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MINUTES REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
June 13, 2023
City of Watsonville
City Council Chambers
275 Main Street, Top Floor
4:32 p.m.
1. ROLL CALL
Mayor Montesino, Mayor Pro Tempore Quiroz-Carter and Council Members Clark, Dutra, Orozco, Parker, and Salcido were present.
Staff members present were City Manager Mendez, City Attorney Zutler, City Clerk Ortiz, Assistant City Manager and Interim Public Works & Utilities Director Vides, Police Chief Zamora, Fire Chief Lopez, Community Development Director Merriam, Parks & Community Services Director Calubaquib, Library Director Martinez, Deputy City Manager Manning, Assistant Police Chief Sims, Assistant Public Works & Utilities Director Green, Assistant Public Works & Utilities Director Fontes, Principal Engineer Theriot, Recreation Supervisor Merolla, Police Officer Rodriguez, Police Captain Figueroa, Police Captain Rodriguez, Police Captain McKinley, Recreation Specialist Bragado, Recreation Leader Leyva, Recreation Coordinator Sanchez, Accounting Technician Rodriguez, Assistant Finance Manager Rodriguez, Payroll Coordinator Quiroz, Battalion Chief Vojvoda, Accounting Technician Prado, Recreation Facilities Coordinator Hernandez, Deputy City Clerk Pacheco, Interpreter Landaverry and Interpreter Jauregui.
1.a. MOTION TO EXCUSE ABSENT COUNCIL MEMBER(S) – None
1.b. INTRODUCTION OF NEW EMPLOYEES & RECOGNITION OF RETIREES
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3. INFORMATION ITEMS
3.a. REPORT OF DISBURSEMENTS
3.b. MISCELLANEOUS DOCUMENTS REPORT
4. REPORTS TO COUNCIL
4.a. REVENUE MEASURE OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE SALES TAX REPORT BY REVENUE
MEASURE OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE CHAIR BRIAN FULGONI AS REQUIRED BY WATSONVILLE MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION 3-6.1102
In answering Member Dutra, City Manager Mendez spoke about efforts to fill vacancies on the Committee and potential rearrangement of its makeup.
Member Parker spoke about ways in which community youth benefited from Measure Y funded programs and thanked the Committee for their work.
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4.b. REPORT ON YOUTH DEVELOPMENT & SCIENCE WORKSHOP PROGRAMS BY
RECREATION SUPERVISOR MEROLLA, RECREATION FACILITIES COORDINATOR
HERNANDEZ, RECREATION LEADER LEYVA, RECREATION SPECIALIST BRAGADO, & TEEN ACTION COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVE BRANDON (Requested by Mayor Pro Tempore Quiroz-Carter)
Member Dutra spoke about the importance of providing varied programs for youth and thanked staff for their work.
In answering Member Dutra, Recreation Supervisor Merolla and Recreation Leader Leyva spoke about efforts to incorporate healthy meals and cooking classes into their programming.
Recreation Supervisor Merolla, in answering Member Dutra, stated the City’s Camp W.O.W. program was full and spoke about other programs that were available.
Member Parker spoke about the positive impact of the City’s youth programs and stated the Science Workshop was widely recognized throughout Santa Cruz County.
In answering Member Salcido, Recreation Supervisor Merolla spoke about possible collaborations with Pájaro Valley Unified School District (PVUSD), hiring additional staff to expand the capability of Camp W.O.W., and about Youth Center renovations.
Mayor Pro Tempore Quiroz-Carter spoke about the importance of continuing to provide a wide range of programs for youth.
Mayor Montesino thanked staff for their efforts and spoke about the importance of youth programs.
Member Orozco thanked staff for their work and spoke about Camp W.O.W’s inclusivity.
In answering Member Orozco, Recreation Supervisor Merolla spoke about efforts to improve the referral program to help connect families with available programs for their children.
4.c. CITY MANAGER’S UPDATE REPORT
City Manager Mendez spoke about his attendance at the City Manager’s Summit in Phoenix and about a change in Santa Cruz LAFCO’s protocols that would allow Watsonville to have a regular seat on their board. He stated he was part of a Statewide City Managers Sales Tax Group to address sales tax distribution equity challenges and spoke about his meeting with Hartnell College and Cabrillo College representatives regarding potential collaboration on workforce housing.
5. PRESENTATIONS & ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
5.a. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE PUBLIC (2 MINUTES EACH) Andrea Estrada invited the public to attend Nerdville and stated PVUSD students would be given free admission.
Paulina Medrano invited the Council and public to attend Nerdville.
Paco Estrada thanked City staff, Council, organizers, volunteers, and sponsors of Nerdville.
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protections for wetlands and stated he hoped Watsonville would continue to protect its wetlands.
William Sampsle spoke about his history in Watsonville, the flooding that occurred due to the winter storms, and offered his assistance with recovery efforts.
5.b. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE COUNCIL (2 MINUTES EACH) Member Parker spoke about the various summer programs and events that were made available by the City. She thanked Parks & Community Services staff for their involvement in those programs.
Member Dutra spoke about his participation at California Portuguese American Coalition’s resolution presentation in Sacramento honoring Portuguese Heritage Month and about his visit to San Jose’s Portuguese Historical Museum. He wished everyone a happy Portuguese Heritage Month and a happy Pride Month.
Member Orozco thanked Pájaro Valley Prevention and Student Assistance for the opportunity to be a speaker at their June Strengthening Families Series.
Mayor Pro Tempore Quiroz-Carter spoke about various events and meetings she attended over the past weeks and invited the public to attend Pájaro Valley Pride’s Summer Pride Bash and Nerdville.
Mayor Montesino spoke about the importance of the recent change to Santa Cruz LAFCO’s protocols for Watsonville. He stated the City held a Business Roundtable with the goal of increased engagement with local businesses. He spoke about events he attended over the past weeks and invited the public to participate in the summer events.
5.c. MAYOR’S PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING JUNE 10, 2023, AS PORTUGAL DAY
6. CONSENT AGENDA
PUBLIC INPUT – None
MOTION: It was moved by Mayor Montesino, seconded by Member Salcido to approve the Consent Agenda.
In answering Member Parker, City Manager Mendez spoke about increased costs making it necessary to amend various contracts and stated staff could provide a report on the work done on various projects at Council’s request.
Mayor Montesino spoke in favor of Item 6.b.
Mayor Montesino read the following statement prior to Council’s vote on the Consent Agenda.
Consistent with California Government Code Section 54953(c)(3), the following is a summary of the amendments to the contracts to the City Manager, Item 6.j., and the City Clerk, Item 6.i.:
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For the City Clerk, effective March 23, 2023, we are increasing salary to $160,000 per year, and increasing deferred compensation to $250 on a biweekly basis.
For the City Manager, we are changing the date for establishment of residency to July 1, 2024, and providing up to $15,000 of reimbursement for moving expenses.
MOTION: The above motion carried by the following vote.
AYES: MEMBERS: Clark, Dutra, Orozco, Quiroz-Carter, Parker, Salcido, Montesino NOES: MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: MEMBERS: None
6.a. MOTION APPROVING MINUTES OF MAY 23, 2023
6.b. RESOLUTION NO. 97-23 (CM)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WATSONVILLE APPROVING
PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS AND CALLING FOR BIDS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE 2023 CITYWIDE PAVEMENT MAINTENANCE PROJECT
6.c. RESOLUTION NO. 98-23 (CM)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WATSONVILLE APPROVING
PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS AND CALLING FOR BIDS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE UPPER STRUVE SLOUGH ENHANCEMENT PROJECT, NO. SD-23-11092
6.d. RESOLUTION NO. 99-23 (CM)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WATSONVILLE APPROVING
SIXTH AMENDMENT TO CONTRACT BETWEEN THE CITY OF WATSONVILLE AND MOORE IACOFANO GOLTSMAN, INC., A CORPORATION, DBA MIG FOR ON-CALL PLANNING SERVICES; INCREASING THE AMOUNT TO $100,000 PER FISCAL YEAR FOR A TOTAL CONTRACT AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $681,557; EXTENDING THE CONTRACT TO JUNE 30, 2025; FINDING THAT THIS CONTRACT AMENDMENT IS EXEMPT FROM CEQA IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15347(b)(5); AND
AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SAME
6.e. AMENDMENTS TO CONTRACTS WITH CSG CONSULTANTS, INC. & 4LEAF, INC. 1) RESOLUTION NO. 100-23 (CM)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WATSONVILLE
APPROVING FOURTH AMENDMENT TO CONTRACT FOR CONSULTANT SERVICES BETWEEN THE CITY OF WATSONVILLE AND CSG CONSULTANTS, INC., A
CORPORATION, FOR BUILDING CONSTRUCTION, FIRE PLAN REVIEW, FIELD
BUILDING INSPECTION, AND SUPPLEMENTAL PERMIT TECHNICIAN SERVICES, IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $250,000 PER FISCAL YEARS 2023/2024 AND 2024/2025; AND AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE CITY MANAGER TO
EXECUTE SAME
2) RESOLUTION NO. 101-23 (CM)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WATSONVILLE
APPROVING SECOND AMENDMENT TO CONSULTANT CONTRACT BETWEEN THE CITY OF WATSONVILLE AND 4LEAF, INC., A CORPORATION, FOR BUILDING DocuSign Envelope ID: 3A1EDAE9-2CE8-47BA-A0B3-69B096741920 337
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CONSTRUCTION, FIRE PLAN REVIEW, FIELD BUILDING INSPECTION, AND
SUPPLEMENTAL PERMIT TECHNICIAN SERVICES, IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $30,000 PER FISCAL YEARS 2023/2024 AND 2024/2025; AND
AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SAME
6.f. RESOLUTION NO. 102-23 (CM)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WATSONVILLE APPROVING
THIRD AMENDMENT TO CONTRACT BETWEEN THE CITY OF WATSONVILLE AND RINCON CONSULTANTS, INC., A CORPORATION, FOR ON-CALL ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING SERVICES; INCREASING THE AMOUNT TO $50,000 PER FISCAL YEAR FOR A TOTAL CONTRACT AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $138,362; EXTENDING THE CONTRACT TO JUNE 30, 2025; FINDING THAT THIS CONTRACT AMENDMENT IS EXEMPT FROM CEQA IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15347(b)(5); AND
AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SAME
6.g. RESOLUTION NO. 103-23 (CM)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WATSONVILLE APPROVING
THIRD AMENDMENT TO CONTRACT BETWEEN THE CITY OF WATSONVILLE AND HARRIS & ASSOCIATES INC., FOR ON-CALL ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING SERVICES; INCREASING THE AMOUNT TO $30,000 PER FISCAL YEAR FOR A TOTAL CONTRACT AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $155,000; EXTENDING THE CONTRACT TO JUNE 30, 2025; FINDING THAT THIS CONTRACT AMENDMENT IS EXEMPT FROM CEQA IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15347(b)(5); AND
AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SAME
6.h. RESOLUTION NO. 104-23 (CM)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WATSONVILLE APPROVING
FIRST AMENDMENT TO CONTRACT BETWEEN THE CITY OF WATSONVILLE AND KIMLEY-HORN & ASSOCIATES, INC., ADDING TO THE SCOPE OF WORK AND INCREASING THE COMPENSATION BY $120,000 FOR AN AIRPORT MASTER PLAN UPDATE; AND AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SAME
6.i. RESOLUTION NO. 105-23 (CM)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WATSONVILLE
APPROVING SECOND AMENDMENT TO EMPLOYMENT CONTRACT BETWEEN THE
CITY OF WATSONVILLE AND IRWIN IVAN ORTIZ FOR EMPLOYMENT AS CITY CLERK
6.j. RESOLUTION NO. 106-23 (CM)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WATSONVILLE APPROVING
FIRST AMENDMENT TO EMPLOYMENT CONTRACT BETWEEN THE CITY OF
WATSONVILLE AND RENE MENDEZ FOR EMPLOYMENT AS CITY MANAGER
6.k. RESOLUTION NO. 107-23 (CM)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WATSONVILLE AWARDING
A CONTRACT FOR CONSULTANT SERVICES BETWEEN THE CITY OF WATSONVILLE AND CAROLLO ENGINEERS, INC., A CORPORATION, TO PERFORM THE FREEDOM SITE FEASIBILITY STUDY, IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $249,688; AND
AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SAME DocuSign Envelope ID: 3A1EDAE9-2CE8-47BA-A0B3-69B096741920 338
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6.l. RESOLUTION NO. 108-23 (CM)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WATSONVILLE APPROVING SOLE SOURCE PURCHASE FROM POLYDYNE, INC., DBA SNF POLYDYNE, INC., A
CORPORATION, FOR THE PURCHASE OF POLYMER CHEMICALS USED IN WASTEWATER TREATMENT AND RECYCLED WATER PRODUCTION FOR FY23/24, IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $572,000 (FUNDED FROM THE WASTEWATER
ENTERPRISE FUND)
6.m. RESOLUTION NO. 109-23 (CM)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WATSONVILLE APPROVING A TEN-MONTH LICENSE AGREEMENT, CONSISTING OF TWO (2)
TWELVE-MONTH RENEWAL TERMS BETWEEN THE CITY OF WATSONVILLE AND
GIVELOVE, A CALIFORNIA NONPROFIT CORPORATION, FOR THE USE OF REAL PROPERTY LOCATED AT 401 PANABAKER ROAD, WATSONVILLE, CALIFORNIA, COMMENCING ON JULY 1, 2023, AND ENDING MAY 1, 2024; AND AUTHORIZING
AND DIRECTING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SAME
6.n. RESOLUTION NO. 110-23 (CM)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WATSONVILLE
AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE CITY MANAGER ON BEHALF OF THE CITY OF
WATSONVILLE TO SUBMIT AS A COAPPLICANT WITH THE ASSOCIATION OF
MONTEREY BAY AREA GOVERNMENTS (AMBAG) A GRANT APPLICATION TO THE
FEDERAL HIGHWAYS ADMINISTRATION CHARGING AND FUELING
INFRASTRUCTURE DISCRETIONARY GRANT COMMUNITY PROGRAM IN THE AMOUNT OF $15 MILLION OF WHICH THE CITY WILL BE ELIGIBLE TO RECEIVE APPROXIMATELY $1.2 MILLION FOR THE MONTEREY BAY REGION EQUITABLE EV
CHARGING PROJECT
7. ITEMS REMOVED FROM CONSENT AGENDA – None
8. NEW BUSINESS
8.a. APPROVAL OF PROJECT LISTS FOR TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS FUNDED BY MEASURE D & SB 1 (Recommended by Interim Public Works & Utilities Director Vides)
1) Staff Report by Assistant Public Works & Utilities Director Fontes 2) City Council Clarifying & Technical Questions
In answering Member Clark, Assistant Public Works & Utilities Director Fontes spoke about the reasons a crack on the road near Ohlone Parkway was not on the projects list, and about Caltrans’ role in having it repaired.
Assistant Public Works & Utilities Director Fontes, in answering Member Dutra, stated the City had informed the County of Santa Cruz regarding plans for repairs on Holohan Road and explained the County performed road repairs according to their priorities.
Member Parker suggested placing signage along the roads to identify City limits and assist the public in understanding where County jurisdiction and road repair responsibilities began.
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In answering Member Parker, Assistant Public Works & Utilities Director Fontes spoke about proposed projects along Green Valley Road and projected timelines for other projects.
Interim Public Works & Utilities Director Vides answered Member Parker regarding slurry seal, chip seal, striping and dig out projects, and stated all road projects were approved in the upcoming budget.
In answering Member Salcido, Assistant Public Works & Utilities Director Fontes and Interim Public Works & Utilities Director Vides spoke about potential traffic delays due to paving and other work on Freedom Boulevard and Green Valley Road and rerouting of traffic due to temporary lane closures.
Interim Public Works & Utilities Director Vides, in answering Member Dutra spoke about plans to complete underground utility work prior to re-paving.
Interim Public Works & Utilities Director Vides, in answering Member Orozco, stated staff would work on identifying possible alternative routes for residents to use during construction and road closures.
In answering Member Parker, Interim Public Works & Utilities Director Vides spoke about potential ways to inform the community regarding projects that would be funded by Measure R.
Mayor Montesino spoke about the possibility of designing a logo or sign to inform residents of the City’s monetary investment in various maintenance and repair projects.
Assistant Public Works & Utilities Director Fontes answered Mayor Montesino regarding the timeline for various projects.
3) Public Input
Yesenia Jimenez, District 7, spoke in support of the Slough Trail project and requested additional and improved bike lanes. She spoke about the possibility of working with PG&E to have them install more underground utilities to facilitate planting of trees. She inquired about the possibility of offering free bus rides in the future.
Bernie Gomez, District 1, spoke in support of investing in infrastructure including roads and bike lanes as part of public safety.
Eileen Clark-Nagaoka, District 6, spoke about the possibility of offering free bus rides and adding more bike lanes throughout the City. She stated her concerns with the conditions of Beach Road.
Mayor Montesino requested the Council be informed on how much money the City was investing in projects each year and to share that information with the community. 4) MOTION: It was moved by Member Orozco, seconded by Mayor Pro Tempore QuirozCarter and carried by the following vote to approve Item 8.a.6. as well as a resolution approving the City of Watsonville – SB 1 Project List FY 23/24 to be funded by Senate Bill 1 funds.
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AYES: MEMBERS: Clark, Dutra, Orozco, Quiroz-Carter, Parker, Salcido, Montesino NOES: MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: MEMBERS: None
5) City Council Deliberation on Motion – None
6) RESOLUTION NO. 111-23 (CM)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WATSONVILLE APPROVING THE 2023 MEASURE D 5-YEAR PROGRAM OF PROJECTS (FY 2023/2024 – FY 2027/2028) FOR THE CITY OF WATSONVILLE FUNDED BY MEASURE D APPROVED BY VOTERS ON NOVEMBER 16, 2016
RESOLUTION NO. 112-23 (CM)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WATSONVILLE APPROVING THE CITY OF WATSONVILLE – SB 1 PROJECT LIST FY 23/24 TO BE FUNDED BY SENATE BILL 1 FUNDS
8.b. 2023-2025 WATSONVILLE STRATEGIC PLAN
1) Staff Report by Assistant City Manager Vides
2) City Council Clarifying & Technical Questions
Member Salcido made suggested Council rank the seven priorities identified in the Strategic Plan in the following order:
1. Economic Development
2. Infrastructure & Environment
3. Housing
4. Fiscal Health
5. Public Safety
6. Engagement & Well-Being
7. Efficient & Well-Performing Government
In answering Member Dutra, Assistant City Manager Vides and City Manager Mendez spoke about the reasons seven goals had been identified and stated Council could combine them and reduce the number at their discretion.
Member Orozco spoke in favor of having seven separate goals and suggested keeping them as such.
Mayor Pro Tempore Quiroz-Carter suggested adding a section listing the goals in the order Council prioritized them.
Member Salcido amended her previous motion to have the seven goals listed by order of Council’s priorities in a cover page on the Strategic Plan.
Member Parker suggested adding information to each goal to clarify how Council prioritized them as well as an overview page at the beginning of the Strategic Plan.
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3) Public Input
Bernie Gomez, District 1, requested City documents such as the Strategic Plan be simplified to make them easier to understand.
4) MOTION: It was moved by Member Salcido, seconded by Member Orozco to approve Item 8.b.6. listed below, ranking the Strategic Plan’s seven priorities as follows:
1. Economic Development
2. Infrastructure & Environment
3. Housing
4. Fiscal Health
5. Public Safety
6. Engagement & Well-Being
7. Efficient & Well-Performing Government
5) City Council Deliberation on Motion
Mayor Montesino requested staff make the Strategic Plan available in Spanish.
Member Parker suggested adding Council’s ranking on each of the seven goals listed in the Strategic Plan.
MOTION: The above motion was carried by the following vote.
AYES: MEMBERS: Clark, Dutra, Orozco, Quiroz-Carter, Parker, Salcido, Montesino NOES: MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: MEMBERS: None
6) RESOLUTION NO. 113-23 (CM)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WATSONVILLE APPROVING THE CITY OF WATSONVILLE STRATEGIC PLAN 2023-2025
JOINT COUNCIL, SUCCESSOR HOUSING AGENCY, &
SUCCESSOR AGENCY MEETING
9. PUBLIC HEARINGS, ORDINANCES, & APPEALS
9.a. RECOMMENDED BIENNIAL BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEARS 2023-24 & 2024-25 & RELATED ACTIONS (Recommended by Administrative Services Director Duran) Budget Link: https://cityofwatsonville.org/DocumentCenter/View/21429/Budget-FY-23- 25-Draft
1) Staff Report by Administrative Services Director Duran 2) City Council Clarifying & Technical Questions
In answering Member Dutra, Airport Director Williams spoke about the various capital projects that were included in the Airport Enterprise Fund and projected Airport Fee increases.
Community Development Director Merriam answered Member Dutra regarding increases in various contract services for Community Development.
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In answering Member Dutra, City Manager Mendez spoke about a budget allocation for an economic development consultant, the potential for hiring staff, and allocations for Fire and Police overtime.
In answering questions from Member Dutra and Mayor Montesino, Police Chief Zamora spoke about challenges with recruiting and keeping Police Officers and efforts to address those challenges including advertising and expanding the department’s recruiting team.
Fire Chief Lopez answered questions from Member Orozco regarding staffing challenges and exploring potential solutions.
In answering Member Parker, Police Chief Zamora stated he would be willing to explore the possibility of workforce housing for Police.
Member Parker spoke about the possibility of working with landlords throughout the City to lower their rent rates for Police and Fire staff.
In answering Member Parker, City Attorney Zutler spoke about the possibility of requiring reimbursements for training of new Police and Fire recruits.
Member Salcido spoke in support of Police and Fire and commended them for their efforts to hire high quality personnel.
Administrative Services Director Duran, in answering Member Orozco, spoke about allocations that were included to account for salary and benefit increases that could result out of negotiations with the various bargaining units.
In answering Member Orozco, City Manager Mendez spoke about establishing priorities for spending Measure R funds in the future.
Parks & Community Services Director Calubaquib, in answering Member Dutra, spoke about vacancies in the department and efforts to fill them.
In answering Member Dutra, Administrative Services Director Duran and Interim Public Works & Utilities Director Vides spoke about the cost of various Capital Improvement Projects and challenges in completing certain projects due to high costs.
City Manager Mendez added that staff was exploring updating the Project Labor Agreement in an effort to facilitate progress on infrastructure projects the City had been unable to move forward with.
Member Dutra requested staff explore the possibility of providing health insurance for Council.
In answering Member Salcido, City Manager Mendez spoke about exploring possible updates to the City Charter relating to Council compensation.
Member Clark requested information regarding the total budget allocation for legal services across all City departments.
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In answering Member Clark, City Manager Mendez stated the City contracted with attorneys not part of Burke Williams & Sorensen LLP when necessary.
In answering Mayor Montesino, City Manager Mendez spoke about the travel funds allocated to each Council member and funds allocated for Sister City business.
Mayor Montesino spoke about the possibility of increasing each Council member’s travel funds to $10,000 and requested a staff member be assigned exclusively to assisting Council with responses to their questions.
Member Dutra agreed with Mayor Montesino regarding having a dedicated staff member for Council.
City Clerk Ortiz, in answering Member Parker, stated a presentation regarding the process for amending the Charter would be included in the following Council meeting.
In answering Member Parker, City Manager Mendez stated all departments made budgetary requests that were not approved.
3) Public Comments
Maria, District 6, spoke about the funds invested in response to the storms and floods earlier in the year, the negative effects of climate change, and about the possibility of using the General Fund to implement the Climate Action and Adaptability Plan. She requested the City be proactive in their response to climate change.
Eileen Clark-Nagaoka, District 6, requested additional funding be allocated for Parks & Community Services. She stated Watsonville had very little park space compared to other cities and requested community meetings to discuss the difference in funding allocated for Police and Parks & Community Services. She suggested the Council use The People’s Budget model to determine allocation for Measure R funds.
Pam Sexton, District 1, spoke about climate change impacts as a risk factor for the budget and the potential for separating Police and mental health crisis support. She stated additional changes were needed at the Airport to reduce negative impacts on climate and the environment.
Bernie Gomez, District 1, expressed concerns with the potential for workforce housing for first responders and spoke about exploring alternatives for addressing Police’s staffing challenges.
Karina Moreno, District 6, stated concerns with potential future negative effects of climate change and thanked Council for investing in art and parks programs. She requested additional funding be allocated for those services and spoke about possible uses for land on the Airport and about investing in infrastructure based on the priorities listed in the Strategic Plan.
City Manager Mendez stated he was available to meet with any community member who wished to discuss the proposed budget.
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In answering Member Parker, Administrative Services Director Duran and City Manager Mendez stated formal action on the budget was scheduled for the following Council meeting, and staff would work to provide Council the information they requested.
City Manager Mendez, in answering Member Orozco, stated Council could make changes to budget allocations at the next Council meeting.
Member Orozco stated her idea of workforce housing encompassed all City departments, not only Police and Fire.
4) Appropriate Motion(s) If Any – None
5) City Council Deliberation on Motion – None
10. NEW BUSINESS (CONTINUED)
10.a. ZONE 2 WATER RESERVOIR & BOOSTER PUMP STATION MODIFICATION PROJECT (Recommended by Interim Public Works & Utilities Director Vides) 1) Staff Report by Assistant Public Works & Utilities Director Green 2) City Council Clarifying & Technical Questions – None 3) Public Input – None
4) MOTION: It was moved by Member Clark, seconded by Mayor Pro Tempore QuirozCarter and carried by the following vote to approve Item 10.a.6.
AYES: MEMBERS: Clark, Dutra, Orozco, Quiroz-Carter, Parker, Salcido, Montesino NOES: MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: MEMBERS: None
5) City Council Deliberation on Motion – None
6) RESOLUTION NO. 114-23 (CM)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WATSONVILLE
ADOPTING THE FINAL INITIAL STUDY / MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION (SCH# 2023030212) FOR CITY OF WATSONVILLE ZONE 2 WATER RESERVOIR
AND BOOSTER PUMPSTATION MODIFICATION PROJECT, IN COMPLIANCE WITH
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA), AND AUTHORIZING THE
CITY MANAGER OR DESIGNATED STAFF TO FILE THE NOTICE OF
DETERMINATION WITH THE SANTA CRUZ COUNTY RECORDER’S OFFICE, AND APPROVE THE PROJECT WITH THE MMRP AS CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL.
10.b. AMENDED MEASURE Y OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE BYLAWS & ADOPT MEASURE R
COMMITTEE BYLAWS
1) Staff Report on Third Amended Revenue Measure Oversight Committee Bylaws by Assistant City Manager Vides
2) City Council Clarifying & Technical Questions
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In answering Member Salcido, Assistant City Manager Vides stated the reason for amending the bylaws to not allow employees to sit on the Measure Y Revenue Oversight Committee was due to a conflict with the City Charter.
Member Parker expressed concerns with reducing the number of members from 11 to seven.
At Member Parker’s request, City Manager Mendez read the Charter section prohibiting City employees from serving on the Committee.
Member Salcido spoke about her reasons for supporting the proposed reduction in the number of members on the Committee.
Mayor Montesino spoke about the importance of Council recruiting community members to serve on various boards and commissions.
In answering Mayor Pro Tempore Quiroz-Carter, Assistant City Manager Vides stated appointments were made by the Mayor and at-large.
Member Parker stated she was in favor of having Council be responsible for recruiting members for the Committee and stated she would be in favor of reducing the number of members if challenges to fill vacancies continued despite their efforts.
Member Salcido spoke about challenges with recruiting representatives for the City’s various boards and commissions.
Mayor Montesino requested staff explore the possibility of having pre-set meeting dates for all boards and commissions.
In answering Member Orozco, Assistant City Manager Vides and City Clerk Ortiz spoke about challenges with having a quorum present for Measure Y Revenue Oversight Committee meetings and efforts to retain members.
Member Orozco stated she was in support of reducing membership from 11 to seven and of having Council be proactive with recruiting community members to serve on it. 3) Public Input
Bernie Gomez, District 1, spoke about the importance of diverse representation on the committee and stated some residents may feel uncomfortable around Police. He requested the application process be accessible.
Karina, District 6, spoke about reasons that were potentially hindering community members from applying for committee positions and changing the City’s social media posts to capture the public’s attention. She expressed concerns with having only seven members on the Measure Y Revenue Oversight Committee.
City Manager Mendez stated the City Charter did not allow residents under the age of 18 to serve on boards and commissions and suggested a change to the initial amendment to allow for an ex-officio youth member of at least 16 years of age.
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MOTION: It was moved by Member Salcido, seconded by Member Orozco to approve Item 10.b.6. with the proposed addition of an ex-officio youth member at least 16 years of age.
Member Parker stated she would vote against the motion because she did not agree with lowering the number of committee members to seven.
Member Dutra stated he would vote in favor of the motion and recognized challenges with filling vacancies on boards and commissions. He spoke about the importance of Council’s role in recruiting members to fill vacancies.
MOTION: The above motion carried by the following vote.
AYES: MEMBERS: Clark, Dutra, Orozco, Quiroz-Carter, Salcido, Montesino NOES: MEMBERS: Parker
ABSENT: MEMBERS: None
Staff Report on Community Investment Transactions & Use Tax Measure (Measure R) Oversight Committee Bylaws by Assistant City Manager Vides City Council Clarifying & Technical Questions
In answering Mayor Montesino, Assistant City Manager Vides spoke about the projected number of yearly meetings for the Measure R Committee.
Assistant City Manager Vides, in answering Member Parker, spoke about the function and responsibilities of the Measure R Committee.
In answering Mayor Montesino, City Manager Mendez spoke about the reasons why it was not advised to combine the Measure Y and Measure R committees and stated the measures were for different types of tax.
City Attorney Zutler, in answering Member Dutra, Member Parker, and Member Clark, stated the City Charter did not prohibit serving on more than one committee at a time.
Member Parker requested an ex-officio youth member be included as a committee member.
In answering Member Orozco, City Manager Mendez stated disclosure of citizenship status would not be required for the ex-officio member and all voting committee members had to be registered voters residing within City limits.
Public Input – None
4) MOTION: It was moved by Member Parker, seconded by Member Clark and carried by the following vote to approve Item 10.b.7. with the proposed addition of an ex-officio youth member at least 16 years of age.
AYES: MEMBERS: Clark, Dutra, Orozco, Quiroz-Carter, Parker, Salcido, Montesino NOES: MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: MEMBERS: None
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5) City Council Deliberation on Motion – None
6) RESOLUTION NO. 115-23 (CM)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WATSONVILLE
APPROVING THE THIRD AMENDED REVENUE MEASURE OVERSIGHT
COMMITTEE BYLAWS
7) RESOLUTION NO. 116-23 (CM)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WATSONVILLE
APPROVING THE CITY OF WATSONVILLE COMMUNITY INVESTMENT
TRANSACTIONS & USE TAX MEASURE (MEASURE R) OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE BYLAWS
10.c APPROVAL OF THE ANNUAL MILITARY EQUIPMENT REPORT, RENEWAL OF ORDINANCE 4-13 & WATSONVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT MILITARY EQUIPMENT USE POLICY (Recommended by Police Chief Zamora)
1) Staff Report by Assistant Police Chief Sims & Police Captain Figueroa 2) City Council Clarifying & Technical Questions
In answering Member Parker, Assistant Police Chief Sims stated the equipment listed in the Annual Military Equipment Report had only been used for training purposes.
Member Salcido stated she was glad the equipment listed in the Report did not need to be deployed for use with the public.
In answering Mayor Pro Tempore Quiroz-Carter, Police Captain Figueroa spoke about the frequency and number of trainings done for Police officers at various levels involving military equipment.
3) Public Input
Pam Sexton thanked staff for listening to her input regarding Assembly Bill (AB) 481.
She requested Council read AB 481 to identify their responsibilities regarding Police’s potential use of military equipment. She expressed concerns with Police’s request to evaluate an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) program.
Eileen Clark-Nagaoka, District 6, expressed concerns with Police having unnecessary military equipment and insufficient advertising of the meeting held by Police regarding AB 481.
4) MOTION: It was moved by Member Clark, seconded by Member Dutra to approve Item
10.c.6.
5) City Council Deliberation on Motion
Member Parker spoke about the importance of Police being prepared for any unforeseen circumstances.
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MOTION: The above motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: MEMBERS: Clark, Dutra, Orozco, Quiroz-Carter, Parker, Salcido, Montesino NOES: MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: MEMBERS: None
6) RESOLUTION NO. 117-23 (CM)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WATSONVILLE PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 7071 RENEWING CHAPTER 4-13
OF THE WATSONVILLE MUNICIPAL CODE ENTITLED MILITARY EQUIPMENT USE ORDINANCE, WATSONVILLE MILITARY EQUIPMENT USE POLICY 708 AND
FINDING THAT THE ANNUAL MILITARY EQUIPMENT REPORT COMPLIES WITH THE STANDARDS OF APPROVAL SET FORTH IN GOVERNMENT CODE 7071(d)
11. EMERGENCY ITEMS ADDED TO AGENDA – None
12. REQUESTS & SCHEDULING FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS – None
13. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 10:39 p.m.
______________________________ __
Eduardo Montesino, Mayor
ATTEST:
_____________________ _________
Irwin I. Ortiz, City Clerk
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