E. "Code Enforcement Division" shall mean the Building Inspection Division.
F. "Mayor" shall mean the Mayor of the City of Union City.
15.80.040 Violation and Infraction.
Section 1.8.9 is amended by the addition of Section 1.8.9.3 to read as follows:
A citation may be issued in accordance with the Union City Municipal Code Section 1.16.030. A person charged with an infraction is guilty of a separate offense for each and every day during which any violation of any provision of this chapter of the Union City Municipal Code is continued, and can be cited each day as a separate offense.
The infraction procedure provides for the following fines:
First citation infraction $150.00
Second citation infraction $300.00
Third citation misdemeanor $600.00
Court costs may also be imposed in addition to the infractions and/or misdemeanor fines.
Individuals cited are not entitled to legal representation for the first or second citation infraction.
Upon the third citation/misdemeanor, individuals cited may be represented by legal counsel in a court of law.
15.80.050 Violation a Nuisance.
Section 1.8.9 is amended by the addition of Section 1.8.9.4 to read as follows:
It is hereby found and declared that the existence of a violation of any of the foregoing sections of this Chapter within the City of Union City is a public nuisance and dangerous to the public health and safety of persons within said City, and in addition to any other remedies provided by law, the Union City Police Department or appropriate legal officer is authorized and directed to investigate any such nuisance, to notify in the form and manner hereinabove provided any person or persons maintaining such nuisance, to abate same in conformance to the provisions of this Chapter, and upon failure to comply, to enter upon said premises, public or private wherein said nuisance exists and summarily abate same.
15.80.060 Unconstitutionality.
If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase of this Code is, for any reason, held to be unconstitutional, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Code. The Legislative Body hereby declares that it would have passed this Code, and each section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, sentences, clauses, or phrases be declared unconstitutional. 240 of 305 Ordinance No. 2025-XXX
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15.80.070 Fees.
Section 1.8.4.2 is amended to read as follows:
Fees shall be assessed as set forth in the fee schedule adopted by the City of Union City.
15.80.080 Board of Appeals.
Section 1.8.8 is amended to read as follows:
The Board of Appeals shall be comprised of one or more hearing officers appointed by the City Council. The decision of the appointed hearing officer(s) is final as to any related Appeals Board and City Council actions.
15.80.090 Structure Moving Permits.
Section 1.8.10.2 is amended by the addition of Section 1.8.10.2.1 to read as follows:
In addition to other permits required by this Code, no person, firm or corporation shall move or cause to be moved any building or structure from any location, lot, piece, or parcel of land located within or without the corporate limits of the City of Union City to any other lot, piece or parcel of land located within the incorporated territory of the City of Union City without first having obtained a separate structure moving permit for each building or structure to be moved, pursuant to Chapter 15.70 of the Union City Municipal Code.
15.80.160 Automatic Fire Sprinkler Systems.
Section R313 is amended to read as follows:
Where Required. An automatic fire extinguishing system shall be installed in the occupancies and locations as set forth in the Union City Fire Code, Chapter 15.20.
15.80.200 Prohibit the use of gypsum board and Portland cement plaster as prescriptive wall bracing materials.
Section R602.10.4, Table R602.10.3(3), and Section R602.10.4.4 are amended, and Footnote g is added to read as follows:
g. In Seismic Design Categories C, D0, D1, and D2, Method GB and method PCP is not permitted.
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Add the “g” footnote notation in the title of Table R602.10.3(3).
Add a new subsection R602.10.4.4, to read as follows:
In Seismic Design Categories C, D0, D1, and D2, Method GB and PCP are not permitted for use as intermittent braced wall panels.
15.80.205 All concrete footings and stem walls shall have steel reinforcement.
Section R403.1.3.5 is amended by the addition of section R403.1.3.5.5 to read as follows:
Concrete footings, including post-tension design, shall have minimum reinforcement of at least two continuous horizontal reinforcing bars, one top and one bottom, not smaller than No. 4 bars. Bottom reinforcement shall be located a minimum of 3 inches (76 mm) clear from the bottom of the footing. Plain concrete footings are not allowed. 243 of 305
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ATTACHMENT 3
Chapter 15.81
EXISTING BUILDING CODE
15.81.010 Adoption by Reference.
A. The 2025 California Existing Building Code and State of California Amendments, published by the California Building Standards Commission, and all revisions and amendments heretofore and here after adopted by the California Building Standards Commission, are hereby adopted by reference as the Existing Building Code of the City of Union City, regulating the erection, installation, alteration, repair, relocation replacement, addition to, use or maintenance of buildings within the City of Union City.
B. One copy of said Code and appendices thereto has been filed for use and examination by the public in the office of the City Clerk of the City of Union City at 34009 Alvarado-Niles Road, Union. City, California, and the same or identical copy thereof, not less than one in number, shall at all times be kept on file for similar use.
C. The rules, regulations, provisions, requirements, orders, and matters established and adopted hereby shall take effect and be in full force on January 1, 2026.
15.81.020 Title.
This Chapter may be cited and shall be known as the "Existing Building Code of the City of Union City."
15.81.030 Definitions.
Whenever any of the names or terms defined in this section are in the Chapters or Codes adopted herein by reference, each such term or name shall have the meaning ascribed to it in this Section.
A. "Administrative Authority" shall mean the Building Inspection Division, Economic and Community Development Department.
B. "Building Official" shall mean the Chief Building Official of the City of Union City.
C. "City" shall mean the "City of Union City."
D. "City Council" shall mean the City Council of the City of Union City. 245 of 305
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E. "Code Enforcement Division" shall mean the Building Inspection Division.
F. "Mayor" shall mean the Mayor of the City of Union City.
15.81.040 Violation and Infraction.
CEBC Section 104 is amended by the addition of Section 104.12 to read as follows:
A citation may be issued in accordance with the Union City Municipal Code Section
1.16.030. A person charged with an infraction is guilty of a separate offense for each and every day during which any violation of any provision of this chapter of the Union City Municipal Code is continued, and can be cited each day as a separate offense.
The infraction procedure provides for the following fines:
First citation infraction $150.00
Second citation infraction $300.00
Third citation misdemeanor $600.00
Court costs may also be imposed in addition to the infractions and/or misdemeanor fines.
Individuals cited are not entitled to legal representation for the first or second citation infraction.
Upon the third citation/misdemeanor, individuals cited may be represented by legal counsel in a court of law.
15.81.050 Violation a Nuisance.
CEBC Section 101 is amended by the addition of Section 101.13 to read as follows:
It is hereby found and declared that the existence of a violation of any of the foregoing sections of this Chapter within the City of Union City is a public nuisance and dangerous to the public health and safety of persons within said City, and in addition to any other remedies provided by law, the Union City Police Department or appropriate legal officer is authorized and directed to investigate any such nuisance, to notify in the form and manner hereinabove provided any person or persons maintaining such nuisance, to abate same in conformance to the provisions of this Chapter, and upon failure to comply, to enter upon said premises, public or private wherein said nuisance exists and summarily abate same.
15.81.060 Unconstitutionality.
If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase of this Code is, for any reason, held to be unconstitutional, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Code. The Legislative Body hereby declares that it would have passed this Code, and each section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, sentences, clauses, or phrases be declared unconstitutional. 247 of 305
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15.81.070 Fees.
CEBC Section 108 is amended by the addition of section 108.2.1 to read as follows:
Fees shall be assessed as set forth in the fee schedule adopted by the City of Union City.
15.81.080 Board of Appeals.
CEBC Section 112 is deleted and amended to read as follows:
The Board of Appeals shall be comprised of one or more hearing officers appointed by the City Council. The decision of the appointed hearing officer(s) is final as to any related Appeals Board and City Council actions.
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ATTACHMENT 4
Chapter 15.84
GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE
15.84.010 Adoption by Reference.
A. The 2025 California Green Building Standards Code and State of California Amendments, published by the California Building Standards Commission, and all revisions and amendments heretofore and here after adopted by the California Building Standards Commission, are hereby adopted by reference as the Green Building Standards Code of the City of Union City, regulating the erection, installation, alteration, repair, relocation replacement, addition to, use or maintenance of buildings within the City of Union City.
B. One copy of said Code and appendices thereto has been filed for use and examination by the public in the office of the City Clerk of the City of Union City at 34009 Alvarado-Niles Road, Union. City, California, and the same or identical copy thereof, not less than one in number, shall at all times be kept on file for similar use.
C. The rules, regulations, provisions, requirements, orders, and matters established and adopted hereby shall take effect and be in full force on January 1, 2026.
15.84.020 Title.
This Chapter may be cited and shall be known as the "Green Building Standards Code of the City of Union City."
15.84.030 Definitions.
Whenever any of the names or terms defined in this section are in the Chapters or Codes adopted herein by reference, each such term or name shall have the meaning ascribed to it in this Section.
A. "Administrative Authority" shall mean the Building Inspection Division, Economic and Community Development Department.
B. "Building Official" shall mean the Chief Building Official of the City of Union City.
C. "City" shall mean the "City of Union City."
D. "City Council" shall mean the City Council of the City of Union City. 250 of 305
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E. "Code Enforcement Division" shall mean the Building Inspection Division.
F. "Mayor" shall mean the Mayor of the City of Union City.
15.84.040 Violation and Infraction.
CGBCA Section 101 is amended by the addition of Section 101.12 to read as follows:
A citation may be issued in accordance with the Union City Municipal Code Section
1.16.030. A person charged with an infraction is guilty of a separate offense for each and every day during which any violation of any provision of this chapter of the Union City Municipal Code is continued, and can be cited each day as a separate offense.
The infraction procedure provides for the following fines:
First citation infraction $150.00
Second citation infraction $300.00
Third citation misdemeanor $600.00
Court costs may also be imposed in addition to the infractions and/or misdemeanor fines.
Individuals cited are not entitled to legal representation for the first or second citation infraction.
Upon the third citation/misdemeanor, individuals cited may be represented by legal counsel in a court of law.
15.84.050 Violation a Nuisance.
CGBCA Section 101 is amended by the addition of Section 101.13 to read as follows:
It is hereby found and declared that the existence of a violation of any of the foregoing sections of this Chapter within the City of Union City is a public nuisance and dangerous to the public health and safety of persons within said City, and in addition to any other remedies provided by law, the Union City Police Department or appropriate legal officer is authorized and directed to investigate any such nuisance, to notify in the form and manner hereinabove provided any person or persons maintaining such nuisance, to abate same in conformance to the provisions of this Chapter, and upon failure to comply, to enter upon said premises, public or private wherein said nuisance exists and summarily abate same.
15.84.060 Unconstitutionality.
If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase of this Code is, for any reason, held to be unconstitutional, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Code. The Legislative Body hereby declares that it would have passed this Code, and each section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, sentences, clauses, and phrases be declared unconstitutional.252 of 305 Ordinance No. 2025-XXX
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15.84.070 Fees.
CGBCA Section 101 is amended by the addition of section 101.14 to read as follows: Fees shall be assessed as set forth in the fee schedule adopted by the City of Union City.
15.84.080 Board of Appeals.
CGBCA Section 101 is amended by the addition of Section 101.15 to read as follows: The Board of Appeals shall be comprised of one or more hearing officers appointed by the City Council. The decision of the appointed hearing officer(s) is final as to any related Appeals Board and City Council actions.
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ATTACHMENT 5
Chapter 15.48
PLUMBING CODE
15.48.010 Adoption by Reference.
A. The California Plumbing Code 2025 Edition, (Based on 2024 Uniform Plumbing Code), and Appendices A, B, and G, thereto, published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, and all revisions and amendments heretofore and hereafter adopted by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, are hereby adopted by reference as the Plumbing Code of the City of Union City, regulating the erection, installation, alteration, repair, relocation replacement, addition to, use or maintenance of plumbing systems within the City of Union City.
B. One copy of said Code and appendices thereto has been filed for use and examination by the public in the office of the City Clerk of the City of Union City at 34009 Alvarado-Niles Road, Union City, California, and the same or identical copy thereof, not less than one in number, shall at all times be kept on file for similar use.
C. The rules, regulations, provisions, requirements, orders, and matters established and adopted hereby shall take effect and be in full force on January 1, 2026.
15.48.020 Title.
This Chapter may be cited and shall be known as the “Plumbing Code of the City of Union City.”
15.48.030 Definitions.
Whenever any of the names or terms defined in this section are in the Chapters or Codes adopted herein by reference, each such term or name shall have the meaning ascribed to it in this Section.
A. “Administrative Authority” shall mean the Building Inspection Division, Economic and Community Development Department.
B. “Building Official” shall mean the Chief Building Official of the City of Union City.
C. “City” shall mean the City of Union City
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D. “City Council” shall mean the City Council of the City of Union City.
E. “Code Enforcement Division” shall mean the Building Inspection Division.
F. “Mayor” shall mean the Mayor of the City of Union City.
15.48.040 Violation and Infraction.
Section 1.8.9 is amended by the addition of Section 1.8.9.3 to read as follows:
A citation may be issued in accordance with the Union City Municipal Code Section
1.16.030. A person charged with an infraction is guilty of a separate offense for each and every day during which any violation of any provision of this chapter of the Union City Municipal Code is continued, and can be cited each day as a separate offense.
The infraction procedure provides for the following fines:
First citation infraction $150.00
Second citation infraction $300.00
Third citation infraction $600.00
Court costs may also be imposed in addition to the infractions and/or misdemeanor fines.
Individuals cited are not entitled to legal representation for the first or second citation infraction.
Upon the third citation/misdemeanor, individuals cited may be represented by legal counsel in a court of law.
15.48.050 Violation a Nuisance.
Section 1.8.9 is amended by the addition of Section 1.8.9.4 to read as follows:
It is hereby found and declared that the existence of a violation of any of the foregoing sections of this Chapter within the City of Union City is a public nuisance and dangerous to the public health and safety of persons within said City, and in addition to any other remedies provided by law, the Union City Police Department or appropriate legal officer is authorized and directed to investigate any such nuisance, to notify in the form and manner herein above provided any person or persons maintaining such nuisance, to abate same in conformance to the provisions of this Chapter, and upon failure to comply, to enter upon said· premises, public or private wherein said nuisance exists and summarily abate same.
15.48.060. Unconstitutionality.
If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase of this Code is, for any reason, held to be unconstitutional, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Code. The Legislative Body hereby declares that it would have passed this Code, and each section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or 257 of 305
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more sections, subsections, sentences, clauses, or phrases be declared unconstitutional.
15.48.070 Fees.
Section 1.8.4.2 is amended to read as follows:
Fees shall be assessed as set forth in the fee schedule adopted by the City of Union City.
15.48.80 Water Piping In or Under Concrete Slab Floors.
Section 609.3 is amended to read as follows:
Water piping SHALL NOT be installed in or under a concrete floor slab within a building without prior approval of the Administrative Authority. When approved, such piping shall be installed in accordance with Sections 609.3(1) and 609.3(2).
15.48.100 Board of Appeals.
Section 1.8.8 is amended to read as follows:
The Board of Appeals shall be comprised of one or more hearing officers appointed by the City Council. The decision of the appointed hearing officer(s) is final as to any related Appeals Board and City Council actions.
15.48.110 Underground Water Pipe Protection.
Section 609.3 is amended by the addition of section 609.3.1 to read as follows:
All metallic water piping installed underground shall be protected by a plastic sleeve. 258 of 305
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ATTACHMENT 6
Chapter 15.52
MECHANICAL CODE
15.52.010 Adoption by Reference.
A. The California Mechanical Code 2025 Edition, with State of California amendments, (Based on 2024 Uniform Mechanical Code), published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, and all revisions and amendments heretofore and hereafter adopted by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, are hereby adopted by reference as the Mechanical Code of the City of Union City, regulating the erection, installation, alteration, repair, relocation replacement, addition to, use or maintenance of mechanical systems within the City of Union City.
B. One copy of said Code and appendices there to has been filed for use and examination by the public in the office of the City Clerk of the City of Union City at 34009 Alvarado-Niles Road, Union City, California, and the same or identical copy thereof, not less than one in number, shall at all times be kept on file for similar use.
C. The rules, regulations, provisions, requirements, orders, and matters established and adopted hereby shall take effect and be in full force on January 1, 2026.
15.52.020 Title.
This Chapter may be cited and shall be known as the “Mechanical Code of the City of Union City.”
15.52.030 Definitions.
Whenever any of the names or terms defined in this section are in the Chapters or Codes adopted herein by reference, each such term or name shall have the meaning ascribed to it in this Section.
A. "Administrative Authority" shall mean the Building Inspection Division, Economic and Community Development Department.
B. “Building Official” shall mean the Chief Building Official of the City of Union City.
C. “City” shall mean the “City of Union City.”
D. “City Council” shall mean the City Council of the City of Union City. 260 of 305
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E. “Code Enforcement Division” shall mean the Building Inspection Division.
F. “Mayor” shall mean the Mayor of the City of Union City.
15.52.040 Violation and Infraction.
Section 1.8.9 is amended by the addition of Section 1.8.9.3 to read as follows:
A citation may be issued in accordance with the Union City Municipal Code Section
1.16.030. A person charged with an infraction is guilty of a separate offense for each and every day during which any violation of any provision of this chapter of the Union City Municipal Code is continued, and can be cited each day as a separate offense.
The infraction procedure provides for the following fines:
First citation infraction $150.00
Second citation infraction $300.00
Third citation infraction $600.00
Court costs may also be imposed in addition to the infractions and/or misdemeanor fines.
Individuals cited are not entitled to legal representation for the first or second citation infraction.
Upon the third citation/misdemeanor, individuals cited may be represented by legal counsel in a court of law.
15.52.050 Violation a Nuisance.
Section 1.8.9 is amended by the addition of Section 1.8.9.4 to read as follows:
It is hereby found and declared that the existence of a violation of any of the foregoing sections of this Chapter within the City of Union City is a public nuisance and dangerous to the public health and safety of persons within said City. In addition to any other remedies provided by law, the Union City Police Department or appropriate legal officer is authorized and directed to investigate any such nuisance, to notify in the form and manner herein above provided any person or persons maintaining such nuisance, to abate same in conformance to the provisions of this Chapter, and upon failure to comply, to enter upon said premises, public or private, wherein said nuisance exists and summarily abate same.
15.52.060 Unconstitutionality.
If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase of this Code is, for any reason, held to be unconstitutional, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Code. The Legislative Body hereby declares that it would have passed this Code, and each section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase thereof irrespective of the fact that anyone or more sections, subsections, sentences, clauses, and phrases be declared unconstitutional. 262 of 305
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15.52.070 Fees.
Section 1.8.4.2 is amended to read as follows:
Fees shall be assessed as set forth in the fee schedule adopted by the City of Union City.
15.52.080 Board of Appeals.
Section 1.8.8 is amended to read as follows:
The Board of Appeals shall be comprised of one or more hearing officers appointed by the City Council. The decision of the appointed hearing officer(s) is final as to any related Appeals Board and City Council actions.
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ATTACHMENT 7
Chapter 15.44
ELECTRICAL CODE
15.44.010 Adoption by Reference.
A. The California Electrical Code 2025 Edition, (Based on 2020 National Electrical Code), Appendices thereto, including the General Code Provisions Article 89, for the National Electrical Code, published by the National Fire Protection Association, and all revisions and amendments heretofore and hereafter adopted by the National Fire Protection Association, are hereby adopted by reference as the Electrical Code of the City of Union City, regulating the erection, installation, alteration, repair, relocation replacement, addition to, use or maintenance of electrical building systems within the City of Union City.
B. One copy of said Code and appendices thereto has been filed for use and examination by the public in the office of the City Clerk of the City of Union City at 34009 Alvarado-Niles Road, Union City, California, and the same or identical copy thereof, not less than one in number, shall at all times be kept on file for similar use.
C. The rules, regulations, provisions, requirements, orders, and matters established and adopted hereby shall take effect and be in full force on January 1, 2026.
15.44.020 Title.
This Chapter may be cited and shall be known as the “Electrical Code of the City of Union City.”
15.44.030 Definitions.
Whenever any of the names or terms defined in this section are in the Chapters or Codes adopted herein by reference, each such term or name shall have the meaning ascribed to it in this Section.
A. "Administrative Authority" shall mean the Building Inspection Division, Economic and Community Development Department.
B. "Building Official" shall mean the Chief Building Official of the City of Union City.
C. "City" shall mean the "City of Union City.”
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D. "City Council" shall mean the City Council of the City of Union City.
E. "Code Enforcement Division" shall mean the Building Inspection Division.
F. "Mayor" shall mean the Mayor of the City of Union City.
15.44.040 Violation and Infraction.
CEC Section 89.108.9 is amended by the addition of Section 89.108.9.3 to read as follows:
A citation may be issued in accordance with the Union City Municipal Code Section
1.16.030. A person charged with an infraction is guilty of a separate offense for each and every day during which any violation of any provision of this chapter of the Union City Municipal Code is continued, and can be cited each day as a separate offense.
The infraction procedure provides for the following fines:
First citation infraction $150.00
Second citation infraction $300.00
Third citation misdemeanor $600.00
Court costs may also be imposed in addition to the infractions and/or misdemeanor fines.
Individuals cited are not entitled to legal representation for the first or second citation infraction.
Upon the third citation/misdemeanor, individuals cited may be represented by legal counsel in a court of law.
15.44.050 Violation a Nuisance.
CEC Section 89.108.9 is amended by the addition of Section 89.108.9.4 to read as follows:
It is hereby found and declared that the existence of a violation of any of the foregoing sections - of this Chapter within the City of Union City is a public nuisance and dangerous to the public health and safety of persons within said City, and in addition to any other remedies provided by law, the Union City Police Department or appropriate legal officer is authorized and directed to investigate any such nuisance, to notify in the form and manner herein above provided any person or persons maintaining such nuisance, to abate same in conformance to the provisions of this Chapter, and upon failure to comply, to enter upon said premises, public or private, wherein said nuisance exists and summarily abate same.
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15.44.060 Unconstitutionality.
If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase of this Code is, for any reason, held to be unconstitutional, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Code. The Legislative Body hereby declares that it would have passed this Code, and each section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, sentences, clauses, or phrases be declared unconstitutional.
15.44.070 Fees.
CEC Section 89.108.4.2 is amended to read as follows:
Fees shall be assessed as set forth in the fee schedule adopted by the City of Union City.
15.44.080 Board of Appeals.
CEC Section 89.108.8 is amended to read as follows:
The Board of Appeals shall be comprised of one or more hearing officers appointed by the City Council. The decision of the appointed hearing officer(s) is final as to any related Appeals Board and City Council actions.
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ATTACHMENT 8
Chapter 15.20
FIRE CODE
15.20.010 Adoption by reference.
The 2025 California Fire Code and State of California Amendments, Volume 1 (Based on the 2024 International Code) including sections, 103.2, 104, 105.5.41, 108.2 114,311.2, 503 and Appendices B, C, D, thereto published by the International Code Council (ICC) Country Club Hill, IL., and all revisions and amendments theretofore and hereafter adopted by the International Code Council, as codified in Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations, are adopted by reference and made part of this Code as if fully set forth except as hereinafter modified as the Fire Code of the City of Union City pursuant to the provisions of Government Code Section 50020. et. seq., State of California.
One copy of the Code and Appendices thereto has been filed for use and examination by the public in the office of the City Clerk, 34009 Alvarado-Niles Road, Union City, California.
The rules, regulations, provisions, requirements, orders, and matters established and adopted hereby shall take effect and be in full force on January 1, 2026.
15.20.020 Title.
Code means the California Fire Code, as defined by law and amended by the City of Union City. This code, as amended, shall be known and may be cited as the “Union City Fire Code” or “UCFC” and will be referred to in this Title as “this code”.
15.20.030 Section 103.2, Appointment.
Section 103.2 is amended to read as follows:
103.2 Appointment. The fire code official shall be appointed by the fire chief of the jurisdiction, and the fire code official shall not be removed from office except for cause and after full opportunity to be heard on specific and relevant charges by and before the appointing authority.
15.20.040 Section 104.6, Official Records.
Section 104.7 is amended to read as follows:
104.7 Official Records. The City of Union City shall keep official records as required by Sections 104.7.1, 104.7.2, 104.7.4, 104.7.5, and 104.7.6. Such official records shall be retained for not less than five years or for as long as the structure or activity to which such records relate remains in existence, unless otherwise provided by other regulations.
Section 104.7.3 is amended to read as follows:
104.7.3 Fire Records. The fire department shall keep a record of fires occurring within the City of Union City and of facts concerning the same, including statistics as to the extent of such fires and the damage caused thereby.
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15.20.050 Fees-Amended.
Section 108.2 is amended to read as follows:
108.2 Schedule of Permit Fees. The City Council may, by resolution, establish a schedule of nondiscriminatory fees to be charged and collected for plans submitted under Section 105.6, solely to defray the City’s reasonable costs for plan review of fire protection equipment and systems, requested or required inspection service, and issuance of permits. Permits issued in accordance with Section 105.5 shall be valid for a prescribed period of time or until renewed or revoked.
15.20.060 Section 113.4, Violation Penalties.
Section 113.4 is amended to read as follows:
113.4 Violations Penalties.
a. Persons who shall violate a provision of this code or shall fail to comply with any of the requirements thereof, or who shall erect, install, alter, repair, or do work in violation of the approved construction documents or directive or the fire code official or of a permit or certificate used under provisions of this code, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. Notwithstanding the preceding sentence, a violation of this code may, in the discretion of the fire code official, be charged and prosecuted as an infraction.
b. Any person convicted of a misdemeanor under this code shall be punished by a fine of not more than one thousand dollars, or by imprisonment, not to exceed six months, or by both such fine and imprisonment.
c. Any person convicted of an infraction under this code shall be subject to payment of a fine pursuant to the terms set forth in State of California Government Code Section 36900, as that section or its successor reads at the time of the offense. After a third conviction for violation of the same section of this code, subsequent violations of the same section may be charged as a misdemeanor rather than an infraction.
d. Each such person is guilty of a separate offense for each and every day during any portion of which any violation of this code is committed, continued, or permitted by any such person, and shall be punished accordingly.
e. Notwithstanding sections a-d to the contrary, any violation of this code may, at the discretion of the fire code official, be treated as an administrative violation and enforced pursuant to Chapter
1.18 of the Union City Municipal Code.
Approval of a request for the use of alternative material, assembly, or materials, equipment, method of construction, method of installation of equipment, or means of protection shall be limited to the case covered by the request and shall not be construed as establishing any precedent for any future request.
Whenever any construction or installation work is being performed in violation of the plans and specifications as approved, a written notice shall be issued to the responsible party to stop work on that portion of the work which is in violation. The notice shall be issued to the responsible party to stop work on that portion of the work which is in violation. The notice shall state the nature of the violations, and no work shall be done on that portion of the project until the violation has been corrected.
Where work for which a permit is required by this chapter is started or proceeds prior to obtaining such permit, a penalty fee, in addition to the permit fee, shall be assessed as follows:
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Ordinance No. 2025-XXX
2025 Building Code Update Ordinance
Violation within Two-Year Period Penalty Fee
First Equal to the permit fee
Second Double the permit fee
Third Ten times the permit fee
The payment of such penalty fee shall not relieve any person from fully complying with all the provisions of this chapter.
15.20.070 Section 114, Stop work order.
Section 114.4 is amended to read as follows:
114. Stop Work Order. Whenever any installation of fire protection devices covered by this Code is concealed without first having been inspected, the fire code official may require, by written notice, that such work shall be exposed for inspection.
Any person who shall continue any work after having been served with a stop work order, except such work as that person is directed to perform to remove a violation or unsafe conditions, shall be subject to fines established by the City of Union City under section 113.4 of this code.
15.20.080 Automatic sprinkler systems Chapter 9.
Sections 903.2, 903.2.1, 903.2.2, 903.2.3, 903.2.4, 903.2.7, 903.2.8, 903.2.9, 903.2.10, are amended to read as follows:
903.2 Where Required. Approved automatic sprinkler systems in new buildings and structures shall be provided in locations described in Sections 903.2.1 through 902.2.12 and Sections 903.2.14 through 903.2.21
903.2.1 Group A. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in all Group A occupancies. (Sections 903.2.1.1, 903.2.1.2, 903.2.1.3, 903.2.1.4, 903.2.1.5, 903.2.1.6, and 903.2.1.7are deleted) 903.2.2 Group B. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in all Group B occupancies. (Sections 90.3.2.2.1 and 903.2.2.2 are deleted)
903.2.3 Group E. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in all Group E Occupancies. 903.2.4 Group F. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in Group F occupancies. (Section 903.2.4.1, 903.2.4.2 and 903.2.4.3 are deleted)
903.2.7 Group M. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in all Group M occupancies. (Section 903.2.7.1, 903.2.7.2, and 903.2.7.3 are deleted). 903.2.8 Group R. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in all Group R occupancies, including modular units. (Section 903.2.8.1 and 903.2.8.3 are deleted). 903.2.9 Group S-1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in all Group S-1 occupancies. (Sections 903.2.9.1, 903.2.9.2, 903.2.9.3, and 903.2.9.4 are deleted) 903.2.10 Group S-2. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in all Group S-2 occupancies. 273 of 305
Ordinance No. 2025-XXX
2025 Building Code Update Ordinance
(Sections 903.2.10.1 and 903.2.10.2 are deleted).
15.20.090 Section 903.6, Where required in existing buildings and structures.
Section 903.6 is amended to read as follows:
903.6 Where required in existing buildings and structures. All occupancies where modifications are being requested, regardless of the reason, shall require an automatic fire extinguishing system to be installed in the entire structure. When one of the following conditions exists:
1. When more than 50% of the exterior walls and the roof are being removed or replaced.
2. When the existing fire area is increased by more than 50%.
3. When an addition to a single-family home causes the structure to exceed 2,500 square feet in fire area.
4. When required by Chapter 11.
5. When the estimated value of modifications is more than 50 percent (50%) of the value of the structure. 274 of 305
RESOLUTION NO 2025-XXX
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF UNION CITY
FINDING AND DETERMINING THE NEED FOR LOCAL AMENDMENTS
TO PROVISIONS IN THE CALIFORNIA BUILDING STANDARDS CODE
AS ADOPTED BY THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA, IN THE CALIFORNIA CODE OF REGULATIONS, TITLE 24, TO BE ADOPTED BY
REFERENCE IN THE UNION CITY MUNICIPAL CODE
WHEREAS, Health and Safety Code Section 18938 makes provisions published in the California Building Standards Code pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 17922 applicable to all occupancies throughout the State and effective one hundred and eighty days after publication by the California Building Standards Commission (the "Commission"), or at a later date established by the Commission; and WHEREAS, California Health and Safety Code Sections 17958, 17958.5, 17958.7, and 18941.5 establish the authority for the City to adopt and make local amendments and modifications to the building standards in the California Building Standards Code to establish more restrictive building standards than those contained in the California Building Standards Code; and
WHEREAS, California Health and Safety Code Sections 17958, 17958.5, 17958.7, and 18941.5 permit the City to make such local amendments and modifications as the City determines are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, or topographical conditions; and
WHEREAS, California Health and Safety Code Sections 17958, 17958.5, 17958.7, and 18941.5 require the City, before making any amendments and modifications to the California Building Standards Code, to create an express finding that such amendments and modifications are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, or topographical conditions; and
WHEREAS, under Health and Safety Code Section 17958.7, changes pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 17958.5 may not become effective until the required findings and the changes have been filed with the California Building Standards Commission; and
WHEREAS, Government Code Section 50022.2 permits enactment of City Ordinances that adopt codes or statutes, including codes of the State of California, by reference; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Union City (the City Council) intends to adopt an ordinance adopting by reference provisions of the California Building Standards Code, with local amendments; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has reviewed the reasons for proposed changes to the California Building Standards Code set forth in this Resolution.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Union City hereby resolves, declares, and finds that the local amendments to the provisions of the California Building Standards Code as set forth below are reasonably necessary 275 of 305
because of local climatic, geologic, or topographical conditions in conformance with its obligations under Section 17958.7 of the California Health and Safety Code:
I. General Findings of Local Conditions
The City of Union City has unique climatic, geographic, and topographical characteristics that adversely affect the prevention of loss of life and property due to fire and seismic motion. Local soils have a relatively high acidic content, which tends to corrode underground metallic pipes.
A. Climate. The typical late summer and autumn combination of little or no precipitation, low humidity, high temperatures, and prevailing winds creates extremely hazardous conditions, particularly as they relate to wood shake and shingle roofing and conflagrations. In building fires, winds can literally push flames back into the building, creating a blowtorch effect that exacerbates “natural” and cross-ventilation efforts.
B. Geography. The relatively young geographical processes that created the San Francisco Bay Area are still active today. Union City sits astride the Hayward Fault and is very near numerous potentially active faults. The Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) estimates the probability of a severe earthquake along the Hayward Fault over the next 30 years as one in four. Furthermore, ABAG projects that damage along the Hayward fault will vary from moderate to extreme, depending on the location of structures and earthquake magnitude.
C. Topography. Union City is built atop the younger alluvial deposits that surround the Bay Area. Areas near the Bay are overlain by unconsolidated fine silty clay known as Bay Mud, which varies in thickness from a few feet to as much as thirty (30) feet. This alluvium can and will amplify the effects of future earthquakes.
Alluvial deposits underlying Union City and other adjacent jurisdictions are, in some locations, high in acidity and pH imbalance and are considered "hot soils" by engineers.
Such "hot" soils are highly corrosive to all types of metal, including cast-iron plumbing, when installed in the ground without cathodic protection and/or other expensive protection.
Summarily, Local climatic, geographic, and topographic conditions impact fire prevention efforts and potential damage to structures from seismic forces and likely subsequent fires.
Soil
composition also affects the performance of buildings in earthquakes and contributes to the failure of
plumbing systems in the ground. Therefore, it is reasonable and prudent to modify the current state model codes to mitigate the effects of these local conditions.
II. Pursuant to Sections 17958.5 and 17958.7 of the State of California Health and Safety Code, the City Council of the City of Union City makes the finding that changes, modifications, and amendments to the 2022 Edition of the California Building Standards Codes are needed and are reasonably necessary because of certain local climatic, geologic and topographic features and conditions as described in Section I above, and that those features and conditions, under certain circumstances, affect delivery of emergency services. The amendments to the California Building Standards Codes are enacted to mitigate the impact of those local features and conditions by (i) preventing the chance of accident or injury by requiring standards more stringent than required by the 276 of 305
current codes; and (ii) requiring additional built-in automatic fire protection systems, which will provide for early detection and initial fire control.
III. The following changes and/or modifications to the 2025 California Building Standards Code are found to be necessary to mitigate the impacts caused by the local climatic, geologic, and topographic conditions. The City of Union City has adopted substantive changes and modifications to the California Building Standards Code as follows:
Union City
Municipal Code
Chapter
California Code Section Findings
Chapter 15.20
CA Fire Code-CCR Title 24 Part 9
Sections: 103.2. 104.6, 104.6.3, 106.2,
109.4, 112.1, 903.2, 903.2.1, 903.2.3,
903.2.4, 903.2.7, 903.2.8 and 903.2.9
and 903.6
The following sections are added:
5614.1, 5614.2, 5614.3, 5614.4, and
5614.5
Section I. A, B, and C
Chapter 15.40
CA Building Code-CCR Title 24 Part 2
Sections: 1.8.4.2, 1.8.8, 1.8.9, 1.8.10,
14.1.4, 502.1, 901.1, 1705.3 and
1905.1.7 ACI 318
The following sections are added:
1.8.9.3, 1.8.9.4, 1.8.10.3 and 901.1.1
Section I. A, B, and C
Chapter 15.44
CA Electrical Code-CCR Title 24 Part 4
Sections: 89.108.4.2, 89.108.8,
89.108.9
The following sections have been added:
89.108.9.3 and 89.108.9.4
Section I. A, B, and C
Chapter 15.48
CA Plumbing Code-CCR Title 24 Part 6
Sections: 1.8.4.2, 1.8.8, 1.8.9 and 609.3
The following sections are added:
1.8.9.3, 1.8.9.4, and 609.3.1
Section I. A, B, and C
Chapter 15.52
CA Mechanical Code-CCR Title 24 Part
5 Sections: 1.8.4.2, 1.8.8 and 1.8.9
The following sections are added: 1.8.9.3
and 1.8.9.4
Section I. A, B, and C
Chapter 15.80
CA Residential Code-CCR Title 24 Part
3 Sections: 1.8.4.2, 1.8.8, 1.8.9, 1.8.10.2,
R313, R403.1.3.5, R602.10.4, Table
R602.10.3(3) and R602.10.4.4
The following sections are added:
1.8.9.3, 1.8.9.4, 1.8.10.2.1 and
R403.1.3.5.5
Section I. A, B, and C
Chapter 15.81 CA Existing Building Code-CCR Title
24 Part 10
Sections: 101, 104, 108, and 112
Section I. A, B, and C
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Union City
Municipal Code
Chapter
California Code Section Findings
The following sections are added:
108.2.1
Chapter 15.84 CA Green Building Standards CodeCCR Title 24 Part 11 Sections: 101
The following sections are added:
101.13, 101.14, and 101.15
Section I. A, B, and C
The aforementioned amendments have been incorporated in detail in Ordinance 2025- XX.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this Resolution shall be filed with the California Building Standards Commission in accordance with Health and Safety Code Section 17958.7.
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PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Union City at a regular meeting held on the 28th day of October 2025, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
APPROVED:
GARY SINGH
Mayor
ATTESTED: APPROVED AS TO FORM:
THAI NAM N. PHAM
City Clerk
KRISTOPHER J. KOKOTAYLO
City Attorney
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Item 5.2.
Introduce Ordinance Repealing and Replacing Certain
Chapters of the Union City Municipal Code to Adopt the
2025 California Building Codes With Local Amendments
and Adopt a Resolution For Local Amendments
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2 • The California Building Standards Code sets forth uniform standards for the construction and maintenance of buildings, electrical systems, plumbing systems, mechanical systems, and fire and life safety systems.
• The Code applies to all cities and counties in California and is updated every three years.
• Local governments may amend the provisions of the code upon findings that such amendments are necessary due to either climatic, geological, or topographical conditions.
Background
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3 • The Code was last updated in 2022.
• The 2025 Building Standards Code goes into effect on January 1, 2026. • The City must adopt an ordinance to incorporate any local amendments into the Building Code.
• Contemporaneously, the City must make certain findings that support the need to adopt local amendments.
Background
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4 • The Ordinance will repeal and replace Chapters15.20, 15.40, 15.44,
15.48, 15.52, 15.80, 15.81, and 15.84 of Title 15 to incorporate the 2025 Building Codes with Local Amendments.
• Proposed local amendments to 2025 Building Codes are substantially same as the City’s local amendments for the 2022 Building Codes. • Moratorium under AB 130 provides an exception, inter alia, for previously filed local amendments with no material change. • The proposed ordinance includes general findings of local conditions necessary to justify local amendments.
Proposed Ordinance
Proposed Ordinance
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5 • The proposed Ordinance includes adoption of the following building codes by reference:
• California Building Code– CCR Title 24 Part 2
• California Residential Code– CCR Title 24 Part 3
• California Electrical Code– CCR Title 24 Part 4
• California Mechanical Code– CCR Title 24 Part 5
• California Plumbing Code– CCR Title 24 Part 6
• California Fire Code– CCR Title 24 Part 9
• California Existing Building Code– CCR Title 24 Part 10 • California Green Building Standards Code– CCR Title 24 Part 11 Proposed Ordinance
Proposed Ordinance
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6 • The proposed Resolution includes findings that support the need for local amendments.
• Such amendments are reasonably necessary due to local climatic, geologic, or topographical conditions as required under state law.
Proposed Resolution
Proposed Resolution
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7 Waive full reading and introduce by title only an ordinance to repeal and replace chapters 15.20, 15.40, 15.44, 15.48, 15.52, 15.80, 15.81, and
15.84 Title 15, Building and Construction, of the Union City Municipal Code to incorporate the 2025 California Building Codes with local amendments and adopt a resolution finding and determining the need for local amendments are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geologic, or topographical conditions, in accordance with California Health and Safety Code Section 17958.7.
Recommendation
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City Council Staff Report Page 1 of 4 October 28, 2025
Agenda Item No. 5.3
DATE: October 28, 2025
TO: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
FROM: Joan Malloy, City Manager
SUBJECT: Receive a Report on the Recommendations from the Revenue Review Ad Hoc Subcommittee and Provide Policy Direction
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
In September 2025, the City Council formed the Revenue Review Ad Hoc Subcommittee (the “Subcommittee”) to review revenue streams to the City, with an interest in updating the Citywide Landscape and Lighting Assessment District No. 3 (“LLAD No. 3”) and considering an extension and possible amendment of the Utility Users Tax (“UUT”). The Subcommittee also considered a tax on vacant properties to discourage the idle use of property, increasing the Cannabis Tax, and reestablishing a Public Safety Parcel Tax.
The Subcommittee has concluded its initial evaluation and is seeking City Council concurrence on the recommendations and approach for the next steps.
STRATEGIC PLAN ALIGNMENT
Goal A. Financial Stability and Sustainability - Foster fiscal health through disciplined long-term planning, cost control, heightened efficiency, increased revenue, and cost recovery.
Strategy 9. Pursue the placement of a voter-approved revenue measure on a ballot to address the funding gap between revenues and expenditures for fundamental public safety and other city services.
BACKGROUND
On September 9, 2025, the City Council received a report that provided an overview of the legal process to modify or increase the assessment for the LLAD No. 3 and a highlevel overview of other potential revenue options. The City’s General Fund has consistently subsidized the costs for maintaining the improvements in LLAD No. 3, as the assessments in LLAD No. 3 have not increased since 1996 and have not kept up with inflation and increased costs.
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Agenda Item No. 5.3
City Council Staff Report Page 2 of 4 October 28, 2025
After receiving the report, staff recommended that the City Council consider forming a Revenue Review Ad Hoc Subcommittee consisting of two Council Members to review revenue options and return with a recommendation for Council consideration. The City Council voted to form the Subcommittee, and Mayor Singh appointed himself and Councilmember Nishihira to the Subcommittee (Resolution No. 2025-128) to consider several revenue options that could help support general maintenance of the landscape and lighting, and other service needs of the community.
On October 7, 2025, the Subcommittee met to review several revenue options, including submitting to property owners the question of whether to increase the assessment in LLAD No. 3 pursuant to the procedures outlined in Proposition 218; renewing and possibly amending the UUT; a tax on vacant properties; increasing the tax on cannabis sales; and a Public Safety Parcel Tax.
DISCUSSION
The Subcommittee concluded that the UUT is the priority revenue measure that should be evaluated for viability for voter consideration for renewal on the November 2026 ballot due to its December 31, 2028, expiration date. The UUT generates approximately $6.6 million annually, which is directly supported through the General Fund for public safety (police and fire) services, street and park maintenance, recreational programming, and the City's general operations. To lose this funding would require cutbacks to services. Waiting until the election cycle of November 2028, approximately one month from the expiration date, would create a great deal of budgetary and staffing uncertainty.
After reviewing the timeline to amend the LLAD No. 3, the Subcommittee concluded that it could be pursued at any time and is not tied to a November election cycle. The Subcommittee determined that an amendment to the LLAD No. 3 would be best considered for 2027 so it would not interfere with the City Council’s evaluation of the UUT. The timing of LLAD No. 3 will realistically take up to ten months to perform the necessary outreach and education, prepare and revise the assessments (Engineer's Report), and have the City Council take all actions necessary to update LLAD No. 3.
While there was interest in a tax on vacant properties, it was recognized that more data and research are needed. The purpose of a tax on vacant properties is to prompt property owners to develop their properties and to discourage property owners from leaving buildings or units vacant. This research aims to evaluate whether the tax should be applied to commercial/industrial properties only or also include vacant residential properties. It will assess the number of vacant properties that the tax would impact, consider the administration of the measure to track and tax vacant properties, and determine the revenue potential from the measure. Additionally, targeting another election season would allow time for legal certainty, as there is current litigation related to San Francisco’s “empty homes” measure.
The Subcommittee reviewed the Cannabis Ordinance, Section 3.24.050(D)(3). It concluded that the retail tax could be increased from four percent to six percent as soon as possible since it is not tied to an election cycle and only needs City Council approval. This would raise approximately $200,000 of additional General Fund revenue. The City Council may want to consider providing advance notice to current 289 of 305 Agenda Item No. 5.3
City Council Staff Report Page 3 of 4 October 28, 2025
cannabis operators regarding its intent to consider any tax increase, allowing operators to provide input and prepare for any forthcoming increase.
The Subcommittee also explored a Public Safety Parcel Tax (PSPT); however, as a special tax with funds earmarked for public safety services, the measure would require two-thirds (66.7%) voter approval, which is a high threshold. In March 2020, a renewal measure for the existing PSPT was defeated by voters (62.5% Yes), and polling conducted in 2023-24 showed that achieving two-thirds support would be difficult. The Subcommittee concluded that a PSPT should not be pursued at this time.
The City Council previously adopted Resolution No. 2025-128 authorizing the Subcommittee to work with staff and the City’s consultants to prepare an analysis and recommendations related to LLAD No. 3 and other potential revenue options identified in the September 9, 2025 staff report.
The Subcommittee recommends that the City Council:
1) Pursue the UUT placement for the November 2026 ballot. a) Seek Council authority for the Subcommittee to work with the consultants to prepare a UUT survey, set the parameters in the survey to consider possible increases, and test the timeframe for the renewal.
b) Consider any other program modifications (such as additional utilities that could include water and/or sewer).
2) Target 2027 to amend the LLAD No. 3.
3) Increase the Cannabis Tax as soon as possible.
4) Prepare a framework for the necessary research on taxing vacant properties and pursue this effort independently for future consideration, especially considering the ongoing litigation against San Francisco’s tax. This analysis was not included in the Biennial Budget; therefore, a budget amendment may be needed. 5) Do not pursue a PSPT at this time.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact to the General Fund based upon the Subcommittee’s recommendations, as contracts have been executed with the consultant team to evaluate possible revenue options, survey voters’ opinions, and conduct community outreach that would be associated with one measure.
If the City Council wishes to pursue both the UUT and other measures simultaneously, updated proposals and budget adjustments would be necessary.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommend that the City Council consider the Subcommittee’s recommendations and provide feedback on the following next steps:
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Agenda Item No. 5.3
City Council Staff Report Page 4 of 4 October 28, 2025
1) The Subcommittee will work with staff and the City’s consultant team to continue exploring placement of the UUT on the November 2026 ballot, including preparing and implementing a community survey to determine voter interest in a UUT measure in early 2026, with results being reported to the City Council by March 2026. 2) Consider an amendment to the LLAD in 2027.
3) Increase the Cannabis Tax as soon as possible with any outreach that the City Council deems appropriate.
4) Prepare a framework for the necessary research on a potential tax on vacant properties that may be considered for a future election cycle.
Prepared by: Joan Malloy, City Manager
Submitted by: Joan Malloy, City Manager
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Item 5.3 - Recommendations from the
Revenue Review Ad Hoc Subcommittee and
Provide Policy Direction
City Council - October 28, 2023
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2 Background
• September 9, 2025 – City Council received a briefing
on the LLAD, UUT, Cannabis Sales Tax, and other
revenue sources
• City Council established an Ad Hoc Subcommittee to
review revenue options for the support of landscaping,
lighting, and other services need
• October 7, 2025 – Ad Hoc Subcommittee met to
discuss revenue options
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3 Analysis – Revenues Considered
• Utility Users Tax (UUT) extension and possible amendment • LLAD amendment
• Cannabis Sales Tax increase
• Tax on vacant properties (land, buildings, or units)
• Public Safety Parcel Tax
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4 Analysis - UUT
UUT - Priority measure to evaluate for renewal,
November 2026 ballot
• Expires December 31, 2028
• $6.6 million - General Fund revenue for Public Safety, Public Works, Recreation, Social Services and other core services
• Waiting until November 2028 would create budget and
staffing uncertainty
• Loss of funding would require significant budget cuts 295 of 305
5 Analysis - LLAD
LLAD – Consider Updating LLAD in 2027
• Not tied to election cycle – can be done anytime
• Focus resources now on UUT; reduce competing interests:
public information and education, surveys, Council actions • Ten months to prepare
• Outreach and education
• Revise assessment report
• City Council actions
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6 Analysis – Cannabis Sales Tax
Cannabis Sales Tax - Increase 2%
• Currently allowed up to 6% in Municipal Code
• Can be increase from 4% to 6% at anytime
• Requires City Council Resolution
• Approximately $200,000 increase in annual revenues
• Consider outreach to retailers prior to agendizing
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7 Analysis – Tax on Vacant Property
Tax on Vacant Property – More analysis and information
needed, target future election cycle
• Purpose is to prompt development and discourage vacancies • More analysis needed
• Apply to commercial/industrial AND residential?
• Administration of tax – how vacancy determined, when
is it triggered, how is it tracked, cost to city to support? • How much revenue would be generated?
• Current litigation on similar measure – targeting a future election cycle will allow litigation to resolve 298 of 305
8 Analysis – Public Safety Parcel Tax
Public Safety Parcel Tax - Do not pursue now
• Public Safety Parcel Tax is a special tax - funds earmarked for public safety services
• Requires two-thirds (66.7%) voter approval
• March 2020, a renewal measure for the existing PSPT was defeated by voters (62.5% Yes)
• Polling conducted in 2023-24 showed that achieving two-thirds support would be difficult.
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9 Recommendations
Seeking City Council Concurrence
1. Pursue renewing UUT and possibly
amend for the November 2026 ballot.
Authorize Subcommittee to work with the
consultants to prepare a UUT survey and
set parameters: possible increases and
timeframe for the renewal.
Consider program modifications, such as
including additional utilities
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10 Recommendations
2. Target 2027 to amend LLAD No. 3.
3. Increase the Cannabis Tax as soon as
possible.
4. Prepare a framework for necessary
research on taxing vacant properties
and pursue this effort independently for
future consideration.
Allow ongoing litigation against San
Francisco’s tax to resolve.
Analysis not included in the Biennial
Budget; therefore, a budget
amendment may be needed.
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City Council Staff Report Page 1 of 2 October 28, 2025
Agenda Item No. 5.4
DATE: October 28, 2025
TO: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
FROM: Joan Malloy, City Manager
SUBJECT: Adopt a Resolution Setting the Start Time for Regular City Council Meetings at 6:30 PM Beginning in 2026
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This item requests that the City Council consider the adoption of a resolution to formally establish 6:30 p.m. as the start time for regular City Council meetings beginning in calendar year 2026. This adjustment is proposed at the request of Mayor Singh.
STRATEGIC PLAN ALIGNMENT
Goal B: Governance and Organization Effectiveness
This action reflects a commitment to best practices in local governance by optimizing meeting structure and public access.
BACKGROUND
Under Union City Municipal Code Chapter 2.04, the City Council has the authority to establish the time and place for its regular meetings. Historically, regular meetings have been held at 7:00 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month. At the request of Mayor Gary Singh, staff has prepared a resolution for Council consideration to shift the start time of regular meetings to 6:30 p.m. beginning in 2026.
DISCUSSION
The City Council may wish to consider merits that an earlier start time to the City Council meetings could offer:
• Efficiency of Agenda Flow: The earlier start time allows for ceremonial items such as proclamations, presentations, and recognitions to be addressed before the 7:00 p.m. hour. This enables the regular business portion of the agenda to begin promptly at or near 7:00 p.m., improving predictability and pacing of the meeting.
• Improved Accessibility for the Public: A slightly earlier start may be more convenient for residents who wish to participate in ceremonial items and general public comment, particularly those with earlier schedules or family commitments. 302 of 305
Agenda Item No. 5.4
City Council Staff Report Page 2 of 2 October 28, 2025
• Preparation for SB 707 Implementation: Beginning July 1, 2026, SB 707 will require eligible legislative bodies, including Union City, to provide two-way telephonic or audiovisual access to meetings. With the potential for increased online participation and public comment, this modest shift would provide additional flexibility and buffer time for managing hybrid participation and maintaining orderly meeting flow.
The City Council should discuss this proposed modification to the start time of the City Council regular meeting. Staff have prepared a resolution should the City Council wish to proceed with the time adjustment.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact associated with this action.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommend Council discuss adjusting the start time of regular City Council meetings from 7:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. beginning in calendar year 2026 and should the City Council concur, adopt the attached resolution confirming this action.
Prepared by: Thai Nam Pham, City Clerk
Submitted by: Thai Nam Pham, City Clerk
Attachments
1. Draft Resolution
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RESOLUTION NO. 2025-XXX
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF UNION CITY
SETTING THE START TIME FOR REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS AT 6:30 P.M. BEGINNING IN 2026
WHEREAS, Section 2.04.010 of the Union City Municipal Code provides that the City Council may establish the time and place for its regular meetings by resolution; and WHEREAS, the City Council has historically conducted its regular meetings at 7:00 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month; and WHEREAS, the City Council desires to amend the regular meeting start time to 6:30 p.m. beginning in calendar year 2026 in order to promote greater efficiency in meeting flow and improve accessibility for the public; and WHEREAS, an earlier start time allows ceremonial items such as proclamations, recognitions, and presentations to be completed earlier in the evening, supporting a more streamlined transition into the regular business portion of the agenda; and WHEREAS, beginning July 1, 2026, Senate Bill 707 will require eligible legislative bodies to provide two-way telephonic or audiovisual access for public participation, and the change in meeting start time will help accommodate additional public comment while preserving orderly meeting structure; and
WHEREAS, the City Council reviewed and considered this proposed change at its regularly scheduled meeting on October 28, 2025.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of Union City that:
1. Beginning in January 2026, all regular meetings of the City Council shall commence at 6:30 p.m., unless otherwise noticed; and
2. All regular meetings shall continue to be held on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month at Union City Council Chambers, 34009 Alvarado-Niles Road, Union City, California, unless otherwise modified by resolution or properly noticed. 304 of 305
Resolution No. 2025-XXX
Setting 6:30 P.M. as the Regular Meeting Start Time Beginning in 2026
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Union City at a regular meeting held on October 28, 2025, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
APPROVED:
GARY SINGH
Mayor
ATTESTED: APPROVED AS TO FORM:
THAI NAM N. PHAM
City Clerk
KRISTOPHER J. KOKOTAYLO
City Attorney
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