Public Meetings - Auburn, California

The Auburn City Council met on September 22, 2025, at 1225 Lincoln Way, Auburn, CA. The open session included a Fire Prevention Week proclamation, action on the consent calendar, public comment, a status report on the Active Transportation Plan and Comprehensive Safety Action Plan, the Fiscal Year 2024-25 year-end financial update with Fiscal Year 2025-26 first-quarter budget adjustments, the City Manager report, future agenda items, and committee reports. Proclamation - Mayor Amara issued a Fire Prevention Week proclamation. Fire Chief John Rogers noted the National Fire Protection Association established Fire Prevention Week in 1922 to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, which burned roughly 21 acres, destroyed 17,500 buildings, and displaced more than 100,000 people. Consent Calendar - The consent calendar was approved as amended after Item 7 and Item 9 were pulled for separate discussion. Routine items approved included: - Appointment of Kathryn Gonzales to the Economic Development Commission by resolution. - Appointment of Adam Huff as the student/youth member of the Sustainability Advisory Committee. - Selection of Council Member Dowdin Calvillo as voting delegate to the League of California Cities Annual Conference. - Receiving and filing the City of Auburn Investment Report for the quarter ending June 30, 2025. - Approving a letter responding to the Placer County Grand Jury final report, Human Trafficking: An Unseen Crime, dated June 24, 2025. - Approving the Grant Management Policy and delegating authority to the City Manager to apply for and accept grant awards up to $40,000. - Authorizing purchase of one Ford F-250 command vehicle for the Fire Department. Items Removed from Consent Calendar - Item 7 - California Fire Foundation funds: Fire Chief John Rogers reported the city applied for $25,000 and was awarded $15,000 for hazardous vegetation management along ingress/egress routes in the Roby Point area. The work will be tree trimming in public rights-of-way; Council members asked that affected property owners be notified and confirmed no herbicide such as Roundup would be used. The item was approved on a roll-call vote. - Item 9 - Fire Department staffing change: Councilmember Dowdin Calvillo supported the reallocation for safety reasons but placed on record the value of the Community Risk Reduction Manager position, which had secured over $1 million in grants, and hoped it could be restored when sustainable. Eric Hoff, President of Local 4110, thanked the Council and recognized Chief Rogers for prioritizing staffing and community protection. The item was approved on a roll-call vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Mayor Amara, invited by many residents, read a public comment condemning the hate literature and masked protest at the Auburn courthouse the prior week. She stated Auburn rejects anti-Semitism, racism, and all forms of hate, thanked APD and Placer County Sheriff for protecting citizens, and said the city stands united with those who feel threatened. - Joe Looney, a 33-year Prospect Hill resident, recommended the ATP include neighborhoods where standard sidewalks and bike lanes are infeasible by using traffic calming, shared streets, road diets, and alternative multi-use pathways, with neighborhood-led and temporary pop-up projects to avoid inequities. He said his second written comment concerned a shared youth-use path for safe routes to schools. - Alex Anderson, a Sky Ridge resident and former General Plan focus group member, supported the ATP, noted that walkability and bikeability came up consistently in community outreach, and observed that e-bike buyers often stop riding when infrastructure feels unsafe, so traffic calming measures are valuable. Discussion Items Active Transportation Plan and Comprehensive Safety Action Plan (Status Report) - Economic Development Director Jonathan Wright introduced Fehr & Peers consultants Rob Mahanocci and David Moore. The plan updates the city's bicycle master plan, last updated in the early 2000s, and is funded by the federal Safe Streets for All grant. - Crash data for 2017-2023 showed roughly 100-150 reported injury crashes per year and about 20 fatal/serious-injury (KSI) crashes per year, both on slight upward trends. About 9 in 10 injury crashes involved a vehicle, about 10% involved pedestrians or bicyclists, and about one-third of KSI crashes involved pedestrians or bicyclists. - Highway 49 was the primary corridor for severe crashes; because Caltrans controls it, the city would need to partner and advocate for improvements there. - The Safe Streets for All grant requires Council adoption of a safety goal. Options presented included zero roadway fatalities and serious injuries by 2045, or a 25% reduction from the baseline of 21 KSIs by a target year with eventual zero by 2045. - Draft recommendations apply FHWA guidance by traffic volume and speed, with Class IV separated bikeways on major arterials, including Auburn Folsom Road, Indian Hill Road, Maidu Drive, Nevada Street, and Highway 49; Class II bike lanes in other corridors; Class III bike routes in neighborhoods; and sidewalk, crosswalk, and intersection improvements. Consultants also discussed sidewalk gap maps, road diets, and intersection treatments. - Council discussion included: Councilmember Holmes asked about the Nevada Street bike lane ending near the cemetery; consultants offered removing a left-turn pocket at the transit station to continue the bikeway. Councilmember Davis, who said she has nearly 4,000 miles of local biking, urged using traffic calming as an interim strategy and asked how projects will be prioritized. Councilmember Riddell Harris asked about sidewalk locations and safe routes to school. Councilmember Dowdin Calvillo said some Class IV facilities are not feasible, and the Union Pacific right-of-way is highly unlikely to become a trail, so the plan should not rely on it. Mayor Amara asked about roundabouts; consultants said roundabouts are a tool for reducing severe crashes but require site-specific traffic analysis. - Public comment on the item is summarized above. Staff and consultants noted the online interactive map remains open for community feedback through the end of September, with draft plans expected in the first quarter of 2026 and Council adoption next spring. Fiscal Year 2024-25 Year-End Financial Update and Fiscal Year 2025-26 Q1 Budget Adjustments - Finance Director Gretchen Hoskins presented preliminary year-end results and requested approval of Q1 budget adjustments. FY 2024-25 began with an adopted budget of $35 million and continued to face a multi-year General Fund deficit; through attrition, departmental reductions, and revenue measures, the city ended the year with a projected General Fund surplus. More than $4.1 million in revenues, about 10% of total city revenues, was processed in the 60-plus days after June 30. - Key ending fund balances carried into FY 2025-26: Airport used $417,000 to balance its budget; Sewer ended at $8.7 million, with $2.9 million used to balance the current year, leaving $6.7 million; Transit Fund showed an $81,000 deficit; the Park Preserve Impact Fee Fund remained in a $158,000 deficit. - The General Fund ended at $7.6 million; $5.9 million was already earmarked for reserves and economic contingencies, leaving a $1.7 million surplus compared with budget. Of that, $625,000 was ongoing and $1.1 million was one-time, largely due to grant timing and reimbursements. The ongoing surplus was partially allocated to new labor MOUs and a small staffing reorganization, estimated at $357,000. - Recommended Q1 FY 2025-26 budget adjustments totaled $730,267, including $20,000 for ongoing items and $710,000 for one-time items. Major items were $175,000 for increased unfunded pension liability payments across the sewer, transit, and general funds; $40,000 for a sewer capital shift from machinery to vehicles; $80,000 to add CDBG business assistance grant authority; and various grant-related line-item corrections. Approval increased the total FY 2025-26 city budget from $37.0 million to $38.6 million. - Council members thanked staff for improving the city's financial position. The next steps are the external audit by ID Bailey, expected to be presented in January, followed by a mid-year budget update around February or March. City Manager Report, Future Agenda Items, and Committee Reports - City Manager Sean Rebea reported a virtual cannabis workshop will be held Wednesday at 6:00 p.m. on Zoom; PCTPA's annual unmet transit needs survey is open through October 31; and recognized employee service anniversaries, including Alex Lauden (Fire, 6 years), Tomiko Silva (Police, 4 years), and Timothy Manelo (Police, 2 years). - Under future agenda items, Mayor Amara said she met with Congressman Kiley's staff about seeking grant funding for ADA and elevator work at the Carnegie Library, and proposed exploring a cultural district designation to open state grant opportunities. Another Council member asked for a legislative priority policy so the city can take positions on bills without agendizing each one; the City Manager said this could be wrapped into a planned modification to the Council policy handbook. - Committee reports included a SACOG meeting at Bishop's Pumpkin Farm in Wheatland, a tour of Beale Air Force Base, and discussion of traffic impacts from the pumpkin farm; Pioneer Community Energy discussion of the Power Charge Indifference Adjustment and possible rate impacts; progress on the water bottle filling station, which will be installed along the restroom wall due to existing plumbing and the historical nature of the Lucas fountain; and upcoming Downtown Business Association events, including Porch Fest on October 5, Wine and Ale on October 11, Fall Festival on October 25, safe trick-or-treat on October 31, and holiday events in December. Key Outcomes - Approved the consent calendar as amended, Items 1-6 and 8, on a roll-call vote, with one absence. - Approved Item 7 (California Fire Foundation funds) and Item 9 (Fire Department staffing change) on roll-call votes. - Issued the Fire Prevention Week proclamation. - Received the ATP/CSAP status report; no formal action. Online public engagement continues through the end of September, with draft plans expected in Q1 2026 and adoption in spring 2026. - Received the FY 2024-25 year-end financial report and approved the resolution approving FY 2025-26 Q1 budget adjustments totaling $730,267, increasing the total city budget from $37.0 million to $38.6 million. - Acknowledged next steps: explore Carnegie Library grant funding, evaluate cultural district designation, prepare a Council policy handbook update that may include legislative priorities, and return with the audit in January and mid-year budget in February/March.

The City of Auburn held a community workshop on September 18, 2025, from approximately 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM to gather public input on the potential legalization of retail cannabis businesses within city limits. The workshop included an interactive presentation using Slido for real-time polling, discussions on benefits and concerns, and exploration of possible locations and regulatory approaches. The meeting was led by city staff, with members of the city council present as observers. Public Comments & Testimony - Several attendees expressed strong support for retail cannabis, citing potential tax revenue, economic growth, job opportunities, and the ability to capture revenue currently lost to delivery services from Sacramento and neighboring jurisdictions. - One audience member argued that if Auburn does not allow retail, the county will likely approve it just outside city limits, causing the city to miss out on all related benefits. - Another attendee highlighted that dispensaries in Sacramento have been excellent neighbors, with quick customer turnover and minimal traffic or safety issues. - Concerns raised included traffic congestion (especially near highway 49 and high street), potential for poorly run operators, proximity to schools, and the need for appropriate locations away from residential areas. - Multiple speakers emphasized that modern dispensaries are highly regulated and secure, contrasting with older perceptions. Discussion Items - Background and Current Regulations: Staff reviewed Auburn's current cannabis allowances: medical delivery is permitted, and indoor cultivation (up to six plants) is allowed with a police chief permit, though no permits have been issued. The council has been exploring retail since 2023, with formal direction sought in January 2024, and a draft ordinance discussed in August 2025 leading to this public outreach. - Potential Benefits: Real-time polling showed participants listed benefits including additional tax revenue (projected to be the city's fourth-largest source), grant opportunities (e.g., Grass Valley and Nevada City received $3 million each for community projects), tourism draw, and new business growth. - Potential Concerns: Participants cited traffic, poorly run businesses, inappropriate locations (near schools or parks), and the need for strict regulation. Mitigation ideas included limited operator numbers, security plans, away-from-school buffers, and transparent operations. - Location Preferences: The city identified several possible zones: Highway 49 corridor, downtown, Old Town, and High Street. Audience input favored highly visible areas along Highway 49, with some suggesting the Save Mart shopping center or locations near the freeway for easy access. There was disagreement on whether to place dispensaries in tourist hubs like Old Town. - Number of Licenses: Staff compared neighboring cities: Grass Valley uses a per‑capita formula (one license per 7,500 people), Nevada City allows one, Colfax and Plasterville allow up to three. The audience leaned toward one or two licenses initially. - Selection Process and Community Partnership: Options discussed include first‑come, first‑served versus a competitive application process. Participants expressed interest in requiring dispensaries to contribute to community development, security, and local funds. - Type of License: Both recreational (21+) and medicinal (with state ID and doctor's note) were considered. Medicinal carries a 600‑foot buffer from schools, which may affect location choices. Key Outcomes - The workshop was the first of two public meetings; the second is scheduled for September 24, 2025, at 6:00 PM (online). - An online survey remains open until approximately one week before the October city council meeting; as of the workshop, 166 unique responses had been received. - Staff will present the outreach results to the city council in October, requesting direction to draft a cannabis ordinance (or to continue public input). - No votes were taken; the meeting was purely informational and intended to gauge community sentiment.

The Auburn Traffic Committee met on September 16, 2025 at 9:12 a.m. in City Hall Room 10, chaired by Police Chief Bryan Morrison. Present were Councilmember Sandy Mara and Public Works Director Mengil Deane; Planning Commissioner Mike Lehmberg was absent. The meeting addressed three agenda items: excessive speeds on Sawyer Street, a confusing traffic signal at Fairgate/Racetrack and Auburn Folsom Road, and a missing stop sign at the top of Tennis Way. The meeting adjourned at 9:19 a.m. Public Comments & Testimony - Ken (last name not provided) thanked the Traffic Committee and Public Works for recently installed speed limit signs on Eolia, noting visible improvement in driver behavior. Discussion Items - Sawyer Street Neighborhood Speeds: No neighborhood representative attended. Police Chief Morrison reported he had requested a data collector (speed tracker) be placed in front of Julie Ryan’s residence to measure actual speeds. A new data collector was recently acquired after older units failed. - Fairgate/Racetrack & Auburn Folsom Stop Light Inquiry: Councilmember (likely Davis) raised confusion at the intersection, especially during fairground events, due to a single green light without dedicated turn arrows. Public Works Director Deane acknowledged ongoing discussions about adding a green arrow, potentially using camera-based signal actuation, and improving lane-use signage. He noted the pole at Fairgate is short but signage could be mounted on the traffic signal structure. The matter will be addressed, though not immediately. - Missing Stop Sign at Tennis Way: A resident (referred to as “Jeff”) reported a missing stop sign at the top of Tennis Way. Committee members reviewed historical street-view images showing a pole but no sign since at least 2012. The committee agreed the sign should be replaced and stated it could be done easily. A brief discussion about foliage obstruction rules followed. Key Outcomes - Sawyer Street: A data collector has been placed to collect speed data; future action will depend on results. - Fairgate/Racetrack Intersection: Staff will explore adding a green arrow, signal timing improvements, camera-based detection, and clearer lane signage. No timeline was set. - Tennis Way Stop Sign: Staff directed to install a stop sign at the top of Tennis Way. The sign will be placed promptly. - Additional Note: After adjournment, a citizen reported a non-functioning light (bulb) at the intersection of High Street and Auburn Folsom Road; this was not a stoplight issue and was noted informally. No formal votes were taken; all actions were by consensus.

The Auburn City Council held a regular meeting on August 25, 2025, at 1225 Lincoln Way, Auburn, CA. The meeting included proclamations, a consent calendar, public comment, and a major discussion on commercial cannabis activities. The council directed staff to conduct public outreach and workshops before drafting an ordinance. Proclamations & Commendations - Hunger Action Month Proclamation: The council recognized September 2025 as Hunger Action Month in Placer County. Andy (representing the Auburn Interfaith Food Closet) accepted, noting the organization serves about 90% of food-insecure residents and is at a high watermark of service. He expressed concern about potential policy changes affecting food budgets. - Commendation for Fire Service History Preservation: Carol Kramer and April McDonald Loomis were commended for researching, organizing, and preserving historical records of the Auburn Fire Department and for publishing a comprehensive history book in June 2025. Chief Rogers highlighted the 18-month effort involving retired firefighters. - Adjournment in Memory of Jimmy Wall: The council adjourned in memory of Jimmy Wall, a community figure known for supporting racing and the Soap Box Derby. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved (4-0) with a roll call vote. Items included: 1. Approval of minutes from July 14, 2025, and August 11, 2025. 2. Authorization to declare surplus PPE and donate it to Yuba College Fire Academy. 3. Release of rights under a deferral agreement with Heart of California Corporation regarding Mikkelsen Drive. 4. Authorization to purchase a Challenger 12,000 lb capacity 2-post vehicle lift for $14,135.76, with a budget adjustment. Public Comments & Testimony - Staff Member: Thanked the chamber of commerce and staff for a kickball game and food truck fiesta, noting the city team will defend their trophy next year. - Councilmember Holmes: Suggested exploring a cultural district designation for Auburn, citing the symphony, Auburn State Theater (closed due to asbestos repairs), and arts events. He requested staff follow-up. - Public Speakers on Cannabis: - Colin Madeira (Auburn resident): Expressed support for recreational and medical storefronts, citing tax benefits and personal relief from chronic illness. Shared positive experience living near a dispensary in Sacramento that was a good neighbor. - Jared (public commenter): Urged the council to move forward quickly, noting that residents already purchase cannabis in other cities (Colfax, Grass Valley) and Auburn is losing tax revenue. He stated public support is known and further delays are unnecessary. - Cinnamon Pryor (downtown business owner): Supported cannabis in single-tenant buildings due to odor control. Preferred prominent locations (like Provisions in Grass Valley) to deter nefarious activity. Suggested a substantial application fee to qualify serious applicants. - Jacob Schmidt (Sacramento dispensary owner): Expressed interest in opening a dispensary in Auburn. Highlighted that local purchases currently benefit other economies, and a flagship store could capture I-80 traffic. Emphasized strict state regulation and on-site security. Offered to help draft the ordinance. Discussion Items - Commercial Cannabis Activities & Land Uses: Economic Development Director Jonathan Wright presented a detailed overview of state regulations, local options, and staff recommendations. - Staff Recommendations: Allow retail storefronts and delivery only; prohibit cultivation, manufacturing, distribution, testing, micro-business, and event licenses. Proposed three potential zones: Nevada Street, Palm Avenue area (with buffers from E.V. Cain), and High Street corridor. Recommended using a combination of regulatory permits, development agreements, and an RFP process. Suggested one retail storefront license per 7,500 population and one delivery-only license per 10,000 population. - Council Discussion: - Councilmembers agreed public workshops are needed before drafting an ordinance. - Preferences were expressed for retail and delivery only, not cultivation or manufacturing. - Concerns about location: Councilmember Davis opposed the Palm Avenue sites directly across from E.V. Cain and near Auburn Gymnastics (hundreds of children). Council concurred to remove those three parcels from consideration. - Councilmember Rodell Harris favored the RFP process for greater control over operator quality. - The council directed staff to hold at least two public workshops (one in-person, one virtual) by the end of October 2025, plus an online survey to gather broader input. - Topics for public input: whether to allow cannabis, types (retail/delivery), medical vs. recreational or both, appropriate locations, and criteria for the RFP (e.g., appearance, security, community investment). - Police Chief Brian Morrison: After touring a Grass Valley dispensary, he reported no significant crime increase attributed to the business, crediting robust security and operator vetting. City Manager Report - Employee of the Year: City Clerk Amy Lynn was named employee of the year. She will be honored at the Chamber's Celebrate the Community event on September 25. - Kickball Trophy: The city team won the chamber's kickball tournament for the second consecutive year. - Work Anniversaries: Recognized employees with significant service years in August, including Andy Ferkin (19 years, Public Works), Tony D'Ambrosia (13 years, Fire), and others. - Meeting Schedule: Regular meetings in September and October; November 10 meeting scheduled (none on Nov 24); December 1 for council reorganization, December 8 for regular business, then dark until January. Committee Reports - Councilmember: Announced an Active Transportation Plan workshop on September 4 at 6:00 PM for public feedback on proposed maps. - Youth Commission: First meeting of the year also on September 4. - SACOG: Councilmember reported a performance review meeting; next meeting will be at Bishop's Pumpkin Farm in September. - Sustainability Committee: The front lawn hardscape at Beal is progressing; the Resource Conservation District will provide plants. Ribbon-cutting date pending. Also requested two trash cans for the parking lot at the park due to litter. Key Outcomes - Cannabis Direction: Council directed staff to conduct public workshops (by end of October 2025) and an online survey to gather community input on commercial cannabis. Staff will return with a summary and draft ordinance based on feedback. - Removed Locations: The Palm Avenue parcels near Auburn Gymnastics and directly across from E.V. Cain School were removed from consideration. - Consent Calendar: Approved unanimously. - Proclamations: Issued as read. - Meeting Adjourned: In memory of Jimmy Wall.

The Auburn City Council met on the evening of August 11, 2025, to consider a consent calendar, council business items, and reports. Key actions included approval of youth advisory commission appointments, adoption of the short-range transit plan, and authorization of a sewer service agreement for a property at 85 Lincoln Way. The council also received the annual park impact mitigation fee report and heard public comments. Consent Calendar - Items 2 through 8 on the consent calendar were approved by a single roll-call vote with no discussion. These included: - Second reading of an ordinance allowing short-term rentals in the Central Business District. - Approval of the response to the Placer County Grand Jury report. - Authorization of city property as surplus (two 2019 Ford E450 vehicles). - Acceptance of a storm drain easement at 333 Sacramento Street. - Permission to advertise for the 2025/2026 Road Maintenance Project and CEQA exemption. - Authorization of the Notice of Completion for the Auburn Pump Stations SCADA Upgrades Project. - Approval of the SB 1 Road Repair and Accountability Act project list for FY 2025-2026 (item 8 was later discussed separately). - Item 1 (Youth Advisory Commission Membership Appointments) was removed from the consent calendar at Councilmember Holmes' request for discussion. After explanation by staff that two of the three appointees were adults to help manage the 14 youth members, the council voted unanimously to approve the appointments by resolution. Public Comments & Testimony - A resident expressed concern about drivers failing to use turn signals, calling it a public safety issue. - Sarah Liebert spoke on behalf of Kids Palooza, promoting the upcoming kickball match at the Food Truck Fiesta on August 15, 2025. - Rabbi Mendel Weinbaum thanked the city for its support and announced the formation of a new Jewish community in Auburn. Discussion Items - Item 8 – SB 1 Road Repair and Accountability Act: Councilwoman Davis inquired about including bike lane striping on roads being repaved. Public Works Director Mendell Dean confirmed that roads wide enough would be striped for bike lanes as part of a cohesive plan, not piecemeal. The council approved the project list by resolution (unanimous). - Item 9 – Auburn Recreation and Park District (ARD) Annual Park Impact Mitigation Fee Report: Kale, ARD representative, presented the annual report. The city-ARD trust fund balance is $187,465. Completed projects included pickleball courts (multi-use) costing $224,000, with $70,000 in mitigation fees. Upcoming projects include a new playground for ages 1-5 at Recreation Park (estimated $120,000), an ADA path of travel extension, and an emergency exit at Rec Park ($40,000). Other updates: gym roof replacement due to truss failure ($659,000, insurance-covered), scoreboard at Begs Field, and a retaining wall at Ashford Park. Councilmembers expressed support and thanked ARD. - Item 10 – Adoption of the Short-Range Transit Plan (SRTP): Mendell Dean presented the five-year plan, noting coordination with other transit agencies. Key recommendations already implemented include extending hours to 7 p.m. to match Placer County Transit. The cost per hour dropped from $110–125 to $70.71 (lowest in the region). Fare recovery ratio rose to 30% (previously below 10%). Expansion into the Bowman area is under consideration. The council adopted the plan by resolution (unanimous). - Item 11 – Services Agreement for 85 Lincoln Way: Economic Development Director Jonathan Wright presented a request to authorize the City Manager to execute an extended services agreement for sewer service to a 7-acre parcel outside city limits but within the sphere of influence, with direction to initiate annexation once the general plan update is complete. Councilmember Riddell Harris asked about consequences if annexation fails; Wright confirmed service would continue under the agreement. The council approved the resolution (unanimous). Key Outcomes - Youth Advisory Commission: Three new members appointed by resolution (unanimous). - SB 1 Project List: Approved by resolution (unanimous). - Short-Range Transit Plan: Adopted by resolution (unanimous). - Sewer Service Agreement for 85 Lincoln Way: Authorized with direction to initiate annexation proceedings (unanimous). - Consent Calendar (Items 2-8): Approved en bloc by roll-call vote. - The council received and filed the ARD Annual Park Impact Mitigation Fee Report. Other Reports - City Manager Report: Updates included the Station A Post Office reopening as a museum/visitor center (city pledged $2,400 over two years for lease), fireworks donations totaling $19,000 (city contributed $3,500 of authorized $9,000), Pancakes with a Purpose event on August 16, and repairs to the City Hall side entrance driveway collapse. Solar project at police department to start by end of month. - Council Committee Reports: Councilmember Riddell Harris attended Placer County Economic Development meeting; Councilmember Davis reported as ARD liaison; Councilmember Holmes attended Solid Waste Task Force (discussed bin cardboard program, Eat Well app, mattress pickup, organics composting, and MERF construction) and Sustainability meeting, and noted that the Domes were placed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Auburn City Council held a meeting on July 10, 2025. (Note: The agenda provided lists the date as July 14, 2025, creating a discrepancy with the provided date.) The meeting included a study session on the General Plan 2045 and a regular session with consent calendar items, a public hearing, and council business. No minutes or transcript were available to confirm actual proceedings; this summary is based solely on the agenda. Study Session (5:00 PM) - General Plan 2045 and Draft Land Use Map: The Council received a status report on the 2045 Auburn General Plan Update and provided feedback on the proposed Land Use Map. According to the agenda, this was a study session for discussion only; no formal action was taken. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: Approval of City Council minutes from May 12, June 2, June 9, and June 23, 2025. - Approval of Warrants Paid: Approval of accounts payable warrants from April to June 2025. - Youth Advisory Commission Appointments: Appointment of applicants for the 2025/26 school year. - Cannabis Tax Fund Grant Program: Authorization to accept $320,000 from the California Highway Patrol Cannabis Tax Fund Grant Program. - City Manager Employment Agreement: Approval of the First Amendment to City Manager Sean Rabé’s employment agreement, including a cost of living adjustment to base salary and an increase to the monthly cell phone allowance, effective July 14, 2025. Public Hearing - Short Term Rentals in Central Business District (C-2): Introduction and first reading of Ordinance 25-XXXX, amending the Auburn Municipal Code to allow short term rentals in the C-2 district and update consistency with the City's transient occupancy tax law. Council Business - Solid Waste Collection Rate Ceiling Increase: Authorization to amend the franchise agreement with Recology Auburn Placer to reflect a 2.96% cost of living adjustment for July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026, and a 2.6% mandatory cost allocation pass-through from the West Placer Waste Management Authority for the disposal component, effective July 1, 2025. - Fiscal Year 2025/26 Commission/Committee Workplan Requests: Approval of all City Commission and Committee workplan and fundraising requests for FY 2025/26. Reports - City Manager Report: The City Manager presented updates on relevant matters. - Future Agenda Items: Council discussion and identification of topics requiring attention in upcoming meetings. - City Council Committee Reports: Updates from council members on committee and commission meetings. No public comments or testimony were listed on the agenda. Actual outcomes and discussions are not available due to missing minutes and transcript.

The Auburn City Council met on June 23, 2025, to address a consent calendar of routine items, hold a public hearing on a proposed Vacant Commercial Building Ordinance, adopt the FY 2025-26 Final Budget, authorize solar projects at two city facilities, and cancel the July 28 regular meeting. Key outcomes included approval of employee MOUs, a 3% COLA for unrepresented staff, establishment of a Tenant Improvement Economic Assistance Grant (TIEAG) program, adoption of a $37.1 million budget, and authorization of solar installations at the Police Department and Fire Station 2. Consent Calendar - Successor MOUs with Employee Associations: Approved one-year MOUs (July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026) with the Auburn Employee Association, Auburn Police Officers Association, Auburn Public Safety Association, City Hall Employees Association, and Auburn Firefighters IAFF Local 4110. Also approved a 3% COLA for unrepresented and confidential classifications. - Fire Department Reports: Acknowledged receipt of the FY 2024-25 Annual Inspection Report (SB 1205 compliance) and accepted a $2,000 donation from the Mother Lode Model T Club for fire department tools. - Personnel Actions: Approved amendments to employment agreements for Jonathan Wright (Economic Development Director) and Tia Klumpp (Planning Director), along with new and revised job descriptions and salary schedule. - Other Routine Items: Approved the AB 481 Military Equipment Annual Report, authorized the Notice of Completion for the High Street Sewer Collection System Repair Project, and approved a two-year extension of the franchise agreement with Recology Auburn Placer, including an increased disposal site surcharge. - Tenant Improvement Economic Assistance Grant (TIEAG): After discussion, council approved the establishment of the TIEAG program with $40,000 per grant, funded by CDBG dollars, and directed staff to bring the program back for reassessment in one year. The motion passed unanimously on a roll call vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Community Events: Council members and staff announced upcoming events: 4th of July celebration, Western States Endurance Run, A Town Classic skateboard event, and Placer County Fair. - Vacant Commercial Building Ordinance (Public Hearing): - Harry Anderson (Colfax resident, territory manager) urged case-by-case evaluation and suggested the city market itself better to attract businesses. - Cinnamon Prior (Auburn business and property owner) criticized lack of transparency, requested data on vacancy rates, and proposed a voluntary commercial vacancy registry instead of punitive measures. She also raised concerns about utility termination requirements and insurance demands. - Brad (Old Town Board) supported some enforcement, noting that property owners have not acted despite discussions. - William Pryor (Auburn property owner) argued the vacancy rate is low, suggested a registry to connect owners with tenants, and noted that the city sometimes competes with property owners (e.g., airport leasing). - Gary Mappa (Applegate resident, realtor) recommended releasing a list of problem properties and offered a group of realtors to help find solutions. - Solar Projects: - Glenn Kramer (Sustainability Advisory Committee) advocated for a carport solar array at City Hall, citing the benefits of shade, EV charging, and long-term revenue streams. He noted that the Inflation Reduction Act tax credit (30%) declines after 2025. - Mike Lindbergh (Sustainability Advisory Committee) supported the carport option, emphasizing that solar generates revenue that can fund energy efficiency upgrades, and questioned the decision not to pursue City Hall solar despite favorable payback periods. Discussion Items - Vacant Commercial Building Ordinance: The council reopened the public hearing continued from June 9, 2025. Economic Development Director Jonathan Wright reported on conversations with property owners, noting concerns about the 90-day registration period and potential negative impacts on investment. He suggested the council could extend the timeframe (e.g., 180 days) or tailor the ordinance to focus on long-term vacancies. Council members debated flexibility for property owners actively trying to lease, the registration fee ($338 per quarter), enforcement discretion, and the lack of a current vacancy rate. Councilwoman Davis and Councilwoman Riddell Harris expressed concerns about punitive measures and preferred proactive economic development. Councilwoman Dowden Covilla supported a one-year trial with a 180-day registration period. A motion to adopt the ordinance (with 180-day registration) failed for lack of a second. Council then directed staff to convene a working group with property owners to discuss vacancies and report back before pursuing a long-term vacancy ordinance. - Solar Projects at City Facilities: Public Works Director Sean Mengel presented staff's recommendation to install solar at the Police Department and Fire Station 2 (total $462,513, including 10% contingency), using existing city funds (capital reserve, unassigned fund balance, and capital facilities fee). City Hall was not recommended due to its older infrastructure (single-pane windows, incandescent lights, 11 HVAC units, roof needing replacement) and higher costs, which would require debt financing (estimated 5% interest for eight years). Payback periods were estimated at 4.35 years for Fire Station 2 and 3.69 years for Police Department (without tax credits). Council members debated including City Hall, with Mayor Amara and Councilwoman Dowden Covilla seeking more information on a carport option. Councilwoman Riddell Harris opposed further study, preferring staff focus on other priorities. The council approved the motion to proceed with Police Department and Fire Station 2 only (unanimous roll call). Discussion on City Hall solar was tabled; no further action was taken. - FY 2025-26 Final Budget: Finance Director Gretchen Johnson presented the final budget of $37,105,709, setting General Fund reserves at $4,908,583, the appropriations limit at $26,220,452, and the salary schedule effective July 1, 2025. Changes from the proposed budget included removal of committee fundraising requests (to be discussed later), adjustments to planning/building department labor costs, and correction of a transit fund error (adding $600,000 for EV charging stations at the corp yard, funded by SB 125 TERSIP funds). The budget was adopted unanimously with an amendment to clarify salary ranges for executive-level positions (replacing

The Auburn City Council met on June 9, 2025, for a regular session following a closed session. Key actions included approval of annual assessment fees for business improvement districts, sewer service charges, and a reorganization of city staff positions. The council also held public hearings on workforce vacancies and a proposed vacant commercial building ordinance, which was continued to the next meeting. The FY 2025-26 proposed budget was presented for feedback. Closed Session Report - The City Council voted 4-1 to accept the findings and recommendations of a hearing officer regarding the discipline of a police sergeant, affirming the termination of employment. Public Comments & Testimony - Nick Willock and Bridget Parks, representing the Mother Lode Foundation, presented a $5,000 check to the City of Auburn to offset the cost of the July 4th fireworks display. They spoke about the foundation's 40-year history of supporting the community. Public Hearings - Business Improvement District (BID) Assessment Fee (Item 1): The council conducted a public hearing with no public testimony and unanimously approved a resolution to levy the FY 2025-26 annual assessment fees for the Old Town and Downtown Auburn Business Improvement Districts. (Motion passed 5-0) - Sewer Service Charge Tax Roll Placement (Item 2): The council held a public hearing with no public testimony and unanimously approved a resolution authorizing the levy of sewer service charges for FY 2025-26 to be placed on the Placer County tax roll. (Motion passed 5-0) - Workforce Vacancies, Recruitment and Retention (AB 2561) (Item 3): Human Resources Director Jen Leal presented a report on current vacancies, hiring processes, and retention challenges. The council heard a presentation from Gerlin Gao, president of the Auburn Public Safety Association, who noted the loss of a dispatcher and the freezing of a dispatch records supervisor position but highlighted positive developments such as the return of an experienced dispatcher and commendations for staff. The public hearing was closed with no further action. - Vacant Commercial Building Ordinance and Fee Resolution (Item 4): Community and Economic Development Director Jonathan Wright presented a revised ordinance with changes recommended by the council, including extending the vacancy registration trigger from 30 to 90 days. Several property owners spoke in opposition, arguing that 90 days is too short given market realities. Council discussion focused on the appropriate vacancy period (90 days vs. 180 days). The council voted to continue the public hearing to the June 23, 2025 meeting, at which time the ordinance and fee resolution will be considered for adoption. Discussion Items - FY 2025-26 Proposed Budget (Item 5): Finance Director Gretchen Johnson presented the proposed budget totaling $36,480,994. The general fund budget is balanced with a projected surplus of $418,000 to $550,000, achieved through a 19-position reduction citywide (a 18% decrease), a hiring freeze, and labor cost savings. The budget includes a 3% wage increase for employees. Council members discussed funding for bike and pedestrian projects, the status of the closed landfill liability, and the process for approving committee work plans. The council provided feedback for staff to incorporate into the final budget, which will be presented for adoption on June 23, 2025. - Approval of Changes to the Position Classification Plan (Item 6): City Manager Caleb Engel presented a reorganization plan that splits the Community Development Department into separate Economic Development and Planning departments, creates a payroll support position, reclassifies several roles, and eliminates one administrative assistant position. The net effect is one new full-time position. The council unanimously approved the resolution adopting the classification changes. (Motion passed 5-0) Key Outcomes - BID assessment fee levy approved for FY 2025-26. - Sewer service charge levy approved for placement on Placer County tax roll. - Workforce vacancy public hearing held; no further action taken. - Vacant Commercial Building Ordinance hearing continued to June 23, 2025. - FY 2025-26 proposed budget discussed with feedback to be incorporated; final adoption set for June 23, 2025. - Position Classification Plan changes approved (5-0). - The city manager announced upcoming changes to Recology garbage collection routes affecting 75-80% of customers, with outreach planned. - The second July 2025 council meeting was scheduled to be canceled; one August meeting may also be canceled pending discussion.

The Auburn City Council held a special session on June 2, 2025, at 1225 Lincoln Way. The meeting opened with a Pride Month proclamation, then moved through the consent calendar, a separately considered bicycle/pedestrian funding claim, youth commission recognition, and city manager and committee reports. Proclamation - Mayor Sandra Amara proclaimed June 2025 as LGBTQ+ and Pride Month in the City of Auburn, reading a proclamation that honored the 1969 Stonewall Uprising and affirmed the city's commitment to inclusion, equity, and human dignity. - The vice mayor introduced the proclamation and dedicated it to her Uncle Bob, who passed away the previous week, saying that love is love and the community can always use more love. - Community member Sue Thompson expressed gratitude, saying the proclamation sends a powerful message of inclusivity and support, especially when Placer County has been slow to embrace such values. Attendees posed for a group photo. Consent Calendar - By motion, the council approved the consent calendar as amended, with Item 6 removed for separate discussion. Approved items included: - Approval of the City Council minutes of April 14, 2025, and April 28, 2025. - A resolution approving a retention agreement with Brown & Winters for insurance coverage legal work and authorizing the City Manager to execute it. - A motion authorizing Mayor Amara's signature on the updated letter of support for the Auburn to Cool bridge at China Bar. - Receiving, reviewing, and filing the City of Auburn Investment Report for the quarter ending March 31, 2025. - Award of the Sawyer Street Infrastructure Improvement Project contract, plus 10% contingency, to Lafleur Engineering, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $134,724.70, with CEQA categorical exemptions under the existing facilities and replacement/reconstruction sections. - Award of the 2025 Sewer Improvements Project contract, plus 10% contingency, to Express Sewer and Drain in an amount not to exceed $1,057,595.00. - Award of the Aeolia Dr. Sewer & Water Replacement Project contract, plus 10% contingency, to LaFleur Engineering in an amount not to exceed $1,541,641.20, with CEQA categorical exemptions under the existing facilities and replacement/reconstruction sections. Discussion: Bicycle and Pedestrian Fund Claim (Item 6) - A council member asked to remove Item 6 from the consent calendar to discuss whether the approximately $74,000 in Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation Development Act funds could be used for a bicycle lane rather than the staff-proposed downtown Auburn ADA ramp and sidewalk project. - The Public Works Director apologized for the staff report and explained that Placer County Transportation Planning Agency (PCTPA) found the funds through an audit at the last minute. The funds may be used for either bicycle or pedestrian capital facilities. - Staff clarified that the city could submit the generic claim without locking in a project, and the project description could later be amended. Council members discussed options, including banking funds, using them as local match for a grant, and addressing the partial bike lane gap on Nevada Street near Fulweiler Road. Councilmember Holmes jokingly suggested a bike path through the old cemetery; Councilmember Davis asked whether the funds could be maximized with partner agencies. - Council amended the page 13 project description to read "bike and pedestrian improvements" to preserve flexibility and directed staff to return with a proposed bicycle facility project for the second June council meeting. - The resolution, as amended, passed by roll call vote with all council members voting aye. Public Comments & Testimony - Eric Chun provided announcements: FAMFEST is scheduled for June 21 at the Auburn Recreation Park; a future request will seek council support for the Central Square audio and sound system; and the Board of Supervisors approved the DeWitt project. He said a new team is revising plans, and the group has 12 months to prepare a bona fide plan to bring back for additional county support. - Councilmember Holmes used public comment time to urge drivers to use turn signals when turning or changing lanes in Auburn. - Several council members reflected on the Memorial Day ceremony at DeWitt and the facility's history of medically serving wounded service members during World War II. - A council member said she and Nicole Meisner and Bonnie Potter will work on a Gold Star family memorial for Auburn. - Mayor Amara promoted Friday's Art Walk, with bike valet at three locations. Youth Advisory Commission Update - Youth commissioners presented their year-end update. The commission was reestablished on August 12, 2024, with appointments approved October 14, 2024, to advise the council on youth needs and promote youth involvement. - Youth commissioners described the commission's purpose, goals, and roles: advocating for youth, engaging the community, empowering youth voices, and completing at least one community service project. - The commission's community service project was a senior prom at the Auburn Senior Center, connecting youth and seniors. Approximately 20 seniors and 12 youth attended, along with volunteers. Donors included the Auburn Union Teachers Association, Kids of Palooza, and Serena Lasco Photography. - Plans for the 2025-26 commission: applications are due June 6; new commissioners will be appointed June 23; and meetings will be held on the first Thursday of the month after school starts. Students from all schools and homeschool settings are encouraged to apply. - Council members thanked the youth, and the council recognized individual commissioners with certificates. Councilwoman Harris praised the students' energy and community service. Mayor Amara noted that the commission was run with very little staff impact and thanked the staff and volunteers who supported it. City Manager Report - The City Manager reported that contracts for the July 4th fireworks show at the Gold Country Fairgrounds have been signed. Fundraising is more than halfway to the $21,000 goal, with about $13,000 raised so far. - Citywide cleanup day is June 7, in partnership with Recology, for Auburn residents only: one cubic yard per customer, items no longer than three feet, and no heavier than 40 pounds, with exclusions. - Residential burn season ended May 22 due to dry weather and escaped burn incidents. - The proposed FY 2025/26 budget will be presented to the council on Monday, June 9, and is balanced. - In response to a council member's question about green waste pickup, staff said the current Recology franchise agreement includes a two-cubic-yard pass for drop-off, and they will discuss possible curbside green waste collection during upcoming franchise agreement talks. Council Committee Reports - Councilwoman Dowden Calvillo reported on the Placer County Transportation Planning Agency meeting, including adoption of the 2025/26 overall work program and budget and the Highway 49 sidewalk gap closure project between Elm and Palm, with conduit installed for future irrigation. She also noted ongoing uncertainty about federal grant funding and that the CVRSafe board adopted a budget that will come to the council in June. - Councilman Holmes reported that the Arts Commission is developing data for a potential state cultural district designation; he met with Congressman Kevin Kiley, who agreed to support the Old Town plaza appropriation request and to help with an ADA compliance grant for the Carnegie Library. He also attended a Placer School for Adults commencement and noted the Downtown Business Association and Auburn Co-op events on June 19 and August 21. - Council members had no future agenda items to propose. Key Outcomes - Adopted the Pride Month proclamation for June 2025. - Approved the consent calendar, excluding Item 6, by a single motion. - Approved the FY 2024/25 Bicycle and Pedestrian Fund Claim to PCTPA with the amended project description "bike and pedestrian improvements," and directed staff to return with a bicycle facility proposal at the second June council meeting. - Recognized Youth Advisory Commission members and received their presentation. - Received the City Manager's report and committee reports. - The meeting was adjourned after future agenda items. The agenda listed a closed session for labor negotiations, but the available transcript does not include a report out of that session.