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MODESTO CITY COUNCIL
www.modestogov.com
MINUTES
City of Modesto
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Chambers, Basement Level
Tenth Street Place, 1010 10th Street
Modesto, California
Tuesday, February 25, 2025 at 5:30 PM
Special City Council - Closed Session Meeting 4:15 p.m.:
Roll Call – Present: Councilmembers Alvarez, Bavaro, Escutia-Braaton, Williams, Wright, Mayor Zwahlen
Absent: Ricci
Regular City Council Meeting, 5:30 p.m.:
Roll Call – Present: Councilmembers Alvarez, Bavaro, Escutia-Braaton, Williams, Wright, Mayor Zwahlen
Absent: Ricci
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag
Invocation: Jeff Pishney, Love Stanislaus County
City Clerk’s Announcements: None
Declaration of Conflicts of Interest: None
Reports from Closed Session: No reportable action.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND PRESENTATIONS
1. Proclamation declaring March as National Women's History Month. (Funding Source:
Not Applicable)
CITY COUNCIL; Breanna Griffin, 209-577-5421, [email protected] - 2 -
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ACTION: Mayor Zwahlen presented proclamation declaring March as National Women's History Month.
2. Presentation of Award from National Town Watch Association for the City of Modesto's participation in National Night Out 2024. (Funding Source: Not Applicable) POLICE DEPARTMENT; Charlene Aragon, 209-342-9175,
[email protected]
ACTION: Lieutenant Michael Hammond presented the Award from National Town Watch Association for the City of Modesto's participation in National Night Out 2024.
MISCELLANEOUS
3. Consider accepting the resignations of Austin Grant and Joel Campos from the City of Modesto’s Equity Commission. (Funding Source: Not Applicable) Staff Recommendation:
Resolution accepting the resignations of Austin Grant and Joel Campos from the City of Modesto’s Equity Commission.
HUMAN RESOURCES; Christina Alger, 209-571-5126, [email protected] ACTION: (Williams/Wright; 6/0) Resolution 2025-060 accepting the resignations of Austin Grant and Joel Campos from the City of Modesto’s Equity Commission.
PUBLIC COMMENT IN PERSON
James Varble, secretary and president-elect of the McHenry Museum and Historical Society addressed the Modesto City Council to clarify concerns. He acknowledged past filing issues, now resolved, and dismissed claims from disruptive individuals demanding confidential information and an employee’s termination. He affirmed proper donation handling and corrected misinformation about a history book coauthored by the Executive Director. Varble reiterated the Society’s commitment to preserving local history and working with the City.
Jesse Wiggins, a Modesto realtor and member of the Board of Building Appeals, addressed the Council about the lack of support for property owners in maintaining rental properties. While tenant advocacy programs exist, she noted a gap in resources for owners, especially those who are elderly or inherited properties. She proposed a referral program to help owners with repairs and code compliance and has discussed the idea with a City Representative.
Danielle Morgart, representing Assemblyman Juan Alanis, provided a legislative update.
She highlighted two key bills: AB 767, preventing the placement of sexually violent predators near schools and daycares, and AB 873, streamlining dental training to address workforce shortages. Alanis introduced 18 bills and coauthored numerous others. She encouraged the Council to reach out with any questions. - 3 -
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Juan Telles, a West Modesto resident and community organizer, spoke about the need for transparency and collaboration in the City's strategic planning process. He proposed partnering on listening sessions across Modesto to gather resident input, followed by a town hall to share decisions and priorities. Telles emphasized his role in bringing community voices to the table for a more inclusive and revitalized City. Claudia Ponce, a Modesto resident from District 2, raised concerns about infrastructure issues in South Side Modesto, including flooding, lack of sidewalks, and unsafe conditions for children. She also highlighted a growing trash problem, with some areas becoming dumping sites. Ponce suggested adding trash cans at bus stops and organizing City-supported cleanups to improve the community.
Lucas expressed concerns about increasing graffiti around Wood Colony and McHenry Ave., affecting businesses and properties. He also questioned the benefits of a proposed roundabout at an intersection near Carpenter Rd., seeking clarification on its impact. Daisy Mayorga urged City leaders to support local innovation and emerging technologies like blockchain, AI, and Web3 to prevent the community from falling behind. She highlighted efforts since 2019 to bring tech education to the region, including the 2023 launch of Yuda, which provides training in these fields. She criticized the lack of local government support for startups and the failure of SB 701, which aimed to create blockchain-related degrees. Mayorga emphasized that other cities investing in these technologies are thriving, while those that don’t risk losing talent and economic opportunities. She called for action to secure funding, support education, and invest in the future.
CONSENT ITEMS – ROLL CALL VOTE REQUIRED
ACTION CONSENT ITEMS: (4-20; Bavaro/Escutia-Braaton; 6/0)
CONSENT
Consent
4. Consider approving the minutes for the February 4, 2025 Council Meeting. (Funding Source: Not Applicable)
Motion approving the minutes for the February 4, 2025 Council Meeting.
CITY CLERK; Diane Nayares-Perez, 209-577-5396, [email protected] ACTION: (Bavaro/Escutia-Braaton; 6/0) Motion approving the minutes for the February 4, 2025 Council Meeting.
Consent
5. Consider directing staff to prepare and file the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Engineer’s Annual Report for City of Modesto Landscape Maintenance Assessment District No. 1 (Dry Creek Meadows Subdivisions Nos. 1-6). (Funding Source: Landscape Maintenance Assessment District No. 1)
Resolution directing staff to prepare and file the Fiscal Year 2025-26 - 4 -
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Engineer’s Annual Report for City of Modesto Landscape Maintenance Assessment District No. 1 (Dry Creek Meadows Subdivisions Nos. 1-6).
CED; Edgar Garcia, 209-577-5211, [email protected] ACTION: (Bavaro/Escutia-Braaton; 6/0) Resolution 2025-061 directing staff to prepare and file the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Engineer’s Annual Report for City of Modesto Landscape Maintenance Assessment District No. 1 (Dry Creek Meadows Subdivisions Nos. 1-6).
Consent
6. Consider directing staff to prepare and file the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Engineer’s Annual Report for City of Modesto Landscape Maintenance Assessment District No. 2 (Dry Creek Meadows Subdivisions Nos. 7-10, Creekwood Meadows Subdivision and Yosemite Meadows Subdivisions Units 1 and 2). (Funding Source: Landscape Maintenance Assessment District No. 2)
Resolution directing staff to prepare and file the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Engineer’s Annual Report for City of Modesto Landscape Maintenance Assessment District No. 2 (Dry Creek Meadows Subdivisions Nos. 7-10, Creekwood Meadows Subdivision and Yosemite Meadows Subdivisions Units 1 and 2).
CED; Edgar Garcia, 209-577-5211, [email protected] ACTION: (Bavaro/Escutia-Braaton; 6/0) Resolution 2025-062 directing staff to prepare and file the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Engineer’s Annual Report for City of Modesto Landscape Maintenance Assessment District No. 2 (Dry Creek Meadows Subdivisions Nos. 7-10, Creekwood Meadows Subdivision and Yosemite Meadows Subdivisions Units 1 and 2).
Consent
7. Consider directing staff to prepare and file the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Engineer’s Annual Report for City of Modesto Shackelford Landscape and Lighting District (Funding Source: Shackelford Landscape and Lighting District)
Resolution directing staff to prepare and file the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Engineer’s Annual Report for City of Modesto Shackelford Landscape and Lighting District.
CED; Edgar Garcia, 209-577-5211, [email protected] ACTION: (Bavaro/Escutia-Braaton; 6/0) Resolution 2025-063 directing staff to prepare and file the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Engineer’s Annual Report for City of Modesto Shackelford Landscape and Lighting District.
Consent
8. Consider approving the submission of the City’s Local Transportation Funds Fiscal Year 2023-24 and 2024-25 Claim for Non-Motorized and Other Purposes (bike lanes and pedestrian pathways) in the amount of $487,911, to the Stanislaus Council of Governments (StanCOG). (Funding Source: Local Transportation Funds) - 5 -
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Resolution approving the submission of the City’s Local Transportation Funds Fiscal Year 2023-24 and 2024-25 Claim for Non-motorized and Other Purposes (bike lanes and pedestrian pathways) in the amount of $487,911 to the Stanislaus Council of Governments (STANCOG) and authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to take the necessary steps to implement the provisions of this Resolution.
Resolution amending the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Capital Improvement Program Budget to fund project #100813 (Virginia Corridor Phase VII) in an amount not to exceed $645,521 in transfers, revenue, and to budget expenditures to fund the project, and authorizing the City Manager or his designee, to implement the provisions of this Resolution.
ENGINEERING SERVICES; Nathan Houx, 209-571-5526, [email protected] ACTION: (Bavaro/Escutia-Braaton; 6/0) Resolution 2025-064 approving the submission of the City’s Local Transportation Funds Fiscal Year 2023-24 and 2024-25 Claim for Non-motorized and Other Purposes (bike lanes and pedestrian pathways) in the amount of $487,911 to the Stanislaus Council of Governments (STANCOG) and authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to take the necessary steps to implement the provisions of this Resolution.
ACTION: (Bavaro/Escutia-Braaton; 6/0) Resolution 2025-065 amending the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Capital Improvement Program Budget to fund project #100813 (Virginia Corridor Phase VII) in an amount not to exceed $645,521 in transfers, revenue, and to budget expenditures to fund the project, and authorizing the City Manager or his designee, to implement the provisions of this Resolution.
Consent
9. Consider accepting the Empire Yosemite Boulevard Water Main Crossings Strengthen & Replace Project as complete, releasing securities, releasing payments totaling $1,125,289 to DDS Company, doing business as (DBA) Knife River Construction, of Stockton, CA, and authorizing the City Clerk to file a Notice of Completion. (Funding Source: Water Fund)
Resolution accepting the Empire Yosemite Boulevard Water Main Crossings Strengthen & Replace Project as complete, releasing securities, releasing payments totaling $1,125,289 to DDS Company, doing business as (DBA) Knife River Construction, of Stockton, CA, and authorizing the City Clerk to file a Notice of Completion.
ENGINEERING SERVICES; Peter Kambel, 209-577-5444, [email protected] ACTION: (Bavaro/Escutia-Braaton; 6/0) Resolution 2025-066 accepting the Empire Yosemite Boulevard Water Main Crossings Strengthen & Replace Project as complete, releasing securities, releasing payments totaling $1,125,289 to DDS Company, doing business as (DBA) Knife River Construction, of Stockton, CA, and authorizing the City Clerk to file a Notice of Completion. - 6 -
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Consent
10. Consider accepting the Park Turf Reduction Phase I Project as complete, releasing securities, releasing payments totaling $345,092 to Marina Landscape, Inc., of Orange, CA, and authorizing the City Clerk to file a Notice of Completion. (Funding Source:
American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), Urban Community Drought Relief Grant Program)
Resolution accepting the Park Turf Reduction Phase I Project as complete, releasing securities, releasing payments totaling $345,092 to Marina Landscape, Inc., of Orange, CA., and authorizing the City Clerk to file a Notice of Completion.
ENGINEERING SERVICES; Pete Kambel, 209-577-5444, [email protected] ACTION: (Bavaro/Escutia-Braaton; 6/0) Resolution 2025-067 accepting the Park Turf Reduction Phase I Project as complete, releasing securities, releasing payments totaling $345,092 to Marina Landscape, Inc., of Orange, CA., and authorizing the City Clerk to file a Notice of Completion.
Consent
11. Consider accepting the Sutter Trunk Rehabilitation Phase 2 Project as complete, releasing securities, releasing payments totaling $5,335,597 to A. Teichert & Son, Inc., doing business as (DBA) Teichert Construction, of Roseville, CA, and authorizing the City Clerk to file a Notice of Completion. (Funding Source: Wastewater Fund) Resolution accepting the Sutter Trunk Rehabilitation Phase 2 Project as complete, releasing securities, releasing payments totaling $5,335,597 to A.
Teichert & Son, Inc., DBA Teichert Construction, of Roseville, CA, and authorizing the City Clerk to file a Notice of Completion.
ENGINEERING SERVICES; Pete Kambel, 209-577-5444, [email protected] ACTION: (Bavaro/Escutia-Braaton; 6/0) Resolution 2025-068 accepting the Sutter Trunk Rehabilitation Phase 2 Project as complete, releasing securities, releasing payments totaling $5,335,597 to A. Teichert & Son, Inc., DBA Teichert Construction, of Roseville, CA, and authorizing the City Clerk to file a Notice of Completion.
Consent
12. Consider accepting the Monthly Investment Report for December 2024. (Funding Source: Various Funds)
Motion accepting the Monthly Investment Report for December 2024.
FINANCE DEPARTMENT; Calogero Maniscalco, 209-577-5219,
[email protected]
ACTION: (Bavaro/Escutia-Braaton; 6/0) Motion accepting the Monthly Investment Report for December 2024.
Consent
13. Consider accepting an Informational Report on the November and December 2024 - 7 -
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Grant Applications and Awards. (Funding Source: Not Applicable) Motion accepting an Informational Report for November and December 2024, Grant Applications and Awards.
FINANCE DEPARTMENT; Maria Garnica, 209-577-5249,
[email protected]
ACTION: (Bavaro/Escutia-Braaton; 6/0) Motion accepting an Informational Report for November and December 2024, Grant Applications and Awards.
Consent
14. Consider approving the Audited Financial Statements and various Audit Reports for Fiscal Year 2023-2024, audited by external auditor Vasquez & Company, LLP. for the City’s Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR), thirteen Community Facilities Districts (CFDs), Measure H, Single Audit, and various Joint Powers Agencies. (Funding Source: Not Applicable)
Resolution approving the Audited Financial Statements and various Audit Reports for Fiscal Year 2023-2024 audited by external auditors Vasquez & Company, LLP. for the City’s Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR), thirteen Community Facilities Districts (CFDs), Measure H and various Joint Powers Agencies (JPAs).
Resolution approving the audited Fiscal Year 2023-2024 Federal Single Audit report for the City of Modesto from external auditors Vasquez & Company, LLP.
FINANCE DEPARTMENT; Maria Garnica, 209-577-5249,
[email protected]
ACTION: (Bavaro/Escutia-Braaton; 6/0) Resolution 2025-069 approving the Audited Financial Statements and various Audit Reports for Fiscal Year 2023-2024 audited by external auditors Vasquez & Company, LLP. for the City’s Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR), thirteen Community Facilities Districts (CFDs), Measure H and various Joint Powers Agencies (JPAs).
ACTION: (Bavaro/Escutia-Braaton; 6/0) Resolution 2025-070 approving the audited Fiscal Year 2023-2024 Federal Single Audit report for the City of Modesto from external auditors Vasquez & Company, LLP.
Consent
15. Consider approving the Purchasing Agreements for the purchase of Transit Motor Parts with Gillig (LLC) Limited Liability Company, Hayward, CA, and Fleet Motor Parts and Services with Municipal Maintenance Equipment (MME), Sacramento, CA for a total amount not to exceed $3,575,000. (Funding Source: Fleet Fund and Stanislaus Regional Transit Authority)
Resolution approving the Purchasing Agreement for the purchase of Transit Motor Parts with Gillig LLC, Hayward, CA, for a two-year Agreement with three one-year extension options, for an annual estimated amount of $385,000 and a total amount not to exceed $1,925,000 over five years; and authorizing - 8 -
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the City Manager or his designee to execute the Agreement. Resolution approving the Purchasing Agreements for the purchase of parts and repair services with Municipal Maintenance Equipment, Sacramento, CA for a two-year Agreement with three one-year extension options, for an annual combined estimated amount of $330,000 and a total amount not to exceed $1,650,000 over five years; and authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute the Agreements.
FINANCE DEPARTMENT; Dianne Love, 209-571-5164, [email protected] ACTION: (Bavaro/Escutia-Braaton; 6/0) Resolution 2025-071 approving the Purchasing Agreement for the purchase of Transit Motor Parts with Gillig LLC, Hayward, CA, for a two-year Agreement with three one-year extension options, for an annual estimated amount of $385,000 and a total amount not to exceed $1,925,000 over five years; and authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute the Agreement.
ACTION: (Bavaro/Escutia-Braaton; 6/0) Resolution 2025-072 approving the Purchasing Agreements for the purchase of parts and repair services with Municipal Maintenance Equipment, Sacramento, CA for a two-year Agreement with three oneyear extension options, for an annual combined estimated amount of $330,000 and a total amount not to exceed $1,650,000 over five years; and authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute the Agreements.
Consent
16. Consider approving the First Amendment with Neil Sullivan LLC, Concord, California for Executive Team and Management Engagement Services increasing the Agreement amount to $50,000. (Funding Source: Various Funds)
Resolution approving the First Amendment with Neil Sullivan LLC, Concord, California for Executive Team and Management Engagement Services increasing the Agreement amount by $50,000 to a new total amount of $200,000 through the term of the Agreement; and authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute the Amendment.
FINANCE DEPARTMENT; Dianne Love, 209-571-5164, [email protected] ACTION: (Bavaro/Escutia-Braaton; 6/0) Resolution 2025-073 approving the First Amendment with Neil Sullivan LLC, Concord, California for Executive Team and Management Engagement Services increasing the Agreement amount by $50,000 to a new total amount of $200,000 through the term of the Agreement; and authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute the Amendment.
Consent
17. Consider approving the Agreements with Bolt Staffing Service, Inc., Stockton, CA and Tryfacta, Inc., Stockton, CA for the furnishing of Temporary Staffing Services, for a total amount not to exceed $2,596,340 over five years. (Funding Source: Various Funds)
Resolution approving the Agreements for the furnishing of Temporary Staffing - 9 -
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Services with Bolt Staffing Service, Inc., Stockton, CA, for a two-year agreement with three one-year extension options, for an annual combined estimated amount of $519,268 and a total combined amount not to exceed $2,596,341 over five years and authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute the Agreements.
HUMAN RESOURCES; Christina Alger, 209-571-5126, [email protected] ACTION: (Bavaro/Escutia-Braaton; 6/0) Resolution 2025-074 approving the Agreements for the furnishing of Temporary Staffing Services with Bolt Staffing Service, Inc., Stockton, CA, for a two-year agreement with three one-year extension options, for an annual combined estimated amount of $519,268 and a total combined amount not to exceed $2,596,341 over five years and authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute the Agreements.
Consent
18. Consider approving establishing the creation of a new fund to track the Opioids Settlement Proceeds and Opioids Spending Plan as defined by the State of California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS). (Funding Source: Settlement Proceeds) Resolution approving the creation of a new Fund, 1890 – Opioid Settlements Fund, to track the Opioids Settlement Proceeds and Opioids Spending Plan as defined by the State of California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS). Resolution approving an amendment to the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Multi-Year Operating Budget to fund Project 101646 – Opioid Settlement Funds in the amount of $1,728,302 to increase expenditures and recognize revenue for the Opioids Spending Plan based upon the settlement amounts.
POLICE DEPARTMENT; Chris Adams, 209-572-9500, [email protected] ACTION: (Bavaro/Escutia-Braaton; 6/0) Resolution 2025-075 approving the creation of a new Fund, 1890 – Opioid Settlements Fund, to track the Opioids Settlement Proceeds and Opioids Spending Plan as defined by the State of California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS).
ACTION: (Bavaro/Escutia-Braaton; 6/0) Resolution 2025-076 approving an amendment to the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Multi-Year Operating Budget to fund Project 101646 – Opioid Settlement Funds in the amount of $1,728,302 to increase expenditures and recognize revenue for the Opioids Spending Plan based upon the settlement amounts.
Consent
19. Consider approving the First Amendment with Audeamus DBA Sebastian, Fresno, CA, for the Building Intrusion Alarm Services, increasing the Agreement for a total amount not to exceed $206,694 over five years. (Funding Source: Building Maintenance Fund) Resolution approving the First Amendment with Audeamus DBA Sebastian, for the Building Intrusion Alarm Services, increasing the Agreement amount by $122,696 for a new total amount not to exceed $206,694; and authorizing the City Manager, or his designee to execute the Amendment. - 10 -
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PUBLIC WORKS; Gabe daSilva, 209-342-2281, [email protected] ACTION: (Bavaro/Escutia-Braaton; 6/0) Resolution 2025-077 approving the First Amendment with Audeamus DBA Sebastian, for the Building Intrusion Alarm Services, increasing the Agreement amount by $122,696 for a new total amount not to exceed $206,694; and authorizing the City Manager, or his designee to execute the Amendment.
Consent
20. Consider approving an Agreement with Carollo Engineers, Inc., Sacramento, CA for Standard Operating Procedures Development and Gap Analysis Services for a total amount not to exceed $801,220. (Funding Source: Sewer Operations Fund) Resolution approving an Agreement with Carollo Engineers, Inc., Sacramento, CA, for Standard Operating Procedures Development and Gap Analysis Services in the amount of $728,382, plus $72,838 in additional services, if needed, for a total amount not to exceed $801,220; and authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to execute the Agreement.
Resolution amending the Fiscal Year 2023-2024 Non-Capital Improvements Program budget to increase Project Number 101474 - SOP Development by $401,220, from $400,000, for a revised total amount not to exceed $801,220, in transfers, revenue, and discretionary expenditures, and authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to implement the provisions of this Resolution.
UTILITIES; Jeff Daniels, 209-577-6255, [email protected] ACTION: (Bavaro/Escutia-Braaton; 6/0) Resolution 2025-078 approving an Agreement with Carollo Engineers, Inc., Sacramento, CA, for Standard Operating Procedures Development and Gap Analysis Services in the amount of $728,382, plus $72,838 in additional services, if needed, for a total amount not to exceed $801,220; and authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to execute the Agreement.
ACTION: (Bavaro/Escutia-Braaton; 6/0) Resolution 2025-079 amending the Fiscal Year 2023-2024 Non-Capital Improvements Program budget to increase Project Number 101474 - SOP Development by $401,220, from $400,000, for a revised total amount not to exceed $801,220, in transfers, revenue, and discretionary expenditures, and authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to implement the provisions of this Resolution.
COUNCIL COMMENTS & REPORTS
Vice-Mayor Bavaro reported on multiple police operations targeting smoke shops in Modesto, revealing widespread illegal activity. Recent inspections led to numerous arrests and the seizure of illegal tobacco, cannabis, meth pipes, firearms, and gambling funds.
Investigations showed many smoke shops serve as fronts for crimes, including illegal gambling and drug sales, often targeting youth with cartoon-themed packaging. Bavaro emphasized that these businesses contribute no social or economic value and expressed support for an upcoming Smoke Shop ordinance.
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Council Member Williams recapped several community events from the past weekend. On Friday, the City honored the late Rebecca Harrington, a dedicated community advocate, with a well-attended celebration of her life. On Saturday, the Kiwanis convention took place in Modesto, bringing over 600 attendees from California, Nevada, and Hawaii. The North Modesto Kiwanis Club, led by Chairperson Anna, did an excellent job hosting. That evening, Williams attended the Modesto Firefighters Association crab feed, which was well-attended and enjoyable. Additionally, Williams spoke to the Central Valley Association of Realtors (CVAA) about upcoming housing developments in Modesto and encouraged involvement in City commissions, particularly in housing. He highlighted a City program that assists homeowners in need of repairs, directing residents to Modesto's website for more information. Council Member Williams added two important upcoming events in celebration of Black History Month. The first on February 26th at the Red Event Center on 801 Eighth Street at 11:30 AM, featuring four speakers. The second event is on February 28th at the King Kennedy Center, 601 North Martin Luther King Drive, at 5:30 PM, offering a free Black History Month program with light food. Williams emphasized the importance of sharing this information with the community.
Council Member Alvarez discussed various initiatives and advocacy efforts, particularly addressing infrastructure issues in South Modesto. In 2023, Alvarez supported a $16 million budget request for infrastructure improvements in unincorporated areas, collaborating with Senator Marie Alvarado-Gil's office and Supervisor Condit. He highlighted ongoing efforts with Measure H-funded blight mitigation programs, where City trucks respond to constituent requests to tackle blight and debris. Alvarez also mentioned upcoming community meetings for the City's five-year consolidated plan, which will focus on affordable housing, homelessness, and social services. The first workshop in District 2 will be on February 26th at the King Kennedy Center, followed by another on March 3rd at the Airport Neighborhood Collaborative.
Council Member Escutia-Braaton praised the dedication and hard work of local firefighters, who respond to around 43,000 calls yearly, averaging 30 to 70 calls a day. She highlighted their bravery and courage and celebrated them at a recent crab feed. Escutia-Braaton also shared her participation in the National Association of Regional Councils conference, representing the Stanislaus Council of Governments. She attended the installation of Rabbi Caitlin Bromberg at Beth Shalom and expressed excitement for an upcoming trip to Sacramento to advocate for local transportation funding. She added the importance of public feedback on local projects and encouraged residents to participate in community events or provide input through an online survey on the Modesto website.
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS & REPORTS
None.
HEARINGS
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Published in the Modesto Bee on February 14, 2025. - Item requested to be continued to March 11, 2025 Council meeting.
21. Hearing to consider approving an application for a Conditional Use Permit and Operating Agreement by Outfront Media to allow a digital freeway billboard located on the east side of State Highway 99 and south of Evergreen Avenue, located at 2024 W. Orangeburg Avenue. (Funding Source: Application Fee) Motion to continue item to March 11, 2025.
CED; Edwin Borquez, 209-577-5516, [email protected] ACTION: (Wright/Williams; 6/0) Motion to continue item to March 11, 2025.
MATTERS TOO LATE FOR THE AGENDA
None.
ADJOURNMENT
This meeting adjourned at 6:32 P.M.
Attest:____________________________
Diane Nayares-Perez, City Clerk
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All Closed Session Matters heard prior to the meeting.
CLOSED SESSION
CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL — ANTICIPATED LITIGATION
One Claim (Pursuant to Section 54956.9(d)(2) of the Government Code) Name of Claim: Sergio Gonzalez v. City of Modesto, et al.
CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATORS:
(Pursuant to Section 54956.8 of the Government Code)
Property: 601 Neece Dr., Modesto, CA 95351; APN: 102-012-001 and 102-012-004 Property Owners: City of Modesto
Negotiating Parties:
For City: Joseph P. Lopez, City Manager
For Lessee: DBH Modesto, LLC
Under Negotiation: Price and Terms of Lease