ALL TO ORDER
The meeting was called to order by Mayor Matt Romano at 6:00 PM.
ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present: Councilmembers John McDermott, Terrie Barr, Vice Mayor JC Tolle and Mayor Matt Romano
Councilmembers Absent: None
Staff Present: City Manager Joe Goodman, City Attorney Scott Drexel, City Clerk Jennifer Schmitke, Labor Negotiations Attorney Greg Einhorn Arrived at 6:30 pm: Police Chief Joe Vlach, City Engineer Paul Rabo, City Planner Lisa Lozier
CITIZENS COMMENTS ON CLOSED SESSION - None
MEETING ADJOURNED TO CLOSED SESSION AT 6:02 PM.
CLOSED SESSION ENDED AND RECONVENED TO REGULAR SESSION AT 6:30 PM.
REPORT FROM CLOSED SESSION - Mayor Romano announced that Council met with City Staff and City Attorneys Scott Drexel and Greg Einhorn in Closed Session to Conference with Legal Counsel-initiation of litigation and Conference with Labor Negotiators, as noted on the Closed Session agenda, Mayor Romano shared that there was no reportable action.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ORAL AND WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
Orland resident Earl Megginson requested an update on the DWR water tank project and its finances.
Mayor Romano provided a brief response and noted that the most recent staff update occurred in September, adding that he would review those meeting minutes for additional details.
Valerie Johnson, a county resident and representative of Hidden Treasures Cat Sanctuary, thanked the community for supporting the organization’s recent grand opening. She provided a brief clinic update, reiterated her interest in partnering with the City on a voucher program, and noted that Hidden Treasures continues to offer food support for cats in need.
ORLAND CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING
Tuesday, November 18, 2025
Orland resident Byron Denton expressed concern that the Carnegie Center remains inaccessible under ADA standards and encouraged the City to consider installing a lift.
County resident Yvonna Bennett spoke regarding public records requests and raised concerns about her personal information.
Scott Howard, a Butte County resident and Orland property owner, voiced concerns about increased maintenance assessment fees on his county tax bill and asked the Council to consider options for a discount or deferral.
Jake Hackett addressed issues of fair representation and voting rights, requesting that the City place a discussion on at-large versus district elections on a future agenda.
Orland resident Michaela Ponce also spoke in support of the City moving forward with district elections.
CONSENT CALENDAR
A. Warrant List from November 4, 2025 (Payable Obligations) B. Warrant List from November 18, 2025 (Payable Obligations) C. Approve City Council Minutes from October 21, 2025
D. Receive and File Recreation Commission Minutes from August 27, 2025 E. Receive and File Arts Commission Minutes from September 17, 2025 F. Consideration of Caltrans FY 2026-2027 Sustainable Transportation Planning Grant G. Consider awarding a construction contract for the Orland Fire Station roof project H. Annual Review and Possible Adjustment to Water and Sewer Rates I. Consider Solid Waste Collection Rate Annual Adjustment Mr. Denton requested clarification regarding the City’s water and sewer rate adjustments. Mr. Rabo explained that the City reviews these rates annually and, in accordance with the Municipal Code, may increase them by up to the Consumer Price Index (CPI). Based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the allowable increase for this year is 4.6%. He noted that this adjustment is necessary to support daily operations, ongoing maintenance, and future capital improvement needs.
Mayor Romano asked about the $50,000 reimbursement to the Orland Volunteer Fire Department and whether supporting documentation was available. City Manager Joe Goodman reported that, according to Chief Chaney, the reimbursement reflects subsidies historically provided. Mr. Goodman shared that Chief Chaney will be providing backup for this reimbursement. Councilmember McDermott added that the all-volunteer fire department relies heavily on personal funds for tools and personal vehicle use/fuel, which the subsidy helps offset.
Councilmember Barr also spoke with Mr. Rabo regarding the water and sewer rate increase.
ACTION: Councilmember McDermott moved, seconded by Vice Mayor Tolle, to approve the consent calendar. Motion carried by a voice vote 4-0.
PRESENTATIONS
A. Caltrans Presentation: Newville Road / Walker Street – Complete Street Improvements From I-5 to County Road N
City Engineer Paul Rabo updated the Council on the 2017 Walker Street Streetscape Master Plan, which proposes pedestrian, bike, landscaping, and lighting improvements from 2nd to 6th Streets. He reported that Caltrans is preparing a Capital Maintenance Project (03-0J500) on Newville Road and Walker Street (I-5 to Sacramento River) to rehabilitate pavement and drainage and upgrade ADA pedestrian facilities, scheduled for advertising in 2025/26. Mr. Rabo explained that in 2026 Caltrans will begin Complete Streets projects.
Caltrans Project Manager Julio Torreiro-Casal presented the future Complete Streets Project (03- 1N200), which includes sidewalk rehabilitation, closing gaps, bike lanes, ADA-compliant facilities, pavement and drainage upgrades, wayfinding signage, and intersection improvements at 9th Street.
The City’s Streetscape Plan has been submitted for potential inclusion, and a public feedback link is available on the City website.
Councilmembers asked several questions about the project and expressed concerns regarding potential tree removal, the proposed location of the roundabout, and the loss of parking along SR-32 within the project area. Council noted the importance of minimizing impacts on downtown businesses.
Mr. Torreiro-Casal explained that the project is still in its early planning stages. He noted that he has reviewed the City’s preliminary concepts and encouraged the community to stay engaged, provide feedback, and share any concerns as the project moves forward.
Orland resident Jan Walker shared her concerns and frustrations that all the old City plans, she helped create, are not present in the current Caltrans project.
Orland resident Ron Lane shared he would like to see additional lighting enhancement on the I-5 bee sculptures.
Mardy Thomas, representative from Glenn County Transit Authority Committee, shared his request for a bus pull-up along SR32 in front of Sav Mor and Success Square, and would like to discuss what kind of funding they would need for bus pull-outs to assist in the area.
Ms. Ponce expressed appreciation for Caltrans’s efforts to prioritize safety and accessibility in planning for Orland’s future.
Orland resident Renee Drake asked questions regarding the existing flagpole holes downtown.
County resident Kristi Rumble thanked Caltrans for the project but emphasized that downtown parking is more critical than adding bike lanes or trees. She also shared her concerns about landscaping elements and stated her opposition to the proposed roundabout.
Orland resident Alex Enriquez acknowledged the importance of bike lanes in securing project funding and asked Caltrans to consider installing protected bike lanes for enhanced safety.
Mr. Denton expressed his appreciation for the community’s growth.
Orland resident George Martinez, a professional truck driver, raised concerns about the impact of bike lanes on available travel width of Walker Street.
Mr. Hackett spoke in support of bike lanes and roundabouts, noting that they contribute to public safety and reflect Caltrans’ commitment to Orland’s long-term needs.
Orland resident Dennis Hoffman shared concerns about emergency vehicle turning radii. While supportive of the roundabout concept, he encouraged Caltrans to meet with the City’s public safety personnel to address operational needs.
The Council agreed that Orland serves as a major commercial corridor and expressed interest in bringing GHD, Caltrans, and City staff together to discuss the proposed roundabout near the freeway.
The Council thanked Caltrans for their presentation and stated that they look forward to continued collaboration on the Walker Complete Streets project.
PUBLIC HEARING
A. Title 17 Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment – Review and Recommend the addition of text to General Commercial (C-2) Section of the Orland Municipal Code (OMC) Title 17 to differentiate the difference between residential uses generally (17.40.040(D) and Dwellings located on the second floor (17.40.030(A)(7)) of commercial structures specifically.
City Planner Lisa Lozier presented a report on Zoning Code Amendment ZCA 2025-05, which proposes clarifying residential use regulations in the Community Commercial (C-2) District. The amendment would:
• Update Section 17.40.040(D) to reference Section 17.40.030(A)(7) regarding second-floor dwellings.
• Revise Section 17.40.030(A)(7) to read: “Dwellings, second floor and above.” The amendment is intended to resolve conflicts in the zoning code by distinguishing general residential uses, which require a Conditional Use Permit, from second-floor dwellings, which may be approved administratively.
Ms. Lozier briefly spoke about the background sharing In March 2025, the Planning Commission approved CUP 2024-02 for a second-floor residential unit at 715 4th Street. Questions arose regarding which residential uses require a Conditional Use Permit versus administrative approval. Staff reported that Section 17.40.020 does not list residential uses as principal uses in the C-2 District. Section
17.40.030(A)(7) allows second-floor dwellings administratively, while Section 17.40.040 requires CUPs for other residential uses. The proposed amendment clarifies that second-floor dwellings are administratively approved, ensuring consistency in permitting.
Ms. Lozier stated that the Planning Commission conducted a public hearing; no public comments were received. The Commission found the amendment exempt from CEQA under the “General Rule” (Section 15061(b)(3)) due to no potential environmental impact (4-0 vote). PC Resolution 2025-06 was adopted, recommending the amendment to City Council for approval (4-0 vote).
Mayor Romano opened the Public Hearing at 7:50 P.M.
Mr. Hoffman asked questions regarding whether the amendment would have any restrictions on 2nd story businesses. Ms. Lozier shared it would depend on the layout of the property in regards to how the dwelling and 2nd floor interact with each other.
The mayor closed the public hearing at 7:53 P.M.
Councilmember Barr moved, seconded by Vice Mayor Tolle, to introduce Ordinance 2025-05 read by title only and to waive further reading of the ordinance. Motion carried by a voice vote 4-0.
ADMINISTRATIVE BUSINESS
Consider Planning Commission Appointment
City Clerk Jennifer Schmitke requested guidance from the Council regarding the appointment to a vacant Planning Commission seat (four-year term) following a resignation in July 2025. The appointment would fill the remainder of the term, expiring December 31, 2028. Ms. Schmitke reported that, after several months of advertising, the City received three applications from qualified candidates:
Bruce T. Roundy, Claire Arano, and Tyler Rutledge.
Ms. Schmitke noted that the Planning Commission Chair reviewed all applications and submitted a recommendation to the Mayor for consideration.
Ms. Ponce expressed her support for considering Bruce Roundy, citing his decades of experience and deep understanding of Orland.
Councilmember McDermott thanked the Planning Commission Chair for reviewing all applicants and stated he was in favor of Tyler Rutledge.
ACTION: Councilmember McDermott moved, seconded by Councilmember Barr, to approve Tyler Rutledge for the Planning Commission seat vacancy. Motion carried by a voice vote 4-0.
Process for Filling City Council Vacancy - Councilmember Smith Resignation City Attorney Scott Drexel reported that Councilmember Brandon Smith resigned effective November 5, 2025, creating a vacancy on the City Council. Under California Government Code Section 36512(b), the Council must fill the vacancy within 60 days, by either appointment or special election, with a deadline of January 4, 2026.
Mr. Drexel outlined the options: an appointment would serve until the next general municipal election on November 3, 2026, following an application and interview process; or a special election could be held on the earliest available regular election date, June 2, 2026, with the winner serving the remainder of the term. The City Clerk has already issued a public notice soliciting applications to allow time for public participation and Council review.
Councilmembers discussed and asked questions regarding the costs associated with holding a special election.
Mr. Enriquez addressed the Council, requesting consideration for appointment to the vacant seat as the first runner-up in the recent election. He briefly introduced himself and shared his vision for the community.
Orland residents Coreen Deleon, Sharon Lazorko, and Ms. Rumble each expressed their support for appointing the first runner-up to fill the vacancy.
Ms. Ponce voiced concerns about the City’s process, noting her belief that residents should have the opportunity to elect their representatives.
Ms. Walker also shared her support for Mr. Enriquez.
Mr. Denton provided comments regarding the special election option.
The Council further discussed whether they had the authority to appoint Mr. Enriquez. Mr. Drexel clarified that the decision rests entirely with the Council, and that they may appoint any qualified individual. He explained that the selection must be placed on a future agenda for a formal vote and that City staff will forward all applications received. He also noted that any appointment would be temporary, lasting only until the next regular election, at which point the appointee would need to run for the seat.
Councilmembers also discussed the option of holding a special election, but agreed it would be preferable to appoint someone now rather than leave the seat vacant for seven months, emphasizing the value of having a full five-member Council seated.
Councilmember McDermott expressed his support for Alex Enriquez.
The Council requested that the meeting be rescheduled from December 4th to December 2nd to coincide with the regular City Council meeting.
ACTION: Councilmember McDermott moved, seconded by Vice Mayor Tolle to proceed with Councilmember selection at the next Council meeting on December 2nd. Motion carried by a voice vote 4-0.
Consideration of a resolution to adopt a City purchasing, procurement and reimbursement policy
City Attorney Scott Drexel presented the proposed comprehensive Purchasing and Contracting Policy, which consolidates existing City purchasing procedures and ensures compliance with state law, including Assembly Bill 1234 for expense reimbursements. The policy outlines procurement thresholds consistent with the Orland Municipal Code, updates public works thresholds under the California Uniform Public Construction Cost Accounting Act (CUPCCAA), and establishes clear guidelines for employee and official expense reimbursements.
Mr. Denton asked what the City currently does, and Mr. Drexel shared that currently they just follow the law; this policy will be something the City can formally follow when dealing with purchasing procurement. Mr. Drexel shared that the City’s insurance company was requiring it and that the policy was created.
ACTION: Vice Mayor Tolle moved, seconded by Councilmember McDermott to adopt resolution 2025-18 for the comprehensive purchasing and contracting policy and expense reimbursement policy and compliance with AB1234. Motion carried by a voice vote 4-0.
City Council discussion and possible action for Glenn County Notice and Order for Orland City Dump
City Engineer Paul Rabo updated the Council on the Orland City Dump, where inspections by Glenn County Environmental Health identified erosion along Stony Creek exposing old burn waste, raising potential water quality and public health concerns. A July 16, 2025 Notice and Order cited violations for drainage, erosion control, and slope stability and outlined three corrective actions.
Mr. Rabo presented a Geo-Logic report with three remediation alternatives: (1) Stabilization and Scour Protection, (2) Gabion Retaining Wall Creek Bank Restoration, and (3) Clean Closure. The County requested that the City evaluate the alternatives and prepare a Corrective Action Plan, including a preferred alternative and timeline. Permitting may take over a year, after which improvement plans will be prepared, and construction contracts awarded.
The Council reviewed the costs associated with the three available options and discussed which approach would best serve the City. The Council directed staff to prepare a corrective action plan and submit a grant application. Once the level of grant funding is known, the Council will proceed with either Option 1 or Option 2, depending on available resources.
First Reading of Ordinance No.2025-06 Amending Chapter 10.32 of the Orland Municipal Code Relating to Abandoned, Wrecked, Dismantled, and Inoperative Vehicles Chief Vlach provided an update on the City’s abandoned vehicle ordinance (Chapter 10.32), noting it is outdated and not fully compliant with California Vehicle Code requirements. He highlighted the public health, safety, and community impacts of abandoned vehicles and explained that state law authorizes local agencies to abate them as public nuisances.
The proposed ordinance amendment would update definitions and procedures, establish a partnership with Glenn County’s Service Authority for Abandoned Vehicles Abatement (SAAV) program for funding, implement administrative cost recovery, maintain due process protections, and allow expedited removal of vehicles posing immediate threats. The program is designed to be cost-neutral, funded through SAAV allocations, administrative fees, and, if needed, property tax liens.
Councilmember Barr asked for clarification on if the City allows junk dealers. Chief Vlach shared he would need to review the municipal code. Councilmember McDermott shared his support for the Ordinance, sharing it would be a great tool for the City.
Mr. Denton asked a question regarding a lot that has old cars on Hwy 99. Mayor Romano shared that the City could look into the lot.
Ms. Drake asked questions about project cars that are sitting on properties and shared her concerns about property being removed from private property. Mr. Drexel spoke about due process notification rights.
Vice Mayor Tolle shared that OPD will give notices about nuisance vehicles, and there is a process to keep your property clean.
Mayor Romano shared that this ordinance is an update that coincides with State law, it isn’t new just an update.
ACTION: Councilmember McDermott moved, seconded by Vice Mayor Tolle to introduce the ordinance 2025-06 amending Chapter 10.32 of the municipal Code relating to abandoned, wrecked, dismantled, and inoperative vehicles. Motion carried by a voice vote 4-0.
Consideration to form an Ad Hoc Committee for Community Enrichment City Manager Joe Goodman reported that staff and the Mayor met with community members to discuss ways to celebrate Orland’s cultural heritage. Following the meeting, community representatives requested continued dialogue and actions promoting inclusivity and cultural pride.
To support this collaboration while complying with the Brown Act, staff recommended the Council establish an Ad Hoc Committee for Community Enrichment. The committee would include City Council members, representatives from City commissions, local organizations, and community members, and would explore cultural initiatives, review proposals for celebrations and projects, evaluate funding opportunities, and provide recommendations to City staff and the full Council.
Ms. Deleon thanked the Council for bringing the item forward and expressed support for future opportunities.
Orland resident Carolyn Denton inquired about who would be eligible to participate and which organizations could join the committee.
Mr. Lane asked whether there would be a minimum or maximum number of members and whether the meetings would be formal or informal. Mr. Drexel clarified that the group would function as an informal Council subcommittee and would not require formal agendas.
Mr. Hackett voiced his support for establishing the ad hoc committee.
Ms. Ponce thanked the Mayor and City Manager for advancing the committee’s formation.
ACTION: Councilmember McDermott moved, seconded by Vice Mayor Tolle, to approve the formation of the ad hoc committee for community enrichment, to collaborate with community representatives on initiatives celebrating Orland’s cultural diversity. Motion carried by a voice vote 4-0.
Glenn Medical Center Closure Impact Study Cost Share Update City Manager Joe Goodman provided an update on the regional impact study related to the closure of Glenn Medical Center’s emergency department. He reminded the Council that the City previously committed $15,000 as part of a cost-sharing agreement with Glenn County and the City of Willows to evaluate impacts on police, fire, and emergency medical services.
Mr. Goodman reported that the County’s RFP process resulted in two qualified proposals, with the lowest bid totaling $48,000—$3,000 above the original estimate. To proceed with the contract, each partner agency would need to contribute an additional $1,000.
Mayor Romano emphasized the importance of maintaining this essential community service and shared concerns that the County’s exploration of a countywide ambulance model could jeopardize the future viability of Westside Ambulance, particularly its ability to serve the north end of the county.
ACTION: Vice Mayor Tolle moved, seconded by Councilmember Barr, to authorize the City Manager to approve the additional $1,000 from Measure J funds toward the shared cost of the Glenn Medical Center impact study. Motion carried by a voice vote 4-0.
City Manager Verbal Report
City Manager Joe Goodman provided the Council with an update on several ongoing projects throughout the community, noting the following highlights:
• Funding options and plans regarding the DWR well project and the Lely Well rebuild, as well as planned upgrades to water lines in the downtown area.
CITY COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS AND REPORTS
Councilmember McDermott:
• Reported attending the EDC meeting.
• Requested that the City explore options for upgrading its recording system, expressing frustration that the current video and internet quality is inadequate for residents who watch meetings from home.
Councilmember Barr:
• Had nothing to report.
Vice Mayor Tolle:
• Asked if City Staff had heard from Pioneer Energy, Mr. Goodman shared that he would reach out to them.
Mayor Romano:
• Had nothing to report.
MEETING ADJOURNED 9:38 PM
Jennifer Schmitke, City Clerk Mathew Romano, Mayor