LODI CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING
CARNEGIE FORUM
305 WEST PINE STREET, LODI
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2025 ‑ 5:30 P.M.
C‑1 Call to Order / Roll Call
The City Council Closed Session meeting of November 5, 2025, was called to order by Mayor Bregman at 5:43 p.m.
Present: Council Member Craig-Hensley, Mayor Pro Tempore Yepez, and Mayor Bregman
Absent: Council Member Hothi and Council Member Nakanishi
Also Present: Interim City Manager Lindsay, City Attorney Lucchesi, and City Clerk Nashed
NOTE: Council Member Hothi arrived at 6:05 p.m.
C‑2 Announcement of Closed Session
a) Public Employee Potential Discipline/Dismissal/Release Pursuant to Government Code § 54957(b) and Continue Process Associated with Lodi City Council Adopted Preliminary Resolution Pursuant to Lodi Municipal Code Section 2.12.050, Commencing the Process of Removing Scott R. Carney (City Manager) from Office; Continuing the Suspension of the City Manager from Duty: Continuing the Appointment of the Acting City Manager; and Providing an Effective Date and All Other Purposes. (CA)
b) CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL ‑ THREATENED LITIGATION Pursuant to Government Code § 54956.9(d)(2). One Case: Government Claim No. 25‑45 Submitted by Claimant Scott Carney (CA)
c) CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL—EXISTING LITIGATION Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1). Name of Case: California Sportfishing Protection Alliance v. Eastern San Joaquin Groundwater Authority, et al. Stanislaus County Superior Court Case No. CV‑20‑001720 (CA)
d) 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)
C‑3 Adjourn to Closed Session
At 5:45 p.m., Mayor Bregman adjourned the meeting to a Closed Session to discuss the above matters. The Closed Session adjourned at 7:05 p.m.
C‑4 Return to Open Session / Disclosure of Action
At 7:05 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 November 5, 2025, was called to order by Mayor Bregman at 7:07 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
B. Presentations ‑ None
C. Consent Calendar (Reading; Comments by the Public; Council Action)
Mayor Pro Tempore Yepez made a motion, second by Council Member Hothi, to add Items G.7 and G.8 to the Consent Calendar.
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
Council Member Hothi made a motion, second by Mayor Pro Tempore Yepez, to approve the following items hereinafter set forth, except those otherwise noted, 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
C.1 Adopt a Resolution Authorizing the Acting City Manager to Execute the Write‑Off of General Billing Bad Debts from Fiscal Years 2017 to 2021 and Approve the Total Write‑Off Amount of $245,550 (IS ‑ FIN)
Attachments: Attachment 1 ‑ Write‑Off Amounts
Attachment 2 ‑ Resolution
This item was pulled at the request of Council Member Craig‑Hensley.
In response to Council Member Craig‑Hensley, Interim City Manager Lindsay provided information regarding the timeline for bringing General Billing bad debt write‑off to Council.
This item was included in the vote on the Consent Calendar.
Adopted Resolution No. 2025‑183 authorizing the Acting City Manager to execute the write‑off of General Billing bad debts from Fiscal Years 2017 to 2021 and approving the total write‑off amount of $245,550.
C.2 Adopt a Resolution Approving the Addition of One Senior Building Inspector and Deleting One Building Inspector II Position in the Community Development Department (CD)
Attachments: Attachment 1 ‑ Resolution
Adopted Resolution No. 2025‑184 approving the addition of one Senior Building Inspector and deleting one Building Inspector II position in the Community Development Department.
C.3 Adopt a Resolution Consenting to the County of San Joaquin’s Establishment of the Lodi Winery Business Improvement District (LWBID), and Inclusion of the City of Lodi’s Jurisdictional Boundaries in the Established LWBID (ED)
Attachments: Attachment 1 ‑ County Board Intent to Establish ROI R‑25‑138 Attachment 2 ‑ Proposed Lodi WBID MDP
Attachment 3 ‑ County Board Inclusion ROC R‑25‑139
Attachment 4 ‑ Resolution
This item was pulled by staff to provide the opportunity for a presentation of information and to allow public comment.
Mayor Bregman made a motion, second by Council Member Craig‑Hensley, to hear Item C.3 immediately after the Consent Calendar.
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
Per the Council vote, Item C.3 was heard immediately after the Consent Calendar.
Stuart Spencer, Executive Director of the Lodi Winegrape Commission, and Gina Reed, Senior Project Manager at Civitas, provided a PowerPoint presentation regarding the Lodi Winery Business Improvement District (LWBID). Specific topics of discussion included definition of Winery Business Improvement District, characteristics, winery‑paid assessment, collection by a third‑party (HdL), management by a non‑profit organization, Winery Business Improvement Districts in California, reasons for a WBID in Lodi, winery community outreach, Lodi Winery Business Improvement, boundaries, assessment rate, budget, services, terms, governance, steps to formation, road map to formation, jurisdiction responsibilities, and next steps.
In response to Council Member Hothi, Ms. Reed and Mr. Spencer provided information regarding the petition process for the formation of the WBID.
In response to Council Member Nakanishi, Ms. Reed confirmed that consent from Lodi is required.
Robert Smerling, owner of Cabana Winery, spoke in favor of the WBID.
Stephen Carson, owner of Drava Wines, spoke in favor of the WBID.
Erin Taylor, owner of Riaza Wines and Side Hussle Brew Company, spoke in opposition of the WBID.
In response to Council Member Craig‑Hensley, Ms. Taylor stated that it is their understand that the assessment will include all sales on their premises, including income from beer sales under their Type 22 license.
In response to Mayor Bregman, Mr. Spencer provided information regarding the assessment on beer sales and assessments on event venues.
City Attorney Lucchesi provided clarification of allowable dialogue with Mr. Spencer and Ms. Reed, as they are not City staff.
Kathryn Corradi, a resident of Lodi, spoke in opposition of the WBID.
Jeremy Trettevik, owner of Jeremy Wines, spoke in favor of the WBID.
Dan Panella, owner of Oak Farm Wines, spoke in favor of the WBID.
Wes Rhea, President of Visit Lodi, spoke in favor of the WBID.
Kyle Lerner, President of Harney Lane Vineyards and Winery, spoke in favor of the WBID.
Jacob Woodworth, representing Michael David Winery, spoke in favor of the WBID.
In response to Council Member Craig‑Hensley, Mr. Spencer provided information regarding petition signers, wholesale wine assessment not being allowed by law, assessment on ABC Type O license holders only, State law requirement that sales tax will be applied to the assessment, WBID decision whether to contract with the Winegrape Commission for staffing, and Dancing Fox's concern regarding assessment including all restaurant sales.
Council Member Craig‑Hensley spoke regarding recommendations to the County: composition of the governing board, including equal representation of different sizes of wineries; inclusion of wineries within City limits; key performance indicators in the annual report; and representation of Visit Lodi, the Lodi Chamber of Commerce, and the Lodi Winegrape Commission.
In response to Council Member Nakanishi, Mr. Spencer provided information regarding the number of wineries voluntarily contributing to the WBID efforts.
In response to Council Member Nakanishi, County Supervisor Steven Ding spoke regarding San Joaquin County's support of the WBID.
In response to Council Member Craig‑Hensley, County Supervisor Ding provided information regarding the means of governance of the WBID.
Council Member Hothi stated that a similar process is being conducted for Downtown property owners and voiced his support for the WBID.
Mayor Pro Tempore Yepez voiced his support for the WBID.
Mayor Bregman spoke regarding his concerns about food and beer sales being included in the assessment, but expressed his support for the WBID.
Council Member Hothi made a motion to adopt Resolution No. 2025‑185 consenting to the County of San Joaquin’s establishment of the Lodi Winery Business Improvement District (LWBID), and inclusion of the City of Lodi’s jurisdictional boundaries in the established LWBID.
Council Member Craig‑Hensley asked that the resolution include an amendment to the third Whereas clause: "WHEREAS, as currently drafted, the proposed LWBID includes all wineries, existing and in the future, located within the boundaries of the Counties of Sacramento and San Joaquin County, and the Cities of Elk Grove, Galt, and Lodi;" and the addition of a final Whereas clause: Whereas the Lodi City Council recommends to the San Joaquin County Board of Supervisors addressing the means of governance as discussed by Council."
Council Member Hothi rescinded his motion.
Council Member Craig‑Hensley made a motion, second by Council Member Hothi, to adopt Resolution No. 2025‑185 consenting to the County of San Joaquin’s establishment of the Lodi Winery Business Improvement District (LWBID), and inclusion of the City of Lodi’s jurisdictional boundaries in the established LWBID, including the amendment to the third Whereas clause to remove the reference to the County of Sacramento and add a final clause of "Whereas the Lodi City Council recommends to the San Joaquin County Board of Supervisors addressing the means of governance as discussed and approved by the Lodi City Council."
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
C.4 Adopt a Resolution Authorizing City Manager to Execute a Professional Services Agreement with KBI Painting to Repaint the Pool Area at Hutchins Street Square (HSS) ($132,410) and Authorizing City Manager, or Designee to Execute Change Orders ($17,590) for a Total Not to Exceed Amount of $150,000 and Accepting a Donation of $140,000 from the Hutchins Street Square Foundation and Allocate Funds; and Reallocating $10,000 from Hutchins Street Square Pool HVAC Replacement Project Savings. ($150,000) (PRCS)
Attachments: Attachment 1 ‑ Agreement
Attachment 2 ‑ Resolution
Adopted Resolution No. 2025‑186 authorizing the City Manager to execute a Professional Services Agreement with KBI Painting to repaint the pool area at Hutchins Street Square, in the amount of $132,410; authorizing the City Manager or designee to execute change orders in an amount not to exceed $17,590, for a total amount not to exceed $150,000; accepting a donation of $140,000 from the Hutchins Street Square Foundation and allocating funds; and reallocating $10,000 from the Hutchins Street Square Pool HVAC Replacement Project savings in the amount of $150,000.
Following adoption of the Consent Calendar, Hutchins Street Square Foundation members Jeffrey Kirst, Sam Harper, and Daphne Felde presented a check from the Foundation in the amount of $140,000 for the repainting of the pool area at Hutchins Street Square.
C.5 Adopt a Resolution Authorizing Acting City Manager to Purchase One Ford F550 Dump Truck and One Chevrolet Silverado 2500 Utility Truck ($168,652) and Appropriate Funds ($10,131) (PW)
Attachments: Attachment 1 ‑ Exhibit A ‑ Quotes
Attachment 2 ‑ Resolution
Adopted Resolution No. 2025‑187 authorizing the Acting City Manager to purchase one Ford F550 dump truck and one Chevrolet Silverado 2500 utility truck, in the amount of $168,652, and appropriating funds in the amount of $10,131.
C.6 Accept Improvements Under Contract for Aeration Diffusers System Replacement at White Slough Water Pollution Control Facility Project, and Adopt a Resolution Approving Change Order No. 3 and Ratifying City Manager Approval of Increased Expenses (PW)
Attachments: Attachment 1 ‑ Exhibit A ‑ Photos
Attachment 2 ‑ Resolution
Accepted the improvements under the contract for the Aeration Diffusers System Replacement at White Slough Water Pollution Control Facility Project and adopted Resolution No. 2025‑188 approving Change Order No. 3 and ratifying the City Manager approval of increased expenses.
C.7 Accept Improvements Under Contract for Solids Handling Facility Improvements at White Slough Water Pollution Control Facility Project and Adopt a Resolution Approving Change Order No. 3 and Ratifying City Manager Approval of Increased Expenses (PW)
Attachments: Attachment 1 ‑ Exhibit A ‑ Photos
Attachment 2 ‑ Resolution
Accepted the improvements under the contract for the Solids Handling Facility Improvements at White Slough Water Pollution Control Facility Project and adopted Resolution No. 2025‑189 approving Change Order No. 3 and ratifying the City Manager approval of increased expenses.
C.8 Accept Improvements Under Contract for Hutchins Street Resurfacing Project (PW)
Attachments: Attachment 1 ‑ Exhibit A ‑ Before and After Photos
Accepted the improvements under the contract for the Hutchins Street Resurfacing Project.
C.9 Post for Two Expiring Terms on the Senior Citizens Commission, One Expiring Term on the Site Plan & Architectural Review Committee, and One Expiring Term on the San Joaquin County Mosquito & Vector Control District (CLK)
Directed the City Clerk to post for the following expiring terms.
POSTINGS:
Senior Citizens Commission
Two expiring terms ‑ Terms to expire December 31,2025
Site Plan & Architectural Review Committee
One expiring term ‑ Term to expire January 1, 2026
San Joaquin County Mosquito & Vector Control District
One expiring term ‑ Term to expire January 1, 2026
C.10 Set Public Hearing for November 19, 2025 to Consider Adopting a Resolution Setting the San Joaquin County Multi‑Species Habitat Conservation and Open Space Plan Development Fees For 2026 (CD)
Set a public hearing for November 19, 2025, to consider adopting a resolution setting the San Joaquin County Multi‑Species Habitat Conservation and Open Space Plan Development Fees for 2026.
D. Comments by the Public on Non‑Agenda Items
Paul Schultz, a member of the public, spoke regarding the need for a four‑way stop at Crescent Avenue and Oak Street.
Mayor Bregman requested contact information to meet with Mr. Schultz.
Council Member Hothi asked that the location be added to the Public Works list for a traffic study.
Council Member Craig‑Hensley concurred with Council Member Hothi.
In response to Mayor Bregman, Senior Traffic Engineer Dorothy Kam provided information regarding the process and requirements for a traffic study for a four‑way stop.
In response to Mayor Pro Tempore Yepez, Senior Traffic Engineer Kam stated that she would add the intersection of Almond Drive and Cherrywood Way to the list for a traffic study.
Kristen Collins, a member of the public, provided supplemental documents and spoke regarding a notice she had received concerning her responsibility for paying for the sidewalk repairs in front of her house on North California Street.
Mayor Bregman stated he had spoken to staff about the notice and apologized for the verbiage.
Council Member Craig‑Hensley stated that she and Mayor Pro Tempore Yepez had met with the City Manager and the City Attorney regarding a new approach to the sidewalk repairs.
In response to Mayor Pro Tempore Yepez, Interim City Manager Lindsay stated that an item will be included on the November 19 agenda for Council discussion and direction on sidewalk repairs.
Council Member Nakanishi stated that he shared the concerns of Ms. Collins and supports bringing the item to Council for discussion.
City Attorney Lucchesi clarified information that will be included on the upcoming agenda item for sidewalk repairs.
Donna Phillips, a resident of Laurel Avenue, spoke regarding the fire lane recently installed on Laurel Avenue and thanked staff for their assistance.
E. Comments by the City Council Members on Non‑Agenda Items
In response to Council Member Hothi and Council Member Craig‑Hensley, Interim City Manager Lindsay provided information regarding City grant writing activities.
Council Member Craig‑Hensley requested information regarding the results of their work.
F. Public Hearings ‑ None
G. Regular Calendar
G.1 Receive a Presentation Regarding the General Plan Update Request for Proposals (CD)
Attachments: Attachment 1 ‑ Request for Proposals: General Plan Attachment 2 ‑ Attachment A to RFP: 2025 PSA Master Agreement
Deputy Community Development Director Cynthia Marsh provided a PowerPoint presentation regarding the General Plan Update Request for Proposals. Specific topics of discussion included General Plan and precise plans ‑ RFP overview, planning process, steering committee members, lessons from regional growth planning, reasons for precise plans, annexation, environmental readiness, RFP big picture, overall geographic area, timeline, submittal deadline, and next steps.
In response to Mayor Pro Tempore Yepez, Community Development Director John Della Monica provided information regarding the Southside Sphere of Influence (SOI) and Eastside SOI and further provided information regarding the development and annexation process.
In response to Council Member Craig‑Hensley, Community Development Director Della Monica provided information regarding the Municipal Service Review (MSR) in relation to this process.
In response to Council Member Craig‑Hensley, Community Development Director Della Monica and Deputy Community Development Director Marsh provided information regarding the regional transportation center.
In response to Council Member Craig‑Hensley, Community Development Director Della Monica provided information regarding the budget for the General Plan Update and the timeline for the completion of the Downtown Specific Plan.
In response to Council Member Craig‑Hensley, Interim City Manager Lindsay provided information regarding the timeline for the completion of the Economic Development Plan.
Council Member Craig‑Hensley expressed concern for staff's capacity to complete the Downtown Specific Plan, the Economic Development Plan, the General Plan Update, and two precise plans.
Community Development Director Della Monica stated the Downtown Specific Plan should be completed and presented to Council by the time a consultant is selected for the General Plan Update and precise plans.
Mayor Pro Tempore Yepez spoke in favor of development on the Westside.
In response to Council Member Nakanishi, Deputy Community Development Director March provided information regarding expected responses to the RFP and the selection process.
Greg Costa, a member of the public, spoke in opposition to the General Plan Update.
In response to Mayor Bregman's request, Community Development Director Della Monica provided a response to Mr. Costa's comments.
In response to Mayor Bregman, Interim Public Works Director Sean Nathan provided information regarding the storm drainage issues mentioned by Mr. Costa.
Mayor Bregman requested that a meeting be scheduled by Interim City Manager Lindsay and Interim Public Works Director Nathan with Mr. Costa in January.
Mr. Costa spoke regarding the MSR.
City Attorney Lucchesi provided information regarding MSR updates.
JP Doucette, President of the Lodi Chamber of Commerce and Downtown Specific Plan steering committee member, spoke regarding Chamber members who would prefer to postpone the General Plan effort until the completion of the Downtown Specific Plan and Economic Development Plan.
Mike Carouba, a member of the public, spoke regarding the obligation to update an obsolete MSR; the need for industrial growth; and the need to replace the City Manager, Public Works Director, and Community Development Director before moving forward with the General Plan Update.
Council Member Craig‑Hensley spoke regarding the need to update the MSR, the cost for implementation of the Downtown Specific Plan and the Economic Development Plan, the need for City leadership in place, a timeline for installation of the 230 kV line, and questions regarding Woodbridge Irrigation District. She spoke in favor of delaying until February.
Council Member Hothi spoke in favor of delaying until at least next summer.
In response to Mayor Pro Tempore Yepez, Deputy Community Development Director Marsh and Community Development Director Della Monica provided information regarding the effects of delaying the General Plan update, noting that annexations will be delayed.
Mayor Pro Tempore Yepez spoke regarding the need to speak with the property owners.
Council Member Craig‑Hensley spoke regarding the need for an MSR cost estimate and her reluctance to move forward at this time.
Mayor Bregman concurred with the comments and spoke regarding specific plans inhibiting development and the need for an updated MSR and permanent leadership in place.
In response to Mayor Bregman, Interim City Manager Lindsay suggested that staff return in January with information regarding utility costs in relation to annexation.
Council Member Nakanishi spoke in favor of delaying.
Interim City Manager Lindsay summarized the Council direction as follow up on the presentation on the annexation areas; identifying the costs to develop the infrastructure to support these annexation areas; understanding the utility needs and the costs of the utility needs for these larger annexation areas; and component parts needed for development and the CFDs that were mentioned.
City Attorney Lucchesi clarified that this item was agendized as a presentation item, not an action item, but staff will take the direction to bring it back early next year for further information.
No Council action was required on this item.
G.2 Receive Report on 2014 Crosswalk Removal on Holly Drive at George Washington Elementary School (PW)
Attachments: Attachment 1 ‑ Exhibit A ‑ Photo of Crosswalk Prior to 2014 Attachment 2 ‑ Exhibit B ‑ Resolution 2013‑223
Attachment 3 ‑ Exhibit C ‑ Photo of Crosswalk After 2014
Interim Public Works Director Sean Nathan provided a PowerPoint presentation regarding the 2014 crosswalk removal on Holly Drive at George Washington Elementary School. Specific topics of discussion included aerial view of location, conditions prior to 2014, and conditions after 2014.
Council Member Hothi stated he requested that this item be added to the agenda and that Lodi Unified School Board Member Jeff Stroh was in attendance.
Interim Public Works Director Nathan stated that he and Senior Traffic Engineer Dorothy Kam had performed a field check to observe traffic in the area, that the gate to the school on Holly Drive is not open in the morning, and that the gate is open in the afternoon but only three students with their parents crossed on Holly Drive.
School Board Member Stroh spoke regarding the school's request to have the crosswalk reinstalled, the traffic concerns at the front of the school, request for traffic line repainting at the front of the school, and safety concerns.
Council Member Craig‑Hensley spoke regarding concerns of speeding on Holly Drive.
In response to discussion between Council Member Craig‑Hensley and School Board Member Stroh, Interim Public Works Director Nathan stated that 17 students had used the gate on Holly Drive to exit the school on the day of the field check, with three students crossing Holly Drive with their parents. He further noted that crossing Holly Drive is not required for cars parked on the south side of the street and that at even the busiest time, there was parking available.
In response to Council Member Hothi, Senior Traffic Engineer Kam stated that they had met with the school principal and she was receptive of the information regarding the reasons for the crosswalk removal.
Interim Public Works Director Nathan stated staff will set up a meeting with the principal.
No Council action was required on this item.
G.3 Consider Adopting a Resolution Repealing Traffic Resolution No. 25‑168, and Reenacting the Complete, Current Version of the Traffic Resolution Hereby Approving Residential Permit Parking for the Lodi Lake Area with 24/7 parking restriction and Modifying the No Parking between 9pm to 6am on Laurel Avenue (PW)
Attachments: Attachment 1 ‑ Exhibit A ‑ Survey Boundary & Results Attachment 2 ‑ Exhibit B ‑ Option 1 & 2
Attachment 3 ‑ Exhibit C ‑ Option 3
Attachment 4 ‑ Traffic Resolution
Interim Public Works Director Sean Nathan provided a PowerPoint presentation regarding residential permit parking for the Lodi Lake area with 24/7 parking restriction and modification of the No Parking between 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. on Laurel Avenue. Specific topics of discussion included overview; permit parking process; concern and permit parking detail; existing No Parking (fire lane); permit parking survey boundary; permit parking survey result; Parking Restriction Option 1 ‑ Laurel Avenue north of Turner Road (east side only); Parking Restriction Option 2 ‑ Laurel Avenue north of Turner Road (both sides); Parking Restriction Option 3 – Laurel Avenue north of Turner Road (east side), Laurel Avenue from Lake Home Drive to Turner Road (both sides), Parkview Avenue from Lake Home Drive to Turner Road (both sides), and Loma Drive from the railroad track to Turner Road; and alternatives ‑ pros and cons.
In response to Mayor Bregman, Interim Public Works Director Nathan provided information regarding the streets included and staff's recommendation.
In response to Council Member Craig‑Hensley, Interim Public Works Director Nathan provided information regarding the number of impacted parking spaces on the east side of Laurel Avenue.
Council Member Craig‑Hensley spoke regarding not overreaching on the Laurel Avenue request, history of parking in the neighborhood, the need to address nuisance parking, the lack of complaints from the other property owners, the need for parking for events, and her support for Option 1.
Mayor Bregman spoke regarding only a 50/50 approval rate for portions of Laurel Avenue and his concern for expanding beyond Laurel Avenue.
Interim Public Works Director Nathan provided information regarding standard practice for No Parking surveys, due to the impact of cars then parking on the adjacent streets.
Carla Cope, a resident of Laurel Avenue, spoke regarding signage on Laurel Avenue; the need for "dead end," "not a through street," or "no park entrance" signs on Turner Road and Laurel Avenue; and the inability of cars to turn around due to the cars parked on both sides of Laurel Avenue. She voiced her support for Option 2.
Mary Tripp, a resident on the corner of Laurel Avenue and Lake Home Drive, spoke regarding the impact of the overflow parking, her concern over the loss of guest parking, and her support of Option 3 if guest parking was allowed.
Donna Phillips, a resident of Laurel Avenue, spoke regarding the ongoing problem of parking since the 1970s, trucks pulling trailers which cannot turn around on Laurel Avenue, damage caused to property by drivers backing into their driveways, the total number of lost parking spots being approximately 15, and her support for Option 2.
Council Member Craig‑Hensley spoke regarding this being a public street, guest parking, her support of Option 1, and "no outlet" signage.
Interim Public Works Director Nathan provided information and photographs of current signage.
Discussion ensued with Mrs. Cope, Council Member Hothi, and Council Member Craig‑Hensley regarding the current signage.
Council Member Craig‑Hensley voiced her support for Option 1, stating the Council could address future parking issues as they arise.
Mrs. Cope spoke regarding illegal parking during the night.
Council Member Nakanishi spoke regarding the need for clear signage and voiced his support for Option 1.
Mayor Pro Tempore Yepez voiced his preference for Option 2 but stated he would support Option 1.
Council Member Craig‑Hensley stated that Option 2 would turn a public road into a private road for the residents.
Council Member Hothi spoke regarding the loss of parking spaces during the recent Lodi Lake project and the need for parking during events.
Council Member Craig‑Hensley reiterated her support of Option 1 with increased enforcement.
In response to Council Member Nakanishi, Interim Public Works Director Nathan stated staff will review signage on Turner Road and Laurel Avenue.
Council Member Craig‑Hensley made a motion, second by Council Member Nakanishi, to adopt Resolution No. 2025‑190 repealing Traffic Resolution No. 25‑168 and reenacting the complete, current version of the Traffic Resolution hereby approving residential permit parking on Laurel Avenue north of Turner Road (east side only) and retaining the No Parking between 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. on Laurel Avenue (west side).
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
Mayor Bregman made a motion, second by Council Member Hothi, to continue Items G.4, G.9, and G.10 to the November 19, 2025, agenda.
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
G.4 Discuss and Provide Direction to Staff Regarding Designated “No Parking” Times on Tokay Street to Address Traffic Congestion During Pick‑Up and Drop‑Off Times at Vinewood School (PW/PD)
Per the Council vote, this item was continued to the November 19, 2025, agenda.
G.5 Adopt Final Resolution Removing Scott R. Carney From the Office of City Manager Pursuant to Lodi Municipal Code Section 2.12.050 and Providing For An Effective Date (CA)
Attachments: Attachment 1 ‑ Preliminary Resolution
Attachment 2 ‑ Final Resolution
City Attorney Lucchesi provided a presentation regarding the removal of Scott R. Carney from the Office of City Manager pursuant to Lodi Municipal Code Section 2.12.050. Specific topics of discussion included preliminary resolution to remove Mr. Carney, his opportunity to request a public hearing, lack of a request for a public hearing, expiration of 30‑day notice period, adoption of the final resolution, setting an effective date currently drafted as November 6, and implementation of the appointment of an Interim City Manager for the period during the recruitment process for a new City Manager.
JP Doucette, President of the Lodi Chamber of Commerce, spoke regarding the recruitment of Mr. Carney, the upcoming recruitment process, and the need for community input before issuing a job description.
Council Member Hothi made a motion, second by Mayor Pro Tempore Yepez, to adopt the final Resolution No. 2025‑191 removing Scott R. Carney from the Office of City Manager pursuant to Lodi Municipal Code Section 2.12.050 and providing for an Effective Date.
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
G.6 Adopt a Resolution Appointing James Lindsay, a Retired PERS Annuitant, as Interim City Manager, and Approving Amendment to Employment Agreement at the Same Rate of Pay of $140 per hour and Not to Exceed 960 hours in a Fiscal Year (CA)
Attachments: Attachment 1 ‑ Amendment to Employment Contract Attachment 2 ‑ Resolution Approving Lindsay Interim Appointment Amendment
City Attorney Lucchesi provided a presentation regarding the appointment of James Lindsay, a retired PERS annuitant, as Interim City Manager. Specific topics of discussion included retired annuitant rules and agreement terms.
Council Member Nakanishi spoke in favor of appointing Mr. Lindsay.
Council Member Craig‑Hensley made a motion, second by Mayor Pro Tempore Yepez, to adopt Resolution No. 2025‑192 appointing James Lindsay, a retired PERS annuitant, as Interim City Manager, and approving an amendment to the Employment Agreement at the same rate of pay of $140 per hour and not to exceed 960 hours in a fiscal year.
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
G.7 Consider Adopting a Resolution Approving the Allocation of Public Benefit Funds of $12,500 from District 2 and $6,000 from District 4 Non‑Profit Funds to Community Partnership for Families (Total $18,500) (CLK)
Attachments: Attachment 1 ‑ Reso 2025‑120 and Adopted Nonprofit Fund Policy Attachment 2 ‑ Proposal Letter
Attachment 3 ‑ Resolution
Per the Council vote, this item was moved to the Consent Calendar and approved.
Adopted Resolution No. 2025-193 approving the allocation of Public Benefit Funds in the amount of $12,500 from District 2 and $6,000 from District 4 Non‑Profit Funds to Community Partnership for Families, in the total amount of $18,500.
G.8 Consider Adopting a Resolution Approving the Allocation of Public Benefit Funds of $2,000 from District 5 Non‑Profit Funds to Osteosarcoma Institute, Inc. (Total $2,000) (CLK)
Attachments: Attachment 1 ‑ Reso 2025‑120 and Adopted Nonprofit Fund Policy Attachment 2 ‑ Resolution
Per the Council vote, this item was moved to the Consent Calendar and approved.
Adopted Resolution No. 2025-194 approving the allocation of Public Benefit Funds in the amount of $2,000 from District 5 Non‑Profit Funds to Osteosarcoma Institute, Inc., in the total amount $2,000.
G.9 Provide Direction to Staff Regarding the Establishment of Volunteer/Non‑Paid Position of “Wine Ambassador” (CLK)
Per the Council vote, this item was continued to the November 19, 2025, agenda.
G.10 Adopt a Resolution Repealing and Replacing Resolution No. 80‑101 and Directing the City Clerk to Attend Closed Sessions of the City Council, to Keep and Enter in a Minute Book a Record of Topics Discussed and Decisions Made by the City Council (CLK)
Attachments: Attachment 1 ‑ Resolution No. 80‑101
Attachment 2 ‑ Resolution (Redlined)
Attachment 3 ‑ Resolution (Clean)
Per the Council vote, this item was continued to the November 19, 2025, agenda.
H. Ordinances
H.1 Waive the Second Reading and Adopt Ordinance No. 2034 amending Lodi Municipal Code, Title 15 (Building and Construction) Chapter 15.25, Title 17 (Development Code) Sections
17.18.040 (Residential zoning district general development standards), 17.20.030 (Commercial zoning district land uses and permit requirements), 17.22.030 (Mixed use zoning districts land uses and permit requirements), 17.24.030 (Industrial zoning district land uses and permit requirements), 17.32.040 (Number of parking spaces required), 17.36.130 (Accessory dwelling units), 17.36.220 (Tobacco retailer establishments), 17.36.230 (Alcoholic beverage sales),
17.36.240 (Problem uses), 17.40.020 (Site plan and architectural approval), 17.40.050 (Variances and administrative deviations), 17.78.020 (Definitions of specialized terms and phrases) (Applicant: City of Lodi; File Number: 2024‑07 Z; CEQA Status: Exempt per Section 15061(b)(3) ‑ General Rule Exemption and Section 15378 as the Ordinance is not a project) (CD/CLK)
Attachments: Attachment 1 ‑ Ordinance (Redlined)
Attachment 2 ‑ Ordinance (Clean)
Council Member Craig‑Hensley made a motion, second by Mayor Pro Tempore Yepez, (following reading of the title) to waive reading of the ordinance in full and adopt and order to print Ordinance No. 2034 amending Lodi Municipal Code Title 15 (Building and Construction) Chapter 15.25, Title 17 (Development Code) Sections 17.18.040 (Residential zoning district general development standards), 17.20.030 (Commercial zoning district land uses and permit requirements), 17.22.030 (Mixed use zoning districts land uses and permit requirements), 17.24.030 (Industrial zoning district land uses and permit requirements), 17.32.040 (Number of parking spaces required), 17.36.220 (Tobacco retailer establishments), 17.36.230 (Alcoholic beverage sales), 17.36.240 (Problem uses), 17.40.020 (Site plan and architectural approval), 17.40.050 (Variances and administrative deviations), 17.78.020 (Definitions of specialized terms and phrases) (Applicant: City of Lodi; File Number: 2024‑07 Z), which was introduced at a regular meeting of the Lodi City Council held October 15, 2025.
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
I. Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the City Council, the meeting was adjourned at 10:41 p.m.
ATTEST:
Olivia Nashed
City Clerk