City Council Chamber
Merced Civic Center
2nd Floor
678 W. 18th Street
Merced, CA 95340
CITY OF MERCED
Minutes
City Council/Public Finance and
Economic Development
Authority/Parking Authority
6:00 PMTuesday, September 2, 2025
A. CLOSED SESSION ROLL CALL
Mayor Matthew Serratto, Mayor Pro Tempore Sarah Boyle, Council Member Darin Dupont, Council Member Ronnie DeAnda, Council Member Michael Harris, Council Member Shane Smith, and Council Member Fue Xiong
Present: 7 -
Absent: 0
B. CLOSED SESSION
Mayor Pro Tempore BOYLE called the Closed Session to order at 5:06 PM.
Clerk's Note: Mayor SERRATTO arrived to Closed Session at 5:12. PM.
B.1. SUBJECT: CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR
Property: Tyler Drive, Merced, CA APN 259-130-016; Agency Negotiators: D. Scott McBride, City Manager, Frank Quintero, Deputy City Manager, Venus Rodriguez, Finance Officer and Craig J.
Cornwell, City Attorney; Negotiating Party: Tony Slaton Under Negotiation: Price and Terms of Payment Pursuant to California Government Code Section 54956.8
B.2. SUBJECT: CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATORS - Property: 755 W. 15th Street, Merced, CA APN 031-360-029; Agency Negotiator: D. Scott McBride, City Manager; Frank Quintero, Deputy City Manager; Venus Rodriguez, Finance Officer; Craig J. Cornwell, City Attorney; Negotiating Parties: California High Speed Rail Authority; Under Negotiation: Appraisal of Property
B.3. SUBJECT: CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATORS - Property: 615 W. 15th Street, Merced, CA APN 031-360-060; Agency Negotiator: D. Scott McBride, City Manager; Frank Quintero, Deputy City Manager; Venus Rodriguez, Finance Officer; Craig J. Cornwell, City Attorney; Negotiating Parties: California High Speed Rail Authority, Under Negotiation: Appraisal of Property Pursuant to
September 2, 2025City Council/Public Finance and
Economic Development
Authority/Parking Authority
Minutes
California Government Code Section 54956.8
Clerk's Note: Council adjourned from Closed Session at 5:57 PM.
C. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor SERRATTO called the Regular Meeting to order at 6:00 PM.
C.1. Invocation - Monika Grasley, Lifeline Community Development Corp The Invocation was delivered by Monika GRASLEY of Lifeline Community Development Corp.
C.2. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag
Council Member SMITH led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
D. ROLL CALL
Mayor Matthew Serratto, Mayor Pro Tempore Sarah Boyle, Council Member Darin Dupont, Council Member Ronnie DeAnda, Council Member Michael Harris, Council Member Shane Smith, and Council Member Fue Xiong
Present: 7 -
Absent: 0
D.1. In accordance with Government Code 54952.3, it is hereby announced that the City Council sits either simultaneously or serially as the Parking Authority, the Public Financing and Economic Development Authority, and the Successor Agency to the Redevelopment Agency. City Council members receive a monthly stipend of $500.00 by Charter for sitting as the City Council; and the Mayor receives an additional $100.00 each month as a part of the adopted budget and Resolution 2024-78.
The members of the Parking Authority, the Public Financing and Economic Development Authority, and the Successor Agency to the Redevelopment Agency receive no compensation.
E. REPORT OUT OF CLOSED SESSION
There was no report.
F. WRITTEN PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS
Clerk's Note: There was no written petitions or communications.
G. PUBLIC COMMENT
Cynthia KELLY, Merced SPCA, Merced - shared a statistical update on the services the Merced SPCA has provided to the community in the last few months.
Rene GUTIERREZ, Merced - spoke on economic development in the City, the High Speed Rail, UC Merced, and update on the Street Vendor Ordinance.
September 2, 2025City Council/Public Finance and
Economic Development
Authority/Parking Authority
Minutes
H. CONSENT CALENDAR
Agenda Items H.6. Consider the Adoption of a Resolution Approving Final Map #5429 for Yosemite Crossing Phase 3, Subdivision for 3 Lots and 1 Remainder Between G Street and Sandpiper Avenue, and the Approval of the Subdivision Agreement for Yosemite Crossing Phase 3. In Addition, Consider Approving a Public Facilities Impact Fee Credit/Reimbursement Agreement for Off-Site Improvements that go Beyond What is Required for Frontage Improvements, H.7. Approval of the 2026 Cafeteria Plan Renewal Regarding Employees’ and Retirees’ Health and Welfare Benefits Including Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, Life and Flexible Spending, H.9. Adoption of a Resolution Accepting $50,000 in Grant Funds from the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control for the Police Department to Conduct Enforcement Operations with the Goal of Reducing Underage Drinking and Other Alcohol Crimes Related to Underage Drinking, H.13. Adoption of a Resolution Authorizing Adoption of Caltrans’ Local Assistance Procedures Manual Chapter 10 and Approval of Professional Services Agreements with Dokken Engineering (Civil Design and Engineering), North Star Engineering (Civil Design and Engineering), R.E.Y Engineers Inc. (Civil Design and Engineering) to Provide Support Services for the City’s Engineering Department in a not Exceed Amount of $1,000,000 per Agreement, Kleinfelder (Geotechnical Engineering, Construction Observation, Materials Testing, and Traffic Engineering), Crawford & Associates (Geotechnical Engineering, Construction Observation, and Materials Testing), BSK Associates (Geotechnical Engineering, Construction Observation, and Materials Testing), Advanced Mobility Group (Traffic Engineering), Peters Engineering Group (Traffic Engineering) and TJKM Transportation Consultants (Traffic Engineering) to Provide Support Services for the City’s Engineering Department in a not Exceed Amount of $500,000 per Agreement Based on the Consultant Hourly Rates Listed within Exhibit B of Each Respective Agreement for the Period Ending September 7, 2027, H.15. Approval to Reject All Bids Received for the Re-Bid of Project No. CP220066 CMAQ (059) Traffic Signal Synchronization, and H.16. Ratification of a Statement of Service with Rolfe Construction, Inc. for $95,000 for Project CP260041- Water Main Replacement E Street and 11th Street; were pulled for separate consideration.
Approval of the Consent Agenda
A motion was made by Council Member Dupont, seconded by Council Member Harris, to approve the Consent Agenda. The motion carried by the following vote:
September 2, 2025City Council/Public Finance and
Economic Development
Authority/Parking Authority
Minutes
Aye: Mayor Serratto, Mayor Pro Tempore Boyle, Council Member Dupont, Council Member DeAnda, Council Member Harris, Council Member Smith, and Council Member Xiong
7 -
No: 0
Absent: 0
H.1. SUBJECT: Reading by Title of All Ordinances and Resolutions
REPORT IN BRIEF
Ordinances and Resolutions which appear on the public agenda shall be determined to have been read by title and a summary title may be read with further reading waived.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion waiving the reading of Ordinances and Resolutions, pursuant to Section 412 of the Merced City Charter.
This Consent Item was approved.
H.2. SUBJECT: Information Only Contracts for the Month of August 2025
REPORT IN BRIEF
Notification of awarded Non-Public Works contracts under $39,000 and of Public Works contracts under $87,278.
This Consent Item was approved.
H.3. SUBJECT: Information Only - Traffic Committee Minutes of May 20, 2025
RECOMMENDATION
For information only.
This Consent Item was approved.
H.4. SUBJECT: Approval to Purchase One (1) New Caterpillar Wheel Loader, Compact Construction Equipment, Model 906, and
Necessary Attachment Equipment from Holt of California in the Amount of $163,669.42 as a Shared Vehicle Addition for the Street Maintenance, Trees, and Sweeping Divisions
REPORT IN BRIEF
Considers approving the purchase of one Caterpillar Wheel Loader,
September 2, 2025City Council/Public Finance and
Economic Development
Authority/Parking Authority
Minutes
Model 906, in the amount of $163,669.42. Staff has identified the need to add a vehicle, which will assist in the standardization of equipment through the cost savings of a government procurement program (Sourcewell).
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion:
A. Waiving the City’s competitive bidding requirement as permitted by Merced Municipal Code section 3.04.210 and authorizing the purchase to be made with a cooperative purchase agreement through Sourcewell, a government procurement program; and,
B. Approving the purchase of one Caterpillar Wheel Loader Tractor, Model 906, in the amount of $163,669.42 from Holt of California, through Sourcewell Caterpillar, Inc. contract # 020223-CAT; and, C. Authorizing the City Manager to execute any necessary documents for the purchase specified above; and,
D. Authorizing the issuance of the Purchase Order and approval of change orders not to exceed 10% of the total purchase price.
This Consent Item was approved.
H.5. SUBJECT: Approval of the Lease Agreement Between the City of Merced and Westamerica Bank for 6,100 Square Feet Located at 1801 M Street Starting at $1.45 Per Square Foot and Including an Option for a Three (3) Year Extension
REPORT IN BRIEF
Considers a lease agreement between the City of Merced and Westamerica Bank, located at the Merced Center Parking Garage (1801 M Street) for three (3) years and one (1) option for a three (3) year extension.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion:
A. Approving the Lease Agreement between the City of Merced and Westamerica Bank; and,
B. Authorizing the City Manager to execute the necessary documents.
September 2, 2025City Council/Public Finance and
Economic Development
Authority/Parking Authority
Minutes
This Consent Item was approved.
H.8. SUBJECT: Approval to Waive the Competitive Bid Process and Enter into a One (1) Year Agreement with Forensics Nurse Specialist of Nor CA (FNSNC), LLC to Provide Specialized SART Exams from August 1, 2025 Through August 1, 2026
REPORT IN BRIEF
Considers waiving the competitive bid Process and entering into a one (1) year agreement with Forensics Nurse Specialist of Nor CA (FNSNC), LLC to provide specialized SART exams from August 1, 2025 through August 1, 2026.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion:
A. Waiving the competitive bidding requirements to provide improvement to victims’ access and to improve operation efficiency of the Police Department; and,
B. Approving a one-year agreement with Forensics Nurse Specialist of Nor CA (FNSNC), LLC to provide specialized SART exams; and, C. Authorizing the City Manager to execute the necessary documents.
This Consent Item was approved.
H.10. SUBJECT: Approval of a First Amendment to the Software Licensing Agreement with Sansio HealthEMS for the Integration of Cardiac Monitors, in an Amount not to Exceed $3,215 (10% Contingency Included) for a Total Contract Amount not to Exceed $125,357
REPORT IN BRIEF
Considers approving a First Amendment with Sansio Inc. for their HealthEMS Master Software Licensing Agreement in an additional amount not to exceed $3,215 (10% contingency included) for a total contract amount not to exceed $125,357.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion:
September 2, 2025City Council/Public Finance and
Economic Development
Authority/Parking Authority
Minutes
A. Approving a First Amendment to a Software Licensing Agreement with Sansio Inc. for purchase of Sansio’s HealthEMS Master Software Licensing Agreement, with four one-year renewals, for a total amount not to exceed $125,357 over the 5-year period; and,
B. Authorizing the City Manager to execute the necessary documents.
This Consent Item was approved.
H.11. SUBJECT: Approval of Three One-Year Renewal Extensions with TargetSolutions Learning, LLC dba Vector Solutions for a Cloud-Based Training and Operations Management Software System in the Amount of $50,907.00 Plus a Ten (10%)
Contingency for a Total Amount of 55,998.00
REPORT IN BRIEF
Considers approving to waive the competitive bidding requirement pursuant to Merced Municipal Code section 3.04.210 and approving three one-year renewal extensions with TargetSolutions Learning, LLC dba Vector Solutions for a cloud-based training and operations management software system in the amount of $50,907.00 plus a ten (10%) contingency for a total amount of $55,998.00.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion:
A. Approving to waive the competitive bidding requirements as stated in Section 3.04.210 of the Merced Municipal Code pursuant to annual service or supply agreement and purchases necessary for standardization on particular types of equipment; and,
B. Approving three one-year annual renewal subscriptions with TargetSolutions Learning, LLC dba Vector Solutions (Vector) for $50,907.00 plus a ten (10%) contingency for a total amount of $55,998.00; and,
C. Authorizing the City Manager to execute the necessary documents.
This Consent Item was approved.
H.12. SUBJECT: Adoption of Resolutions Approving Standard Assurances Agreement for all California Office of Emergency Services Federal Grant Programs for Fiscal Year 2024 and the Memorandum of Understanding with Merced County for State
September 2, 2025City Council/Public Finance and
Economic Development
Authority/Parking Authority
Minutes
Homeland Security Grant Programs - Funding for Equipment, Planning, Administration, Training and Exercises for Fiscal Year 2024
REPORT IN BRIEF
Considers adopting the Standard Assurances Agreement for all California Office of Emergency Services (CalOES) Federal Grant Programs for Fiscal Year 2024 and considers approving the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Merced County to accept any future awards of the California State Homeland Security Grant Program funds for equipment, planning, administration, training, and exercises being funded through the County to the City of Merced for Fiscal Year 2024.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion:
A. Adopting Resolution 2025-52, a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Merced, California, authorizing the City Manager to execute the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services FY2024 Grant Assurances Agreement; and,
B. Adopting Resolution 2025-53, a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Merced, California, authorizing the City Manager to execute the Office of Emergency Services State Homeland Security Grant Programs - Equipment, Planning, Administration, Training and Exercises agreement; and,
C. Authorizing the City Manager to execute all documents, including any future amendments.
This Consent Item was approved.
H.14. SUBJECT: Approval of a Project Specific Maintenance Agreement with the State of California for the Gateway Monuments Project, CP230058, to Maintain the Six Monuments Located at SR 59, SR 99, and SR 140
REPORT IN BRIEF
Considers approving the Project Specific Maintenance Agreement with the State of California for the Gateway Monuments Project, CP230058.
RECOMMENDATION
September 2, 2025City Council/Public Finance and
Economic Development
Authority/Parking Authority
Minutes
City Council - Adopt a motion:
A. Approving the Project Specific Maintenance Agreement with the State of California for maintenance of the six (6) monuments located on SR 59, SR 99, And SR 140 and within the State Right-of-Way; and, B. Authorizing the City Manager to execute the necessary documents.
This Consent Item was approved.
H.6. SUBJECT: Consider the Adoption of a Resolution Approving Final Map #5429 for Yosemite Crossing Phase 3, Subdivision for 3 Lots and 1 Remainder Between G Street and Sandpiper Avenue, and the Approval of the Subdivision Agreement for Yosemite Crossing Phase 3. In Addition, Consider Approving a Public Facilities Impact Fee Credit/Reimbursement Agreement for Off-Site Improvements that go Beyond What is Required for Frontage Improvements
REPORT IN BRIEF
Considers adopting the Final Map #5429 for 3 lots and 1 remainder for the Yosemite Crossing Shopping Center. The subject site is generally located between G Street and Sandpiper Avenue, approximately 900 feet north of East Yosemite Avenue (Assessor’s Parcel Number 231-040-045). In addition, consider approving the Subdivision Agreement for the Yosemite Crossing Phase 3 Subdivision and the Public Facilities Impact Fee Credit/Reimbursement Agreement.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion:
A. Approving Resolution 2025-56, a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Merced, California, approving the Final Subdivision Map for Yosemite Crossing, Phase 3 Subdivision (#5429); and,
B. Approving the Subdivision Agreement for Yosemite Crossing, Phase 3 Subdivision; and,
C. Approving the Public Facilities Impact Fee Credit/Reimbursement Agreement; and
D. Authorizing the City Manager to execute all necessary documents.
Mayor SERRATTO pulled this item at the request of Council Member HARRIS.
September 2, 2025City Council/Public Finance and
Economic Development
Authority/Parking Authority
Minutes
Clerk’s Note: Council Member HARRIS recused himself.
Clerk's Note: Mayor SERRATTO stated that Council will hear Agenda Items H.6. and H.16. together.
Clerk’s Note: There was no Council discussion.
Clerk's Note: Council made a motion for Agenda Items H.6. and H.16. together.
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tempore Boyle, seconded by Council Member Dupont, that this agenda item be approved. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: Mayor Serratto, Mayor Pro Tempore Boyle, Council Member Dupont, Council Member DeAnda, Council Member Smith, and Council Member Xiong 6 -
No: 0
Absent: 0
Recused: Council Member Harris1 -
H.16. SUBJECT: Ratification of a Statement of Service with Rolfe Construction, Inc. for $95,000 for Project CP260041- Water Main Replacement E Street and 11th Street
REPORT IN BRIEF
Considers ratifying an agreement with Rolfe Construction, Inc. for an emergency water main repair on E Street and 11th Street.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion:
A. Ratifying the Emergency Declaration due to the water main breaking and needing emergency repair; and,
B. Ratifying a Statement of Services Contract with Rolfe Construction, Inc. in the amount of $95,000 for an emergency water main repair; and, C. Approving a Contingency in the amount for $30,000 for unforeseen circumstances discovered during the water main repair; and, D. Authorizing the City Manager to sign necessary documents.
Mayor SERRATTO pulled this item at the request of Council Member HARRIS.
September 2, 2025City Council/Public Finance and
Economic Development
Authority/Parking Authority
Minutes
Clerk’s Note: Council Member HARRIS recused himself.
Clerk's Note: Mayor SERRATTO stated that Council will hear Agenda Items H.6. and H.16. together.
Clerk’s Note: There was no Council discussion.
Clerk's Note: Council made a motion for Agenda Items H.6. and H.16. together.
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tempore Boyle, seconded by Council Member Dupont, that this agenda item be approved. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: Mayor Serratto, Mayor Pro Tempore Boyle, Council Member Dupont, Council Member DeAnda, Council Member Smith, and Council Member Xiong 6 -
No: 0
Absent: 0
Recused: Council Member Harris1 -
H.7. SUBJECT: Approval of the 2026 Cafeteria Plan Renewal Regarding Employees’ and Retirees’ Health and Welfare Benefits Including Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, Life and Flexible Spending
REPORT IN BRIEF
Considers approving the renewal of the 2026 Cafeteria Plan regarding employees’ and retirees’ health and welfare benefits.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion:
A. Approving the employees’ health and welfare benefits cafeteria plan renewal for calendar year 2026; and,
B. Authorizing the City Manager to execute the necessary documents.
Mayor SERRATTO pulled this item at the request of resident Uriel PULIDO.
Uriel PULIDO, Merced - spoke in opposition of the increase in medical rates for City rates and shared a personal story of being a City employee.
Council, City Manager Scott MCBRIDE, and Risk Analyst Maggie LEMOS discussed the increase of medical rates, communication from the
September 2, 2025City Council/Public Finance and
Economic Development
Authority/Parking Authority
Minutes
bargaining units, the deadline for approving this item, and moving the item to obtain more information.
A motion was made by Council Member Smith, seconded by Council Member Dupont, that this agenda item be tabled to the next scheduled Council meeting. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: Mayor Serratto, Mayor Pro Tempore Boyle, Council Member Dupont, Council Member DeAnda, Council Member Harris, Council Member Smith, and Council Member Xiong
7 -
No: 0
Absent: 0
H.9. SUBJECT: Adoption of a Resolution Accepting $50,000 in Grant Funds from the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control for the Police Department to Conduct Enforcement Operations with the Goal of Reducing Underage Drinking and Other Alcohol Crimes Related to Underage Drinking
REPORT IN BRIEF
Considers approving to accept grant funds from the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control offered to the Merced Police Department in the amount of $50,000 for the Merced Police Department to conduct enforcement operations.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion:
A. Adopting Resolution 2025-55, a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Merced, California, accepting a grant award from the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control Alcohol Policing Program; and,
B. Authorizing the City Manager to execute the necessary documents; and,
C. Authorizing the use of pooled cash until reimbursement from the grant is received.
Mayor SERRATTO pulled this item at the request of Council Member XIONG.
Council Member XIONG requested a separate consideration.
September 2, 2025City Council/Public Finance and
Economic Development
Authority/Parking Authority
Minutes
Council Member XIONG and Chief of Police Steven STANFIELD discussed the use of the grant funding and the requirements of the grant.
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tempore Boyle, seconded by Council Member Dupont, that this agenda item be approved. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: Mayor Serratto, Mayor Pro Tempore Boyle, Council Member Dupont, Council Member DeAnda, Council Member Harris, and Council Member Smith 6 -
No: Council Member Xiong1 -
Absent: 0
H.13. SUBJECT: Adoption of a Resolution Authorizing Adoption of Caltrans’ Local Assistance Procedures Manual Chapter 10 and Approval of Professional Services Agreements with Dokken Engineering (Civil Design and Engineering), North Star
Engineering (Civil Design and Engineering), R.E.Y Engineers Inc. (Civil Design and Engineering) to Provide Support Services for the City’s Engineering Department in a not Exceed Amount of $1,000,000 per Agreement, Kleinfelder (Geotechnical Engineering, Construction Observation, Materials Testing, and Traffic Engineering), Crawford & Associates (Geotechnical Engineering, Construction Observation, and Materials Testing), BSK Associates (Geotechnical Engineering, Construction Observation, and Materials Testing), Advanced Mobility Group (Traffic Engineering), Peters Engineering Group (Traffic Engineering) and TJKM Transportation Consultants (Traffic Engineering) to Provide Support Services for the City’s Engineering Department in a not Exceed Amount of $500,000 per Agreement Based on the Consultant Hourly Rates Listed within Exhibit B of Each Respective Agreement for the Period Ending September 7, 2027
REPORT IN BRIEF
Considers approving multiple Professional Services Agreements for engineering and design services for the City’s Capital Improvement Projects, and support of the Engineering Department. The services provided under these agreements will mainly be funded from individual Capital Improvement Project budgets as the projects occur through the contract period ending September 7, 2027, at the hourly rates set forth in Exhibit B of each respective agreement.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion:
September 2, 2025City Council/Public Finance and
Economic Development
Authority/Parking Authority
Minutes
A. Adopting Resolution 2025-54, a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Merced, California, authorizing the adoption of Caltrans’ Local Assistance Procedures Manual Chapter 10; and,
B. Approving the Professional Services Agreements, for a contract period ending September 7, 2027, with Dokken Engineering (Civil Design and Engineering), North Star Engineering (Civil Design and Engineering), and R.E.Y Engineers Inc. (Civil Design and Engineering) in a Not to Exceed Amount of $1,000,000 for each agreement; and,
C. Approving Kleinfelder (Geotechnical Engineering, Construction Observation, Materials Testing, and Traffic Engineering), Crawford & Associates (Geotechnical Engineering, Construction Observation, and Materials Testing), BSK Associates (Geotechnical Engineering, Construction Observation, and Materials Testing), Advanced Mobility Group (Traffic Engineering), Peters Engineering Group (Traffic Engineering) and TJKM Transportation Consultants (Traffic Engineering) in a Not To Exceed Amount of $500,000 for each agreement to Provide Support Services for the City’s Capital Improvement Projects; and,
D. Authorizing the City Manager to sign the necessary documents.
Mayor SERRATTO pulled this item at the request of Council Member HARRIS.
Council and City Engineer Daryl JORDAN discussed the total amount of the agreement, the expansion of consultants for City projects, the funding that has been allocated to the budget, and the decision to choose three different consulting companies for different professions.
A motion was made by Council Member Harris, seconded by Mayor Pro Tempore Boyle, that this agenda item be approved. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: Mayor Serratto, Mayor Pro Tempore Boyle, Council Member Dupont, Council Member DeAnda, Council Member Harris, Council Member Smith, and Council Member Xiong
7 -
No: 0
Absent: 0
H.15. SUBJECT: Approval to Reject All Bids Received for the Re-Bid of Project No. CP220066 CMAQ (059) Traffic Signal Synchronization
September 2, 2025City Council/Public Finance and
Economic Development
Authority/Parking Authority
Minutes
REPORT IN BRIEF
Considers approving to reject all bids received for the rebid of CP220066 CMAQ (059) Traffic Signal Synchronization to update traffic signal equipment at 32 intersections and upgrade to traffic cameras at 14 intersections throughout the City due to insufficient project funding, as well as non-responsive or responsible contractor bid packets.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion rejecting all bids received for the re-bid of Project No. CP220066 CMAQ (059) Traffic Signal Synchronization due to insufficient funding and direct staff to re-evaluate the project design and re-bid the project.
Mayor SERRATTO pulled this item at the request of Council Member DUPONT.
Council and City Engineer Daryl JORDAN discussed the companies that placed a bid and did not place a bid, increase of funding for the project, the reasoning of why companies did not place a bid, the requirements of the Project Labor Agreement (PLA), and the rising cost of projects when including the PLA.
A motion was made by Council Member Dupont, seconded by Council Member Harris, that this agenda item be approved. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: Mayor Serratto, Mayor Pro Tempore Boyle, Council Member Dupont, Council Member DeAnda, Council Member Harris, Council Member Smith, and Council Member Xiong
7 -
No: 0
Absent: 0
I. PUBLIC HEARINGS
I.1. SUBJECT: Public Hearing - General Plan Amendment #24-03, Zone Change #435, Establishment of Residential Planned Development (RP-D) #83, and Vesting Tentative Subdivision Map #1333, Initiated by Lennar Homes of California, on Behalf of Merced Gateway, LLC, Property Owners. The Subject Site is Located at 3345, 3351, and 3610 E. Gerard Avenue, at the Southwest Corner of Campus Parkway and E. Gerard Avenue. The General Plan Amendment Would Change the General Plan Land Use Designation for Approximately 73.7 Acres from Manufacturing/Industrial (IND) and Business Park (BP) to
September 2, 2025City Council/Public Finance and
Economic Development
Authority/Parking Authority
Minutes
Approximately 40.25 Acres of Low-Medium Residential (LMD), Approximately 22.65 Acres of High-Medium Density Residential (HMD), and Approximately 9 Acres to Remain Business Park (BP).
The Zone Change Would Allow the Establishment of Residential Planned Development (RP-D) #83 to Change the Land Use from Business Park to “Residential” and Establish Development Standards for this Development. The Vesting Tentative Subdivision Map Would Subdivide Approximately 73.7 Acres to into Approximately 570 Residential Lots, Two Open Space/Park Areas Totaling Approximately 3 Acres, and Two Lots Designated Business Park (B-P) Totaling Approximately 9-Acres for Future Development
REPORT IN BRIEF
Staff recommends that this item be continued to the City Council meeting of October 6, 2025, to allow for additional review. The applicant has been notified and concurs. The public hearing will be opened, then continued to the City Council meeting of October 6, 2025.
RECOMMENDATION
The City Council open the public hearing, then adopt a motion to continue this item to the City Council meeting of October 6, 2025, at 6:00 p.m., or soon thereafter, in the City Council of Chambers.
Acting Planning Manager Jonnie LAN requested to continue the Public Hearing to the October 6th Council meeting due to additional review.
Mayor SERRATTO opened the Public Hearing at 6:37 PM and subsequently closed the Public Hearing at 6:37 PM due to lack of public comments.
Clerk’s Note: There was no Council discussion.
A motion was made by Council Member Harris, seconded by Council Member Dupont, to continue the Public Hearing to the October 6th Council meeting. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: Mayor Serratto, Mayor Pro Tempore Boyle, Council Member Dupont, Council Member Harris, Council Member Smith, and Council Member Xiong 6 -
No: Council Member DeAnda1 -
Absent: 0
J. ACTION ITEMS
J.1. SUBJECT: Approval of New Terms and Replacement of the Previously
September 2, 2025City Council/Public Finance and
Economic Development
Authority/Parking Authority
Minutes
Approved 3-Year MOU with the Merced County District Attorney’s Office to Share the Cost of One (1) Crime Analyst for the Merced County Violence Interruption and Prevention (VIPER) Program
REPORT IN BRIEF
Considers approving new terms and replacing the previously approved 3-year MOU with the Merced County District Attorney’s Office to share the cost of One (1) Crime Analyst for the Merced County Violence Interruption and Prevention (VIPER) program.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion:
A. Approving new terms and replacing the previously approved Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Merced County District Attorney’s Office to share the cost of one (1) VIPER Crime Analyst; and, B. Authorizing the City Manager to execute the necessary documents.
Chief of Police Steven STANFIELD briefly discussed the approval of new terms and the replacement of the previously approved Memorandum of Understanding for the Merced County Violence Interruption and Prevention (VIPER) Program.
Clerk’s Note: There was no Council discussion.
A motion was made by Council Member Smith, seconded by Council Member Harris, that this agenda item be approved. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: Mayor Serratto, Mayor Pro Tempore Boyle, Council Member Dupont, Council Member DeAnda, Council Member Harris, Council Member Smith, and Council Member Xiong
7 -
No: 0
Absent: 0
J.2. SUBJECT: Review of the Arts and Culture Advisory Commission’s Recommended Musical Performers for the City Council Brown Bag Concert Series, with Notification that $4500 in Funding for Three Performances was Approved During the 2024/25 Fiscal Year and Rolled Over to 2025/26 Fiscal Year and Request for City Council Approval to Allocate $4,500 from the 2025/26 Budgeted Art Project Funds to Support Three Additional Performances in February, March, and April 2026
September 2, 2025City Council/Public Finance and
Economic Development
Authority/Parking Authority
Minutes
REPORT IN BRIEF
Review of the Arts and Culture Advisory Commission’s recommended musical performers for the November, December, and January Brown Bag Concert Series, noting that the funding for three performances was rolled over to the 2025/26 fiscal year and request for City Council approval to allocate $4,500 from the 2025/26 budgeted art project funds to support three additional performances for an extended series in February, March and April 2026.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion
A. Approving musical performers for the Brown Bag Concert Series in November, December and January; and,
B. Approving three additional performances for an extended series in February, March, and April 2026; and,
C. Allowing the use of $4,500 appropriated Art Funding in the City Council Professional Services expense account towards the Brown Bag Concert Series in February, March and April of 2026; and,
D. Authorizing the City Manager to execute the necessary documents.
Senior Management Analyst Jennifer FLACHMAN briefly discussed the Arts and Culture Advisory Commission's recommended musical performers for the City Council Brown Bag Concert series and the approval of the funding for the musicians.
Council, City Attorney Craig CORNWELL, and Ms. FLACHMAN discussed the amount of affirmative votes for the Agenda Item and details of the event.
A motion was made by Council Member Smith, seconded by Council Member Dupont, that this agenda item be approved. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: Mayor Serratto, Mayor Pro Tempore Boyle, Council Member Dupont, Council Member DeAnda, Council Member Harris, Council Member Smith, and Council Member Xiong
7 -
No: 0
Absent: 0
K. REPORTS
September 2, 2025City Council/Public Finance and
Economic Development
Authority/Parking Authority
Minutes
K.1. SUBJECT: Review Fiscal Year 2025/2026 Community Funding Requests as Recommended by the City Council Budget Subcommittee
REPORT IN BRIEF
Review fiscal year 2025/2026 Community Funding requests as recommended by the City Council Budget Subcommittee.
RECOMMENDATION
Information Only.
Senior Management Analyst Jennifer FLACHMAN briefly discussed the Community Funding requests as recommended by the City Council Budget Subcommittee.
Mayor SERRATTO briefly discussed details of the City Council Budget Subcommittee meeting.
Necola ADAMS, President of the Merced County Nut Festival, Merced - thanked Council for the consideration to sponsor the Merced County Nut Festival, asked for a higher consideration due to difficulties in the last year, and shared details of the event.
Cindy KELLY, President of the Merced SPCA, Merced - thanked Council for the consideration to sponsor the Merced SPCA and spoke on the Trap-Neuter-Release program.
Clerk's Note: There was no formal vote taken, item was for information only.
L. BUSINESS
L.1. SUBJECT: Request to Add Item to Future Agenda
REPORT IN BRIEF
Provides members of the City Council to request that an item be placed on a future City Council agenda for initial consideration by the City Council.
Clerk's Note: There were no future agenda items.
L.2. SUBJECT: City Council Comments
REPORT IN BRIEF
Provides an opportunity for the Mayor and/or Council Member(s) to make a
September 2, 2025City Council/Public Finance and
Economic Development
Authority/Parking Authority
Minutes
brief announcement on any activity(ies) she/he has attended on behalf of the City and to make a brief announcement on future community events and/or activities. The Brown Act does not allow discussion or action by the legislative body under this section.
Council Member SMITH spoke on the High Speed Rail (HSR) Authority's recent announcement of taking the City of Merced off the map, the consulting group for the General Plan Amendment and the Downtown Station Area Plan to continue the opportunity of keeping the HSR in Merced, the investments in Merced, and continuously advocating for HSR in Merced.
Council Member HARRIS reported on attending the Main Street Association meeting, the opening of Congressman Adam GRAY's new office, the Swear-In Ceremony for Fire Chief Casey WILSON, and the Merced SPCA Adoption event.
Council Member DUPONT reported on attending the Swear-In Ceremony for Fire Chief Casey WILSON, spoke on joining the concerns raised by Council Member SMITH, and the growth of the City of Merced.
M. ADJOURNMENT
Clerk's Note: The Regular Meeting was adjourned at 7:03 PM.
A motion was made by Council Member Harris, seconded by Mayor Pro Tempore Boyle, that this Regular Meeting be adjourned. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: Mayor Serratto, Mayor Pro Tempore Boyle, Council Member Dupont, Council Member DeAnda, Council Member Harris, Council Member Smith, and Council Member Xiong
7 -
No: 0
Absent: 0