Agenda packet — Gonzales City Council, February 17, 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, FEBRUARY 17, 2026
5:30 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 (will participate remotely from 2030 S Avenue 3E, Yuma, AZ, USA 85365), Council/Agency Member Lorraine Worthy, Council/Agency Member Maria Orozco, Mayor/Chair Jose L. Rios
Successor Agency Item

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.

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]

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.

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

PRESENTATIONS

3. Introduction of New City Employee

*
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 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.

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 - February 2, 2026 Minutes

6. Approve Accounts Payable Warrants #53353-53415

7. City Manager’s Report

8. Community Development Department Activity Report

9. Community Engagement & Recreation Departments Activity Report

10. Fire Department Activity Report

11. Police Department Activity Report

12. Public Works/City Engineer Department Activity Report

13. Consider Adding a Finance Manager Position to the Position Allocations for FY 2025-2026

14. Consider Approval of Resolution No. 2026-03, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Gonzales Accepting the 2025 Sewer Manhole Rehabilitation Project as Complete, Authorizing Staff to Record a Notice of Completion and Release Retention Monies to the Contractor

15. Consider Approval of Resolution No. 2026-05, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Gonzales Authorizing the Execution of Amendment #1, Extension of Memorandum of Understanding Between the City of Gonzales and the Gonzales Police Officers Association, for the Period Covering January 1, 2026 through June 30, 2026; and Resolution No. 2025-06, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Gonzales Authorizing the Execution of Amendment #1, Extension of Memorandum of Understanding Between the City of Gonzales and the Gonzales Police Supervisor Officers Association, for the Period Covering January 1, 2026 through June 30, 2026

16. Consider Approval of Resolution No. 2026-07, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Gonzales Authorizing the Execution of Amendment #1, Extension of the Memorandum of Understanding Between the City of Gonzales and the International Association of Fire Fighters Local 5388, for the period covering January 1, 2026 through June 30, 2026

17. Consider Approval of Resolution No. 2026-08, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Gonzales Authorizing a One-Time Lump Sum Payment to the Unrepresented City staff Similar to the Public Safety 2026 MOU Extensions

REGULAR AGENDA

18. Consider Approval of Resolution No. 2026-04, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Gonzales Submitting to the Voters at the General Municipal Election to be Consolidated with the Statewide General Election Held on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, a Measure That Would Implement a Special Parcel Tax to be Levied on Properties Within the City Based on Land Use to Fund Fire and Emergency Medical Services to be Provided in the City of Gonzales a) Staff Report
b) Public Comment
c) Council Discussion
d) Council Action
Staff Recommended Action-Adopt Resolution No. 2026-04

GONZALES YOUTH COUNCIL UPDATES

19. 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 COUNCIL

20. Appoint an Alternate Member to the South Salinas Valley Broadband Authority

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

22. Oral Communications

BUSINESS FROM CITY MANAGER

23. Oral Communications

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.

24. The City Council will recess to Closed Session pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(D)(2) to confer with Its Attorney- Significant Potential Exposure to Litigation.

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 Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at 5:00p.m. 02/11/26
Mary Villegas Date

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MINUTES

JOINT MEETING OF THE

GONZALES CITY COUNCIL AND

GONZALES SUCCESSOR AGENCY
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2026
6:00 P.M.

CALL TO ORDER
The meeting was called to order at 6:00 PM by Mayor Jose L. Rios.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Pro Tem Silva led the flag salute.

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

YOUTH COMMISSIONERS PRESENT
Shelby Anderson and Orlando Rodriguez.

STAFF PRESENT
City Manager Carmen Gil, City Attorney Michael F. Rodriquez, Community Development Director Taven Kinison Brown, Executive Assistant to the City Manager/Deputy City Clerk Mary Villegas, Administrative Assistant II Marisol Gomez, Fire Chief Jason Muscio, and Police Chief Keith Wise. * Successor Agency Item
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Minutes Acceptance: Minutes of Feb 2, 2026 6:00 PM (CONSENT AGENDA) AGENDA
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BUSINESS FROM THE PUBLIC

2. 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.

Michael Trevino, Gonzales Resident, talked about agricultural roots and strong work ethic being a big part of what makes this City special, and expressed his intention to develop a storage facility project at 122 Bodega Street, and said he would focus on working collaboratively with City staff and respect the City's established processes.

Andrew Brown expressed his opinions on the City’s attire and commented about a police vehicle speeding in the alley, new library’s faucets, getting an adult bike from the event, and City’s social media posts.

CONSENT AGENDA

3. Approve the Joint City Council & Successor Agency - Regular Meeting - January 20, 2026 Minutes

4. Approve Accounts Payable Warrants #53262-53352
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Liz Silva, Mayor Pro Tem
SECONDER: Maria Orozco, Council Member
AYES: Jose L. Rios, Liz Silva, Lorraine Worthy, Maria Orozco EXCUSED: Scott Funk

REGULAR AGENDA

5. Consider Approval of an Agreement Between the City of Gonzales and the Monterey County Regional Fire Protection District for Fire Chief Services Staff Report: Fire Chief Muscio presented the staff report.

Public Comment: There was none.

Council Discussion: Fire Chief Muscio responded to the Council Members questions regarding day-to-day presence from the district, and station location. City Manager Gil also talked about paramedic capacity for responses and clarified our Firefighters would still be the first responders.

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Minutes Acceptance: Minutes of Feb 2, 2026 6:00 PM (CONSENT AGENDA)

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She mentioned the services would be in situations where the department needs additional support when a Chief is needed and clarified that our Firefighters would be in constant communications with the Chief during a response.

David Sargenti, Fire Chief for the Monterey County Regional Fire District, looked forward to helping the City, and emphasized the camaraderie they have with the Gonzales Fire Department, bringing their engines in town and Gonzales Department going to the Chualar Station for department training.

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

6. Public Hearing to Consider Waiver of Second Reading, Read by Title Only, and Adopt 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 Staff Report: City Attorney Rodriquez presented the staff report.

Mayor Rios opened the public hearing at 6:18pm.

Public Hearing: Andrew Brown asked how the public would be educated about what the police department has and said he didn't see any AI on it.

Mayor Rios asked Chief Wise if he could answer the question.

Police Chief Wise mentioned that the education was part of the process tonight, introducing the ordinance at the last meeting, coming back for adoption tonight, and it was also part of the policy for drone usage. He said this met the criteria under State and Federal laws and that is what the Department is doing, including ongoing training program, and staff continuing the training on a monthly basis to test flights, and staff will do the same with the new one.

Mayor Rios closed the public hearing at 6:22pm.

City Attorney Rodriquez added that the Police Department is required on an annual basis to bring forward to the Council a list of all the equipment they have, how many times it's been deployed, how much the cost of servicing it, and inventory. The list is on the City's website under the Police Department page and anyone who is interested would be able to find that information, as well as the policies that govern the use of military equipment.

City Manager Gil added the drone has also been highlighted in the City Manager's Report, it's been taken to the National Night Out for public viewing, etc. She said the Department will continue to put the information out there and this was an effort to better equip our Police Department with all tools available to make sure the community stays safe.

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Minutes Acceptance: Minutes of Feb 2, 2026 6:00 PM (CONSENT AGENDA)

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

GONZALES YOUTH COUNCIL UPDATES

7. Oral Communications
Commissioners Anderson and Rodriguez reported on their community project, community food pantry, outcomes of their January 22nd meeting, meeting with Public Works Supervisor Diaz, planning of the annual South County Youth Summit, and Gonzales High School activities.

Mayor Pro Tem Silva announced that Youth Commissioner Orlando recently participated in a speech competition through FFA and won a placement, so he'll be moving on to regionals.

BUSINESS FROM CITY COUNCIL

8. City Council Board/Committee Reports
a. Transportation Agency for Monterey County
Mayor Rios reported on the project updates for the Highway 156, Highway 68 corridor, and Highway 101 environmental stage, as well as the gas tax replacement session. b. Mayor Selection Committee
Mayor Rios announced the meeting this Friday.
c. Salinas Valley Recycles
Mayor Pro Tem Silva reported they announced Cesar Zuñiga as the General Manager for the Salinas Valley Solid Waste Authority, who lived in Gonzales and worked for the Authority for 25 years. She reported on the compost giveaway and announced the next meeting on February 19th at 6:00pm in the Council Chambers.

9. Oral Communications
Council Member Worthy reported on the MST meeting where they discussed that buses will be operating on the weekend schedule, and the circulators will have a different schedule effective February 17th because they will be eliminating the Industrial Park stop location. She also thanked everyone who reached out to her during her surgery.

Mayor Pro Tem Silva encouraged residents to attend Chair Yoga on Tuesday at 9:00am at the Taylor Farms Family Health and Wellness Center, and announced the Senior Lunch on Thursday, February 19th at 11:00am at St. Theodore's Parish Hall; she will be attending legislative update February 25th in Sacramento, and asked if there was anything that the Council wants her to ask while there.

Council Member Orozco asked Council Member Worthy if she could inquire from MST if we can have one of the buses go to Corda Camp since she has had folks ask. She also asked Mayor Pro Tem Silva if she can ask if there is any funding for small rural towns for first-time Homebuyer Programs since we have a couple of our housing projects that are coming up. She announced the St. Theodore's Church Valentine's Dance on February 14th, and Ash Wednesday Lenten enchiladas dinner from 11:00am - 5:00pm. Anyone interested could pick up tickets from her or the church.

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Minutes Acceptance: Minutes of Feb 2, 2026 6:00 PM (CONSENT AGENDA)

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Mayor Rios reported on the power to the sign on the south end of town which was finalized last week and encouraged staff to send a letter of gratitude to PG&E since it took a monumental effort of all the departments involved in getting this project to creation. He shared concerns about the noise at the Industrial Park and asked staff if they can check the decibel levels at Taylor Farms operations. On another note, since the Community Center Phase 1 was complete, he asked the City Manager how much funding was left in the pot. He said he wanted to know what we had left to work with so that maybe since now that folks can actually see it complete, we can get things going. He asked when the amphitheater was going to be available and in regard to the Teen Center, he suggested contacting the School District Board about collaborating and paying for part of it since he felt we, as the City, shouldn’t pay 100% and it was for the benefit of the youth in the community. He felt this would be better for the youth and the community as a whole for the Teen Center to empower, expand, and create better human beings, and he hoped they can work collaboratively and talk about how many days they would want to man it. He also said he will ask Supervisor Lopez regarding a multitude of programs or services that can be available at the local library and for our schools to take advantage of resources available for the community. He asked if he could get a flyer with the times and different programs available so he can provide them to whoever asks him.

Council Member Orozco suggested that once the groups get settled with their programs, they can come before the Council to do a quick presentation.

BUSINESS FROM CITY MANAGER

10. Oral Communications
City Manager Gil announced the City will be receiving two awards at the American Public Works Association event on February 4th, one for the Community Center project and the other one for the Industrial Wastewater Facility Pipeline Project. She informed today was our new Public Works/City Engineer Octavio Hurtado’s first day and he will be introduced at the next Council meeting. She talked about the partnership with Greenfield for the Bike Repair Workshop held last Friday; Savor the Local last food distribution on February 4th; monthly Chair Yoga, art and cooking classes for seniors; Boys and Girls Club programming at the Teen Center on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays, as well as City drop in services for Teens on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. She added that staff was working on potential partnerships for more programming.

She also informed on the work that was still being done at the community center and she will share more information with the Council for the different programs and activities.

Council Member Orozco shared her disappointment with the Salvation Army food distribution ending. She asked if other South County Cities were being impacted, and if they applied for funding from Measure K again this year. She asked the Mayor if he could ask the other Mayors at his next meeting if they have been impacted.

City Manager Gil responded they didn’t apply this year, and she was told the Salvation Army was not coming anymore to South County because their funding has been cut drastically.

Community Development Director Kinison Brown reported the new sign company was bringing their electrician tomorrow, and the City Manager’s office will reach out to the Council for their availability for the ribbon cutting ceremony.

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Minutes Acceptance: Minutes of Feb 2, 2026 6:00 PM (CONSENT AGENDA)

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ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Rios asked to adjourn the meeting with a moment of silence in memory of Jimmy Nielsen, a local business owner and family man who passed this past Saturday. He also said he wanted to mention, because it was extremely sad, about an alcohol related death. He mentioned Nathan Ruiz, a young man from our community also passed last weekend driving out of Soledad. He said he didn't know if he was drunk, but definitely the driver was drunk. He said he didn’t get it if someone is going to drink, sit home and drink but why get on the road.

A moment of silence was observed by all present.

RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Liz Silva, Mayor Pro Tem
SECONDER: Maria Orozco, Council Member
AYES: Jose L. Rios, Liz Silva, Lorraine Worthy, Maria Orozco EXCUSED: Scott Funk
The meeting was adjourned at 6:59 PM.

ATTEST:

Mary Villegas, Deputy City Clerk
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Minutes Acceptance: Minutes of Feb 2, 2026 6:00 PM (CONSENT AGENDA) Packet Pg. 10
Attachment: Warrants #53353-53415 (3466 : Approve Accounts Payable Warrants #53353-53415) AGENDA
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Attachment: Warrants #53353-53415 (3466 : Approve Accounts Payable Warrants #53353-53415) Finally on April 27th we celebrated a day that so many of us have been waiting for – the Gonzales kicked off 2026 with a bang! We opened the Dennis and Janice Caprara Community Center Complex on January 10th and had hundreds of Gonzales supporters come out and joined us in the festivities. It was a true community event filled with warm hearts and joyful faces. A dream come true for many who for years envisioned a place like this in their hometown of Gonzales! We would like to thank everyone that made it possible – all the donors, the foundations, the USDA, the grantors, Senator Caballero and all those who contributed to the project in one way or another. Thank You to the Gonzales Youth Council for having the vision and to the Gonzales City Council for continuing to prioritize youth leadership and development, and their continued intentional efforts to support the young people of Gonzales. Thank you!!!!
The Center is now open and being run with the support of multiple partners. The Boys and Girls Club is programming the Center Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays; and the City Recreation Team, Olinga Learning and others, are working to provide programming on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturday mornings.

Electronic Billboard
Next up, we have the unveiling of our new electonic
billboard. It has been constructed and thanks to PG&E
has been powered up and is ready to go. It should be
up and running mid-February. It’s quite a sight to see if you haven’t spotted it yet off the 101 heading south of the Winery.

City of Gonzales
City Manager Report
January 2026
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Attachment: City Manager Report January 2026 (3471 : City Manager Report - January 2026) AGENDA
ITEM
7 5th Street Truck Ban
The Gonzales City Council adopted Ordiance No. 2019-113 preventing the passage of long-haul trucks down 5th Street towards the Industrial Agricultural Park. This effort was enacted to protect the deteriorating infrastrucutre and ensure the safety of pedestrians passing through that area. Signs will be posted along Highway 101 letting truckers know to take the Alta Street and La Gloria Road exits instead. Please spread the word so that truckers know the best route to use.

Gonzales Fire Department Parcel Tax
The City Council will be considering a Parcel Tax Measure that would go out to the electors on the June 2, 2026 election to support the Fire Department’s staffing and it’s operations at their meeting of Feburary 17th. With costs continuing to rise, the City needs to look at other ways to sustain this essential service. Without this funding, the Department’s operations would be negatively impacted and response times would be delayed, putting us all at risk. Funding generated through the measure would strictly go to the Fire Department and there would be local oversight to ensure that is the case. For more information, visit the City’s website at gonzalesca.gov.

The Gonzales Fire Department will also be hosting an open house in late February to answer questions from the public about their needs and why this is important. Be on the lookout for the date.

Save the Date:

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Attachment: City Manager Report January 2026 (3471 : City Manager Report - January 2026) City of Gonzales

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT

ACTIVITY REPORT
TO: Honorable Mayor Rios and City Council
DATE: February 17, 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. City staff and the Pembrook team are putting the final touches on the City’s application package to LAFCo for Annexation.

The Housing Element. Placeworks Inc. continues in 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. The City is presently underway collecting responses from responsible and trustee agencies for items to include in the EIR document under way in its preparation.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
The Freeway Oriented Electronic Billboard. As of Monday February 9, 2026, the sign is fully constructed and powered. A ribbon cutting ceremony is being coordinated for the week of February 17, 2026.

BUILDING DIVISION ACTIVITY
From January 1, 2026 – January 31, 2026 (31 reporting days) the City issued 6 permits for fire sprinklers, two ADUs and two re-roofs. The estimated value of improvements was $289,714.60.

AGENDA
ITEM
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CODE ENFORCEMENT
The City continues to meet with property owners, inspect potential violations and start documentation to progress to remedies. In January, reports of unregistered vehicles parking on city streets, and potential health and dis-repair concerns at an apartment complex. Apartment repair and health concerns need further examination by the City Code Enforcement officer, and a case has been opened.

CITY BUSINESS LICENSES
The city continues to actively review business activity in Gonzales and has made progress in bringing local businesses not operating with business licenses to become compliant.

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City of Gonzales

CITY MANAGER DEPARTMENT

STAFF REPORT
TO: Honorable Mayor Rios and City Council
DATE: February 17, 2026
FROM: Carmen Gil, City Manager
SUBJECT: Community Engamement & Recreation Departments Activity Report Current Activities
Kid Power
• We began January by wrapping up the final week of Winter Camp, welcoming 21 campers for a fun and engaging week. The children especially enjoyed continuing to use the 3D pens, which remain a favorite activity. Salinas Valley Recycling also joined us to lead interactive recycling games and reinforce the importance of proper recycling practices. To celebrate their participation, campers were able to choose prizes from our used book collection, which they were thrilled about.
• In January, the Kid Power After School program served 24 students. After a three-week break, students needed time to readjust to homework and reading routines. While we noticed that some students needed refreshers on skills from before the break, staff worked closely with them to provide support and help everyone get back on track. We are now focusing on strengthening AGENDA
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academic readiness for the coming months through sight word practice and math flashcards. For students who continue to need additional support, we collaborate with parents and teachers to identify areas where we can best assist.

City Sports League
• Our Youth Basketball League Skills assessments took place on January 14th and 15th. Our numbers almost doubled from December. We gained an additional seventy-four participants. We have a total of 160 registered participants. Our girls league has fifty participants. Our youngest all female’s division, 7U girls has one team of ten and our 10U division has two teams, one of twelve and the other thirteen participants. Our 13U girls have one team of fifteen participants. Our PreKTK division has a total of thirty-four participants and four teams. Our all-boys league has a total of seventy-six participants amongst its four divisions. Our numbers grew in our PreK-TK and our girls division this year by 50%. Unfortunately, they also dropped in our all-boys division by 20%. • We started our first games on January 31st. This season we collaborated with Soledad in adding a few more of our divisions to compete in their league. We added our Kinder-first and our 4th-5th grade teams to their travel league. The players and parents are enjoying the new experience. Our league will continue until mid-March.
• Our South County Girls Softball League registration is still going. We have twenty-two registered participants and five coaches that have registered so far. Our season will start in March. • Our Mini T-ball registration is slowing moving. We have eight registered participants. League does not start until April. Our numbers will pick up my March.

Recreation/ Community Engagement
• We met with TMD Creative to begin the planning process for the development of a new City website; this includes identifying overall goals and working with each City department to review which existing content should be carried over, as well as gathering input on desired features for the new site. We hope to create a user-friendly website that provides clear access to accurate, upto-date information for the community. We are excited to move forward and look forward to the final launch!
• The Community Center officially opened on Saturday, January 26, and we had a great turnout! Currently operating with one available room while construction continues in other areas. The Boys & Girls Club utilizes the center on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. During the first week, staff promoted the opening by distributing flyers to students after school, which resulted in 18 teens attending over those three days. Teens were welcomed with snacks and provided time for homework support.
• The City operates programming at the center on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Outreach efforts included sharing flyers with Fairview to distribute through Parent Square, as well as Youth Council members encouraging peers to attend. During the City’s three operating days, a total of 11 teens participated.

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• One ongoing challenge is that some teens are unsure whether the center is open due to the continued construction of the teen lounge and library. We will continue outreach efforts to clarify availability and encourage participation as construction progresses • Our partners at the Greenfield Science Workshop and TAMC hosted a bike repair workshop on Friday, January 30 from 3-6PM at the new Dennis and Janice Caprara Community Center. The event was a hit, and we were very excited to see community members of all ages take advantage of this workshop and walk away with free bikes! Thank you to our partners that have been able to provide this service to our community for the past few years.

Gonzales Youth Council
• For the month of January, the GYC held one regular meeting as they transitioned back from winter break. During the meeting, they were able to meet with Public Works Supervisor, Martin Diaz, and discuss the possibility of revamping the Food Pantry that was previously stationed at Central Park.
• The Gonzales Youth Council, in collaboration with the Cities of Soledad and Greenfield Youth Councils, has begun the planning process for the 3rd Annual South County Youth Summit. The event is scheduled for Saturday, May 2, and will be hosted this year in Gonzales at the Dennis and Janice Caprara Community Center.

Based on student interest, several workshops have already been confirmed, including Budget Management, Pedestrian Safety, and Cooking Healthy Meals. Youth participants have also scheduled their planning meetings leading up to the event and will transition into committee work at their next convening to support a more efficient and organized planning process.
• Another exciting step the students have taken is opening an application for GHS students interested in contributing to their action projects by designing artwork for the Community Pantry. Two students submitted applications, and both will be moving forward to participate in creating the mural that will be displayed at the pantry.

Activities in the Planning Phase
Wings of Knowledge will begin programming in February on a weekly basis and will be providing interactive, hands-on STEAM activities for Fairview Middle School students.

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City of Gonzales

FIRE DEPARTMENT

ACTIVITY REPORT
TO: Honorable Mayor Rios and City Council
DATE: February 17, 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 January. Due to some issues with new reporting software, I am unable to provide a breakdown of call type. However, there were no significant calls to report during the month. Most were routine medical emergencies and vehicle accidents.

STAFFING
All full-time positions are filled. There are three active Volunteer Firefighters that work shifts as time allows. The Monterey County Regional Fire District (MCRFD) is providing Duty Chief coverage for our Fire Department on a mutual aid basis, with a formal agreement to provide services taking effect on February 1, 2026.

TRAINING
Crews have been participating in training scenarios with the Engine company from MCRFD Chualar station, including drafting and ladder operations, as well as hose deployment in large occupancies. Inhouse training on forcibly entry and fireground tactics was also conducted on an engine company level incorporating the Volunteer Firefighters.

EQUIPMENT
Patrol 8151 was out of service for several days with a battery charging issue. All other apparatus are in service.

AGENDA
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PREVENTION
No inspections were conducted during the month of January. The inspection program is on pause as we work on developing new internal procedures for conducting and documenting inspections that can be performed by our Fire Captains.

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City of Gonzales

POLICE DEPARTMENT

ACTIVITY REPORT
TO: Honorable Mayor Rios and City Council
DATE: February 17, 2026
FROM: Keith Wise, Chief of Police
THROUGH: Carmen Gil, City Manager
SUBJECT: January 2026 Activity Report
Crime and Arrests
The Gonzales Police Department investigated 6 Part I Crimes (Homicide, Robbery, Theft, Burglary, Rape, Assault and Motor Vehicle Theft) during the month of January 2026. During the same time last year, there were 9 Part I Crimes investigated.

During the month of January 2026, Officers made 13 arrests. During the same time last year, there were a total of 10 arrests.

During the month of January 2026, the Department initiated 13 Abandoned Vehicle Abatement (AVA) / 72-hour parking violation cases. 13 violations were self-abated by the registered owners upon notification of the Municipal Code Violation.

Calls for Service
The Department responded to 547 calls for service in January 2026. There were 50 crimes, accidents, and information reports taken during the month.

Animal Control
During the month of January 2026, the Animal Control Officer (ACO) provided the following services:

Animal Control Trapped/Stray Dead Injured Bite Cases Returned to Owner Transported to SPCA Cats 1 1 0 0 0 0
Dogs 3 0 0 0 2 1
Total = 4 1 0 0 2 1

AGENDA
ITEM
11 Packet Pg. 27
Significant Cases
Although the Police Department responded to 547 calls for service during the month of January 2026, the most significant cases involved 6 Part I crimes. 0- Homicide 0-Rape, 0-Robbery, 5-Assault, 0-Burglary, 1-Larcenies, and 0-Stolen Motor Vehicle Thefts.

Training
The Department continues to conduct in-house training.

Corporal Castillo attended an 8-hour Drone Awareness training on January 25, 2026, in San Jose Ca.

Other
On January 10, 2026, the Department in conjunction with the Monterey County SPCA hosted a vaccination clinic at the Police Department.

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City of Gonzales

PUBLIC WORKS / CITY ENGINEER DEPARTMENT

ACTIVITY REPORT
TO: Honorable Mayor Rios and City Council
DATE: February 17, 2026
FROM: Octavio Hurtado, Public Works Director/City Engineer THROUGH: Carmen Gil, City Manager
SUBJECT: Public Works/City Engineer Department Activity Report

WASTEWATER
Public Works is working on daily basis to maintain control of the WWTP. Staff continue to check the influent and effluent, run daily inspections and testing of Dissolved Oxygen levels, pH, and conductivity daily.

Staff have been making progress on general plant maintenance and cleanup. Staff have initiated weed abatement efforts taking advantage of the dry weather. Staff have completed the repair of several levees that were not accessible during the past rainy season. Staff are also providing maintenance to the pond aerators addressing mechanical issues and successfully getting two nonfunctioning aerators to operate.

Given that aeration is one of the key methods of treatment, staff will continue to develop a plan to quickly bring more functioning aerators online.

Due to the capacity needs of the plant, Gateway allowed the City to use the new ponds as holding ponds to prevent the City’s existing domestic ponds from overflowing. This has allowed Pond D to be emptied to remove sediment and disk. The City has also implemented a clarifying system that is treating 600,000 gallons per day cleaning the flows coming out of the secondary ponds and pumping into Pond D. We are looking into upsizing the outflow pipe from 4” to 8” to increase the treatment to our actual daily flows.

The intent is to stop using the Industrial Ponds as any further use may jeopardize the construction schedule of the Industrial Plant.

Currently, the existing plant disposal ponds are maintaining the influent daily flow. Staff is developing a plan to empty out Pond C to clean and rip while pond D, and other available ponds are filling. The intent is to always work on getting a pond empty to disk and rip to promote percolation.

AGENDA
ITEM
12 Packet Pg. 29
Packet Pg. 30
Industrial Wastewater Treatment Facility – The Contractor (Gateway Pacific) began construction on 7/21/2025. The contractor, construction manager, design consultant, and City staff hold 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 is currently working on installing necessary piping. Due to the capacity needs of the plant, Gateway allowed the City to use the new ponds as holding ponds to prevent ponds from overflowing. Staff will be assessing the existing domestic well to see if it can be used at the Industrial headworks to eliminate the designed tanked water system that will eliminate the need to truck water in.

Rehabilitation of Brick Sewer Manholes – The bid opening for rehabilitation of two sewer manholes on Fifth Street was 10/23/2025. The contract was awarded to Don Chapin Company at the 11/03/2025 Council meeting and construction occurred while the schools were closed for winter break. Staff is closing out the project.

WATER
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. A kick-off meeting was held on 7/23/2025 and the project team holds monthly coordination meetings. Most recently, Staff met with NV5 and Greg Piini, the real estate appraiser, to discuss necessary utility and construction easements to present to the existing landowner. In addition to the easements, funding agreements between the City and the State need to be in place prior to advertising the project for construction.

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

Maggiora Brothers is still in the process of refurbishing Well 4.

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

Weekly sampling on the industrial plants
There were 76 door tags this month, prior to shut offs. We had 15 disconnects because of non-payment.

Packet Pg. 31
PARKS
Staff continue to mow turf areas in the City parks regularly. Staff cleans restrooms, cleans trash, and make repairs in parks as necessary. Staff also repaired and maintained irrigation in Central, Vosti and Centennial Park.

Staff continues to assist community park reservation needs on weekends.

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

Staff is currently working with the GYC to set up a food pantry distribution station that is going to be placed at the community garden.

GOVERNMENT BUILDING
Staff continue to clean the Vosti Center restrooms daily, clean the Council Chambers weekly and order all supplies for City buildings and disburses them appropriately.

Staff are also addressing trash outside the Community Center.

STREETS
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 February 6, 2026 to get updated on the project. An item of concern was the condition of the sewer manholes. The plan moving forward is to assess the manholes in question and review the funding sources and assess the project against funding opportunities if combined with complete streets objectives. The goal is to have the project advertised and constructed in 2026.

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. Staff is reviewing the draft alternatives provided and will be in contact with TAMC to make sure the project is in line with the participatory program recommendations. The most cost-effective way to implement these improvements will be to add them to a street project such as the Fourth Street Paving Project.

TAMC Vision Zero – Staff met with the Vision Zero Project Manager on 7/11/2025 and discussed potential traffic safety project to be designed and implemented. On 8/28/2025 a draft list of safety projects was emailed for city staff’s review. Staff will be reviewing the list of recommended safety projects and aligning them with future street improvement projects.

Fifth Street Truck Ban – Bid opening for the traffic signs for the truck ban was 7/23/2025 and a single bid of $121,436 was received. Staff awarded this contract 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. The Contractor submitted an Encroachment Permit to Caltrans for the work in the State right of way on January 7, 2026. On February 4, 2026, the City received a response to the permit application denying approval as proposed requiring a resubmittal addressing their concerns. The concerns require moving the location of some signs, modifications/replacement of existing Packet Pg. 32
destination sign instead of adding a new sign near an existing sign. Staff are coordinating the response to Caltrans to address their concerns for encroachment permit approval.

Staff continue to fill potholes, especially in the Industrial Park.

Staff have started re-painting the existing Keep Clear lettering on the Gonzales River Rd area.

EVENTS
Staff assisted with the setting up of Zumba classes held in the Community Center.

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City of Gonzales

CITY MANAGER DEPARTMENT

STAFF REPORT
TO: Honorable Mayor Rios and City Council
DATE: February 17, 2026
FROM: Carmen Gil, City Manager
SUBJECT: Consider Adding a Finance Manager Position to the Position Allocations for FY 2025-2026

RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the City Council allow the City Manager to add a Finance Manager Position to the Authorized Position Allocations for FY 2025-2026.

BACKGROUND
With Greens Accounting giving the City notice of their release of contract and withdrawing Finance Director services, it is imperative that the City Manager be allowed to start looking at other options to fill the gaps left behind. Approving the addition of a Finance Manager will allow the City Manager to assess and confer with the current Finance Director about the City’s needs, available budget and the type of position that best meets the growing needs of the City. Adding this now gives the City Manager the flexibility needed to be able to move forward as soon as possible with the process of recruitment with the intent of having someone potentially overlap with the current Finance Director before he departs at the end of March.

REVIEW AND ANALYSIS
A job description, compensation study, and budget analysis are currently being conducted to assess what type of position makes the most sense to bring on as the City fills the gaps left behind with the departure of Greens Accounting. The City will have to figure out how to continue with Accounts Payable, Payroll and Finance through other means. Because these things can be complex and require differing specialties, the City Manager needs to be given some flexibility as to how to best address these needs going forward. Having the ability to recruit and hire a Finance Manager, if that is the best option, allows the City to move forward with the transition.

AGENDA
ITEM
13 Packet Pg. 34
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: It is imperative that the City Manager be able to move quickly with a position that can fill the gaps left behind with the departure of our Finance Director.

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 City Council can determine that this is not the best course of action and ask staff to go back and reevaluate. This is not ideal as it would take up more time and reduce any potential overlap we may have with the current Finance Director and Greens Accounting.

BUDGET IMPACT
The impact to the budget is still being determined given that the compensation study is still in process and the City Manager and Finance Director are still determining which position best fits the City’s needs and what it can afford.

CONCLUSION
It is recommended that the City Council allow the City Manager to add a Finance Manager Position to the Authorized Position Allocations for FY 2025-2026.

Attachments:

1. Authorized Positions FY 25-26
Packet Pg. 35
DEPARTMENT 2023-24 2024-25 2025-26 CLASSIFICATION
CITY COUNCIL 1.00 1.00 1.00 Mayor

4.00 4.00 4.00 Council Members

5.00 5.00 5.00 TOTAL - COUNCIL
PLANNING COMM 5.00 5.00 5.00 Planning Commissioner

5.00 5.00 5.00 TOTAL - PLANNING COMMISSIONER
ADMINISTRATION 1.00 1.00 1.00 City Manager

1.00 1.00 1.00 Executive Assistant to the City Manager/Deputy City Clerk

0.00 0.00 0.00 Assistant City Manager

2.00 2.00 2.00 Administrative Assistant II

4.00 4.00 4.00 TOTAL - ADMINISTRATION
COMMUNITY & 1.00 1.00 1.00 Community/Economic Development Director ECONOMIC DEV 1.00 1.00 1.00 Development Services Tech/Admin analyst

2.00 2.00 2.00 TOTAL - COMMUNITY & ECONOMIC DEV
COMMUNITY 1.00 0.00 0.00 Community Engagement & Stratigic Partnerships Director

ENGAGEMENT

1.00 0.00 0.00 TOTAL - COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
FINANCE 1.00 1.00 1.00 Finance Manager

1.00 1.00 1.00 Sr. Accounting Technician

1.00 1.00 2.00 TOTAL - FINANCE
POLICE 1.00 1.00 1.00 Police Chief

1.00 1.00 1.00 Capitan

2.00 2.00 2.00 Police Sergeant

2.00 2.00 2.00 Police Corporal

8.00 8.00 8.00 Police Officer

2.00 2.00 2.00 Administrative Assistant II

1.00 1.00 1.00 Police Services Technician

17.00 17.00 17.00 TOTAL - POLICE
FIRE 1.00 1.00 1.00 Fire Chief

3.00 3.00 3.00 Lieutenants

3.00 3.00 3.00 Firefighters

7.00 7.00 7.00 TOTAL - FIRE
RECREATION 1.00 1.00 1.00 Recreation Coordinator / Admin Analyst

1.00 1.00 1.00 Sports & Senior Program Coordinator

1.00 1.00 1.00 Youth Program Coordinator

4.00 4.00 4.00 TOTAL - RECREATION
PUBLIC WORKS 1.00 1.00 1.00 Public Works Director / City Engineer

1.00 1.00 1.00 Public Works Supervisor

1.00 1.00 1.00 Lead Worker

1.00 1.00 1.00 Technician

1.00 1.00 1.00 Mechanic

6.00 6.00 6.00 Maintenance Worker

11.00 11.00 11.00 TOTAL - PUBLIC WORKS

57.00 56.00 57.00 TOTAL AUTHORIZED POSITIONS
POSITION ALLOCATION - FY 2025/26

AUTHORIZED POSITIONS BY FISCAL YEAR
Packet Pg. 36
Attachment: Authorized Positions FY 25-26 (3470 : Adding a Finance Manager Position to the Position Allocations for FY 2025-2026) City of Gonzales

PUBLIC WORKS / CITY ENGINEER DEPARTMENT

STAFF REPORT
TO: Honorable Mayor Rios and City Council
DATE: February 17, 2026
FROM: Octavio Hurtado, Public Works Director/City Engineer THROUGH: Carmen Gil, City Manager
SUBJECT: Resolution 2026-03 Accepting the 2025 Sewer Manhole Rehabilitation Project as Complete

RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the City Council Adopt Resolution No. 2026-03, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Gonzales Accepting the 2025 Sewer Manhole Rehabilitation Project as Complete, Authorizing Staff to Record a Notice of Completion and Release Retention Monies to the Contractor.

BACKGROUND
The two sewer manholes on Fifth Street, just east of Elko Street, needed to be rehabilitated due to the vehicle traffic on Fifth Street. City staff and MNS Engineers prepared the construction documents (plans, technical specifications, and cost estimate) for this contract. The scope of work consists of the replacement of two sewer manholes on Fifth Street, including traffic control and sewer bypass pumping.

The contractor performed the work while GUSD schools were on their holiday break in December/early January.

The construction documents (plans, technical specifications, and cost estimate) for the project were prepared by MNS Engineers. The project replaced two manholes on Fifth Street, including traffic control and sewer bypass pumping.

This project was issued for bids on September 22, 2025, construction documents were provided to the Central Coast Builders Exchange in Salinas and the Santa Clara/San Benito County Builders Exchange.

On October 23, 2025, the City received three bids for the project and the lowest responsive and responsible bid was provided by Don Chapin Company of Salinas CA.

AGENDA
ITEM
14 Packet Pg. 37

REVIEW & ANALYSIS
At the November 3, 2025, City Council Meeting, a contract was awarded to the Don Chapin Company in the amount of $114,001 with a contingency of $10,999, for a total authorization of $125,000.

Construction consisted of the following work:

1. Rehabilitation of two sanitary sewer manholes

2. Traffic Control

3. Sewer bypass pumping
MNS Engineers performed Construction Management/Inspection services on the project. Their efforts included material submittal reviews, field inspections, reviewing/processing progress payments, coordinating the contractor’s questions with MNS Engineers (Design Engineer).

The Don Chapin Company began field operations in late December 2025 and was substantially completed in mid January.

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: Completing the Sewer Manhole Rehabilitation Wastewater Lift Station Rehabilitation Project supports our visions by improving City infrastructure.

Explain: This significant capital improvement project will improve the operation of the City’s Wastewater Transmission Network
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.

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.

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ALTERNATIVES
a) Direct staff to not accept this project.
b) Amend or modify staff recommendation.

BUDGET IMPACT
This project was funded through city Sewer Enterprise Funds. There was one Change Orders processed for a total additional cost of $32,750 to repair the existing asphalt which is more than $10,999 of the authorized construction contract, but an asphalt repair expanded the scope beyond the scope of this manhole replacement project. The change order provided necessary and needed improvements to the street surface adjacent to this project. The change order will be paid through Measure X funds.

CONCLUSION
It is recommended that the City Council Adopt Resolution No. 2026-03, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Gonzales Accepting the 2025 Sewer Manhole Rehabilitation Project as Complete, Authorizing Staff to Record a Notice of Completion and Release Retention Monies to the Contractor.

Attachments:

1. Resolution No. 2026-03
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RESOLUTION NO. 2026-03

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GONZALES ACCEPTING THE 2025 SEWER MANHOLE REHABILITATION PROJECT AS

COMPLETE, AUTHORIZING STAFF TO RECORD A NOTICE OF COMPLETION

AND RELEASE RETENTION MONIES TO THE CONTRACTOR
WHEREAS, the two sanitary sewer manholes at Fifth Street were in installed decades ago using brick and mortar and staff has noticed the deterioration of the manhole walls; and WHEREAS, On October 23, 2025, the City received three bids for the project, and the lowest responsive and responsible bid was provided by the Don Chapin Company of Salinas, California; and
WHEREAS, at the November 3, 2025 City Council Meeting, a $125,000 contract with the Don Chapin Company was authorized; and
WHEREAS, the Don Chapin Company began field operations in mid December 2025 and construction was deemed substantially complete on January 30, 2026; NOW THEREFORE BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Gonzales that the 2025 Sewer Manhole Rehabilitation Project is hereby accepted.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that within ten days of adoption of this Resolution, City staff shall file with the County Recorder a Notice of Completion and release retention monies to the Contractor.

PASSED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Gonzales at a regular meeting duly held on the 17th 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
Packet Pg. 40
Attachment: Resolution No. 2026-03 (3462 : Resolution No. 2026-03 Accepting the 2025 Sewer Manhole Rehabilitation Project as Complete) City of Gonzales

FINANCE DEPARTMENT

STAFF REPORT
TO: Honorable Mayor Rios and City Council
DATE: February 17, 2026
FROM: Mike Howard, Finance Director
THROUGH: Carmen Gil, City Manager
SUBJECT: Resolution No. 2026-05 - Extension of Gonzales Police Officers Association Memorandum of Understanding and Resolution No. 2026- 06 - Extension of Gonzales Police Supervision Association Memorandum of Understanding

RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the City Council adopt:
• Resolution No. 2026-05, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Gonzales Authorizing the Execution of Amendment Number One, Extension of Memorandum of Understanding Between the City of Gonzales and the Gonzales Police Officers Association, for the Period Covering January 1, 2026 through June 30, 2026; and
• Resolution No. 2025-06, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Gonzales Authorizing the Execution of Amendment Number One, Extension of Memorandum of Understanding Between the City of Gonzales and the Gonzales Police Supervisor Officers Association, for the Period Covering January 1, 2026 through June 30, 2026.

BACKGROUND
In January 2025, the City of Gonzales executed a Memorandum of Understanding for both Gonzales Police Officers Association (GPOA) and Gonzales Police Supervision Association (GPSA) for a one-year agreement, for the period of January 1, 2025 through December 31, 2025.

About December 2025, the City of Gonzales was notified by GPOA and GPSA of their desire to open negations for a new successor Memorandum of Understanding. The now merged two associations and the City began negotiations. After a few meetings, the parties agreed on a Tentative Agreement on February 6, 2026, for a six month extension of the current MOUs.

AGENDA
ITEM
15 Packet Pg. 41
The City was notified on February 6, 2026 that the association had ratified the Tentative Agreement.

REVIEW AND ANALYSIS
As referenced in the background, the City and the Police Associations began negotiations for a successor Memorandums of Understanding for the two expiring Memorandums of Understanding.

During the period of negotiations, the two parties came to a final Tentative Agreement on February 6, 2026. Key items in the new MOU for the City of Gonzales Police Officers are listed below. • The current MOU’s will be extended six (6) months, expiring June 30, 2026. • Effective ratification of the City Council, the City will pay in a Lump Sum the following:
o Sergeants $2,800.00
o Corporals $2,400.00
o Officers $1,900.00
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: The proposed MOU supports the vision by maintaining stability for the six-month period in a critical public safety function that is necessary to maintain a safe family-friendly community.

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: Please see explanation above for the Vision.

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. __X_ Yes ___No _ NA Explain: Please see explanation above for the Vision
Strong fiscal reporting allows us to provide appropriate resources for:
• Public Safety X Yes No N/A
• Housing Yes No X N/A
• Recreation Yes No X N/A
• Environment X Yes No N/A
• Education Yes No X N/A
Explain: A stable organization is needed to ensure the high level of service necessary to promote public safety for the community and to maintain the City’s infrastructure.

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ALTERNATIVES
The City Council has the authority to not approve the extension and direct staff to continue negotiations with further policy direction. While this action is not recommended, should this occur, the existing employment practices would continue until MOUs are approved.

BUDGET IMPACT
There is no financial impact to the current fiscal year budget. The lump sum payments will be covered by the current City Council approved budget.

CONCLUSION
It is recommended that the City Council adopt:
• Resolution No. 2026-05, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Gonzales Authorizing the Execution of Amendment Number One, Extension of Memorandum of Understanding Between the City of Gonzales and the Gonzales Police Officers Association, for the Period Covering January 1, 2026 through June 30, 2026; and
• Resolution No. 2025-06, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Gonzales Authorizing the Execution of Amendment Number One, Extension of Memorandum of Understanding Between the City of Gonzales and the Gonzales Police Supervisor Officers Association, for the Period Covering January 1, 2026 through June 30, 2026.

Attachments:

1. Resolution No. 2026-05 GPOA Amendment #1

2. Resolution No. 2026-06 GPSA Amendment #1

3. GPOA-GPSA MOU Amendment #1
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RESOLUTION NO. 2026-05

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GONZALES AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF AMENDMENT #1, EXTENSION OF

MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE CITY OF GONZALES

AND THE GONZALES POLICE OFFICERS ASSOCIATION, FOR THE PERIOD COVERING JANUARY 1, 2026 THROUGH JUNE 30, 2026
WHEREAS, the City of Gonzales and the Gonzales Police Officers Association entered into a one-year MOU for the period of January 1, 2025 through December 31, 2025; and WHEREAS, the City was notified by the Gonzales Police Officers Association in December 2025 to begin negotiations for a successor MOU; and WHEREAS, the City and the Association began negotiations in December 2025 and reached a Tentative Agreement on February 6, 2026 for a six-month extension of the current Memorandum of Understanding; and
WHEREAS, the Gonzales Police Officers Association held a ratification vote shortly after the tentative agreement. The City was notified on February 6, 2026 the MOU extension was ratified by the membership.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Gonzales hereby approves Amendment #1 to the Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Gonzales and the Gonzales Police Officers Association, for the period covering January 1, 2026 through June 30, 2026.

PASSED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Gonzales at a regular meeting duly held on the 17th 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
Packet Pg. 44
Attachment: Resolution No. 2026-05 GPOA Amendment #1 (3467 : Resolution No. 2026-05 and Resolution No. 2026-06 GPOA-GPSA MOU RESOLUTION NO. 2026-06

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GONZALES AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF AMENDMENT #1, EXTENSION OF

MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE CITY OF GONZALES

AND THE GONZALES POLICE SUPERVISOR OFFICERS ASSOCIATION, FOR THE PERIOD COVERING JANUARY 1, 2026
THROUGH JUNE 30, 2026
WHEREAS, the City of Gonzales and the Gonzales Police Supervisor Officers Association entered into a one-year MOU for the period of January 1, 2025 through December 31, 2025; and
WHEREAS, the City was notified by the Gonzales Police Supervisor Officers Association in December 2025 to begin negotiations for a successor MOU; and WHEREAS, the City and the Association began negotiations in December 2025 and reached a Tentative Agreement on February 6, 2026; and
WHEREAS, the Gonzales Police Supervisor Officers Association held a ratification vote shortly after the tentative agreement. The City was notified on February 6, 2026 the new MOU was ratified by the membership.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Gonzales hereby approves Amendment #1 to the Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Gonzales and the Gonzales Police Supervisor Officers Association, for the period covering January 1, 2026 through June 30, 2026.

PASSED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Gonzales at a regular meeting duly held on the 17th 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
Packet Pg. 45
Attachment: Resolution No. 2026-06 GPSA Amendment #1 (3467 : Resolution No. 2026-05 and Resolution No. 2026-06 GPOA-GPSA MOU

CITY OF GONZALES

AND THE

GONZALES POLICE SUPERVISOR AND OFFICER ASSOCIATIONS
AMENDMENT #1
EXTENSION OF THE JANUARY 1, 2025 TO DECEMBER 31, 2025 MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING TO JUNE 30, 2026
Section 3: PAY RATE AND PRACTICES, SUBSECTION A: SALARY INCREASES:

Apon ratification by the City Council of the City of Gonzales, a Lump-Sum payment payable in a separate check will be paid out as follows:

Sergeants: $2,800.00
Corporal: $2,400.00
Officer: $1,900.00
Section 10: TERM: The term is a six (6) months extension of the current MOU to June 30, 2026.

All other terms and conditions of the January 1, 2025 through December 31, 2025 Memorandum of Understanding remain in effect.
_________________________________ __________________________________ Carmen Gil, City Manager Cesar Castillo, GPOA Representative _________________________________ _____________________________________ Mike Howard, Finance Director Miguel Perez-Laguna, GPOA Representative ____________________________________
Craig MacDonald, Association Negotiator
Packet Pg. 46
Attachment: GPOA-GPSA MOU Amendment #1 (3467 : Resolution No. 2026-05 and Resolution No. 2026-06 GPOA-GPSA MOU Amedment #1) City of Gonzales

FINANCE DEPARTMENT

STAFF REPORT
TO: Honorable Mayor Rios and City Council
DATE: February 17, 2026
FROM: Mike Howard, Finance Director
THROUGH: Carmen Gil, City Manager
SUBJECT: Resolution No. 2026-07 International Association of Fire Fighters Local 5388 Amendment #1 to the Memorandum of Understanding

RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the City Council adopt Resolution No. 2026-07, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Gonzales Authorizing the Execution of Amendment #1, Extension of the Memorandum of Understanding Between the City of Gonzales and the International Association of Fire Fighters Local 5388, for the period covering January 1, 2026 through June 30, 2026.

BACKGROUND
In May 2025, the City of Gonzales reached an agreement and City Council approved a new Memorandum of Understanding with the International Association of Fire Fighters Local 5388 for a period covering January 1, 2025 through December 31, 2025.

About January 2026, the City was notified by the Association of their desire to enter into negotiations for a successor agreement. The association agreed to a six-month extension of the current MOU.

The City was notified on February 11, 2026 that the Tentative Agreement reached was ratified by the Local 5388 on February 11, 2026.

REVIEW AND ANALYSIS
As referenced in the background, the City and the International Association of Fire Fighters Local 5388 began negotiations for a successor Memorandums of Understanding for the expiring Memorandum of Understanding.

AGENDA
ITEM
16 Packet Pg. 47
During the period of negotiations, the two parties came to a final Tentative Agreement regarding a six-month extension of the current MOU. Key items in the new MOU for the City of Gonzales Fire Fighters are listed below.
• Amendment of the current MOU resulted in a six-month extension to June 30, 2026. • In consideration of the six-month extension. the following will be paid upon ratification by the City Council of the City of Gonzales:
o Lieutenant $2,000.00
o Firefighter $1,500.00
• All other terms and conditions of the current MOU will remain in effect.

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: The proposed MOU supports the vision by maintaining stability for the six-month period in a critical public safety function that is necessary to maintain a safe family-friendly community.

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. X Yes ___No NA Explain: Please see explanation above for the Vision
Strong fiscal reporting allows us to provide appropriate resources for:
• Public Safety X Yes No N/A
• Housing Yes No X N/A
• Recreation Yes No X N/A
• Environment X Yes No N/A
• Education Yes No X N/A
Explain: A stable organization is needed to ensure the high level of service necessary to promote public safety for the community and to maintain the City’s infrastructure.

ALTERNATIVES
The City Council has the authority to not approve the Amendment to the MOU and direct staff to continue negotiations with further policy direction. While this action is not recommended, should this occur, the existing employment practices would continue until a MOU is approved.

BUDGET IMPACT
Packet Pg. 48
There is no financial impact to the current fiscal year budget. The amount of the negotiated agreement is in line with the budget.

CONCLUSION
It is recommended that the City Council adopt Resolution No. 2026-07, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Gonzales Authorizing the Execution of Amendment #1, Extension of the Memorandum of Understanding Between the City of Gonzales and the International Association of Fire Fighters Local 5388, for the period covering January 1, 2026 through June 30, 2026.

Attachments:

1. Resolution No. 2026-07

2. IAFF MOU Amendment #1
Packet Pg. 49
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-07

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GONZALES AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF AMENDMENT #1, EXTENSION OF THE

MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE CITY OF GONZALES AND THE INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF FIRE FIGHTERS LOCAL 5388, FOR THE PERIOD COVERING JANUARY 1, 2026
THROUGH JUNE 30, 2026
WHEREAS, the City of Gonzales and the International Association of Fire Fighters Local 5388 entered into a one-year MOU for the period of January 1, 2025 through December 31, 2025; and
WHEREAS, the City was notified by the International Association of Fire Fighters Local 5388 in January 2026 to begin negotiations for a successor MOU; and WHEREAS, the City and the Association began negotiations in January 2026 and reached a Tentative Agreement on February 11, 2026; and
WHEREAS, the City of Gonzales was notified on February 11, 2026 that the International Association of Fire Fighters Local 5388 ratification of the Tentative Agreement.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Gonzales hereby approves the Amendment #1 to the Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Gonzales and the International Association of Fire Fighters Local 5388, for the period covering January 1, 2026 through June 30, 2026.

PASSED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Gonzales at a regular meeting duly held on the 17th 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
Packet Pg. 50
Attachment: Resolution No. 2026-07 (3468 : Resolution No. 2026-07 IAFF MOU Amendment #1)

CITY OF GONZALES

AND THE
LOCAL 5388, INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF FIRE FIGHTERS
AMENDMENT #1
EXTENSION OF THE JANUARY 1, 2025 TO DECEMBER 31, 2025 MEMORANDUM

OF UNDERSTANDING
PAY RATE AND PRACTICES:

Apon ratification by the City Council of the City of Gonzales a Lump-Sum payment payable in a separate check will be paid out as follows:

Lieutenant: $2,000.00
Firefighter: $1,500.00
TERM: The City proposes a 6 months extension of the current MOU to June 30, 2026.

All other terms and conditions of the January 1, 2025 through December 31, 2025 Memorandum of Understanding remain in effect.

Tentative Agreement:
_________________________________ ___________________________________ Carmen Gil, City Manager David Vasquez, Association President _________________________________ ___________________________________ Mike Howard, Finance Director Tony Spitaleri, Association Representative Packet Pg. 51
Attachment: IAFF MOU Amendment #1 (3468 : Resolution No. 2026-07 IAFF MOU Amendment #1) City of Gonzales

FINANCE DEPARTMENT

STAFF REPORT
TO: Honorable Mayor Rios and City Council
DATE: February 17, 2026
FROM: Mike Howard, Finance Director
THROUGH: Carmen Gil, City Manager
SUBJECT: Resolution No. 2026-08 Authorizing a One-Time Lump Sum Payment to the Unrepresented City Staff Similar to the Public Safety 2026 MOU Extensions

RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the City Council adopt Resolution No. 2026-08, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Gonzales Authorizing a one-time lump sum payment to the unrepresented City staff similar to the Public Safety 2026 MOU Extensions.

BACKGROUND
The Gonzales Police Officers Association and Local 5388 International Association of Fire Fighters have agreed to a six-month extension of the 2025 MOU’s that will run through June 30, 2026.

The City wishes to treat the unrepresented employees in a similar manner and propose a lump sum payment for the period of January 2026 through June 2026 in lieu of a COLA. In July 2026, the City will reevaluate its financial position and consider an appropriate COLA.

REVIEW AND ANALYSIS
In June 2025, the City Council adopted the FY 2025-2026 Budget, which included the Summary of Job Classifications and Salary Schedule. The approved budget included and estimated salary increase at that time with assumptions that additional revenue sources would be found. Staff believes that the proposed one-time lump sum payment is an equitable alternative until the City can ensure a new revenue source is secured for the future.

AGENDA
ITEM
17 Packet Pg. 52
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 assists in employee retention and satisfaction.

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.

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 adopt Resolution No. 2026-08, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Gonzales Authorizing a one-time lump sum payment to the unrepresented City staff similar to the Public Safety 2026 MOU Extensions.

Attachments:

1. Resolution No. 2026-08
Packet Pg. 53
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-08

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GONZALES

AUTHRORIZING A ONE-TIME LUMP SUM PAYMENT TO THE

UNREPRESENTED CITY STAFF SIMILAR TO THE PUBLIC SAFETY
2026 MOU EXTENSIONS
WHEREAS, the Gonzales Police Officers Association and the Local 5388, International Association of Fire Fighters have agreed to a six-month extension of the 2025 MOU’s. The City wishes to treat the unrepresented City staff in the same manner; and WHEREAS, City unrepresented staff will receive a one-time lump sum payment. In July 2026, the implementation of a COLA will be considered.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Gonzales hereby approves a one-time lump sum payment to the City unrepresented staff similar to what was approved for the public safety employees.

PASSED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Gonzales at a regular meeting duly held on the 17th 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
Packet Pg. 54
Attachment: Resolution No. 2026-08 (3469 : Resolution No. 2026-08 Authorizing One Time Lump Sum Payment to Unrepresented City Staff) City of Gonzales

CITY MANAGER DEPARTMENT

STAFF REPORT
TO: Honorable Mayor Rios and City Council
DATE: February 17, 2026
FROM: Carmen Gil, City Manager
SUBJECT: Resolution No. 2026-04 Submitting to the Voters at the General Municipal Election to be Consolidated with the Statewide General Election Held on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, a Measure that Would Implement a Special Parcel Tax to be Levied on Properties Within the City Based on Land Use to Fund Fire and Emergency Medical Services to be Provided in the City of Gonzales

RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the City Council adopt Resolution No. 2026-04, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Gonzales Submitting to the Voters at the General Municipal Election to be Consolidated with the Statewide General Election Held on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, a Measure That Would Implement a Special Parcel Tax to be Levied on Properties Within the City Based on Land Use to Fund Fire and Emergency Medical Services to be Provided in the City of Gonzales.

BACKGROUND
In years past, the Gonzales Fire Department (GFD) was run by a team of volunteers. With recent updates to accreditation and more rigorous requirements for personnel, the volunteer system was no longer viable for the City. In 2020, to keep our Fire Department fully functional with fire and emergency medical staff, the City had to bring on personnel as full-time staff. This ensured that critical service continued to be available. However, the costs to add six additional firefighters was never offset by any “new” revenue and instead has continued to deplete the general fund while emergency calls and operating costs continue to rise.

In 2025, call volumes hit 870 calls averaging 3 calls for emergency services a day. The department has also struggled to keep up with equipment needs, making replacements almost impossible. It took 14 years to finally acquire the funds to purchase a new fire engine, and it was only made possible through the support of the County’s CDBG funds.

AGENDA
ITEM
18 Packet Pg. 55
The City and the department cannot continue to operate this way. Financial sustainability is needed to ensure that we retain qualified medical and fire safety staff, especially given the City’s proximity to emergency departments/services.

REVIEW AND ANALYSIS
Despite the City’s prudent and fiscally responsible funding efforts, the City cannot continue to operate a fully functioning department that already depends on the bare minimum staffing level of two firefighters around the clock. The City has pursued other funding efforts to no avail, and it finds itself in dire need of financial resources to maintain the department’s operations. In 2025, after looking at its funding options, the City engaged a consultant to determine whether the public would support a parcel tax similar to the tax that had been adopted in Greenfield to finance fire and emergency medical services.

Based on the results of surveys and comments received from the public on related informational materials, staff has now prepared Resolution No. 2026-04 calling for a local municipal election to be consolidated with the statewide general election on June 2, 2026, at which a ballot measure establishing a new parcel tax in the City of Gonzales would be considered by the City’s voters.

Resolution No. 2026-04, prepared in accordance with relevant provisions of the California Constitution, Government Code and Elections Code, contains a copy of the proposed tax ordinance which would levy a new annual tax on parcels of property in the City at a rate of $349.00/single family unit, $262.00/multiunit, and $148.00-$201.00 plus $.07 per square foot for non-residential parcels, all adjusted annually. It is estimated that the new parcel tax would provide approximately $665,000 in revenue per year. All tax revenues collected by application of the new parcel tax would be used exclusively for 911 emergency medical/fire response, subject to independent audit and City oversight. The new tax would remain in place until ended by the voters.

In adopting Resolution No. 2026-04, the City Council would approve the content and form of the proposed parcel tax ordinance and its submission to the voters of the City at the June 2, 2026 consolidated Statewide election. (In placing the ordinance on the ballot, the City does not follow the usual first and second reading process used for council ordinance adoption.) Because the parcel tax is for a single purpose, it is by law considered a special tax and would require the approval of a two-thirds majority of the voters voting on the measure at the election. All tax revenues collected by application of the new parcel tax would be used exclusively for 911 emergency medical/fire response, such as the purchase of much needed equipment, subject to independent audit and City oversight. The new parcel tax would remain in place until ended by the voters.

Resolution No. 2026-04 also approves, authorizes and/or directs compliance with a number of other matters related to the proposed election, such as the City Attorney’s preparation of an impartial analysis of the tax measure, identification of the parties authorized to prepare ballot arguments and rebuttals by specified dates and the process for acceptance of the same, and various noticing and publication requirements. Additionally, the resolution contains the language of the official question that will appear on the ballot, prepared in accordance with legal requirements, which reads as follows:

To ensure fire/emergency medical 911 response, including 24-hour staffing, updated lifesaving equipment/training, and disaster preparedness, shall the City of Gonzales’ measure, levying an annual parcel tax of $349.00/single family unit, $262.00/multi-unit, $148-$201 plus $.07 per building square foot for non-residential parcels, adjusted annually, providing approximately $665,000 per year until ended by voters, with funds dedicated exclusively to reliable 911 emergency medical/fire response and requiring local control/oversight, be adopted? Packet Pg. 56
Without a sustained source of additional revenue, the City will be unable to continue to operate the Fire Department as it is today. We already have a tough time keeping firefighters on staff as we are constantly competing with neighboring cities for personnel due to competing higher wages, benefit packages and specialties offered.

Explain: To ensure that the City of Gonzales continues to have qualified Firefighters/EMTs to continue to provide fire and emergency medical services, the City needs to consider adoption of a parcel tax measure in June of 2026 that can generate the much-needed funding to help sustain the local Fire Department.

Explain: The parcel tax will support the City Council’s vision of providing quality emergency and medical care for the residents of Gonzales.

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.

Explain: See Vision statement above.

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

ALTERNATIVES
The City Council could choose not to place the Parcel Tax Measure on the ballot in June 2026. However, if the Council decides not to do so, the City will have to seek other alternatives to continue funding the Fire Department and/or staff will have to look at creative ways to provide the services currently offered by the Fire Department. Services and response times would be gravely impacted if this was to occur.

BUDGET IMPACT
If the Parcel Tax were to pass, the City would generate an additional $665,000 per year to help fund the Gonzales Fire Department and its operations.

Packet Pg. 57

CONCLUSION
Staff recommends that the City Council adopt Resolution No. 2026-04, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Gonzales Submitting to the Voters at the General Municipal Election to be Consolidated with the Statewide General Election Held on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, a Measure That Would Implement a Special Parcel Tax to be Levied on Properties Within the City Based on Land Use to Fund Fire and Emergency Medical Services to be Provided in the City of Gonzales.

Attachments:

1. Resolution No. 2026-04 with Exhibits A & B
Packet Pg. 58
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-04

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GONZALES

SUBMITTING TO THE VOTERS AT THE GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION TO

BE CONSOLIDATED WITH THE STATEWIDE GENERAL ELECTION HELD ON TUESDAY, JUNE 2, 2026, A MEASURE THAT WOULD IMPLEMENT A SPECIAL

PARCEL TAX TO BE LEVIED ON PROPERTIES WITHIN THE CITY BASED ON

LAND USE TO FUND FIRE AND EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES TO BE

PROVIDED IN THE CITY OF GONZALES
WHEREAS, pursuant to Elections Code Section 10002, the governing body of the City of Gonzales may by resolution request the Board of Supervisors of the County of Monterey to permit the Monterey County Election official to render specified services to the City relating to the conduct of an election; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Elections Code Section 10002, the City of Gonzales shall reimburse the County of Monterey in full for election services performed upon presentation of a bill to the City; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Elections Code Section 10400, whenever two or more elections of any city, county, district or other political subdivision are called to be held on the same day, or in the same territory that is in part the same, they may be consolidated, either completely or partially, upon the order of the governing body or bodies or officer or officers calling the elections; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Elections Code Section 10403, whenever an election called by a city for the submission of any question, proposition or office to be filled is to be consolidated with a statewide election, and the question, proposition, or office to be filled is to appear on the same ballot as that provided for that statewide election, the city shall, at least eighty-eight (88) days prior to the date of the election, file with the board of supervisors, with a copy to the elections official, a resolution of its governing board requesting the consolidation, and setting forth the exact form of any question, proposition, or office to be voted upon at the election, as it is to appear on the ballot, and upon such request, the board of supervisors may order the consolidation; and
WHEREAS, after due consideration, the City Council of the City of Gonzales desires to submit to the voters at the June 2, 2026 consolidated general and municipal election a question relating to the imposition of a special parcel tax for fire and emergency medical services, subject to a two-thirds majority voter approval, as required by Cal. Const. art. XIIID, Section 3(2) and as allowed by Government Code Section 53970, et seq.; and, pursuant to Cal. Const. art. XIIIC, Section 2(d), Government Code Sections 50077 and 53724, Elections Code Section 9222, and the Gonzales City Code; and
WHEREAS, the tax measure to be submitted to the voters, if approved, would be imposed on an annual basis on real property located within the City of Gonzales; and Packet Pg. 59
Attachment: Resolution No. 2026-04 with Exhibits A & B (3463 : Resolution No. 2026-04 Special Parcel Tax Measure) WHEREAS, the proposed tax measure is based on the City Council’s desire to continue to provide fire and emergency medical services to the City of Gonzales by establishing long-term financial and operational stability; and
WHEREAS, without additional financial resources, the City of Gonzales will not be able to maintain the provision of effective fire and emergency medical services or purchase equipment vital to public safety services; and
WHEREAS, the City Council wishes to ensure that the City has financial resources necessary to provide these vital community services in an effort to enhance the public health, safety and welfare of the City’s constituents; and
WHEREAS, creating voter-approved funding will serve to address the continuation of adequate fire and emergency medical services; and
WHEREAS, the City will deposit all revenues it receives from the proposed parcel tax into a special fund dedicated to fire and emergency medical services; and WHEREAS, the new special parcel tax is proposed to be collected until otherwise ended by the voters; and
WHEREAS, based on all of the information presented at the February 17, 2026 regular City Council meeting, both written and oral, including the staff report and other relevant materials, the City Council finds that under California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) Guidelines Sections 15060(c)(2) and 15378, subdivisions (2) and (4) of subdivision (b), the proposed tax does not constitute a project under CEQA and therefore review under CEQA is not required.

NOW THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GONZALES does hereby resolve, declare, determine and order as follows:

SECTION I. RECITALS AND FINDINGS.

1. All of the foregoing recitals are true and correct and are incorporated herein by reference.

2. The Gonzales Fire Department (GFD) currently serves the City of Gonzales and the Gonzales Rural Fire Protection District’s approximately 11,000 people as first responders for all 911 emergency calls, including emergency medical calls and fires.

3. GFD answers over 870 calls for service annually – averaging 3 calls for emergency services every day.

4. The City has been fortunate to retain a dedicated group of professional firefighters/Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) to protect the community and respond to local 911 calls under urgent circumstances where minutes and seconds really matter, like heart Packet Pg. 60
Attachment: Resolution No. 2026-04 with Exhibits A & B (3463 : Resolution No. 2026-04 Special Parcel Tax Measure) attacks, strokes and car accidents, especially considering the closest emergency room is a halfhour away in Salinas.

5. Despite the City’s prudent and fiscally responsible funding efforts, the GFD faces growing financial challenges that threaten GFD’s ability to continue to provide reliable, effective 911 responses to the community, including the need to replace worn and outdated medical gear, breathing apparatuses, protective clothing and tools used by firefighters/EMTs, with safe, modern equipment.

6. The GFD currently relies on a bare minimum staffing of 2 firefighters on call around the clock.

7. In addition to the aforesaid challenges, the City’s ability to provide timely and efficient fire and emergency medical services is exacerbated by the growing threat of wildfires, floods and other disasters in our region that have the potential to divert resources from local 911 calls.

8. In order to continue providing emergency response by qualified firefighters/EMTs, the City needs to establish a reliable source of local funding to maintain the availability of rapid 911 response when an emergency occurs.

9. Without additional funding, the GFD won’t be able to improve service and may struggle to maintain its current staffing and level of response as costs continue to rise.

10. The City Council is proposing the collection of a parcel tax on properties within the City, levying $349.00 annually for single-family residential parcels; $262.00 per apartment unit; and additional rates for commercial, industrial and agricultural parcels, adjusted for inflation. It is estimated that a special parcel tax with these rates would generate approximately $665,000 per year.

11. All funds raised by the local parcel tax could only be used for firefighter/EMT staffing, vehicles and equipment including:
• Help ensure round-the-clock staffing for rapid emergency medical and fire 911 response • Improve response times to medical emergencies, car accidents, wildfires, floods and other natural disasters
• Ensure the GFD has up-to-date working equipment and resources to assist in emergency medical situations and fight wildfires
• Replace old or outdated medical equipment, breathing apparatuses, protective clothing and other equipment used by firefighters/EMTs
• Ensure the City’s fire apparatuses are outfitted with important medical incident response equipment and supplies.

12. To guarantee that all parcel tax proceeds would be used responsibly, expenditure of such funds would be restricted to costs related to providing fire protection and emergency medical response, would be subject to independent audits and oversight to confirm funds are spent in Packet Pg. 61
Attachment: Resolution No. 2026-04 with Exhibits A & B (3463 : Resolution No. 2026-04 Special Parcel Tax Measure) accordance with approved uses, and could not be taken by the State or used for any other purpose than fire and emergency services.

13. Based on extensive surveying, the City believes that collection of parcel tax funding for the purpose of maintaining fire and emergency medical services is considered by the public to be a beneficial and worthwhile endeavor.

SECTION II. CALL FOR ELECTION. PLACEMENT OF MEASURE ON THE BALLOT. Pursuant to California Constitution art. XIIIC, Section 2(d) and art. XIIID, Section 3(2); Government Code Sections 53724, 53970, and 50077(a); Elections Code Section 9222 and Sections 10400 et seq.; and the Gonzales City Code, the City Council of the City of Gonzales hereby calls an election at which it shall submit to the qualified voters of the City, a question that, if approved, would adopt a parcel tax which would create funding to support ongoing fire and emergency medical services for the City’s residents. This measure shall be designated by letter by the Monterey County Elections Department. Pursuant to Elections Code Section 10400 et seq., the election for this measure shall be consolidated with the Statewide election to be conducted on June 2, 2026.

SECTION III. PROPOSED ORDINANCE. The ordinance authorizing the special tax to be considered for approval by the voters pursuant to Section II is as set forth in Exhibit A hereto.

The City Council hereby approves the ordinance, the form thereof, and its submission to the voters of the City at the June 2, 2026 consolidated Statewide election, subject to the approval of a twothirds majority of the voters voting on the measure at the election called by the adoption of this resolution. The entire text of the ordinance attached hereto as Exhibit A shall be printed in the voter information portion of the sample ballot. The ordinance specifies that the City will levy a new annual parcel tax of $349.00/single family unit, $262.00/multi-unit, and $148.00-$201.00 plus $.07 per square foot for non-residential parcels, all adjusted annually, providing approximately $665,000 per year. All tax revenues collected by application of the new parcel tax would be used exclusively for 911 emergency medical/fire response, subject to independent audit and City oversight. The new parcel tax would remain in place until ended by the voters.

SECTION IV. BALLOT LANGUAGE. The official ballot to be used at said election shall conform to the laws of the State of California with relation thereto. The proposed parcel tax shall be submitted to the voters on the ballot at the General Municipal Election to be held and consolidated with the Statewide general election on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, in the form of the following question:

To ensure fire/emergency medical 911 response, including 24-hour staffing, updated lifesaving equipment/training, and disaster preparedness, shall the City of Gonzales’ measure, levying an annual parcel tax of $349.00/single family unit, $262.00/multi-unit, $148-$201 plus $.07 per building square foot for non-residential parcels, adjusted annually, providing approximately $665,000 per year until ended by voters, with funds dedicated exclusively to reliable 911 emergency medical/fire response and requiring local control/oversight, be adopted?
Packet Pg. 62
Attachment: Resolution No. 2026-04 with Exhibits A & B (3463 : Resolution No. 2026-04 Special Parcel Tax Measure) The words “Yes” and “No” shall be printed on the ballots so the qualified electors may express their choice.

This measure shall be designated by letter by the Monterey County Elections Department.

SECTION V. IMPARTIAL ANALYSIS AND SUBMISSION OF BALLOT
ARGUMENTS. The City Attorney is hereby authorized to prepare an impartial analysis of the proposed measure. The City Attorney’s impartial analysis of the ballot measure shall not exceed five hundred (500) words in length showing the effect of the measure on the existing law and the operation of the measure. The City Attorney shall transmit such impartial analysis to the City Clerk by the close of business on March 10, 2026. Written arguments in favor or opposed to the measure may be prepared by the City Council, any member or members of the City Council so authorized by Council action, or any individual voter who is eligible to vote on the measure, or any bona fide association of citizens, or any combination of voters and associations. All arguments must be submitted to the City Clerk by 5:00 p.m. on March 10, 2026. No argument shall exceed three hundred (300) words in length. A ballot argument may not be accepted unless accompanied by the printed name and signature or printed names and signatures of the author or authors submitting it, or if submitted on behalf of an organization, the name of the organization and the printed name and signature of at least one of its principal officers who is the author of the argument. No more than five signatures shall appear on any argument. If more than one argument is submitted for or against the measure, the City Clerk shall select the argument for printing and distribution in accordance with the provisions of Elections Code Section 9287.

Pursuant to Section 9285 of the California Elections Code, when the City Clerk has selected the arguments for and against the measure, which will be printed and distributed to the voters, the City Clerk shall send copies of the argument in favor of the measure to the authors of the argument against, and copies of the argument against to the authors of the argument in favor.

Rebuttal arguments may thereafter be prepared in a length not exceeding two hundred and fifty (250) words and shall be filed with the City Clerk by no later than 5:00 p.m. on March 18, 2026.

Rebuttal arguments shall be printed in the same manner as the direct arguments. Each rebuttal argument shall immediately follow the direct argument which it seeks to rebut.

SECTION VI. CEQA. The City Council finds that under CEQA Guidelines 15060(c) (2) and 15378, subdivisions (2) and (4) of subdivision (b), this tax does not constitute a project under CEQA because it creates a government funding mechanism that does not involve any commitment to any specific project that may result in a potentially significant physical impact on the environment, and therefore, review under CEQA is not required.

SECTION VII. REQUEST TO CONSOLIDATE AND CANVAS RETURNS. The City requests and authorizes the Registrar of Voters to consolidate this election with the established election on June 2, 2026 for the ease and convenience of the registered voters and to take advantage of any cost savings possible by such consolidation. The election on the measure set forth in Section IV shall be held and conducted, the votes canvassed and the returns made, and the results ascertained and determined as provided for herein. The election shall be held in accordance with the Elections Code of the State of California. The Board of Supervisors of the County of Monterey is authorized to canvas the returns of that election with respect to the votes cast in the City of Gonzales and to certify the results to the City Council of the City of Gonzales.

At the next regular meeting of the City Council occurring after the returns of the election have Packet Pg. 63
Attachment: Resolution No. 2026-04 with Exhibits A & B (3463 : Resolution No. 2026-04 Special Parcel Tax Measure) been canvassed and the certification of the results to the City Council, the City Council shall cause to be entered in its minutes a statement of the results of the election. The City Clerk may request the assistance of the County of Monterey Elections Department in regard to said Consolidated Statewide Primary Election, as the City Clerk deems necessary, and in recognition of the fact that additional costs will be incurred by the County in providing assistance, the City agrees that it shall pay the incurred cost of such assistance pursuant to a “Service Agreement for the Provisions of Election Services between the City of Gonzales and the Monterey County Registrar of Voters,” substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit B. The City Manager is hereby authorized to enter into or modify any written agreement for such services with the County of Monterey Elections Department.

SECTION VIII. PUBLICATION OF MEASURE. In accordance with Section 12111 of the Elections Code and Section 6061 of the Government Code, the City Clerk is hereby authorized and directed to cause notice of the measure to be published once in the Salinas Valley Tribune, a weekly newspaper of general circulation, printed, published, and circulated in the City of Gonzales and hereby designated for that purpose by the City Council of Gonzales, at least one time not later than one week before the election.

SECTION IX. EFFECTIVE DATE. This Resolution shall become effective immediately upon its passage and forthwith entered upon the minutes of this Council and kept and maintained by the City Clerk of the City of Gonzales.

SECTION X. The City Clerk is hereby authorized and directed to certify the due adoption of this Resolution and to transmit a copy hereof so certified to the Board of Supervisors and the Registrar of Voters of Monterey County.

SECTION XI. The City Clerk and City Attorney are authorized to make any typographical, clerical, non-substantive corrections to this resolution and to the ballot measure as may be deemed necessary by the Monterey County Clerk/Registrar of Voters.

PASSED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Gonzales at a regular meeting duly held on the 17th 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
Packet Pg. 64
Attachment: Resolution No. 2026-04 with Exhibits A & B (3463 : Resolution No. 2026-04 Special Parcel Tax Measure)

EXHIBIT A
ORDINANCE NO. 2026-157
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF GONZALES ADDING CHAPTER 3.44 TO TITLE 3-REVENUE AND FINANCE OF THE CITY OF GONZALES CITY CODE

ESTABLISHING A SPECIAL PARCEL TAX FOR FIRE AND EMERGENCY

MEDICAL SERVICES

THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GONZALES DOES HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:

SECTION 1. NEW CHAPTER ADDED. Chapter 3.44 is added to Title 3 of the Gonzales City Code to read as follows:

CHAPTER 3.44

FIRE AND EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES PARCEL TAX

3.44.010 IMPOSITION OF SPECIAL FIRE AND EMERGENCY MEDICAL

SERVICES PARCEL TAX

3.44.020 MAXIMUM TAX AMOUNTS

3.44.030 ACCOUNTABILITY MEASURES

3.44.040 COLLECTION WITH PROPERTY TAXES
Section 3.44.010 IMPOSITION OF SPECIAL FIRE AND EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES PARCEL TAX.

A special tax to fund fire and emergency medical services is hereby imposed on every parcel of land in the City of Gonzales. The tax shall be imposed each fiscal year in the amounts permitted by this Chapter. The tax imposed by this Chapter shall be a tax upon each parcel of property within the City and the tax shall not be measured by the value of the property.

Section 3.44.020 MAXIMUM TAX AMOUNTS.

The maximum annual amount of the tax imposed on each parcel pursuant to this Chapter shall be determined as follows:

A. A tax of Three Hundred and Forty-Nine Dollars ($349.00) shall be imposed on each single-family residential parcel within the City, subject to and including an annual increase equal to the inflation index as established each year by the City Council. A “single-family residential parcel” shall mean a parcel zoned to accommodate single family residences.

Packet Pg. 65
Attachment: Resolution No. 2026-04 with Exhibits A & B (3463 : Resolution No. 2026-04 Special Parcel Tax Measure) B. A tax of Two Hundred and Sixty-Two Dollars ($262.00) per residential unit shall be imposed on each multi-family residential parcel within the City, subject to and including an annual increase equal to the inflation index as established each year by the City Council. A “multi-family residential parcel” shall mean a parcel zoned for a building or those portions thereof that accommodate or is intended to accommodate two or more residential units.

C. A tax of One Hundred and Forty-Eight Dollars -Two Hundred and One Dollars ($148.00- $201.00), plus $.07 per building square foot for non-residential parcels shall be imposed on each non-residential parcel within the City, subject to and including an annual increase equal to the inflation index as established each year by the City Council.

Section 3.44.030 ACCOUNTABILITY MEASURES.

A. Special Fund: Use of Proceeds. In accordance with Government Code Section 53978, the proceeds of the tax imposed by this Chapter shall be placed in a special fund and shall be dedicated and used only for approved fire and emergency medical services as authorized by majority vote of the City Council.

B. Annual Review Report. An Annual Review Report shall be prepared by the City Manager or her/his designee, setting forth the amount of revenue received under the Special Tax and the amount and purpose of disbursements. The purpose of this requirement is to assure accountability and the proper disbursement of the proceeds of the Special Tax. The Annual Review Report shall be presented to the City Council at a regular Council meeting not later than January 31 following each fiscal year in which the tax is collected. The Annual Review Report shall be filled with and maintained in the City Clerk’s office.

Section 3.44.040 COLLECTION WITH PROPERTY TAXES.

The special tax imposed by this Chapter shall be due in the same manner, on the same dates, and subject to the same collection penalties and interest as established by law for other charges and taxes fixed and collected by this County of Monterey on behalf of the City of Gonzales. The special tax imposed by this Chapter, together with all penalties and interest thereon, shall constitute a lien upon the parcel upon which it is levied until it has been paid, and shall constitute a personal obligation of the owners of the parcel on the date the tax is due.

SECTION 2. SEVERABILITY. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion of this ordinance is for any reason held to be invalid or unenforceable by a court of competent jurisdiction, the remaining sections, subsections, sentences, clauses, phrases, or portions of this ordinance shall nonetheless remain in full force and effect. The people of the City of Gonzales hereby declare that they would have adopted each section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or portions of this ordinance declared invalid or unenforceable.

SECTION 3. TWO-THIRDS APPROVAL-EFFECTIVE AND OPERATIVE DATE. The tax imposed by this ordinance is a special tax. This ordinance shall be effective only if approved Packet Pg. 66
Attachment: Resolution No. 2026-04 with Exhibits A & B (3463 : Resolution No. 2026-04 Special Parcel Tax Measure) by two-thirds of the City’s voters voting thereon on June 2, 2026, in the consolidated municipal and general election and shall go into effect immediately after the result of the vote is declared by the City Council. If approved, the tax shall become operative on July 1, 2026. The City Manager is directed to convey to the County information as necessary to ensure the measure is effective on the next available tax roll.

SECTION 4. CODIFICATION. Upon adoption of this ordinance pursuant to the voter approval referenced in Section 3, the City Clerk, in consultation with the City Attorney, is hereby authorized and directed to codify this ordinance in the Gonzales City Code.

SECTION 5. PUBLICATION. The Clerk of the City of Gonzales is hereby directed to cause the following summary of the ordinance to be published by one (1) insertion in The Salinas Valley Tribune, a newspaper of general circulation published and circulated in the City of Gonzales:

Contingent upon two-thirds majority voter approval, this ordinance adopts a new annual parcel tax imposed on properties in the City at the rate of $349 per single-family unit, $292 per multi-family unit, and between $148-$201 plus $.07 per building square foot for nonresidential parcels, subject to annual adjustment for inflation, with all tax revenues dedicated exclusively to updated lifesaving equipment and staffing for 911 emergency fire and medical response.

The ordinance requires independent annual audits, annual public expenditure reports and citizens’ oversight. The tax will remain in place until extinguished by the voters.

APPROVED by the following vote of the Voters of the City of Gonzales on June 2, 2026.

ADOPTED by Declaration of the vote by the City Council of the City of Gonzales on ____, 2026:

AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS:

NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS:

ABSTAIN: COUNCIL MEMBERS:

ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS:

Jose L. Rios, The Honorable Mayor
ATTEST:

Mary Villegas, Deputy City Clerk
Packet Pg. 67
Attachment: Resolution No. 2026-04 with Exhibits A & B (3463 : Resolution No. 2026-04 Special Parcel Tax Measure) Election Services Agreement JUNE 2, 2026
County of Monterey Department of Elections and
City of Gonzales Page 1 of 3

SERVICE AGREEMENT FOR THE PROVISION OF ELECTION

SERVICES BETWEEN CITY OF GONZALES AND

COUNTY OF MONTEREY ELECTIONS DEPARTMENT
JUNE 2, 2026
This Agreement, entered into this _________ day of 2026, by and between CITY OF GONZALES and County of Monterey Elections Department (hereinafter referred to as the Department);
WHEREAS, it is necessary and desirable that the Department be retained for the purpose of conducting an election hereinafter described for the CITY OF GONZALES (hereinafter referred to as the City);
NOW, THEREFORE, IT IS HEREBY AGREED BY THE PARTIES HERETO AS FOLLOWS:

SERVICES TO BE PERFORMED BY THE CITY:
1) No later than the 88th day prior to the election the City shall submit a resolution consolidating with the June 2, 2026, Statewide Direct Primary Election, requesting the Department to conduct the election for the City on said date and requesting election related services of the Department of which the City agrees to reimburse the Department.
2) The City shall publish the Notice of Election and the Notice to File Declarations of Candidacy for the offices to be voted on, and/or the Notice to File Arguments for or against any measure as applicable.
3) The City shall submit to the Department in writing the exact number of offices to be voted on and the names and ballot designations of the candidates for those offices, and/or the exact ballot wording to be voted by no later than the 88th day prior to the election, or by the 83rd day prior to the election if Elections Code §§ 10225, 10229, and 10407 are applicable.
4) The City shall prepare and deliver to the Department the information that shall be included in the local voter information guide containing, as applicable, candidates’ statements of qualifications, ballot measure, tax rate statements, impartial analysis,

EXHIBIT B
Packet Pg. 68
Attachment: Resolution No. 2026-04 with Exhibits A & B (3463 : Resolution No. 2026-04 Special Parcel Tax Measure) Election Services Agreement JUNE 2, 2026
County of Monterey Department of Elections and
City of Gonzales Page 2 of 3
arguments for or against and rebuttals thereto. The last day for the City to file primary arguments (300 words) and impartial analysis with the Department shall be no later than MARCH 12, 2026. The last day for the City to file rebuttal arguments (250 words) with the Department is MARCH 19, 2026. 5) The City shall be responsible for reviewing and approving the language of the sample ballot and official ballot wording for candidates and measures. 6) The City shall be responsible for all legal notices and publications related to filing deadlines with the City.

SERVICES TO BE PERFORMED BY THE DEPARTMENT:
1) The Department shall select and contract with the sample and official ballot printer(s) on behalf of the City.
2) The Department shall prepare and deliver to the printer the official ballot information. 3) The Department shall issue, receive and process all ballots on behalf of the City matters. 4) The Department shall procure all necessary and appropriate polling locations, hire polling place workers, and conduct the election in accordance with all applicable state, federal and local laws.
5) The Department shall prepare a Canvass of Votes Cast and submit a Certificate of Registrar of Voters to the City regarding the City matters.
6) The Department shall conduct any and all election activities as required including but not limited to all those required as the City’s Election Official other than those described under “Services to be Performed by the City”.

TERMS:

This Agreement shall be in effect for the performance of all services incident to the preparation and conduct of the election to be held on JUNE 2, 2026.

The parties will use best efforts to perform services herein. However, in the event the Department is unable to perform services required under this Agreement that are beyond their control, including an employee strike, vendor conditions, natural disasters, war, or other similar conditions, the Department will be relieved of all obligations under this Agreement. The Department will provide reasonable notice, if practical, of any conditions beyond their control, including notice at least 60 days Packet Pg. 69
Attachment: Resolution No. 2026-04 with Exhibits A & B (3463 : Resolution No. 2026-04 Special Parcel Tax Measure) Election Services Agreement JUNE 2, 2026
County of Monterey Department of Elections and
City of Gonzales Page 3 of 3
prior to JUNE 2, 2026 of vendor conditions affecting the election services. In the event a vendor does not perform, the Department will attempt to obtain substitute services.

CONSIDERATION:

In consideration of the performance of services and supplies provided by the Department, the City shall pay to the Department a sum equal to the actual cost of such services, expenses, and supplies related to the work performed on behalf of the City. In the event that this Agreement is terminated prematurely, the City shall pay to the Department a sum equal to the actual cost of such services performed or supplies/expenses incurred as of the effective date of the termination.

The City shall make payment within 30 days of receipt of invoice from the Department.

CITY:

Signature: ____________________________________________ Date: _______________ Print Name: ____________________________________________ Title: ____________________________________________
COUNTY:

Signature: ____________________________________________ Date: _______________ Print Name: Gina Martinez .

Title: County of Monterey, Registrar of Voters .
.

Packet Pg. 70
Attachment: Resolution No. 2026-04 with Exhibits A & B (3463 : Resolution No. 2026-04 Special Parcel Tax Measure)

Gonzales City CouncilFebruary 17, 2026

Gonzales City Council
February 17, 2026