City Council
Evan Hutson, Mayor
Rick Thomas, Vice Mayor
Gary Hansen, Council Member
Lorri Pride, Council Member
Matt Busby, Council Member
City Manager
Marti Brown
City Clerk
Karleen Price
Willows City Council
Regular Meeting
October 28, 2025
Willows City Hall
6:00 PM
201 North Lassen Street
Willows, CA 95988
(530) 934-7041
Agenda
Watch the Council meeting online via Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82821138636 Remote viewing of the City Council meeting for members of the public is provided for convenience only. In the event that the remote viewing connection malfunctions for any reason, the City Council reserves the right to conduct the meeting without remote viewing.
If you have documents you would like to submit to the Council, please deliver or mail them to the City Clerk at 201 N. Lassen St., Willows, CA 95988, or email [email protected]. 1. CALL TO ORDER
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3. ROLL CALL
4. CHANGES TO THE AGENDA
5. CEREMONIAL MATTERS
a. Proclamation – Small Business Saturday
b. Proclamation – Veterans Day
6. PUBLIC COMMENT & CONSENT CALENDAR FORUM
All items on the Consent Calendar are considered routine and may be approved with a single vote unless removed for separate discussion by the Council or City Manager. Individuals wishing to speak on Consent items or matters not on the agenda are asked to complete a Speaker Card and submit it to the City Clerk. All remarks shall be directed to the Mayor and Councilmembers and are limited to three minutes. By law, the Council cannot discuss or take action on items not listed on the posted agenda. a. Register Approval
Recommended Action: Approve general checking, payroll, and direct deposit check registers.
Contact: Joanne Moore, Finance Director, [email protected] b. Minutes Approval
Recommended Action: Approve the October 14, 2025, meeting minutes.
Contact: Karleen Price, City Clerk, [email protected]
c. Volunteer Fire Capacity Program Grant Match Funding Acceptance Recommended Action: Adopt Resolution 2025-XX (Attachment 1), authorizing the City Manager or her designee to sign and accept $8,000 of grant funding through CAL FIRE’s Volunteer Fire Capacity Program Grant.
Contact: Nate Monck, Fire Chief, [email protected]
7. PUBLIC HEARING
All matters in this section of the agenda are formal public hearings and will be acted on individually. Individuals wishing to speak on these items are asked to complete a Speaker Card and submit it to the City Clerk. Comments should be directed to the Mayor and Councilmembers and are limited to three minutes. If you have any documentation that you would like distributed to the Council, please give it to the City Clerk for distribution. a. Public Hearing on Unmet Transit Needs in Glenn County Recommended Action: Conduct public hearing to receive public comment on Unmet Transit Needs in Glenn County and forward comments to the Glenn County Transportation Commission for consideration.
Contact: Carlos Linarez-Hernandez, Glenn County Transportation Planner, [email protected]
b. Public Hearing to Protest the Sale of Exempt City-Owned Surplus Land Recommended Action: Open the public hearing and accept public protest regarding the sale of exempt surplus land, Assessor Parcel Numbers (APN) 002-101-009, 002-101-006, and 003-113- 006 in accordance with State law.
Contact: Marti Brown, City Manager, [email protected]
8. DISCUSSION & ACTION CALENDAR
All matters on the Discussion & Action calendar will be discussed and acted on individually. Individuals wishing to speak on these items are asked to complete a speaker card and submit it to the City Clerk. Comments should be directed to the Mayor and Councilmembers and are limited to three minutes. By law, the Council cannot discuss or take action on items not listed on the posted agenda. a. Mayor and Vice-Mayor Election Cycle & Committee Appointments Recommended Action: Approve changing the Mayor and Vice-Mayor election cycle and committee appointments from annually to every two years starting with December 2025 whereby the current Mayor and Vice-Mayor would serve an additional year in 2026 and thereby complete a two-year term, and future elections and appointments would occur in December of even numbered years (e.g., 2026, 2028, 2030).
Contact: Marti Brown, City Manager, [email protected] Requested by: Councilmember Hansen
9. COMMENTS & REPORTS
a. Council Correspondence
b. City Council Comments & Reports
c. City Manager’s Report
10. ADJOURNMENT
This agenda was posted on October 24, 2025. ______________________________ Karleen Price, City Clerk A complete agenda packet, including staff reports and back-up information, is available for public inspection during normal work hours at City Hall at 201 North Lassen Street in Willows or on the City’s website at www.cityofwillows.org. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Willows will make available to members of the public any special assistance necessary to participate in this meeting. If requested, the agenda shall be made available in appropriate alternative formats to persons with a disability, as required by Section 202 of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. Sec. 12132). The public should contact the City Clerk’s office at (530) 934-7041 to make such a request.
Notification 72 hours prior to the meeting will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting.
The City of Willows is an Equal Opportunity Provider.
CEREMONIAL
MATTERS
Agenda Item #5a
City of Willows
Proclamation
Small Business Saturday
WHEREAS, small businesses are the backbone of the City of Willows’ economy, representing the heart of our downtown and neighborhood communities, and contributing significantly to the city’s character, culture, and prosperity; and
WHEREAS, the City of Willows values the essential contributions that small businesses make to local job creation, economic growth, and community well-being; and WHEREAS, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration, there are millions of small businesses in the United States, employing nearly half of all private-sector workers and driving innovation and local investment across the nation; and
WHEREAS, small businesses help create and sustain vibrant, walkable communities and are key to the City’s commitment to economic vitality, civic engagement, and quality of life; and WHEREAS, Small Business Saturday was founded by American Express in 2010 and has been officially cosponsored by the U.S. Small Business Administration since 2011 to encourage shoppers to support small, independently owned businesses during the busiest shopping weekend of the year; and
WHEREAS, the City of Willows supports and recognizes the important role that small businesses play in strengthening our local economy and encourages residents and visitors alike to “Shop Small” and “Shop Local”; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, I, Evan Hutson, Mayor of the City of Willows and on behalf of the Willows City Council and the Citizens of Willows, do hereby proclaim Saturday, November 29, 2025, as Small Business Saturday in Willows, California, and encourages all citizens to support local businesses—on this day and throughout the year—to help strengthen the economic and social fabric of our community.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and official seal this 28th day of October, 2025. ____________________________ Evan Hutson, Mayor
Agenda Item #5b
Proclamation
WHEREAS, each year on November 11, the people of the United States pause to honor the men and women who have served in our Armed Forces, defending our freedoms and preserving our way of life; and
WHEREAS, Veterans Day originated as Armistice Day, commemorating the end of World War I on November 11, 1918, and was later expanded to honor all American veterans of all wars; and WHEREAS, the courage, dedication, and sacrifice of our veterans—past and present—serve as a powerful reminder of the cost of freedom and the enduring strength of our nation; and WHEREAS, the City of Willows recognizes the deep debt of gratitude we owe to all who have worn the uniform of the United States Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Space Force; and
WHEREAS, our veterans have not only defended our country in times of war but have also contributed immeasurably to our communities in times of peace—as leaders, teachers, first responders, and role models for future generations; and WHEREAS, we also honor the families of veterans and active-duty service members, whose love and support sustain them through service and sacrifice; and WHEREAS, the City of Willows encourages all residents to join in recognizing and thanking veterans for their service and to participate in local observances that honor their courage and commitment;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, I, Evan Hutson, Mayor of the City of Willows and on behalf of the Willows City Council and the Citizens of Willows, do hereby proclaim Tuesday, November 11, 2025, as VETERANS DAY in Willows, California, and urges all citizens to observe this day with respect, gratitude, and meaningful acts of remembrance for those who have served our nation.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and official seal this 28th day of October, 2025. ____________________________ Evan Hutson, Mayor
PUBLIC COMMENT &
CONSENT CALENDAR
FORUM
City Council
Evan Hutson, Mayor
Rick Thomas, Vice Mayor
Matt Busby, Council Member
Gary Hansen, Council Member
Lorri Pride, Council Member
City Manager
Marti Brown
City Clerk
Karleen Price
Willows City Council
Regular Meeting
Action Minutes
October 14, 2025
Willows City Hall
Regular Session: 6:00 PM
201 North Lassen Street
Willows, CA 95988
(530) 934-7041
1. CALL TO ORDER – 6:00 PM
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3. ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present: Mayor Hutson, Vice Mayor Thomas, Councilmembers Busby, Hansen and Pride
Councilmembers Absent: None
4. CHANGES TO THE AGENDA
Item #10a - Closed Session was removed from the agenda.
5. CEREMONIAL MATTERS
a. Proclamation – National Wildlife Refuge Week received by Kellie Moulden of Hawks, Honkers, and Hoots on behalf of the Sacramento Wildlife Refuge Complex.
6. PUBLIC COMMENT & CONSENT CALENDAR FORUM
a. Register Approval
Action: Approved general checking, payroll, and direct deposit check registers. b. Minutes Approval
Action: Approved the September 23, 2025 meeting minutes. c. Administrative Analyst Job Classification - Fire and Community Development & Services Departments
Action: Approved the attached job classification (Attachment 1) and salary schedule (Attachment 2) based on the approved FY 2025-26 budget authorizing the creation and addition of one full-time Administrative Analyst - Fire and Community Development & Services Departments.
d. Amended Conditions of Approval for Cali Love LLC. CUP 25-01 Agenda Item #6b
2 Action: Approved the amended Conditions of Approval (COA) (Attachment 1) for the Conditional Use Permit (CUP) 25-01 for Cali Love LLC.
e. Planning Commission Appointment
Action: Appointed Michael McNeil to the Willows Planning Commission for the term ending December 31, 2027.
Items #6c and 6d were pulled for discussion.
Motion to approve items #6a, 6b, and 6e as presented.
Moved/Seconded: Councilmember Hansen/Councilmember Busby Yes: Mayor Hutson, Vice Mayor Thomas, Councilmembers Busby, Hansen and Pride No: None
Absent: None
Motion to approve Item #6c as presented.
Moved/Seconded: Councilmember Pride/Councilmember Hansen Yes: Mayor Hutson, Vice Mayor Thomas, Councilmembers Busby, Hansen and Pride No: None
Absent: None
Motion to approve Item #6d as amended.
Moved/Seconded: Councilmember Busby/Councilmember Pride Yes: Mayor Hutson, Vice Mayor Thomas, Councilmembers Busby, Hansen and Pride No: None
Absent: None
7. PUBLIC HEARING 7:01PM
a. Rezone (File# RZ-25-01) & General Plan Amendment (File# GPA-25-01) / 103 South Plumas Street
Action: Adopted Ordinance 766-2025 entitled “AN ORDINANCE OF THE WILLOWS CITY
COUNCIL GRANTING THE REZONE TO AMEND THE ZONING FROM CENTRAL COMMERCIAL (CC)
TO MULTIPLE RESIDENCE-PROFESSIONAL OFFICE (RP) AND A GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT TO
AMEND THE LAND USE DESIGNATION FROM GENERAL COMMERCIAL (GC) TO OFFICE OF PROFESSIONAL (OP) FOR THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 103 SOUTH PLUMAS STREET, ASSESSOR’S PARCEL NUMBER 002-113-001” by title only and waived the full reading of the ordinance.
3 Public Hearing Open 6:15PM, Closed 6:16PM
Moved/Seconded: Councilmember Hansen/Vice Mayor Thomas
Roll Call Vote
Yes: Mayor Hutson, Vice Mayor Thomas, Councilmembers Busby, Hansen and Pride No: None
Absent: None Motion Passes 5-0
b. Sale of Exempt Surplus Land – Public Hearing for Protest Action: Continued item to the October 28, 2025, City Council Meeting.
Public Hearing Open 6:17PM, Closed 6:17PM
Moved/Seconded: Vice Mayor Thomas/Councilmember Busby
Yes: Mayor Hutson, Vice Mayor Thomas, Councilmembers Busby, Hansen and Pride No: None
Absent: None
8. DISCUSSION AND ACTION CALENDAR
a. Community Development Block Grant Application – Project Consideration Action: Directed staff to move forward as recommended with the 2025 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) application.
b. Amend Budget to Execute Amended Contract for Human Resource Services Action: Authorized the City Manager to amend the budget for $15,000 for Fiscal Year 2025-26 to fund ongoing human resource consulting services with Regional Government Services (RGS).
Moved/Seconded: Vice Mayor Thomas/Councilmember Busby
Yes: Mayor Hutson, Vice Mayor Thomas, Councilmembers Busby, Hansen and Pride No: None
Absent: None
9. COMMENTS & REPORTS
a. Council Correspondence
Mayor Hutson received a letter from Lila Stokes and Donetta Kafader regarding the removal of mid-block wheelchair access at the Glenn County Courthouse. He also received a letter from Chris Ruhl, Glenn County Superior Court, in response to that complaint concerning wheelchair access. Additionally, Mayor Hutson received a notification regarding the Glenn County Farm
4 Bureau Annual Meeting scheduled for Thursday, November 6, 2025 at 5:30 at Ord Bend Hall in Glenn.
b. City Council Comments & Reports
Vice Mayor Thomas reported attending the Johns Manville 50-year Celebration on September 29, 2025, which included a tour of the facility. The City of Willows was presented with a crystal clock in recognition of the occasion.
Thomas also attended the Walmart Re-Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting, and the Masters Gallery Ribbon Cutting where he also toured the facility.
Additionally, Vice Mayor Thomas attended a Zoom meeting with Community Development and Services Director Joe Bettencourt and Seema Bhagat regarding a dilapidated billboard along Interstate 5.
Councilmember Pride requested the Rotary Club’s volunteer projects list to be shared with other service clubs. Pride suggested developing a list of city-identified projects that could be completed by volunteers under the new Volunteer Policy.
Councilmember Pride requested two future agenda items:
An update on renegotiations for the Law Enforcement Services Contract and discussion of alternatives to the Sheriff’s Contract.
A Pioneer Energy agenda item and public announcement to inform the community that the program has been approved and will move forward in 2027 Councilmember Hansen reported that the Law Enforcement Ad-Hoc Committee will meet once updated information regarding the Law Enforcement Services Contract negotiations becomes available.
Hansen also provided an update on the Glenn Groundwater Authority Meeting and announced that a special joint meeting of the Glenn and Colusa Groundwater Authorities is scheduled for October 17, 2025.
Hansen expressed appreciation to City Clerk Karleen Price, City Manager Marti Brown, Fire Chief Monck, the Fire Department staff, and the Public Works team for their contributions to National Night Out.
Mayor Hutson reported attending the Walmart Re-Grand Opening, and the Masters Gallery Ribbon Cutting which included a tour of the facility.
Hutson commended staff for organizing National Night Out and the Bike, Trike, and Wagon Parade, praised Fire Chief Monck’s cooking, and thanked all staff, sponsors, and community partners for their support and participation.
c. City Manager’s Report
City Manager Marti Brown commented on the success of National Night Out and the Bike, Trike, and Wagon Parade, extending thanks to Fire Chief Monck and Fire Department volunteers for
5 their cooking efforts; Superintendent Pfyl and Public Works staff for park preparation; the Sheriff’s Office, OES, and event sponsors including CalWater, PG&E, and Waste Management.
Brown also announced that the Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for the Sewer Lift Station will be held on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at 11:30 a.m.
10. ADJOURNMENT – 6:59 PM
______________________________ Karleen Price, City Clerk
Agenda Item #6c _____________________________________________________________________ Date: October 28th, 2025 To: Honorable Mayor and Councilmembers
From: Nathan Monck, Fire Chief
Subject: Volunteer Fire Capacity Program Grant Match Funding Acceptance Recommendation:
Adopt Resolution 2025-XX (Attachment 1), authorizing the City Manager or her designee to sign and accept $8,000 of grant funding through CAL FIRE’s Volunteer Fire Capacity Program Grant.
Rationale for Recommendation:
The City of Willows Fire Department is in need of replacing portions of its wildland personal protective equipment, including gloves and fire shelters. These grant funds will support the procurement of this equipment, with costs covered at a 50 percent grant-funded rate.
Background:
The Volunteer Fire Capacity (VFC) Grant is a federally funded grant program that allows California to provide rural fire departments with firefighter training, communications, and safety equipment for their volunteer firefighters. The VFC program has a 50/50 match requirement. Awards are set for a minimum of $500 and a maximum of $20,000. The City of Willows is the type of community that the VFC was designed for. Applicants must serve a population less than 10,000 people and be in a rural setting. Grant awards are determined at the local CAL FIRE Unit level. As part of the grant acceptance process, CAL FIRE requires a resolution (Attachment 2) accepting the funds after the award date.
Discussion & Analysis:
Grant funds, if accepted, will be utilized to purchase 20 new fire shelters and 20 new sets of wildland gloves. Reliable personal protective equipment is an integral piece in the City of Willows Fire Department's core mission: To protect life, property, and environment.
Consistency with Council Priorities and Goals:
The staff recommendation helps achieve the following Council identified priorities: Priority 1 (Financial Stability), Priority 3 (Public Safety), Priority 6 (Quality of Life).
Fiscal Impact:
If the VFC grant is accepted, and council approves Resolution 2025-XX, the fiscal impact to the City of Willows is $8,000. The VFC grant affords the City of Willows to purchase the needed equipment at a 50% discount. This is a reimbursable grant, and $16,000 of expenditures must be made on grant related activities to receive reimbursement. Staff anticipated award of this grant and the grant required matching funds have already been built into the approved 2025-2026 budget.
Attachments:
Attachment 1: City of Willows Resolution
Attachment 2: CAL FIRE Required Resolution
Attachment 1
City of Willows
Resolution XX-2025
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WILLOWS APPROVING THE DEPARTMENT OF FORESTRY AND FIRE PROTECTION AGREEMENT #7GF25025 FOR SERVICES FROM THE DATE OF LAST SIGNATORY ON PAGE 1 OF THE AGREEMENT TO AUGUST 31, 2026
UNDER THE VOLUNTEER FIRE CAPACITY PROGRAM OF THE COOPERATIVE FORESTRY ASSISTANCE ACT OF 1978
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Willows as follows:
1. That said Council does hereby approve the Agreement with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection dated as of the last signatory date on page 1 of the Agreement, and any amendments thereto. This Agreement provides for an award, during the term of this Agreement, under the Volunteer Fire Capacity Program of the Cooperative Fire Assistance Act of 1978 during the State Fiscal Year 2025-26 up to and no more than the amount of $8,000.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Mayor Evan Hutson, Vice Mayor Rick Thomas and Fire Chief Nate Monck are hereby authorized and directed to sign and execute said Agreement, including any amendments hereto, on behalf of the City of Willows.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the City Council on this 28th day of October 2025, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
APPROVED: ATTESTED:
__________________________________ ____________________________________ Evan Hutson, Mayor Karleen Price, City Clerk
Attachment 2
BEFORE THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF WILLOWS
COUNTY OF GLENN, STATE OF CALIFORNIA
IN THE MATTER OF:
Resolution Number: XX-2025
Approving the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection Agreement #7GF25025 for services from the date of last signatory on page 1 of the Agreement to August 31, 2026 under the Volunteer Fire Capacity Program of the Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act of 1978.
BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Willows, that said Council does hereby approve the Agreement with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection dated as of the last signatory date on page 1 of the Agreement, and any amendments thereto. This Agreement provides for an award, during the term of this Agreement, under the Volunteer Fire Capacity Program of the Cooperative Fire Assistance Act of 1978 during the State Fiscal Year 2025-26 up to and no more than the amount of $8,000.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Mayor Evan Hutson, Vice Mayor Rick Thomas and Fire Chief Nate Monck are hereby authorized and directed to sign and execute said Agreement, including any amendments hereto, on behalf of the City of Willows.
The foregoing resolution was duly passed and adopted by the City Council of the City of Willows, at a regular meeting thereof, held on the 28th day of October, by the following vote:
AYES: _______________________________
Signature
NAYS:
______________________________
ABSENT: Evan Hutson, Mayor
_______________________________
Signature
_______________________________
Rick Thomas, Vice Mayor
------CERTIFICATION OF RESOLUTION------
ATTEST:
I Karleen Price_, Clerk of the City of Willows,
County of Glenn California do hereby certify that this is a true and correct copy of the original Resolution Number XX-2025.
WITNESS MY HAND AND OFFICIAL SEAL OF THE City of Willows, on this 28th day of October, 2025.
OFFICIAL SEAL
OR NOTARY CERTIFICATON
Signature
Karleen Price, City Clerk
PUBLIC HEARING
Agenda Item #7a _____________________________________________________________________ Date: October 28, 2025 To: Honorable Mayor and Councilmembers
From: Carlos Linarez-Hernandez, Glenn County Transportation Planner Subject: Public Hearing on Unmet Transit Needs in Glenn County Recommendation:
Conduct public hearing to receive public comment on Unmet Transit Needs in Glenn County and forward comments to the Glenn County Transportation Commission for consideration.
Rationale for Recommendation:
Prior to allocating Transportation Development Act (TDA) funds, the Glenn County Transportation Commission, acting as the transportation planning agency, is required to hold a minimum of one public hearing to receive comments on unmet transit needs that may exist and that might be reasonable to meet. This is one of four public hearings being held; the other three are to be held before the City Council of Willows, the Glenn County Board of Supervisors and the Glenn County Transportation Commission.
Background:
In 1971, the California Legislature enacted the Transportation Development Act (TDA) to ensure “the efficient and orderly movement of people and goods in the urban areas of the state.” The TDA provides two funding sources: the Local Transportation fund (LTF), a ¼-cent general sales tax collected statewide and the State Transit Assistance fund (STA) which is now derived from an excise tax on gasoline and diesel fuel.
TDA recognizes that rural counties have different transportation needs. Counties with a population under 500,000 as of the 1970 Census may use LTF funding for transit and local streets and roads provided that certain conditions are met first.
The TDA, Statutes and Administrative Code of Regulations, requires specific actions on the part of local transportation planning agencies. One of these requirements (Section 99401.5) is that the Local Transportation Commission (LTC) explicitly define the phrases "Unmet Transit Needs" and "Needs that are Reasonable to Meet" in terms of local conditions, and that these definitions be documented by resolution or within the agency's minutes. Definitions have been developed to both comply with legislative mandates and be responsive to actual community
need within the TDA funding guidelines.
Under TDA direction (Section 99401.5 (c)), the LTC has the authority to identify the unmet transit needs of their jurisdiction and those needs that are considered reasonable to meet.
Staff has determined, through contact with Caltrans representatives, that clear and comprehensive definitions are helpful in ensuring clarity in this annual process. With the above in mind, the following discussion is offered:
An Unmet Transit Need can be found to exist when there is any identifiable group within the population that has no dependable and/or affordable access to community employment, medical, commercial, public, or social services. Transit needs are not static--they can fluctuate with such variables as unemployment, population demographics, land use and circulation patterns, and variations in the local economy. Because of this, transportation needs are annually re-evaluated and revised as necessary.
It was through this process that the need for a public transportation system was identified and implemented, which is Glenn Ride. Glenn Ride has been in operation for 25 years with ridership growing slight 2020.
Discussion & Analysis:
An unmet transportation need (as opposed to a desire) has, for purposes of our definition, two components:
1) A trip destination that provides a necessity of life, and 2) a physical or financial obstacle between the individual and the necessary destination, which the individual is unable to overcome.
Necessary trip purposes may be defined as follows:
a) to obtain or maintain employment;
b) to obtain non-emergency medical and/or dental care;
c) shopping for necessities of life;
d) to obtain social services such as health care, government funded nutrition programs, sheltered workshops teaching employable skills, County welfare programs, and education programs for physically and/or mentally handicapped individuals; and e) to obtain education
f) for the maintenance of life, health, physical and mental well-being The population groups with the greatest inferred needs are the very young, the handicapped, the economically disadvantaged, and the elderly. There may be considerable overlap among these groups; for instance, many of the elderly may be both economically disadvantaged and handicapped. However, it is not to be implied that all, or even most of these people are
transportation-disadvantaged. The aspects described simply identify sub-groups of the population that may tend to contain a disproportionately large number of people with transportation difficulties (in contrast to the general population).
An identified transportation need can be reasonably met by determining whether or not a transportation service can meet established need and meet the criteria found in the Transportation Development Act. This requires a cost-benefit analysis and feasibility study of alternative transit systems compared with existing service, level of performance, and cost. In any event, the cost of any transit system cannot exceed the apportionment for the jurisdiction providing or supporting the service.
Attached are the Glenn County adopted definitions of “Unmet Transit Needs” and “Needs that are Reasonable to Meet” (Attachment 1). The Glenn County Transportation Commission and Regional Transit Committee/Glenn Transit Service aim to meet as many if not all transportation needs for County residents, and currently offers several services to address these needs, such as follows.
Glenn Ride is a public transit system that provides transportation services to the general public—there are no barriers to entry or restrictions, except payment of fare. Glenn Ride has been in operation since August 1998 and experienced consistent ridership growth until the COVID-19 pandemic. Though Glenn Ride has continued to meet its required fare box return, as mandated by the Transportation Development Act, limited services and safety measure mandates during the pandemic significantly decreased ridership numbers, though numbers have been steadily recovering and increased by almost 7% this last fiscal year.
Glenn Transit also operates a specialized paratransit program known as Dial-A-Ride. The program operates within 1-1/2 mile radius of the respective city halls of Orland and Willows, and to the Cannella/Huggins Drive area, Leisure Mobile Home Park, east of Orland, and the Willows Mobile Home Park, west of Willows. Individuals qualifying are those 60 years of age and older, permanently disabled, low-income social service assisted or low-income non-social service assisted (income guidelines are provided on the transit card application required for service). Transportation is door-to-door to each requested destination.
Glenn Transit also provides non-emergency medical transportation to qualifying Glenn County residents through its Volunteer Medical Transportation program. Volunteer drivers from the community provide transportation to individuals for medical appointments. Qualifying individuals are those 60 years of age and older, permanently disabled, low income social service assisted or low income non-social service assisted.
The GCTC has requested this time and advertised this meeting as an opportunity for residents in the community to provide input on transit needs within the Glenn County region.
Attachments:
Attachment 1: Unmet Transit Needs Definition
Attachment 2: Unmet Transit Needs Public Comment Sheet
Agenda Item #7b _____________________________________________________________________ Date: October 28, 2025 To: Honorable Mayor and Councilmembers
From: Marti Brown, City Manager
Subject: Public Hearing to Protest the Sale of Exempt City-Owned Surplus Land Recommendation:
Open the public hearing and accept public protest regarding the sale of exempt surplus land, Assessor Parcel Numbers (APN) 002-101-009, 002-101-006, and 003-113-006 in accordance with State law.
Rationale for Recommendation:
As part of disposing of exempt surplus land, State law requires that the governing agency hold a public hearing and accept public protest.
Background:
At the March 25, 2025, City Council Meeting, the City Manager was authorized to sell city owned properties, Assessor Parcel Numbers (APN) 002-101-009, 002-101-006, and 003-113-006 in accordance with State law and municipal best practices. Holding a public hearing to accept public protest of the sale of exempt surplus land is the next step in selling said properties.
Discussion & Analysis:
According to the California Surplus Land Act and based on certain statutory exemptions applicable to these particular properties, the city must take the following steps to move forward with the sale of its surplus land:
1. Via resolution (Attachment 1), the City Council declares the three properties “exempt surplus land” at a regular scheduled meeting.
2. Supply findings and resolution to HCD per Section 400(e) of HCD’s Surplus Land Act Guidelines at least 30 days prior to disposition and receive HCD approval (Attachment 2).
3. As deemed “exempt surplus land,” the city may sell the land without complying with the California Surplus Land Act.
4. If determined to be “exempt surplus land,” the City must:
a. Publish Resolution 32-2025 (Attachment 1) declaring the property exempt from the Surplus Land Act and with the intention to sell said properties at least once in a newspaper (Attachment 3);
b. Post copies of the resolution on the subject properties (Attachment 4); and c. Hold a public hearing to listen to potential public protest to the sales of exempt city owned surplus land.
Upon completion of the public hearing, staff will move forward with the sale of exempt surplus land by first offering the residential properties to the tenants for purchase. If the tenants are not interested in purchasing the residence that they occupy, staff will move forward with the public sale of the properties on the open market.
Consistency with Council Priorities and Goals:
The proposed action is consistent with the Council’s Fiscal Stability Priority, Goal #2: Seek Cost Savings and Revenue Generation Opportunities.
Fiscal Impact:
There is no fiscal impact by opening the public hearing and accepting public protest to the sale of exempt surplus land.
Attachments:
Attachment 1: Resolution 32-2025
Attachment 2: HCD Approval Letter
Attachment 3: Proof of Publication
Attachment 4: Proof Resolution 32-2025 Was Posted on Properties
SLA0002056
STATE OF CALIFORNIA - BUSINESS, CONSUMER SERVICES AND HOUSING AGENCY GAVIN NEWSOM, Governor
DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
DIVISION OF HOUSING POLICY DEVELOPMENT
651 Bannon Street, Suite 400, Sacramento, CA 95811
(916) 263-2911 / FAX (916) 263-7453
www.hcd.ca.gov
September 29, 2025
Karleen Price, City Clerk / Assistant to the City Manager City of Willows
201 North Lassen Street
Willows, CA 95988
SENT VIA EMAIL TO: [email protected]
Dear Karleen Price:
RE: HCD’s Review of the City of Willows' Resolution No.3 2-2025 and Supporting Documentation Declaring Properties Located at 139 N. Lassen Street, 145 N. Lassen Street, and a Vacant Lot at the Corner of S. Yolo Street and E. Sycamore Street [APNs 002-101-009, 002-101-006, and 003- 113-006] as “Exempt Surplus Land”
Thank you for notifying the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) of the City of Willows' (City) determination of the Properties of 139 N.
Lassen Street, 145 N. Lassen Street, and a Vacant Lot at the Corner of S. Yolo Street and E. Sycamore Street [APNs 002-101-009, 002-101-006, and 003-113-006] (Properties), as “exempt surplus land.” Your complete documentation was received on August 28, 2025.
HCD reviewed Resolution No. 32-2025 (Resolution) and supporting documentation pursuant to Section 400 of the Surplus Land Act Guidelines. As explained below, HCD finds that the Properties qualify as “exempt surplus land” under Government Code section 54221, subdivision (f)(1)(B).
Analysis
Government Code section 54221, subdivision (f)(1)(B) states, “Surplus land that is less than one-half acre in area and is not contiguous to land owned by a state or local agency that is used for open-space or low- and moderate-income housing purposes” is exempt surplus land.
The submitted Properties include 139 N. Lassen Street [APN 002-101-009] which measures 6,534 square feet (.15 acres), 145 N. Lassen Street [APN 002-101-006] which measures 6,534 square feet (.15 acres), and a vacant lot at the corner of S. Yolo Street and E. Sycamore Street [APN 003-113-006] which measures 6,969 square feet (.16 acres). The three Properties are not contiguous to land owned by a state or local agency that is used for open-space or low- and moderate-income housing purposes.
Karleen Price, City Clerk / Assistant to the City Manager
SLA0002056
According to the Resolution, which was adopted on August 26, 2025, the Properties are owned by the City and are no longer necessary for the City’s use. The City desires to sell the Properties on the open market in order to “i) relieve the City of property maintenance responsibility for these surplus properties; ii) mitigate potential future liabilities; and iii) provide needed revenue to the City.”
On September 9, 2025 the City confirmed that the characteristics found in Government Code section 54221, subdivision (f)(2), do not apply to the Property and, therefore, a written notice of availability for open-space purposes is not required.
Conclusion
If the submitted documentation and assertions by the City are complete and accurate, HCD finds that the Properties qualify as “exempt surplus land” under Government Code section 54221, subdivision (f)(1)(B).
If you have any questions or need additional technical assistance, please contact Stephanie Chan, Senior Housing Policy Specialist, at [email protected]. Sincerely, Laura Nunn
Housing Accountability Unit Chief
Housing Policy Development
Attachment 4
145 Lassen St
139 Lassen St
Vacant Lot
DISCUSSION & ACTION
CALENDAR
Agenda Item #8a _____________________________________________________________________ Date: October 28, 2025 To: Honorable Mayor and Councilmembers
From: Marti Brown, City Manager
Requested by: Councilmember Hansen
Subject: Mayor and Vice-Mayor Election Cycle & Committee Appointments Recommendation:
Approve changing the Mayor and Vice-Mayor election cycle and committee appointments from annually to every two years starting with December 2025 whereby the current Mayor and Vice-Mayor would serve an additional year in 2026 and thereby complete a two-year term, and future elections and appointments would occur in December of even-numbered years (e.g., 2026, 2028, 2030).
Rationale for Recommendation:
The recommended action would give time for new Mayors and Vice-Mayors to learn and understand procedural nuances and become more effective chairs, as well as reduce the disruption of leadership turnover just as a Mayor gains experience in the role. It would also allow Committee Members to become better acquainted with and enhance their understanding of the committees they serve on, especially since many of the committees only meet monthly or less frequently.
Background:
Currently, the City of Willows City Council elects a new Mayor and Vice-Mayor and appoints Councilmembers to internal and external committees on an annual basis. The proposal would move the election and appointment process to a biennial event on even-numbered years similar to the City of Chico’s protocol.
Discussion & Analysis:
If approved, the recommended action would start December 2025. The current terms of the Mayor and Vice-Mayor would be extended for one more year (as they have both already served one year) and committee appointments would also remain intact for another year. In December 2026, a new Mayor and Vice-Mayor would be elected by the Council and new committee appointments would also occur.
Moving forward, Mayor and Vice-Mayor elections and committee appointments would occur on evennumbered years (e.g., 2028, 2030, 2032).
For council-appointed Mayor and Vice-Mayor positions, two-year terms offer a better balance between leadership stability and democratic rotation within the council. It allows for more time to learn and understand legal protocol and procedures and grow into the role, helping Mayors and ViceMayors to become more effective chairs. By moving to a two-year cycle, councils encourage increased experience and relationship-building with staff, the public, and other governments while still providing two opportunities in a Councilmember’s term to elect a new Mayor and Vice-Mayor.
In addition, two-year committee appointments provide continuity and consistency in representation at intergovernmental bodies, regional boards, and Council committees.
Consistency with Council Priorities and Goals:
There is no Council priority and/or goal that aligns with the recommended action.
Fiscal Impact:
There is no fiscal impact to the proposed recommendation.
COMMENTS AND
REPORTS