Page | 1 City Council Meeting Minutes (March 18, 2025)
CITY OF SAN JUAN BAUTISTA
CITY COUNCIL
UNOFFICIAL MEETING MINUTES
MARCH 18, 2025
1. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Jordan called the regular meeting to order at 5:31 p.m. in the Council Chambers, 311 Second Street, San Juan Bautista California.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Councilmember Morris-Lopez led the pledge of allegiance.
ROLL CALL Present:
Councilmember Jose Aranda – arrived at 5:39 p.m.
Councilmember Scott Freels
Councilmember Jackie Morris-Lopez
Mayor Pro Tem EJ Sabathia – left at 9:13 p.m.
Mayor Leslie Q. Jordan
Absent:
Staff Present:
Ashley Collick, Interim City Manager
Jon R Giffen, City Attorney
Elizabeth Soto, City Clerk
Also Present:
Roy Morales, Public Safety Coordinator
Ilse Lopez-Narvaez, Associate Planner
2. CLOSED SESSION – 5:00 P.M. – 6:00 P.M.
The City Council will recess to closed session pursuant to:
a. Conference with Legal Counsel—Existing Litigation – Orozco v. City of San Juan Bautista, et al. (California Government Code section 54956.9(d)(1)) b. Conference with Legal Counsel—Existing Litigation – Kurasaki v. City of San Juan Bautista, et al. (California Government Code section 54956.9(d)(1)) City Attorney Giffen reported that item b would be withdrawn.
Mayor Jordan recessed to closed session at 5:03 p.m.
Mayor Jordan reconvened the meeting at 6:01 p.m.
City Attorney Giffen reported that the City Council met in closed session and pointed out that item b was withdrawn, and that there was no reportable action.
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3. PUBLIC COMMENT
Received comments from the following members of the public:
Bill Adam
Shawna Freels
4. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT
A. Treasurer’s Report and Monthly Financial Statements
Wendy Cumming, CPA, presented the Financial report for the period ending January 2025.
No public comments were received.
5. CONSIDERATION
A. San Benito Leadership Institute Sponsorship
Recommendation: Approve a one-time Sponsorship to the San Benito Leadership Institute (SBLI) for $5,000 to Help Support the 2025-26 Leadership Program.
Brenda Weatherly, San Benito County Leadership Institute, provided an overview of the Leadership Institute program. The program would have nine full day seminars running from September 2024 through May 2025. The program would cover various civic issues such as arts and culture, economic development, education, justice and safety, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. It also includes leadership development modules on topics like emotional intelligence, self-awareness, stress management, and diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Councilmember Aranda asked how long the council had been supporting the leadership program and clarified that this current year was the first year of support.
Councilmember Freels expressed concern about the application process for nonprofits and questioned why the Leadership Institute was coming to the front of the line when there was an agreed-upon process for funding nonprofits. He emphasized the importance of following the established application process and not allowing any group to bypass it. He also asked about the financial contributions from Aromas.
Councilmember Morris-Lopez thanked the organization for their work in the community and congratulated the San Juan Bautista resident that currently is going through program.
Mayor Pro Tem Sabathia expressed support for the program and mentioned that he remembered discussions about having a process to review all requests at once. He emphasized the importance of reviewing all requests in an orderly manner.
Interim City Manager Collick provided clarification on the funding and application process, mentioning that there were funds set aside from the previous year and that the council had approved funds for the current fiscal year. He confirmed that the application process was still being developed and that there were funds available for the program.
No public comments were received.
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6. CONSENT
A. Approve the Affidavit of Posting Agenda
B. Waive Reading of Resolutions and Ordinances on the Agenda Beyond Title C. Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) Cycle 12 Award Recommendation: Approve a Resolution accepting the Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) Cycle 12 award of $349,588 for the implementation of the pedestrian and traffic safety improvements along 2nd Street.
D. General Plan Annual Progress Report (APR) and The Housing Element (HE) Annual Progress Report for 2024
Recommendation: Approve a RESOLUTION Accepting the General Plan (GP) Annual Progress Report (APR) and the Housing Element (HE) APR for 2024, and submit the GP APR and the HE APR to the Governor's Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation (LCI), and the California Housing and Community Development (HCD).
E. Women’s History Month, March 2025
Recommendation: Proclaim March 2025 as Women's History Month and "Celebrate Women Who Tell Our Stories,” Recognizing the women whose work in literature, journalism, art, film, and other forms of storytelling has inspired change, fostered understanding, and amplified women's voices worldwide.
F. Approve the Regular Meeting Minutes of February 18, 2025 MOTION:
Upon motion by Mayor Pro Tem Sabathia, second by Councilmember Morris-Lopez, the consent calendar items A, B, and D, were approved.
AYES: Councilmembers: Aranda, Freels, Morris-Lopez, Sabathia, and Mayor Jordan; NOES:
None; ABSTAIN: None; ABSENT: None
Mayor Pro Tem Sabathia
Councilmember Morris-Lopez
Item No. C. Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) Cycle 12 Award The following members of the public
Wanda Guibert, San Juan Bautista Historical Society
MOTION:
Upon motion by Mayor Pro Tem Sabathia, second by Councilmember Aranda, a Resolution accepting the Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) Cycle 12 award of $349,588 for the implementation of the pedestrian and traffic safety improvements along 2nd Street, was approved.
AYES: Councilmembers: Aranda, Freels, Morris-Lopez, Sabathia, and Mayor Jordan; NOES:
None; ABSTAIN: None; ABSENT: None
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Item No. F. Approve the Regular Meeting Minutes of February 18, 2025 Mayor Jordan pointed out that Mayor Pro Tem Sabathia should be noted as absent MOTION:
Upon motion by Mayor Pro Tem Sabathia, second by Councilmember Aranda, the Regular Meeting Minutes of February 18, 2025, were approved as amended.
AYES: Councilmembers: Aranda, Freels, Morris-Lopez, Sabathia, and Mayor Jordan; NOES:
None; ABSTAIN: None; ABSENT: None
Item No. E. Women’s History Month, March 2025
MOTION:
Upon motion by Councilmember Morris-Lopez, second by Councilmember Freels, the City proclaimed March 2025 as Women's History Month.
AYES: Councilmembers: Aranda, Freels, Morris-Lopez, Sabathia, and Mayor Jordan; NOES:
None; ABSTAIN: None; ABSENT: None
Mayor Jordan recessed to a short break at 6:54 p.m. and reconvened at 7:01 p.m.
7. ACTION ITEMS
A. Hollister Fire Services Agreement No. 1
Interim City Manager Ashley Collick an overview of the proposed amendment to the fire services agreement between San Juan Bautista and the City of Hollister. The amendment requests an additional payment of $150,000 for fiscal year 2024-25, increasing the budget from $268,279 to $468,279. Starting in fiscal year 2025-26, the contract amount will increase by 11% annually until June 2028.
The contract amounts for each fiscal year are specified as:
FY 2024-25: $418,279.00
FY 2025-26: $464,289.69
FY 2026-27: $515,361.56
FY 2027-28: $572,051.33
The payment schedule will shift from a calendar year model to a fiscal year model, running from July 1 to June 30. The contract will terminate on June 30, 2028, unless terminated earlier due to non-payment. The amendment reduces staffing levels at the San Juan Bautista fire station from three firefighters to two. The staffing levels within Hollister and other jurisdictions will be determined at Hollister's sole discretion. The contract may only be terminated by Hollister if San Juan Bautista fails to make payments within 60 days of receiving written notice.
Councilmember Aranda questioned the rationale behind reducing the staffing from three to two firefighters and emphasized the importance of maintaining adequate coverage.
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The Fire Chief clarified that he was not involved in the negotiations that led to the proposed reduction in staffing levels at the San Juan Bautista fire station from three firefighters to two. He was informed of the changes only recently and could not provide specific reasons for the decision.
The Chief explained the significant difference in operational capacity between a three-person engine company and a two-person engine company. He emphasized that reducing staffing would limit the ability to perform critical tasks effectively and safely, particularly during emergencies such as structure fires or rescues. He noted that the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards recommend four-person engine companies, highlighting the challenges of operating with fewer personnel.
The Chief expressed concerns that reducing staffing levels could jeopardize existing auto aid agreements with neighboring jurisdictions, such as South Santa Clara County Fire. Reciprocity is a key factor in these agreements, and a reduction in staffing could lead to the loss of mutual support from other agencies. The Chief discussed the potential impact of major events, such as the Hollister biker rally and the 4th of July, on fire services. He explained that additional staffing and resources would be required during these events, which could further strain the already limited resources available to San Juan Bautista.
The Chief highlighted the increased response times and potential risks to public safety, property, and firefighter safety due to reduced staffing levels. He emphasized the importance of having adequate personnel to respond effectively to emergencies.
David Mirrione, the City Manager of Hollister, explained that the original terms of the fire service agreement were presented to San Juan Bautista in August 2024 but were contingent upon reaching an agreement with San Benito County. The Hollister City Council did not vote on the agreement until the county's terms were finalized. The ad hoc committee formed by the Hollister City Council provided direction for the amendment changes, which included reducing staffing levels at the San Juan Bautista fire station from three firefighters to two.
Hollister City Manager Mirrione clarified that the Hollister City Council reviewed the terms of the amendment during their meeting the previous night and approved them via consensus. He noted that the county's Board of Supervisors reviewed the terms during their meeting earlier in the day and voted to bring the agreement back for formal approval.
Hollister City Manager Mirrione stated that the staffing reduction was part of the direction provided by the ad hoc committee, which consisted of two Hollister City Councilmembers. The ad hoc committee negotiated with the county and provided recommendations to the Hollister City Council.
Hollister City Manager Mirrione clarified that while the current contract included a provision for negotiating a lease for the San Juan Bautista fire station, the Hollister City Council had previously failed to approve the lease agreement in a 2-3 vote. Despite this, Hollister continued to pay the lease for several years without a formal agreement. The new amendment removes the lease provision. He explained that the urgency in approving the amendment stemmed from the April 5th deadline for providing a 270-day termination notice under the current contract. If the Page | 6 City Council Meeting Minutes (March 18, 2025)
amendment is not approved, the current contract will automatically roll over for another year.
Councilmember Aranda expressed frustration over the lack of transparency and the short notice given about the reduction. He advocated for rejecting the amendment and insisted that San Juan Bautista should have direct representation—including the fire chief and a knowledgeable Councilmember—in future negotiations. Councilmember Aranda criticized the lack of collaboration between Hollister and the county, urging all parties to come together and work through the issues face-to-face.
Councilmember Freels stressed the operational inefficiencies and increased risks of transitioning to a two-person engine company, including the potential loss of auto-aid agreements.
Councilmember Freels recommended tabling the vote and investigating whether the committee’s actions were legally appropriate.
Councilmember Morris-Lopez felt the city was being used as leverage in broader negotiations between Hollister and the county, a recurring issue in past dealings. She stressed the need to maintain a three-firefighter staffing level. Councilmember Morris-Lopez supported rejecting the amendment and advocated for renewed talks involving all stakeholders, including the fire chief and city manager.
Mayor Pro Tem Sabathia questioned the accuracy of data used in negotiations, pointing out that calls from the San Juan Bautista station frequently serve county areas, which may skew financial assessments. He was shocked that the fire chief was excluded from the discussions and underscored the chief's value in shaping the contract. Sabathia proposed adding language to the contract to hold all parties accountable for the feasibility study process.
Mayor Jordan expressed disappointment over the lack of notice and the exclusion of San Juan Bautista from key negotiations. Mayor Jordan felt the city had acted in good faith but was blindsided by the proposed changes. warned of the dangers posed by reduced staffing, including slower response times and increased risks to firefighter safety. Mayor Jordan questioned the committee’s authority and transparency, calling for future negotiations to include San Juan Bautista representatives, the fire chief, and city leadership.
The council was united in its frustration with the negotiation process—citing poor transparency, inadequate representation, and significant safety concerns tied to staffing reductions. The proposed amendment was unanimously rejected, with the council calling for inclusive, transparent, and collaborative future negotiations.
The following members of the public commented on the report:
Mia Casey criticized the negotiation process and was not in favor of the amended contract.
John Freeman suggested rejecting the contract.
Eddie Guaracha supported the delay of the contract and asked if the ad hoc committee was subject to the public records request.
Jim Leibold is not in favor of approval of the contract.
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Substitute motion made by Mayor ProTem Sabathia to reject the proposed amendment to the fire services contract as it was written, and requested that the two members of San Juan Bautista's ad hoc committee for fire protection services be allowed to negotiate with the county and the city of Hollister representatives. Councilmember Morris-Lopez added that the City Manager should be included in the negotiations.
The substitute motion effectively rejected the proposed amendment and set clear conditions for future negotiations, ensuring transparency, expert input, and proper representation for San Juan Bautista.
SUBSTITUTE MOTION:
Upon motion by Maor Pro Tem Sabathia, second by Councilmember Freels, rejecting the Amended Contract, and requesting the two City of San Juan Bautista Ad Hoc members, the Fire Chief and San Juan Bautista City Manager participate in the negotiations with the City of Hollister and the County of San Benito representatives, was approved.
AYES: Councilmembers: Aranda, Freels, Morris-Lopez, Sabathia, and Mayor Jordan; NOES:
None; ABSTAIN: None; ABSENT: None
Mayor Jordan recess to a short break at 8:32 p.m., and reconvened the meeting at 8:41 p.m.
9. INFORMATIONAL ITEMS AND REPORTS
A. City Manager’s Report
Interim City Manager Ashley Collick presented the report. Interim City Manager announced that there will be an in-service training scheduled for April 19, 2025, which include staff development initiatives and team meetings.
No public comments were received.
a. Fire Department Update –
The presentation was provided by Public Safety Coordinator Roy Morales as part of his report. b. Sheriff Department Update –
The presentation was provided by Public Safety Coordinator Roy Morales as part of his report. c. Public Safety Department Update –
Roy Morales, Public Safety Coordinator reported on the Sheriff's Office, Fire Department, and Code Enforcement Department activity for February 2025. The Request for Proposals (RFP) was approved by all bodies. Fourth of July, similar to last year, there are no special events that will require street closure. Process of hiring security. Has been in communication with Sgt. Penney.
Has been working with the Enterprise Fleet Management. It is a vehicle replacement program.
There will be a “pool” car for use when attending meetings and conferences.
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No public comments were received.
d. Recreation Department Update
Item tabled to the next meeting.
B. Reports from City Council Representatives to Regional Organizations and Committees
Councilmembers Aranda, Freels, Morris-Lopez, and Mayor Jordan reported on the regional meetings they attended.
C. City Council Announcements
The City Council reported on upcoming events.
10. ADJOURNMENT
Motion to adjourn the meeting by Councilmember Freels, second by Councilmember Aranda.
All in favor. Mayor Pro Tem Sabathia was absent.
There being no other business, Mayor Jordan adjourned the meeting at 9:44 p.m.
APPROVED:
_____________________
Leslie Q. Jordan, Mayor
ATTEST:
______________________
Elizabeth Soto, City Clerk