Public Meetings - Benicia, California

The Benicia Planning Commission met on June 11, 2026, at Benicia City Hall. The meeting was scheduled for 6:00 PM and was called to order at 6:03 PM and adjourned at 7:05 PM. The commission unanimously approved the consent calendar, a right-of-way vacation, the Capital Improvement Program (CIP), and recommended zoning code amendments to the City Council. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the April 9, 2026 meeting were unanimously adopted. (Motion by Lyle, second by Jesson. Vote: 5-0). Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public provided comments on any agenda item or during the general public comment period. Discussion Items 11.A - 650 East N Street Right-of-Way Vacation - Deputy Public Works Director Neil Leary presented a request from JN Properties, California LLC, to vacate a five-foot-wide, 250-square-foot strip of right-of-way to facilitate an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU). The existing right-of-way width is 80 feet; the remaining width would be 75 feet, exceeding the 45-foot minimum standard for local streets. A Public Utility Easement is required for PG&E. The item is CEQA exempt. - Commissioners confirmed the roadway and sidewalk would not be altered. - Vote: Unanimously approved. (Motion by Jesson, second by Lyle. Vote: 5-0). 11.B - Two-Year FY 25/26 - FY 26/27 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) - Neil Leary presented the CIP, which includes 14 projects funded over two fiscal years: five facilities and parks projects (including marina dredging, breakwater repairs, John’s Place Stairs removal, and a shoreline pathway); three streets projects (pavement rehabilitation, downtown diagonal parking); one water project (Lopes Road raw water line replacement); and five wastewater projects (sewer replacements, shoreline stabilization, treatment plant improvements). - Commissioner Gorman asked clarifying questions about the John’s Place Stairs, which are being removed due to being a structural hazard and replaced with a shoreline pathway improvement. Commissioner Lyle asked about FEMA reimbursement for the water line. Staff confirmed the city expects 93% reimbursement on eligible costs from FEMA and the state. - Vote: Unanimously approved. (Motion by Gorman, second by Gilbert Hayes. Vote: 5-0). 11.C - Code Amendments for Commercial Recreation and Outdoor Food Service - Senior Planner Dave Feinstein presented two zoning code amendments as a single package. Commissioner Gordon recused himself from this item due to a conflict of interest. - Indoor Commercial Recreation: A staff proposal to conditionally permit sports training (e.g., batting cages), archery, and shooting galleries in the Limited Industrial (LI) zone, restricted to single-tenant buildings and specific locations near the Gateway area. Uses such as theaters and bowling alleys are excluded from this allowance. - Outdoor Food Service: A staff proposal to explicitly allow outdoor food service ancillary to eating and drinking establishments in the Mixed-Use Infill (MUI) district, an activity already permitted in commercial and industrial zones. - Commissioner Positions: Commissioner Jesson expressed concern that the single-tenant building requirement and limited use types were unnecessarily restrictive and could limit tax revenue. Commissioner Lyle shared this concern and questioned the practicality of the restriction. Commissioner Gordon questioned the reasoning behind limiting the uses and locations. The commission as a whole expressed a preference for allowing multi-tenant buildings provided all tenants are commercial recreation uses (i.e., no mixing with industrial uses). - Staff indicated they could revise the draft resolution to reflect this intent before the item receives a public hearing and first reading at the City Council (scheduled for July 2026). - Vote: Motion to recommend the amendments to the City Council with the revision allowing multi-tenant buildings dedicated entirely to commercial recreation. (Motion by Jesson, second by Lyle. Vote: 4-0). Key Outcomes - Consent calendar approved. - Right-of-way vacation for 650 East N Street approved. - FY 25/26 - FY 26/27 CIP found consistent with the General Plan. - Staff was directed to revise the indoor commercial recreation code amendment to allow multi-tenant buildings before the item proceeds to the City Council for first and second readings. - No public testimony was offered on any agenda item.

The Benicia City Council met at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, in City Council Chambers at Benicia City Hall, with Zoom participation available. Four councilmembers participated in the recorded votes; Vice Mayor Macenski was absent. The Council adopted the agenda, received public comment, heard a Pride Month proclamation and the V.I.B.E. presentation, took up business license tax modernization, released pension reserve funds, adopted the 2025 Urban Water Management Plan and Water Shortage Contingency Plan, and approved a solar operations and maintenance agreement. Call to Order, Agenda, and Public Comment - The meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m.; roll call was taken and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. The Mayor noted his office hours are held the first and third Mondays of each month from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m. - The Council adopted the agenda by a 4-0 roll call vote. - Public comment on non-agenda items included: - A speaker expressed support for Benicia's transition to a charter city, arguing a local constitution would allow Benicia to challenge state mandates, increase local control over revenues and taxes, and prioritize local community positions over state measures such as the builder's remedy and SB 9. The same speaker also expressed frustration with the city's budget and tax measures, saying the city should 'stick to a budget.' - A second speaker gave an update on community fundraising for the Fourth of July fireworks show: about $14,949 had been raised from 69 donations, six teams were competing, and the 'Team Light Up Benicia' team had raised $1,625. The speaker also reported that the farmers market now attracts about 4,500 people per week, up from 3,000, and previewed a wine walk and waterfront weekend. Proclamation and Presentations - Mayor Steve Young read a proclamation designating June 2026 as LGBTQIA+ Pride Month in Benicia. Representatives of Solano Pride and the Benicia LGBTQ Network accepted the proclamation and noted historic milestones including the Stonewall uprising and the 60th anniversary of the Compton Cafeteria riot. A speaker urged continued support for the trans community, citing federal targeting and the migration of an estimated 435,000 people, mostly trans individuals, from red states to blue states. A flag-raising event was announced for Thursday at 9:00 a.m. - The Mayor reviewed subcommittee recommendations for boards, commissions, and committees, thanked the applicants, and said formal appointments would be made at the next meeting on June 16. - Lauren Steele, chair of the V.I.B.E. (Values Inclusion Belonging Equity) committee, presented the group's work: monthly cross-departmental meetings, proclamations, events such as the Ruby Bridges Walk to School and Fiestas Primavera, a citywide staff training in January, and an annual operating budget of $32,900. V.I.B.E. will host a community resource fair on June 24 from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. in the donor room and senior center. Consent Calendar - The consent calendar contained five routine items: - Approval of minutes from the May 19, 2026 special and regular City Council meetings. - Third Amendment with Anvil Security Services, Inc. for Lopes Road bypass water pipeline security: a limited extension of up to 12 additional weeks (June 16 through September 8, 2026) at $29 per hour or $4,872 per week, not to exceed $58,464, plus budget amendments. - First Amendment with HF&H Consultants for solid waste and recycling franchise services in the amount of $93,070, increasing the not-to-exceed total to $293,070, plus a budget amendment. - Establishment of the FY 2026-27 annual appropriations limit under Article XIIIB of the California Constitution at $143,160,344. - Waiver of reading of all ordinances introduced or adopted pursuant to the agenda. - The transcribed record moves from the consent calendar to the next business item without capturing an explicit vote on the consent calendar; the minutes were not available for confirmation. Business License Tax Modernization - The Council reviewed an updated Business License Tax Study from HDL consultant Eric. City Manager Mario Giuliani asked the Council to narrow its choices rather than create new models. - Models and estimates presented included: - Model One, Option One: variable gross receipts tax with business categories and a $10,000 small-business exemption; estimated revenue of roughly $2.8 million, about a $2.2 million increase. - Model One, Option Two: revised gross receipts model with lower rates, a $100,000 exemption, and a $100,000 cap; estimated total revenue of about $1.9 million, about a $1.3 million increase. A separate marine terminal rate of $3 per $100 of gross receipts was estimated to generate about $1 million by itself, but the $100,000 cap would reduce marine terminal revenue to about $100,000. - Model Two: tiered gross receipts model, unchanged from the prior study. - Model Three: progressive gross receipts model with fewer business classifications. - Model Four: a new per-employee model with four broad business categories and a $75 micro-business tier, proposed by Councilmember Largaespada to simplify compliance and avoid gross receipts reporting. Staff estimated it could generate roughly $1.5 million in total revenue, an increase of about $900,000. - Councilmember Birdseye supported Model One, Option One with the $100,000 exemption, calling it the most equitable and best understood by businesses; she asked staff to identify outlier businesses that would face unusually large increases. Councilmember Scott also supported Model One, Option One with the $100,000 exemption, citing protection for small and new businesses and fairness, and requested percent-change comparisons for existing businesses. Councilmember Largaespada supported Model Four, saying it was the simplest option for businesses and still produced reasonable revenue; he opposed a blanket $100,000 exemption because it would still require gross receipts reporting. - The Council did not reach consensus on a preferred model. It directed staff to return with more detailed per-business and per-category impact comparisons, including outlier analysis and percentage increases, focused on Model One, Option One and Model Four. Staff was also directed to explore treating the marine terminal separately; Councilmembers expressed openness to marine terminal rates around $1 to $3 per $100 of gross receipts. The Council also indicated that a business owning multiple rental properties should be treated as one business with one business license rather than requiring a license for each property. - No public comments were made on this item. Pension Designation Release - The Council considered a resolution authorizing release of $1,547,858 from the Pension Designation reserve commitment and transferring it to the Section 115 Trust, with budget amendments in the same amount. Because not all five Councilmembers were present, a majority vote was sufficient. - Finance staff explained that the Section 115 Trust mitigates future CalPERS investment-risk volatility and can be used in a fiscal emergency to pay normal pension contributions. Mayor Young and Councilmember Largaespada expressed support, framing the transfer as prudent preparation for an unavoidable future liability. City Manager Giuliani said the action avoided repeating past underfunding mistakes. - The Council adopted the resolution 4-0. 2025 Urban Water Management Plan and Water Shortage Contingency Plan - Galen Davis of Zanhero presented the 120-page 2025 Urban Water Management Plan (UWMP) and Water Shortage Contingency Plan (WSCP). Benicia is an urban water supplier because it serves more than 3,000 connections; in 2025 it had about 9,700 connections and served just under 10,000 acre-feet of water. The plan projects demand to 2050 and covers supplies from the Sacramento River via the North Bay Aqueduct and State Water Project, the Solano Project, Lake Herman, and the Sulphur Springs watershed. The reliability analysis showed adequate supply through a single dry year, a five-year drought, and the 25-year planning horizon. - The WSCP has been activated three times since 2020: Stage 2 in 2022, Stage 4 during a 2023 line break, and Stage 4 during a 2025 line break. - Mayor Young questioned whether any city can claim plenty of water through a severe five-year drought, noting the poor condition of the North Bay Aqueduct and water quality concerns. Councilmember Birdseye said Benicia is comparatively well-positioned because of its water assets and management. Councilmember Largaespada asked about the biggest uncertainties, and Davis cited hydrology, infrastructure, and regulatory actions such as Delta water quality requirements; he also said the city's excess raw water should be treated as a strategic asset. Councilmember Scott emphasized that water availability will constrain future growth and that the plan's growth projections appeared conservative. - During the public hearing, one remote speaker recommended requiring rainwater harvesting and storage in future development, noting that 20-30 percent of local water is used for landscaping. - The Council closed the public hearing and adopted the resolution approving the 2025 UWMP and WSCP by a 4-0 vote, directing Public Works to submit the plans to the California Department of Water Resources by July 1, 2026. Solar Preventative Maintenance, Repairs, and Upgrades Agreement - The Council considered a resolution approving a five-year agreement with Opterra Energy Services, LLC for solar preventative maintenance, repairs, and upgrades in an amount not to exceed $1,603,200, plus budget amendments. - Staff reported that following Council direction on April 7, 2026, the City asked Opterra to reduce the annual labor escalator to 3%, remove material markups, and lower the equipment markup to 5%. Opterra declined and asked that the original fee structure remain. Staff recommended approval, citing the need to restore revenue from offline solar systems. The City Attorney explained that the agreement uses the city's standard professional services template and that the disputed items were part of Opterra's cost proposal, which had been negotiated in another public entity's procurement. - Mayor Young raised a broader concern about Council oversight of procurement terms such as markups and escalators; Councilmember Birdseye and others opposed renegotiating from the dais and supported moving forward. Councilmember Largaespada proposed a future discussion of procurement processes. - No public comments were received. The Council adopted the resolution 4-0. Key Outcomes - Agenda adopted 4-0. - LGBTQIA+ Pride Month proclamation issued for June 2026. - Appointments to boards, commissions, and committees deferred to June 16. - Business license tax modernization: no final model selected; staff to develop detailed impacts and outliers for Model One, Option One and Model Four, including marine terminal treatment, for a future meeting before the July 22 ballot-measure direction date. - $1,547,858 released from Pension Designation to the Section 115 Trust (4-0). - 2025 UWMP and WSCP adopted and ordered submitted to DWR by July 1, 2026 (4-0). - Opterra solar agreement approved in an amount not to exceed $1,603,200 (4-0). The meeting then adjourned.

At its regular meeting on May 21, 2026, the Benicia Local Tax Oversight Board reviewed local tax revenues through the fourth quarter of 2025, including sales tax data for Measures C, B, and F, and transient occupancy tax. The board also received an update on Measure F spending plans and provided direction to staff on future reporting. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The board unanimously approved the minutes of the February 26, 2026 regular meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke, either in person or via Zoom. Discussion Items - Local Tax Revenue Review: Budget Manager Roxana Morati presented the transient occupancy tax (Measure A) update, noting a revised budget of $500,000, second-quarter actuals of nearly $400,000, and a forecast of $730,000, indicating performance above budget. Bobby Young of HDL Companies then presented sales tax revenue for Measures C, B, and F. - Measure C (1-cent transactions and use tax): Down 1.9% year-over-year in the fourth quarter of 2025 ($1,907,000 vs. $1,949,000). Declines were driven by business/industry and building/construction categories, attributed to a high base of one-time revenues in the prior year. General consumer goods grew nearly 5%, driven by online shopping and holiday spending. Restaurants and hotels grew 4.7%. - Measure B (3/4-cent tax): Down 1.1% year-over-year, with similar category trends and a smaller comparison history. - Measure F (1/2-cent tax): Too new for year-over-year comparison; first full quarter of collections began in April 2025. - Question from Councilmember Largaspada: Asked about the split between online and brick-and-mortar sales in the consumer goods category. Staff noted such data is difficult to isolate because many retailers report combined sales; they agreed to follow up with additional research. - Question from Councilmember Scott: Asked for clarification on “one-time revenue.” Bobby Young explained that transactions and use taxes capture large, non-recurring purchases (e.g., equipment deliveries, construction materials shipped into the city) that are not expected to repeat regularly. - Chair Polk: Asked whether the 4.7% restaurant/hotel growth was due to higher prices or increased foot traffic. Young responded that both factors were at play, with cost increases driving statewide growth of about 1.5%, but Benicia’s stronger growth also reflected stable consumer behavior. - Communications from Staff: Finance Director Jeff updated the board on the status of Measure F spending. The first pavement project to receive Measure F funds is the 2026 pavement project, which will go out for bid on June 2 and is expected to be awarded at the June 16 council meeting. Most project expenses will fall in fiscal year 2027. - Councilmember Largaspada: Suggested that future agendas include a presentation from Public Works summarizing Measure F expenditures alongside revenue, to help the public see where funds are being spent. - Councilmember Scott: Supported the idea but cautioned against overcomplicating the board’s role; a simple commentary on spending would suffice. - Chair Polk: Proposed adding a reference section to future consent calendars that lists relevant budget and financial reports produced between meetings, along with links, rather than requiring full presentations. Board members agreed. Key Outcomes - Direction to Staff: The board directed staff to include, in future meeting packets, a reference section listing recent financial and budget reports (e.g., annual comprehensive financial report, city manager’s tax summary mailer) that have been published since the last meeting, providing links for the public. This is intended to increase transparency without expanding the board’s scope. - Next Meeting: Scheduled for August 2026 (specific date not stated).

The Benicia City Council met on May 19, 2026, beginning at 6:00 PM at City Hall. Council Members Birdseye, Largaespada, and Scott were present with Mayor Steve Young. Vice Mayor Macenski was absent. The meeting covered a solid waste franchise update, Bay Area Air District REPAIR grant applications, the first public hearing on a proposed limited city charter and Real Property Transfer Tax (RPTT), a Q3 budget report, and a discussion on alcohol and tobacco retail regulations. Presentations - Solid Waste Franchise Agreement Update: Rob Hilton (HF&H Consultants) presented a plan to replace the existing agreement with Republic Services. The proposed new term is seven years (July 2027 – June 2034) with a three-year extension option. Key elements include a Prop 218 compliant rate structure with annual adjustments capped at 6%, expansion of bulky item and household hazardous waste programs to multifamily residents, and incorporating street sweeping. Councilmembers Largaespada (service level agreements, transition timelines), Birdseye (current provider history, electric truck phase-in, street sweeping effectiveness), and Scott (contract term, administrative vs. council rate approvals) asked clarifying questions. Public commenters Kathy Carridge raised concerns about combining paper and cans in recycling, and Ms. Bardet expressed support for continuing the kitchen waste pail program. Consent Calendar - The following items were approved 4-0 with no items pulled for discussion: - Minutes from the April 21 and April 28, 2026 meetings. - Request to fly the Rainbow Pride Flag for June 2026. - Request to fly the Juneteenth Liberation Flag. - Budget amendment for the FY 24/25 CalRecycle Payment Program ($6,352.70). - Stantec Consulting Services Master Agreement Amendment (increased to $633,000). - Reimbursement Agreement with the City of Fairfield for OBAG Cycle 2 ($334,710). - Waiving the reading of all ordinances. Discussion Items 1. Bay Area Air District REPAIR Opportunity Grant Applications (15.A) - City Application: The council adopted a resolution (4-0) authorizing submission of the city's "Benicia Energy and Air Quality Rebate Program" application for up to $5 million. The proposed program would offer rebates for home electrification, solar, HVAC, and other improvements. A key debate occurred over prioritization: Mayor Young advocated for dedicating the first year of funding exclusively to fence-line neighborhoods (e.g., the Robert Semple attendance area) to ensure equity and align with Air District priorities. Councilmember Birdseye expressed full support for the program but concern about limiting it geographically, preferring a citywide rollout with strong targeted outreach. Staff proposed flexible prioritization using outreach, spending caps, and a final-year focus. Public commenter Kathy Carriage praised the comprehensive scope, while Ms. Bardet cautioned against formally using the term "EJ community" based on state designations. - Co-Applicant Resolutions: The council unanimously authorized the city to serve as a co-applicant for three community partner grants: BCAMP (expanded air monitoring network), Benicia Unified School District (Middle School field renovation), and Sustainable Solano (green infrastructure, youth corps, eco-arts). Councilmember Birdseye questioned the city's obligation; staff clarified it primarily involves grant administration, reporting, and oversight of city property. 2. Public Hearing: Limited Charter & Real Property Transfer Tax (15.B) - This was the first of two required public hearings for placing a limited city charter on the November 2026 ballot. The sole purpose of the proposed charter is to allow the city to enact a Real Property Transfer Tax (RPTT). City Manager Giuliani contextualized the need, citing $10.5 million in projected annual revenue loss from Valero's closure and $215 million in city infrastructure needs. - The proposed RPTT is a three-tiered structure ($4/$6/$8 per $1,000 of sale value). It includes a key exemption for existing residential properties (built before Jan 1, 2027) sold for under $1.5 million, which would exempt 98.5% of current annual residential sales. Initial revenue is estimated at roughly $400,000 per year, growing to an estimated $4.3 million by 2050. - Councilmembers debated the exemption threshold. Councilmember Birdseye recommended raising the exemption to $2 million to ensure political viability and assure voters. Councilmember Scott and Mayor Young discussed market impacts and the complexity of an escalator clause. Staff noted raising the threshold would lower the 2050 projection to roughly $3.7 million but supported council direction. - The public hearing was closed. No formal action was taken on the tax itself tonight. 3. FY 2025/26 Third Quarter Budget Report (15.C) - Budget Manager Roxana Marati presented the Q3 report, which was accepted by the council (4-0). Staff projected no use of the reserve for fiscal uncertainty this year. The year-end revenue forecast improved by $0.6 million from the mid-year report, though sales tax remains underperforming. Measure F is projected at $3.5 million compared to its ballot estimate of $4 million. - Councilmember Largaespada asked about the sustainability of relying on vacancy savings. City Manager Giuliani stated it is not a long-term solution but is a necessary bridge strategy while the city pursues Air District grants, priority-based budgeting, and economic transition post-Valero. 4. Alcohol and Tobacco Retail Regulations (15.D) - This discussion item sought council direction for code amendments. Staff flagged the current 2019 tobacco retail ordinance as highly restrictive, difficult to enforce, and impactful on proposed alcohol retail regulations due to broad definitions (e.g., including daycares in proximity rules) and a 1,000-foot buffer. - Public commenters from SIPS (KB, Mr. Hare) urged a distinction between mass-market retailers and premium cigar lounges, an interim moratorium on new licenses, and a 1,000-foot spacing buffer between primary retailers. - Councilmembers provided the following direction to staff: - Remove daycares, kindergartens, and commercial recreation uses from the proximity definition of "youth-oriented facility." - Reduce the proximity buffer for tobacco retail from 1,000 feet to 500 feet. - Explore definitions for primary vs. incidental alcohol/tobacco retailers to allow specialty venues. - Explore zoning amendments to allow premium cigar lounges with age verification and ventilation standards. - Return with draft ordinance amendments. 5. Consor Task Order for Pavement Rehab (15.E) - The council approved a task order with Consor North America for construction management services on the 2026 Citywide Pavement Rehabilitation Project (Zones 6 and 17) in the amount of $325,656.72. The vote was 4-0. Key Outcomes & Votes - Consent Calendar: Approved 4-0. - REPAIR Grant (City Application): Resolution adopted 4-0. - REPAIR Grant (Co-Applicants): Resolution adopted 4-0. - Q3 Budget Report: Accepted 4-0. - Consor Task Order: Approved 4-0. - RPTT Hearing Direction: Staff to prepare final language reflecting a potential $2M residential exemption threshold for the second public hearing. - Alcohol/Tobacco Direction: Staff to draft amendments reducing the buffer to 500 ft, removing specific youth facility definitions, and creating a pathway for premium cigar lounges.

The Benicia City Council met on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at 6:00 PM. The meeting covered the adoption of most consent calendar items, detailed deliberation on city council rules, acceptance of the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR), approval of the 2027 Citywide Pavement Rehabilitation project list, and the approval of a Disposition and Development Agreement (DDA) for the Benicia Senior Affordable Housing project. Consent Calendar - Approval of 2026 State Water Project Water Transfer (14A): Councilmember Terry Scott received clarification from staff that selling 2,000 acre-feet of carryover water does not impact future allotments and the estimated $950,000 in proceeds will be deposited into the utilities fund. The resolution passed 5-0. - Routine Approvals (14B, 14C, 14E, 14F): Items approving publicly available salary schedules, a budget amendment accepting a $76,144 grant for fire department extrication tools, amendments to the city's conflict of interest code, and the waiver of ordinance readings were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Mary Williams (Owner, Little Art Shop; Board Member, Benicia Art Gallery Alliance): Expressed strong opposition to the current business license fee structure for artists, stating a typical first-year license totals over $654. She urged the council against duplicate BID assessment charges and called for a simplified, transparent fee system. - Peggy (Community Member): Provided an update on the upcoming Benicia Arts Festival on June 6th, detailing planned collaborations with local galleries, musicians, and organizations. - Mike Gilmetti (President, Signature Development Group): Announced plans for a preliminary application to redevelop the Valero property. He expressed a commitment to extensive community outreach and collaboration. Mayor Young requested scheduling a formal presentation to the council in the future. - Rachel Stacey (Property owner, B Street): Proposed a sticker-based permit system for residents on B Street to alleviate parking congestion. Mayor Young acknowledged the complexity of downtown parking enforcement. Review of City Council Rules of Procedure (Item 14D) This item prompted significant deliberation. Vice Mayor Trevor Macenski advocated for reverting the public comment time limit from three minutes to five minutes. Councilmember Kari Birdseye stated three minutes is the standard among other California cities she surveyed. Mayor Young noted he often allows speakers to exceed the official limit. Vice Mayor Macenski also requested staff investigate procedural updates including instant electronic voting, clerk-managed speaker timers, policies for late-running meetings, and procedures for substitute motions. City Attorney Lori Grundman confirmed the time limit is codified in the municipal code. Outcome: Staff was directed to return with a comprehensive proposal for council consideration. No immediate changes were adopted. Acceptance of the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (Item 15.A) Finance Director Jeff Shute presented the report. Auditor Rich Gonzalez (Clifton Larson Allen) issued an unmodified (clean) opinion on the city's financial statements. One material weakness was identified (accrued dental liability), which management had proactively corrected prior to the audit's release. All three material weaknesses from the prior fiscal year were successfully resolved. Roxana Morati detailed the financial position. The total net position increased by 6.4% to $231.8 million. General fund revenues were $65.6 million and expenditures were $54.8 million. An unassigned fund balance of $7.5 million was allocated to various reserves per policy. The city's deferred maintenance backlog is $64.3 million. The council accepted the report by a 5-0 vote. 2027 Citywide Pavement Rehabilitation Project (Item 15.B) Public Works staff presented the proposed street list utilizing Measure F ($4M/yr), SB 1 ($760k/yr), and franchise fees ($200k/yr). The city has a PCI of 52 and $64.3 million in deferred maintenance. A 24-zone approach was outlined, with Zones 2 and 20 scheduled for the 2027 program. Downtown improvements were a central focus, including bike lanes, parking lot paving, and pedestrian upgrades. Public Testimony: - Residents Stan Winkley and Kathy Carriage urgently requested the repair of a severely deteriorated 250-foot segment of West I Street, citing safety hazards, dust, and liability risks. They asked for it to be accelerated from the planned 2030 schedule. - An online speaker noted the inequity in property tax burdens impacting infrastructure funding. Council Discussion: Councilmember Lionel Largaespada raised Bayview Circle, a street omitted from the current program due to an administrative error, requesting prioritization for this public housing neighborhood. Despite concerns from the City Manager about bypassing the technical prioritization system, a compromise was reached. Outcome: The resolution approving the streets list was passed 5-0. Council directed staff to study the specific sections of West I Street and Bayview Circle, providing cost estimates and a potential timeline for council consideration. Disposition and Development Agreement for Senior Affordable Housing (Item 15.C) Amy Thornton presented the DDA with developer Eden Housing. The project is a scattered-site, 100% affordable development (90+ units) for residents aged 55 and older, located at the Scout property and Senior Center/Library parking lot. Building heights were reduced to a maximum of three stories based on community feedback. A one-for-one replacement of existing public parking was confirmed. Public Testimony: Brett (online commenter) expressed strong support for the project but requested consideration for assisted living and memory care services, calling the current plan short-sighted for lacking a continuum of care. Eden Housing confirmed these services are not within the current scope. Councilmember Largaespada commended the strong terms of the agreement. The council adopted the resolution 5-0, authorizing the City Manager to execute the DDA. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Resolutions for the water transfer, salary schedules, and extrication tool grant were approved unanimously. - Council Rules: Staff directed to return with a comprehensive proposal on potential procedural updates. - ACFR (FY 24-25): Accepted unanimously. The city received a clean audit opinion. - Pavement Rehab (2027): Streets list approved. Staff will study and report on accelerating repairs for a segment of West I Street and Bayview Circle. - Senior Housing DDA: The agreement with Eden Housing was approved, advancing a 90+ unit affordable senior housing development.

The Benicia Board of Library Trustees met on May 4, 2026, at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers, adjourning at 6:36 PM. All five trustees were present: Vice President Carolyn Catlone, Secretary Lois Kazakhov, Trustee Linda Ordonio Dixon, Trustee Ruth Workman, and President Todd Hickey. The agenda was adopted unanimously, and no public comments were made. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The board reviewed and unanimously approved the minutes from the April 6, 2026 meeting, with a minor correction: changing "game switches" to "Nintendo Switches" as noted by Trustee Workman. Reports and Presentations - Volunteer and Outreach Report (7.A): City Librarian Jennifer presented Julia Butler's report, noting that approximately 30% of library volunteers contribute their time at the library, making a significant impact. - City Librarian Report (7.C): Jennifer provided a comprehensive update: - Financial: On track for the fiscal year; awaiting final third-quarter projections from finance due to staffing adjustments and literacy grant fund reallocation. - Grants: Requested a one-week extension for the adult literacy grant application and an ESL grant extension through August to use salary savings; both submitted to the state. Negotiations with Solano County to take over part of the literacy program are progressing. - Courier Service: Exploring replacing the current NorthNet/Ride On contract with Solano County’s in-house courier, which would save money. - Hotspots: Expanding from 9 units (costing $500/month) to 25 units under a new T-Mobile library plan at $50/unit one-time fee and $9.99/month per unit, saving approximately half the current cost. New hotspots can be remotely turned off to enforce returns. - Book Bike Pods: Awaiting official award for a grant-funded pod; the board committed local funds to order a second pod, aiming for two total. - Public Computers: Reducing to five Chromebooks using the MyPC platform (replacing Userful, which is sunsetting). Transition to new fiber internet (Scenic) is nearly complete; temporary reconnection to Solano was needed when Userful went down. - Events: Lucha Libro event on April 26 drew 267 attendees; cleanup included using a leaf blower to remove popcorn. Summer reading kickoff is set for June 6. - Board Liaison Reports (7.D): - Art Gallery Advisory: Soliciting applications for next year’s exhibits (deadline June, selection by August). The library gallery will participate in Benicia Arts Festival on June 6, featuring a pink rose display and trolley stops. - Friends of the Library: Discussed jointly applying for an air district grant with the Library Foundation but ultimately decided not to apply; the city manager will connect them with a grant writer. - Library Foundation: Highlighted a successful planned giving event (video available) and emphasized the newfound collaboration between Friends and Foundation as a major win. - Poet Laureate Committee: Expects to present a recommendation to the board at the next meeting. - Historical Museum/Historical Society: Launched a joint "History Corner" table at the farmers market (every fourth Thursday). Upcoming events: Alan Gandhi talk on the Benicia-Martinez railroad bridge (May 17), home history research workshop (June), and a Mother’s Day craft activity at the museum (May 9). Key Outcomes - The board unanimously approved the consent calendar minutes with the noted correction. - Significant progress reported on hotspot expansion (9 → 25 units), public computer modernization, and book bike pod acquisition. - Collaboration between the Friends and Foundation, and between the Historical Society and Museum, was celebrated as a positive development. - Trustee Workman shared two community testimonials: a library staff praised for excellent service, and a fourth-grader who requested her birthday party be held at the library’s game night—demonstrating broad community engagement. - The next regular meeting is scheduled for June 1, 2026.

The Zoning Administrator convened a continuation of the April 7, 2026 public hearing at 9:30 AM to consider a parcel map application (PLN-25-15) for 1112 East Sixth Street. The applicant proposes subdividing a 0.57-acre parcel into two parcels (A and B) without any new development. No public comments were received, and the decision was deferred for a written determination within 10 days. Discussion Items - 1112 East Sixth Street Parcel Map (PLN-25-15): Staff planner Vivian Tagenon presented the project. The existing property contains three apartment buildings (one eight-unit building on proposed Parcel A, two four-unit buildings on proposed Parcel B) totaling 16 residential units. The lot split would create Parcel A (0.262 acres) and Parcel B (0.313 acres). The existing structures are legally nonconforming regarding setbacks, but the split does not intensify any nonconformities. A 36-inch storm drain pipe crosses the property. Parcel A has seven covered parking spaces; Parcel B has 11 uncovered parking spaces (eight west of the buildings, three north). The project is categorically exempt from CEQA under Guidelines Sections 15301 (Existing Facilities) and 15315 (Minor Land Divisions). Public noticing was completed on March 12, 2026, with no written comments received. The applicant was present but had no additional comments. Key Outcomes - The Zoning Administrator deferred the final decision, stating that pursuant to Benicia Municipal Code Section 17.104.050(B), the Development Services Director will approve, conditionally approve, or disapprove the application within 10 days of the hearing. The determination will be based on the information presented and the parcel map’s conformance with the Map Act, General Plan, and Municipal Code.

The Benicia City Council met on April 28, 2026, at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers, with Mayor Steve Young presiding. The council discussed two major items: an informational workshop on Business License Tax Modernization and consideration to place a Limited City Charter and Real Property Transfer Tax (RPTT) on the November 2026 ballot. Proclamations & Announcements - Mayor Young proclaimed April 2026 as Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Jackie from SafeQuest Solano reported that in 2025 the organization served 9,001 individuals impacted by sexual assault and domestic violence across Solano County. Consent Calendar - Adoption of Agenda: The council unanimously voted to adopt the agenda. - Minutes: The council approved the minutes from the April 7, 2026 special and regular meetings without objection. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 15.A - Business License Tax: Vicky Schmarshawn, representing the Benicia Art Gallery Alliance, spoke in opposition to expanding license requirements to artists and musicians, citing burdens on small businesses and urging a balanced approach. - Item 15.B - Charter/RPTT: No public comments were offered. Discussion Items 15.A - Business License Tax Modernization (Informational Workshop) City Manager Mario Giuliani and Eric Myers of HDL presented a study on modernizing the business license tax, noting it had been 23 years since the last update. Three models were presented: 1. Variable Gross Receipts Rate: Estimated $2.2 million in new revenue. 2. Tiered Gross Receipts Rate: Estimated $500,000 in new revenue. 3. Progressive Tiered Gross Receipts Rate: Estimated $4.3 million in new revenue. A separate marine terminal tax was considered at $1 to $3 per $100 of gross receipts. Councilmembers debated simplicity vs. revenue. Vice Mayor Macenski proposed a hybrid model with a high floor and low rates for retail. Councilmember Largaespada advocated for a simpler, revenue-neutral model and a $100,000 exemption. Councilmember Birdseye sought exemptions for artists and a distinction for small rental property owners. Councilmember Scott pushed for competitiveness with adjacent cities. The consensus was to simplify, raise exemptions, and return with an updated model. 15.B - Limited City Charter and RPTT Ballot Measures Sarah Shuey and Michael Perkins presented a plan to place a Limited City Charter and a Real Property Transfer Tax (RPTT) on the November 2026 ballot. The proposed RPTT tiers were: - $4 per $1,000 up to $2 million. - $6 per $1,000 for $2-$10 million. - $8 per $1,000 over $10 million. Existing residential properties are exempt if sold under $1.5 million, insulating most owners for over a decade. The tax is estimated to generate $400,000 annually initially. Councilmember Largaespada opposed the measure, citing the 2024 defeat and long-term costs. Mayor Young, Councilmember Scott, and Councilmember Birdseye supported it, citing the city's structural deficit worsened by the loss of Valero. The Mayor also noted lessons learned from the 2024 outreach campaign. Key Outcomes - Business License Tax: Staff was directed to develop a refined model incorporating the council's feedback and return with a proposal. - Charter and RPTT (Item 15.B): - Vote: The motion passed. The roll call record shows five "Yes" votes, although Councilmember Largaespada had articulated clear opposition during the discussion. - Next Steps: Staff will perform additional analysis and begin the public hearing process to meet the August deadline for the November 2026 ballot. Adjournment - The meeting was adjourned following the conclusion of the business items.

On April 27, 2026, the Benicia Community Sustainability Commission held a special meeting from 4:05 PM to 6:04 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. The meeting was convened to receive presentations from four local organizations applying for Bay Area Air District (BAAMD) Opportunity Grants. The purpose was to satisfy community engagement requirements; the commission did not vote or endorse any proposal. Agenda Amendment - Item 7D (NetZero360 Sustainable Waste Solutions) was removed from the agenda by a unanimous motion. Public Comments & Testimony - A former mayor spoke in support of the Benicia Historical Society's caboose project, recounting its origins over 25 years ago and emphasizing its value in providing historical context at the depot. No other public comments were offered. Discussion Items 1. Benicia Historical Society – Caboose Air Quality Index Portal - Presentation: Kerry K. Carney proposed restoring Southern Pacific Caboose 4741 at the depot with a digital QR code linking to a real-time air quality index (AQI) portal. The project targets a 15% increase in waterfront foot traffic and reaching 1,000 visitors annually. Grant request: $200,000; additional fundraising of $66,000–$100,000 needed. The caboose will be a visual art piece with fencing, not open for access. - Commissioner Feedback: Questions covered permits, timeline (two years), data source (likely BCAMP), and long-term maintenance. Commissioners urged a stronger connection to air quality as the primary grant focus and recommended demonstrating feasibility with detailed budgets and upkeep costs. 2. Sustainable Solano – From Soil to Society: A Just Transition Initiative - Presentation: Allison Nagel outlined a three-part project: youth internships with community outreach on just transition, urban greening (13 forestry projects, Swenson Garden expansion, food forests), and a 1–2 acre urban farm on city property. Partners include Benicia Tree Foundation, Arts Benicia, and Fourth Second (Vallejo). Budget: under $3 million over three years. The organization’s track record includes 80+ gardens countywide, 4.7 million gallons annual water savings. - Commissioner Feedback: They asked for specific tree counts (90+ in recent year), farm infrastructure costs (water, sustainability), and a long-term funding model. Commissioners praised the organization’s history and youth engagement but stressed the need for clear budget allocations and a sustainability plan after grant completion. 3. Benicia Performing Arts Foundation – Performing Arts & Resilience Center - Presentation: Bart Sullivan and Joe Russell proposed a modular dual-use facility serving as a performing arts venue and community resilience hub (cooling/warming stations, meeting space). Target: $5 million. Lead applicant: Benicia Community Foundation. No site selected; model inspired by California Theatre (Santa Rosa) and a small prototype studio "The Escape." The foundation has annual grants of $25,000. - Commissioner Feedback: Support for the concept but concerns about alignment with grant goals (air quality mitigation and just transition). Commissioners suggested emphasizing green building, net-zero energy, and clear resilience benefits. They recommended providing renderings, data on emissions reduction, and letters of support from local arts groups. 4. Benicia Community Air Monitoring Program (BCAMP) – Integrated Air Monitoring Network - Presentation: David Lindsay and Don Gamiles proposed a citywide air monitoring network: four new point stations (at Hastings Fire Station, Robert Semple School, downtown fire station, and Benicia High School) and two optical sensing units. Includes a unified website, alert app, and health study with UCLA (budgeted $7,000+). Total cost $5 million; annual maintenance $150,000. The network would be the second of its kind in the U.S. - Commissioner Feedback: They praised data quality and expertise but questioned the high cost and how data would translate to community action. Presenters highlighted immediate benefits: school alerts, citizen science apps, and integration with fire department protocols. Commissioners encouraged emphasizing these actionable outcomes. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken; the commission did not endorse any application. - Commissioners offered constructive feedback focused on aligning with BAAMD criteria: air pollution mitigation, health impact, and just transition. - Applicants were advised to include specific data, long-term sustainability plans, and community engagement strategies. - The meeting fulfilled the community engagement requirement for the grant applications.