inspections, develop recommendations for permanent repairs and complete construction documents for the City of Fresno Garage 8 High Priority Repairs Project (Council District 3)
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-F. ID 26-666 Actions pertaining to Emergency Power Generator B -Switchgear and Headworks at the Fresno -Clovis Regional Wastewater Reclamation Facility (Bid File 12601534) (Council District 3)
1. Adopt a finding of Categorical Exemption pursuant to Sections 15301/Class 1(a) and (b) (Existing Facilities) of the California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines
2. Award a Construction Contract to Dawson -Mauldin, LLC, of Selma, California, in the amount of $3,135,000.00 (Bid File 12601534)
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-G. ID 26-696 Award a Construction Contract to Dawson -Mauldin LLC of Selma, California, in the amount of $ 1,653,460 for the construction of the Well Site Improvements at Pump Station 156 Project (Bid File 12601612) ( Council District 2)
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-H. ID 26-699 Actions pertaining to the Replacement of One Makeup Air Unit and Two Air Handling Units in the Headworks Building at the Fresno -Clovis Regional Wastewater Reclamation Facility (Bid File 12601341) (Council District 3) City of Fresno ***Subject to Mayoral Veto Page 6
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1. Adopt a finding of Categorical Exemption pursuant to Section 15301/Class 1 (Existing Facilities) and Section 15302/Class 2 (Replacement or Reconstruction) of the California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines, Environmental Assessment No. TC00176 -HC003
2. Award a Construction Contract in the amount of $833,658 to Strategic Mechanical Inc., of Fresno, California, as the lowest responsive and responsible bidder
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-I. ID 26-702 Actions pertaining to the Booster Pump Replacements for Pump Stations 89A, 150 and 176 Project (Bid File 12601793) (Council District 6)
1. Adopt a finding of Categorical Exemption pursuant to Section 15301/Class 1 (Existing Facilities) of the California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines
2. Award a Construction Contract in the amount of $2,538,800 to W .
M. Lyles Co., as the lowest responsive and responsible bidder
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-J. ID 26-700 Actions pertaining to the McKinley and Blythe Complete Streets Project, Bid File Number 12601327 (Council District 3)
1. Adopt a finding of Categorical Exemption per staff ’s determination, pursuant to Section 15301/Class 1 of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines
2. Award a Construction Contract in the amount of $2,718,109.00 to Avison Construction, Inc., of Madera, California
3. Approve an Interagency Agreement for Design and Construction of Master Plan Facilities and Improvements with the Fresno Metropolitan Flood Control District (FMFCD) for reimbursement of FMFCD facilities construction not to exceed $122,428.80
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-K. ID 26-703 Reject all bids for the Shaw Avenue Roadway Improvements from Fruit Avenue to Palm Avenue Project (Bid File No. 12601498) (Council Districts 1 and 2)
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-L. ID 26-734 Approve the award of a Requirements Contract for landscape maintenance services for locations maintained by the General Services Department, Fire Department, and Police Department in an amount not to exceed $285,000.00 per year plus annual CPI adjustments to BrightView Landscape Services, Inc. of Fresno, California for one year with five optional one-year extensions (RFP No. 9715)
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APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-M. ID 26-743 Actions related to the lease of the Fresno Water Tower located at 2444 Fresno Street between the City of Fresno and Downtown Development Group, LLC, DBA Frida Café (District 3):
1. Adopt a finding of Categorical Exemption pursuant to Section 15301/Class 1 of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines
2. Approve a Lease Agreement between the City of Fresno and Downtown Development Group, LLC, a California limited liability corporation, DBA Frida Caf é, to lease the Fresno Water Tower property located at 2444 Fresno Street for three years with options to extend for two additional one -year terms, starting at $9,252 in year one and increasing 3% annually, totaling $49,120.12 over five years in rent
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-N. ID 26-714 Approve the Cooperative Purchase Agreement with AMS .net, LLC, for the purchase of enterprise -grade technology equipment in an amount not to exceed $ 975,596.40, Merced County FOCUS Contract No. 2021092 (Original Government Contract)
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-O. ID 26-738 ***RESOLUTION - Adopt the Fifth Amendment to the Position Authorization Resolution (PAR) No. 2025-178, adding ten (10) unfunded full-time Firefighter Trainee positions in the Fire Department, effective June 15, 2026 (Subject to Mayor’s Veto)
RESOLUTION 2026-121 ADOPTED
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-P. ID 26-42 Approve the First Amendment to the Service Agreement with Marjaree Mason Center (MMC) to continue operating twelve (12) emergency shelter beds at Fresno Safe House, a secure site in Fresno, California, that provides refuge for individuals and families due to domestic violence .
MMC will also utilize motel vouchers to expand temporary housing services to clients off site until a room becomes available at the Fresno Safe House shelter. The amendment, funded by the Homeless Housing, Assistance, and Prevention (HHAP) program will cover July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027 for an amount not to exceed $240,000. (Bid File No.12500851)
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
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2.-Q. ID 26-43 Actions pertaining to the Ventura Family Apartments affordable rental housing development project, located at the southwest corner of South Eighth Street and Ventura Avenue (a portion of APN 470-052-02T and a portion of 470-05-03T) (City Council District 5)
1. Approve an Amended and restated Affordable Housing Agreement with Corporation for Better Housing to develop the Ventura Family Apartments affordable rental housing project
2. Approve a 55-year Amended and Restated Ground Lease, with two optional 10-year extensions, with 3720 E. Ventura Ave ., L .P. to develop and operate the Ventura Family Apartments affordable rental housing project
3. Approve an Assignment and Assumption of the Amended and Restated Affordable Housing Agreement between the City of Fresno, Corporation for Better Housing, and 3720 E. Ventura Ave ., L.P. for the Ventura Family Apartments
4. Approve a $5,000,000 Local Housing Trust Fund Agreement with 3720 E. Ventura Ave ., L .P for the Ventura Family Apartments affordable rental housing development project located at 3720 Ventura Ave.
5. Approve a License and Right of Entry Agreement with 3720 E .
Ventura Ave ., L .P. for Use of the City -Owned Parcel at 717 S .
Seventh Street (APN 470-052-02T)
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-R. ID 26-432 RESOLUTION - Amending Resolution No. 2025-281 Designating the Property Located at 1844 S Cherry Avenue to the Local Register of Historic Resources (Council District 3)
During approval of the Consent Calendar, Councilmember Richardson reregistered a NO vote for the above item. As such, this item was approved 6-1 by the following vote:
Aye: 6 - Perea, Karbassi, Arias, Maxwell, Vang, Esparza No: 1 - Richardson
RESOLUTION 2026-122 ADOPTED
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-S. ID 26-465 ***RESOLUTION - Adopting and approving submission of Substantial Amendment 2019-09 to the 2019-2020 Annual Action Plan to the U .S.
Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to reprogram $1,017,841.96 in Community Development Block Grant Coronavirus (CDBG-CV) funds to prevent, prepare for, and respond to the Coronavirus City of Fresno ***Subject to Mayoral Veto Page 9
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(COVID-19), and authorizing the City Manager or their designee to sign all necessary implementing documents. (Subject to Mayor's Veto) RESOLUTION 2026-123 ADOPTED
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-T. ID 26-506 Actions pertaining to the Encampment Resolution Fund round 5 (ERF-5) program.
1. RESOLUTION - Authorizing an application for funding directly from the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) as an applicant for the fifth round of the Encampment Resolution Funding (ERF) program for actionable, person -centered local proposals that resolve the experience of unsheltered homelessness for people residing in encampments and authorizing the City Manager to sign all required implementing documents.
2. Approve a Memorandum of Understanding committing the City and County of Fresno to participate in and comply with the services outlined in the ERF-5 application.
RESOLUTION 2026-124 ADOPTED
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-U. ID 26-575 Approve the Second Amendment to the Service Agreement with Elevate Community Services (Elevate) for the continued operation of Emergency Shelter services at Valley Inn, located at 933 N. Parkway Drive (APN 449-335-32) for 106 beds for individuals experiencing homelessness. The amendment period is from July 1, 2026, through September 30, 2026, in an amount not to exceed $ 600,000, funded through the Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention (HHAP) Program (Bid File No. 12500851) ( City Council District 3)
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-V. ID 26-576 Approve the First Amendment to the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) agreement between the City of Fresno and Chinatown Fresno Foundation to revise the Scope of Work and Proposed Budget for microenterprise assistance within the Chinatown neighborhood (Council District 3)
During approval of the agenda, Interim City Clerk Aller announced this item was removed with no return by Councilmember Arias.
TABLED
2.-W. ID 26-601 Actions pertaining to a Lease Agreement between the City of Fresno and Elevate Community Services, Inc. (District 3):
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1. Adopt a finding of Categorical Exemption pursuant to Section 15301/Class 1 of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines
2. Approve a Lease Agreement between the City of Fresno and Elevate Community Services, Inc ., a California non -profit corporation, for $0 to lease the Ambassador Inn located at 1804 W Olive Avenue (APN 449-231-11) for a one -year term commencing July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-X. ID 26-603 Actions pertaining to IPS Group, Inc. as the Sole Source Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) for parking meter equipment, materials, supplies and components:
1. ***RESOLUTION - Authorizing an exception to the formal bidding procedures and award a Sole Source Product Purchase Contract with IPS Group, Inc. (Subject to Mayor’s Veto)
2. Award a multi -year Sole Source Product Purchase Contract with IPS Group, Inc. for three years with provisions with the option for three one -year extensions thereafter, in an amount not to exceed $1,366,000 per year.
3. Authorize the Purchasing Manager or their designee, to execute all documents related to the Sole Source Product Purchase Contract with IPS Group, Inc.
RESOLUTION 2026-125 ADOPTED
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-Y. ID 26-631 Actions pertaining to Emergency Shelter operations provided by Poverello House (Poverello) under the Encampment Resolution Funding (ERF) program. (Council District 3 and 4) Bid File No. 12500851:
1. Approve the First Amendment to the agreement with Poverello House to (1) terminate the operation of the thirty (30) ERF-3-funded emergency shelter beds at Clarion Pointe (Hope Pointe) (APN 434- 143-06) effective June 30, 2026; (2) transfer the thirty (30) emergency shelter beds and the remaining ERF -3 budget of $590,797.02 from Clarion Pointe to Village of Hope, located at 412 F. Street (APN 467-083-55). The amended agreement term is from July 1, 2026, through December 31, 2026, with total compensation not to exceed $590,797.02 in ERF-3 funds.
2. Approve the First Amendment to the agreement with Poverello House for the provision of professional homeless emergency shelter services at the Village of Hope, located at 412 F. Street (APN 467- 083-55). The amended agreement term is from July 1, 2026, through December 31, 2026, with total compensation not to exceed $250,000 in ERF -2 funds providing for the operation of twenty (20) City of Fresno ***Subject to Mayoral Veto Page 11
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shelter beds at Village of Hope.
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-CC. ID 26-701 RESOLUTION - Approve the Final Map of Tract No. 6312, accepting dedicated public uses offered therein except for dedications offered subject to City acceptance of developer installed required improvements - located on Peninsula Drive just west of Portofino Drive (Council District 6) RESOLUTION 2026-126 ADOPTED
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-EE. ID 26-625 Authorize the City Manager to execute a Revenue Agreement with the State Community Center College District, subsidizing transit fares on Fresno Area Express buses for a period of three years with the option to extend two, one -year extensions, for a total compensation not to exceed $120,000 annually
APPROVED ON CONSENT CALENDAR
CONTESTED CONSENT CALENDAR
2.-E. ID 26-665 Award a Construction Contract to Alpha 1 Engineering, P .C. of Fresno, California, in the amount of $ 1,790,937.60, to construct the Well Site Improvements at Pump Station 208-2 Project (Bid File 12601634) ( Fresno County)
Councilmember Richardson moved the above item to Contested Consent to discuss the contract.
Council discussion was held.
APPROVED
On motion of Councilmember Perea, seconded by Council President Esparza, that the above Action Item be APPROVED. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: Esparza, Perea, Arias, Vang and Richardson5 -
Absent: Maxwell and Karbassi2 -
2.-Z. ID 26-640 BILL - (For Introduction) Amending Section 2-603 of the Fresno Municipal Code relating to the Publication of Legal Notices (Citywide) Councilmember Arias moved the above item to Contested Consent to discuss the changes.
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Council discussion was held.
TABLED
On motion of Councilmember Arias, seconded by Councilmember Richardson, that the above Action Item be TABLED. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: Esparza, Perea, Arias, Vang and Richardson5 -
Absent: Maxwell and Karbassi2 -
2.-AA. ID 26-747 Actions pertaining to establishing Entertainment Zones
1. ADOPTION of a finding that the proposed amendment is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3)
2. BILL B -18 (For Reintroduction) Adding Section 9-3801 and Amending Section 9-2503 of the Fresno Municipal Code relating to Establishing Entertainment Zones.
Councilmember Richardson moved the above item to Contested Consent to discuss the entertainment zones.
Council discussion was held.
BILL B-18 REINTRODUCED AND LAID OVER
On motion of Councilmember Arias, seconded by Vice President Maxwell, that the above Action Item be ADOPTED. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: Esparza, Maxwell, Perea, Karbassi, Arias, Vang and Richardson
7 -
2.-BB. ID 26-741 Actions pertaining to the Fresno Police Department Helicopter “Skywatch” Unit
1. Affirm City Manager ’s determination that Safran Helicopter Engines USA Inc. is Uniquely Qualified to provide service and support of our helicopter’s engines; and
2. Authorize the City Manager or designee to enter into a four -year contract expiring June 6, 2030 with Safran Helicopter Engines USA Inc. in an amount not to exceed $550,000 annually (or $2,200,000 over four years) for continued participation in Safran ’s Support By the Hour (SBH) program.
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Councilmember Richardson moved the above item to Contested Consent to discuss the contract.
Council discussion was held.
APPROVED
On motion of Councilmember Richardson, seconded by
Councilmember Perea, that the above Action Item be APPROVED. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: Esparza, Perea, Arias, Vang and Richardson5 -
Absent: Maxwell and Karbassi2 -
2.-DD. ID 26-744 Actions pertaining to the agreement with the State of California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) (Council Districts 1, 2, and 3)
1. Adopt a finding of Categorical Exemption pursuant to Section 15301/Class 1 of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines
2. Approve the revised State Route 99 Freeway Maintenance Agreement
Councilmember Karbassi moved the above item to Contested Consent to discuss the agreement.
Council discussion was held.
APPROVED
On motion of Councilmember Karbassi, seconded by Council President Esparza, that the above Action Item be TABLED to June 18, 2026. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: Esparza, Maxwell, Perea, Karbassi, Arias, Vang and Richardson
7 -
3. GENERAL ADMINISTRATION
3.-A. ID 26-730 Presentation regarding bargaining unit vacancies, pursuant to California Government Code Section 3502.3
The above item was presented to Council by Director Malhi and Sam Frank, Business Manager, Fresno City Employees Association (FCEA).
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There was no Council Discussion.
PRESENTED
UNSCHEDULED COMMUNICATION
Upon call, no members of the public addressed the Council with unscheduled communication.
4. CITY COUNCIL
4.-A. ID 26-787 Discuss and make an appointment to the Fresno Madera Area Agency on Aging Board
Council discussion was held.
DISCUSSED
5. CLOSED SESSION
During open session, City Attorney Janz announced each of the items that would be discussed in closed session.
Council withdrew to closed session at 11:36 P.M.
5.-A. ID 26-749
CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS - Government Code
Section 54957.6
City Negotiators: 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, Airports Public Safety Assistant 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 City of Fresno ***Subject to Mayoral Veto Page 15
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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 Esparza), City Attorney Investigator, City Clerk (City Negotiator, Council President Esparza), 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, 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, Special Assistant City Attorney, 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 26-765 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
5.-C. ID 26-757
CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - ANTICIPATED LITIGATION
Government Code Section 54956.9, subdivision (d)(4)
1 potential case
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During approval of the agenda, Interim City Clerk Aller announced this item was tabled to June 18, 2026, by City Attorney Janz.
TABLED
5.-D. ID 26-754 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
5.-E. ID 26-756
CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - ANTICIPATED LITIGATION
Government Code Section 54956.9, subdivision (d)(4); Exposure to Litigation: 1 potential case
The above item was discussed in closed session. There were no open session announcements for this item.
DISCUSSED
5.-F. ID 26-750 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
5.-G. ID 26-760 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. City Attorney Janz reported:
The Fresno City Council voted 4-0 with 1 abstention to authorize the City Attorney to retain counsel with the necessary expertise to pursue all legal avenues against the State of California and High-Speed Rail in order to defend against any tax splitting with High-Speed Rail. The motion was made by Councilmember Arias and seconded by Councilmember Richardson. Yes votes came from Councilmembers Vang and Arias, Council City of Fresno ***Subject to Mayoral Veto Page 17
June 4, 2026City Council Meeting Minutes
President Esparza, and Councilmember Richardson. Councilmembers Karbassi and Maxwell were absent.
DISCUSSED
5.-H. ID 26-733 CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL-EXISTING LITIGATION Government Code Section 54956.9, subdivision (d)(1)
Case Name: Joseph Perez, et al. v. City of Fresno, et al.; Fresno Superior Court Case No.22CECG01150
The above item was discussed in closed session. There were no open session announcements for this item.
DISCUSSED
5.-I. ID 26-746
CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL-EXISTING LITIGATION
Government Code Section 54956.9, subdivision (d)(1)
City of Fresno v. The Brackin-Daniels Trust, et al,
Fresno Superior Court, Case No. 24CECG02988
The above item was discussed in closed session. City Attorney Janz reported:
In closed session, the City Council approved a proposed settlement in the eminent domain case, Court No. 24CECG02988. The settlement provides a global resolution consistent with the City's project objectives, and under its terms, title to the subject property will vest in the City upon court approval and payment of $3.5 million plus the legally required interest, along with the deposit of the probable compensation including up to $6,000 in reimbursement for appraisal costs. The City has already deposited $2,817,900 with the State Treasurer’s Office Condemnation Fund. The settlement will be paid from Measure "C" and California Local Partnership Program Formulaic Grant funds. The Council approved this item by a vote of 6–0, with Councilmember Karbassi absent.
DISCUSSED
5.-J. ID 26-768 PUBLIC EMPLOYEE APPOINTMENT
1. Gov Code Section 54957(b) - Consider the appointment, employment, evaluation of performance, discipline, or dismissal of a public employee: Title: City Clerk
2. Gov Code Section 54957.6: Conference with labor negotiator. City City of Fresno ***Subject to Mayoral Veto Page 18
June 4, 2026City Council Meeting Minutes
Negotiators: Council President Nelson Esparza and Chief Assistant City Attorney Tina R. Griffin: Unrepresented Employee: City Clerk The above item was discussed in closed session. City Attorney Janz reported:
A motion was made by Councilmember Arias and seconded by Council President Esparza to formally appoint Amy Aller as the next City Clerk, effective June 15, 2026. The motion was approved by a 6–0 vote, with Councilmember Karbassi abstaining. As part of this action, staff was directed to bring back an at-will employment agreement for consideration in open session at the June 18, 2026, regular Council meeting.
DISCUSSED
5.-K. ID 26-745 PUBLIC EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE EVALUATION
1. Government Code Section 54957(b): consider the appointment, employment, evaluation of performance, discipline, or dismissal of a public employee.
Title: City Attorney
2. Government Code Section 54957.6: conference with labor negotiator.
City Negotiator: Council President Nelson Esparza.
Unrepresented Employee: City Attorney
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 4:57 P.M.
The above minutes were approved by unanimous vote of the City Council during the June 18, 2026 regular meeting.
City of Fresno ***Subject to Mayoral Veto Page 19