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RICHMOND, CALIFORNIA, July 1, 2025
Community Services Building
440 Civic Center Plaza
Richmond, CA 94804
_____________________________________________________________________ A. OPEN SESSION TO HEAR PUBLIC COMMENT BEFORE CLOSED SESSION The Richmond City Council Evening Open Session was called to order at 3:32 p.m. by Mayor Eduardo Martinez.
B. ROLL CALL
Present: Councilmembers Claudia Jimenez, Doria Robinson, Sue Wilson, Vice Mayor Cesar Zepeda, and Mayor Eduardo Martinez. Absent: Councilmembers Jamelia Brown arrived at 3:33 p.m. and Sohelia Bana arrived at 3:37 p.m.
C. CLOSED SESSION
C.1 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.2 CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR (Government Code Section 54956.8)
Property: Point Molate (site of former Naval Shipyard Depot) Agency Negotiator: Dave Aleshire
Negotiating Parties: East Bay Regional Park District & Tribe & Upstream Pt. Molate LLC
Under negotiation: Price and terms of payment
C.3 LIABILITY CLAIMS (Government Code Section 54956.9)
Claimant: Terminal One Development, LLC
C.4 CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION (paragraph (1) of Subdivision [d] of Government Code Section 54956.9) Lonnie Holmes, et al. v. City of Richmond, et al.
D. PUBLIC COMMENT BEFORE CLOSED SESSION (limited to items on the Closed Session agenda only)
The following individuals gave comments in person: Cordell Hindler, Sheila Williams, Jose Abastida, Henry Powell, Kevin Tisdell, and Stacey Walker.
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The following individuals gave comments via teleconference: John Varga, Vincent Ianiello, and Fidencio Morales.
E. ADJOURN TO CLOSED SESSION
The Open Session adjourned to Closed Session at 3:46 p.m. The Closed Session adjourned at 5:21 p.m.
F. REGULAR MEETING OF THE RICHMOND HOUSING AUTHORITY
The Regular Meeting of the Richmond Housing Authority was called to order at 5:24 p.m. by Chairperson Eduardo Martinez.
G. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Chairperson Martinez led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
H. ROLL CALL
Present: Commissioners Soheila Bana, Jamelia Brown, Claudia Jimenez, Doria Robinson, Sue Wilson, Vice Chairperson Cesar Zepeda, Chairperson Eduardo Martinez, and Tenant Commissioner Jaycine Scott. Absent: None.
I. STATEMENT OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST
None.
J. AGENDA REVIEW
None.
K. HOUSING AUTHORITY OPEN FORUM
Cordell Hindler gave comments in person.
L. HOUSING AUTHORITY CONSENT CALENDAR
Motion by Vice Chairperson Zepeda
Seconded by Commissioner Bana
To approve Item L.1 on the Housing Authority Consent Calendar Ayes (7): Commissioner Bana, Commissioner Brown, Commissioner Robinson, Commissioner Wilson, Vice Chairperson Zepeda, Chairperson Martinez, and Tenant Commissioner Scott
Absent (1): Commissioner Jimenez
Passed (7 to 1)
L.1 Contract with SWCA Environmental Consultants to perform an Environmental Review of the Richmond Village Property
ADOPT a resolution and APPROVE a contract with SWCA Environmental Consultants to perform a 24 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 50 Environmental Review of the Richmond Village property for an amount not to exceed $17,500 – Richmond Housing Authority (Antoinette Terrell 510-620-6784/Gregory Palomino 510-621-1361).
Adopted Resolution No. 2216
M. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 5:27 p.m.
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N. REGULAR MEETING OF THE RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
The Regular Meeting of the Richmond City Council was called to order at 5:27 p.m. by Mayor Martinez.
O. ROLL CALL
Present: Councilmembers Bana, Brown, Jimenez, Robinson, Wilson, Vice Mayor Zepeda, and Mayor Martinez. Absent: None.
P. STATEMENT OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST
None.
Q. AGENDA REVIEW
The following items were pulled from the Consent Calendar for discussion at the end of the agenda: Items U.1.c (amendments to Richmond Municipal Code Chapter
3.54 to add training component); U.3.a (authorize the city manager to contract for Immigration Legal Services and Public Awareness Campaign); and U.10.b (authorizing an appropriation to fund the Point Molate Bay Trail Project).
City Clerk Pamela Christian announced a correction to the recommended action for Item U.3.a, "Authorize the city manager or their designee to negotiate and execute service agreement(s) as necessary, with a minimum of three qualified fiscal sponsor(s), appropriate agencies, or service providers as necessary to ensure the timely provision of immigration legal services and related support as directed by the City Council on March 4, 2025, for up to $1,000,000."
Mayor Martinez announced changes to Item U.8.a (amending the 2025 Appointments to Committees and Liaison Positions), which included the addition of the following two ad-hoc committees: Point Molate (consisting of Councilmembers Jimenez, Robinson, and Mayor Martinez); and Terminal One (consisting of Councilmember Robinson, Vice Mayor Zepeda, and Mayor Martinez). Both ad-hoc committees would be effective for the rest of the year or until the negotiations presently being heard were addressed.
Motion by Councilmember Wilson
Seconded by Councilmember Jimenez
To move Item U.3.a immediately following the approval of the Consent Calendar.
Ayes (6): Councilmember Bana, Councilmember Brown, Councilmember Jimenez, Councilmember Robinson, Councilmember Wilson, and Vice Mayor Zepeda Noes (1): Mayor Martinez
Passed (6 to 1)
A motion by Councilmember Robinson to move the following items together from New Business to the Consent Calendar failed for the lack of a second: W.4 (visibility, preservation and protection of city-owned historic buildings and historically significant locations) and W.8 (establish a fair, open, and transparent request for proposals process to allocate the annual budget line item for unhoused services).
The council took the following separate actions to move items W.4 (visibility, preservation and protection of city-owned historic buildings and historically significant locations) and W.8 (establish a fair, open, and transparent request for proposals process to allocate the annual budget line item for unhoused services) from New Business to the Consent Calendar:
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Motion by Councilmember Wilson
Seconded by Councilmember Jimenez
To move Item W.4 to the Consent Calendar.
Ayes (6): Councilmember Bana, Councilmember Brown, Councilmember Jimenez, Councilmember Robinson, Councilmember Wilson, and Vice Mayor Zepeda Noes (1): Mayor Martinez
Passed (6 to 1)
Motion by Councilmember Jimenez
Seconded by Councilmember Robinson
To move Item W.8 to the Consent Calendar.
A friendly amendment made by Councilmember Bana to authorize the city manager to allocate travel expenses for two days for three city employees to Haven for Hope (a homeless assistance facility in San Antonio, Texas) was not accepted.
Ayes (6): Councilmember Bana, Councilmember Brown, Councilmember Jimenez, Councilmember Robinson, Councilmember Wilson, and Vice Mayor Zepeda Noes (1): Mayor Martinez
Passed (6 to 1)
Motion by Councilmember Bana
Seconded by Councilmember Brown
To move to the Consent Calendar Item W.10 (allocate $2,000 from the city event budget for the 2025 El Sobrante Stroll).
Ayes (4): Councilmember Bana, Councilmember Brown, Councilmember Robinson, and Vice Mayor Zepeda
Noes (3): Councilmember Jimenez, Councilmember Wilson, and Mayor Martinez Passed (4 to 3)
Motion by Councilmember Bana
Seconded by Councilmember Jimenez
To add an emergency item to the Consent Calendar approving a resolution affirming the rights of naturalized citizens and condemning discriminatory and politically motivated denaturalization actions that threaten constitutional protections.
Ayes (7): Councilmember Bana, Councilmember Brown, Councilmember Jimenez, Councilmember Robinson, Councilmember Wilson, Vice Mayor Zepeda, and Mayor Martinez
Passed (7 to 0)
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Motion by Councilmember Wilson
Seconded by Councilmember Jimenez
To continue Item W.7 (Community Police Review Commission’s slate of recommendations to enhance transparency, strengthen accountability, and increase trust between RPD and community) to the August 19, 2025, City Council meeting.
Ayes (7): Councilmember Bana, Councilmember Brown, Councilmember Jimenez, Councilmember Robinson, Councilmember Wilson, Vice Mayor Zepeda, and Mayor Martinez
Passed (7 to 0)
R. REPORT FROM THE CITY ATTORNEY OF FINAL DECISIONS MADE
DURING CLOSED SESSION
City Attorney Dave Aleshire reported the following:
Item C.1 (labor negotiations) was extensively discussed, and direction was given to negotiators. No reportable action.
Item C.2 (real property negotiations) Point Molate was briefly discussed. No reportable action.
Item C.3 (liability claims) Terminal One was briefly discussed. No reportable action.
Item C.4 (existing litigation) was not discussed.
S. REPORT FROM THE CITY MANAGER (public comment was allowed under Open Forum)
City Manager Shasa Curl presented a PowerPoint. Link to City Manager Report S.1 NEW EMPLOYEE REPORT - 1st Tuesday
Director of Human Resources Sharrone Taylor presented a PowerPoint. Link to New Employee Report
T. OPEN FORUM FOR PUBLIC COMMENT
(Public comment on items that remained on the Consent Calendar or items that were not on the agenda was limited to 2 minutes unless otherwise specified - Back and forth dialogue with the Council was prohibited.)
The following individuals gave comments in person:
Cordell Hindler requested that the council consider reactivating its standing committees.
Mr. Hindler gave comments regarding decorum on the dais. Mr. Hinder expressed concerns regarding the numerous new business items on agendas and the amount of time staff and presenters waited for items to be heard.
Mark Wassberg gave comments regarding the United States Constitution and immigration laws.
Jamin Pursell expressed appreciation for the auditorium lighting improvements and looked forward to audio improvements. Mr. Pursell suggested utilizing the auditorium for economic development. Mr. Pursell expressed gratitude for the Richmond Library's Rainbow Pride community outreach efforts. Mr. Pursell gave comments in support of due process for non-citizens.
Liz Woods informed the council that she had previously proposed a program similar to Item W.3 (develop and launch a 6-month Pilot program working-titled, “Clean Richmond” Community Maintenance Crews). Ms. Woods stated that she cleaned the
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Nevin Plaza Senior Apartments parking lot and outdoor sitting area at her own expense.
Ms. Woods requested monetary donations and acknowledged the city for providing trash containers. Ms. Woods recommended more police presence near Nevin Plaza to address loitering.
Don Gosney expressed concerns regarding the council moving agenda discussion items to the Consent Calendar during the meeting, and how it stifled public comment. Mr.
Gosney gave comments against Item W.10 and investing in other cities.
Bruce Beyaert requested a ruling on when Item U.10.b, which was removed from the Consent Calendar, would be heard on the agenda.
The following individuals gave comments via teleconference:
Dillon Harp announced that Richmond LAND, a Contra Costa community land trust, was leading a community-led housing resource event on August 2, 2025, in collaboration with other affordable housing entities. Additional information was available at www.RichmondLAND.org. Questions regarding sponsorships and partner donations could be directed via email to [email protected].
Rodney Brown invited the community to the 11th Annual Soulful Softball Sunday on August 24, 2025, at Nicholl Park. Mr. Brown encouraged the council to attend the event that would commence with the Third Annual Mayor's Cup Challenge.
U. CITY COUNCIL CONSENT CALENDAR
(All items placed under the Consent Calendar were considered to be routine and noncontroversial. These items were enacted upon together with a motion and second, without discussion, of any member of the City Council, and each item was deemed to have received the action recommended.)
Motion by Councilmember Robinson
Seconded by Councilmember Bana
To approve the items on the Consent Calendar
Including: an emergency item, items W.4, W.8, and W.10
Excluding: items U.1.c, U.3.a, and U.10.b
Ayes (7): Councilmember Bana, Councilmember Brown, Councilmember Jimenez, Councilmember Robinson, Councilmember Wilson, Vice Mayor Zepeda, Mayor Martinez Passed (7 to 0)
U.1 City Attorney's Office
U.1.a Legal Services Agreement Amendment No. 2 with Stoel Rives, LLP APPROVE a second amendment to the legal services agreement with Stoel Rives, LLP appropriate and adequate representation in future and pending land use and CEQA related litigation (Guidiville/Land Use), in the amount of $65,000 for a total amount not to exceed $75,000, with term ending December 31, 2026 – City Attorney’s Office (Kimberly Chin 510- 620-6709/Shannon Moore 510-620-6509).
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U.1.b Contract Amendment No. 4 to the legal services agreement with Bennett Gelini & Gelini, APC
APPROVE a fourth amendment to the legal services agreement with Bennett, Gelini & Gelini, APC, to increase compensation by $300,000, for a total amount not to exceed $859,990, with term ending December 31, 2027 – City Attorney’s Office (Kimberly Chin 510-620-6709/Shannon Moore 510-620-6505).
U.1.c Amendments to Richmond Municipal Code Chapter 3.54 to add training component
ADOPT an ordinance (second reading) amending Richmond Municipal Code Chapter 3.54 entitled “Community Police Review Commission” by adding Section 3.54.110 to establish a training program for commissioners of the Community Police Review Commission – City Attorney’s Office (Dave Aleshire 510-620-6509).
Continued to the August 19, 2025, City Council meeting.
U.2 City Council
U.2.a Resolution Urging Congress to Assert its Constitutional Authority and Prevent Future Unauthorized Military Action Against Iran ADOPT a resolution urging the United States Congress to assert its constitutional authority by passing a War Powers Resolution that reaffirms its exclusive right to declare war, and to prevent any future unauthorized military action against Iran or any other country; as the resolution also calls for a commitment to diplomacy and expresses solidarity with civilians impacted by conflict in the region, and DIRECT the city clerk to send copies of this resolution to the President of the United States, U.S.
Senators representing California, and all members of the U.S. House of Representatives representing districts in Contra Costa County - Councilmember Soheila Bana (510-672-3490)/Councilmember Doria Robinson (510-620-6568)/Councilmember Claudia Jimenez (510-620- 6565).
Adopted Resolution No. 96-25
U.3 City Manager's Office
U.3.a Authorize the City Manager to Contract for Immigrant Legal Services and Public Awareness Campaign
AUTHORIZE the city manager or their designee to negotiate and execute service agreement(s) as necessary, with qualified fiscal sponsor(s), appropriate agencies, or service providers as necessary to ensure the timely provision of immigration legal services and related support as directed by the City Council on March 4, 2025, for up to $1,000,000 – City Manager’s Office (Shasa Curl 510-620-6512).
Deputy City Manager of Community Services LaShonda White introduced the matter. Discussion ensued. The council requested the vendor application process, and to ensure the authorization allowed for a minimum of three qualified fiscal sponsor(s), appropriate agencies, or service providers. Jamin Pursell gave comments in person. The following individuals gave comments via teleconference: Ben Therriault, Andrew Melendez, Marisol Cantu, Joselyn, LoRayne Reza, and Carolina Avelar.
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Motion by Councilmember Bana
Seconded by Councilmember Jimenez
To approve said authorization for a minimum of three qualified fiscal sponsor(s), appropriate agencies, or service providers.
Ayes (7): Councilmember Bana, Councilmember Brown, Councilmember Jimenez, Councilmember Robinson, Councilmember Wilson, Vice Mayor Zepeda, and Mayor Martinez
Passed (7 to 0)
U.3.b ECIA Grant Award Recommendations for Fiscal Year 2025-26 (Category 1, 2 & 4)
APPROVE a recommendation from the Environmental & Community Investment Agreement (ECIA) Grant Review Committee for Fiscal Year 2025-2026 grant awards to 28 organizations in an amount not to exceed $750,000; ADOPT a resolution and AUTHORIZE the city manager to negotiate and execute Grant Service Agreements with approved grantees – City Manager’s Office (Patrick Seals/Nicholas Delgado 510-620-6512).
Adopted Resolution No. 97-25
U.4 Community Development
U.4.a Amendment of the City’s Tobacco Retailers Moratorium ADOPT an ordinance (second reading) amending Ordinance No. 03-25, as amended, to allow identified long-time Richmond-based retailers who once held a city tobacco retailers license to obtain such license during the moratorium — Community Development Department/Code Enforcement Division (Lina Velasco/ Eva Mann/Kevin Tisdell 510-621-1283).
Adopted Ordinance No. 15-25 N.S.
U.5 Economic Development
U.5.a Contract with RDH Building Science, Inc. for Assessment and Preliminary Rehabilitation Plan
ADOPT a resolution and APPROVE a contract with RDH Building Science, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $72,500 to conduct a facility assessment and prepare a preliminary rehabilitation plan for the Processing Building at the Point Potrero Marine Terminal, and AUTHORIZE the city manager or their designee to execute a contract with a term ending June 30, 2026 – Economic Development Department/Port Department (Charles Gerard/510-620-6792).
Adopted Resolution No. 98-25
U.5.b Contract Amendment No. 3 with W.R. Forde and Associates, Inc. for Repairs at Point Potrero Marine Terminal and Canal Boulevard APPROVE a third contract amendment with W.R. Forde and Associates Inc. in the amount of $200,000 for additional essential safety repair improvements and maintenance at the Point Potrero Marine Terminal and Canal Boulevard for a total payment limit of $616,749, with a term ending December 31, 2025 - Economic Development Department/Port
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Department/Public Works Department (Charles Gerard 510-620- 6792/Daniel Chavarria 510-620-5478).
U.5.c Contract with GRID Alternatives for Low-Income Solar Installation Services
APPROVE a sole-source contract with GRID Alternatives to continue to provide solar system installations to over 20 low-income households in Richmond in an amount not to exceed $700,000, with a three-year term beginning July 15, 2025, with an option to extend for one year - Economic Development Department (Valerie Li 510-621-1554/Samantha Carr 510- 620-5407/Nannette Beacham 510-621-1306).
U.6 Human Resources
U.6.a Contract with All Star Talent, Inc., for
APPROVE a contract with All Star Talent, Inc. for a term beginning July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2027, and a payment limit of $355,500, to design a robust virtual recruitment and marketing campaign for specialized and hard-to-fill vacancies – Human Resources (Nickie Mastay/Sharrone Taylor 510-620-6602).
U.6.b Resolution to Approve Salary Schedules in Accordance with California Code of Regulations 570.5(a) (2 CCR § 570.5)
ADOPT a resolution amending the salary schedules for all unions to comply with California Code of Regulations, Subchapter 1, Employees’ Retirement System Regulations section 570.5 (a) (2 CCR § 570.5) as required by CalPERS – Human Resources Department (Nickie Mastay/Sharrone Taylor 510-620-6602).
Adopted Resolution No. 99-25
U.6.c Contracts with Bob Murray & Associates and The Byers Group for Recruitment Services
APPROVE a contract with Bob Murray & Associates for the purpose of conducting recruitments for specialized positions with a payment limit of $34,000, and term beginning July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026, and APPROVE a second amendment to the contract with The Byers Group to increase the payment limit by $25,000, for a total payment limit of $75,000, for as-needed recruitment services - Human Resources Department (Nickie Mastay/Sharrone Taylor 510-620-6602).
U.6.d Resolution Amending Staffing (Position Control)
ADOPT a resolution amending staffing (position control) to reallocate existing positions to Paratransit Coordinator, Chief Innovation Officer, Project Coordinator (Y-Rate) and Confidential Investigator – Human Resources Department (Nickie Mastay/Sharrone Taylor 510-620-6602).
Adopted Resolution No. 100-25
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U.6.e Amend the Salary Schedule
ADOPT a resolution amending the salary schedule to add the salary range for Community Ambassador and Chief Innovation Officer, Y-rate salary range for Project Coordinator, and title change for Confidential Investigator – Human Resources Department (Nickie Mastay/Sharrone Taylor 510-620-6602).
Adopted Resolution No. 101-25
U.6.f Legal Services Agreement with Meyers Nave for Confidential and Personnel Investigative Services
APPROVE a legal services agreement with Meyer Nave for an amount not to exceed $75,000 and term of July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2027, to conduct confidential and impartial personnel investigations – Human Resources Department/City Attorney’s Office (Nickie Mastay/Sharrone Taylor 510-620-6602/Shannon Moore 510-620-6509).
U.6.g Contract Amendment No. 2 with Set-Up for Success
APPROVE a second contract amendment with Set-Up for Success with a term expiration of June 30, 2026, and an increase to the payment limit of $188,000, for a total amount not to exceed $270,500, and APPROPRIATE funds as required for continued organizational consulting services – Human Resources Department (Nickie Mastay/Sharrone Taylor/Patrick Seals 510-620-6602).
U.7 Library and Community Services
U.7.a Contract with Corovan Moving & Storage Co. to Relocate the Main Library
APPROVE a contract with Corovan Moving & Storage Co. for $49,814.84, with a term beginning July 1, 2025, and ending June 30, 2026, for moving services for relocation of materials from Richmond Main Library at 325 Civic Center Plaza to the temporary library site, and moving services for staff desks to 330 25th Street – Community Services Department (Christopher Larsen 510-620-5524/Kate Eppler 510-620- 5452/LaShonda White 510-620-6828).
U.7.b Purchase of Mobile Shelving for Temporary Civic Center Library APPROVE the purchase of 14 mobile, double-sided display shelves from Demco for a purchase price not to exceed $30,000 — Community Services Department (Christopher Larsen 510-620-5524/Kate Eppler 510- 620-5452).
U.7.c Contract Amendment No. 2 with Charleston Mobility for Electric Bikeshare Operations
APPROVE a second contract amendment with Charleston Mobility in an amount not to exceed $410,000 for a total not to exceed contract amount of $3,150,341, with a term ending September 19, 2028, to support the continued operation of the citywide electric bikeshare program; and APPROPRIATE $410,000 from the Environmental and Community Investment Agreement (ECIA) Transportation budget to cover the cost of the contract amendment – Community Services Department (LaShonda White 510-620-6828/Gabino Arredondo 510-620-6606).
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U.7.d Memorandum of Understanding with Mandated Partners of the America’s Job Centers of California (AJCC) System
APPROVE the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the City and mandated partners of the America’s Job Centers of California system and AUTHORIZE the city manager to execute the MOU – Community Services (Tamara Walker 510-307-8006).
U.8 Mayor's Office
U.8.a Amend the 2025 Appointments to Committees and Liaison Positions AMEND the appointments for the Mayor and Councilmembers to Regional Committees, Ad-Hoc Committees and Liaison Positions for the year of 2025 - Mayor’s Office (Mayor Eduardo Martinez 510-620-6503).
A correction was made during Agenda Review, adding two ad-hoc committees:
Point Molate (Councilmembers Jimenez, Robinson, and Mayor Martinez) Terminal One (Councilmember Robinson, Vice Mayor Zepeda, and Mayor Martinez)
U.8.b Proclamation Honoring the 100th Anniversary of McGlothen Temple Church of God in Christ
PROCLAMATION Honoring the 100th Anniversary of McGlothen Temple Church of God in Christ - Mayor Eduardo Martinez (510-620- 6503)/Vice Mayor Cesar Zepeda/Councilmember Doria Robinson (510- 620-6861).
U.8.c Appointment of Chad DeWitt to the Historic Preservation Commission APPOINT Chad DeWitt to the Historic Preservation Commission, with a term that expires July 31, 2026 – Mayor’s Office (Mayor Eduardo Martinez 510-620-6503).
U.9 Police Department
U.9.a Purchase of Air Purifying Respirators from LC Action APPROVE the purchase of air purifying respirators from LC Action for a total amount not to exceed $29,159.54 to ensure the safety and effectiveness operating in environments contaminated with chemical agents – Police Department (Chief Bisa French 510-621-1802).
U.9.b Purchase of Mobile Data Computers and related hardware from Duratech USA, Inc.
APPROVE the purchase of Mobile Data Computers and related hardware for an amount not to exceed $50,000 from Duratech USA, Inc. – Police Department (Chief Bisa French 510-621-1802).
U.9.c Purchase of Public Safety and Tactical Ballistic Safety Equipment from LC Action Police Supply
APPROVE the purchase of public safety and tactical ballistic safety equipment for the Police Department’s Tactical Response Team from LC Action Police Supply in an amount not to exceed $133,415.90 – Police Department (Chief Bisa French 510-621-1802).
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U.10 Public Works
U.10.a Contracts for On-Call Construction Management and Inspection Services ADOPT a resolution authorizing service contracts with five firms for as- needed construction management and inspection services, in an amount not to exceed $3,750,000 per firm, over a three-year period from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2028, with two optional one-year extension years, for a total amount not to exceed $2,500,000 per firm for the extension period – Public Works Department (Janney Lockman 510-307- 8097/Robert Armijo 510-620-5477).
Adopted Resolution No. 102-25
U.10.b Authorizing an Appropriation to Fund the Point Molate Bay Trail Project ADOPT a resolution authorizing the appropriation of $1,000,000 from the General Capital Fund to fully fund the Point Molate Bay Trail Project – Public Works Department (Robert Armijo 510-620-5477/Darcie DeLashmutt 510-672-3944).
Continued to the August 19, 2025, City Council meeting.
U.11 Rent Program
U.11.a Resolution Establishing the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Residential Rental Housing Fee
ADOPT a resolution establishing the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Residential Rental Housing Fee in the amount of $267.00 per Controlled Rental Unit and $151.00 per Partially Covered Rental Unit – Rent Program (Nicolas Traylor 510-620-6564).
Adopted Resolution No. 103-25
EMERGENCY ITEM (added to the Consent Calendar)
APPROVE a resolution affirming the rights of naturalized citizens and condemning discriminatory and politically motivated denaturalization actions that threaten constitutional protections - Councilmember Sohelia Bana (510-672-3490) and Councilmember Claudia Jimenez (510-620-6565).
Adopted Resolution No. 104-25
V. PUBLIC HEARINGS
V .1 Public Hearing for the Collection of the Sanitary and Storm Fees for Fiscal Year 2025-26
HOLD a public hearing and ADOPT a resolution approving a report of sewer service charges for Fiscal Year 2024-25 allowing for the sanitary and stormwater fees to be collected on the annual 2025-26 tax rolls – Public Works Department (Mary Phelps/Daniel Chavarria 510-620-6594).
City Clerk Pamela Christian announced that it was time, pursuant to public notice, to hold a public hearing. Director of Public Works Daniel Chavarria introduced the matter. Water Resource Manager Mary Phelps gave an oral report. Mayor Martinez declared the public hearing open. There were no public speakers.
Mayor Martinez closed the public hearing. Discussion ensued.
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Motion by Councilmember Bana
Seconded by Councilmember Brown
To adopt said resolution for the collection of sanitary and stormwater fees.
Ayes (7): Councilmember Bana, Councilmember Brown, Councilmember Jimenez, Councilmember Robinson, Councilmember Wilson, Vice Mayor Zepeda, and Mayor Martinez
Passed (7 to 0)
Adopted Resolution No. 105-25
W. NEW BUSINESS
W.1 Grand Jury Report No. 2503 Regarding Staffing Challenges Facing the Richmond Police Department
APPROVE the City of Richmond’s response to the 2024- 2025 Contra Costa Civil Grand Jury Report No. 2503 entitled “Staffing Challenges Facing the Richmond Police Department: Diminishing Funds and Fewer Officers” and submittal of the response to the Contra Costa Grand Jury – City Manager’s Office (Shasa Curl 510-620-6512/Bisa French 510-621-1802).
Deputy City Manager of Community Services LaShonda White introduced the matter. Mrs. White and Chief of Police Bisa French presented a PowerPoint.
Link to Responses to Grand Jury Report presentation. The following individuals gave comments in person: Cordell Hindler, Mark Wassberg, and Liz Woods. The following individuals gave comments via teleconference: Julie Salamon, Ben Therriault, Raymond Wendell, Emily Ross, Andrew Melendez, Carmen Martinez, and Marisol Cantu. Discussion ensued. The council suggested modifying the response to finding #F8 regarding the reallocation of Richmond Police Department funds, resulting in the downsizing or elimination of specialized investigative units. The council requested the following: a future report on the quantitative cost difference between recruiting, training, and retaining police officers; attach to the response a list of the police units and positions that decreased as a result of finding #F8; clearly define what the financial shift in finding #F8 did to the Police Department; and communicate more strongly in the city's response, that the findings appeared to be from people who were not elected by Richmond voters that made decisions for how the city spent taxpayers money or the city's approach to public safety in Richmond.
Motion by Councilmember Bana to postpone the response and request an extension died for the lack of a second.
Motion by Councilmember Robinson
Seconded by Councilmember Brown
To approve the report as is with a link to the council's discussion. Link A friendly amendment made by Mayor Martinez, to include in the report statements made by Councilmembers Jimenez and Wilson was not accepted.
Ayes (6): Councilmember Bana, Councilmember Brown, Councilmember Jimenez, Councilmember Robinson, Vice Mayor Zepeda, and Mayor Martinez Noes (1): Councilmember Wilson
Passed (6 to 1)
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W.2 Update and Approve the Richmond Green-Blue New Deal (GBND) Top-Five Priority Projects over the Next 5 Years.
RECEIVE a written update on the Richmond Green-Blue New Deal project prioritization process and APPROVE the top five priority projects - Economic Development Department (Yahna Williamson 510-620-6574/Samantha Carr 510- 620-5407/ Nannette Beacham 510-620-1306). This item was continued from the June 17, 2025, and June 24, 2025, meetings.
Environmental Manager Samantha Carr introduced the matter. Management Analyst Yahna Williamson presented a PowerPoint. Link to Richmond Green- Blue New Deal Update presentation. Cordell Hindler and Jamin Pursell gave comments in person. Discussion ensued. The council requested or suggested the following: an annual reporting process that included the consideration, treatment, and review of emergent project ideas; training and immediate access to the job market related to wildfire home hardening and Zone 0 laws; incorporate zero-emission infrastructure; look into onshore wind; and consider including councilmembers in the acknowledgments.
Motion by Vice Mayor Zepeda
Seconded by Councilmember Brown
To approve the item.
Ayes (5): Councilmember Brown, Councilmember Jimenez, Councilmember Robinson, Vice Mayor Zepeda, and Mayor Martinez
Noes (1): Councilmember Bana
Absent (1): Councilmember Wilson
Passed (5 to 2)
W.3 Develop and Launch a 6-month Pilot Program working-titled, “Clean Richmond” Community Maintenance Crews
DIRECT staff to identify a funding source and issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) to identify a nonprofit partner to launch a 6-month pilot program working- titled “Clean Richmond” Community Maintenance Crew. The program will prioritize Transitional Age Youth (TAY) and sunset six months after the start date.
During the pilot period, staff will hire four full-time equivalent (FTE) positions in Public Works – Councilmember Jamelia Brown (510-412-2050). This item was continued from the June 17, 2025, and June 24, 2025, meetings.
Councilmember Brown introduced the matter. The following individuals gave comments in person: Pam Saucer, Jamin Pursell, and Cordell Hindler. Arto Rinteela gave comments via teleconference. Discussion ensued. The council requested or suggested the following: incorporate the four Public Works new hires on the timeline; develop a pipeline to full-time employment; consider returning with a plan for a similar program through a combination of Richmond YouthWORKS and Public Works; add to the RFP professional development skills, workshops, and classes that would be part of the program; and provide a definitive timeline.
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Motion by Councilmember Bana
Seconded by Councilmember Brown
To approve the item with the suggestions made to include professional development in the RFP as part of the program.
Ayes (5): Councilmember Bana, Councilmember Brown, Councilmember Jimenez, Councilmember Robinson, and Vice Mayor Zepeda
Noes (2): Councilmember Wilson and Mayor Martinez
Passed (5 to 2)
W.4 Visibility, Preservation and Protection of City-Owned Historic Buildings and Historically Significant Locations
DIRECT City staff to work with the Historic Preservation Commission and community groups to:
Formalize and publicly share a verified list of city-owned historic buildings and historically significant locations.
Create a process to accept nominations, review and if warranted, install commemorative signage on City-owned historic structures and important locations of cultural memory (e.g., the former site of the International Hotel). Additionally, the City should offer to coordinate and assist with the installation of plaques or historical markers for privately owned historic buildings and sites, provided the property owners are willing. This will help commemorate important places regardless of ownership and ensure the community's history remains visible and celebrated. Develop and implement basic preservation measures to protect city-owned historic buildings from vandalism and fire damage.
Explore grant and partnership opportunities to support preservation efforts, with support from the Historic Preservation Commission and local history organizations.
Create a staff led and City Council approved process to evaluate whether any of the identified historic buildings require additional site-specific protection measures that would involve new budget allocations. Rather than mandating uniform maintenance rules, evaluate each structure’s preservation needs individually, based on historical significance, community interest, and available resources.
Provide a status update to the City Council within 180 days on progress made, challenges encountered, and next steps for implementation - Councilmember Soheila Bana (510-672-3490)/Councilmember Doria Robinson (510-672-1387). This item was continued from the June 17, 2025, and June 24, 2025, meetings.
Item W.4 was moved to the Consent Calendar and approved.
W.5 Presentation from Futuro Health -Healthcare Career Training RECEIVE a presentation from Futuro Health and ADOPT a resolution authorizing the allocation of up to $22,700 from an identified funding source to eliminate financial barriers for up to 100 Richmond residents accepted into Futuro Health career training programs by covering mandatory application, background check, and drug screening fees - Councilmember Jamelia Brown (510-412-2050) /
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Councilmember Sue Wilson (510-609-2111). This item was continued from the June 24, 2025, meeting.
Councilmember Brown introduced the matter. Rashaad Pritchett, representing Service Employees International Union-United Healthcare Workers, presented a PowerPoint. Link to Futuro Healthcare Opportunities presentation.
Discussion ensued.
Motion by Mayor Martinez
Seconded by Vice Mayor Zepeda
To direct staff to explore a resolution to disperse $22,700 from an identified funding source into healthcare career training programs, and return to the council in September 2025.
Ayes (7): Councilmember Bana, Councilmember Brown, Councilmember Jimenez, Councilmember Robinson, Councilmember Wilson, Vice Mayor Zepeda, and Mayor Martinez
Passed (7 to 0)
W.6 Annual Update on Sidewalk Vending Program
RECEIVE a presentation on the first-year implementation of the City’s Sidewalk Vending Program and PROVIDE direction to staff regarding program priorities and potential revisions to the ordinance – Public Works Department (Andy Cho 510-620-6547/Robert Armijo 510-620-5477).
Deputy Director of Public Works/City Engineer Robert Armijo introduced the matter. 4LEAF Code Enforcement Manager Alejandra Molina and Senior Engineer Andy Cho presented a PowerPoint. Link to Sidewalk Vendor Program Update Report. The following individuals gave comments in person:
Erick Sanchez, Estefany Sanchez, Alan Tellez, Jamin Pursell, and Veronica Martinez. Discussion ensued. The council requested or suggested the following:
staff work with existing vendors to develop criteria for the council's consideration that would enable vendor compliance; vendors and patrons should not utilize private property; resolve vendor location address discrepancies; do not allow vendors to sell to passing vehicles; more clearly define "entrance to a business" and restrict street vendor proximity; there should be no street vending where there was only one brick and mortar for similar products; provide reference to the council's previous recommendations on this matter including feedback from the 23rd Street Merchants Association; explore other locations for street vending similar to The Lot that would allow more days; follow up with the county regarding the permitting process for street food vendors and commercial kitchen use; raise awareness of street vending diversity and inclusivity; reconsider vendor permits near no stopping zones or other businesses and ensure there was parking space for patrons; evaluate how the ordinance effected legacy and existing street vendors; and consider an agreement with vendors for sidewalk damages.
W.7 Community Police Review Commission’s slate of recommendations to enhance transparency, strengthen accountability, and increase trust between RPD and community.
DISCUSS and APPROVE the eight (8) recommendations of the Community Police Review Commission (CPRC), begin a necessary “meet and confer” process with the Richmond Police Officer’s Association, and take next appropriate steps to update the ordinance to expand the CPRC jurisdiction, complaint procedures,
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and public access to information, and to increase the CPRC budget – City Attorney’s Office (Dave Aleshire 510-620-6509).
Continued to the August 19, 2025, City Council meeting.
W.8 Establish a fair, open, and transparent RFP process to allocate the annual budget line item for unhoused services.
DIRECT staff to 1) develop, coordinate and facilitate a bi-annual community process for reviewing and providing feedback and setting annual priorities for current city funded unhoused interventions; 2) Develop an RFP process to govern the procurement process for the allocation of unhoused services funds; 3) Develop financial strategy to offer multi-year funding and increase annual funding for unhoused interventions, and 4) Return to City Council with related deliverables listed herein for council review, feedback and approval, by no later than November 4th, 2025, so that implementation can begin by no later than January 31, 2026 - Councilmember Doria Robinson (510-620-6568), Councilmember Claudia Jimenez (510-620-6565).
Item W.8 was moved to the Consent Calendar and approved.
W.9 Presentation from Levitree for Nature-Based Solutions for Sea-Level Rise RECEIVE a presentation from Levitree to learn about possible nature-based solutions to help Richmond’s shoreline with sea level rise and ground water infiltration - Vice Mayor Cesar Zepeda (510-620-6593).
Continued to the August 19, 2025, City Council meeting.
W.10 Allocate $2,000 from City Event Budget for the 2025 El Sobrante Stroll APPROVE a resolution authorizing the allocation of $2,000 from the City of Richmond’s allotted event budget to support the 2025 El Sobrante Stroll - Councilmember Soheila Bana (510-672-3490)/Councilmember Doria Robinson (510-620-6568)/Councilmember Jamelia Brown (510-609-5780).
Item W.10 was moved to the Consent Calendar and approved.
X. REPORTS OF OFFICERS: REFERRALS TO STAFF, AND GENERAL REPORTS (INCLUDING AB 1234 REPORTS)(limited to two minutes per Councilmember) None.
Y. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 11:03 p.m., to meet again on August 19, 2025, at 6:30 p.m.
Pamela Christian, Clerk of the City of
Richmond
Eduardo Martinez, Mayor