AGENDA
JOINT CITY COUNCIL/SUCCESSOR AGENCY
REGULAR MEETING
COUNCIL CHAMBERS
117 FOURTH STREET, GONZALES, CA 93926
MONDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2026
6:00 PM
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3. ROLL CALL
4. BUSINESS FROM THE PUBLIC
5. CONSENT AGENDA
5.1 Approve the Joint City Council/Successor Agency Meeting Minutes of October 5, 2026
5.2 Approve Accounts Payable Warrants #54517-54590
City Council/Successor Agency Members:
Mayor Pro Tem/Vice Chair Liz Silva, Council/Agency Member Scott Funk, Council/Agency Member Maria Orozco, Mayor/Chair Jose L. Rios
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]
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.
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.
October 5, 2026 Minutes
Warrants #54517-54590
1 5.3 City Manager Report
5.4 Community Development Department Activity Report
5.5 Community Engagement & Recreation Department Activity Report
5.6 Fire Department Activity Report
5.7 Police Department Activity Report
5.8 Public Works/City Engineer Department Activity Report
5.9 Closure of City Offices for Winter Holidays 2026-2027
6. REGULAR AGENDA
6.1 Presentation on El Niño Storm Emergency Response Efforts Staff Report
Public Comment
Council Discussion
Council Action - Receive presentation
7. GONZALES YOUTH COUNCIL UPDATES
8. BUSINESS FROM CITY COUNCIL
8.1 Board/Committee Reports
League of California Cities Monterey Bay Division
Association of Monterey Bay Area Governments
Monterey Salinas Tranist
8.2 Oral Communications
9. BUSINESS FROM CITY MANAGER
10. ADJOURNMENT
City Manager Report September 2026
Activity Report Pictures
Activity Report Pictures
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.
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.
I, Mary Villegas, Deputy City Clerk of the City of Gonzales, do hereby certify that a copy of the foregoing Joint City Council/Successor Agency Regular Meeting Agenda was posted at City Hall, Council Chambers, and on the City’s website by Thursday, October 15, 2026 at 5:00pm.
Mary Villegas 10/15/26
Mary Villegas Date
2 CITY OF GONZALES
AGENDA
ITEM
5.1 STAFF REPORT
TO: Honorable Mayor Rios and City Council
DATE: October 19, 2026
FROM: Carmen Gil, City Manager
THROUGH: Carmen Gil, City Manager
SUBJECT: Approve the Joint City Council/Successor Agency Meeting Minutes of October 5, 2026
CITY MANAGER
ATTACHMENTS:
October 5, 2026 Minutes
3
MINUTES
JOINT MEETING OF THE
GONZALES JOINT CITY COUNCIL AND
GONZALES SUCCESSOR AGENCY
MONDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2026
6:00 PM
1. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Rios called the meeting to order at 6:00pm.
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Council Member Orozco led the flag salute.
3. ROLL CALL
Attendee Name Title Status
Jose L Rios Mayor/Chair Present
Liz Silva Mayor Pro Tem/Vice Chair Present
Scott Funk Member Present
Maria Orozco Member Present
YOUTH COMMISSIONERS
Orlando Rodriguez and Junior Ruiz.
STAFF PRESENT:
City Manager Carmen Gil, City Attorney Michael F. Rodriquez, Executive Assistant to the City Manager/Deputy City Clerk Mary Villegas, Administrative Assistant II Marisol Gomez, Public Works Director/City Engineer Octavio Hurtado, and Police Chief Keith Wise.
4
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]
4. PRESENTATIONS
4.1 Proclamation No. 2026-11 Proclaiming October as Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month RESULT: PASSED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Maria Orozco
SECONDER: Scott Funk
AYES: Jose L Rios, Liz Silva, Scott Funk, Maria Orozco
Mayor Pro Tem Silva read and presented Proclamation No. 2026-11.
Michael and Kayla Braasch thanked the City for the proclamation and elaborated on the loss of their son.
They hoped to able to bring awareness to the number of families that go through this loss and bring resources down to the County of Monterey and the small South County Cities.
The Council expressed their condolences to the Braasch Family for their loss.
4.2 Proclamation No. 2026-12 Proclaiming October 4 - 10, 2026 as National 4-H Week RESULT: PASSED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Scott Funk
SECONDER: Maria Orozco
AYES: Jose L Rios, Liz Silva, Scott Funk, Maria Orozco
Mayor Pro Tem Silva read and presented Proclamation No. 2026-12.
Samantha Zepeda, 4-H Vice President; and Bailey Cisneros, 4-H Secretary, elaborated on their roles.
4.3 Resolution No. 2026-64, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Gonzales Recognizing the Fanoe Family for Their Longstanding Contributions and Dedication to the Community of Gonzales RESULT: PASSED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Liz Silva
SECONDER: Scott Funk
AYES: Jose L Rios, Liz Silva, Scott Funk, Maria Orozco
5
Mayor Pro Tem Silva read Resolution No. 2026-64 and Mayor Rios presented it to the Fanoe Family.
Mayor Rios shared what the Fanoe Family has done for this community can never be paid back and thanked them for their commitment and love for our town.
Anker Fanoe introduced some members of the Fanoe family who were present at the meeting and accepted the proclamation. They explained their family has been committed to education for a long time and the dedication of the land was not a hard decision since their grandparents and they love Gonzales and are very grateful. They were impressed at how many people showed up to the LAFCo meeting who wanted to live here, as well as their kids. They thanked the City Council for pushing this project through, and City Manager Gil for all the work she put into this and getting it over the finish line. Mr. Anker said for his family, it went back 25 years, and this is the administration that finally got it across and he knew there was a lot of pushing that went on to get this across the finish line. He shared about his father, Tom, who was heavily involved in it for 25 years, and unfortunately, he passed away a year ago. He said as he sat at the LAFCo meeting and listened to everyone push this forward, he couldn't help but think about his dad and how proud he would have been to finally see this get across the line. He also shared a story about Nels Fanoe who immigrated in 1890 from Denmark, and raising his family here, along with his brothers.
5. BUSINESS FROM THE PUBLIC
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.
Andrew Castillo commented about supporting police funding and not supporting bad policy funding. He talked about body camera compliance during transportation being critical. He supported funding the police, funding the cameras, and not debating somebody's mental health. He also added if there was a problem with him or his campaign, to bring it to him directly.
Henry Laizure McDowell congratulated the Council on the passing of the houses, and talked about unprofessional celebration at that meeting, spending time with his girlfriend and her family, getting to shoot guns and taking care of them, meeting a Native American, the City facing more sales taxes and property taxes in the future, and people complaining about rent being too high.
Antonio Alvarez Leon, 753 Holstein Way and Campaign Manager for Henry McDowell, expressed his gratitude to the Police Department for the opportunity to participate in the ride-along. He asked for a welldeserved round of applause to the department and asked why Henry and his grandfather are not accepted for the police ride along.
Henry Martinez Sr., 114 Tenth Street, said he was here to give a legal notice to all the renters regarding signs and getting addresses of all the people who put their competitor's signs for CRLA so they can sue people for violation of free speech. He also talked about making a mistake in raising taxes, 60% of the budget going to police, 17% to fire, insurance rates going up 21%, higher water bills, and told the Council to charge the people who wanted to expand the pond.
There were technical difficulties trying to get Henry Martinez Jr. to comment via zoom.
Henry Martinez Jr., via his father's cell phone call, said the technical difficulties were not on his end. He commented about finding some of his son's signs in the ditches of Gonzales scattered around the City, he pointed this to Mayor Pro Tem Silva because of big businesses involved versus a kid. He talked about his son's supporters and having money to keep buying him signs and keep replacing them. He told Mayor Pro Tem Silva she should be making a statement to her people about not stealing signs. 6
6. 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.
6.1 Approve the Joint City Council/Successor Agency Meeting Minutes of September 21, 2026
6.2 Approve Accounts Payable Warrants #54443-54516
6.3 Proclamation No. 2026-13, City of Gonzales Proclamation of the Existence of a Local Emergency Due to Statewide Winter Storm "El Niño"
RESULT: PASSED [UNANIMOUS] Consent Agenda Items
MOVER: Liz Silva
SECONDER: Maria Orozco
AYES: Jose L Rios, Liz Silva, Scott Funk, Maria Orozco
7. GONZALES YOUTH COUNCIL UPDATES
Commissioners Rodriguez and Ruiz reported on the community action project, small business fair, volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club Fall Festival, comments from Youth Council Members at the LAFCo meeting, announced the October 5th Wildlands Conservancy meet and greet, the October 7th Commissioner Advisor meeting, the October 14th GYC meeting, and school events and games.
8. BUSINESS FROM CITY COUNCIL
8.1 Board/Committee Reports
• Transportation Agency for Monterey County - Mayor Rios reported on the last meeting. • Mayor Selection Committee - Mayor Rios said he couldn't find a ride. • Salinas Valley Recycles - Mayor Pro Tem Silva announced the next meeting October 15th, and November 5th Strategic Planning meeting at the Johnson Canyon Landfield Education Center.
She informed there was a free tire amnesty going on right now at the Johnson Canyon Landfill.
8.2 Oral Communication
Mayor Pro Tem Silva reminded everyone that the ballots arrived in the mail today and to read their voter guides and submit their ballot before November 3rd. She also reminded all the residents to winterize their homes since we've been getting a lot of warnings about Super El Nino hitting us this winter, so to be prepared and help. She announced the Alliance on Aging wellness hour for seniors on Mondays at 10:00am, which will be going for six weeks.
Council Member Funk thanked the Fanoe Family and the Pembrook Group for their persistence and sticking through the project the last two decades plus. He remembered he and Councilmember Silva started working with that on the Citizens Advisory Committee before being on the Council for the General Plan going back to 2005, but it was great to see that to see that come through. 7
He also thanked all the residents of Gonzales who attended and spoke at the LAFCO meeting. He said that was great to see via zoom since he was out of town. He thanked staff and everyone for their efforts.
Council Member Orozco also thanked everyone who attended the LAFCO meeting, which she attended at the beginning since she had to go to the Housing Authority meeting. She thanked staff and especially City Manager Gil and Community Development Director Kinison Brown for all the hard work that they have done to work on this project and to see it to the final stages. She agreed we still had a lot of work to do. She also thanked the Youth Commissioners for attending and sharing their comments which folks did admire.
She looked forward to working with staff and the members of the community to move on and take the next steps. She hoped to have first-time homebuyer programs and workshops to get people prepared to be able to move into their first home. She also thanked folks who came out to the annual St. Theodore's Carnival which was a great success.
Mayor Rios thanked the Fanoe Family and everyone who attended the LAFCo meeting, which was great to feel the energy with the number of people that were there. He said it was interesting that the Martinez Family had kind of a disagreement, one saying no, and the other saying yes, but he felt expansion was good for the community and have opportunities for the residents. He thanked Supervisor Lopez for his support with this project and asked him about the fertilizer plant on the north end of town and how we control the odor. He said he recommended calling the Monterey Bay Area Resources, which he did and they were out there inspecting the next day. He said he and City Manager Gil met with the owner of the company at City Hall and got them moving in the best direction possible. He added he was very happy and content with the way the City is moving forward and saw nothing but positive things coming up. He also thanked Public Works Director Hurtado for calling the farmer and coming up with a plan.
9. BUSINESS FROM CITY MANAGER
City Manager Gil thanked the community for coming out and supporting the Housing Project and congratulated the Council on this huge milestone. She also thanked everyone who has worked on the project throughout the years especially City Attorney Rodriquez, Community Development Director Kinison Brown, and Consultant Brent Slama for having critical roles, for their hard work and dedication in making this happen, and we should celebrate this milestone. She announced the registration for Hometown Heroes Celebration ends this Friday, the Halloween Movie on October 17th at 6:30pm at the Community Center with a costume contest first, Community Garage Sales on October 10th - 11th, Tri-Cities Cleanup on October 17th at Fairview Middle School from 8:00am - 1:00pm or until boxes are full, and the compost giveaway on October 17th at Centennial Park. She added that staff has begun to do a lot of work in preparations for the predicted el Niño storm.
Public Works Director Hurtado shared the Public Works Department is starting to prepare for the strong storms coming, which include slough walkthroughs, meetings with the school, letters to property owners, purchasing a container on east side of highway, sandbags order, on call request for qualifications in the event we need equipment, more than one staff member on call, and attending field preparation training with the South County Cities group, along with Police and Fire personnel. He also gave on the Wastewater Treatment Plant and Fifth Street Bridge conversations with Caltrans.
Mayor Rios mentioned he had a tractor that staff was welcome to use for the slough. He also mentioned Mr.
Martinez was against the parcel tax and he knew where he was coming from about his insurance rates, but he wanted to give an idea that his home insurance went from $1,800 to $4,700 which was a bit more than 21%, so if Mr. Martinez was okay with paying the insurance company rather than paying his own community, more power to him.
8
Council Member Orozco asked if there was any discussion at the League of California Cities regarding possible financial emergency assistance for small cities or families during the storm.
City Manager Gil responded they didn't have anything regarding the storm, but they had a workshop regarding Habitat for Humanity and how they have financed projects that relate to our housing project. She said staff already has had a conversation with our local Habitat for Humanity about it, but there was no other mention other than the State declaring an emergency, and that's what our emergency allows for, any future funding from FEMA to come and support.
Council Member Orozco suggested having a conversation with our local food bank and Salvation Army, just to see if they have anything in place or have conversations on what to expect.
City Manager Gil also shared she talked to the United Way CEO this afternoon and they are beginning to wrap up conversations about what the City of Salinas and the South County communities can do to support one another. She said they already have resources just like they provided during COVID, and they will have facilitator conversations to help us all coordinate services, and they're encouraging everyone to make sure they're using the 211 service for any needs or information.
10. ADJOURNMENT
RESULT: PASSED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Liz Silva
SECONDER: Maria Orozco
AYES: Jose L Rios, Liz Silva, Scott Funk, Maria Orozco
The Joint meeting was adjourned at 7:05pm.
ATTEST:
Mary Villegas, Deputy City Clerk
9 CITY OF GONZALES
AGENDA
ITEM
5.2 STAFF REPORT
TO: Honorable Mayor Rios and City Council
DATE: October 19, 2026
FROM: Carmen Gil, City Manager
THROUGH: Carmen Gil, City Manager
SUBJECT: Approve Accounts Payable Warrants #54517-54590
CITY MANAGER
ATTACHMENTS:
Warrants #54517-54590
10 11
12 13
14 15
16 17
18 19
CITY OF GONZALES
AGENDA
ITEM
5.3 ACTIVITY REPORT
TO: Honorable Mayor Rios and City Council
DATE: October 19, 2026
FROM: Carmen Gil, City Manager
THROUGH: Carmen Gil, City Manager
SUBJECT: City Manager Report
CITY MANAGER
ATTACHMENTS:
City Manager Report September 2026
20 Finally on April 27th we celebrated a day that so many of us have been waiting for – the September 2026 was an exciting month for the City of Gonzales. On September 24th, Mayor Rios was presented with an award for the work on the Vista Lucia project by the Monterey County Association of Realtors; and on September 25th, the City of Gonzales was presented with the Ruth Vreeland Aawrd for Engaging Youth in City Government at the League of California Cities Conference for engaging youth in the development of the Dennis and Janice Caprara Community Center Complex. The City was among 12 other cities in the State selected for various awards.
Housing
After years and years of dedication and hard work, the City of Gonzales finally had its day in front of the Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCo) to consider the Vista Lucia housing project. The project was approved unanimously by the Commission and is well on its way to becoming part of the City of Gonzales. Once the 771 acres of the Fanoe Ranch are incorporated into the City, Pembrook Development will begin working with potential buyers to begin construction on the infrastructure needed to accommodate the new master-planned community.
A huge Thank You to all of
those that shared their stories
and their desire for housing.
Without your support, this
project would not have been
approved. It took a village to
get it over the finish line!
City of Gonzales
City Manager Report
September 2026
21 Community Engagement
On October 5th, the Gonzales City Council will
be considering an Emergency Declaration in
preparation for the impeding El Niño storms. The
Public Works Department has already begun
working on cleaning coverts and clearing
drains and will be working with property owners
to make sure that their areas are free of hazards
as we prepare to weather the storm. Sandbags
will also be made available for the public in the
next few months. Please don’t hesitate to call
with any questions or concerns and make sure
you are prepared by getting your emergency
supplies on hand and clearing areas around
your home. To sign up for Gonzales Alert System,
please scan the QR Code.
Save the Date:
• October 17th Halloween Movie Night, costume contest starts at 6:30pm • November 10th Hometown Heros Celebration at Central Park at 11:00am 22 CITY OF GONZALES
AGENDA
ITEM
5.4 ACTIVITY REPORT
TO: Honorable Mayor Rios and City Council
DATE: October 19, 2026
FROM: Taven M. Brown, Community Development Director
THROUGH: Carmen Gil, City Manager
SUBJECT: Community Development Department Activity Report
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
HOUSING
The Vista Lucia Specific Plan Annexation was approved by the LocalArea Formation Commission on September 28, 2026.
The Puente Del Monte Specific Plan. City staff and our consultants continue to proceed in the preparation of the EIR.
CODE ENFORCEMENT
The City continues to meet with property owners, inspect potential violations and start documentation to progress to remedies. Our present "big picture" effort is having private and public properties ready for excessive rain events along the Gonzales Slough, should the predicted El Nino events come to Gonzales.
BUILDING DIVISION ACTIVITY
From September 1 to September 30, 2026 (30 reporting days) the City issued nineteen permits: eight (8) permits for re-roofs, (6) electrical work, (2) ADU, (2) Fire Sprinkler, and (1) remodel. The estimated value of improvements was $720,837.47.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
The Winery: The Community Development Director continues to engage in regular conversations with several business interests regarding the re-use of the winery property.
City staff is conversing with Hartnell College to develop another internship to assist with Economic Development activities.
Meanwhile our several Business Spotlight Videos are accessible through our social media outlets. https://www.facebook.com/CityofGonzalesCalifornia.
23 SURPLUS LAND ACT - Update
One residential development company is currently exploring potential housing project designs on the Marchetti property along Alta Street with the Community Development Director and the City Manager. Staff is in process with Piini Realty to appraise and seek a fair market value for the several properties listed by the city for Surplus Land disposition.
24 CITY OF GONZALES
AGENDA
ITEM
5.5 ACTIVITY REPORT
TO: Honorable Mayor Rios and City Council
DATE: October 19, 2026
FROM: Carmen Gil, City Manager
THROUGH: Carmen Gil, City Manager
SUBJECT: Community Engagement & Recreation Department Activity Report
RECREATION/COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT DEPARTMENT
City Sports League
Youth Soccer League is doing well. Games started on September 25th and 26th. This season we have a total of 178 participants, 20 volunteer coaches and 4 soccer referees. We have a couple of coaches that are coaching multiple teams this season. Our participant numbers are slightly lower than last season by 23 participants. We have 5 divisions starting at age 2 ½ to age 13. In the ages 2 ½ - 3 ½ division we have 3 teams. For the 4-5 & 6- 8 age division we have 4 teams each. Our 9-10 division has 3 teams, and our 13U division has 2 teams. This season we collaborated with Soledad in our 13U division and are competing with them a couple times throughout the season. Last games will be October 30th and 31st.
Our adult volleyball league registration started August 13th and will end on October 21st. Our numbers are low so far. They should pick up by next week.
Recreation/ Community Engagement
On September 14, we concluded the Bingocize program in partnership with the Monterey County Health Department. Overall, participating seniors enjoyed the class and expressed interest in having more exercise opportunities tailored to older adults. The Monterey County Health Department instructor shared that they are currently working toward obtaining additional certifications to offer more exercise classes for seniors in the near future.
The City of Gonzales team raised $355 for Relay for Life, which took place in downtown Salinas on Saturday, September 19. All proceeds came from ticket sales for a vehicle raffle, with the majority of tickets sold during National Night Out. The team hopes to reach its fundraising goal next year and contribute even more toward the fight against cancer.
The City of Gonzales will host its annual Halloween Movie Night on Saturday, October 17, at the Community Center Amphitheatre. The evening will kick off with a Costume Contest at 6:30 p.m., with prizes awarded to the winners, followed by a showing of the movie Halloweentown. Community members are encouraged to bring their family, friends, and favorite snacks for a fun-filled movie night under the stars! In September, the City of Gonzales opened registration for its annual Hometown Heroes Program, which honors veterans and active-duty service members from the Gonzales community. The program’s mission is to 25 recognize and pay tribute to those who have bravely served our country and put their lives on the line to protect our freedoms. We extend our sincere thanks to American Legion Post 81 and American Legion Auxiliary Unit 81 for generously contributing toward the cost of each banner, reducing the registration fee for participants to just $35. The final day to register is Friday, October 9th.
In September we also met with the Mexican Consulate regarding use of the Fairview Joint Use Gym for Saturday, October 24th to host a mobile clinic.
The City of Gonzales has partnered with Venture to bring free financial literacy classes to the Gonzales Community Center. The first three sessions will be offered in Spanish on November 2, 9, and 16, at 6 p.m.
These classes will cover important financial topics, including budgeting, credit, and savings, to help community members build their financial knowledge and skills. Dates for the English-language sessions are being planned, and additional details will be shared once they are finalized.
GonzalesYouth Council
September was a busy month for the Gonzales Youth Council (GYC), as members kicked off the new term with orientation on Saturday, September 5, followed by their Capstone presentation on Tuesday, September 8, and their regular GYC meeting on Wednesday, September 9. A primary focus throughout the month was updating new GYC members on the Vista Lucia Housing Project. Members also participated in a meet-andgreet with City Manager Carmen Gil and Community Development Director Taven Kinison Brown to learn more about the project and its development.
On Friday, September 25th some of the GYC members volunteered during the Boys and Girls Club Fall Festival Teen Night hosted at the Community Center. They had well over 50 youth in attendance and several different activities, food and prizes!
On Monday, September 28, GYC members had the opportunity to attend the final Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) meeting regarding the annexation of the Vista Lucia Housing Project. The Gonzales Unified School District generously provided bus transportation, allowing students to attend the meeting and gain firsthand insight into the local decision-making process. We also had 3 GYC students that went up and spoke during the public comment portion of the agenda, expressing what this project means for them.
Looking ahead, GYC Commissioners are exploring opportunities to connect with the two other South County Youth Councils through a joint meet-and-greet. The goal is to learn more about the initiatives each council is working on, share ideas, and strengthen collaboration among youth leaders throughout South County.
Additionally, through an introduction facilitated by Supervisor Lopez’s office, the GYC has been in communication with The Wildlands Conservancy regarding youth access to open space. A meeting with Kat Hardisty from The Wildlands Conservancy was scheduled for Monday, October 5. The discussion will focus on hearing directly from local youth about what meaningful access to open space looks like to them and how The Wildlands Conservancy can help ensure South County youth feel welcomed and included in future public access planning for Rana Creek Preserve.
Kid Power
September was a great month for Kid PowerAfter School, we had 30 students registered!As students returned to school, they began reestablishing their homework routines and adjusting to the new school year. Many children needed additional support with their assignments, so staff provided individualized attention and guidance to help them better understand their work and complete their assignments. Our goal is to ensure that every child feels supported, confident, and successful in their learning.
In addition to homework time, the children enjoyed outdoor play, arts and crafts, and visits to the garden.
These activities provided opportunities for creativity, physical activity, and exploration while encouraging the children to engage with their surroundings and learn through hands-on experiences.
ATTACHMENTS:
Activity Report Pictures
26 Community Engagement
& Recreation Department
Summer Camp/ Kid Power
Our Gonzales Youth Soccer League during some of their games.
Annual Halloween Movie Night taking
place on Saturday, October 17.
Recreation/ Community Enagagement
Hometown Heroes Flyer.
Financial Literacy Flyer.
27 Community Engagement
& Recreation Department
Gonzales Youth Council
GYC students before the LAFCo
Meeting on Monday, September 28.
Two GYC students helping during the
B&G Club Fall Festival.
Meet & Greet with City Manager Carmen
and
Community Development Director Taven.
Kid Power
Kid Power students taking a trip to the
Community Garden.
Kid Power students playing some games
outdoors
One of the many activities our kids
worked on during the month.
28 CITY OF GONZALES
AGENDA
ITEM
5.6 ACTIVITY REPORT
TO: Honorable Mayor Rios and City Council
DATE: October 19, 2026
FROM: David Vasquez, Fire Captain
THROUGH: Carmen Gil, City Manager
SUBJECT: Fire Department Activity Report
CITY MANAGER
RESPONSES
There were 60 calls for service during the month of September. C Shift utilized an air ambulance for a medical emergency in the month of September.
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) continues to provide Duty Chief coverage and mutual aid as needed.
TRAINING
This month, the training the crews conducted heat emergencies and engine company operations on auto extrication.
Every shift was able to practice extrication on vehicles that were supplied by Pete’s Towing from Soledad.
EQUIPMENT
Our new Engine (E8111) was picked up from the shop for a recall and a crack that was noted on the top of the cab, all covered by warranty. E8111 is back in service.
PREVENTION
Two re-inspections were conducted in the month of September. 29 CITY OF GONZALES
AGENDA
ITEM
5.7 ACTIVITY REPORT
TO: Honorable Mayor Rios and City Council
DATE: October 19, 2026
FROM: Keith Wise, Chief of Police
THROUGH: Carmen Gil, City Manager
SUBJECT: Police Department Activity Report
POLICE DEPARTMENT
Crime and Arrests
The Gonzales Police Department investigated 7 Part I Crimes (Homicide, Robbery, Teft and Burglary, Rape, Assault and Motor Vehicle Theft) during the month of September 2026. During the same time last year, there were 8 Part I crimes.
During the month of September, Officers made 9 arrests. During the same time last year, there were a total of 13 arrests. During the month of September, the Department-initiated 33 Abandoned Vehicle Abatement (AVA) / 72- hour parking violation cases. 17 violations were self-abated by the registered owner upon notification of the Municipal Code Violation. During the month of September, the department responded to 3Alarm Calls.
Calls for Service
The Department responded to 518 calls for service in September 2026. During this month there were a total of 69 reports taken; 61 Crime / informational, 6 TrafficAccidents and 2 Driving under the Influence (DIU).
Animal Control
During the month of September 2026, the Animal Control Officer (ACO) provided the following services. *NUMBERS DO NOT REFLECTANIMALS TRANSPORTED BY THE PUBLIC TO THE SPCA* TotalAnimals
Captured
Dead Injured Bite Cases
Returned to
Owner
Transported to
SPCA
Cats 0 4 0 0 0 0
Dogs 1 0 0 1 0 1
Total 1 4 0 0 0 1
30 Significant Cases
Although the Police Department responded to 518 calls for service during the month of September 2026, the most significant cases involved 7 Part I cases. 0 - Homicide, 1 - Rape, 0 - Robbery, 2 - Assault, 0 - Burglary, 4 - Larcenies and 0 - Stolen Motor Vehicle Thefts.
Training
The Department continues to conduct in-house training.
On September 10, 2026, Sergeant Melgoza and Corporal Pruneda attended a specialized Arrest and Control training session. The training was instructed and facilitated internally by Officer Correa, who is certified as our department's designatedArrest and Control Trainer.
Corporal Fierros attended a POST-approved Field Training Program on September 14-18, 2026, in Lompoc California.
Officer Julian Lopez successfully completed a 40-hour School Resource Officer (SRO) training course in Corona, California, hosted by the Corona Police Department.
Sergeant Melgoza attended the CALEBI Conference (California Associated of Law Enforcement Background Investigators) in South Lake Tahoe on September 28-30, 2026. This is a POST certified training conference tailored specifically for Peace Officer background investigators in California. 31 CITY OF GONZALES
AGENDA
ITEM
5.8 ACTIVITY REPORT
TO: Honorable Mayor Rios and City Council
DATE: October 19, 2026
FROM: Octavio Hurtado, Public Works Director/City Engineer THROUGH: Carmen Gil, City Manager
SUBJECT: Public Works/City Engineer Department Activity Report
PUBLIC WORKS/CITY ENGINEER DEPARTMENT
WASTEWATER
Existing Municipal Wastewater Treatment Plant
Pond B is 100% empty. Staff plan to remove 8 - 12 inches of soil from the bottom of the pond and use the soil to continue to build up the perimeter berm along the northerly property line of the Wastewater Treatment Plant.
Staff are working on maximizing its available storage in anticipation of the effects of El Nino on the winter season.
The newly dredged Pond C continues to be used sparingly.
Public works staff continue to use the rented loader and dump truck to clean out the smaller percolation basins and to build up the new perimeter berm that was constructed by staff to prevent potential spills from reaching the neighboring agricultural fields.
Public works continues to grade the service roads in between the ponds to improve access.
We continue to maintain 12 inches of free board in our primary and secondary ponds as we are holding back the release of water to lengthen the treatment time to improve the percolation rate.
The Clarification system that was rented from Rain for Rent has been removed, eliminating the monthly rental costs being incurred by the City. The rented trailer mounted pump continues to be rented from Rain for Rent until the arrival of the City purchased pump to eliminate the rental cost of the pump.
The aeration system is working at 100% capacity. Staff is in the process of having the spare unit serviced.
All three lift station pumps at the headworks are working properly.
Staff continue to check the influent and effluent, freeboard, and run daily inspections, and collect samples for the 32 County to conduct lab testing of Dissolved Oxygen levels, pH, and conductivity. Staff also continue to work on general plant maintenance and cleanup including weed control and access road maintenance. Staff continue to monitor and up-keep the lift stations around the City Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturdays.
Industrial Wastewater Treatment Facility
The Contractor (Gateway Pacific) began construction on 7/21/2025. The contractor, construction manager, design consultant, and City staff hold progress meetings every two weeks to discuss open items, status of submittal reviews, schedule, and other business. The Contractor has completed pouring the concrete at the headworks and has completed grading the ponds and continues to finalize the necessary piping.
Gateway is in the process of installing the lining in the ponds and completing the aeration piping.
The Contract Chief Building Official has begun conducting inspections of the project as needed to assure the Chief Building Official will be able to sign off on the project when complete.
WATER
Well 5 is now working after major repairs were performed including replacing the casing by Maggiora Brothers.
Well 7 is currently out of service. Maggiora Brothers is currently assessing the condition of the well and putting together a work plan and proposal.
Staff tests for chlorine residual daily, and maintenance on the water system. Staff repairs chlorine leaks and performs maintenance on the wells. For the month of March, all water samples taken at the sampling stations for the water system tested negative for coliform. There were 82 door tags this month, prior to shut offs. We had 22 disconnects because of non-payment.
PARKS
A large, mature tree at Central Park was unfortunately removed due to signs of a heavily rotted center core. The tree was removed as it was deemed a threat to the public. Losing trees is unfortunate and a loss to the community. The City has prepared a grant application to plant trees in the known gaps in City parks. In assessing the City park trees, it was evident Centennial Park has very little trees and shade. See the Grant Opportunities section of this activity report.
Staff continue to mow turf areas in the City parks regularly. Staff cleans restrooms, cleans trash, and make repairs in parks as necessary. Staff provided support Relay for Life color the town purple event at Central Park.
GOVERNMENT BUILDINGS
Staff continues to get the bugs out of the Community Center making sure items under warrantee are repaired by the contractor. 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.
DRAINAGE/WEED CONTROL/FIRE PREVENTION
Winter Storm Preparedness efforts are in process and high on the priority list.
They include the following:
Public Works crews are inspecting culverts, clearing debris, and cleaning storm infrastructure to improve water flow.
We will be purchasing a container to place it on the east side of Highway 101 to stock it with emergency 33 supplies such as sand bags, trash pumps and other items.
Sandbags are being ordered.A request will be put into the County to see if they will supply some as well.
Public Works will make sure all equipment is ready for use. That means chain saws are operational, fueled and ready for use.
Staffing contingencies will be in place to scale up during emergencies to go above and beyond the one on-call person.
Staff has been meeting with property owners of the Slough to inform them of the importance of making sure the slough is able to handle the storm flows expected this winter. Staff has been in communications with a number of property owners and empathized the risk of loose debris such as tree limbs and tree trunks as well as anything that will limit the flows of the stormwater. Work along the property owned by the Gonzales High School has been completed.
Public Works crews will be clearing all culverts.
STREETS
Public works crews are putting extra effort into cleaning the Downtown streets sidewalk and street furniture. This involves hand sweeping street and curb and gutters due to the buildup of sediment over time due to the inability for the street sweeper to be effective due to the various landscape/hardscape pop outs.
Public works staff continues to trim trees affecting pedestrian access to sidewalks. The latest work was performed along Fairview Drive.
GRANT OPPORTUNITIES
The City participated in the preparation of an Extreme Heat and Community Resilience Grant application in the amount of $922,970.
$751,544 for infrastructure deployment and up to $171,426 for staff time reimbursement for the 3-4 year duration of the program. The scope of the grant request is to install mid-size trees at various City Parks including Central Park, Centennial Park, Myer Park, Gonzales Aquatic Center, and the adjacent Community Garden. The project also includes the installation of water stations at some of the above-mentioned parks.
The purpose of this project is to disrupt the harm from extreme heat by enhancing cooling capacity of existing parks in the City of Gonzales. It has been proven that the areas under a mature tree can be 10 degrees cooler than if standing in the direct sun.
EVENTS
Public works removed the Relay for Life banners and put up the Gonzales High School senior’s banners downtown to celebrate the achievement of the City of Gonzales’ youth.
ATTACHMENTS:
Activity Report Pictures
34 September Activity Report
PW participated in a roof tie-back training at the Community Center
PW staff trimming trees on Fairview
Dr
Extreme Heat and Community Resilience Grant will help with the lack of trees at Centennial Park
PW staff cleaning Fourth St
35 CITY OF GONZALES
AGENDA
ITEM
5.9 STAFF REPORT
TO: Honorable Mayor Rios and City Council
DATE: October 19, 2026
FROM: Alex Avalos, Finance Manager
THROUGH: Carmen Gil, City Manager
SUBJECT: Closure of City Offices for Winter Holidays 2026-2027
FINANCE DEPARTMENT
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends the City Council authorize the City Manager to close City offices from December 24, 2026, through January 1, 2027.
BACKGROUND
The Christmas holiday falls on Friday this year. The approved holiday schedule lists Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. December 28
th
, 29
th
, 30
th
, and 31
st would be normal workdays. Scheduling staff holiday
vacation days can be a challenge given the small staff. This encourages everyone to take their vacation. Employees have taken vacation time off during previous closures. Emergency services and shift employees remain on the job during office closures. When City Hall is closed, the Police Department office is also closed. However, the staff on duty are still working.
REVIEWAND ANALYSIS
Staff scheduling would be greatly improved if everyone is able to take holiday vacation at the same time. Some employees will use compensation time earned for overtime, while others will use vacation time for the four days requested this year. Sick time will not be allowed.
Some staff will take the opportunity to clean and clear files preparing for 2027. Public Works standby personnel will handle utility connects and disconnects during this time. The utility due date will remain on December 22 nd
. The
utility due date will not be moved as a result of the closure of city offices for the winter holidays. If the City Council approves this holiday closure, staff will receive notice as soon as possible. Staff absences on Monday, January 4, 2027, without prior approval would require a doctor’s excuse.
All City offices would be closed if this is approved. This closure would not affect Police, Fire or Public Works emergency response.
36 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: This approach to the holiday vacation time is centered on a family-friendly work environment. It also supports a reduction of liability of time on the books by encouraging staff to take their vacation time. Staff is still committed to providing quality service.
Explain how the Recommendation Directly Implements the Mission The City Council and Staf 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.
Explain: This request will not increase cost. This use of resources is a coordinated effort to continue providing excellent services while improving employee vacation scheduling.
City services will be delivered in a cost-ef ective, respectful, and friendly manner to insure the safety and well-being of the residents and the promotion of business, recreational, housing and employment opportunities in an environmentally sustainable manner.
Explain:This program is a cost-effective use of employee hours. Vacation time accumulates and there is limited time to coordinate coverage while others maintain core functions. It also helps us reduce liability by encouraging employees to take their accrued time.
Strong fiscal policies allow us to provide appropriate infrastructure for:
• Public Safety X Yes No N/A
• Housing Yes No X N/A
• Recreation Yes No X N/A
• Environment Yes No X N/A
• Education Yes No X N/A
Explain: There is no cost to this program and vital services continue.
ALTERNATIVES
Alternative 1. The City Council could determine this closure is too disruptive to the public and deny the request. Staff will coordinate holiday vacation requests should this alternative be chosen.
Alternative 2. The City Council could modify the request and maintain some staff at City Hall to keep the doors open.
Staff will coordinate efforts should this alternative be chosen.
BUDGET IMPACT
There is no budget impact for this closure.
CONCLUSION
Staff recommends the City Council authorize the City Manager to close City offices from December 24, 2026, through January 1, 2027.
37 CITY OF GONZALES
AGENDA
ITEM
6.1 STAFF REPORT
TO: Honorable Mayor Rios and City Council
DATE: October 19, 2026
FROM: Octavio Hurtado, Public Works Director/City Engineer THROUGH: Carmen Gil, City Manager
SUBJECT: Presentation on El Niño Storm Emergency Response Efforts Staff Report
Public Comment
Council Discussion
Council Action - Receive presentation
PUBLIC WORKS/CITY ENGINEER DEPARTMENT
38