cc22Apr2025 – ud/prc
RICHMOND, CALIFORNIA,
April 22, 2025, 3:30 p.m.
Community Services Building
440 Civic Center Plaza
Richmond, CA 94804
_____________________________________________________________________
A. OPEN SESSION TO HEAR PUBLIC COMMENT BEFORE CLOSED SESSION The meeting was called to order at 3:31 p.m. by Mayor Eduardo Martinez.
B. ROLL CALL
Present: Councilmembers Jamelia Brown, Claudia Jimenez, Doria Robinson, Sue Wilson, Vice Mayor Cesar Zepeda, and Mayor Eduardo Martinez. Absent:
Councilmember Soheila Bana was absent for the entire meeting.
C. CLOSED SESSION
C.1 PUBLIC EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE EV ALUATION (Government Code Section 54957)
• Title: City Clerk
• Title: City Attorney
C.2 LIABILITY CLAIMS (Government Code Section 54956.9)
• Claimant: Eugene “Tracy” Mollenbernd
C.3 CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS (Government Code
Section 54957.6)
• Agency Representatives: Sharrone Taylor, Jack Hughes, Lisa Charbonneau
Employee organizations:
1. SEIU Local 1021 Full Time Unit and Part Time Unit
2. IFPTE Local 21 Mid-Level Management Unit and Executive Management Units
3. Richmond Police Officers Association RPOA
4. Richmond Police Management Association RPMA
5. IAFF Local 188
6. Richmond Fire Management Association RFMA
C.4 CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - ANTICIPATEDLITIGATION (Significant exposure to litigation pursuant to paragraph (2) or (3)of Subdivision (d) [as applicable] of Government Code Section 54956.9) • One case
D. PUBLIC COMMENT BEFORE CLOSED SESSION (limited to items on the Closed Session agenda only)
Cordell Hindler gave comments in support of the union negotiations and in support of the performance evaluations of the city clerk and city attorney.
cc22Apr2025 – ud/prc
E. ADJOURN TO CLOSED SESSION
Open Session adjourned at 3:34 p.m. Closed session adjoined at 5:00 p.m.
F. REGULAR MEETING OF THE RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
The meeting was called to order at 5:04 p.m. by Mayor Eduardo Martinez.
G. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Eduardo Martinez led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
H. ROLL CALL
Present: Councilmembers Soheila Bana, Jamelia Brown, Claudia Jimenez, Doria Robinson, Sue Wilson, Vice Mayor Cesar Zepeda, and Mayor Eduardo Martinez.
Absent: None.
I. STATEMENT OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST
None.
J. AGENDA REVIEW
None.
K. REPORT FROM THE CITY ATTORNEY OF FINAL DECISIONS MADE
DURING CLOSED SESSION
C.1 PUBLIC EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE EV ALUATION (Government Code Section 54957)
• Title: City Clerk
• Title: City Attorney
Discussed. There was no reportable action taken.
C.2 LIABILITY CLAIMS (Government Code Section 54956.9) • Claimant: Eugene “Tracy” Mollenbernd
Discussed. Direction for a settlement agreement was given to the city negotiators.
C.3 CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS (Government Code Section 54957.6)
• Agency Representatives: Sharrone Taylor, Jack Hughes, Lisa Charbonneau Employee organizations:
1. SEIU Local 1021 Full Time Unit and Part Time Unit
2. IFPTE Local 21 Mid-Level Management Unit and Executive Management Units
3. Richmond Police Officers Association RPOA
4. Richmond Police Management Association RPMA
5. IAFF Local 188
6. Richmond Fire Management Association RFMA
Discussed. No reportable action was taken.
cc22Apr2025 – ud/prc
C.4 CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - ANTICIPATEDLITIGATION (Significant exposure to litigation pursuant to paragraph (2) or (3)of Subdivision (d) [as applicable] of Government Code Section 54956.9)
• One case
Discussed. No reportable action was taken.
L. REPORT FROM THE CITY MANAGER (public comment allowed under Open Forum)
City Manager Shasa Curl presented the report.
Link to presentation: City Manager Report
M. COMMENDATIONS, PRESENTATIONS, AND PROCLAMATIONS (10 minutes per item)
M.1 Proclamation Honoring Jean Carney for 41 years of Service to the City of Richmond
PROCLAMATION honoring Jean Carney for 41 years of dedicated service and being the longest serving employee of the City of Richmond and extraordinary milestone that reflects her loyalty, integrity, and love for the City of Richmond and its people - Vice Mayor Cesar Zepeda (510-620-6593).
The mayor and councilmembers read and presented the proclamation to Jean Carney.
Cordell Hindler gave comments.
M.2 Proclamation Recognizing April 2025 as American Muslim Appreciation and Awareness Month
PROCLAMATION Recognizing April 2025 as American Muslim Appreciation and Awareness Month - Mayor Eduardo Martinez (510-620-6503).
The Mayor and Councilmembers read and presented the proclamation.
Mark Wassberg gave comments.
M.3 Proclamation Recognizing and Honoring Mansour Taeed and Shahrzad Khorsandi for Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month PROCLAMATION to recognize and honor Mansour Taeed and Shahrzad Khorsandi, co-founders of Central Stage, as outstanding Iranian American artists, and Central Stage Theater for its vital grassroots role in preserving and celebrating Iranian American culture - Councilmember Soheila Bana (510-672- 3490).
The mayor and city council read and presented the proclamation.
N. OPEN FORUM FOR PUBLIC COMMENT
(public comment on items that remain on the Consent Calendar or items not on the agenda - limited to 2 minutes unless otherwise specified - Back and forth dialogue with the Council is prohibited)
Cordell Hindler gave comments in support of the city negotiating with the Riggers Loft to remain open. Mr. Hindler also suggested that the city collaborate with the UC Berkeley Chancellor’s Office.
Francisco Torres gave comments regarding Carlson Avenue accidents and safety issues.
cc22Apr2025 – ud/prc
Mark Wassburg gave comments regarding cuts President Trump made to various programs.
Kito WIlliams gave comments regarding the non-sworn members of the police department working to separate from SEIU Local 1021.
Julie Freestone gave comments regarding the danger of illegal fireworks and the formation of a grassroots effort to stop illegal fireworks through the formation of the Stop Illegal Fireworks (SIF) group.
Janet Johnson invited the community to a meeting with the Richmond Shoreline Alliance on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. regarding the United Heckathorn site. To register participants can contact www.RichmondShorelineAlliance.org O. CITY COUNCIL CONSENT CALENDAR
(All items placed under the Consent Calendar are considered to be routine and noncontroversial. These items will be enacted upon together with a motion and second, without discussion, of any member of the City Council, and each item shall be deemed to have received the action recommended.)
Motion by Councilmember Doria Robinson
Seconded by Councilmember Claudia Jimenez
Ayes (7): Councilmember Soheila Bana, Councilmember Jamelia Brown, Councilmember Claudia Jimenez, Councilmember Doria Robinson, Councilmember Sue Wilson, Vice Mayor Cesar Zepeda, and Mayor Eduardo Martinez Passed
O.1 City Clerk's Office
O.1.a Meeting Minutes
APPROVE the minutes of the March 11, 2025, regular City Council meeting - City Clerk's Office (Pamela Christian 510-620-6513).
O.2 City Manager's Office
O.2.a Approve by Legislative Action City Subpoena of Financial Records held by Chevron
ADOPT a resolution approving a Legislative Subpoena to compel Chevron U.S.A. Inc. to provide financial information to the City sufficient for it to conduct an audit and examination of Chevron’s books and records as related to its 2025 Business License Tax payment to the City - City Manager's Office (Shasa Curl 510-620-6512).
Adopted Resolution No. 40-25.
O.3 Economic Development
O.3.a RecycleMore Post-Collection Agreement
ADOPT a resolution authorizing the West Contra Costa Integrated Solid Waste Authority (RecycleMore) to: 1) enter into a new Post-Collection Agreement for the period beginning July 1, 2025, or later, through December 2026; 2) adopt, as authorized by California Law, ordinances and resolutions necessary to carry out the purposes of the Agreement; and 3) require that the Members direct all of the Solid Wastes collected by the
cc22Apr2025 – ud/prc
City’s contractor per its Collection Agreement to the Approved Facility for the period beginning July 1, 2025, or later, through December 2026 – Economic Development Department (Shasa Curl 510-620-6512/Nannette Beacham 510-620-1306/Samantha Carr 510-620-5407).
Adopted Resolution No. 41-25.
O.4 Fire Department
O.4.a Purchase Emergency Rail Kit from All Safe Industries, Inc.
APPROVE the purchase of an Emergency Rail Kit (ERK) from All Safe Industries, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $14,000, for response and management of hazardous material leaks – Fire Department (Chief Aaron Osorio 510-307-8021/Deputy Chief Rico Rincon/Battalion Chief Anthony Woodards 510-620-6989/ Den Mark Marcelo 510-307-8038).
O.5 Mayor's Office
O.5.a Reappointment of Bruce Brubaker to the Planning Commission REAPPOINT Bruce Brubaker to the Planning Commission, term expires June 30, 2026 – Mayor’s Office (Mayor Eduardo Martinez 510-620-6503).
O.5.b Reappointment of Madiha Qader to the Richmond Fund for Children and Youth Oversight Board
REAPPOINT Madiha Qader to the Richmond Fund for Children and Youth Oversight Board, term expires December 2, 2026 – Mayor’s Office (Mayor Eduardo Martinez 510-620-6503).
O.6 Police Department
O.6.a Accept and Appropriate 2023 Edward Byrne Justice Assistance Grant ADOPT a resolution acknowledging the acceptance of the grant from the 2023 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program in the amount of $90,412 for police safety equipment; ACCEPT and APPROPRIATE $90,412 in grant funds for the covered period of the grant, October 1, 2023, to September 30, 2026 – Police Department (Chief Bisa French 510-621-1802).
Adopted Resolution No. 42-25.
O.6.b Contract Amendment No. 2 with Oliver’s Tow, Inc.
APPROVE a second contract amendment with Oliver’s Tow, Inc. increasing the payment limit by $50,000, for a total payment limit of $95,000 for rotational tow and automotive services for a term ending on December 31, 2025 – Police Department (Chief Bisa French 510-621- 1802).
O.7 Public Works
O.7.a Abatement Report from the Public Works Director
RECEIVE a written abatement report from the Public Works Director - Public Works Department (Daniel Chavarria 510-620-5478).
O.7.b Resolution to Accept the Final Richmond Parkway Transportation Plan
cc22Apr2025 – ud/prc
ADOPT a resolution to ACCEPT the final Richmond Parkway Transportation Plan – Public Works Department (Janney Lockman 510- 307-8097/Robert Armijo 510-620-5477).
Adopted Resolution No. 43-25.
O.7.c Construction Agreement with Calico California Constructores, Inc. for the Soccer Fields-Restrooms-Parks Project
ADOPT a resolution to approve a construction agreement with Calico California Constructores, Inc. for the Soccer Fields-Restrooms-Parks Project at Shields-Reid Park in an contract amount not to exceed $2,288,605 and AUTHORIZE the Director of Public Works to approve change orders, if necessary, for a contingency amount of up to $228,861 which is 10 percent of the bid amount, for a potential total construction phase cost of $2,517,466 – Public Works Department (Daniel Chavarria 510-620-5478/Robert Armijo 510-620-5477/Darcie DeLashmutt 510-672- 3944).
Adopted Resolution No. 44-25.
O.7.d BNSF Railway Company Preliminary Engineering Services Agreement for the Transformative Climate Communities (TCC) Richmond Wellness Trail Phase 2 Project
ADOPT a resolution authorizing the public works director and the city engineer to execute a BNSF Railway Company Preliminary Engineering Services Agreement for the Transformative Climate Communities Richmond Wellness Trail Phase 2 Project – Public Works Department (Robert Armijo 510-620-5477/Josef Munoz 510-620-6671).
Adopted Resolution No. 45-25.
O.7.e Contract with RDO Equipment Co. for Tree Chipper Repair APPROVE a contract with RDO Equipment Co. for $15,000 to pay for outstanding invoices related to the repair of a tree chipper with a contract term of August 2, 2024, and ending June 30, 2025 – Public Works Department (Tawfic Halaby 510-620-5482/Jason Lacey 510-620- 6920/Keith Rush 510-231-3071).
Adopted Resolution No. 46-25.
P. BUDGET SESSION
P.1 Fiscal Year 2024-25 Mid-Year Budget Review
RECEIVE the Fiscal Year 2024-25 Mid-Year budget presentation and report for the period of July 1, 2024, through December 31, 2024; and ADOPT a resolution approving proposed Fiscal Year 2024-25 Mid-Year budget adjustments – Finance Department (Andrea Miller 510-620-6790/Mubeen Qader 510-412-2077/Jerry Gurule 510-620-6591).
City Manager Shasa Curl, Finance Director Andrea Miller, and Revenue Manager Antonio Banuelos gave an overview, which highlighted the following: Economic Outlook; Financial Headwinds; Federal Funding Uncertainties; General Fund Mid-Year Revenue and Expenditures; Non-General Fund Mid-Year Proposed Revenue and Expenditure Adjustments; and Next Steps and Questions.
Cordell Hindler, and Jamin Pursell gave comments.
cc22Apr2025 – ud/prc
The city council requested the following: hiring a CIP Manager; to staff Code Enforcement Department as much as possible; that funding sources were identified along with the corresponding projects; and return with more information in the report regarding bridge details.
Adopted Resolution No. 47-25.
Motion by Councilmember Claudia Jimenez
Seconded by Mayor Eduardo Martinez
Ayes (7): Councilmember Soheila Bana, Councilmember Jamelia Brown, Councilmember Claudia Jimenez, Councilmember Doria Robinson, Councilmember Sue Wilson, Vice Mayor Cesar Zepeda, and Mayor Eduardo Martinez
Passed
Q. PUBLIC HEARINGS
Q.1 Unit Determination – Community Intervention Specialist HEAR an appeal by the Richmond Police Officers Association (RPOA) regarding the Unit Determination for Community Intervention Specialist and make a final determination regarding the bargaining unit – Human Resources Department (Nickie Mastay/Sharrone Taylor 510-620-6803). This item was continued from the April 15, 2025, meeting.
Human Resources Director/Employee Relations Manager Sharonne Taylor gave an overview.
Link to presentation: Unit Determination - Community Intervention Specialist Discussion ensued.
Appellant Johnathon Murphy, Attorney from Rains Lucia Stern, and applicant Jack Hughes, from Liebert Cassidy Whitmore each gave eight-minute statements.
Mayor Martinez opened the public hearing.
Cordell Hindler, Ben Therriault, Julie Salamon, Rosie, Andrew Melendez, Hope, Joselyn, Carlos, Sonia, Sahai, Jamin Pursell, Crescent Diamond, Raymond Wendell, Marisol Cantu, Amber Hatfield, Oscar Garcia, Carmen Martinez, Emily Ross, Sara Cantor, Kevin Tisdale, and Abigail Castillas gave comments.
Appellant Johnathon Murphy and Jack Hughes gave two-minute rebuttals.
Mayor Martinez closed the public hearing.
Further discussion ensued around clarification. Following discussion, a motion was made to reject the appeal and uphold the determination of the Employee Relations Manager.
Motion by Councilmember Sue Wilson
Seconded by Councilmember Claudia Jimenez
Ayes (6): Councilmember Jamelia Brown, Councilmember Claudia Jimenez, Councilmember Doria Robinson, Councilmember Sue Wilson, Vice Mayor Cesar Zepeda, and Mayor Eduardo Martinez
Abstentions (1): Councilmember Soheila Bana
cc22Apr2025 – ud/prc
Passed
R. STUDY AND ACTION SESSION
R.1 AB 481 “Military Equipment Use” Annual Report
ADOPT a resolution (1) accepting the 2024 Annual Military Equipment Report; (2) determining that the Police Department’s use of military equipment in 2024 complied with the Department’s Military Equipment Policy No. 707 and state law; and (3) to renew the authorizing Ordinance No. 12-22 N.S. / Military Equipment Use Policy - Police Department (Bisa French 510-621-1802). This item was continued from the March 25, 2025, meeting.
Police Chief Bisa French and Captain John Lopez presented the report.
Link to report: Annual Military Equipment
The city council suggested the following: improve advertising to the community for future military use meetings; send future military use community meeting information to the city council to promote the meetings; include other costs associated in the report such as maintenance costs, storage costs, and personnel costs; and include in the report the locations and ethnic and racial data for the incidents.
Jamin Pursell, Andrew Melendez, Rosie, Crescent, Marisol Cantu, Carmen Martinez, Jules, and Raymond Wendell gave comments.
Adopted Resolution No. 48-25.
Motion by Mayor Eduardo Martinez
Seconded by Councilmember Jamelia Brown
A motion was made to approve the item and adopt the resolution.
Ayes (7): Councilmember Soheila Bana, Councilmember Jamelia Brown, Councilmember Claudia Jimenez, Councilmember Doria Robinson, Councilmember Sue Wilson, Vice Mayor Cesar Zepeda, and Mayor Eduardo Martinez
Passed
Motion by Councilmember Sue Wilson
Seconded by Councilmember Claudia Jimenez
An additional motion was made that for next year's community engagement meeting, the Community Polce Review Commission, the mayor's office, and the city council are all noticed two weeks in advance of the meeting and that next year's report include location and demographic information, including race and ethnicity data to be determined by mutual agreement.
Ayes (7): Councilmember Soheila Bana, Councilmember Jamelia Brown, Councilmember Claudia Jimenez, Councilmember Doria Robinson, Councilmember Sue Wilson, Vice Mayor Cesar Zepeda, and Mayor Eduardo Martinez
Passed
cc22Apr2025 – ud/prc
R.2 Salary Schedule Amendment
ADOPT a resolution amending the salary schedule to add the salary range for Community Intervention Specialist – Human Resources Department (Nickie Mastay/Sharrone Taylor 510-620-6602). This item was continued from the April 15, 2025, meeting.
Human Resources Director Sharrone Taylor gave an overview.
Cordell Hindler gave comments.
Adopted Resolution No. 49-25.
Motion by Councilmember Claudia Jimenez
Seconded by Councilmember Sue Wilson
Ayes (7): Councilmember Soheila Bana, Councilmember Jamelia Brown, Councilmember Claudia Jimenez, Councilmember Doria Robinson, Councilmember Sue Wilson, Vice Mayor Cesar Zepeda, and Mayor Eduardo Martinez
Passed
R.3 Capital Improvement Program Update and Criteria Discussion RECEIVE a presentation and PROVIDE DIRECTION to staff on the status of the Capital Improvement Program (CIP), Budget Requests, new CIP requests, proposed city-wide prioritization factors and weighing system – Public Works Department (Daniel Chavarria 510-620-5478/ Robert Armijo 510-620-5477).
Public Works Director Daniel Chavarria, Port Director Charles Gerard, Deputy Public Works Director Robert Armijo, Capital Projects Manager Josef Munoz, and Robert Stevens from CSW gave an overview.
Link to presentation: Capital Improvement Program Update The city council requested that Fire Station 66 receive a complete renovation.
Due to lack of time the item was continued to a Special City Council Meeting on April 29, 2025, for city council discussion only.
R.4 Design and implementation of a Ciclovia project
DIRECT staff to work on the design and implementation of the Ciclovia project and come back to the council in early May with the proposed design, budget, and implementation plan to launch the first Ciclovia during the Summer of 2025 – Councilmember Claudia Jimenez (510-620-6565).
Item was continued to a Special City Council meeting on April 29, 2025.
R.5 Increasing Fines for Fireworks in High and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (VHFHSZ) areas
DIRECT the City Attorney’s Office to draft an ordinance amending the Richmond Municipal Code Chapter 11.05 Fireworks to triple fines for fireworks-related violations specifically in high-risk zones to mitigate wildfire risks and enhance public safety - Councilmember Soheila Bana (510-672-3490).
Item was continued to a Special City Council meeting on April 29, 2025.
cc22Apr2025 – ud/prc
S. REPORTS OF OFFICERS: REFERRALS TO STAFF, AND GENERAL REPORTS (INCLUDING AB 1234 REPORTS)(limited to two minutes per
Councilmember)(public comments allowed under Open Forum) None.
T. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 11:01 p.m., to meet again on April 29, 2025, at 5:00 p.m.
Clerk of the City of Richmond Mayor
From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:
[email protected]
City Clerk Dept User
[email protected]
Public comments – Open Forum Tuesday, April 22, 2025
12:59:35 PM
This email originated from outside of the City's email system. Do not open links or attachments from untrusted sources.
This email originated from outside of the City's email system. Do not open links or attachments from untrusted sources.
Dear City Manager Shasa Curl, City Attorney Dave Aleshire, HR Director Lisa Stephenson, and Members of the City Council,
My name is Kito Williams, and I serve as a Jailer with the Richmond Police Department. I am writing on behalf of the overwhelming majority—over 80%—of the non-sworn, police-related classifications within the department who have expressed their clear intent to leave SEIU Local 1021 and seek representation under the Richmond Police Officers Association (RPOA).
This decision did not come lightly. It stems from a deep, shared belief among the undersigned employees that our roles, responsibilities, and daily experiences place us in far closer alignment with the mission, operations, and community service focus of the RPOA. We work side by side with sworn personnel, serve the same public safety goals, and operate within the same command structure and environment. Our interests and needs are fundamentally different from those of general city employees, and we believe they can be better understood and represented by the RPOA.
We are hopeful that the City will respect our collective voice and support a smooth and fair transition in accordance with applicable labor laws and meet-and-confer obligations. Our shared goal is to ensure that all City of Richmond employees are represented by the organizations best suited to advocate for their specific classifications, roles, and interests.
Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.
Respectfully,
Kito Williams
Richmond Police Department – Jailer
On behalf of over 80% of police-related non-sworn classifications From: Kathleen Clancy
To: City Clerk Dept User
Subject: Audit Chevron
Date: Sunday, April 20, 2025 6:33:32 PM
This email originated from outside of the City's email system. Do not open links or attachments from untrusted sources.
You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important This email originated from outside of the City's email system. Do not open links or attachments from untrusted sources.
Dear Council Members,
You have our full support to make Chevron pay their fair share. In this current climate I suggest you shine as much light on this matter as possible from the local and national press. Right now working people are being nickeled and dimed at the pump which increases the price on all food products and more.
It seems like corporations and the administration currently have all the power. Let's give some to the people that shape our nation.
Thank you all,
Kathleen Clancy
From: Davjanee
To: City Clerk Dept User
Subject: Q.1 Unit Determination- Community Intervention Specialist Date: Monday, April 21, 2025 9:42:38 PM
This email originated from outside of the City's email system. Do not open links or attachments from untrusted sources.
This email originated from outside of the City's email system. Do not open links or attachments from untrusted sources.
Hello Mayor Martinez and Council Members,
My name is Davjanee Tillis. I am a Richmond resident. I am writing in support of designating the Community Intervention Specialist as a part of the SEIU 1021 bargaining unit. I wholeheartedly believe that this position should be separate from the Richmond Police Officers Association (RPOA) and of the Richmond Police Department. This position will be doing different work than the Police and needs to be given autonomy to do their job.
The CIS position’s work will be rooted in supporting a continuum of care for community members in crisis and not in the criminalization of community members in crisis. We truly need a multidisciplinary approach to care in Richmond. Not every 911 call constitutes police work. The other entities that respond to 911 calls are not a part of the RPOA bargain, so what truly makes the CIS position different from EMT’s or Firefighters? I feel that this position is long overdue in our community and I am disappointed that RPOA is putting unnecessary roadblocks to getting this position started. I am also surprised that RPOA is not championing to get this position up and running because I have heard the RPD Chief say numerous times in CCRP and City Council meetings that RPD is short staffed. This CIS position would help take lower level calls off of Police hands and into the hands of someone trained to provide the proper support. Thus helping ease RPD’s workload and prevent any more community members from being harmed or killed for needing care. This is another situation where I ask myself, If the Police want to serve our community or control our community? I hope you vote to designate the Community Intervention Specialist position as a part of the SEIU 1021 bargaining unit.
Thank You!
From: Reimagine Richmond
To: Eduardo Martinez; City Clerk Dept User
Subject: Public Hearing Comment for Agenda Item Q-1: Community Intervention Specialist Date: Tuesday, April 22, 2025 12:42:19 PM
Attachments: LetterofSupportforCCRPPosition (2).pdf
This email originated from outside of the City's email system. Do not open links or attachments from untrusted sources.
This email originated from outside of the City's email system. Do not open links or attachments from untrusted sources.
Hello Mayor Martinez, City Clerk, and City Council,
Reimagine Richmond would like to share a letter regarding Agenda Item Q.1, which would designate the Community Intervention Specialist to SEIU 1021. This letter reflects the voices of 16 direct service partners and advocacy organizations across Richmond who believe in creating a system of care. Please reach out anytime if you have any questions or wish to discuss more.
--
In Community,
RR Organizing Team
www.reimaginerichmond.org
Click here to follow us on Instagram
Eduardo Martinez, Mayor Soheila Bana, Councilmember Jamelia Brown, Councilmember Claudia Jimenez, Councilmember Doria Robinson, Councilmember Sue Wilson, Councilmember Cesar Zepeda, Councilmember April 22, 2025 Dear Mayor Martinez and City Council, We, the 16 undersigned direct service providers and advocacy organizations, write to offer our full
support
for
the
Community
Intervention
Specialist
as
a
core
responder
in
a
non-police
crisis
response
program
in
Richmond,
California.
As
frontline
community-based
organizations
that
provide
essential
care
services—including
mental
health
support,
substance
use
treatment,
peer
counseling,
housing
navigation,
and
community
outreach—we
see
firsthand
the
urgent
need
for
compassionate,
community-led
alternatives
to
law
enforcement
in
times
of
crisis.
As
advocacy
organizations,
we
must
fight
for
a
holistic
approach
to
crises
in
Richmond.
Every day, direct service providers engage with individuals and families struggling with complex challenges
that
require
care,
not
criminalization.
Too
often,
these
crises
are
met
with
law
enforcement
responses
that
can
escalate
situations
and
cause
further
trauma—particularly
for
Black,
Indigenous,
immigrant,
unhoused,
LGBTQIA+,
and
disabled
community
members.
A
care-first
approach
rooted
in
trauma-informed,
culturally
responsive
practices
is
not
only
more
humane
but
also
more
effective
in
creating
long-term
safety
and
stability.
The City Council of Richmond has the opportunity to create a new classification called the Community
Intervention
Specialist
under
SEIU
1021.
As
community-based
organizations,
we
are
ready
to
collaborate
with
the
team
of
Community
Intervention
Specialists
on
response
protocols,
referrals,
resource
mapping,
and
ongoing
training
that
reflect
our
shared
values
of
care,
respect,
and
community
self-determination.
We strongly urge the City of Richmond to invest in this care-based crisis response network and ensure
that
it
is
led
by
the
community,
rooted
in
care,
and
guided
by
the
lived
experiences
of
those
it
serves.
From: Davjanee
To: City Clerk Dept User
Subject: R.1 : AB481 “Military Equipment Use” Annual Report Date: Monday, April 21, 2025 10:37:06 PM
This email originated from outside of the City's email system. Do not open links or attachments from untrusted sources.
You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important This email originated from outside of the City's email system. Do not open links or attachments from untrusted sources.
Hello Mayor Martinez and Council Members,
My name is Davjanee. I am a Richmond resident. I am not in support of RPD acquiring more Chemical Agents, Smoke Canisters, and Kinetic Energy Rounds. I also feel like RPD shouldn't be borrowing East Bay Regional Park's Regional Police Ballistic Armored Tactical Transport vehicle. As a community we need to invest in reimagining community safety that does not involve weapons that are used in war.
As a community member who was at the AB 481 community engagement meeting last year. I do appreciate RPD making an effort to be transparent w/ the community. However I think before asking for more equipment and armored vehicles there needs to be more transparency around the use, cost, and training of the military equipment that RPD already has in their possession.
I am also calling for more clarity around the impact these militarized weapons have on the community. I believe the next annual report should state where these militarized equipment were most used. It should also state if the militarized equipment was used in the presence of vulnerable community members like children, the elderly, or those that are disabled.
It's highly concerning
to think that an entity that already has issues with de-escalation, has access to military equipment. It's even more concerning when that entity swears there is a need for this type of equipment and then gives a shallow annual report on the military equipment. It doesn't give community members any true understanding or affirmation on the purpose of military equipment. And it gives the viewpoint that the equipment isn't truly needed and that money is being wasted. Therefore I am saying NO to more equipment and armored vehicles! We could be using the money given for military equipment for more productive and less intimidating services.
Thank You
From: daniel lanis
To: City Clerk Dept User
Subject: Public Comment - Agenda Item R.4 - Design and implementation of a Ciclovia project Date: Tuesday, April 22, 2025 12:43:39 PM
This email originated from outside of the City's email system. Do not open links or attachments from untrusted sources.
This email originated from outside of the City's email system. Do not open links or attachments from untrusted sources.
Honorable Richmond City Council and Staff,
I'm writing to ask for your support of Ciclovia in the City of Richmond.
Ciclovia, also known as Open Streets, was born in 1974 in Bogota, Colombia. Since then, it has become a reference, inspiring more than 400 cities around the globe to replicate similar programs. Richmond should be no exception.
Benefits of Ciclovia are wide-ranging, impacting:
1. Health Benefits: Physical Activity, Mental Health, Increased Fitness
2. Environmental Benefits: Reduction in Air Pollution, Sustainability, Reduced Carbon Footprint
3. Community and Social Benefits: Building Community Connections, Social Inclusion, Safety
4. Urban Space Reimagining: Car-Free Spaces, Increased Use of Public Spaces
5. Economic Benefits: Local Business Boost, Cost-Effective
6. Traffic Reduction: Less Congestion, Improved Traffic Flow
7. Public Awareness and Education: Promoting Active Transportation, Health Education
8. Enhanced Urban Planning: Pilot Programs for New Infrastructure From improving public health to promoting environmental sustainability and fostering stronger community ties, Ciclovia offers a holistic range of benefits, it's an example of how urban spaces can be reimagined to encourage healthier, more sustainable lifestyles.
I hope you can allow for this to happen in our city.
Thank you!
Dani Lanis
Richmond resident
From: [email protected]
To: City Clerk Dept User
Subject: Public Comment Agenda Item R.5.
Date: Tuesday, April 22, 2025 8:39:27 PM
This email originated from outside of the City's email system. Do not open links or attachments from untrusted sources.
This email originated from outside of the City's email system. Do not open links or attachments from untrusted sources.
Dear Richmond City Council,
Representative Soheila Bana from our District 4 has introduced an item on tonights agenda: Public Comment Agenda Item R.5.
As homeowners in Richmond’s May Valley/El Sobrante neighborhood, we are very concerned about wildfires and fireworks being a starter for fires.
Please support her initiative for Increasing Fines for Fireworks in High and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (VHFHSZ)
areas!
We urge you to further DIRECT the City Attorney’s Office to draft an ordinance amending the Richmond Municipal Code Chapter 11.05 Fireworks to triple fines for fireworks-related violations specifically in high-risk zones to mitigate wildfire risks and enhance public safety.
From: Cary Groner
To: City Clerk Dept User
Cc: Soheila Bana
Subject: Public Comment Agenda Item R.5
Date: Saturday, April 19, 2025 12:19:47 PM
This email originated from outside of the City's email system. Do not open links or attachments from untrusted sources.
This email originated from outside of the City's email system. Do not open links or attachments from untrusted sources.
Dear City Clerk & Members of the City Council,
I've lived in Richmond on Pyramid Drive, in Soheila Bana's district near the Greenridge Post- Acute care facility, for over 15 years. I'm writing in support of item R.5 on the 4/22 council meeting.
In the years I've lived here, holidays including New Year's -- and particularly July 4th -- have been marked by extreme fireworks, even though we are up against open space and in a high fire-risk zone. On July 4th, despite typically dry weather and parched local vegetation, it's common for huge explosions that sound like military ordnance to be detonated repeatedly until well past midnight. Although these explosions are powerful enough to rattle windows for several blocks around, there never seems to be any police response.
So in addition to the increased fines, it would be great if there was some indication of better enforcement to give the fines some teeth. This could include patrol cars parked in and near the area, and presumably some attempt to track down the location of the explosions and cite the people responsible. The laissez-faire attitude that has prevailed in years past is no longer acceptable in a time of ever-increasing fire risk to nearby neighborhoods and wildlands.
Thanks for your consideration.
Cary Groner
2155 Pyramid Dr
Richmond, CA 94803
510/275-9284
From: lori scott
To: City Clerk Dept User
Subject: Fireworks
Date: Saturday, April 19, 2025 6:45:52 AM
This email originated from outside of the City's email system. Do not open links or attachments from untrusted sources.
[You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ]
This email originated from outside of the City's email system. Do not open links or attachments from untrusted sources.
Since the police department is spread too thin to catch many people setting off fireworks why can’t the fire department also be involved in catching these people ? Who can answer this question? From Lorena Ellenberger
From: Nancy Burke
To: City Clerk Dept User
Subject: Public Comment Agenda Item R.5
Date: Saturday, April 19, 2025 12:02:24 PM
This email originated from outside of the City's email system. Do not open links or attachments from untrusted sources.
This email originated from outside of the City's email system. Do not open links or attachments from untrusted sources.
I am very concerned about the approaching fire season. Especially after the fires in Los Angeles. Especially in fire prone areas of Richmond; I am worried about the illegal fireworks that are shot off every year.
It is dangerous and illegal and not a cultural issue, but a safety issue instead.
We need to inform the community of this impending danger and spread the word to everyone to not use illegal fireworks in Richmond.
Nancy Burke
May Valley, Richmond
Sent from AT&T Yahoo Mail on Android
From: Theresa Kobak
To: City Clerk Dept User
Subject: Fireworks
Date: Sunday, April 20, 2025 8:35:04 PM
This email originated from outside of the City's email system. Do not open links or attachments from untrusted sources.
[You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ]
This email originated from outside of the City's email system. Do not open links or attachments from untrusted sources.
PLEASE limit, better yet eliminate, fireworks in the name of fire prevention, veterans etc who suffer from PTSD, and animals who need protection from unnecessary traumatic sounds. The common good suggests it.
Theresa Kobak
Sent from my iPad