ORANGE COVE CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
September 9, 2026
The Regular Meeting of the Orange Cove City Council was called to order by Mayor Pro Tem Ortiz at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at the Orange Cove Senior Center, 699 6th Street, Orange Cove, California.
Claude AI and Otter Notes were used to prepare these minutes.
1. CALL TO ORDER / WELCOME
ROLL CALL
Council Members Rodriguez, Del Bosque, Casillas, and Mayor Pro Tem Ortiz were present.
ABSENT
Mayor Garcia.
Mayor Garcia was present via Zoom but did not vote (technical issues). Only provided information during Council Communications.
INVOCATION
Leticia Mendoza.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Council Member Rodriguez.
2. CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA
City Manager Escobar confirmed there were no changes to the agenda.
3. PUBLIC COMMENT
Numerous members of the public spoke, primarily regarding the City's recently adopted water and sewer rate increases. Several speakers, including Leticia Mendoza, Isaac Mendoza, Joan Buller, Alma Figueroa, and Estela Juarez (provided information in support of the city regarding Proposition 218), addressed the Council on the size of the increase (described as approximately 62 to 72 percent), its impact on seniors, farm workers, and residents on fixed incomes, and questions regarding oversight of the water/sewer enterprise fund. Multiple Spanish-speaking residents echoed these concerns and asked the Council to revisit the rate structure. A resident and local business owner presented a petition of approximately 25 pages of resident signatures asking the Council to revisit the recent rate increases and improve public notice of rate changes going forward. Several speakers, including Ms. Buller, said they did not receive timely Proposition 218 notice of the rate hearing and suggested the City improve its mailing and notice practices.
Additional public comment, unrelated to the water/sewer rate topic, included: a resident, Susie Antuna’s complaint regarding conditions (encampment activity, debris, and safety concerns) along a walkway/building on Railroad Avenue formerly owned by the City; Gail Dahl, on behalf of the Library, announcing fall library programming, including a September 17 history presentation, a September 24 family event, upcoming Halloween and Veterans Day events, and Library Card Sign-Up Month; and Gloria Mejorado, President of the Orange Cove Lions Club, thanking the Council and requesting additional signage recognizing the Lions Club within the City.
Having reached the 15-minute limit on the water/sewer rate topic, the Mayor Pro Tem asked whether any additional public comment remained on other topics; hearing none further, public comment was closed.
PRESENTATION
4. The Hulsey Network — Presentation by Journey Hulsey.
Journey Hulsey, representing The Hulsey Network, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in the Tulare County area, presented the organization's services for underserved and marginalized communities, including a 24-hour clothing closet, the "Outreach 559" program providing case management, community referrals, and resource navigation, community HIV/STD testing and health education events, peer support groups, and an annual back-to-school resource event. Ms. Hulsey requested Council consideration of dedicated office space within the City's community resource center in order to expand weekend services in Orange Cove, including clothing distribution, diaper and food pantry distribution, and transportation assistance, and stated the goal was to complement, not replace, existing City and community programs.
No action was taken; the item was informational.
CONSENT CALENDAR
5. Approval of Minutes of Regular Meeting of Orange Cove City Council on August 26, 2026.
6. Approval of Minutes of Special Meeting of Orange Cove City Council on August 31, 2026.
Action: Motion was made by Council Member Del Bosque to approve the Consent Calendar and seconded by Council Member Rodriguez. The motion carried as follows:
AYES: 4 COUNCIL MEMBERS: Del Bosque, Rodriguez, Casillas, Ortiz NOES: 0 COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
ABSTAIN: 0 COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: 1 COUNCIL MEMBERS: Garcia
REGULAR BUSINESS
Administration Department — City Manager Escobar
7. SUBJECT: Consideration to authorize the use of the Orange Cove Community Center and waive associated rental fees for a resource fair, as requested by the Hulsey Network on October 24, 2026.
City Manager Escobar presented the Hulsey Network's request. In response to questions, Ms. Hulsey clarified that HIV/STD testing is conducted through client intake forms with assistance from a partnering clinic in Visalia. Mayor Pro Tem Ortiz noted a scheduling conflict, as the requested date coincides with Orange Cove High School's band review, which draws significant traffic and parking demand near the Community Center. City Manager Escobar noted the City typically partners with the high school on parking for large events and recommended the Council approve the request with the specific date to be coordinated between staff and the applicant. The Hulsey Network also inquired about the process for requesting dedicated office space; staff advised that current community center space is fully utilized by other programs (Proteus, the Downtown Business and Tourism Advisory Committee, the Arts Council, and Sandy's Soup Kitchen storage) and that such a request would need to be agendized separately.
Action: Motion was made by Council Member Rodriguez to approve the use of the Community Center and waiver of the associated rental fees, with the specific date to be coordinated by staff, and seconded by Council Member Casillas. The motion carried as follows:
AYES: 4 COUNCIL MEMBERS: Rodriguez, Casillas, Del Bosque, Ortiz NOES: 0 COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
ABSTAIN: 0 COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: 1 COUNCIL MEMBERS: Garcia
REGULAR BUSINESS
Engineering Department — City Engineer Muniz
8. SUBJECT: Adoption of a Resolution Amending Section 7 of Resolution No. 2026-33 to Reset the Public Hearing on the Establishment of Community Facilities District No. 2026-1 (Public Facilities Maintenance District No. 1) to October 14, 2026, and Directing Republication of Notice.
City Engineer Muniz explained that Government Code Section 53325 requires the public hearing on establishment of a Community Facilities District to be held not less than 30 nor more than 90 days after adoption of the resolution of intention, and that the hearing date set in Section 7 of Resolution No. 2026- 33 fell short of the required 30-day minimum. Staff recommended the Council adopt Resolution No. 2026-36 to reset the public hearing to October 14, 2026, at 6:30 p.m., and to direct republication of the hearing as reset.
Action: Motion was made by Del Bosque to adopt Resolution No. 2026-36, amending Section 7 of Resolution No. 2026-33 to reset the public hearing to October 14, 2026, and directing republication of notice, and seconded by Council Member Casillas. The motion carried as follows:
AYES: 4 COUNCIL MEMBERS: Del Bosque, Casillas, Rodriguez, Ortiz, NOES: 0 COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
ABSTAIN: 0 COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: 1 COUNCIL MEMBERS: Garcia
REGULAR BUSINESS (No Action — Informational Only)
Administration and Engineering Departments — City Manager Escobar, City Engineer Muniz
9. Department of Water Resources — Small Community Drought Relief Grant No. 4600014544, $5.9 million grant extension.
City Engineer Muniz reported that this previously awarded grant, which had lapsed after expiring in April 2026, was reinstated for a two-year extension request; the City has received an extension to April 1, 2027, giving the City roughly six months to complete remaining construction. The project scope includes a new groundwater well, a new one-million-gallon storage tank, a booster pump station, and replacement of water mains, creating a looped water distribution system on the west side of town (Munson, Martinez, and surrounding areas). City Manager Escobar added that staff worked with the Department of Water Resources and State Senator Anna Caballero's office to secure the extension, and that the City is pursuing a new well capable of 500 to 1,000 gallons per minute to establish a secondary water source and reduce reliance on surface water. In response to a public question regarding whether this grant could offset the proposed utility rate increases, City Manager Escobar clarified that this project does not address the current capital improvement items driving the rate increases at the treatment plant but supports separate water infrastructure and reliability needs.
10. State Water Resources Control Board, Office of Sustainable Water Solutions — Water Treatment Plant Improvements Construction, Application No. 1010023-004C, and City of Orange Cove Water Supply Reliability Project, Application No. 1010023-006P, Planning Application.
City Engineer Muniz reported that this application had been held pending completion of the City's water rate study and related audits. The project scope includes decommissioning the 1974 Plant A and constructing a new package treatment Plant C, a new raw water intake screen, raw and filtered water pumps, booster pump replacement, and electrical and control system upgrades. City Manager Escobar added that the project (estimated at $8 to $12 million) would replace outdated SCADA/alarm systems that currently require costly overtime staffing, create redundancy for pumps that currently have none, and support compliance with drinking water standards, while helping to hold future rate increases in check; he noted the Council had already reduced the originally proposed rate increase from 50 percent to 25 percent for the first year. Public comment on this item included requests for improved Spanish-language translation of technical presentations and clarification of the 25 percent versus 50 percent rate figures, as well as concerns, including from Joan Bullard, regarding late receipt of Proposition 218 notice.
11. Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) Application No. 5D100110001 — Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrades and Tertiary Treatment Implementation.
City Engineer Muniz reported that this application, seeking approximately $13 million in combined grant and low-interest financing (including approximately $10.3 million for construction), had also been held pending completion of the water/sewer audits and rate study. The project scope includes tertiary treatment upgrades and effluent recycling at the wastewater treatment plant, a filter pump station, hypochlorite feed and chemical storage, rehabilitation of the Orange Cove Irrigation District pump station, an effluent storage pond on City property, conveyance piping to the Irrigation District, and related electrical and control work, intended to produce recycled water suitable for agricultural irrigation, reduce reliance on surface water, and improve effluent disposal. City Manager Escobar added that this project is tied to the sewer rate study, which the Council is expected to revisit around April 2027 once revenue data is available.
12. Round 5 of the State's Statewide Park Development and Community Revitalization Program (SPP) to build a new community pool at the Orange Cove Community Center.
City Engineer Muniz presented this as an informational item to solicit public input for a competitive grant application, noting that five community engagement events are planned across groups including the Senior Center, the high school, and the Boys and Girls Club to help identify priority amenities. Public comment included a resident recalling that a previous community pool had been vandalized and asking how a new pool would be protected, and comments from student Matthew Marez and another resident expressing concern about the lack of Spanish-language translation for the presentation and questioning whether a pool should be prioritized over water infrastructure needs given ongoing drought conditions.
Public Comment was made pertaining to agenda items 9 through 12.
PUBLIC HEARING
Finance Department — Director Jimenez
13. SUBJECT: Adoption of Resolution No. 2026-35 Approving the Updated City of Orange Cove Master Fee Schedule.
Director Jimenez presented the proposed update to the City's Master Fee Schedule, last approved in 2021, to add fees for encroachment permits issued by the Public Works Department and for Parks and Recreation Department programs, facility rentals, services, and youth sports registration. The public hearing was opened at 7:40 p.m.; there was no public comment, and the hearing was closed at 7:41 p.m.
Action: Motion was made by Council Member Casillas to adopt Resolution No. 2026-35, approving the updated Master Fee Schedule, and seconded by Council Member Rodriguez. The motion carried as follows:
AYES: 4 COUNCIL MEMBERS: Casillas, Rodriguez, Del Bosque, Ortiz NOES: 0 COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
ABSTAIN: 0 COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: 1 COUNCIL MEMBERS: Garcia
REGULAR BUSINESS
Community Development Department — Director Patlan
14. SUBJECT: Appeal of Planning Commission Decision Denying Conditional Use Permit No. 2026-01 for a Recycling Collection Facility.
Director Patlan presented background on the application [Note to Clerk: applicant's name was not clearly audible in the recording — please confirm spelling from the appeal packet] for a Conditional Use Permit to operate a recycling collection (CRV) facility, including installation of a storage container, at the corner of Anchor Avenue and Martinez Avenue in the C-3 zoning district, where the use is conditionally permitted. On August 11, 2026, the Planning Commission denied the CUP after determining it could not make the required finding that the use, as proposed, would not be detrimental to public health, safety, and welfare, based on (1) traffic and pedestrian safety concerns on Anchor Avenue, a heavily traveled route near the high school with an existing three-way stop, and (2) the applicant's failure to demonstrate restroom facilities for employees and the public. The applicant timely filed an appeal. Staff noted that alternative sites exist within the City's M-1 (light industrial) zone, which requires only site plan approval, and that another applicant is separately pursuing a CUP for a similar use in a less commercially concentrated area.
The applicant addressed the Council regarding project timing constraints tied to a state deadline (with approximately four months remaining), and, in response to Council questions, stated that no alternative site had been identified. A Council Member raised concern regarding the lack of restroom facilities.
Public Comment: A resident spoke in opposition, citing traffic and pedestrian safety concerns on Anchor Avenue, limited on-site parking further constrained by an incoming grocery store, and the lack of restroom facilities, and suggested the applicant pursue an alternative site.
Public Comment was made.
Action: Motion was made by Council Member Del Bosque to deny the appeal and uphold the Planning Commission's decision denying Conditional Use Permit No. 2026-01, and seconded by Council Member Casillas. The motion carried as follows:
AYES: 4 COUNCIL MEMBERS: Del Bosque, Casillas, Rodriguez, Ortiz NOES: 0 COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
ABSTAIN: 0 COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: 1 COUNCIL MEMBERS: Garcia
15. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
City Manager Escobar reported on the City's ongoing response to homelessness, including continued coordination with Fresno County to extend outreach services to rural communities. Staff, working with the County, made contact with two individuals at an encampment near a stormwater pond basin behind Dollar General, connected them with services as required by state law prior to site clearing, and cleaned the site; two additional camp sites in the same area are targeted for future outreach and cleanup, particularly given nearby new single-family home development. A staff "homeless task force" (Public Works, Police, and Community Development) continues this work in coordination with the County. City Manager Escobar also reported that the City's economic development consultant, Capital Rivers Connect, continues to pursue commercial retail recruitment for sites near Burger King and the Giannis property, and will represent the City at the ICSC San Diego retail conference to pursue additional retailer interest.
16. CITY ATTORNEY'S REPORT
Nothing to report.
17. CITY COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS
Mayor Garcia, participating via Zoom, thanked Mayor Pro Tem Ortiz for serving in his stead during his medical leave and thanked the community for their prayers and well wishes, stating he hopes to return for the next meeting.
Council Member Del Bosque thanked students in attendance and addressed the recent water and sewer rate increases, describing the City's efforts to secure grant funding — including the reinstated $5.9 million DWR grant and a pending application for approximately $12 million in wastewater funding — to help offset infrastructure costs, characterized the increases as resulting from deferred maintenance and administrative turnover under prior administrations, and offered to meet individually with residents to discuss concerns.
Council Member Casillas thanked the public for attending and expressed appreciation for the level of community engagement at the meeting.
Mayor Pro Tem Ortiz thanked the public for their comments, noted that multiple public meetings had previously been held on the water/sewer rate study, and addressed a request for expanded Spanishlanguage interpretation at Council meetings, noting she understands spoken Spanish but is not fully fluent in responding and offered to use translation tools going forward. Mayor Pro Tem Ortiz also announced the City of Orange Cove Halloween Trunk-or-Treat event on Saturday, October 31, 2026, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m., requesting community volunteers to host vehicles/trunks and donations of candy, and previewed upcoming Thanksgiving and Christmas parade events.
18. CLOSED SESSION
The Council recessed to Closed Session at 8:07 p.m. to discuss the following matter:
Conference with Legal Counsel — Anticipated Litigation; significant exposure to litigation pursuant to Government Code § 54956.9(b): 1 case.
The City Council reconvened the Open Session at 8:19 p.m. There was no reportable action.
19. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:20 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
_______________________________ _______________________________ Cynthia Cisneros, City Clerk Castan Ortiz, Mayor Pro Tem For the Meeting of September 23, 2026
CITY OF ORANGE COVE
REPORT TO THE CITY COUNCIL
To: Orange Cove City Council
From: Nick Matoian, City Attorney
Subject: Second Reading and Public Hearing on Ordinance No. 406, Amending Municipal Code Chapter 5.28 Related to Bingo.
Attachments: Ordinance No. 406
Public Hearing
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that the City Council hold the second reading of Ordinance No. 406, followed by a public hearing, and adopt Ordinance No. 406, amending Municipal Code Chapter 5.28 relating to Bingo.
BACKGROUND:
The City of Orange Cove currently does not allow cash prize Bingo at the Senior Center.
California law permits Bingo to be played for cash prizes within a local jurisdiction provided that jurisdiction's Municipal Code authorizes it and specific statutory requirements are met. Orange Cove's Municipal Code currently addresses Bingo only minimally and does not reflect these requirements.
At the July 22 meeting, the City Council directed staff to amend the Municipal Code to establish a licensing program for Bingo within City limits. The proposed ordinance would allow Bingo to be played not only at the Senior Center but at any location within the City where a license is obtained and the Code's requirements are satisfied, and it has been drafted to comply with current California law governing Bingo.
On August 26, 2026, legal counsel presented the proposed ordinance to the Council, which would allow licensed nonprofit organizations, including the Senior Center, to host cash prize Bingo. The Council held the first reading of the ordinance and approved it, with the ordinance to return for a second reading and public hearing prior to adoption.
FISCAL IMPACT:
None
CONFLICT OF INTEREST:
None.
Prepared by: Cynthia Cisneros, City Clerk Approved by: Samuel A. Escobar REVIEW: Nick Matoian Finance: _______ City Attorney: ______ TYPE OF ITEM: COUNCIL ACTION: • APPROVED • DENIED • NO ACTION Consent
Info Item
_ Action Item
Department Report
Redevelopment Agency
X Public Hearing
Matter Initiated by a Council Member
Other
Continued to: __________
ORDINANCE NO. 406
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF ORANGE COVE AMENDING
CHAPTER 5.28, RELATING TO BINGO, OF THE CITY OF ORANGE
COVE MUNICIPAL CODE.
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ORANGE COVE DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. Amendment of Entire Chapter. Chapter 5.28 of the Orange Cove Municipal Code is amended to read as follows:
Chapter 5.28 - BINGO GAMES
5.28.010 - Bingo games authorized. Purpose.
A. Bingo games are authorized within the city and may be conducted only by those organizations qualifying under Section 326.5 of the Penal Code or as subsequently amended.
B. The games shall be conducted in accordance with and subject to all of the conditions imposed by the penal code as amended. It is the purpose of this chapter to authorize the playing of the game of chance generally known as "bingo" subject to and pursuant to the restrictions contained in Article IV, Section 19c of the Constitution of the state of California, and Section 326.5 of the Penal Code of the state. Definitions, conditions and restrictions set forth in this chapter are intended to comply with and implement the constitutional and Penal Code provisions. To the extent that any provision of this chapter is substantially the same as that contained in Section 326.5 of the Penal Code and violation thereof is deemed a violation of the Penal Code and punishable thereunder, such provisions of this chapter shall be deemed explanatory only.
5.28.020 – Definitions.
"Bingo" means a game of chance in which prizes are awarded on the basis of designated numbers or symbols on a card which conform to numbers or symbols selected at random. "Church" means any organized religious group of any denomination with an organized governing body, ministry, membership and a fixed place of worship at which regular meetings of religious services are held.
"License collector" means the city clerk of the city of Orange Cove, California. "Nonprofitable charitable organization" means any church or other nonprofit charitable organization exempted from the payment of bank and corporation taxes by Section 231(d) of the Revenue and Taxation Code and a contribution or gift to which would be a charitable contribution under Section 170(c)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code (1954).
5.28.030 – Bingo permitted.
2 A nonprofit charitable organization having in effect a license therefor from the license collector pursuant to the provisions of this chapter may conduct a bingo game for charitable purposes subject to all conditions and restrictions contained in Section 326.5 of the Penal Code of the state, and this chapter.
5.28.040 – License Application.
A nonprofit charitable organization may apply to the license collector for a license to conduct a bingo game. The application shall be upon forms provided therefor by the license collector, or in writing containing all the information called for in Section 5.12.050 and satisfactory to the license collector, and shall be accompanied by a nonreturnable fee as may be determined from time to time by the city council and established by resolution thereof. If the applicant is a church, it shall provide proof to the satisfaction of the license collector that it comes within the definition of a church, as defined in Section 5.24.020. If the applicant is other than a church, it shall accompany the application with a certificate or letter from the State Franchise Tax Board stating that the applicant is exempt from the payment of the bank and franchise tax, and from the Internal Revenue Service stating that it is a charitable organization to which a gift would be a charitable contribution under Section 170(c)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954.
5.28.050 – Content of application.
A. The application for a license for conducting bingo games shall contain the following:
1. The name of the organization, together with the names, signatures and addresses of all the officers of the organization and that the applicant is an eligible organization pursuant to the provisions of this chapter;
2. The address of the premises where the bingo game is proposed to be conducted;
3. A statement of the ownership or lessor and lessee of the premises;
4. Principal purpose for which the premises are used by the organization, together with the length of time for which the premises have been so used;
5. Name and address of the person responsible for the operation of the bingo game and those persons assisting therein;
6. Days and hours of proposed operation of bingo games;
7. Such further information as may be required by the license collector.
B. Said application shall be signed by the principal officer of the applicant under penalty of perjury.
5.28.060 – Consent to investigation.
The filing of an application for a license shall be deemed a consent by the applicant for the chief of police to make an investigation to determine if all the statements on the application are true and to investigate the officers of the applicant and the person who will be responsible for the operation of the bingo game and those persons assisting therein as to any criminal record which they may have, and to disclose the same to the license collector and the city council upon an appropriate hearing. The application shall also be deemed consent for the planning and development department, the fire chief and the public works department of the city to inspect the 3 premises and report thereon of any violations of law or other conditions which might endanger the public health, safety and well-being.
5.28.070 – Denial of License.
In the event the chief of police, planning and development director, director of public works or fire chief recommend against the issuance of the license, due to being out of conformance with state law/city ordinance, or determined to be in the best interest of the city, the license collector shall refuse to issue such license.
5.28.080 – Appeal.
In the event the license collector refuses to issue such license or attaches conditions thereto recommended by the chief of police, the planning and development director, director of public works or fire chief, the applicant may, within ten (10) days after the notice is given of such refusal or such conditions, appeal the same to the city council, who shall hold a hearing thereon and whose decision shall be final. The city council may attach additional conditions to the license found by it to be necessary to protect the public health, safety and well-being.
5.28.090 – Issuance of License.
In the event the license collector does not receive a recommendation against the issuance of the license, he/she shall issue the same for a period of one year, which license shall contain the following information:
A. The name and nature of the organization to whom the license is issued; B. The address where the bingo games are authorized to be conducted; C. The maximum occupancy of the room in which the bingo games are to be conducted; D. The date of the expiration of the license;
E. The days and hours during which bingo may be conducted; F. Such conditions as may have been recommended by the chief of police, planning and development director, director of public works or fire official.
5.28.100 – Posting of license.
A licensee shall keep the license posted in a conspicuous place within the room in which bingo is being played during the conduct of any such game. The licensee shall produce and exhibit the same whenever requested to do so by any peace officer, director of public works or fire official.
5.28.110 – Conditions of operation.
It is unlawful for any bingo game to be operated in violation of any of the following conditions:
A. No minors shall be allowed to participate in any bingo game; B. All bingo games shall be open to the public, not just to the members of the nonprofit charitable organization except as otherwise provided in this chapter; C. No person shall be allowed to participate in a bingo game unless the person is physically present at the time and place in which the bingo game is being conducted; 4 D. The total value of prizes awarded during the conduct of any bingo games shall not exceed two hundred fifty dollars ($250.00) in cash or kind, or both, for each separate game which is held;
E. Attendance at any bingo game shall be limited to the occupancy capacity of the room as set forth in the license;
F. No licensee shall issue chips or money to a patron on credit or a loan, including but not limited to IOU's and checks to be held, nor shall patrons be allowed to play on credit; G. No person who is obviously intoxicated shall be allowed to participate in a bingo game;
H. Any condition attached to the license;
I. The licensee shall post and keep posted in a conspicuous place within the room in which bingo is being played the rules and regulations of the game; J. Conduct any bingo game after the license therefor has expired or during any period which it is suspended.
5.28.120 – Records.
Each licensee conducting a bingo game shall maintain detailed records of all profits, expenditures, prizes and other expenses relating to the operation of the bingo game. Such records shall be retained for a period of three years and as long thereafter as may be required by any state or federal law. Such records, including related bank accounts, shall be open for inspection at any time by the chief of police, city clerk of the city, or any state or federal official in the performance of his/her duties.
5.28.130 – Changes in conditions.
Any change during the license period in the organization of the licensee, its principal officers, or the condition of the premises shall be immediately reported to the license collector who shall refer such changes to the appropriate official who shall make an investigation thereof and, if he/she deems appropriate, recommend the suspension and revocation of the license or the imposition of additional conditions thereto, which suspension, revocation or additional conditions shall be appealable to the city council as in the instance of an original application.
5.28.140 – License nontransferable.
Any license granted under this chapter shall not be transferable either as to the licensee or the location. Any attempt to transfer shall render the license invalid.
5.28.150 – Suspension or revocation.
Any license issued under this chapter shall be immediately suspended by the license collector upon the recommendation of either the chief of police, the health officer, the director of public works or the fire official, which recommendation must be based upon either violation of this chapter by the licensee or the discovery of some condition which would have caused a recommendation to have been made against the issuance of the license. Such suspension shall result in the automatic revocation of the license fifteen (15) days after the notice thereof unless 5 within ten (10) days after the receipt of such notice the licensee appeals the suspension and revocation to the city council. In the event of such appeal, the city council shall hold a public hearing thereon and its decision shall be final. The suspension shall remain in effect pending decision by the city council.
5.28.160 – Renewal.
A licensee desiring to continue the conducting of a bingo game shall, at least thirty (30) days before the expiration of the license, make application to the license collector for a renewal. The application for renewal shall be accompanied by the fee, proofs, and be processed in all respects as an original application.
5.28.170 – Exceptions.
Provisions of this chapter, including the requirement to obtain a license, shall not be applicable to those bingo games limited to members only.
SECTION 2. Severability. If any part of this Ordinance is held to be invalid for any reason, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance, and the City Council hereby declares that it would have passed the remainder of this Ordinance, as if such invalid portion thereof had been deleted.
SECTION 3. This ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days after its passage.
SECTION 4. The City Clerk is hereby ordered and directed to certify the passage of this Ordinance and to cause the same to be published once in a newspaper of general circulation, published in the County of Fresno.
I, Cynthia Cisneros, City Clerk for the City of Orange Cove do hereby certify that the foregoing Ordinance was introduced at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Orange Cove held on the 26th day of August of 2026, and passed and adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council held on the ___ day of ____________ 2026, by the following vote, to wit:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS:
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS:
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS:
ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBERS:
(Signatures on following page)
6 ________________________________
Gilbert Garcia
Mayor
ATTEST:
____________________________________
Cynthia Cisneros
City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
____________________________________
Megan N. Crouch
City Attorney
CITY OF ORANGE COVE
633 6th St., Orange Cove, California 93646
- NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING -
City of Orange Cove City Council
Notice is hereby given that the Orange Cove City Council will hold a public hearing for the following:
Ordinance No. 406, Amending Municipal Code Chapter 5.28 Related to Bingo The public hearing is scheduled for September 23, 2026, at 6:30 p.m., or shortly thereafter.
The public hearing will be held at the Orange Cove City Council Chambers at 633 6th Street, Orange Cove, CA. 93646.
The public and interested parties may provide oral testimony regarding the proposed amendment at the hearing.
For further information, please contact the City Clerk's Office at 559-626-4488, ext. 213.
Cynthia Cisneros, City Clerk
Date: September 1, 2026
For the Meeting of September 23, 2026
CITY OF ORANGE COVE
REPORT TO CITY COUNCIL
TO: Orange Cove City Council
FROM: Danny Jimenez, Finance Director
SUBJECT: Public Hearing for the close-out of the 22-CDBG-HA-10026 Owner Occupied Rehabilitation Programs
RECOMMENDATION:
That the City Council accepts and approves the close-out report on the 2022-CDBG Owner Occupied Rehabilitation (22-CDBG-HA-10026) Program.
BACKGROUND:
The City was awarded $500,000 in CDBG funding in September 2023 in response to the 2022 CDBG NOFA application. Program clearance was received on October 10, 2023, to begin accepting applications and providing services.
The Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation Program provided deferred, zero-interest, loans to incomeeligible owner-occupants (households at or below 80 percent of the Area Median Income) within the City of Orange Cove to complete emergency, minor, and substantial rehabilitation activities that addressed health and safety hazards, housing code deficiencies, and essential repairs, including roofing, plumbing, electrical, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), windows, and flooring.
The program was originally anticipated to assist four beneficiaries; however, only one owneroccupied rehabilitation loan was completed during the grant period. The reduction was due to limited eligible applicants, program demand, and projects that could be completed within program requirements and funding limits. Reasonable efforts were made to identify and assist eligible households. Loans were provided as follows:
Loan # Amount Description of Project
Loan # Amount Description of Project
1 $16,098.20 Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation Loan
TOTAL $16,098.20
Budget Total Expenses Disencumbered Funds
Total Admin (OOR): $ 32,710 $32,688.22 $ 21.78
Total Loans (OOR): $467,290____ $68,715.03*______ $398,574.97__________ Total Award: $500,000 $101,403.25 $398,596.75
*Includes activity delivery cost plus rehabilitation loan The grant expired on October 9, 2026 - upon approval, the City’s grant administrator Self-Help Enterprises will submit the final closeout documents to CA Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD). The City will disencumber the remaining funds of $398,596.75 (Remaining funds were committed to an applicant late in the grant term who then became ineligible for the program).
CONFLICT OF INTEREST:
None.
FISCAL IMPACT:
None.
Prepared by: Terry Solis Approved by: Samuel A. Escobar REVIEW: Samuel A. Escobar Finance: _______ City Attorney: ______ TYPE OF ITEM: COUNCIL ACTION: ☐ APPROVED ☐ DENIED ☐ NO
ACTION
_____ Consent ___X_ Public Hearing
_____ Info Item _____ Matter Initiated by a Council Member _____ Action Item _____ Other
_____ Department Report _____ Continued to: _________
_____ Redevelopment Agency
Notice of Public Meeting on the Status of CDBG Funded Activities NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Orange Cove will hold a public hearing on September 23, 2026, at 6:30 pm or as soon thereafter as possible at the Orange Cove Senior Center, 699 Sixth Street, Orange Cove, CA 93464. The purpose of the hearing will be to discuss the 22-CDBG-HA-10026 Grant closeout. The project is being funded through a Community Development Block Grant provided by the California Housing and Community Development Authority.
The following information related to the project is available at 633 Sixth Street, Orange Cove, CA 93464 between the hours of 8:00 am - 5:00 pm on Monday - Friday or by emailing the contact listed below:
A. Project progress/status of completion and expected timeframe to completion B. Results to date and projected totals, such as number of beneficiaries assisted, or persons served.
C. Funds expended, balance of funds available, and budget expectations to completion.
All persons interested in the status of funding or the progress of the project are welcome to attend this meeting. Written comments can be directed to the City of Orange Cove, at 633 Sixth Street, Orange Cove, CA 93464, or you may contact Jennifer Hernandez by telephone or email at 559-626-4488, [email protected] no later than 5:00pm on September 22, 2026, to ensure placement in the official record of the hearing.
The City of Orange Cove does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identify, age, religion or disability. If you require specific accommodation to participate in the public hearing, please contact Jennifer Hernandez at least 2 days prior to the scheduled hearing.
Aviso de reunión pública sobre el estado de las actividades financiadas por CDBG POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA que la Ciudad de Orange Cove llevará a cabo una audiencia pública el 23 de septiembre a las 6:30 p.m., o tan pronto como sea posible después de dicha hora, en las Centro de Personas Mayores de Orange Cove, ubicadas en 699 Sixth Street, Orange Cove, CA 93464. El propósito de esta audiencia será tratar el cierre de la Subvención 22-CDBG-HA-10026. Este proyecto está financiado mediante una Subvención en Bloque para el Desarrollo Comunitario (CDBG) otorgada por el Departamento de Vivienda y Desarrollo Comunitario de California.
La siguiente información relacionada con el proyecto estará disponible en 633 Sixth Street, Orange Cove, CA 93464, en horario de 8:00 a. m. a 5:00 p. m., de lunes a viernes, o mediante solicitud por correo electrónico al contacto indicado más abajo:
A. Progreso del proyecto/estado de finalización y plazo estimado para su conclusión.
B. Resultados a la fecha y totales proyectados, tales como el número de beneficiarios asistidos o personas atendidas.
C. Fondos desembolsados, saldo de fondos disponibles y proyecciones presupuestarias hasta la finalización.
Todas las personas interesadas en el estado del financiamiento o en el progreso del proyecto están cordialmente invitadas a asistir a esta audiencia. Los comentarios por escrito podrán dirigirse a la Ciudad de Orange Cove, 633 Sixth Street, Orange Cove, CA 93464, o bien comunicándose con Jennifer Hernández por teléfono o correo electrónico al at 559-626-4488, [email protected], a más tardar a las 5:00 p. m. del 22 de septiembre a fin de asegurar su inclusión en el registro oficial de la audiencia.
La Ciudad de Orange Cove no discrimina por motivos de raza, color, origen nacional, sexo, orientación sexual, identidad de género, edad, religión o discapacidad. Si requiere adaptaciones específicas para participar en la audiencia pública, deberá comunicarse con Jennifer Hernández al menos dos (2) días antes de la fecha programada de la audiencia.
To:
From:
Subject:
Attachments:
For the Meeting of September 23, 2026
CITY OF ORANGE COVE
REPORT TO THE CITY COUNCIL
Orange Cove City Council
Shun Patlan, Community Development Directo,
Hearing To Consider Declaration of Public Nuisance and Abatement Order for 1) Unpermitted Structures and 2) Accumulation of Junk/Debris/Discarded Household Items
Copy of Correspondence to Property Owner(s)
Photos of Public Nuisance at 454 8
th Street
Resolution 2026-37
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that the City Council conduct a public hearing to consider any objections to the declaration of a public nuisance and consider adopting Resolution No. 2026-35 ordering the abatement of the public nuisance. The City Council may elect abatement by:
1. Abatement by Private Contractor or:
2. Abatement by Public Works Crews
BACKGROUND:
Staff receive various complaints from the public regarding the condition of the property located at 454 8
th Street, Orange Cove. City ordinances exist to address health and safety issues pertaining to public nuisances and unpermitted and/or illegal buildings by administering and enforcing abatement of such public nuisances. Property owners who are found to be in violation of city ordinances are notified of their responsibility to remove public nuisances and unpermitted structures within certain time limits. This process plays a crucial role in maintaining the city's Health and Safety of the community.
The city's past efforts to obtain compliance through the various administrative remedies (registered letters) to the property owner(s) proved to be unsuccessful.
The attachment referred to as Exhibit "A" provides a description of the property owner and the parcel that remain in violation of the Orange Cove Municipal code, Chapter 7.27, Section
7.27.101,"C" and the Uniform Building Code, Chapter 1, Section 105.1. As required by city code, property owner(s) were notified by certified mail of the proposed abatement action and scheduled hearing. Staff have not received any appeal request(s) from the property owner to date. 1 of 2
Prepared By:
5�
Community Development Director
REVIEW City Manager:--�- Finance: ___ _ City Attorney: ___ _ TYPE OF ITEM:
Consent
Info Item
__ Action Item
__ Department Report
__ Redevelopment Agency
COUNCIL ACTION: APPROVED DENIED NO ACTION
3 of 2
_x_ Public Hearing
__ Matter Initiated by a Council Member
Other
Continued to: -----