Jackson City Council Agenda
Monday, August 24, 2026 – 6:30 PM Regular Meeting
Jackson City Hall, 33 Broadway, Jackson, California 95642 Public Teleconference Line: 1-650-419-1505
Meeting ID: 070671908
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One tap to join audio only from a smartphone: +16504191505 NOTE: The City Council meeting will be held in person at the address listed above. The City may also provide a courtesy option for the public to observe the meeting remotely using the teleconference line or RingCentral internet-based service option listed above. Callers will be muted upon entry and live remote public comment will not be taken unless required by Government Code section 54953, et. seq. If remote public comment is required, the Mayor will make announcement, and RingCentral participants may request to speak by selecting the “Raise Hand” icon, and telephone-only participants should wait until the Mayor opens public comment and then state their name for the record when prompted.
1. APPROVAL OF AGENDA.
Approval of agenda for this date; any and all off-agenda items must be approved by the City Council (pursuant to §54954.2 of the Government Code).
2. PUBLIC MATTERS NOT ON THE AGENDA.
Discussion items only, no action will be taken. Any person may address the Council at this time on any subject within the jurisdiction of the City Council. Please note – there is a three (3) minute limit.
3. CONSENT CALENDAR.
Items listed on the consent calendar are considered routine and may be enacted by one motion. Any item may be removed for discussion at the request of a Council member. a. Approval of August 13, 2026 meeting minutes adjourned from August 10, 2026. b. Approval of Expenditure Report in the amount of $483,124.33. c. Approval of Resolution No. 2026-34 Accepting the Completion of 2026 Sewer Improvement – Project B and filing a Notice of Completion and Authorizing Recordation Therefore. d. Approval of Resolution No. 2026-35 Authorizing Full-Time Positions in the City Service Effective July 1, 2026, in Accordance with the Operating Budget for the 2026-27 Fiscal Year and Superseding Resolution No. 2026-33.
e. Approval of the Website Accessibility Policy.
f. Approval of the Operational Guide for Effective Communication, Auxiliary Aids, and Interpreter Services.
g. Receive Homeless Outreach Coordinator Report for July 2026.
4. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS.
This section is to provide staff an opportunity to present oral status reports on issues. No legal action is expected to be taken by the Council.
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Jackson City Council Agenda Monday, August 24, 2026
5. COUNCIL REPORTS.
This section is to provide Council members an opportunity to present reports on their activities and to request items be placed on future agendas.
6. DISCUSSION CALENDAR.
a. Receive, discuss and provide direction regarding (verbal) report from the Homeless Outreach Coordinator regarding the City’s response to outreach efforts and services [Christine Platt]. b. Introduction and waive the first reading of an Ordinance amending sections 3.24.020, 3.24.030,
3.24.040, 3.24.200, 3.24.220, and 3.24.230 of Chapter 3.24 of the Jackson Municipal Code relating to Transient Occupancy Tax.
7. REGULAR MEETING ADJOURNMENT.
Regular meeting adjournment.
8. CLOSED SESSION.
CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS
Agency designated representatives: City Manager
Employee organization: SEIU, JPOA, JFA
CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL—EXISTING LITIGATION
(Paragraph (1) of subdivision (d) of Section 54956.9)
Name of case: Mackey v. City of Jackson, Amador Superior Court, Case No. 23-CV-13061
9. CLOSED SESSION ADJOURNMENT.
Closed Session adjournment.
UPCOMING MEETINGS:
August 25, 2026 6:30 pm Planning Commission Special Meeting August 26, 2026 1:30 pm Economic Development Committee Meeting September 9, 2026 10:00 am Cemetery Committee Meeting
September 14, 2026 6:30 pm City Council Meeting
September 21, 2026 6:30 pm Planning Commission Meeting (TBD) September 28, 2026 6:30 pm City Council Meeting
UPCOMING CLOSURE DATES FOR CITY OFFICE:
September 7, 2026 Labor Day
Posted: August 21, 2026 City Hall, 33 Broadway, Jackson
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Jackson City Council Agenda Monday, August 24, 2026
Agenda materials will be available for review (pursuant to §54957.5 Government Code Section) in the City Clerk’s office in City Hall.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, including auxiliary aids or services, you should contact the Office of the City Clerk at (209) 223-1646 (voice) or (209) 223-3141 (fax). Notification 72 hours prior to the meeting will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to assure accessibility to this meeting.
Visit our website at http://ci.jackson.ca.us for copies of previous agendas, minutes, and City budget.
CITY OF JACKSON
City Council Draft Meeting Minutes
August 13, 2026 (Adjourned from August 10, 2026)
Mayor and Council Members
Chad Simmons, Mayor
Steve McLean, Vice Mayor
Max Godde, Council Member
Connie Gonsalves, Council Member
Sierra McLean, Council Member
ABSENT: None
John Georgette, City Clerk
Josh Nelson, City Attorney (Attended Remotely)
Staff Members:
Robert Kightlinger, City Manager
Chris Mynderup, Police Chief
Ryan Pidgeon, Fire Chief
Ben Diedrich, Building Permit Tech
Daphne Parker, Pool Director
Mayor Simmons called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. and led the Pledge of Allegiance.
1. CEREMONIAL.
Introduction and swearing in of new employee, City Manager: Robert Kightlinger.
Robert Kightlinger took the oath of office as Jackson City Manager. Mayor Simmons welcomed him and noted that the appointment followed an extensive recruitment involving approximately 33 applicants and two rounds of interviews.
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA.
Approval of agenda for this date; any and all off-agenda items must be approved by the City Council (pursuant to §54954.2 of the Government Code).
Motion to Approve the City Council Meeting Agenda dated August 13, 2026, as presented.
Moved by Councilmember Sierra McLean, seconded by Councilmember Steve McLean, and carried by a 5 to 0 vote:
AYES: Simmons, Steve McLean, Godde, Gonsalves, Sierra McLean NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
3. PUBLIC MATTERS NOT ON THE AGENDA.
Discussion items only, no action will be taken. Any person may address the Council at this time on any subject within the jurisdiction of the City Council. Please note – there is a three (3) minute limit.
No Public Comment was received.
4. CONSENT CALENDAR.
Items listed on the consent calendar are considered routine and may be enacted by one motion.
Any item may be removed for discussion at the request of a Council member.
____ August 13, 2026 City Council Special Meeting Minutes__ a. Approval of July 13, 2026 Regular & Special Meeting Minutes. b. Approval of Expenditure Reports in the amount of $1,089,935.32 (July) & $128,170.91 (August) c. Approval of the July 2026 Payroll Expenditure Report in the total amount of $503,974.96 d. Receive Treasurer’s Report for May 2026
e. Receive Building Department Monthly Report for July 2026 f. Receive Fire Department Monthly Report for July 2026 g. Receive Police Department Monthly Report for July 2026 h. Receive status update on active grant list.
i. Approval of the Professional Services Agreement between the City of Jackson and Hildebrand Consulting LLC for the 2026 Cost Allocation Plan. j. Approval of Resolution 2026-29 Accepting the Completion of the City Hall HVAC and Filing a Notice of Completion and Authorizing Recordation Therefore. k. Receive Public Works Sewer Sanitation Management Plan Annual Report l. Approve City Manager Employment Agreement
Mayor Simmons amended Item L, of the City Manager Employment Agreement, Section 13(c), to change the date compensation commenced from August 3, 2026, to August 1, 2026.
Motion to Approve the Consent Calendar dated August 13, 2026 as amended. Moved by Councilmember Godde, seconded by Councilmember Gonsalves, and carried by a 5 to 0 vote:
AYES: Simmons, Steve McLean, Godde, Gonsalves, Sierra McLean NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
5. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS.
This section is to provide staff an opportunity to present oral status reports on issues. No legal action is expected to be taken by the Council.
Public Works Superintendent, Bree Wilder - Thanked Simmons Landscape for work at the cemetery.
PSI began year two of the City's five-year sewer CCTV inspection and cleaning program. City crews repaired dry rot and completed the pool roof work. A pool skimmer plumbing leak was isolated and will be investigated during the winter. Sister City signs were installed at the parking garage and highway locations.
Fire Chief, Ryan Pidgeon – Reported that the department provided mutual aid at the Underwood incident and that Engine 6331 had been deployed nearly continuously since late July, including five days at the Dove Fire and subsequent assignments at the Gann and Timber fires. Department personnel had accumulated approximately 19 deployment days and received positive feedback from their strike team leader. At National Night Out, the department trained residents in the use of naloxone/Narcan. The public AED remained operational.
Police Chief, Chris Mynderup – Reported on recent department activities, including attending the July 26 MADD Awards in Sacramento, where Officer Jordan Thurman was recognized for 71 DUI arrests and his efforts that contributed to securing an approximately $90,000 CHP grant. On August 4, the
____ August 13, 2026 City Council Special Meeting Minutes__ Department provided mutual aid to the Calaveras County Sheriff’s Department during the fire, with Officers Thurman and Morrison conducting overnight patrols in evacuated areas. The Chief also thanked the agencies, organizations, and local grocery stores that supported the City’s National Night Out event. Mayor Simmons thanked Chief Mynderup for successfully serving as Interim City Manger during the transition.
City Attorney, Josh Nelson – Provided an update on AB 1383, which would increase PERS retirement benefits and employer costs for safety employees and increase the PEPRA compensation cap for certain employees. The bill has passed the Assembly and is currently in the Senate suspense file, with a decision expected by the end of August. Attorney Nelson noted that several local government organizations have expressed opposition and that further updates will be provided as the legislation progresses.
City Manager, Robert Kightlinger – Presented an overview of the Fiscal Year 2026–27 budget, noting that although municipal services are expected to continue, additional revenues and/or targeted expenditure reductions will be necessary to address a projected General Fund deficit approaching $400,000. The shortfall is primarily attributed to increased PERS and healthcare costs, inflation, and lower tax revenues resulting from local business closures. The City Manager reviewed priorities and upcoming projects for the Police, Fire, Public Works, Water, Wastewater, Building Code, and Pool operations. The pool, which operates as an Enterprise Fund, is not currently financially self-sustaining and will require City support while staff pursues grant funding for needed repairs. City Manager Kightlinger also recognized staff for their efforts throughout the year, including Pool Director Parker for her work during the pool season.
6. COUNCIL REPORTS.
This section is to provide Council members an opportunity to present reports on their activities and to request items be placed on future agendas.
Councilmember Gonsalves – Attended the Amador County Fair and congratulated Erica for the City of Jackson window display, which received second place. She also welcomed City Manager Kightlinger and his family.
Councilmember Godde – Thanked Chief Mynderup for serving as Interim City Manager, welcomed City Manager Kightlinger, and thanked Simmons Landscape for its cemetery work.
Councilmember Sierra McLean – Attended a Fire Department training that included the Explorer Program, met with Amador County Public Health representative Fernando Gutierrez regarding tobacco-use policies and community education, and attended National Night Out.
Councilmember Steve McLean – Attended the Amador County Fair and a Chamber mixer and welcomed the new City Manager.
Mayor Simmons – Reported on LAFCO and Economic Development Committee meetings, National Night Out, a PG&E community outreach meeting, and an Amador County Transportation Commission meeting with City Manager Kightlinger. The Sutter Street project is not currently programmed for funding; the City will pursue grants and future funding opportunities. He congratulated staff on the City's second-place fair display and thanked the Jackson Lions Club for committing $3,000 to support the Explorer Program at three community
____ August 13, 2026 City Council Special Meeting Minutes__ events, with a possible matching grant being explored.
7. DISCUSSION CALENDAR.
a. Receive Jackson Pool End of Season Review [Daphne Parker, Pool Director].
Pool Director Daphne Parker recognized the professionalism, leadership, teamwork, and commitment of the 2026 pool staff. She announced that a full season report, including attendance, programs, operations, and financial information, would be presented at the August 24 meeting.
Gavin Mynderup: Recognized for continued growth as pool manager, strong leadership and reliability, and his effective response to two significant medical emergencies during the season.
Kaylee Cronin: Recognized for exceptional work ethic, leadership, communication, and service during her second season, as well as her positive influence on younger staff.
Paitlee Cross: Received the 2026 Golden Whistle Award for excellence in safety, dependability, leadership, and dedication. She became lifeguard-certified, attended all available in-service trainings, accepted additional responsibilities, and received positive feedback as a swim instructor. b. Public Hearing: Resolution No. 2026-30 Approving and Confirming the Report of Delinquent Utilities Charges and Requesting Amador County to Collect such Charges on the Tax Roll [Dalacie Blankenship, Finance Manager] Finance Manager Blankenship explained that the City annually transfers delinquent utility charges to the County tax roll after other collection efforts have been exhausted. Three properties were included, and all required notices had been completed. Councilmember Gonsalves asked if the property taxes on these parcels were up to date. Blankenship stated that, to the City's knowledge, property taxes on the parcels were current.
Mayor Simmons called for public comment, hearing none he called for a motion.
Motion to adopt Resolution No. 2026-30, originally noticed for August 10, 2026, in which the public hearing was continued to this meeting, approving and confirming the report of delinquent utility charges and requesting that Amador County collect the charges on the tax roll. Moved by Councilmember Gonsalves, seconded by Councilmember Sierra McLean, and carried by a 5 to 0 vote:
AYES: Simmons, Steve McLean, Godde, Gonsalves, Sierra McLean NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
c. Consideration and possible adoption of Fiscal Year 2026-27 Operating Budget and Capital Improvement Budget by reference, including information regarding vacancies and recruiting efforts:
• Adoption of Resolution No. 2026-31 Setting a Tax Related Appropriation Limit in Compliance with Article XIIIB of the Constitution of the State of California for Fiscal Year 2026-27.
____ August 13, 2026 City Council Special Meeting Minutes__ • Adoption of Resolution No. 2026-32 Approving the City Operation Budget and City Capital Improvement Budget for Fiscal Year 2026-27. • Adoption of Resolution No. 2026-33 Authorizing Full-Time Positions in the City Service Effective July 1, 2026, in Accordance with the Operating Budget for the 2026-27 Fiscal Year.
(Budget message includes Council Strategic Goals & Objectives, FY 26/27 In Review/Team Accomplishments; FY 26/27 Budget Sheets: summary, CIP details, expenditures by fund).
No Council discussion. Mayor Simmons called for public comment and hearing none called for a motion.
Motion to adopt Resolutions 2026-31, 2026-32 and 2026-33 for the Fiscal Year 2026-27 Operating Budget and Capital Improvement Budget by reference, including information regarding vacancies and recruiting efforts. Moved by Vice Chair Steve McLean, seconded by Councilmember Gonsalves, and carried by a 5 to 0 vote:
AYES: Simmons, Steve McLean, Godde, Gonsalves, Sierra McLean NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
8. REGULAR MEETING ADJOURNMENT.
Mayor Simmons adjournment the regular meeting at 7:02 pm.
ATTEST:
__________________________________ __________________________________ John Georgette, City Clerk Date Approved
CITY OF JACKSON
Council Meeting Memorandum
To: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
From: Matt Ospital, City Engineer
Date: August 19, 2026
Subject: 2026 Sewer Improvement – Project B
DISCUSSION
All contract items of work for the 2026 Sewer Improvement – Project B have been completed in substantial compliance with the plans, specifications, codes, and standards of the City. All work was determined complete on August 14, 2026.
Final Project Costs are as follows:
Original Contract Amount $ 195,330.00
Change Orders $ 0.00
Final Contract Amount $ 195,330.00
RECOMMENDATION
I hereby recommend that the City Council, by resolution, accept this work as complete and authorize filing of the Notice of Completion.
Enclosures:
Notice of Completion
Resolution
Recording requested by:
CITY OF JACKSON
OFFICE OF THE CITY ENGINEER
_______________________________
When recorded, mail to:
City Manager
City of Jackson
33 Broadway
Jackson, CA 95642
NOTICE OF COMPLETION
CITY OF JACKSON
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN of the completion of a Work of Improvement as follows:
Date of Completion: August 14, 2026
Name and Address of the Owner: City of Jackson, 33 Broadway, Jackson, CA 95642 Nature of the Interest or Estate of the Owner: Owner in fee simple.
Description of the Site: 2026 Sewer Improvement – Project B Name and Address of the Contractor for the above Work of Improvement: The Trenchless Co., 6201 Elvas Avenue, Sacramento, CA 95819
General Statement of Kind of Work Done or Materials Furnished: Sewer line replacement, CIPP lining work, and miscellaneous appurtenances.
CITY OF JACKSON – OWNER
By_______________________________________
Robert Kightlinger, City Manager
ROBERT KIGHTLINGER declares:
I am the City Manager of the City of Jackson, the municipal corporation that executed the foregoing notice as owner of the aforesaid interest or estate in the property therein described; that I make this verification on behalf of said municipal corporation; that I have read this Notice of Completion and know the contents thereof, and that the facts stated therein are true.
I declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct. Executed at Jackson, California this 24th day of August 2026.
_______________________________________
Robert Kightlinger, City Manager
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-34
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF JACKSON ACCEPTING THE COMPLETION OF THE 2026 SEWER IMPROVEMENT –
PROJECT B, AND FILING A NOTICE OF COMPLETION AND AUTHORIZING
RECORDATION THEREFORE
WHEREAS, the contractor of work, The Trenchless Co., completed all work according to the plans and specifications on August 14, 2026; and WHEREAS, the improvements consisted of sewer line replacement, CIPP lining work, and miscellaneous appurtenances.
WHEREAS, the improvements have been completed to the satisfaction of the City Engineering Department.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Jackson does hereby accept the completed public improvements and authorizes the City Clerk to file a Notice of Completion with the Amador County Recorder.
The foregoing resolution was duly passed and adopted by the City Council of the City of Jackson at a regular meeting on the 24th day of August 2026 by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
CITY OF JACKSON
______________________________________
Chad Simmons, Mayor
ATTEST:
______________________________________
John Georgette, City Clerk
Resolution No. 2026-35
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
JACKSON AUTHORIZING FULL-TIME POSITIONS IN THE
CITY SERVICE & RECOGNITION OF POSITION VACANCY
EFFECTIVE JULY 1, 2026, IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE
OPERATING BUDGET FOR THE 2026-27 FISCAL YEAR
WHEREAS, City Council desires to authorize positions as required by law and as provided by the FY 26-27 operational budget based on available information at time of preparation, and;
WHEREAS, City Council recognizes that personnel needs change from time to time and wishes to remain adaptable to changing needs to extent permitted by law.
Now, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Jackson as follows:
1. The City Council Hereby authorized the following full-time and part-time positions in each of the City Departments as provided for in the 2026-2027 fiscal year operating budget:
Position Number of Authorized Positions
Administration
City Manager 1
Finance/HR Manger (in transition) 1
Accounting Manager (in transition) 1
Deputy City Clerk 0
Administrative Assistant I/II 1
Accounting Services II 1
Accounting Services III 2
Accounting Services IV 0
Senior Building Inspector 0
Building Inspector 1
Permit Technician 1
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Department Total 9
Parks & Recreation (Pool Program, Seasonal)
Pool Director (FT during swim season) 0.38
Pool Manager (1 position) 0.25
Assistant Pool Manager (2 positions at 0.25) 0.5
Swim Instructor (2 positions at 0.25) 0.5
Lifeguard (8 positions at 0.25) 2
Department Total 3.63
Public Works (Streets & Drainage, Parks, Facilities, Sewer Collection, Water & Pool) Superintendent Public Works 1
Assistant Public Works Superintendent 1
Maintenance Worker III 2
Maintenance Worker II 1
Maintenance Worker I 3
Department Total 8
Wastewater Treatment Plant
Chief Plant Operator- Wastewater 1
Reclamation Plant Operator II/III 2
Reclamation Plant Operator I 1
Department Total 4
Police Department
Police Chief 1
Police Captain 1
Police Sergeant 1
Police Officers 6
Police Detective 1
Senior Police Clerk/Dispatcher 1
Homelessness Outreach Coordinator (grant funded) 1.5
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Department Total 12.5
Fire Department
Fire Chief 1
Fire Captain 2
Fire Engineer 2
Firefighter 2
Volunteer Fire Chief 1
Volunteer Fire Battalion Chief 1
_____
Department Total 9
Total 46.13
2. The City Council Hereby recognize the following Position Vacancy Report:
Vacancy Rate: 11%
Position Department Number of Vacancy
Started Vacancies
Accounting Services IV Administration 1 10/31/2024
Deputy City Clerk Administration 1 10/08/2025
Senior Building Inspector Administration 1 02/06/2022
Maintenance Worker I Public Works 1 01/10/2020
Police Officer Police 1 03/15/2025
3. Direct the City Manager to recommend necessary changes for City Council to consider during the fiscal year.
The foregoing resolution was duly passed and adopted by the City Council of the City of Jackson at a regular meeting on the 24th day of August, 2026, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
ATTEST: CITY OF JACKSON
John Georgette, City Clerk Chad Simmons, Mayor
City of Jackson Website Accessibility Policy
Purpose
The City of Jackson is committed to providing digital services that are accessible to all residents, visitors, businesses, and individuals with disabilities. The City strives to ensure that all official City websites and web-based services are accessible, usable, and compliant with recognized accessibility standards.
Policy Statement
The City of Jackson will design, develop, maintain, and update its public-facing websites in accordance with the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), Version 2.1, Level AA, or any subsequent version adopted by the City as the recognized accessibility standard.
Accessibility will be incorporated into the planning, development, procurement, maintenance, and ongoing management of all City web content and online services.
Scope
This policy applies to:
• All public-facing webpages and websites owned, operated, or maintained by the City of Jackson. • Web applications, online forms, and digital documents published on City websites. • Third-party web services procured or implemented by the City when accessibility requirements can reasonably be included in contracts or agreements.
Accessibility Standards
The City will make reasonable efforts to ensure that website content:
• Is perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust as defined by the W3C Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG).
• Meets WCAG 2.1 Level AA success criteria unless an exception is permitted by law or technically infeasible.
• Is tested periodically using automated accessibility tools and manual evaluation methods. • Is reviewed during website updates and the publication of new content.
Responsibilities
Department directors, content editors, web administrators, and employees responsible for publishing online content shall:
• Create and maintain accessible web content.
• Use accessible document formats whenever possible.
• Include alternative text for meaningful images.
• Ensure videos include captions and, when appropriate, transcripts. • Use headings, tables, links, colors, and forms in a manner consistent with accessibility best practices. • Participate in accessibility training as required.
The City's designated website administrator or Information Technology Department shall oversee
implementation of this policy, conduct periodic accessibility reviews, and coordinate remediation of identified accessibility issues.
Accessibility Feedback
The City welcomes feedback regarding the accessibility of its websites. Individuals who encounter accessibility barriers or require information in an alternative format may contact the City through the published accessibility contact information on the City's website.
The City will make reasonable efforts to respond promptly and to provide accessible alternatives when necessary.
Continuous Improvement
The City of Jackson recognizes that accessibility is an ongoing process. The City will regularly review its websites, monitor changes to applicable accessibility standards, and implement improvements to enhance equal access to online information and services.
Effective Date
This policy shall become effective upon adoption by the City of Jackson City Council and shall remain in effect until amended or rescinded.
MEMORANDUM
TO: All City Employees, Public Counter Staff, and Board/Commission Members FROM: Office of the City Manager / ADA Coordinator
DATE: August 21, 2026
SUBJECT: Operational Guide: Effective Communication, Auxiliary Aids, and Interpreter Services Under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the City of Jackson must ensure that communication with applicants, participants, and members of the public with disabilities is as effective as communication with others.
When a member of the public requests an auxiliary aid or service to participate in a city program, meeting, or service, use this resource directory and operational guide to fulfill the request promptly.
1. Interpreter Services (Sign Language, Oral, & Cued Speech) If a resident requires an interpreter for a public meeting, appointment, or counter interaction, contact the following approved networks immediately:
• American Sign Language (ASL) & Oral Interpreters: Contact the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) to locate a certified local provider.
• Cued Speech Interpreters: Access the National Cued Speech Association (NCSA) "Cuemmunity Directory" to secure a qualified cued speech transliterator. • Language Translation Software: For immediate, non-legal counter interactions, use approved city interpreter software installed on your department tablets or workstations.
2. Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) Services
For on-demand, live video interpretation when an in-person interpreter is not immediately available on-site:
• Service Provider: Utilize our active city account with Boostlingo (Boostlingo.com). • Equipment: Launch the Boostlingo application via the dedicated city tablet located at the main public service counter.
• Requirement: Ensure the device has a high-speed internet connection and a clear, unobstructed view of both the employee and the resident.
3. Assistive Listening Systems & Devices
For individuals who are hard of hearing and attending a public meeting:
• Location: Permanent Assistive Listening Devices (ALDs) are stored and available in the City Council Chambers.
• Distribution: Staff must check out a receiver/headset to any member of the public upon request before the start of a meeting. No deposit or proof of disability may be required. • Maintenance: Regularly test the batteries and headset sanitation packs before scheduled public hearings.
4. Braille Transcription Services
If a resident requests documents, agendas, or forms in Braille, contact our approved vendor immediately to process the transcription. Do not quote these specific internal fees to the resident, as the city absorbs all accessibility costs:
• Vendor: Avantpage (Avantpage.com) [2, 3]
• Phone Numbers: 877-ANY-LANG or 530-750-2040
• Internal Rate Structure:
o $6.00 per page for text transcription
o $20.00 per graphic/image conversion
o $65.00 minimum project fee
o $75.00 next-day overnight shipping / $50.00 standard regular shipping
5. Website Accessibility, Screen Readers, & Audio Logs
• Meeting Audio Records: Official audio recordings for City Council meetings and public hearings are publicly available and can be found directly on the city website. • Document Formats: The City is actively working to optimize digital content for screen reading software by migrating public files and uploading future documents in HTML or plain text formats. • Local Screen Reader Access: If a resident needs immediate access to a computer equipped with screen reader software, refer them to the Jackson Library (Amador County Library branch in Jackson), which has assistive screen readers actively installed on their public computers. • Closed Captioning: The City is working on technology upgrades to enable automated and verified closed captioning for live broadcasts and archived meeting logs in the near future.
6. Timelines for Public Requests
While the city accommodates drop-in requests via VRI software whenever possible, complex accommodations (like in-person ASL interpreters or Braille printing) require advanced planning.
Our public notices advise residents to submit requests at least 72 hours in advance of a public meeting. If a request comes in with shorter notice, staff must make every reasonable effort to secure the aid or service.
Homeless Outreach Program – City Council Update
• Program Data: With Kristin recently returning, we are bringing client files and program data current. Regular outreach and client services have continued, and I expect to resume complete program statistics with next month’s report.
• Shelter Placements: I worked closely with the local shelter to get two clients off the street and into shelter. I will continue case management with both clients as they work toward permanent housing.
• Community Reconnection: I assisted three individuals released from the Amador County Jail with returning to their home communities, where they have existing connections and support.
• HDAP: We are actively using the Housing and Disability Advocacy Program (HDAP) for eligible clients, including referrals and follow-up. HDAP can help stabilize eligible unsheltered individuals in housing while they work through the disability benefits process and toward longer-term housing.
• Medical Coordination: One client with significant medical needs was accompanied to the emergency room for approximately seven hours after our field medicine provider recommended immediate care. We are continuing to work with the client and medical providers on treatment and follow-up.
• Shower Program: We are aware of concerns regarding garbage left at the shower site after a recent program day. We have updated our closing procedure to include a final walkthrough and cleanup of the entire site before we leave each shower day. • ERF Round 5: The City’s ERF Round 5 application remains under review by HCD. I continue to monitor the funding process and will provide updates as additional information becomes available.
Program Note: Some client interventions require several hours of transportation, medical accompaniment, agency coordination, and follow-up. Client contact totals alone do not always reflect the level of case management being provided.
ORDINANCE NO. 743
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF JACKSON AMENDING SECTIONS 3.24.020, 3.24.030, 3.24.040, 3.24.200, 3.24.220, and 3.24.230 OF CHAPTER 3.24 OF THE JACKSON MUNICIPAL CODE
RELATING TO TRANSIENT OCCUPANCY TAX
WHEREAS, Chapter 3.24 of the Jackson Municipal Code provides for the administration and collection of the City’s transient occupancy tax; and WHEREAS, the City Council desires to make limited clarifying and corrective amendments to Sections 3.24.020, 3.24.030, 3.24.040, 3.24.200, 3.24.220, and 3.24.230, including conforming the treatment of time-share occupancy to applicable state law and correcting clerical and cross-reference errors; and
WHEREAS, Revenue and Taxation Code section 7283.5 establishes procedures governing tax clearance certificates in connection with the purchase or transfer of property subject to transient occupancy tax obligations, including procedures and deadlines for determining outstanding tax liability and provisions governing purchaser liability; and WHEREAS, the City Council desires to amend Section 3.24.230 to conform the City’s existing tax clearance and successor liability procedures to Revenue and Taxation Code section 7283.5; and
WHEREAS, the amendments adopted by this Ordinance are intended to clarify and conform the administration and collection of the City’s existing transient occupancy tax and do not increase the tax rate or expand the transactions or occupancy subject to the tax.
The City Council of the City of Jackson does ordain as follows:
SECTION 1. Recitals. The above recitals are true and correct and hereby incorporated into this Ordinance.
SECTION 2. Amendment to Section 3.24.020.
Section 3.24.020 of the Jackson Municipal Code is hereby amended in its entirety to read as follows:
3.24.020 Definitions.
Except where the context otherwise requires, the definitions given in this section shall govern the construction of this chapter:
“Hotel”
means any structure, or any portion of any structure, which is occupied or intended or designed for use or occupancy by transients, including but not limited to dwelling, lodging or sleeping purposes, and includes any hotel, inn, tourist home or house, motel, studio hotel, bachelor hotel, lodging house, rooming house, apartment house, time-share project or facility, dormitory, public or private club, mobile home, motor home recreation vehicle, house trailer or other similar structure or portion thereof, any duplex, triplex, or single
family dwelling units, except, any private dwelling or other dwelling unit or portion thereof rented only very infrequently and incidental to the normal occupancy by the owner or his or her family.
The authority to establish that housing or facility as a hotel as defined in this subsection shall vest solely with the tax administrator, and the owner or operator thereof shall file with the tax administrator such information as the tax administrator may require to determine and maintain such status.
“Occupancy”
means the use or possession, or the right or entitlement to the occupancy, use or possession, of any hotel, room, rooms or any portion thereof offered for rent to be used or occupied for dwelling, lodging or sleeping purposes regardless of the purpose for which the rooms are rented or provided.
“Operator”
means the person who is proprietor of the hotel whether in the capacity of owner, lessee, sublessee, mortgagee in possession, licensee, time-share project or facility manager or operator, or in any other capacity. Where the operator performs his or her or its functions through a managing agent of any type or character, the managing agent shall also be deemed an operator for the purpose of this chapter, and shall have jointly and severally the same duties and liabilities as the principal. Compliance with the provisions of this chapter by either the principal or the managing agent shall, however, be considered to be compliance by both.
“Person”
means any individual, firm, partnership, church, joint venture, association, social club, fraternal organization, joint stock company, corporation, estate, trust, business trust, receiver, trustee, syndicate, school or any other group or organization acting as a unit. “Rent”
means the consideration charged, whether or not received, for the occupancy of space in a hotel valued in money, whether to be received in money, goods, labor or otherwise, including all receipts, cash, credits and property and services of any kind or nature, without any deduction therefrom whatsoever.
“Tax administrator”
means the city manager or his or her designated agent.
“Time-share occupancy”
means occupancy related to the situation wherein a purchaser receives the right or entitlement in perpetuity, for life, or for a term of years or other extended term, to the recurrent, exclusive use or occupancy of a lot, parcel, unit, room(s), hotel or portion thereof, or segment of real property, annually or on some other seasonal or periodic basis, for a period of time that has been or will be allotted from the use or occupancy periods into which the time-share project which is involved has been divided. The right or entitlement to occupancy may attach in advance to a specific lot, parcel, unit, room(s), or portion of a hotel, or segment of real property, or may involve designation or selection of the same at a future time or times.
“Transient”
means any person who exercises occupancy or is entitled to occupancy by reason of concession, permit, right of access, license, time-share arrangement or ownership or agreement, or other agreement of whatever nature, for a period of thirty consecutive calendar days or less, counting portions of calendar days as full days. Any person continuously occupying the same space in a hotel, as defined above, shall be deemed to be a transient if his or her actual total period of uninterrupted occupancy does not exceed thirty days. Unless days of occupancy or entitlement to occupancy by one person are consecutive without any break, then prior or subsequent periods of such occupancy or entitlement to occupancy shall not be counted when determining whether a period exceeds the stated thirty calendar days.
SECTION 3. Amendment to Section 3.24.030.
Section 3.24.030 of the Jackson Municipal Code is hereby amended in its entirety to read as follows:
3.24.030 Tax imposed.
Effective January 1, 2003, for the privilege of occupancy in any hotel, each transient is subject to, and shall pay a tax in the amount of, ten percent of the rent charged by the operator. Said tax constitutes a debt owed by the transient to the city for which the operator is the collecting agent, which is extinguished only by payment to the operator or the city. The transient shall pay the tax to the operator of the transient lodging facility at the time the rent is paid. If for any reason the tax due is not paid to the operator of the lodging facility, it must be paid directly to the city. The rent deemed payable on the account of time-share or similar interval or fractional ownership occupancy by a transient shall be established by resolution of the city council in a manner consistent with the provisions of California Revenue and Taxation Code Section 7280(b) or any successor section thereto.
SECTION 4. Amendment to Section 3.24.040.
Section 3.24.040 of the Jackson Municipal Code is hereby amended in its entirety to read as follows:
3.24.040 Exemptions.
A. No tax shall be imposed upon any person as to whom, or any occupancy as to which, it is beyond the power of the city to impose the tax herein provided.
B. Charges incurred by a person in the performance of official duties as an employee of local, State, Federal and foreign governmental entities shall be exempt from the tax herein provided if an exemption certificate is submitted and payment is made either: (1) directly to the hotel for rentals by the governmental entity; or (2) by government-sponsored corporate charge card. As an alternative to (1) or (2), the exemption certificate may be submitted with official government travel papers.
C. No tax shall be imposed on the owner of a timeshare estate or the guest of such owner occupying a room or rooms in a timeshare project, to the extent such occupancy is excluded from taxation by California Revenue and Taxation Code Section 7280(b), subject to subdivision (d) of that section.
D. The tax will be imposed on persons occupying space in a hotel until the period of thirty consecutive calendar days has expired unless there is an agreement in writing between the operator and the occupant for a period longer than thirty consecutive calendar days of occupancy. Absent an agreement, anyone occupying space for more than thirty consecutive days will be exempt from the tax after the first thirty consecutive days, the first thirty days are subject to tax.
E. No exemption shall be granted except upon a claim therefore made at the time rent is collected and under penalty of perjury upon a form prescribed by the Tax Collector. All exemptions should be reported and remitted as outlined in Section 3.24.080. All claims for exemption forms and rental agreements shall be kept and preserved for three years as outlined in Section 3.24.140.
SECTION 5. Amendment to Section 3.24.200.
Section 3.24.200 of the Jackson Municipal Code is hereby amended in its entirety to read as follows:
3.24.200 Warrant for collection of tax.
At any time within three years after any operator is delinquent in the remittance or payment of any amount required in this chapter to be remitted or paid or within three years after the last recording of a certificate under Section 3.24.180, the tax administrator may issue a warrant for the enforcement of any liens and for the collection of any amount required to be paid to the city under this chapter. The warrant shall be directed to any sheriff, marshal, or constable and shall have the same effect as a writ of execution. The warrant shall be levied and sale made pursuant to it in the same manner with the same effect as a writ of execution. The tax administrator may pay or advance to the sheriff, marshal, or constable the same fees, commissions and expenses for his or her services as are provided by law for similar services pursuant to a writ of execution.
The tax administrator, and not the court, shall approve the fees for publication in a newspaper.
SECTION 6. Amendment to Section 3.24.220.
Section 3.24.220 of the Jackson Municipal Code is hereby amended in its entirety to read as follows:
3.24.220 Successor’s liability—Withholding by purchaser.
If any operator liable for any amount under this chapter sells out his or her business or quits the business, his or her successor or assigns shall withhold sufficient of the purchase price to cover such amount until the former owner produces a receipt from the tax administrator showing that it has been paid or a certificate stating that no amount is due.
SECTION 7. Amendment to Section 3.24.230.
Section 3.24.230 of the Jackson Municipal Code is hereby amended in its entirety to read as follows:
3.24.230 Liability of purchaser—Release.
If the purchaser of a hotel fails to withhold purchase price as required, he or she shall become personally liable for the payment of the amount required to be withheld by him or her to the extent of the purchase price, valued in money. Nothing in this section limits any liability imposed by California Revenue and Taxation Code Section 7283.5(e).
Within ninety days after receiving a request for a tax clearance certificate pursuant to California Revenue and Taxation Code Section 7283.5, the tax administrator shall either issue the tax clearance certificate or request the current owner of the property to make available the owner’s transient occupancy tax records for purposes of an audit. The tax administrator shall complete any such audit on or before ninety days after the date the current or former owner’s records are made available and shall issue a tax clearance certificate within thirty days after completing the audit. If, after completing the audit, the tax administrator determines that the current owner’s records are insufficient to determine whether transient occupancy taxes are due and owing, the tax administrator is not required to issue a tax clearance certificate and shall, within thirty days after making that determination, notify the purchaser, transferee, or other person or entity that made the request that a tax clearance certificate will not be issued due to the insufficiency of the prior owner’s records. Any tax clearance certificate issued under this section shall comply with California Revenue and Taxation Code Section 7283.5(d).
The time within which the obligation of the successor may be enforced shall start to run at the time the operator sells his or her business or at the time that the determination against the operator becomes final, whichever occurs later.
SECTION 8. Severability.
If any section, subsection, subdivision, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase added by this Ordinance, or any part thereof, is for any reason held to be unconstitutional or invalid or ineffective by any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity or effectiveness of the remaining portion of this Ordinance or any part thereof. The City Council hereby declares that it would have passed each section, subsection, subdivision, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase thereof irrespective of the fact that any one or more subsections, subdivisions, paragraphs, sentences, clauses or phrases are declared unconstitutional, invalid or ineffective.
SECTION 9. CEQA.
The City Council finds that this Ordinance is not subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”), pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) (the activity will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment) and 15060(c)(3) (the activity is not a project as defined in Section 15378) of the CEQA Guidelines, California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Chapter 3, because it has no potential for resulting in physical change to the environment, directly or indirectly.
SECTION 10. Publication.
The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this Ordinance and shall publish or post the Ordinance in accordance with California Government Code Section 36933.
SECTION 11. Effective Date.
This Ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days from and after the date of its final passage and adoption.
INTRODUCED on the 24th day of August 2026, and PASSED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Jackson at a regular meeting held on the 24th day of August, 2026, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
[Signatures on Next Page]
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Chad Simmons
Mayor
ATTEST:
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John Goergette
City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
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Joshua Nelson
City Attorney