CITY OF LOS BANOS
CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
September 2, 2026
ACTION MINUTES – These minutes are prepared to depict action taken for agenda items presented to the City Council. For a detailed account of this meeting, refer to the video recording available on YouTube, which serves as a permanent record.
CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Amabile called the City Council Meeting to order at the hour of 6:01 p.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Police Chief Reyna led the pledge of allegiance.
ROLL CALL – MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL PRESENT: Council Members Refugio LLamas – District 2, Marcus Chavez – District 3, Deborah Lewis – District 4, Mayor Michael Amabile, District 1 – vacant; ABSENT: None STAFF MEMBERS PRESENT: City Manager Than, City Attorney Lerner, City Clerk Mallonee, City Treasurer Lawrence, Community & Economic Development Director Souza Elms, Police Chief Reyna, Public Works Director Via, Fire Chief Dorenbush, Finance Director Moreno (participating via Zoom), Parks & Recreation Director Heim, Human Resources Director Carlos
PRESENTATIONS.
PROCLAMATION – RECOGNIZING JOE SOUSA FOR HIS PUBLIC SERVICE AND DEDICATION TO THE COMMUNITY OF LOS BANOS. Mayor Amabile presented the proclamation to Joe Sousa who was present to accept.
PUBLIC FORUM: THIS TIME IS RESERVED FOR MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WHO
WISH TO ADDRESS THE CITY COUNCIL ON ITEMS THAT ARE NOT ON THE
AGENDA AND THAT ARE WITHIN THE SUBJECT MATTER JURISDICTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL. SPEAKERS MUST DIRECT THEIR COMMENTS TO THE CITY COUNCIL AND LIMIT THEIR COMMENTS TO NO MORE THAN THREE (3) MINUTES.
IT IS REQUESTED THAT NO COMMENTS BE MADE DURING THIS PERIOD ON ITEMS ON THE AGENDA. THE PUBLIC WILL HAVE AN OPPORTUNITY TO
COMMENT ON ITEMS ON THE AGENDA ONCE THE ITEM HAS BEEN CALLED AND THE MAYOR OPENS THE ITEM TO THE PUBLIC. THE CITY COUNCIL IS
PROHIBITED BY LAW FROM TAKING ANY ACTION ON MATTERS DISCUSSED THAT ARE NOT ON THE AGENDA. NO ADVERSE CONCLUSIONS SHOULD BE
DRAWN IF THE CITY COUNCIL DOES NOT RESPOND TO PUBLIC COMMENT AT THIS TIME. SPEAKERS ARE NOT ALLOWED TO SURRENDER/CEDE THEIR PUBLIC COMMENT TIME. Mayor Amabile opened the public forum. JOHN SPEVAK stated that it was a pleasure to be present for the presentation of a proclamation honoring Joe Sousa. He recognized Mr. Sousa’s longtime contributions to the City, including his work on the canal trail and his service on the Parks & Recreation and Tree Commissions for approximately 25 years. Mr. Spevak described Mr. Sousa as one of the City’s most dedicated and hardworking employees and expressed appreciation for his service to the community. BLANCHE JORGE, a downtown resident, spoke about September 11 and the role of search-and-rescue, police, bomb-detection, therapy, and recovery dogs during the events of that day. She also recognized the City’s animal shelter and noted that a rescue dog was identified and trained through the local shelter. MARIANA NIEVES, owner of Hippie Soul and founder of the Sunday Artisan Market, spoke about her experience operating a downtown business and creating opportunities for other small businesses through the market. She noted that many vendors have turned their market participation into businesses and stated that she encourages vendors to obtain the required permits and business licenses. She said the market brings hundreds of families downtown each Sunday and contributes to downtown revitalization and support of other local businesses. CARLOS FLORES, District 1, spoke regarding Mitzi Perez’s resignation and raised questions concerning the circumstances surrounding the resignation and an election-related investigation. He expressed concerns regarding County election processes, employment opportunities in Merced County, and the City’s hiring of an additional attorney, including the cost to taxpayers. NAOMI GUZMAN, District 1, thanked Mariana Nieves for establishing the Artisan Market and expressed concern about the limited activities available for local youth. She asked about the status of the proposed aquatic facility and expressed concerns regarding violence and bullying, youth activities, community events, employment opportunities, ongoing development, and the lack of progress on projects that have been discussed for several years. She also expressed concern regarding the condition of City streets and potholes. City Clerk Mallonee read letters from JULIE CREIGHTON and ANGELINA MENDOZA into the record. Ms. Creighton’s letter addressed the District 1 vacancy and expressed concerns regarding the selection of the next representative. Ms. Mendoza’s letter requested additional information regarding the City’s plans to address homelessness, including the One Tree project, emergency shelter capacity, services, and options for individuals currently experiencing unsheltered homelessness. No one else came forward to speak and the public forum was closed.
CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA. Council Member LLamas requested a brief discussion regarding Item H – City Council Resolution No. 7156 – Approving the Purchase of One (1) BMW Police Motorcycle in the Amount of $44,301.91 from Long Beach BMW Motorcycles Through the State of California Contract No. 1-22- 23-30 Motorcycles. Mayor Amabile requested discussion regarding Item F – City Council Resolution No. 7154 – Rejecting the Bids for the Ag Sports Complex Pickleball Lights Project.
Mayor Amabile invited the public to come forward and speak; no one came forward to speak.
Motion by LLamas, seconded by Chavez to approve the consent agenda items as follows, with the removal of City Council Resolution Nos. 7154 and 7156 for separate discussion and approval: Check Register for #259737 – #260006 in the Amount of $3,028,114.06; City Council Meeting Minutes for August 19, 2026; City Council Resolution No. 7151 – Accepting the Downtown Gateway Sign Project as Complete and Authorizing the Filing of the Notice of Completion with the Merced County Recorder (P&F Metals); City Council Resolution No. 7152 – Authorizing Award of Construction Contract to Hensley’s Paving and General Engineering, Inc. in the Amount of $419,580.03 with a 15% Contingency in the Amount of $62,937.00 for the Downtown Alley Overlay Improvements Project; City Council Resolution No. 7153 – Authorizing Award of Construction Contract to Katch Environmental, Inc. in the Amount of $1,574,016.00 with a 15% Contingency in the Amount of $236,102.00 for Mercey Springs Waterline Improvements Project, Authorizing the City Manager to Execute the Agreement, and Amending the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Budget; City Council Resolution No. 7154 – Rejecting the Bids for the Ag Sports Complex Pickleball Lights Project; City Council Resolution No. 7155 – Approving the Purchase Agreement for Three (3) Fire Command Vehicles in the Total Amount of $191,828.03 from Winner Chevrolet/Elk Grove Auto Group Through the State of California Contract No. 1-22-23-23D, and Authorizing the City Manager to Execute the Agreement; City Council Resolution No. 7156 – Approving the Purchase of One (1) BMW Police Motorcycle in the Amount of $44,301.91 from Long Beach BMW Motorcycles Through the State of California Contract No. 1-22-23-30 Motorcycles; Ordinance No. 1217 – Renewing Title 4, Chapter 12 of the Los Banos Municipal Code Authorizing the Funding, Acquisition, and Use of Military Equipment Pursuant to California Government Code Section 7071(e).
The motion carried by the following vote: AYES: Chavez, Lewis, LLamas, Mayor Amabile; NOES: None; ABSENT: None.
Item F – City Council Resolution No. 7154 – Rejecting the Bids for the Ag Sports Complex Pickleball Lights Project. Public Works Director Via explained the reasons for rejecting the bids for the pickleball court lighting project. He stated that six bids were received, but the three lowest bidders had irregularities, including failure to sign required documents and acknowledge addenda. The next lowest responsive bid exceeded the amount budgeted for the project. Staff determined it was in the City’s best interest to reject all bids and rebid the project in hopes of receiving responsive bids within the City’s budget.
Mayor Amabile invited the public to come forward and speak; no one came forward to speak.
Motion by Lewis, seconded by Chavez to adopt City Council Resolution No. 7154 – Rejecting the Bids for the Ag Sports Complex Pickleball Lights Project. The motion carried by the following vote: AYES: Chavez, Lewis, LLamas, Mayor Amabile; NOES:
None; ABSENT: None.
Item H – City Council Resolution No. 7156 – Approving the Purchase of One (1) BMW Police Motorcycle in the Amount of $44,301.91 from Long Beach BMW Motorcycles Through the State of California Contract No. 1-22-23-30 Motorcycles. Council Member LLamas requested discussion of the item and asked for additional information regarding the proposed purchase of a BMW police motorcycle, including its use and benefits to public safety. Police Chief Reyna explained the reason for the purchase, noting the importance of the traffic division and the motorcycles’ maneuverability and effectiveness for traffic enforcement, including around schools. He stated that the new motorcycle would replace an older 2007 motorcycle, which could then be retained for training or as a backup. Council Member LLamas expressed his appreciation for the information and the Department’s efforts to improve traffic safety and protect the community.
Mayor Amabile invited the public to come forward and speak; no one came forward to speak.
Motion by LLamas, seconded by Chavez to adopt City Council Resolution No. 7156 – Approving the Purchase of One (1) BMW Police Motorcycle in the Amount of $44,301.91 from Long Beach BMW Motorcycles Through the State of California Contract No. 1-22- 23-30 Motorcycles. The motion carried by the following vote: AYES: Chavez, Lewis, LLamas, Mayor Amabile; NOES: None; ABSENT: None.
DISCUSSION AND DIRECTION OF CHROMIUM VI TREATMENT ENGINEERING REPORT. Public Works Director Via presented the staff report and introduced Kevin Berryhill, P.E., of Provost & Pritchard, who provided a PowerPoint presentation on the engineering report addressing chromium-6 in the City’s drinking water. Mr. Berryhill reviewed the chromium-6 regulations, the City’s compliance timeline, treatment alternatives that have been considered, recent pilot testing, and estimated costs. He explained that all 13 City wells exceed the State’s 10 parts per billion standard and that the City has received an extension to 2030 to address the issue. Mr. Berryhill discussed several treatment alternatives, including replacement wells, blending, surface water, ion exchange, reverse osmosis, and zerovalent iron. He explained that reductioncoagulation-filtration (RCF) was identified as the most viable option. The process converts soluble chromium-6 into a form that can be removed through filtration. Recent pilot testing successfully reduced chromium-6 levels below the State limit, although additional work is needed to address filter backwashing, waste handling, and water flushing during system startup. Based on the pilot testing, the estimated cost to treat an individual well ranges from approximately $2.7 million to $4.8 million, with an estimated total cost of approximately $42 million for all 13 wells. Annual operating costs are estimated at approximately $1.25 million. Mr. Berryhill recommended beginning with a full-scale treatment facility at Well 9, which would allow the City to address remaining issues, establish more accurate costs, and apply lessons learned to future facilities. City Manager Than discussed the City’s responsibility to provide clean drinking water, the complexity and cost of the new requirements, the need for additional funding and testing, and the fact that many other cities are facing similar chromium-6 issues. Council discussed the operation of the treatment system, the cost of the Well 9 facility, similar treatment systems in other cities, potential impacts of backwash water on the wastewater system, and the possibility of receiving additional extensions from the State Water Board.
Mayor Amabile asked whether the pumps would go offline during filter backwashing. Mr.
Berryhill explained that, depending on the number and configuration of filters, the system could continue producing water at a reduced rate while individual filters are being backwashed. Council Member Lewis asked about the estimated cost to treat all 13 wells and the cost of using Well 9 as the initial test site. City Manager Than stated that the estimated cost for Well 9 was approximately $4.5 million. Council Member Llamas asked whether similar treatment plants were currently in operation or planned. City Manager Than explained that other cities have different configurations, including hybrid systems, and that the treatment system will need to be configured and tested to meet the City’s specific needs. He also responded to questions regarding the impact of backwash water on the wastewater system and emphasized the importance of testing to determine the actual effects and treatment requirements. Council Member Chavez asked whether another extension of the compliance timeline could be possible given the significant cost and the need to further establish the treatment process. City Manager Than stated that the State Water Board has indicated that extensions may be possible, provided the City continues meeting the requirements of its approved compliance plan, and noted that the City is working closely with the Water Board. Mayor Amabile stated that the City wants to identify the best and most affordable solution for the City and its residents. City Manager Than stated that the full-scale pilot treatment facility at Well 9 was anticipated to begin in Spring 2027.
Mayor Amabile invited the public to come forward and speak; ANN McCAULEY spoke about her residential water conditioning system and reverse osmosis system and asked how such systems help address chromium-6 at the residential level. Mayor Amabile explained the function of reverse osmosis, and City Manager Than provided additional information regarding California’s drinking water standard compared with the standard used elsewhere in the nation. No other members of the public came forward to speak.
No one else came forward to speak
Consensus of the City Council to move forward with the recommendation to proceed with final design of the City’s first full scale pilot reduction-coagulation-filtration (RCF) treatment facility at Well 9, and pursue funding opportunities for implementation of the City’s chromium compliance program.
CONSIDERATION OF ADOPTION OF CITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION NO. 7157 –
CALLING AND GIVING NOTICE OF THE HOLDING OF A SPECIAL ELECTION ON TUESDAY, MARCH 2, 2027, TO FILL A VACANCY CREATED BY THE RESIGNATION
OF COUNCILMEMBER MITZY PEREZ, AS REQUIRED BY THE PROVISIONS OF THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA RELATING TO GENERAL LAW CITIES. City Attorney Lerner presented the staff report and explained that Resolution No. 7157 would call a special election for March 2, 2027, to fill the District 1 City Council vacancy created by the resignation of Council Member Mitzy Perez and would consolidate the election with the Merced County election. She explained that State law requires the City Council to act within 60 days of the vacancy by either appointing a replacement or calling a special election. Because two current Council Members were appointed rather than elected, the Council cannot make another appointment without creating a majority of appointed Council Members; therefore, the vacancy must be filled by special election. She further explained that the March 2, 2027 election date meets the required 114-day timeframe for calling the election. The candidate filing period is expected to be November 7 through December 2, 2026, and the individual elected would serve the remainder of the term through the November 7, 2028 general election. The estimated cost of the special election is approximately $65,590, plus or minus 10%.
Mayor Amabile invited the public to comment; no one came forward.
Council Member LLamas stated that the vacancy was unfortunate and was no one’s fault.
Mayor Amabile emphasized the importance of encouraging residents to vote, noting that voter turnout in the previous election for the seat was low.
Motion by Chavez, seconded by LLamas to adopt City Council Resolution No. 7157 – Calling and Giving Notice of the Holding of a Special Election on Tuesday, March 2, 2027, to Fill a Vacancy Created by the Resignation of Councilmember Mitzy Perez, as Required by the Provisions of the Laws of the State of California Relating to General Law Cities.
The motion carried by the following vote: AYES: Chavez, Lewis, LLamas, Mayor Amabile; NOES: None; ABSENT: None.
CONSIDERATION OF ADOPTION OF CITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION NO. 7158 –
APPROVING PURCHASE AGREEMENTS WITH BURTONS FIRE APPARATUS FOR THE PURCHASE OF TWO (2) ROSENBAUER TYPE I FIRE ENGINES IN THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF $1,839,615.39; AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE AGREEMENT; AND APPROVING BUDGET AMENDMENTS IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,246,615.39 IN MEASURE P FIRE FUND. Fire Chief Dorenbush presented the staff report, which included a PowerPoint presentation explaining that the Fire Department’s apparatus fleet has been aging, resulting in increased repair costs, reduced reliability, and greater downtime. The Department responds to approximately 4,000 calls annually from two stations, placing additional demands on the existing fleet. Chief Dorenbush stated that the City had an opportunity to purchase two immediately available Rosenbauer engines at a significantly reduced cost. The engines, which seat six firefighters and have 750-gallon tanks, could be delivered before November, avoiding the typical 18- to 24- month build time for new apparatus. He noted that the engines typically cost approximately $1.2 to $1.3 million each but were available for just under $1 million each.
The total project cost is approximately $1.84 million, funded through the existing budget allocation, trade-ins of two command vehicles and two engines, and approximately $1.2 million in Measure P funds. Chief Dorenbush stated that the purchase would improve reliability and firefighter safety, reduce maintenance costs, and support the City’s fleet replacement program. One of the new engines would be assigned to the new Fire Station #4, with the current frontline apparatus moved to reserve status.
Mayor Amabile invited the public to come forward to speak; no one came forward.
Council Member Lewis congratulated the Fire Chief and the City on the opportunity to purchase the fire engines at a significant discount, noting the importance of reliable equipment to community safety. Council Member Chavez confirmed that one of the new engines would be assigned to Fire Station #4 and asked why the front bumper was so large and extended. Fire Chief Dorenbush explained that each jurisdiction has different specifications for its apparatus. Council Member Llamas stated that the purchase positions the City to provide greater public safety response and positions the City for the future. City Manager Than thanked the Measure P Oversight Committee for promptly reviewing the request and recommending approval of the Measure P funding. Mayor Amabile asked how much time would be saved by purchasing the available engines. Chief Dorenbush stated that the City would save approximately 18 to 24 months compared to ordering new apparatus, in addition to receiving the engines at a better price.
Motion by Lewis seconded by LLamas to adopt City Council Resolution No. 7158 – Approving Purchase Agreements with Burtons Fire Apparatus for the Purchase of Two (2) Rosenbauer Type I Fire Engines in the Total Amount of $1,839,615.39; Authorizing the City Manager to Execute the Agreement; and Approving Budget Amendments in the Amount of $1,246,615.39 in Measure P Fire Fund. The motion carried by the following vote: AYES: Chavez, Lewis, LLamas, Mayor Amabile; NOES: None; ABSENT: None.
DESIGNATION OF VOTING DELEGATE AND ALTERNATE(S) FOR THE 2026
LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA CITIES (LCC) ANNUAL CONFERENCE & EXPO BEING HELD SEPTEMBER 23-25, 2026 IN ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA. City Manager Than presented the item regarding designation of a voting delegate and alternate for the 2026 League of California Cities Annual Conference and Expo, to be held September 23-25, 2026, in Anaheim. He explained that the conference provides an opportunity for the City to have a voice in the League’s legislative priorities and policy platform, which are used to advocate on behalf of cities in Sacramento. He noted the importance of having Central Valley cities represented, as League policies and legislative efforts can directly impact the City. He recommended that an elected official attend and represent the City.
Mayor Amabile invited the public to come forward and speak; no one came forward to speak.
Motion by Lewis, seconded by Amabile to designate Council Member LLamas as the voting delegate and Council Member Lewis as the alternate delegate. The motion carried by the following vote: AYES: Chavez, Lewis, LLamas, Mayor Amabile; NOES: None; ABSENT: None.
Motion by LLamas, seconded by LLamas to designate Council Member Lewis as the alternate voting delegate and Council Member Lewis as the alternate delegate. The motion carried by the following vote: AYES: Chavez, Lewis, LLamas, Mayor Amabile; NOES: None; ABSENT: None.
CITY DEPARTMENT REPORTS.
Community & Economic Development. Director Souza Elms reported that the City officially launched its new enterprise permitting and licensing system through Tyler Technologies as a soft launch while staff works through the transition. The new system allows customers to apply for permits and licenses and make payments online. She also reported on three items scheduled for the September 9th Planning Commission meeting, including a proposed telecommunications facility at 1301 W. Pacheco Boulevard, the renovation and reuse of the former police annex building at 535 J Street for the Development Services Center, and a design review study session for a proposed commercial building at 1309 West Pacheco Boulevard. Mayor Amabile asked whether existing businesses would continue to receive reminders when their business licenses are due for renewal. Ms. Souza Elms explained that business licenses now have rolling expiration dates and businesses will be notified when their renewal is due. Mailed invoices will continue to be sent, with email notifications also available for businesses with an email address on file. Renewals and payments can now be completed online. Council Member Lewis asked whether the online renewal process would include additional information or materials for businesses. Ms. Souza Elms stated that, for the initial launch, communications would focus on the renewal process and instructions for accessing the Civic Access portal.
Finance. Director Moreno reminded the public about the City’s “Shop Smart, Support Local” campaign and encouraged residents to shop locally and keep sales tax dollars within Los Banos, particularly during the upcoming holiday shopping season. She noted that keeping local spending in the community helps support additional City services. Ms.
Moreno also advised residents who may need assistance with higher utility bills that the City is available to arrange payment plans for water, sewer, storm drain, and garbage services. She encouraged residents to contact the City to make payment arrangements, particularly during the summer months when increased water usage can result in higher bills.
Parks & Recreation. Director Heim reported that tickets for the Salute to Seniors event are on sale through September 11th, and Youth Volleyball registration is also underway.
He noted that both programs tend to sell out. Mr. Heim also announced that a special Parks and Recreation meeting was being targeted for September 8 to discuss several larger department projects. He further reported that he had visited two classes at Los Banos High School to discuss the Pacheco Park grant the City is considering pursuing and thanked the teachers and students for their participation and feedback.
Human Resources. Director Carlos reported that there were no major updates to report.
She stated that the department will introduce new hires and recognize the Employee of the Month at the next City Council meeting.
Public Works. Director Via had no report. Council Member Chavez asked about sewer odors in the downtown area and Mr. Via stated that the City is working on reconnecting a portion of the sewer flow and is also investigating the use of an activated charcoal filter in the manhole as a temporary solution until the new connection can be completed.
Fire. Chief Dorenbush reported that two new firefighters started with the City during the week and are expected to be introduced at an upcoming City Council meeting. He thanked his team, including Dana Rawls, Captain Gallichio, and Emily Coleman, for their work on the recent fire engine project. Chief Dorenbush also expressed appreciation to the City Manager, department heads, Measure P Committee, and City Council for their support and approval of the project.
Police. Chief Reyna reported that the Police Department is in the final stages of hiring another lateral police officer and stated that the officer will be introduced at a future City Council meeting. He thanked the City Council for approving the BMW motorcycle, noting that it will be put to good use in the community. Chief Reina also expressed appreciation for the Council’s continued support and recognized department staff for their hard work and dedication.
CITY ATTORNEY REPORT. City Attorney Lerner reported business as usual with nothing to report.
CITY MANAGER REPORT. City Manager Than reported that he attended the Boys & Girls Club’s “Sip and Savor” event with Council Member Llamas and discussed opportunities to strengthen partnerships and continue investing in local youth programs.
Mr. Than also provided updates on upcoming youth activities, including Junior Warriors basketball beginning September 14th, 3-on-3 youth basketball tournament registration beginning October 17th, Aikido, and youth yoga classes. He encouraged community members to participate in upcoming events and volunteer opportunities, including the Fall Street Fair on September 19th, Blood Drive on October 20th, Trunk or Treat on October 25th, Halloween Fest on October 31st, Veterans Day Parade on November 7th, and Breakfast with Santa on December 12th.
CITY COUNCIL MEMBER REPORTS:
DISTRICT 1: Vacant
REFUGIO LLAMAS – DISTRICT 2: Thanked Mariana with the Artisans Market for his efforts in organizing the market and recognized Community & Economic Development Director Sousa-Elms for assisting with the permitting process and helping vendors understand City requirements. Mr. LLamas acknowledged the need for additional activities for local teens and encouraged youth and families to become involved in the recreation opportunities available through the City and Boys & Girls Club. He also emphasized the importance of community members providing input and participating in City programs. Mr. LLamas thanked staff for their reports, particularly regarding Chromium-6, and expressed appreciation for the City’s proactive efforts to address the issue and the significant costs associated with it.
MARCUS CHAVEZ – DISTRICT 3: Thanked the Measure P Committee for quickly reviewing and approving the funding for the purchase of the new fire engines. Council Member Chavez asked about traffic conditions around local schools and Police Chief Reyna stated that traffic is generally improving, except during the approximately 10- minute periods when traffic converges around schools. He noted that the Department is working to improve safety, address illegal parking, and coordinate with the school district, principals, and staff. Council Member Chavez reiterated the public’s concerns regarding road conditions and emphasized that residents want to know their concerns are being heard and that the City continues to work toward needed road repairs. Mr. Chavez also asked about where residents could find additional information regarding the One Tree Project and City Manager Than stated that updates are regularly posted on the City’s website and social media, including a recent video update. Mr. Than also reported that the first unit of the project at Gilbert Gonzalez is now on site.
DEBORAH LEWIS – DISTRICT 4: Congratulated the Fire Chief and Police Chief on the new equipment being provided to their departments, emphasizing that community safety is a priority as the City continues to grow. Ms. Lewis recognized outgoing State Senator Caballero for her assistance in securing state funding for the Fire Department, Chromium6 efforts, and other City projects. She expressed appreciation for the Senator’s support and advocacy on behalf of Los Banos. Regarding road construction, Ms. Lewis noted that the City has an existing plan for street repairs and resurfacing and expressed appreciation to staff for continuing to implement the plan. She acknowledged residents’ frustration with deteriorating roads but stated that improvements are coming and will take time. She also encouraged the City to make project information available on its website, in addition to social media, so residents who do not use social media can stay informed.
Ms. Lewis addressed the need for additional recreational opportunities for local youth and noted that the City is working within its budget and pursuing grants for projects. She expressed support for moving forward with projects such as an aquatic center and the planned improvements to Colorado Park. She emphasized that parents also have a responsibility to know where their children are and what they are doing, while the City will continue to provide recreational opportunities as resources allow. She concluded by expressing confidence in City staff and the progress being made on projects and improvements throughout the community.
MICHAEL S. AMABILE – MAYOR: Reported on recent meetings and community activities. He noted that the Merced County Association of Governments (MCAG) will hold a hazardous waste collection at the fairgrounds on September 19th from 8:00 a.m. to noon, where residents may dispose of items including oil, paint, and batteries. Mr.
Amabile also reported that MCAG discussed potential changes to the regional bus system. While no action was taken, alternatives are being considered to reduce underutilized routes, increase ridership, and locate bus stops in more convenient areas while maintaining access to public transportation and potentially reducing costs. He reminded the Council that Atwater will host the next city/county meeting in October. He also reported that LAFCO approved the annexation of the City’s stormwater basin, noting the work of staff in presenting the matter to the Board. He reported on a recent West Light Energy public meeting attended by himself and Council Member Chavez, where information was provided regarding energy rebates, energy-efficient appliances and equipment, and ways residents can better understand and reduce their energy costs. He noted that West Light Energy was formerly known as Peninsula Clean Energy and changed its name as its service area expanded beyond the Peninsula. Mr. Amabile also referenced the recent alleyway meeting organized by Public Works Director Via, noting that the meeting provided an opportunity for residents to provide input regarding planned alley paving and improvements. He emphasized the importance of transparency and communication with the community. He thanked members of the public for participating in the meeting and providing comments and expressed appreciation to those attending in person and online.
ADJOURNMENT. The meeting was adjourned at 7:46 p.m.
APPROVED:
__/s/ Michael S. Amabile________
Michael S. Amabile, Mayor
ATTEST:
__/s/ Lucille L. Mallonee___________
Lucille L. Mallonee, City Clerk