Agenda packet — Gonzales City Council, January 20, 2026

Any writing or documents provided to a majority of the City Council regarding any item on this agenda will be made available for public inspection at City Hall located at 147 Fourth Street, Gonzales, California, during normal business hours.

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A G E N D A

JOINT MEETING OF THE

GONZALES CITY COUNCIL AND

GONZALES SUCCESSOR AGENCY
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS – 117 FOURTH STREET
GONZALES, CA 93926
TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2026
6:00 P.M.

CALL TO ORDER

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

1. ROLL CALL- City Council/Successor Agency
Mayor Pro Tem/Vice Chair Liz Silva, Council/Agency Member Scott Funk, Council/Agency Member Lorraine Worthy, Council/Agency Member Maria Orozco, Mayor/Chair Jose L. Rios
Successor Agency Item

If you wish to make either a general public comment or to comment on a specific agenda item, please use the Raise Hand function. You will be allowed two minutes for your comments.

If you choose not to attend the City Council meeting but wish to make a comment on a specific agenda item, please submit your comment limited to 250 words or less by 12:00p.m. on the day of the meeting to the City Clerk at [email protected]

PRESENTATION

2. Certificates of Recognition to the Gonzales Knights Mighty Mite Division

3. Wastewater Treatment Facility Update

BUSINESS FROM THE PUBLIC

4. Business from the Public not on the Agenda; any member of the Public may address the Council/Agency for a period not to exceed two (2) minutes on any subject not on the Agenda.

The Council/Agency will listen to all communications but may take no action. *
Any writing or documents provided to a majority of the City Council regarding any item on this agenda will be made available for public inspection at City Hall located at 147 Fourth Street, Gonzales, California, during normal business hours.

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CONSENT AGENDA
All matters listed under the Consent Agenda are considered routine by the City Council and will be adopted by one action of the Council unless any Council Member has a question or wishes to make a statement or discuss an item. In that event, the Mayor will remove the item from the Consent Calendar for separate consideration.

5. Approve the Joint City Council and Successor Agency - Regular Meeting - January 12, 2026 Minutes

6. City Manager’s Report

7. Community Development Department Activity Report

8. Community Engagement & Recreation Departments Activity Report

9. Fire Department Activity Report

10. Police Department Activity Report

11. Public Works/City Engineer Department Activity Report

12. Consider Approval of Resolution No.2026-02, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Gonzales Approving an Amendment to the City of Gonzales Classification Plan for the Fiscal Year 2025-2026

REGULAR AGENDA

13. Consider Approval of Resolution No. 2026-01, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Gonzales Authorizing the City Manager to Execute an Easement to Enable PG&E to Serve Power to a Freeway-Oriented Billboard on City Property APN: 020-201-022-000 a) Staff Report
b) Public Comment
c) Council Discussion
d) Council Action
Staff Recommended Action-Adopt Resolution No. 2026-01

14. Introduce, Waive Reading, and Ready by Title Only Ordinance No. 2026-156, An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Gonzales Authorizing the Purchase and Use of an Unmanned Aerial System (Drone) and Making Findings in Compliance with Gonzales Police Department Policy Manual 709-Military Equipment
a) Staff Report
b) Public Comment
c) Council Discussion
d) Council Action
Staff Recommended Action-Introduce, waive reading, and read by title only Ordinance No. 2026-156

GONZALES YOUTH COUNCIL UPDATES

15. Oral Communications

BUSINESS FROM CITY COUNCIL

16. City Council Board/Committee Reports
a. League of California Cities Monterey Bay Division
b. Association of Monterey Bay Area Governments
c. Monterey Salinas Transit

17. Oral Communications
*
Any writing or documents provided to a majority of the City Council regarding any item on this agenda will be made available for public inspection at City Hall located at 147 Fourth Street, Gonzales, California, during normal business hours.

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BUSINESS FROM CITY MANAGER

18. Oral Communications

ADJOURNMENT
In compliance with the American with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact the City Clerk at (831) 675-5000. Notification 48 hours prior to the meeting will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting. (CFR 35.102-

35.104 ADA Title II). This is a public meeting and as such, can be seen live by people present or online and is being recorded; therefore; anything you say or do here is public information. The recordings are available online.

I, Mary Villegas, Deputy City Clerk of the City of Gonzales, do hereby certify that a copy of the foregoing Joint City Council/Successor Agency Regular Meeting Agenda was posted at City Hall, Council Chambers, and on the City’s website by Thursday, January 15, 2026, at 5:00p.m. 01/15/26
Mary Villegas Date

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MINUTES

JOINT MEETING OF THE

GONZALES CITY COUNCIL AND

GONZALES SUCCESSOR AGENCY
MONDAY, JANUARY 12, 2026
6:00 P.M.

CALL TO ORDER
The meeting was called to order at 6:00 PM by Mayor Pro Tem Liz Silva.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Youth Commissioners Rodriguez led the flag salute.

1. ROLL CALL
Attendee Name Title Status
Jose L. Rios Mayor/Chair Excused
Liz Silva Mayor Pro Tem/Vice Chair Present
Scott Funk Council/Agency Member Present
Lorraine Worthy Council/Agency Member Present
Maria Orozco Council/Agency Member Present

YOUTH COMMISSIONERS
Orlando and Ricardo Rodriguez.

STAFF PRESENT
City Manager Carmen Gil, City Attorney Michael F. Rodriquez, Community Development Director Taven Kinison Brown, Finance Director Mike Howard, Executive Assistant to the City Manager/Deputy City Clerk Mary Villegas, Administrative Assistant II Marisol Gomez, Administrative Assistant II Yoanna Meza, and Police Chief Wise.
* Successor Agency Item
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Minutes Acceptance: Minutes of Jan 12, 2026 6:00 PM (CONSENT AGENDA) AGENDA
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PUBLIC NOTICE
This meeting is being conducted consistent with State of California Executive Order N-29-20 dated March 17, 2020, regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. The public may participate in person or online via zoom at https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87020263943 or call 1 (669) 900-6833 and use Meeting ID: 870 2026 3943. If you wish to make either a general public comment or to comment on a specific agenda item, please use the Raise Hand function. You will be allowed two minutes for your comments.

PRESENTATIONS

2. Introduction of New City Employee
City Manager Gil introduced Administrative Assistant II Yoanna Meza who joined the City in November.

Administrative Assistant II Meza appreciated the opportunity to work for Gonzales and shared she has been learning a lot.

BUSINESS FROM THE PUBLIC

3. Business from the Public not on the Agenda; any member of the Public may address the Council for a period not to exceed three minutes on any subject not on the Agenda. The Council will listen to all communications, but may take no action.

Andrew Brown talked about critiques on public comment for closed session which he thought it wasn’t going to happen; the Cyber Safety presentation at the Police Station which he thought was useless if parents and children did not walk out with parental controls and Youth Council not being contributors to the content; and suggested social media posts from the City Manager involving updates of events and infrastructure.

City Attorney Rodriquez noted that the listening on the agenda for the closed session and public comments was the correct way to agendize the fact that public comment was allowed on items that were on the closed session. He mentioned it doesn’t go into the detailed description, there are no staff reports. He gave the example of this evening's agenda about discussions with bargaining units, and if a member of the bargaining unit knew that we were going to go into closed session, they would be able to address the Council before we went into closed session. He added that was the way it has been agendized and that was the way that the law reads. He said the public comment was required before going into closed session.

CONSENT AGENDA

4. Approve the Joint City Council & Successor Agency - Regular Meeting - Regular Meeting - December 8, 2025 Minutes

5. Approve Accounts Payable Warrants #53073-53259

6. Consider Approval of Resolution No. SA-2026-01, A Resolution of the Successor Agency to the Former Gonzales Redevelopment Agency Approving the Recognized Obligation Payment Schedule 26-27 for the Period of July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027 *

*
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Minutes Acceptance: Minutes of Jan 12, 2026 6:00 PM (CONSENT AGENDA)

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RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS] Consent Agenda Items 4-6
MOVER: Lorraine Worthy, Council Member
SECONDER: Scott Funk, Council Member
AYES: Liz Silva, Scott Funk, Lorraine Worthy, Maria Orozco EXCUSED: Jose L. Rios

REGULAR AGENDA

7. Changes to the Brown Act Under SB 707
Staff Report: City Attorney Rodriquez presented the staff report.

Public Comment: There was none.

It was the Council's consensus to accept the report and bring back any necessary items.

8. Consider Approval of Resolution No. SA-2026-02, A Resolution of the Successor Agency to the Former Gonzales Redevelopment Agency Approving the Last and Final Recognized Obligation Payment Schedule 2026-27 Through 2035-36
Staff Report: Finance Director Howard presented the staff report.

Public Comment: There was none.

RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Scott Funk, Agency Member
SECONDER: Maria Orozco, Agency Member
AYES: Liz Silva, Scott Funk, Lorraine Worthy, Maria Orozco EXCUSED: Jose L. Rios

9. Public Hearing to Consider Waiver of Second Reading, Read by Title Only, and Adopt Ordinance No. 2025-154, An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Gonzales Repealing Chapter 11.04 of the Gonzales City Code Entitled ‘California Building Codes’, and adopting a New Chapter 11.04 Entitled “California Building Codes” and adopting by Reference the 2025 Edition of the California Building Standards Codes: ‘California Administrative Code’ (Part 1),‘California Building Code Volumes 1 and 2 (Part 2), -with exceptions, and Appendix Chapters H, I and J, ‘California Residential Code’(Part 2.5) - Appendix Chapters BF and CI’, ‘California Electrical Code’ (Part 3), ‘California Mechanical Code’ (Part 4), ‘California Plumbing Code’ (Part 5), ‘California Energy Code’ (Part 6), ‘California Wildland-Urban Interface Code’ (Part 7), ‘California Historical Building Code’ (Part 8), ‘California Fire Code (Part 9) – with exceptions and all appendix Chapters’, ‘California Existing Building Code’ (Part 10), ‘California Green Building Standards Code’ (Part 11), ‘California Referenced Standards Code, (Part 12), and adopting the 2024 International Property Maintenance Code and the ‘1997 Uniform Code for the Abatement of Dangerous Buildings’
Staff Report: Community Development Director Kinison Brown presented the staff report.

Mayor Pro Tem Silva opened the public hearing at 6:30pm.

Public Hearing: There were no comments.
*
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Minutes Acceptance: Minutes of Jan 12, 2026 6:00 PM (CONSENT AGENDA)

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Mayor Pro Tem Silva closed the public hearing at 6:30pm.

RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Lorraine Worthy, Council Member
SECONDER: Scott Funk, Council Member
AYES: Liz Silva, Scott Funk, Lorraine Worthy, Maria Orozco EXCUSED: Jose L. Rios

10. Consider Waiver of Second Reading, Read by Title Only, and Adopt Ordinance No. 2025-155, An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Gonzales, California, Amending Chapter 12.56 Summary Of Zoning Districts and Permitted Uses Of Title 12, Part 3 Zoning Districts Staff Report: Community Development Director Kinison Brown presented the staff report.

Public Comment: Andrew Brown pointed out Taven's microphones were off and it was echoing.

RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Scott Funk, Council Member
SECONDER: Maria Orozco, Council Member
AYES: Liz Silva, Scott Funk, Lorraine Worthy, Maria Orozco EXCUSED: Jose L. Rios

GONZALES YOUTH COUNCIL UPDATES

11. Oral Communications
Commissioners Rodriguez reported on the current and past Youth Council Members’ attendance at the Community Center Grand Opening, fall GYC meeting plans, High School outreach program activities, joint meeting with Soledad and Greenfield Youth Councils on January 20th, and GYC meeting on January 29th.

BUSINESS FROM CITY COUNCIL

12. City Council Board/Committee Reports
a. Transportation Agency for Monterey County
No report.
b. Mayor Selection Committee
On behalf of Mayor Rios, Mayor Pro Tem Silva announced Marina's Mayor Bruce Delgado was selected as the new Chair for the year.
c. Salinas Valley Recycles
Mayor Pro Tem Silva reported the decision was made on the new General Manager for the Salinas Valley Solid Waste Authority and it will become public information at Thursday's meeting at 6:00pm.
d. Measure K Oversight Committee
Council Member Worthy reported the committee was able to find additional $25,000 from the Measure K funds and they determined it would be for work on the website. City Manager Gil mentioned there was a delay due to staff changes but staff was trying to get the Subcommittee together to review the applications. Council Member Orozco asked if they would be able to review them before April since the children's festival was coming up. City Manager Gil responded yes, in the next two to three weeks.

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Minutes Acceptance: Minutes of Jan 12, 2026 6:00 PM (CONSENT AGENDA)

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13. Oral Communications
Council Member Worthy shared her excitement about Saturday's Grand Opening of the Community Center seeing the community showing up and participating. She thanked City Manager Gil and staff for working hard to put that day together. She said it was great to have all our legislators and Council Members there. She announced she wasn’t going to be at the next meeting since she would be having hip surgery and hoped to be back in a couple of weeks.

Council Member Funk gave kudos to the City Manager and staff for leading the efforts to get the Community Center open. He knew they had a lot of work to do ahead of us as far as programming and he was excited we were on to a new chapter in the City of Gonzales. He appreciated City Manager Gil's leadership and direction to make it all happen.

Council Member Orozco echoed her colleague's comments regarding Saturday's ceremony and thanked City Manager Gil and staff for taking the lead on this project. She said she received a lot of positive comments regarding our youth and their involvement with the project. She also thanked the High School Band for performing that day.

Mayor Pro Tem Silva also echoed everyone's comments. She was excited that our small little town came out big for these kinds of events. She thanked staff, the youth, the community and elected officials throughout the valley. She also suggested having some forms in case people wanted to buy a brick. She mentioned for those interested in buying a brick to contact City Hall.

She thanked the efforts of the Caprara family and some of the growers that were there who came together and heard many wonderful things about how we include our youth in our decision making. She was excited to see Jeffrey, one of the founders of the Youth Council, and others who were even translating for the Spanish speaking community. She encouraged the youth to keep their bilingual abilities. She reminded everyone there was no senior luncheon this month, and if anyone knew a senior going through health issues, to let her or City Manager Gil know so they could get something to them on behalf of the Adventure Seeking Senior group, who have put blankets together for several years. She hoped everyone’s NFL team made them happy this season.

BUSINESS FROM CITY MANAGER

14. Oral Communications
City Manager Gil gave shout out to everyone who worked on the Community Center and made it to the grand opening. She informed we had folks who came all the way from LA and Seattle. She elaborated on the outcome and said she heard nothing but great comments. She said staff had some pavers left and staff was working with the contractor to see what the best way was to order more, and will get the information out. She announced full programming, such as the Boys and Girls Club, would start on the 26th, and some folks will start moving next week.

Community Development Director Kinison Brown reported on the Puente del Monte EIR, and the installation of the billboard.

CLOSED SESSION
Any member of the public may address the Council on a closed session item appearing on the agenda.

Speakers shall have a limited time of two (2) minutes. Please be brief and to the point.

No comments came forward.

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Minutes Acceptance: Minutes of Jan 12, 2026 6:00 PM (CONSENT AGENDA)

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15. The City Council will recess to Closed Session to meet with its designated representatives regarding labor relations matters pursuant to Government Code Section 54957.6. The Employee Groups are Gonzales Police Officers Association, Gonzales Police Supervision Association, International Fire Fighters Local 5388, and Unrepresented Employees.

Council conferred with its negotiators concerning labor negotiations with the referenced bargaining units and provided direction. No other reportable action taken.

16. The City Council will recess to closed session to consider personnel matters pursuant to Government Code Section 54957 (Evaluation- City Manager).

This item was continued to a future meeting since Mayor Rios was absent.

ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 7:15 PM.

ATTEST:

Mary Villegas, Deputy City Clerk
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Minutes Acceptance: Minutes of Jan 12, 2026 6:00 PM (CONSENT AGENDA)

CITY OF GONZALES
2025 SNAPSHOT
Wow! What an amazing year 2025 has been! The City has been running like a true “little engine that could”, working on projects that promise to transform our community. The Dennis and Janice Caprara Community Center Complex is almost complete with its Grand Opening Celebration taking place January 10, 2026. The new Industrial Wastewater Treatment Facility is currently under construction with an estimated completion date of Spring 2027, and the new Electronic Billboard is under production with the developer planning to begin construction mid-January.

DENNIS AND JANICE CAPRARA COMMUNITY CENTER COMPLEX Phase 1 of the project brings in a new Teen Innovation Center and Teen Lounge to our community as well as a brand-new building for the local Monterey County Free Library, a meeting room, an outdoor amphitheater and plenty of outdoor spaces to enjoy. Did we also mention the new EV charging stations that will be available onsite? This exciting project is being made possible through funding from Measure X, private donations, grants, and a USDA Loan. It will be programmed with support from the Monterey County Boys and Girls Club, Olinga Learning among partnerships with CSUMB, UCSC, and Hartnell College. 2025 OUTSTANDING EMPLOYEES This year we had multiple deserving employees that were recognized by their peers for their hard work
and dedication. Please join me in Congratulating our
Outstanding 2025 Employees: Fire Chief Jason
Muscio; Fire Captain, David Vasquez; Recreation
Coordinator & Administrative Analyst, Jessica
Olmedo; and Administrative Assistant II, Marisol
Gomez. We congratulate all of them and thank them
for their outstanding service.

NEW ARTWORK Through the support
of Blue Zones Project,
we were able to
commission a
beautiful mural that
now adorns our
downtown.

AGENDA
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Attachment: City Manager Report 2025 Snapshot (3448 : City Manager Report - 2025 Snapshot)

TEN YEARS OF

GONZALES YOUTH COUNCIL (GYC)
The idea of a Gonzales Youth Council (GYC) started over ten years ago. Today, our GYC is stronger than ever, it has been nationally recognized and has been a model for Soledad, Greenfield and Salinas. They have helped take on local issues, have helped establish policy, and have even been published in medical journals. They advocated for mental health supports and even drove the process to get the Teen Innovation Center built.

What started as an idea has had a lasting impact on the students that have been part of it. Now, past GYCers represent Gonzales in circles around the State and Nation. All 87 participants have gone on to higher education and continue to make a positive impact in the community. Some have even made their way back to the area and now serve as teachers, mentors and supporters of young people. We can’t wait to see what the next 10 years of the GYC will bring! For more information on their journey, visit the City of Gonzales’ website at www.gonzalesca.gov.

IN 2026...

The Dennis and Janice Caprara Community
Center Complex will be in operation. The Teen
Innovation Center and Lounge, the Library, the
Outdoor Amphitheatre, the Meeting Room, and
Parking Spaces, including EV charging stations
will be open.

The Electronic Billboard will be up and running.

We will continue to advance the construction of
the Industrial Wastewater Treatment Facility.

We will continue advancing the Vista Lucia
housing project.

We will have a more modern website.

And we will continue to be fiscally responsible
and work to attract new revenue streams.

GRANT FUNDING The City received multiple grants this year, including one in the amount of $30,000 from the Office of Traffic
Safety to support Gonzales PD’s efforts in reducing the number of persons injured in crashes, and aid in impaired driving enforcement, and public engagement and
education. In addition, the City secured $630,000 from
the County’s CDBG funds to support the purchase of a
brand-new Fire Truck.

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City of Gonzales

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT

ACTIVITY REPORT
TO: Honorable Mayor Rios and City Council
DATE: January 20, 2026
FROM: Taven Kinison Brown, Community Development Director THROUGH: Carmen Gil, City Manager
SUBJECT: Community Development Department Activity Report

HOUSING
The Vista Lucia Specific Plan. On Thursday, January 8, 2026, city staff gathered a meeting together with LAFCo, the Agricultural Land Trust of Monterey County, the Pembrook Development Team, and representatives of a potential agricultural mitigation site for the conversion of agricultural lands on the Fanoe Family Properties. The meeting revealed that additional work and collaborative efforts will be necessary between all parties. Once the City’s agricultural mitigation offer has been determined, the mitigation proposal will be incorporated into the City of Gonzales’s Annexation proposal before LAFCo.

The Housing Element. Placeworks Inc. is underway preparing the implementation programs for the 6th Cycle Housing Element. Placeworks’ aid to the city is being paid with our REAP 2.0 Grant administered through AMBAG.

The Puente Del Monte Specific Plan. On Monday, January 26, 2026, the Planning Commission will convene to consider the EIR kick-off and EIR Scoping meeting for the revised Puente Del Monte (PDM) Specific Plan Project. The PDM Specific Plan area covers approximately 500 acres and will include a range of housing types and property sizes comprising approximately 2,600 living units, school sites, commercial sites and abundant recreation and open space opportunities. The site is aligned along Gloria Road adjacent to the future Rianda Cooler site annexed into the City previously.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
AGENDA
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The Freeway Oriented Electronic Billboard. Ground breaking and on-site construction for this longanticipated addition to Gonzales will happen in the week January 19-23. City staff has been making our best effort to have PGE complete their electrical service to the sign, prior to, or upon construction.

BUILDING DIVISION ACTIVITY
From November 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025 (61 reporting days) the City issued 14 permits for removal and replacement of a generator, a garage conversion to an ADU, reroofs and plumbing among others. The estimated value of improvements was $280,021.60.

CODE ENFORCEMENT
The City continues to meet with property owners, inspect potential violations and start documentation to progress to remedies.

CITY BUSINESS LICENSES
City staff recently mailed and followed through with ~70 incomplete business license applications to seek compliance. Responses were robust, and local businesses are becoming compliant.

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City of Gonzales

CITY MANAGER DEPARTMENT

STAFF REPORT
TO: Honorable Mayor Rios and City Council
DATE: January 20, 2026
FROM: Carmen Gil, City Manager
SUBJECT: Community Engagement & Recreation Departments Activity Report Current Events
Kid Power
• In November, students focused on homework and preparing for the holiday break, including participating in parent-teacher conferences and managing half-day schedules. On rainy days, staff provided engaging indoor activities, supported students in improving reading skills, and reinforced learning through flashcards.
• During the three-day Fall Camp over Thanksgiving week, 19 children enjoyed a mix of indoor and outdoor activities, games, and arts and crafts, making for a fun and creative week. • In December, the After School Program ran for two short weeks before the holiday break.

Children enjoyed hunting for the Elf on the Shelf, with Public Works occasionally hiding the elf to make the activity even more exciting. Homework support continued, and the program concluded with a festive pajama party.
• Winter Camp was held from the end of December through early January and had a total of 18 students registered; some of the featured activities included arts and crafts, indoor games, and AGENDA
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outdoor chalk art. Students particularly enjoyed using 3-D pens to explore their creativity. On the second-to-last day of Winter Camp, Salinas Valley Recycling visited, and children participated in games and activities that taught them about recycling, sorting, and identifying what belongs in trash and recycling bins.

City Sports League
• The competition level this season was very competitive across all divisions. Our “B” division league had their championship game on December 16th. The teams that advanced to the Championship were Team Savages and Team Half Pint Servers. Half Pint Servers took the win in the Second set. Each set was a close game. Our “C” division league championship was on December 17th. The two teams that advanced to the Championship were Team Scat Pack and Team Just for Fun. The game went to an exciting 3rd set with team Just for fun taking the win 15- 13 in the end. Oue “A” division league championship was on December 18th. The two teams to advance to the championship were Team Jasmine and Team Grave Diggers. This was a close game for each set. This game also went to an exciting 3rd set. Team Grave Diggers were down in the 3rd set trailing Team Jasmin 6-8. But Team Grave Diggers pulled together and came back to take the win 15-13. It was an exciting season for everyone. • Our adult volleyball league season was a successful one. We had a total of 14 teams this season.

One team came all the way from Seaside to join our league. Our season ended with championship games the week of December 15th.
• Our Youth Basketball league registration is slowly growing. We have a total of 86 registered participants so far. We have 17 in our PreK-Tk boys and girls division, 24 in our all-girls’ division and 45 in our all-boys division. Our girls’ division has 3 divisions 7U, 10U and 13U. Our boy’s division has 4 divisions grades Kinder-1st, 2nd-3rd, 4th-5th and grades 6th-8th. We currently have 9 volunteer coaches so far. Skills assessments will be starting the week of January 12th. I’m anticipating numbers to raise before assessments begin. • Our South County Girls Softball league registration is slowly moving. We have 4 players, and two coaches that have registered so far. Our season will start in March. Numbers will pick up as we get closer.

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• Our Mini T-ball registration began on December 1st. No registrations have come in yet. League will start on April 11th, so we have some time. Season is set to end on May 16th. Games will be on Saturday mornings
Recreation/ Community Engagement
• During the months of November and December, the Recreation Department continued to offer a variety of senior-focused classes, including Chair Yoga, Senior Circuit, Art, Wreath Making, and Cooking. All classes, apart from Senior Circuit, are provided through our partnership with Alliance on Aging. Senior programming is scheduled to continue through June 2026, at which time the current class offerings will be reassessed as the fiscal year ends. The Senior Circuit class will conclude in December 2025, as it was developed and facilitated by Service-Learning student Ivan Caballero, who will be graduating from CSUMB in December. • On Friday, November 7th, the Recreation Department hosted its second annual Hometown Heroes Ceremony at Central Park. This year, 12 new registrations were received to honor local veterans, bringing the total number of displays at Central Park to 36. The department anticipates continued growth in participation in the coming years. We extend our sincere appreciation to American Legion Post 81 and the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 81 for their generous contribution of $20 toward the cost of each commemorative sign.
• On Saturday December 6th, we hosted our annual Holiday Lights event on 4th Street from 4:30PM-7:30PM. The event was kicked off by our wonderful GHS band and featured a variety of carnival games, 5 vendors, raffle prizes and an opportunity to meet Santa! In addition, local partner Leaders 4 Earth participated by hosting a table and distributed prizes to children. Overall, the event was a success, with more than 150 “Letters to Santa” from our youth.

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• On Monday, December 15th, the Recreation Department held its annual Yard Decorating Contest! A total of 8 participants registered for the competition and a first, second and third place award was presented that evening. The first-place winner showcased a theme titled “Villegas in the North Pole,” followed by second place with “Gingerbread House,” and third place with “Winter Heaven.” The Recreation Department extends its sincere appreciation to all participants for their creativity and for bringing festive holiday spirit to our community. • On Wednesday, December 17 I met with our partners at the Resource Conservation of Monterey County and Live Well Project (a continuation of the Blue Zones initiative), we discussed developing a timeline and plan for establishing a Community Garden Committee, including its structure and scope. The Live Well Project plans to host some community walks that will pass through the garden to gain more foot traffic in that area. The Live Well Project also plans to host community walks that will pass through the garden to increase foot traffic and community engagement in the area. Additionally, a meeting is scheduled with partners at Save the Whales in January to discuss hosting Community Garden clean-up and gardening days throughout 2026.

Gonzales Youth Council
• On Saturday, November 8th, the Gonzales Youth Council met in the Chambers to host a brainstorming session about their Food Pantry Community Action Project. Some of the key takeaways from the meeting included finalizing a timeline for their project, building a list of potential key partners they should reach out to and landing on a date for their event, which will be held on Saturday, March 28 at the Community Garden.

Activities in the Planning Phase
As we end 2025, we look forward to opening the doors to the new Dennis and Janice Caprara Community Center and continuing our established partnerships as well as welcoming new ones to our community! We will host a grand opening Ceremony on Saturday, January 10th from 10:00AM-11:30AM.

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City of Gonzales

FIRE DEPARTMENT

ACTIVITY REPORT
TO: Honorable Mayor Rios and City Council
DATE: January 20, 2026
FROM: Jason Muscio, Fire Chief
THROUGH: Carmen Gil, City Manager
SUBJECT: Fire Department Activity Report

RESPONSES
There were 69 calls for service during the month of December, bringing the total number of calls for calendar year 2025 to 870, please see the attachment to this report for the full call statistics for 2025. In December, the fire department responded to; 1 structure fire, 2 vehicle fires. 46 EMS calls, 3 hazardous conditions incidents, 4 service calls, 6 false alarms, and 7 calls were cancelled in route. The Fire Department provided mutual aid once and received mutual aid once.

STAFFING
The Department is fully staffed with career personnel, and two active Volunteer Firefighters. We have two additional Volunteer Firefighter applications that are in process.

TRAINING
All crews completed annual hazardous materials response training as well as refresher EMS training.

Captain Rizo and Firefighter Gomez-Miller attended a search and rescue operations techniques training course in Monterey. All firefighters have begun logging behind the wheel hours towards their initial engineer certification.

EQUIPMENT
All apparatus remains in service without the need for significant repairs. Required annual flow testing for our breathing apparatus was performed by our vendor.

AGENDA
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PREVENTION
Annual business inspections were conducted as needed. Personnel assisted the Recreation Department with the Holiday Lights event, and distributed informational fact sheets to the public during the event.

Attachments:

1. 2025cTotal Record Volume By Incident Type Report (15) (1) Packet Pg. 19
Custom Jan 1, 2025 - Dec 31, 2025
Jan '25 Feb '25 Mar '25 Apr '25 May '25 Jun '25 Jul '25 Aug '25 Sep '25 Oct '25 Nov '25 Dec '25 02468
Jan '25 Mar '25 May '25 Jul '25 Sep '25 Nov '25 Ja…
Jan '25 Feb '25 Mar '25 Apr '25 May '25 Jun '25 Jul '25 Aug '25 Sep '25 Oct '25 Nov '25 Dec '25 Jan '26 Total (10) Fire, other1113
(11) Structure
Fire
211217
(12) Fire in
mobile
property used
as a fixed
structure
11 (13) Mobile
property
(vehicle) fire
1211212 10
(14) Natural
vegetation fire
112419
(15) Outside
rubbish fire
11 (16) Special
outside fire
11 (31) Medical
assist
1122224537 29
(32) Emergency medical
service (EMS)
incident
34 58 36 31 44 46 36 49 53 45 55 38 525
(35) Extrication,
rescue
11 (40) Flammable
gas or liquid
condition,
other
2121523152 24
(41)
Combustible/f…
spills & leaks
11114
(42) Chemical
release,
reaction, or
toxic condition
112
(44) Electrical
wiring/equipm…
problem
11 36%
FIRE
Percentage of Total
Incidents
64%
EMS
Percentage of Total
Incidents
870

INCIDENTS
In Selected Time Slice
365
DAYS
In Selected Time Slice
Counts % Rows % Columns % All

ANALYTICS
Total Record Volume By Incident Type

Page 1 of 2 ends

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Attachment: 2025cTotal Record Volume By Incident Type Report (15) (1) (3438 : Fire Department Activity Report) Jan '25 Feb '25 Mar '25 Apr '25 May '25 Jun '25 Jul '25 Aug '25 Sep '25 Oct '25 Nov '25 Dec '25 Jan '26 Total (46) Accident,
potential
accident
11 (50) Service
call, other
3235357 28
(51) Person in
distress
314
(52) Water
problem
2111117
(53) Smoke,
odor problem
11 (54) Animal
problem or
rescue
123
(55) Public
service
assistance
3524 114217334 49
(56)
Unauthorized
burning
11 (60) Good
intent call,
other
1111711 13
(61)
Dispatched
and canceled
en route
56 14 108 12456766 89
(62) Wrong
location, no
emergency
found
112
(63) Controlled
burning
213
(65) Steam,
other gas mistaken for
smoke
22 (66) EMS call
where party
has been
transported
11 (67) HazMat
release
investigation
w/no HazMat
11 (70) False
alarm and
false call, other
432313363145 38
(71) Malicious,
mischievous
false alarm
112
(73) System or
detector
malfunction
11 (74)
Unintentional
system/detect…
operation (no
fire)
111115
NULL11
Total 57 83 65 61 75 81 66 75 92 64 82 69 870

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Attachment: 2025cTotal Record Volume By Incident Type Report (15) (1) (3438 : Fire Department Activity Report) City of Gonzales

POLICE DEPARTMENT

ACTIVITY REPORT
TO: Honorable Mayor Rios and City Council
DATE: January 20, 2026
FROM: Keith Wise, Chief of Police
THROUGH: Carmen Gil, City Manager
SUBJECT: Police Department Activity Report
Crime and Arrests
The Gonzales Police Department investigated 7 Part I Crimes (Homicide, Robbery, Theft, Burglary, Rape, Assault and Motor Vehicle Theft) during the month of November. During the same time last year, there were 15 Part I Crimes investigated.

During the month of November, Officers made 13 arrests. During the same time last year, there were a total of 19 arrests.

During the month of November, the Department initiated 24 Abandoned Vehicle Abatement (AVA) / 72- hour parking violation cases. 24 violations were self-abated by the registered owners upon notification of the Municipal Code Violation.

The Gonzales Police Department investigated 5 Part I Crimes (Homicide, Robbery, Theft, Burglary, Rape, Assault and Motor Vehicle Theft) during the month of December. During the same time last year, there were 4 Part I Crimes investigated.

During the month of December, Officers made 14 arrests. During the same time last year, there were a total of 9 arrests.

During the month of December, the Department initiated 22 Abandoned Vehicle Abatement (AVA) / 72- hour parking violation cases. 14 violations were self-abated by the registered owners upon notification of the Municipal Code Violation. 8 are still pending corrective action by the upcoming due date.

AGENDA
ITEM
10 Packet Pg. 22
Calls for Service
The Department responded to 627 calls for service in November 2025. There were 49 crimes, accidents, and information reports taken during the month.

The Department responded to 628 calls for service in December 2025. There were 51 crimes, accidents, and information reports taken during the month.

Animal Control
During the month of November 2025, the Animal Control Officer (ACO) provided the following services:

Animal Control Trapped/Stray Dead Injured Bite Cases Returned to Owner Transported to SPCA Cats 0 1 0 0 0 0
Dogs 3 0 0 0 2 1
Total = 3 1 0 0 2 1

During the month of December 2025, the Animal Control Officer (ACO) provided the following services:

Animal Control Trapped/Stray Dead Injured Bite Cases Returned to Owner Transported to SPCA Cats 0 1 0 0 0 0
Dogs 7 0 0 0 1 6
Total = 7 1 0 0 1 6
Significant Cases
Although the Police Department responded to 627 calls for service during the month of November, the most significant cases involved 7 Part I crimes. 0- Homicide 0-Rape, 0-Robbery, 4-Assault, 1-Burglary, 1-Larcenies, and 1-Stolen Motor Vehicle Thefts.

Although the Police Department responded to 628 calls for service during the month of December, the most significant cases involved 5 Part I crimes. 0- Homicide 0-Rape, 0-Robbery, 2-Assault, 0-Burglary, 2-Larcenies, and 1-Stolen Motor Vehicle Thefts.

Training
The Department continues to conduct in-house training.

Officer Pruneda and Officer Fierros attended a 16-hour Standardized Field Sobriety Testing course on November 3 – November 4, 2025, hosted by the Clovis Police Department in Clovis, CA.

Other
On November 24, 2025, the Department hosted a Coffee with a Cop event at Amor de Cafe. Officers and staff had the opportunity to meet and converse with community members.

On December 13, 2025, the Department in conjunction with the Monterey County SPCA, hosted a vaccination clinic at the Police Department.

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City of Gonzales

CITY MANAGER DEPARTMENT

ACTIVITY REPORT
TO: Honorable Mayor Rios and City Council
DATE: January 20, 2026
FROM: Carmen Gil, City Manager
SUBJECT: Public Works/City Engineer Department Activity Report

WASTEWATER

1. Industrial Wastewater Treatment Facility – The Contractor (Gateway Pacific) began construction on 7/21/2025. The contractor, construction manager, design consultant and City staff hold bi-weekly progress meetings to discuss open items, status of submittal reviews, schedule and other business.

The contractor completed the grading work including the four basins on 9/30/25. The contractor has installed PG&E conduits and is currently placing structural concrete at the influent pump station.

Completion of this important project is expected in April 2027.

2. Staff continue to check the influent and effluent, run daily inspections and testing of Dissolved Oxygen levels, pH, and conductivity at the wastewater treatment plant on a daily basis. The disposal ponds were full over the Holidays; Staff utilized the flood lanes to their fullest potential. The contractor is on site and building the ponds for the new facility. Over the Holiday break staff continued to repair several levies within the main ponds. Staff continue to use the new ponds to help with the daily flow. Staff worked to make repairs to a couple of aerators that were not working in ponds 1 and 2. Staff is using the new clarifying system to improve the status of the wastewater in the plant. In addition to SRB a product that helps with the wastewater plant’s sludge problem.

3. Work at the Municipal Plant has continued. Gateway created two new basins out of what was already flood lanes onsite. Rain for Rent brought in the Clarifying System over the Holiday and begun operating it on 1/5/26. They are now helping to drain pound D so that we can get in there and begin rehabilitating it.

AGENDA
ITEM
11 Packet Pg. 24

4. Rehabilitation of two Brick Sewer Manholes – The bid opening was on 10/23/25 and the contract was awarded to Don Chapin Company at the 11/03/25 Council Meeting. The field work began on 12/22/25 with replacement of the manhole rims and covers, followed by concrete channel repair and internal coating work conducted on 1/5/25 through 1/7/25. The contractor also repaired a paving patch on 5th and Elko. The project was completed on time and on budget on 1/7/26.

WATER

1. Alpine Camp – The State Water Resources Control Board engaged NV5 (engineering consultant) to prepare technical studies, environmental studies and real estate appraisals and to support a grant application to connect Alpine Camp to the City water and sewer systems. The grant request was submitted to the state on 12/31/25 with some documents pending. Work will now begin on the Water application.

BUILDINGS

1. Community Center Complex Project – The project is mostly completed. There are a few small things pending that are scheduled to be fully completed by 1/20/26. The library is planning to move into their space mid-February and the City team with the Boys and Girls Club will start their operations 1/26/26.

The ribbon cutting ceremony is scheduled for 1/10/2026.

2. Well 4 – Maggiora Brothers Drilling has been directed to clean and repair this Well as authorized at the 11/03/2025 Council meeting. They have now started the work and are conducting tests. City staff has assisted them with staging equipment on site.

3. Staff cleans the Vosti Center restrooms daily. Staff cleans the Council Chambers weekly. Staff orders all supplies for City buildings and disburses them appropriately.

STREETS

1. 2025 Slurry Seal Contract – The contract with Pavement Coatings has been executed and the field work began with the contractor removing striping and cracking filling the streets to be slurry sealed.

The slurry seal work was completed on 11/7/2025. SB 1 reports regarding the project’s completion were submitted to the State on 12/23/25.

2. Fourth Street Pavement Rehab – Harris Assoc is preparing the construction documents to reconstruct the 100 Block of Fourth Street and the 400 and 300 blocks of Alta Minor. Harris Assoc submitted 65% plans, technical specifications and cost estimate on 8/08/2025. Staff met with Harris and Associates on 12/11/25 to discuss next steps. Harris Assoc will be submitting the construction documents soon.

3. TAMC Safe Routes to School Program - Staff engaged TL Engineering to prepare several alternatives for pedestrian safety improvements along Fifth Street from the Southbound Highway 101 on/off ramps. On 5/09/2025 TL Engineering submitted draft alternatives for City staff review. Funding is a $250,000 RSTP grant from the TAMC.

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4. Fifth Street Truck Ban – The bid opening was 7/23/2025 and a single bid of $121,436 was received.

The contract with Chrisp Company was approved at the 9/15/2025 Council meeting. Funding is $16,788 in RSTP Fair Share Reserve Funds and $113,512 in a Mid-Cycle RSTP Grant from the Transportation Agency for Monterey County. We received the Caltrans Encroachment Permit. The contract has been executed; signs have been ordered and are being shipped. The installation is set to begin on 1/26/26.

5. Staff continue to fill potholes around town, especially in the Industrial park.

6. During the rainstorms we had a few trees go down and staff was quick to respond and clean them up.

Weekly sampling on the industrial plants
PARKS

1. Staff mows turf areas in the City parks regularly. Staff cleans restrooms, cleans trash, and make repairs as needed. Staff repair and maintain irrigation in Central and Centennial Park.

Daily parks cleanup

2. Staff assist with community park reservation needs on weekends.

3. Staff continues to weed and clean Bio Swales and the redwoods regularly, including trimming of hedges that need to be addressed.

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GOVERNMENT BUILDING
Staff clean the Vosti Center restrooms daily. Staff cleans the Council Chambers weekly. Staff orders all supplies for City buildings and disburses them appropriately.

EVENTS
Staff assisted with the set up of the ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Community Center on 1/10/2026.

Other Efforts

1. Staff tests for chlorine residual daily, and maintenance on the water system. Staff repairs chlorine leaks and performs maintenance on the wells.

2. For the month of December, all water samples taken at the sampling stations for the water system tested negative for coliform.

3. There were 78 door tags distributed for water shut offs prior to shut offs. We had 16 disconnects because of non-payment.

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City of Gonzales

FINANCE DEPARTMENT

STAFF REPORT
TO: Honorable Mayor Rios and City Council
DATE: January 20, 2026
FROM: Mike Howard, Finance Director
THROUGH: Carmen Gil, City Manager
SUBJECT: Resolution No. 2026-02 Amendment to the Classification Plan - Minimum Wage 2026

RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the City Council of the City of Gonzales adopt Resolution No.2026-02, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Gonzales Approving an Amendment to the City of Gonzales Classification Plan for the Fiscal Year 2025-2026.

BACKGROUND
Each year, the City is required to adopt a Summary of Job Classifications and Salary Schedule, which reflects all Council approved classifications and compensation. Amendments to the Schedule may occur during the fiscal year and are submitted to Council for approval.

On January 1, 2026, California State law increases the 2026 minimum wage to $16.90 per hour for all employers regardless of the number of employees. As a result, it is necessary to make adjustments to some of the City’s part-time hourly pay rates. A Resolution and updated FY 25/26 Salary Schedule are attached for Council consideration.

REVIEW AND ANALYSIS
In June 2025, the City Council adopted the FY 2025/26 Budget, which included the Summary of Job Classifications and Salary Schedule. This Amendment to the FY 2025/26 Salary Schedule is necessary to memorialize the increase in minimum wage for some of the City’s part-time positions in Recreation that are currently set at the 2025 minimum wage in order to avoid compaction between subordinates and supervisors.

The proposed increases are as follows:

AGENDA
ITEM
12 Packet Pg. 28
Classification 2025 Hourly Rate 2026 Hourly Rate % of Increase Pool Manager $19.30 $19.70 2.07%
Assistant Pool Manager $18.60 $19.00 2.15%
Senior Life Guard $17.90 $18.30 2.23%
Life Guard $17.15 $17.55 2.33%
Recreation Leader II $17.15 $17.55 2.33%
Rec Leader I/After School Aid $16.50 $16.90 2.42%
Rec Program Supervisor $17.15 $17.55 2.33%
Explain Recommendation and How it Supports the Vision
Gonzales will continue to be a safe, clean, family-friendly community, diverse in its heritage, and committed to working collaboratively to preserve and retain its small-town charm.

Explain: Paying competitive wages encourages our youth with growth opportunities.

Explain how the Recommendation Directly Implements the Mission The City Council and Staff of the City of Gonzales will realize our Vision by providing the leadership, commitment and resources necessary to provide excellent services that enhance the quality of life of our diverse community. X Yes ___No ___ NA
Explain: It is necessary for the City to comply with State Wage and Hour laws which also provides for enhanced quality of life.

City services will be delivered in a cost-effective, respectful and friendly manner to ensure the safety and well-being of the residents and the promotion of business, recreational, housing and employment opportunities in an environmentally sustainable manner. ___ Yes ___No X NA Explain: The City is required to comply with the new Minimum Wage Order effective January 1, 2026.

Strong fiscal reporting allows us to provide appropriate resources for:
• Public Safety X Yes No N/A
• Housing X Yes No N/A
• Recreation X Yes No N/A
• Environment X Yes No N/A
• Education X Yes No N/A
Explain: Please see above.

ALTERNATIVES
The following alternative are provided for Council Consideration.

1. Adopt the Resolution;

2. Modify and adopt the Resolution;

3. Do not adopt the Resolution and direct staff to consider other options; or

4. Provide staff other direction
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BUDGET IMPACT
There is no financial impact with the adoption of this resolution. Increases were factored into the FY 2025-2026 Budget when it was prepared.

CONCLUSION
It is recommended that the City Council of the City of Gonzales adopt Resolution No.2026-02, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Gonzales Approving an Amendment to the City of Gonzales Classification Plan for the Fiscal Year 2025-2026.

Attachments:

1. Resolution No. 2026-02 with Exhibit A
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RESOLUTION NO. 2026-02

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GONZALES

APPROVING AN AMENDMENT TO THE GONZALES CLASSIFICATION PLAN FOR FISCAL YEAR 2025-2026
WHEREAS, each year the City maintains job descriptions for each position and a Summary of Job Classifications and Salary Schedule that sets forth all existing job classifications and salary steps; and
WHEREAS, the adoption of an annual Summary of Job Classifications and Salary Schedule is required by CalPERS; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to make changes to the pay rates for certain part-time positions to comply with the State of California increase in minimum wage, and to avoid compaction issues in pay rates between subordinates and supervisors.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Gonzales hereby approves an amendment to the City’s FY 2025-2026 Classification Plan in the form attached hereto as Exhibit “A”, and by this reference, incorporated herein.

PASSED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Gonzales at a regular meeting duly held on the 20th day of January 2026, by the following vote:

AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS:

NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS:

ABSTAIN: COUNCIL MEMBERS:

ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS:

Jose L. Rios, The Honorable Mayor
ATTEST:

Mary Villegas, Deputy City Clerk
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Attachment: Resolution No. 2026-02 with Exhibit A (3439 : Resolution No.2026-02 Amending the Classification Plan for Minimum Wage 2026) Revised 1-20-26, Effective 01/01/26
CLASSIFICATION STEP 1 STEP 2 STEP 3 STEP 4 STEP 5 STEP 6 STEP 7 STEP 8

EXECUTIVE MANAGEMENT STAFF

CITY MANAGER
ASSISTANT CITY MANAGER $12,509.43 $13,072.36 $13,660.61 $14,275.34 $14,917.73 $15,589.03 $16,290.53 $17,023.61 DEPUTY CITY MANAGER $10,072.02 $10,525.26 $10,998.89 $11,493.84 $12,011.07 $12,551.56 $13,116.38 $13,706.62 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR $10,631.58 $11,110.00 $11,609.95 $12,132.39 $12,678.35 $13,248.88 $13,845.08 $14,468.11 PUBLIC SAFETY DIRECTOR (CHIEF OF POLICE) $11,300.85 $11,809.39 $12,340.81 $12,896.15 $13,476.48 $14,082.92 $14,716.65 $15,378.90 *PUBLIC SAFETY DIRECTOR (CHIEF OF POLICE) -
GRANDFATHERED $12,091.91 $12,636.04 $13,204.67 $13,798.88 $14,419.83 $15,068.72 $15,746.81 $16,455.42 SPECIAL PROJECTS DIRECTOR $9,592.39 $10,024.05 $10,475.13 $10,946.51 $11,439.11 $11,953.87 $12,491.79 $13,053.92 DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS $9,760.40 $10,199.62 $10,658.61 $11,138.24 $11,639.46 $12,163.24 $12,710.58 $13,282.56 *DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS - GRANDFATHERED $10,479.69 $10,951.28 $11,444.09 $11,959.07 $12,497.23 $13,059.61 $13,647.29 $14,261.42 FIRE CHIEF $9,548.18 $9,977.85 $10,426.85 $10,896.06 $11,386.38 $11,898.77 $12,434.21 $12,993.75 FIRE CHIEF - GRANDFATHERED $10,216.55 $10,676.29 $11,156.72 $11,658.78 $12,183.42 $12,731.67 $13,304.60 $13,903.31

DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT &
STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS $9,667.53 $10,102.57 $10,557.18 $11,032.26 $11,528.71 $12,047.50 $12,589.64 $13,156.17

MID-MANAGEMENT STAFF
CAPTAIN $9,641.78 $10,075.67 $10,529.07 $11,002.88 $11,498.01 $12,015.42 $12,556.11 $13,121.14 DEPUTY FIRE CHIEF $7,993.66 $8,353.37 $8,729.28 $9,122.09 $9,532.59 $9,961.56 $10,409.83 $10,878.27 RECREATION COORDINATOR/ ADMINISTRATIVE $4,685.50 $4,896.35 $5,116.69 $5,346.94 $5,587.55 $5,838.99 $6,101.74 $6,376.32 PUBLIC WORKS SUPERVISOR $5,930.67 $6,197.55 $6,476.44 $6,767.88 $7,072.44 $7,390.70 $7,723.28 $8,070.82

SUPERVISORY STAFF
POLICE SERGEANT $8,863.96 $9,262.84 $9,679.67 $10,115.26 $10,570.44 $11,046.11 $11,543.19 $12,062.63 *POLICE SERGEANT - GRANDFATHERED $9,484.45 $9,911.25 $10,357.25 $10,823.33 $11,310.38 $11,819.35 $12,351.22 $12,907.02 PUBLIC WORKS LEAD WORKER $4,719.89 $4,932.29 $5,154.24 $5,386.18 $5,628.56 $5,881.84 $6,146.53 $6,423.12 *PUBLIC WORKS LEAD WORKER - GRANDFATHERED $4,885.09 $5,104.92 $5,334.64 $5,574.70 $5,825.56 $6,087.71 $6,361.66 $6,647.93

BUILDING/MAINTENANCE STAFF
BUILDING INSPECTOR II $5,706.01 $5,962.78 $6,231.10 $6,511.50 $6,804.52 $7,110.72 $7,430.71 $7,765.09 BUILDING INSPECTOR I $4,850.10 $5,068.35 $5,296.43 $5,534.77 $5,783.83 $6,044.10 $6,316.09 $6,600.31 MECHANIC II $4,851.87 $5,070.21 $5,298.37 $5,536.79 $5,785.95 $6,046.32 $6,318.40 $6,602.73 MECHANIC I $4,485.85 $4,687.71 $4,898.66 $5,119.10 $5,349.46 $5,590.19 $5,841.75 $6,104.62 TECHNICIAN $4,485.85 $4,687.71 $4,898.66 $5,119.10 $5,349.46 $5,590.19 $5,841.75 $6,104.62 MAINTENANCE WORKER $3,712.72 $3,879.79 $4,054.38 $4,236.82 $4,427.48 $4,626.72 $4,834.92 $5,052.49

PUBLIC SAFETY STAFF
POLICE CORPORAL $7,076.95 $7,395.42 $7,728.21 $8,075.98 $8,439.40 $8,819.17 $9,216.04 $9,630.76 POLICE CORPORAL - GRANDFATHERED $7,572.34 $7,913.10 $8,269.19 $8,641.30 $9,030.16 $9,436.52 $9,861.16 $10,304.91 POLICE OFFICER $6,739.96 $7,043.26 $7,360.20 $7,691.41 $8,037.53 $8,399.22 $8,777.18 $9,172.15 *POLICE OFFICER - GRANDFATHERED $7,211.75 $7,536.28 $7,875.41 $8,229.81 $8,600.15 $8,987.15 $9,391.58 $9,814.20 FIRE CAPTAIN $5,522.70 $5,771.22 $6,030.92 $6,302.32 $6,585.92 $6,882.29 $7,191.99 $7,515.63 FIRE FIGHTER/ENGINEER $5,042.46 $5,269.37 $5,506.49 $5,754.28 $6,013.23 $6,283.82 $6,566.59 $6,862.09 POLICE SERVICES TECHNICIAN $3,539.45 $3,698.73 $3,865.17 $4,039.10 $4,220.86 $4,410.80 $4,609.29 $4,816.70 POLICE OFFICER RECRUIT $28.00

SUPPPORT STAFF
SENIOR ACCOUNTING TECHNICIAN $5,329.10 $5,568.91 $5,819.51 $6,081.39 $6,355.05 $6,641.03 $6,939.88 $7,252.17

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO THE CITY
MANAGER/DEPUTY CITY CLERK $5,329.10 $5,568.91 $5,819.51 $6,081.39 $6,355.05 $6,641.03 $6,939.88 $7,252.17 *EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO THE CITY MANAGER
DEPUTY CITY CLERK - GRANDFATHERED $5,515.63 $5,763.83 $6,023.21 $6,294.25 $6,577.49 $6,873.48 $7,182.79 $7,506.01

DEVELOPMENT SERVICES
TECHNICIAN/ADMINISTRATIVE ANALYST $4,165.49 $4,352.94 $4,548.82 $4,753.52 $4,967.43 $5,190.96 $5,424.55 $5,668.66 ACCOUNTING SPECIALIST $3,875.46 $4,049.85 $4,232.10 $4,422.54 $4,621.56 $4,829.53 $5,046.85 $5,273.96 ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT/RECORDS SUPERVISOR $4,165.49 $4,352.94 $4,548.82 $4,753.52 $4,967.43 $5,190.96 $5,424.55 $5,668.66 ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT II $3,875.46 $4,049.85 $4,232.09 $4,422.54 $4,621.55 $4,829.52 $5,046.85 $5,273.96 ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT I $3,423.74 $3,577.81 $3,738.81 $3,907.05 $4,082.87 $4,266.60 $4,458.60 $4,659.23 YOUTH PROGRAM COORDINATOR $4,033.90 $4,215.42 $4,405.12 $4,603.35 $4,810.50 $5,026.97 $5,253.19 $5,489.58 SPORTS & SENIOR PROGRAMS COORDINATOR $4,033.90 $4,215.42 $4,405.12 $4,603.35 $4,810.50 $5,026.97 $5,253.19 $5,489.58 SECRETARY $2,962.38 $3,095.68 $3,234.99 $3,380.56 $3,532.69 $3,691.66 $3,857.78 $4,031.38 RECEPTIONIST- CLERK $2,808.11 $2,934.48 $3,066.53 $3,204.52 $3,348.73 $3,499.42 $3,656.89 $3,821.45

SEASONAL/PART-TIME (HOURLY RATE)
PROJECT COORDINATOR $25.51 $26.66 $27.86 $29.12 $30.43 $31.80 COMMUNITY HEALTH WORKER $22.54 $23.56 $24.62 $25.72 $26.88 $28.09 POOL MANAGER $19.70 $20.59 $21.51 $22.48 $23.49 $24.55
ASSISTANT POOL MANAGER $19.00 $19.86 $20.75 $21.68 $22.66 $23.68 SENIOR LIFE GUARD $18.30 $19.12 $19.98 $20.88 $21.82 $22.81 LIFE GUARD $17.55 $18.34 $19.17 $20.03 $20.93 $21.87
RECREATION LEADER II $17.55 $18.34 $19.17 $20.03 $20.93 $21.87 RECREATION LEADER I/AFTER SCHOOL AID $16.90 $17.66 $18.46 $19.29 $20.15 $21.06 RECREATION PROGRAM SUPERVISOR $17.55 $18.34 $19.17 $20.03 $20.93 $21.87

CITY COUNCIL & MAYOR
CITY COUNCIL & MAYOR - MONTHLY STIPEND $400.00

CITY OF GONZALES CLASSIFICATION PLAN
FISCAL YEAR 2025-2026

FOUR AND ONE HALF-PERCENT STEP ADVANCEMENT EXCELLENCE INCENTIVES $17,916.66 MONTHLY (SALARY INDEPENDENT OF STEP SCHEDULE)

EXHIBIT A
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Attachment: Resolution No. 2026-02 with Exhibit A (3439 : Resolution No.2026-02 Amending the Classification Plan for Minimum Wage 2026) City of Gonzales

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT

STAFF REPORT
TO: Honorable Mayor Rios and City Council
DATE: January 20, 2026
FROM: Taven Kinison Brown, Community Development Director THROUGH: Carmen Gil, City Manager
SUBJECT: Resolution No. 2026-01 Easement to Enable PG&E to Serve Power to a FreewayOriented Billboard on City Property APN: 020-201-022-000

RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the City Council approve Resolution No. 2026-01, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Gonzales Authorizing the City Manager to execute an easement to enable PG&E to serve power to a freeway-oriented billboard on City property APN: 020-201-022-000.

BACKGROUND
On June 12, 2024, Legacy Signs applied for a Use Permit and Lease Agreement to build and operate an offsite advertising digital billboard sign off of 875 S. Alta Street, Gonzales, adjacent to Highway 101. On September 4, 2024, the Planning Commission considered and approved the Conditional Use Permit for the sign in question, including a recommendation from a design review committee on the colors, materials, height and placement of the sign on the City-owned property. On September 7, 2024, the City Council Approved a base 25-year Lease Agreement with Legacy Sign Company for the construction and use of the offsite advertising billboard sign on a city-owned 6+acre parcel adjacent to Highway 101 on Assessor’s Parcel Number 020-201-022-000. Building permit No. BP2025-00023 was reviewed by the city and was approved on 04/16/2025.

REVIEW & ANALYSIS
PG&E currently has power lines and an easement traversing the City Property. PG&E needs to place an additional pole and a transformer between and perpendicular to the existing PG&E line and easement to serve the new electronic billboard sign. Alpha Land Surveys, representing Legacy Signs has prepared a AGENDA
ITEM
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survey and an exhibit illustrating the additional needed easement across the city property to serve the new electronic billboard sign.

How Recommendation Supports the Vision
Gonzales will continue to be a safe, clean, family-friendly community, diverse in its heritage, and committed to working collaboratively to preserve and retain its small town charm.

Explain: This project supports our vision by enabling the city’s efforts to allow this sign, as an instrument of economic development and investment in the city.

Explain how the Recommendation Directly Implements the Mission The City Council and Staff of the City of Gonzales will realize our Vision by providing the leadership, commitment and resources necessary to provide excellent services that enhance the quality of life of our diverse community. X Yes ____ No____ N/A
Explain: This project supports our mission by committing the resources necessary to enable the construction and operation of this sign, which will generate revenue for the City to be able to provide services and enhance the quality of life in Gonzales.

City services will be delivered in a cost-effective, respectful and friendly manner to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the residents and the promotion of business, recreational, housing and employment opportunities in an environmentally sustainable manner. X Yes ____No ____ N/A Explain: See Vision explanation above.

Strong fiscal policies allow us to provide appropriate infrastructure for:
• Public Safety X Yes No N/A
• Housing X Yes No N/A
• Recreation X Yes No N/A
• Environment X Yes No N/A
• Education X Yes No N/A
Explain: See Vision above.

ALTERNATIVES
Inaction, delay or denial of the granting of the easement will prevent PG&E from providing power to the electronic billboard and will postpone or prevent a new source of revenue for the City.

BUDGET IMPACT
While there will be no monetary exchange for the granting of the easement across the City’s 6-acre parcel, the sooner the sign is in operation, the sooner the base rent and positive revenue can be generated.

CONCLUSION
Staff recommends that the City Council approve Resolution No. 2026-01, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Gonzales Authorizing the City Manager to execute an easement to enable PG&E to serve power to a freeway-oriented billboard on City property APN: 020-201-022-000.

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Attachments:

1. Resolution No. 2026-01
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RESOLUTION NO. 2026-01

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GONZALES

AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE AN EASEMENT TO ENABLE

THE PACIFIC GAS AND ELECTRIC COMPANY (PG&E) TO SERVE POWER TO A FREEWAY ORIENTED BILLBOARD ON CITY PROPERTY APN: 020-201-022-000 WHEREAS, on June 12, 2024, Legacy Signs applied for a Use Permit and Lease Agreement to build and operate an offsite advertising digital billboard sign off of 875 S. Alta Street, Gonzales, adjacent to Highway 101; and
WHEREAS, on September 4, 2024, the Planning Commission considered and approved the Conditional Use Permit for the sign in question, including a recommendation from a design review committee on the colors, materials, height and placement of the sign on the City-owned property; and WHEREAS, on September 7, 2024, the City Council Approved a base 25-year Lease Agreement with Legacy Sign Company for the construction and use of the offsite advertising billboard sign on a city-owned 6+acre parcel adjacent to Highway 101 on Assessor’s Parcel Number 020-201-022-000; and
WHEREAS, building permit No. BP2025-00023 was reviewed by the city and was approved on 04/16/2025; and
WHEREAS, PG&E currently has power lines and an easement traversing the City Property; and
WHEREAS, PG&E needs to place an additional pole and a transformer between and perpendicular to the existing PG&E line and easement to serve the new electronic billboard sign; and WHEREAS, Alpha Land Surveys, representing Legacy Signs has prepared a survey and an exhibit illustrating the additional easement across the city property to serve the new electronic billboard sign; and
WHEREAS, staff recommends that the City Council authorize the City Manager to execute the new PG&E easement as shown in Exhibit A, measuring 150 feet in length and 10 feet in width perpendicular to the existing easement and PG&E power line crossing the city property to serve the city-approved electronic billboard sign; and
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Gonzales that the City Manager is authorized to execute the new PG&E easement as shown in Exhibit A, measuring 150-feet in length and 10-feet in width perpendicular to the existing easement and PG&E power Line crossing the City Property to serve the city-approved electronic Billboard sign.

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Attachment: Resolution No. 2026-01 (3443 : Resolution No. 2026-01 PG&E Easement for Power to Billboard Sign)

Page 2 of 3 ends

PASSED AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Gonzales duly held on the 20
th day of January 2026, by the following vote:

AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS:

NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS:

ABSTAIN: COUNCIL MEMBERS:

ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
______________________________
Jose L. Rios, The Honorable Mayor
ATTEST:
______________________________
Mary Villegas, Deputy City Clerk
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Attachment: Resolution No. 2026-01 (3443 : Resolution No. 2026-01 PG&E Easement for Power to Billboard Sign) Page
3 of 3

EXHIBIT A
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Attachment: Resolution No. 2026-01 (3443 : Resolution No. 2026-01 PG&E Easement for Power to Billboard Sign) City of Gonzales

CITY ATTORNEY

STAFF REPORT
TO: Honorable Mayor Rios and City Council
DATE: January 20, 2026
FROM: Michael Rodriquez, City Attorney
THROUGH: Carmen Gil, City Manager
SUBJECT: Ordinance No. 2026-156 Authorizing the Purchase and Use of an Unmanned Aerial System (Drone) and Making Findings in Compliance with Gonzales Police Department Policy Manual 709 Military Equipment

RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the City Council to introduce, waive reading, and read by title only Ordinance No. 2026-156, An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Gonzales Authorizing the Purchase and Use of an Unmanned Aerial System (Drone) and Making Findings in Compliance with Gonzales Police Department Policy Manual 709-Military Equipment.

BACKGROUND
On June 20, 2022, the Gonzales City Council adopted Ordinance 2022-131 approving Gonzales Police Department Manual Policy 709-Military Equipment which included an inventory of the Department’s limited amount of military equipment and procedures for use and maintenance of the same. Policy 709 establishes a military equipment use policy that is consistent with the Department’s current practices, complies with the requirements of the Government Code, ensures regulation and compliance with relevant law on an ongoing basis, and provides a means for community engagement and transparency regarding the use of military equipment. As required by law, on July 17, 2023, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 2023-54 which accepted the Police Department’s first “Fiscal Year Annual Military Equipment Use Report” and renewed Ordinance 2022-131 for another year.

Since adoption of the first Annual Military Equipment Report, the Council has conducted public meetings at which it has reviewed and accepted subsequent Annual Reports and has thereafter renewed Ordinance No. 2022-131, most recently on August 18, 2025. Currently, the only military equipment possessed by the Gonzales Police Department is nine (9) semi-automatic rifles, three (3) 38mm “Less Lethal Projectile Launchers,” and an Unmanned Aerial System (“drone”). The drone is the only recent Department AGENDA
ITEM
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purchase of military equipment, approved by Ordinance 2023-141 in October of 2023. Over the last several years, the drone has been used successfully for surveillance purposes, such as during 4th of July and New Year’s Eve celebrations, for warrant service, for search and rescue operations, and for ascertaining the condition of public facilities during storm conditions.

In the latter part of 2025, the City was notified by District 3 Supervisor Chris Lopez that $2,662 in funding was available for the purchase of another drone. Such funding was specifically sought on behalf of the South County cities to facilitate drone purchases. The Police Department has indicated its desire and willingness to take advantage of this funding.

REVIEW & ANALYSIS
Pursuant to Government Code Section 7071, a law enforcement agency must obtain the City Council’s approval, by ordinance, prior to acquiring military equipment. The Gonzales Police Department has indicated its intent to purchase a new “Unmanned Aerial System,” commonly known as a “drone.” Under the provisions of Government Code Section 7070 and Gonzales Police Department Policy 709, Section 709.1, “unmanned remotely piloted aerial vehicles” are considered military equipment.

The Unmanned Aerial System in question consists of a DJI Avata 2 Fly More Combo package to be purchased from General Pacific Inc, the same company from which the City’s other drone was purchased.

The purchase would include accessories necessary for the drone’s use, such as a remote-control console, battery and charger, and also includes customer assistance. The DJI Avata 2 Fly More model is significantly smaller than the City’s other drone unit and can be used for indoor flights, such as securing a building or a residence during a search warrant service. The Avata 2 can be flown into a building prior to sending in officers and it can perch itself onto a table or countertop allowing a live video feed of the area where the officers are about to enter. This would be an extra layer of defense against a potential ambush situation.

The Avata 2 is flown on a First-Person View (FPV) platform where the pilot wears goggles that display a live video feed of the Avata 2’s camera. The Avata 2 model has propeller guards to prevent injuries to people or damage to the drone. It also features a “turtle mode” which enables the unit to flip itself over if it ends up upside down inside of an area where officers don’t have access to it. The drone currently in use by the City does not have propeller guards and is too large to be flown indoors. The Avata 2 model would also be useful at schools and businesses during active-shooter type situations. It can be flown inside of a vehicle’s open window, such as a school bus, and can be used to search for suspects hiding inside. The current Gonzales Police Department Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) pilot has previously flown the Avata 2 unit and is familiar with its flight characteristics. He has had training flying the Avata 2 inside of school buses and into other tight areas. The Police Department believes this new drone will complement the uses and service provided by the City’s existing drone.

Based on the quote from General Pacific, the cost of the drone and attendant equipment and technical assistance is $2,772.04. See Attachment A- General Pacific Inc. Quote. This price falls below the City’s threshold requiring purchases by bids. See Gonzales City Code Section 3.16.050.

As with the City’s existing drone, use of the new drone will be subject to Gonzales Police Department Policy 609, a copy of which is attached hereto as Attachment B, to enhance the Department’s mission to protect lives and property when other means and resources are not available or might be less effective. All uses must comply with all Gonzales Police Department Policies and relevant laws concerning Constitutional guarantees and privacy rights, as well as Federal Aviation Administration regulations.

Additionally, use of the drone will be overseen by the Chief of Police as the City’s Military Equipment Coordinator.

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Staff has prepared an Ordinance for Council’s consideration that after incorporating the facts set forth above, authorizes and directs the City Manager to execute a purchase order for the DJI Avata 2 Fly More Combo package for a drone, controller, and attendant equipment, as well as customer service program from General Pacific Inc. for a cost not to exceed $2,772.04. The Ordinance also directs the Police Department’s Military Equipment Coordinator to incorporate this purchase, information concerning the use of the equipment, and other relevant data in the Police Department’s Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Annual Military Equipment Use Report.

Ordinance No. 2026-156 is before the Council this evening for waiver of reading, introduction, and reading by title only. If approved, the Ordinance would come back to the Council on February 2, for consideration of adoption and be in effect thirty days thereafter.

Approval of the Ordinance is exempt from environmental review under the general rule in California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) that CEQA only applies to projects that have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment. As a purchase of equipment for law enforcement purposes, it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that this Ordinance will have a significant effect on the environment.

Explain: The proposed purchase and use of an unmanned aerial system will assist the Police Department’s efforts to maintain the health, safety and well-being of the citizens of Gonzales.

Explain how the Recommendation Directly Implements the Mission The City Council and Staff of the City of Gonzales will realize our Vision by providing the leadership, commitment and resources necessary to provide excellent services that enhance the quality of life of our diverse community. X Yes ____ No____ N/A
Explain: Providing the Police Department with tools that will enhance its efforts to maintain safety and order in the City will have a positive impact on the quality of life in the City.

City services will be delivered in a cost-effective, respectful and friendly manner to insure the safety and well being of the residents and the promotion of business, recreational, housing and employment opportunities in an environmentally sustainable manner. X Yes ____No ____ N/A Explain: See Vision explanation above.

Strong fiscal policies allow us to provide appropriate infrastructure for:
• Public Safety Yes ____ No X N/A
• Housing Yes ____ No X N/A
• Recreation Yes ____ No X N/A
• Environment Yes ____ No X N/A
• Education Yes ____ No X N/A
Explain: N/A.

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ALTERNATIVES

1. Do not introduce the ordinance for purchase of an Unmanned Aerial System.

2. Do not introduce the ordinance for purchase of an Unmanned Aerial System and provide staff with direction for modification of the ordinance or further research.

BUDGET IMPACT
Funding for the proposed purchase will come primarily from $2,662 in grant funds with the difference in the drone price coming from the police department general budget.

CONCLUSION
It is recommended that the City Council to introduce, waive reading, and read by title only Ordinance No. 2026-156, An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Gonzales Authorizing the Purchase and Use of an Unmanned Aerial System (Drone) and Making Findings in Compliance with Gonzales Police Department Policy Manual 709-Military Equipment.

Attachments:

1. Attachment A - General Pacific Inc. Quote

2. Attachment B - Gonzales PD Policy 609

3. Ordinance No. 2026-156 Drone Purchase with Exhibit A Packet Pg. 42

ATTACHMENT A
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Attachment: Attachment A - General Pacific Inc. Quote (3447 : Ordinance No. 2026-156 (Introduction) Authorizing Purcahse of a Drone) Packet Pg. 44
Attachment: Attachment A - General Pacific Inc. Quote (3447 : Ordinance No. 2026-156 (Introduction) Authorizing Purcahse of a Drone) Packet Pg. 45
Attachment: Attachment A - General Pacific Inc. Quote (3447 : Ordinance No. 2026-156 (Introduction) Authorizing Purcahse of a Drone) Packet Pg. 46
Attachment: Attachment B - Gonzales PD Policy 609 (3447 : Ordinance No. 2026-156 (Introduction) Authorizing Purcahse of a Drone)

ATTACHMENT B
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Attachment: Attachment B - Gonzales PD Policy 609 (3447 : Ordinance No. 2026-156 (Introduction) Authorizing Purcahse of a Drone) Packet Pg. 48
Attachment: Attachment B - Gonzales PD Policy 609 (3447 : Ordinance No. 2026-156 (Introduction) Authorizing Purcahse of a Drone) Packet Pg. 49
Attachment: Attachment B - Gonzales PD Policy 609 (3447 : Ordinance No. 2026-156 (Introduction) Authorizing Purcahse of a Drone) ORDINANCE NO. 2026-156

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GONZALES

AUTHORIZING THE PURCHASE AND USE OF AN UNMANNED AERIAL SYSTEM (DRONE) AND MAKING FINDINGS IN COMPLIANCE WITH GONZALES POLICE DEPARTMENT POLICY MANUAL POLICY 709-MILITARY EQUIPMENT
WHEREAS, Government Code Section 7071 et seq. codifies Assembly Bill 481 and requires legislative bodies to adopt ordinances approving the purchase and use of military equipment; and
WHEREAS, on June 20, 2022, the Gonzales City Council adopted Ordinance 2022-131 approving Gonzales Police Department Policy Manual Policy 709- Military Equipment which included an inventory of the Police Department’s limited amount of military equipment and procedures for use and maintenance of the same; and
WHEREAS, Gonzales Police Department Policy Manual Policy 709 establishes a military equipment use policy that is consistent with the Police Department’s current practices, complies with the requirements of the Government Code, ensures ongoing regulation and compliance with AB 481, and that will continue to provide a means of community engagement and transparency regarding the use of military equipment by the Department; and WHEREAS, since 2023, the City has reviewed and approved by resolution yearly Military Equipment Use Reports prepared by the Police Department, and has renewed Ordinance 2022-131 on an annual basis; and
WHEREAS, in October of 2023, the City Council approved Ordinance 2023-141 which authorized the purchase of an Unmanned Aerial System (“drone”) for police department use; and WHEREAS, pursuant to Government Code Section 7070 and Gonzales Police Department Policy Manual Policy 709, Section 709.1, “unmanned remotely piloted aerial vehicles” are considered military equipment and the drone has been listed and its use has been discussed in the City’s Military Equipment Use Reports since the date of purchase; and WHEREAS, the drone has been used successfully for surveillance purposes, such as during 4th of July and New Year’s Eve celebrations, for warrant service, for search and rescue operations, and for ascertaining the condition of public facilities during storm conditions; and WHEREAS, the Gonzales Police Department wishes to take advantage of a grant obtained by District 3 Supervisor Chris Lopez to purchase another drone, the Avata 2 Fly More model; and
WHEREAS, the Avata 2 model is significantly smaller than the City’s other drone unit and can be used for indoor flights, such as securing a building or a residence during a search Packet Pg. 50
Attachment: Ordinance No. 2026-156 Drone Purchase with Exhibit A (3447 : Ordinance No. 2026-156 (Introduction) Authorizing Purcahse of a warrant service, can be flown into a building prior to sending in officers and it can be located on a table or countertop allowing a live video feed of the area where the officers are about to enter, and would also be useful at schools and businesses during active-shooter type situations; and WHEREAS, pursuant to Government Code Section 7071, a law enforcement agency must obtain approval of the City Council by ordinance prior to acquiring military equipment such as the Avata 2 drone.

NOW THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GONZALES DOES HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:

Section 1. Findings. All of the recitals set forth above are true and correct and by this reference are adopted as findings of the City Council as though set forth in full within the body of this ordinance.

Section 2. Acceptance of Police Department Representations. The City Council acknowledges receipt of and accepts the following representations from the Gonzales Police Department concerning the Department’s proposed acquisition and use of an Unmanned Aerial System:

1. The Police Department desires to purchase an Unmanned Aerial System consisting of an Avata 2 Fly More Combo package for a drone, controller, and attendant equipment.

2. The Department will use the equipment in accordance with Gonzales Police Department Policy 609-Unmanned Aerial System, to enhance the Department’s mission of protecting lives and property when other means and resources are not available or are less effective.

Proposed uses include enforcement efforts to secure a building or a residence during a search warrant service and during active-shooter type situations at business and school facilities.

3. The cost of the drone, and attendant equipment and technical assistance, is $2,772.04.

4. In using the drone, the City will comply with all Gonzales Police Department Policies and relevant laws concerning Constitutional guarantees and privacy rights, as well as Federal Aviation Administration regulations.

5. The City currently has an officer with the FAA Part 707 license required to operate the system and the Department has another officer also being trained for licensing.

6. Use of the drone will be overseen by the Chief of Police as the City’s Military Equipment Coordinator.

7. Complaints or concerns about the use of the drone can be made to the City pursuant to Section 709.10 of Policy 709.

Section 3. Approval of Purchase. After due consideration of the Police Department’s Request, any public comment provided on the matter, and the representations set forth in this ordinance, the City Council approves the purchased of an Avata 2 Fly More Unmanned Aerial System, including a drone and attendant equipment, from General Pacific, Inc. for a cost not to exceed Two Thousand Seven Hundred Seventy Two Dollars and Four Cents ($2,772.04), and hereby authorizes and directs the City Manager to execute a purchase order and/or any other related documents associated with the purchase of said equipment. A copy of the Quote from General Packet Pg. 51
Attachment: Ordinance No. 2026-156 Drone Purchase with Exhibit A (3447 : Ordinance No. 2026-156 (Introduction) Authorizing Purcahse of a Pacific is attached hereto as Exhibit A. Section 3.16.050 of the Gonzales City Code exempts this purchase from bid procedures since the cost is below the established $50,000 bid threshold.

Section 4. Post Purchase Responsibilities. The Military Equipment Coordinator and Staff are directed to incorporate this purchase, information concerning the use of the equipment, and other relevant data in the Police Department’s Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Annual Military Equipment Use Report.

Section 5. Severability. Every section, paragraph, clause, and phrase of this Ordinance is hereby declared severable. If, for any reason, any section, paragraph, clause, or phrase is held to be invalid or unconstitutional, such invalidity or unconstitutionality shall not affect the validity or constitutionality of the remaining section, paragraphs, clauses, or phrases.

Section 6. CEQA. Approval of this ordinance is exempt from environmental review under the general rule in California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) that CEQA only applies to projects that have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment. As a purchase of equipment for law enforcement purposes, it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that this Ordinance will have a significant effect on the environment.

Section 5. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days following its final passage. The City Clerk is directed to cause copies of this Ordinance to be posted or published as required by Government Code Section 36933.

This Ordinance was introduced and first read by the City Council of the City of Gonzales at a regular meeting on the 20th day of January, 2026 and PASSED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Gonzales at a regular meeting on the ___ day of February, 2026 by the following vote:

AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS:

NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS:

ABSTAIN: COUNCIL MEMBERS:

ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS:

Jose L. Rios, The Honorable Mayor
ATTEST:

Mary Villegas, Deputy City Clerk
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Attachment: Ordinance No. 2026-156 Drone Purchase with Exhibit A (3447 : Ordinance No. 2026-156 (Introduction) Authorizing Purcahse of a

EXHIBIT A
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Attachment: Ordinance No. 2026-156 Drone Purchase with Exhibit A (3447 : Ordinance No. 2026-156 (Introduction) Authorizing Purcahse of a Packet Pg. 54
Attachment: Ordinance No. 2026-156 Drone Purchase with Exhibit A (3447 : Ordinance No. 2026-156 (Introduction) Authorizing Purcahse of a Packet Pg. 55
Attachment: Ordinance No. 2026-156 Drone Purchase with Exhibit A (3447 : Ordinance No. 2026-156 (Introduction) Authorizing Purcahse of a

Gonzales City CouncilJanuary 20, 2026

Gonzales City Council
January 20, 2026