- 1 -
8/25/2026 5:30:00 PM
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, August 25, 2026 at 5:30 PM
Special City Council – Closed Session Meeting 4:30 p.m.
Roll Call: Present: Councilmembers Alvarez, Bavaro, Escutia-Braaton, Ricci, Williams, Wright, Mayor Zwahlen
Absent: None
Regular City Council Meeting 5:30 p.m.
Roll Call: Present: Councilmembers Alvarez, Bavaro, Escutia-Braaton, Ricci, Williams, Wright, Mayor Zwahlen
Absent: None
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag
Invocation: Mike Gunnarson, City Ministry Network
City Clerk’s Announcements: None
Reports from Closed Session:
ACTION: (Ricci/Escutia-Braaton; 7/0) Item 1 - Motion appointing Real Property Negotiator Joseph P. Lopez, City Manager for property 083-004-048, 2519 Sylvan Ave., Modesto, CA 95355.
No other reportable action.
- 2 -
8/25/2026 5:30:00 PM
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND PRESENTATIONS
1. Certificate of Recognition celebrating the 90th Anniversary of Sciabica Family Olive Oil & Gourmet Foods. (Funding Source: Not Applicable)
CITY COUNCIL; Breanna Griffin, 209-577-5421, [email protected] ACTION: Mayor Zwahlen presented a Certificate of Recognition celebrating the 90th Anniversary of Sciabica Family Olive Oil & Gourmet Foods.
MISCELLANEOUS
2. Consider accepting the resignation of Carlos Verduzco from the Entertainment Commission. (Funding Source: Not Applicable)
Staff Recommendation:
• Resolution accepting the resignation of Carlos Verduzco from the Entertainment Commission.
CED; Amber Abruzzo, 209-577-5244, [email protected] ACTION: (Williams/Alvarez; 7/0) Resolution 2026-267 accepting the resignation of Carlos Verduzco from the Entertainment Commission.
3. Consider appointing Sara Lytle-Pinhey and William Patterson to fill two (2) vacancies to the City of Modesto Entertainment Commission as a Non-Permit Holder with a partial term ending December 31, 2028, and appointing John Griswold to fill one (1) vacancy of a Non-Profit/Special Event Permit Holder for a partial term ending December 31, 2028. (Funding Source: Not Applicable)
Staff Recommendation:
• Resolution approving the appointment of Sara Lytle-Pinhey, John Griswold, and William Patterson to the Entertainment Commission for partial terms ending December 31, 2028, and Rescinding Resolution No. 2026-240.
CED; Amber Abruzzo, 209-577-5276, [email protected] ACTION: (Wright/Williams; 7/0) Resolution 2026-270 approving the appointment of Sara Lytle-Pinhey, John Griswold, and William Patterson to the Entertainment Commission for partial terms ending December 31, 2028, and Rescinding Resolution No. 2026-240.
PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD
• Danielle Morgart provided a legislative update on behalf of Assemblyman Juan Alanis, noting that AB 1617, concerning household hazardous waste reporting, and AB 1728, expanding community college course numbering to include firefighting and law enforcement courses, are awaiting the Governor’s signature. She also offered assistance with legislative and casework matters.
- 3 -
8/25/2026 5:30:00 PM
• Anthony Drobnick shared concerns about the treatment of a member of the public during the previous meeting, stating that the Council’s questioning was inappropriate and discouraged public participation. He also criticized a disparaging social media comment attributed to another councilmember and stated that such comments discourage residents from exercising their First Amendment rights. He further commented on the upcoming District 2 election.
• Bruce Hammerstrom voiced concerns regarding his civil rights and the City Attorney and City officials. He stated that he had not received follow-up regarding a previous meeting or his appeal of code violations and questioned the issuance and amount of recent citations. He expressed concern about the financial impact of the citations and stated that he would continue pursuing the matter.
• Kevin McClarty discussed the lack of commercial air service at Modesto Airport. He stated that Modesto does not qualify for the Federal Essential Air Service program because of its size and proximity to other airports. He suggested that the City explore alternative funding sources or incentives to attract commercial or smaller executive airline service to Modesto.
• Fran Phillips expressed concerns about homelessness and crime in the residential area near McHenry Avenue, including a vehicle break-in and people approaching her home asking for money. She also questioned the number of marijuana dispensaries in the area and stated that she believes the concentration of dispensaries is contributing to problems along McHenry Avenue.
• Jonathan asked about the process for placing topics on a City Council agenda.
Specifically, he sought clarification regarding whether data centers and Flock cameras could be placed on an agenda for discussion without requesting a moratorium, and asked about the distinction between a general discussion and a request for a moratorium.
Written General Public Comments Received (Funding Source: Not Applicable) CITY CLERK; City Clerk, 209-577-5396, [email protected] CONSENT ITEMS – ROLL CALL VOTE REQUIRED
ACTION CONSENT ITEMS: 4-9 (Wright/Escutia-Braaton; 7/0)
CONSENT
Consent
4. Consider approving the Minutes for the August 11, 2026 Council Meeting. (Funding Source: Not Applicable)
• Motion approving the Minutes for the August 11, 2026 Council Meeting.
CITY CLERK; Diane Nayares-Perez, 209-577-5396, [email protected] ACTION: (Wright/Escutia-Braaton; 7/0) Motion approving the Minutes for the - 4 -
8/25/2026 5:30:00 PM
August 11, 2026 Council Meeting.
Consent
5. Consider approving an Agreement for the operation of a Safe Sleeping Program with Modesto Gospel Mission for a total amount not to exceed $100,000. (Funding Source:
Measure H Funds)
• Resolution approving an Agreement for the operation of a Safe Sleeping Program with Modesto Gospel Mission for a total amount not to exceed $100,000 and authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to execute the Agreement.
• Resolution amending the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 multi-year non-capital multiyear budget to create a new project and establish applicable revenue, expense and transfer budgets for the Modesto Gospel Mission Safe Sleep Program to be funded with Measure H Funds in the amount of $100,000 and authorizing the City Manager or his designee, to take the necessary steps to implement the provisions of this Resolution.
CED; Edgar Garcia, 209-571-5101, [email protected] ACTION: (Wright/Escutia-Braaton; 7/0) Resolution 2026-269 approving an Agreement for the operation of a Safe Sleeping Program with Modesto Gospel Mission for a total amount not to exceed $100,000 and authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to execute the Agreement.
ACTION: (Wright/Escutia-Braaton; 7/0) Resolution 2026-270 amending the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 multi-year non-capital multi-year budget to create a new project and establish applicable revenue, expense and transfer budgets for the Modesto Gospel Mission Safe Sleep Program to be funded with Measure H Funds in the amount of $100,000 and authorizing the City Manager or his designee, to take the necessary steps to implement the provisions of this Resolution.
Consent
6. Consider accepting an Informational Report for the June 2026 Accounts Payable Payment Register and Void Report. (Funding Source: Not Applicable) • Motion accepting an Informational Report for the June 2026 Accounts Payable Payment Register and Void Report.
FINANCE DEPARTMENT; Maria Garnica, 209-577-5249,
[email protected]
ACTION: (Wright/Escutia-Braaton; 7/0) Motion accepting an Informational Report for the June 2026 Accounts Payable Payment Register and Void Report.
Consent
7. Consider approving the purchase for seven (7) Fleet Replacements for a total amount not to exceed $1,110,447. (Funding Source: Fleet Replacement Fund) • Resolution approving the Competitive Bidding Process from Sourcewell to The Charles Machine Works, Inc. Ditch Witch Division, West Sacramento, CA, to - 5 -
8/25/2026 5:30:00 PM
purchase one (1) Trailer Mounted Vacuum System for an amount not to exceed $143,395; and authorizing the Director of Finance, or her designee, to issue the Purchase Order; and authorizing the Director of Finance or her designee to execute any Change Orders not to exceed 15% of the total purchase price. • Resolution approving the Competitive Bidding Process from Sourcewell to Manufacture Bomag Americas, Inc. under the authorized dealer Herrmann Equipment, Inc., Roseville, CA, to purchase one (1) Cedarapids Hot Mix Paver for an amount not to exceed $682,430; and authorizing the Director of Finance, or her designee, to issue the Purchase Order; and authorizing the Director of Finance or her designee to execute any Change Orders not to exceed 15% of the total purchase price.
• Resolution approving the Competitive Bidding Process from State of California, Department of General Services to Winner Chevrolet, Sacramento, CA, for the purchase of one (1) Chevy Tahoe for an amount not to exceed $71,868; and authorizing the Director of Finance, or her designee, to issue the Purchase Order; and authorizing the Director of Finance or her designee to execute any Change Orders not to exceed 15% of the total purchase price. • Resolution approving the Competitive Bidding Process from State of California, Department of General Services to Elk Grove Auto, Elk Grove, CA, for the purchase of one (1) Dodge Durango for an amount not to exceed $51,764, and authorizing the Director of Finance, or her designee, to issue the Purchase Order; and authorizing the Director of Finance or her designee to execute any Change Orders not to exceed 15% of the total purchase price. • Resolution approving the Competitive Bidding Process from the City of Pasadena, CA to Winner Chevrolet, Sacramento, CA for the purchase of three (3) Chevrolet Traverses for an amount not to exceed $160,990, and authorizing the Director of Finance, or her designee, to issue the Purchase Order; and authorizing the Director of Finance or her designee to execute any Change Orders not to exceed 15% of the total purchase price.
FINANCE DEPARTMENT; Dianne Love, 209-571-5164, [email protected] ACTION: (Wright/Escutia-Braaton; 7/0) Resolution 2026-271 approving the Competitive Bidding Process from Sourcewell to The Charles Machine Works, Inc.
Ditch Witch Division, West Sacramento, CA, to purchase one (1) Trailer Mounted Vacuum System for an amount not to exceed $143,395; and authorizing the Director of Finance, or her designee, to issue the Purchase Order; and authorizing the Director of Finance or her designee to execute any Change Orders not to exceed 15% of the total purchase price.
ACTION: (Wright/Escutia-Braaton; 7/0) Resolution 2026-272 approving the Competitive Bidding Process from Sourcewell to Manufacture Bomag Americas, Inc. under the authorized dealer Herrmann Equipment, Inc., Roseville, CA, to purchase one (1) Cedarapids Hot Mix Paver for an amount not to exceed $682,430; and authorizing the Director of Finance, or her designee, to issue the Purchase Order; and authorizing the Director of Finance or her designee to execute any Change Orders not to exceed 15% of the total purchase price.
- 6 -
8/25/2026 5:30:00 PM
ACTION: (Wright/Escutia-Braaton; 7/0) Resolution 2026-273 approving the Competitive Bidding Process from State of California, Department of General Services to Winner Chevrolet, Sacramento, CA, for the purchase of one (1) Chevy Tahoe for an amount not to exceed $71,868; and authorizing the Director of Finance, or her designee, to issue the Purchase Order; and authorizing the Director of Finance or her designee to execute any Change Orders not to exceed 15% of the total purchase price.
ACTION: (Wright/Escutia-Braaton; 7/0) Resolution 2026-274 approving the Competitive Bidding Process from State of California, Department of General Services to Elk Grove Auto, Elk Grove, CA, for the purchase of one (1) Dodge Durango for an amount not to exceed $51,764, and authorizing the Director of Finance, or her designee, to issue the Purchase Order; and authorizing the Director of Finance or her designee to execute any Change Orders not to exceed 15% of the total purchase price.
ACTION: (Wright/Escutia-Braaton; 7/0) Resolution 2026-275 approving the Competitive Bidding Process from the City of Pasadena, CA to Winner Chevrolet, Sacramento, CA for the purchase of three (3) Chevrolet Traverses for an amount not to exceed $160,990, and authorizing the Director of Finance, or her designee, to issue the Purchase Order; and authorizing the Director of Finance or her designee to execute any Change Orders not to exceed 15% of the total purchase price.
Consent
8. Consider approving the Agreements for the furnishing of Electric Motor Rewind/Rebuild Services to A & J Works, Modesto, CA, and Modesto Industrial Electrical Company, Modesto, CA, for a total combined amount not to exceed $965,098 over five (5) years. (Funding Source: Wastewater, Water and Storm Drain Funds)
• Resolution approving the Award of Bid and Agreements for the furnishing of Electric Motor Rewind/Rebuild Services to A & J Works, Modesto, CA, and Modesto Industrial Electrical Company, Modesto, CA for a two (2) year Agreement with three (3) one-year extension options, for an estimated annual combined amount of $180,000, and a total combined amount not to exceed $965,098, over five (5) years; and authorizing the Director of Finance to adjust agreement totals between vendors based on contractor's availability and department's needs, ensuring the combined total amount does not change and authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to execute the Agreements.
UTILITIES; Jeff Daniels, 209-577-6255, [email protected] ACTION: (Wright/Escutia-Braaton; 7/0) Resolution 2026-276 approving the Award of Bid and Agreements for the furnishing of Electric Motor Rewind/Rebuild Services to A & J Works, Modesto, CA, and Modesto Industrial Electrical Company, Modesto, CA for a two (2) year Agreement with three (3) one-year extension options, for an estimated annual combined amount of $180,000, and a total combined amount not to exceed $965,098, over five (5) years; and authorizing the Director of Finance to adjust agreement totals between vendors based on contractor's availability and - 7 -
8/25/2026 5:30:00 PM
department's needs, ensuring the combined total amount does not change and authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to execute the Agreements.
Consent
9. Consider approving an Agreement with Muniquip LLC., Roseville, CA, for Wemco/Hidrostal pumps, parts and electrical components for a total amount not to exceed $804,248 over five (5) years. (Funding Source: Sewer Operations Fund & Storm Drainage Fund)
• Resolution approving a Sole Source Agreement with Muniquip LLC., Roseville, CA, for Wemco/Hidrostal pumps, parts and electrical components, for a two (2) year Agreement with three (3) one-year extension options, for an annual estimated amount of $150,000, and a total amount not to exceed $804,248, over five (5) years, and authorizing the Director of Finance, or her designee, the ability to add parts based on the department’s needs, ensuring the total amount does not exceed the authorized total, and authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to execute the Agreement.
UTILITIES; Jeff Daniels, 209-577-6255, [email protected] ACTION: (Wright/Escutia-Braaton; 7/0) Resolution 2026-277 approving a Sole Source Agreement with Muniquip LLC., Roseville, CA, for Wemco/Hidrostal pumps, parts and electrical components, for a two (2) year Agreement with three (3) one-year extension options, for an annual estimated amount of $150,000, and a total amount not to exceed $804,248, over five (5) years, and authorizing the Director of Finance, or her designee, the ability to add parts based on the department’s needs, ensuring the total amount does not exceed the authorized total, and authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to execute the Agreement.
COUNCIL COMMENTS & REPORTS
• Councilmember Escutia-Braaton announced the upcoming opening of Green Acres Nursery at the former Toys-R-Us location and welcomed the family-owned business to the community. She also reported attending the graduation of six new Modesto Police Department officers.
• Councilmember Bavaro reported holding a District 4 neighborhood meeting to gather community input regarding data centers. Discussion focused on environmental impacts, noise, water and energy usage, and the potential costs and benefits to Modesto.
• Councilmember Ricci expressed appreciation to staff for efforts to redevelop the former Toys-R-Us property and address other vacant buildings. He also discussed the need for an ordinance addressing e-bikes following recent accidents and thanked Public Works for improvements in downtown Modesto.
• Councilmember Wright reported visiting the 4th Street Park Aquatic Center and praised the facility, its water features, lifeguard staffing, and positive community - 8 -
8/25/2026 5:30:00 PM
response. He expressed interest in developing additional similar facilities throughout Modesto.
• Vice-Mayor Williams expressed appreciation for the comments shared by his fellow Councilmembers and spoke about his upcoming 40th wedding anniversary with his wife, Nancy, on August 27th. He expressed that he was thrilled, humbled, and thankful for his family, shared his love and appreciation for his wife, and noted that they have five grandchildren.
• Councilmember Alvarez highlighted the success and funding of the 4th Street Park Aquatic Center, including state, Measure H, and General Fund contributions, and noted that liability waivers are now available online. He recognized the Modesto Police Department for receiving statewide recognition and highlighted reductions in several major crime categories. He also discussed efforts to establish a separate micropermitting process to support the City's pop-up and small business community. • Mayor Zwahlen reported meeting with students from Modesto's sister city of Kurume, Japan, and with the new California Highway Patrol captain for the Modesto Division.
She also participated in the transition of Fourth of July parade responsibilities from the Kiwanis Club to the Stanislaus Latino Chamber of Commerce, attended a Kaiser Modesto Urgent Care ribbon cutting, and thanked volunteers at the McHenry Mansion and Museum. She announced the upcoming McClure Meadows ribbon cutting and recognized the life and accomplishments of Dolly Parton.
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS & REPORTS
• City Manager Lopez reported that the 4th Street Park is now open and welcoming thousands of visitors. He announced that a pre-registration process will be implemented to help reduce wait times and lines. He also recognized the Modesto Police Department for being named the 2025 Agency of the Year for the Sacramento Region by the FBI National Academy of the California Chapter and praised the department's efforts to reduce crime and fear of crime.
MATTERS TOO LATE FOR THE AGENDA
None.
ADJOURNMENT
This meeting adjourned at 6:23 p.m.
Attest:____________________________
Diane Nayares-Perez, City Clerk