LODI CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING
CARNEGIE FORUM
305 WEST PINE STREET, LODI
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2025 ‑ 6:00 PM
C‑1 Call to Order / Roll Call
The City Council Closed Session meeting of September 3, 2025, was called to order by Mayor Bregman at 6:01 p.m.
Present: Council Member Craig-Hensley, Council Member Hothi, Council Member Nakanishi, Mayor Pro Tempore Yepez, and Mayor Bregman
Absent: None
Also Present: Interim City Manager Lindsay, City Attorney Lucchesi, and City Clerk Nashed
NOTE: Mayor Pro Tempore Yepez participated in the meeting via teleconference.
C‑2 Announcement of Closed Session
a) CONFERENCE ON LABOR NEGOTIATIONS – Regarding International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Lodi City Mid‑Management Association, AFSCME General Services and Maintenance & Operators, Police Mid‑Managers, Lodi Police Officers Association, Lodi Police Dispatchers Association, Lodi Professional Firefighters, Lodi Fire Mid‑Management, Confidential General Services, Confidential Mid‑Managers, Executive Managers, and Appointed Employees, Pursuant to Government Code § 54957.6 (HR)
b) PUBLIC EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE EVALUATION ‑ One Appointed Position: Acting City Manager, Pursuant to California Government Code § 54957.
c) CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL — EXISTING LITIGATION Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1). Name of Case: In Re National Prescription Opiate Litigation, Case No. 1:17‑md‑2804, and Proposed “Secondary Manufacturers” Settlement with Alvogen, Amneal, Apotex, Hikma, Indivior, Mylan, Sun, and Zydus, and the Proposed Purdue Pharma L.P. Settlement (CA)
C‑3 Adjourn to Closed Session
At 6:02 p.m., Mayor Bregman adjourned the meeting to a Closed Session to discuss the above matters. The Closed Session adjourned at 7:12 p.m.
C‑4 Return to Open Session / Disclosure of Action
At 7:12 p.m., Mayor Bregman reconvened the City Council meeting, and City Attorney Lucchesi disclosed that there was no reportable action.
A. Call to Order / Roll Call
The Regular City Council meeting of September 3, 2025, was called to order by Mayor Bregman at 7:12 p.m.
Present: Council Member Craig-Hensley, Council Member Hothi, Council Member Nakanishi, Mayor Pro Tempore Yepez, and Mayor Bregman
Absent: None
Also Present: Interim City Manager Lindsay, City Attorney Lucchesi, and City Clerk Nashed
NOTE: Mayor Pro Tempore Yepez participated in the meeting via teleconference.
NOTE: Mayor Pro Tempore Yepez left the meeting at 10:00 p.m.
B. Presentations
B.1 Presentation of Proclamation Recognizing Lodi‑Tokay Rotary’s Exceptional Service to the City of Lodi and its Residents (PRCS)
Mayor Bregman presented a proclamation to Lodi‑Tokay Rotary President Dan Smith and Treasurer Council Member Craig‑Hensley recognizing Lodi‑Tokay Rotary’s exceptional service to the City of Lodi and its residents.
B.2 Presentation of Proclamation Proclaiming the Week of September 17 ‑ 23, 2025 as Constitution Week in Lodi (CLK)
Attachments: Attachment 1 ‑ Proclamation
Mayor Bregman presented a proclamation to Renee Garcia and Dina Primack, of the Daughters of the American Revolution, proclaiming the Week of September 17 – 23, 2025, as Constitution Week in the City of Lodi.
C. Consent Calendar (Reading; Comments by the Public; Council Action)
Council Member Nakanishi made a motion, second by Council Member Hothi, to approve the following items hereinafter set forth, in accordance with the report and recommendation of the City Manager.
VOTE:
The above motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Council Member Craig‑Hensley, Council Member Hothi, Council Member Nakanishi, Mayor Pro Tempore Yepez, and Mayor Bregman Noes: None
Absent: None
ROLL CALL VOTE
The City Council held a ROLL CALL vote (all voiced their votes).
C.1 Adopt a Resolution Authorizing the City Manager to Establish an Eligibility List for Professional Recruitment Services, Place CPS HR Consulting, Mosaic Public Partners, and Tripepi Smith Talent Solutions on the Eligibility List, Authorize City Manager Execute On‑Call Agreements with All Three Firms in a Form Approved by the City Attorney, and Establish a $120,000 Limit on Professional Recruitment Services for Fiscal Year 2025‑26 (HR)
Attachments: Attachment 1 ‑ Resolution
Adopted Resolution No. 2025‑147 authorizing the City Manager to establish an eligibility list for professional recruitment services, place CPS HR Consulting, Mosaic Public Partners, and Tripepi Smith Talent Solutions on the eligibility list, authorizing the City Manager execute on‑call agreements with all three firms in a form approved by the City Attorney, and establishing a $120,000 limit on professional recruitment services for Fiscal Year 2025‑26.
C.2 Fiscal Year 2024/25 Electric Utility Department Financial Update Report (EU)
Attachments: Attachment 1 ‑ Financial Update Report
Received the Fiscal Year 2024/25 Electric Utility Department Financial Update Report.
C.3 Adopt a Resolution Authorizing Acting City Manager to Execute Three‑Year Confirmation No. 0366 Under Northern California Power Agency Support Services Program Agreement for After‑Hours Answering and Dispatch Services for Electric Utility and Public Works Departments ($308,630) (EU)
Attachments: Attachment 1 ‑ NCPA SSPA Confirmation NO. 0366 Attachment 2 ‑ Resolution
Adopted Resolution No. 2025‑148 authorizing the Acting City Manager to execute a three‑year Confirmation No. 0366 under Northern California Power Agency Support Services Program Agreement for after‑hours answering and dispatch services for the Electric Utility and Public Works Departments, in the amount of $308,630.
C.4 Adopt a Resolution Authorizing City Manager to Accept a Donation from the Lodi Fire Foundation, Waive the Bidding Process, and Award a Purchase Order to Howmedica Osteonics Corp for the Purchase of Cardiac Monitors and Appropriate Funds ($64,000) (FD)
Attachments: Attachment 1 ‑ Quote
Attachment 2 ‑ Resolution
Adopted Resolution No. 2025‑149 authorizing the City Manager to accept a donation from the Lodi Fire Foundation, waiving the bidding process, and awarding a purchase order to Howmedica Osteonics Corp for the purchase of cardiac monitors, and appropriating funds in the amount of $64,000.
C.5 Adopt a Resolution Authorizing City Manager to Waive Bid Process Using OMNIA Partners Contract #20469 for Purchase of eXmark 144” Mower From A‑1 Saw and Mowers Inc of Lodi, CA and Reappropriate FY 2024/2025 Equipment Replacement Funds ($73,989.96) (PRCS)
Attachments: Attachment 1 ‑ Cost Proposal
Attachment 2 ‑ Omina Partners Contract
Attachment 3 ‑ Resolution
Adopted Resolution No. 2025‑150 authorizing the City Manager to waive the bid process using OMNIA Partners Contract No. 20469 for the purchase of an eXmark 144‑inch mower from A‑1 Saw and Mowers, Inc., of Lodi, and re‑appropriating FY 2024/2025 equipment replacement funds, in the amount of $73,989.96.
C.6 Adopt a Resolution Authorizing City Manager to Execute a Three‑Year Professional Services Agreement with West Yost & Associates, Inc., of Davis, for Monitoring Well Network Modification Support at White Slough Water Pollution Control Facility ($94,700) (PW)
Attachments: Attachment 1 ‑ Professional Services Agreement Attachment 2 ‑ Resolution
Adopted Resolution No. 2025‑151 authorizing the City Manager to execute a three‑year Professional Services Agreement with West Yost & Associates, Inc., of Davis, for monitoring well network modification support at White Slough Water Pollution Control Facility, in the amount of $94,700.
C.7 Adopt a Resolution Approving No Parking Along Both Sides of Laurel Avenue from 390 Feet North of Turner Road (along 1026 Laurel Avenue Frontage) to the End of Public Street (Along 1040 Laurel Avenue Frontage) (PW)
Attachments: Attachment 1 ‑ Exhibit A ‑ Area Map
Attachment 2 ‑ Resolution
This item was pulled at the request of Council Member Craig‑Hensley.
Council Member Craig‑Hensley stated that she was pleased that the City was moving forward with the fire lane on Lauren Avenue, spoke regarding the continued need for enforcement of the no‑parking zones in the area, and recognized the residents of Laurel Avenue for their efforts.
Mayor Bregman noted that due to the size of the crowd, public comment would be limited to three minutes per speaker.
Donna Phillips, a resident of Laurel Avenue, spoke regarding the parking issues in her neighborhood.
This item was included in the vote on the Consent Calendar.
Adopted Resolution No. 2025‑152 approving no parking along both sides of Laurel Avenue from 390 feet north of Turner Road, along 1026 Laurel Avenue frontage, to the end of the public street, along 1040 Laurel Avenue frontage.
C.8 Adopt a Resolution Authorizing Acting City Manager to Execute an Agreement for Professional Services with Civil Hydro Tech, LLC, of Sunnyvale for Lodi Central Plume Source Area and City‑Wide PCE/TCE Plume Management Services ($569,255) and Appropriate Funds ($569,255) (PW)
Attachments: Attachment 1 ‑ Professional Services Agreement Attachment 2 ‑ CIP
Attachment 3 ‑ Resolution
Adopted Resolution No. 2025‑153 authorizing the Acting City Manager to execute a Professional Services Agreement with Civil Hydro Tech, LLC, of Sunnyvale, for Lodi Central Plume source area and City‑wide PCE/TCE plume management services, in the amount of $569,255, and appropriating funds in the amount of $569,255.
C.9 Appoint Bertha Alicia Castro to the Lodi Improvement Committee, Nick Dalebout and Brian Campbell to the Library Board of Trustees, Geneva Mello and Hayley Johns to the Lodi Arts Commission, Kari McNickle to the Planning Commission, Molly Wahl to the Greater Lodi Area Youth Commission (Adult Advisor), and Zakariya Abdulgader, Ansley Chen, Marinda Htoon, and Inderjitt Samra to the Greater Lodi Area Youth Commission (Student Commissioners); and Post for Expired Terms on the Planning Commission and Parks & Recreation Commission, and Vacancies on the Lodi Improvement Committee, Lodi Senior Citizens Commission, Lodi Arts Commission, and the Greater Lodi Area Youth Commission (CLK)
Directed the City Clerk to make the following appointments and to post for the following expired terms and vacancies:
APPOINTMENTS:
Lodi Improvement Committee
Bertha Alicia Castro ‑ Term to expire March 1, 2028
Library Board of Trustees
Nick Dalebout ‑ Term to expire June 30, 2028
Brian Campbell ‑ Term to expire June 30, 2028
Lodi Arts Commission
Geneva Mello ‑ Term to expire July 1, 2028
Hayley Johns ‑ Term to expire July 1, 2028
Planning Commission
Kari McNickle ‑ Term to expire July 1, 2027
Greater Lodi Area Youth Commission (Adult Advisor)
Molly Wahl ‑ Term to expire May 31, 2026
Greater Lodi Area Youth Commission (Student Commissioners) Zakariya Abdulgader ‑ Term to expire May 31, 2027
Ansley Chen ‑ Term to expire May 31, 2027
Marinda Htoon ‑ Term to expire May 31, 2027
Inderjitt Samra ‑ Term to expire May 31, 2027
POSTINGS:
Planning Commission
Two expiring terms ‑ Terms to expire July 1, 2029
Parks and Recreation Commission
Two expiring terms ‑ Terms to expire June 30, 2029
Lodi Improvement Committee
One vacancy ‑ Term to expire March 1, 2027
One vacancy ‑ Term to expire March 1, 2028
Senior Citizens Commission
One vacancy ‑ Term to expire January 1, 2029
Lodi Arts Commission
One vacancy ‑ Term to expire July 1, 2028
Greater Lodi Area Youth Commission
One vacancy ‑ Term to expire May 31, 2026
Following approval of the Consent Calendar, Deputy City Clerk Maria Ditmore administered the Oath of Office to Nick Dalebout and Brian Campbell, appointees to the Lodi Library Board of Trustees; Geneva Mello and Hayley Johns, appointees to the Lodi Arts Commission; Kari McNickle, appointee to the Planning Commission; Molly Wahl, appointee to the Greater Lodi Area Youth Commission (Adult Advisor); Zakariya Abdulgader, Anslee Chen, Marinda Htoon and Inderjit Samra, appointees to the Greater Lodi Area Youth Commission (Student Members); and Bertha Alicia Costa, appointee to the Lodi Improvement Committee.
C.10 Set a Public Hearing for October 1, 2025, to Receive Comments on and Consider Accepting City of Lodi's Report on Water Quality Relative to Public Health Goals (PW)
Set a public hearing for October 1, 2025, to receive comments on and consider accepting the City of Lodi's Report on Water Quality Relative to Public Health Goals.
D. Comments by the Public on Non‑Agenda Items
David Claxton, President of the Downtown Business Alliance (DBA), spoke regarding the DBA's plans for the Downtown during the holiday season.
In response to Mr. Claxton, Council Member Craig‑Hensley stated she would bring forward the resolution to increase parking times in Downtown during the holiday season.
E. Comments by the City Council Members on Non‑Agenda Items
Council Member Craig‑Hensley spoke regarding her attendance at the BEAM Circular conference, San Joaquin County Business Council meeting, interviews with executive search firms, the San Joaquin Regional Rail Commission meeting, and the San Joaquin Council of Governments meeting. She further spoke regarding the proposed demolition of the Sunset Theater.
F. Public Hearings ‑ None
G. Regular Calendar
G.1 Adopt a Resolution Authorizing the Acting City Manager to Enter into Amendment No. 3 to the Agreement for Engagement of Legal Services with Meyers Nave Related to Employment Matters and Personnel Investigations (Total Contract Amount Not to Exceed $600,000) (CA)
Attachments: Attachment 1 ‑ Meyers Nave Contract Amendment No. 3 Attachment 2 ‑ Resolution
Interim City Manager Lindsay introduced the item regarding Amendment No. 3 to the agreement for engagement of legal services with Meyers Nave related to employment matters and personnel investigations. Interim City Manager Lindsay stated that Council received details regarding the amendment in a Closed Session meeting last week.
In response to Council Member Nakanishi, Interim City Manager Lindsay provided information regarding the amount spent on the contract to date and the amount staff anticipates to spend before resolution of the issue.
Council Member Nakanishi spoke regarding the amount spent to date and the need for closure.
Further, he read a message received from John Smith, a citizen of Lodi, regarding the importance of having good legal advice before making a decision.
Council Member Craig‑Hensley spoke regarding spending beyond the previous amendment's "not to exceed" amount without Council approval, the responsibility to pay for work already completed, the current amendment to take the City through the conclusion of the investigation, and this being the final amendment that she will approve.
Dan Lane, a member of the public, spoke regarding the shadow over the City due to the conduct of employees, a resolution being needed for the public to regain confidence in the leadership, and the need for justice to be served.
Michael Fluetsch, a Lodi attorney, spoke regarding his concerns about the investigation and potential litigation, his opinion that Mr. Carney was attempting to set himself up as a whistleblower, the need for a full investigation, and the money invested now will protect the City in the long run.
Steve Beckham, San Joaquin Housing Authority Commissioner, speaking as a private citizen, spoke regarding the need to quickly resolve the issue in order to repair the City's image and encouraged Council to approve the funds to expedite a resolution.
JP Doucette, President of the Lodi Chamber of Commerce, reminded Council and the public about the items on tonight's agenda regarding p‑card policy and the forensic audit, which were recommended by staff under Mr. Carney.
Mike Carouba, a member of the public, spoke regarding his concern over the approval of money which has already been spent and the need for resolution.
Jim Hicks, a member of the public, spoke regarding the money already spent before approval and the need for resolution.
Mayor Bregman spoke regarding Council's inability to speak in open session about anything presented in Closed Session, outside counsel not being paid unless this item is approved, the need to finish the investigation, and the public's right for information.
Council Member Hothi spoke regarding his agreement with much of the sentiment in the room, his belief that he would have made the same comments if he did not have the information presented in Closed Session, the investigation being approximately 90% complete as of August 31, and the need for resolution.
Council Member Nakanishi spoke regarding Council's inability to share what is learned in Closed Session, the good advice received from outside counsel, his desire for closure, the lack of support from Council for approval of more funds after tonight, and his confidence that resolution is close.
Council Member Hothi made a motion, second by Council Member Nakanishi, to adopt Resolution No. 2025‑154 authorizing the Acting City Manager to enter into Amendment No. 3 to the agreement for engagement of legal services with Meyers Nave related to employment matters and personnel investigations, for a total contract amount not to exceed $600,000.
VOTE:
The above motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Council Member Craig‑Hensley, Council Member Hothi, Council Member Nakanishi, Mayor Pro Tempore Yepez, and Mayor Bregman Noes: None
Absent: None
ROLL CALL VOTE
The City Council held a ROLL CALL vote (all voiced their votes).
G.2 Adopt a Resolution Authorizing the Acting City Manager to Execute a Professional Services Agreement with Hoslett Forensics for Accounting Review Services in an Amount Not to Exceed $45,000 (CM)
Attachments: Attachment 1 ‑ PSA for Hoslett Forensics
Attachment 2 ‑ Resolution
Interim City Manager Lindsay provided a presentation regarding a Professional Services Agreement with Hoslett Forensics for accounting review services. Specific topics of discussion included background; forensic accountant hired by outside counsel; Kevin Harper's assessment; no finding of fraudulent activity; recommendation for further accounting review of utility deposit holding accounts, CalCard transactions, and Amazon business account transactions; accounting review as opposed to forensic audit; timeline; and recommendation.
In response to Council Member Craig‑Hensley, Mr. Hoslett provided information regarding two‑year sampling process and best practices regarding which positions possess CalCards.
In response to Council Member Nakanishi, Mr. Hoslett provided information regarding forensic audits and accounting consulting projects.
JP Doucette, President of the Lodi Chamber of Commerce, spoke regarding the Chamber's support of hiring Hoslett Forensics, previous Interim Assistant City Manager Bobby Magee's recommendation for investigation for poor internal controls, and equipping staff in Finance to implement recommendations from the investigation.
Council Member Craig‑Hensley made a motion, second by Council Member Hothi, to adopt Resolution No. 2025‑155 authorizing the Acting City Manager to execute a Professional Services Agreement with Hoslett Forensics for accounting review services, in an amount not to exceed $45,000
VOTE:
The above motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Council Member Craig‑Hensley, Council Member Hothi, Council Member Nakanishi, Mayor Pro Tempore Yepez, and Mayor Bregman Noes: None
Absent: None
ROLL CALL VOTE
The City Council held a ROLL CALL vote (all voiced their votes).
G.3 Receive a Presentation on Visit Lodi’s Sports Tourism Strategic Plan and Facility Recommendations (PRCS)
Visit Lodi President Wes Rhea provided a PowerPoint presentation on Visit Lodi’s Sports Tourism Strategic Plan and facility recommendations. Specific topics of discussion included background; initial themes; Legacy Field in Tracy; Island Field ‑ River Islands in Lathrop; typical tournament needs; strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) analysis; primary recommendations; secondary recommendations; map of potential properties; Lodi Lake; and "King for a Day" ‑ create sports advisory board, Sports Facility Master Plan, and third-party business development options.
In response to Council Member Craig‑Hensley, Mr. Rhea provided information regarding the connectivity between the Downtown Specific Plan and the Sports Tourisms Strategic Plan and the Sports Facility Master Plan.
Council Member Craig‑Hensley spoke regarding planning for indoor sports facilities, perhaps in partnership with the County, with the availability of acreage at White Slough Water Pollution Control Facility.
In response to Mayor Bregman, Mr. Rhea provided information regarding the Grape Bowl.
In response to Mayor Bregman, Police Chief Ricardo Garcia provided an update regarding proactive enforcement in all the parks, particularly the Grape Bowl area.
In response to Mayor Bregman, Mr. Rhea provided information regarding a public/private partnership.
John McBride, a member of the public, spoke regarding youth sports being a recession‑resistant investment and under‑utilized warehouses that could be adapted to basketball or volleyball tournaments.
No Council action was required on this item.
NOTE: Council Member Hothi stated that many members of the audience were waiting for Item G.8 and suggested moving the item up in the agenda.
Council concurred with Council Member Hothi's suggestion.
Council Member Hothi made a motion, second by Mayor Pro Tempore Yepez, to amend the agenda to hear Item G.8 at this point in the meeting.
VOTE:
The above motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Council Member Craig‑Hensley, Council Member Hothi, Council Member Nakanishi, Mayor Pro Tempore Yepez, and Mayor Bregman Noes: None
Absent: None
ROLL CALL VOTE
The City Council held a ROLL CALL vote (all voiced their votes).
G.8 Consider Adopting a Resolution Opposing California Prop 50, the Use of Legislative Congressional Redistricting Map Amendment (Mayor)
Attachments: Attachment 1 ‑ Resolution
Per the Council vote, Item G.8 was heard immediately following Item G.1.
Mayor Bregman provided a presentation regarding opposition to California Proposition 50, the Use of Legislative Congressional Redistricting Map Amendment. Specific topics of discussion included background, non‑partisan reason for adding the item to the agenda, the splitting of Lodi into three districts, effect on ability to receive Federal funding, issue of representation of Lodi, and request for a formal resolution against the redistricting.
Council Member Craig‑Hensley read a prepared statement in opposition to the redistricting, including Lodi District 2 being split into three Congressional districts, and her recommendation that the proposed resolution include language that the City Council supports California State law, which requires that redistricting avoid splitting neighborhoods or communities of interest wherever possible and that as redrawn by the State Legislature, Lodi's neighborhoods and communities are not kept intact, undermining equal protection and diluting accountability of elected officials to their constituents.
Jim Shoemaker, a Congressional candidate, spoke in favor of the proposed resolution.
David Diskin, a member of the public, spoke in opposition to the proposed resolution.
John McBride, a member of the public, spoke in favor of the proposed resolution.
Jim Hicks, a member of the public, spoke in favor of the proposed resolution.
Jose Chavez, a member of the public, spoke in favor of the proposed resolution.
David Cushman, a member of the public, spoke in favor of the proposed resolution.
Mary Wurl, a member of the public, spoke in opposition of the proposed resolution.
Maria Elena Serna, a member of the public, spoke in opposition of the proposed resolution.
Carol Jones, a member of the public, spoke in opposition of the proposed resolution.
Nelson Rabell, a member of the public, spoke in opposition of the proposed resolution.
Lisa McBride, a member of the public, spoke in opposition of the proposed resolution.
Michael Hess, a member of the public, spoke in opposition of the proposed resolution.
Dan Lane, a member of the public, spoke in support of the proposed resolution.
Carolyn Ross, a member of the public, spoke in opposition of the proposed resolution.
Lavinia Jackson, a member of the public, spoke in opposition of the proposed resolution.
Ellen Estrada, a member of the public, spoke in opposition of the proposed resolution.
Robin Knowltan, a member of the public, spoke in opposition of the proposed resolution.
John Stewart, a member of the public, spoke in opposition of the proposed resolution.
An unidentified member of the public spoke in opposition of the proposed resolution.
Mayor Pro Tempore Yepez stated the Council should not be involved in Federal issues.
Council Member Hothi spoke against becoming involved in partisan issues and stated the focus should be on what is best for Lodi.
Council Member Nakanishi spoke against bringing partisan issues to the City Council but stated he supports the resolution because Proposition 50 is not good for Lodi.
Mayor Bregman stated that he brought this item, despite it being a partisan item, to Council because Lodi does not have representation such as League of California Cities regarding Proposition 50, Lodi is in a special predicament because of the division into three districts, and Lodi will not receive support for Federal funding.
Council Member Craig‑Hensley stated that she wanted to bring attention to the fact that Lodi is split into three districts and that Lodi will not receive Federal support. She further stated that this is not a partisan issue, it is about equity and fairness for her electorate, and that the majority of voters supported a process where neighborhoods and communities of interest are not split. She spoke regarding the impact the proposition would have on her district and her ability to lobby Federal officials on what matters to the whole City. Council Member Craig-Hensley stated it is not equal protection to split a City of 67,000 people and a district of 7,100 voters into three districts.
Council Member Craig‑Hensley made a motion, second by Council Member Nakanishi, to adopt Resolution No. 2025‑159 opposing California Proposition 50, the Use of Legislative Congressional Redistricting Map Amendment, with the addition of the following language: Whereas the City Council supports the current California State law which requires redistricting avoid splitting neighborhoods or communities of interest whenever possible. As redrawn by the State legislature, Lodi’s neighborhoods and communities are not kept intact, undermining equal protection and diluting accountability of elected officials to their constituents.
VOTE:
The above motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Council Member Craig‑Hensley, Council Member Nakanishi, and Mayor Bregman Noes: Council Member Hothi and Mayor Pro Tempore Yepez
Absent: None
ROLL CALL VOTE
The City Council held a ROLL CALL vote (all voiced their votes).
NOTE: At 10:00 p.m., Mayor Bregman called for a recess, and the City Council meeting reconvened at 10:06 p.m.
NOTE: Mayor Pro Tempore Yepez left the meeting at 10:00 p.m.
G.4 Receive a Presentation and Update on the Downtown Specific Plan (DTSP) (CD)
Attachments: Attachment 1 ‑ Lodi Downtown Specific Plan Update
Deputy Community Development Director Cynthia Marsh provided a presentation and update on the Downtown Specific Plan. Specific topics of discussion included multi‑disciplinary team and area; community engagement; Downtown vision; key concepts; branding, wayfinding, and placemaking; alley improvements; Hale Park; pedestrian connectivity; street enhancement and placemaking; cyclist connectivity; vehicular circulation; Main Street enhancement; enhanced connectivity and placemaking; Union Pacific (UP) engagement and ownership; Main Street with UP easement; Main Street with UP acquisition; Main Street with existing condition; Main Street with UP ownership; and next steps.
In response to Mayor Bregman, Deputy Community Development Director Marsh provided information regarding UP property dimensions and requirements.
Community Development Director John Della Monica provided additional information regarding usage of the UP easement and steering committee involvement.
In response to Mayor Bregman, Public Works Direction Charlie Swimley provided information regarding the ownership of the Transit Station and the ability to spend Transportation funds.
Council Member Craig‑Hensley spoke regarding the benefits of involving the San Joaquin Regional Rail Commission in the process, prior UP fencing requirements, and local UP contact information.
In response to Council Member Craig‑Hensley, Community Development Director Della Monica provided information regarding a possible street closure in relation to the quiet zone.
Council Member Craig‑Hensley spoke regarding the needs for Sacramento Street, items for quick implementation, cultural layering, and cost estimates.
Community Development Director Della Monica spoke regarding the need for public/private development and railway barriers in relation to the quiet zone.
Deputy Community Development Director Marsh spoke regarding funding and grant opportunities.
In response to Council Member Hothi, Community Development Director Della Monica provided information regarding vacant storefronts, uniformity of color for the buildings, and rooftop usage.
In response to Council Member Craig‑Hensley, Community Development Director Della Monica provided information regarding green roofs.
JP Doucette, President of the Lodi Chamber of Commerce and Downtown Specific Plan Steering Committee Member, spoke regarding the need for more input and thorough review early in the process and the need for a meeting with the Steering Committee and staff to outline the process.
Mayor Bregman requested that staff arrange the meeting with the Steering Committee.
No Council action was required on this item.
NOTE: Council Member Hothi made a motion, second by Council Member Craig‑Hensley, to continue the meeting past 11:00 p.m.
VOTE:
The above motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Council Member Craig‑Hensley, Council Member Hothi, Council Member Nakanishi, and Mayor Bregman Noes: None
Absent: Mayor Pro Tempore Yepez
G.5 Adopt a Resolution Approving the Revised Cal‑Card Use Policy (IS‑BUD)
Attachments: Attachment 1 ‑ Cal‑Card Use Policy 2011
Attachment 2 ‑ Proposed Cal‑Card Use Policy 2025
Attachment 3 ‑ Resolution
Budget Manager Jennelle Baker provided a short summary of the revised Cal‑Card Use Policy.
Specific topics of discussion included clear definition of authorized and non‑authorized purchases; requirement of all purchases to be delivered to City facilities; clear definition of roles, responsibilities, and procedures for prompt reconciliation of statements; Council‑approved policy; and Council approval for future changes.
In response to Council Member Craig‑Hensley, Interim City Manager Lindsay and City Attorney Lucchesi provided information regarding the position of Purchasing Officer.
In response to Council Member Craig‑Hensley, Budget Manager Baker provided information regarding the deadlines for the processing of statements.
In response to Council Member Craig‑Hensley, Interim City Manager Lindsay provided information regarding approved purchases being in the budget.
Council Member Hothi made a motion, second by Council Member Craig‑Hensley, to adopt Resolution No. 2025‑156 approving the revised Cal‑Card Use Policy.
VOTE:
The above motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Council Member Craig‑Hensley, Council Member Hothi, Council Member Nakanishi, and Mayor Bregman Noes: None
Absent: Mayor Pro Tempore Yepez
G.6 Adopt a Resolution Repealing and Replacing Resolution 2024‑32, and Authorizing Procurement Cards to Specified Positions (IS‑BUD)
Attachments: Attachment 1 ‑ Approved Positions_Resolution 2024‑32 Attachment 2 ‑ Resolution
Due to the late hour, the oral presentation of the report was omitted.
In response to Council Member Nakanishi, Budget Manager Jennelle Baker confirmed that Cal‑Cards and Procurement Cards are the same thing and provided information regarding the number of cards currently issued.
In response to Mayor Bregman, Budget Manager Baker and Interim City Manager Lindsay provided information regarding the number of Cal‑Cards which will be authorized if this item is approved.
Council Member Craig‑Hensley spoke regarding the large number of cards still authorized within the Public Works Department and her anticipation of what best practices are included in the forensic audit recommendations.
In response to Council Member Hothi, Interim City Manager Lindsay provided information regarding the number of previously authorized positions and the recommended number of authorized positions.
Council Member Hothi and Council Member Craig‑Hensley spoke regarding the number of authorized positions still being too high.
Mayor Bregman stated that there has been a reduction in the authorized positions and that further reduction can always be approved.
Council Member Hothi spoke in favor on the item, with the intent to further reduce the number of authorized users if needed.
In response to Council Member Craig‑Hensley, Interim City Manager Lindsay provided information regarding the required training included in the new policy.
In response to Council Member Hothi, Interim City Manager Lindsay clarified that this is an annual resolution.
Council Member Hothi made a motion, second by Council Member Craig‑Hensley, to adopt Resolution No. 2025‑157 repealing and replacing Resolution No. 2024‑32, and authorizing procurement cards to specified positions.
VOTE:
The above motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Council Member Craig‑Hensley, Council Member Hothi, Council Member Nakanishi, and Mayor Bregman Noes: None
Absent: Mayor Pro Tempore Yepez
G.7 Adopt a Resolution Authorizing Acting City Manager to Execute an Amended and Restated Employment Agreement with Christina Jaromay, for a Salary Increase to $213,000, Retroactive to July 1, 2025 (CM)
Attachments: Attachment 1 ‑ Amended & Restated Employment Agreement_C. Jaromay Attachment 2 ‑ Resolution
Due to the late hour, the oral presentation of the report was omitted.
Mayor Bregman thanked Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Director Jaromay for her service to the City.
Council had no clarifying questions.
There was no public comment.
Council Member Nakanishi made a motion, second by Council Member Hothi, to adopt Resolution No. 2025‑158 authorizing the Acting City Manager to execute an amended and restated employment agreement with Christina Jaromay, for a salary increase to $213,000, retroactive to July 1, 2025.
VOTE:
The above motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Council Member Craig‑Hensley, Council Member Hothi, Council Member Nakanishi, and Mayor Bregman Noes: None
Absent: Mayor Pro Tempore Yepez
G.9 Provide Direction to City Clerk Regarding Mayor Bregman’s Request to Travel to Japan for the Japan‑United States Leadership Summit in October 2025 (CLK)
This item was pulled at the request of Mayor Bregman.
H. Ordinances
H.1 Waive the Second Reading and Adopt Ordinance No. 2033 Amending Lodi Municipal Code Section 2.44.040 “Appointing Authorities” Allowing the City Council to Temporarily Appoint Staff to Perform Required Duties During Appointee Vacancies and Acknowledging that City Manager and City Treasurer Are Not Conflicting Offices (CLK)
Attachments: Attachment 1 ‑ Redlined Ordinance
Attachment 2 ‑ Clean Ordinance
Council Member Craig‑Hensley made a motion, second by Council Member Hothi, (following reading of the title) to waive reading of the ordinance in full and adopt and order to print Ordinance No. 2033 amending Lodi Municipal Code Section 2.44.040 “Appointing Authorities” allowing the City Council to temporarily appoint staff to perform required duties during appointee vacancies and acknowledging that City Manager and City Treasurer are not conflicting offices, which was introduced at a regular meeting of the Lodi City Council held August 20, 2025.
VOTE:
The above motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Council Member Craig‑Hensley, Council Member Hothi, Council Member Nakanishi, and Mayor Bregman Noes: None
Absent: Mayor Pro Tempore Yepez
I. Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the City Council, the meeting was adjourned at 11:07 p.m.
ATTEST:
Olivia Nashed
City Clerk