Public Meetings - Folsom, California

The Folsom City Council met on Tuesday, January 23, 2024, at 6:30 PM in the City Council Chambers at 50 Natoma Street. The meeting included presentations on the Holiday Lights contest and tourism quarterly report, public comment on two topics, unanimous approval of the consent calendar, and new business items covering design immunity, landmark tree removal, a bicycle/pedestrian overcrossing, a citizen award program, and a lengthy discussion on the excursion rail license agreement. The council also responded to a Brown Act demand letter and discussed future agenda items. Scheduled Presentations - Recognition of 2023 Folsom Holiday Lights Contest Winners – More than 55 entries were received across five categories. The promotion reached over 45,000 views on social media, and the Folsom Times collected over $3,500 in prizes from local businesses. Each category was judged by a council member, and winners were recognized: Ashley and Johnny (530 Flower Drive) – Holly Jolly Resident; Sean de Graff (152 Whitmer) – Hollywood Christmas; Richard and Helen (360 Lidstow Drive) – Clark Griswold; Bayside Church (890 Glenn Drive) – Merry and Bright Business; and the residents of Leggemont Court – Illuminate the Block. - Folsom Tourism and Economic Development Corporation (TEDCorp) Quarterly Report – President/CEO Joe Galliardi reported on upcoming announcements (new business, property escrow), a robotics company signing a lease, tourism studies (youth/outdoor recreation, entertainment venues, indoor recreation, special events), the chamber’s depot painting and general store opening, Project Momentum at Granite School, and workforce partnerships. He also discussed office market trends, vacancy rates, and the need for a dedicated revenue source (e.g., sales tax) to fund economic development projects like a second parking garage in the historic district. Consent Calendar - Approval of January 9, 2024 Regular Meeting Minutes - Ordinance No. 1341 – Repealing Chapter 2.42 (Initiative, Referendum, and Recall Petitions) – Second Reading and Adoption - Resolution No. 11158 – Transfer of Police Special Revenue Trust Funds for Drug Asset Forfeiture to Police Operating Budget and Equipment Purchase All consent calendar items were approved unanimously by a 5-0 vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Deborah Roberson – As a two-year resident, she expressed shock that no Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. parade was held in Folsom and requested a resolution for an annual parade and the creation of a Department of Diversity and Inclusion. - Mike Reynolds – He requested that the HDC recusal criteria be revised, specifically the removal of the 500-foot distance rule, to avoid losing commissioners on key votes. He also asked the city attorney to review income-based conflict definitions. Discussion Items - Item 6 – Ordinance No. 1342: Design Immunity – City Attorney Stephen Wong introduced an ordinance to formally document the city’s ability to raise the design immunity defense in lawsuits over dangerous conditions of public property. The ordinance, requested by the city’s risk pool, was approved on first reading unanimously (5-0). - Item 7 – Resolution No. 11159: Declassify Five Landmark Trees – Urban Forester Amy Nunez presented an application from Sacramento Regional Transit to remove five landmark trees along the JPA corridor to accommodate a second track for the Light Rail Modernization project (reducing headways from 30 to 15 minutes). The trees were designated in 1999. Mitigation will be paid via the in-lieu fee ($250 per inch of trunk diameter). Additional trees may be identified later. The resolution passed 5-0, with Councilmember Kozlowski voting reluctantly. - Item 8 – Resolution No. 11160: Folsom Boulevard Bicycle and Pedestrian Overcrossing – Senior Trails Planner Brett Bollinger presented the feasibility study recommending the North Alternative Alignment, which connects the Glenn Light Rail Station to State Parks and the Lake Natoma parking lot. The project would cost an estimated $15–20 million for construction (total project $19–28 million). The resolution approving the preferred alignment and authorizing staff to apply for Caltrans Cycle 7 Active Transportation Program grant funding passed 5-0. - Item 9 – Resolution No. 11161: Citizen Award and Recognition Program – Communications Officer Chris Shepard proposed a quarterly program where each council member nominates one recipient per quarter (20 per year). After discussion, the council agreed to an annual program with 1–2 nominees per council member to maintain the award’s specialness. The resolution was adopted 5-0 with direction to staff to implement an annual, not quarterly, program. - Item 10 – Update on Placerville Sacramento Valley Railroad (PSVRR) License Agreement – Brett Bollinger (CEO of the Sacramento Placerville Transportation Corridor JPA) and City Staff Mark Rackovan presented options for the excursion rail license, which expired at the end of 2023. PSVRR requested a seven-year (later ten-year) license to operate from Hampton Inn to La Trobe. Three alternatives were outlined: (1) temporary license until Southeast Connector funded, (2) move operations south of White Rock Road, (3) limit operations to the Y property to Blue Ravine. Extensive public comment (over 20 speakers) overwhelmingly supported the railroad, emphasizing its historical value, volunteer efforts, and economic benefits. The council directed staff to negotiate a seven-year license agreement with the JPA, excluding alternative 2 (moving south of White Rock). The motion passed 5-0. - Item 11 – Consideration of Letter in Response to Brown Act Demand Letter – The council approved a motion authorizing the mayor to send a reply letter to Scott Rafferty reaffirming the city’s commitment to Brown Act compliance. Vote: 5-0. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar approved 5-0. - Ordinance No. 1342 (Design Immunity) introduced and passed (5-0). - Resolution No. 11159 (Landmark tree declassification) adopted 5-0. - Resolution No. 11160 (Bicycle/pedestrian overcrossing preferred alignment) adopted 5-0. - Resolution No. 11161 (Citizen award program) adopted with amendment to annual frequency (5-0). - PSVRR License Agreement: Council directed staff to work with the JPA on a seven-year license, excluding alternative 2; motion passed 5-0. - Brown Act Response Letter: Approved 5-0. - Future Agenda Items: Councilmember Rohrbough requested updates on the strategic plan action steps and a homeless/crime discussion. Councilmember Chalamcherla requested a discussion on school funding partnerships (subject to city attorney review of Measure W implications).

The Folsom City Council met on Tuesday, January 9, 2024, at 6:30 PM in City Council Chambers. The meeting included scheduled presentations, public comments, consent calendar items, a public hearing, new business, and a lengthy discussion on a potential sales tax measure for the November 2024 ballot. Key actions included unanimous approval of most consent items, adoption of a specific plan amendment for an electronic readerboard sign, and appointment of three members to the Historic District Commission. The council also gave direction to staff to refine a special sales tax measure for further consideration in March. Consent Calendar - Items 4–16: Approved unanimously except items 11 and 12, which were pulled for discussion. - Item 11 (Resolution 11152): Consultant agreement for East Bidwell/Iron Point Road/US50 onramp improvement project. Councilmember Chalamcherla raised questions about procurement process; staff clarified the shortlist process. Approved unanimously. - Item 12 (Resolution 11153): Amendment to agreement with Terracare Associates for parks maintenance. Councilmember Rohrbough proposed using contingency funds to avoid service cuts; motion to continue the item failed 3-2 (Aquino, Rodriguez, Kozlowski opposed; Chalamcherla, Rohrbough in favor). The original consent item (with reduced scope) was then approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Judy Alexander: Criticized the city's lack of response to homelessness, urging measurable support and accurate point-in-time counts. - Steve Hurd (Folsom Chamber chair): Announced the Chamber board's support for a citizen-led 1% sales tax initiative, citing revenue shortfalls affecting public safety and quality of life; emphasized the measure includes accountability and oversight. - Dan Carson (Folsom Firefighters Association): Provided updates on signature gathering for the citizen initiative (goal of 6,900 signatures by April 24), endorsements from District Attorney and retired fire chief. - Bob Holderness (Folsom resident): Praised RT's 15-minute light rail project, highlighted affordability of monthly passes compared to driving costs, and shared a personal story of a family saving for college by using light rail. - Justin Rethel, Mike Reynolds, Loretta Hedinger, Bruce Klein: Spoke on the sales tax measure, offering suggestions on language, citizen trust, and the need for council leadership rather than outsourcing to a citizen group. Discussion Items - Scheduled Presentations: - Zoo Sanctuary 60th Anniversary: Resolution of commendation presented; staff and volunteers spoke about the zoo's role and outreach. - RT 15-Minute Light Rail: Craig Norman (RT) presented the project; construction underway (lane closures on Folsom Blvd for 6 months); completion late summer 2024; 15-minute peak service to Folsom. Council asked about traffic impacts and coordination with Bayside Church. - Item 17 – Public Hearing: Electronic Readerboard Sign: Staff recommended approval of specific plan amendment for one sign on parcel 61 (southwest corner of US 50 and East Bidwell). Planning Commission voted 5-1 to recommend approval. Council approved unanimously with no public speakers. - Item 18 – Historic District Commission Appointments: John Lane, Mark Descalos, and Kathleen Cole appointed unanimously for two-year terms. - Item 19 – Ordinance 1341 (Repeal of Chapter 2.42): Unanimous first reading to remove outdated and unconstitutional provisions on petition signature gatherers. - Item 20 – Potential Sales Tax Measure: Extensive discussion. Council agreed to place a revenue measure on the November 2024 ballot (in absence of citizen initiative). Majority favored a special tax (requires 2/3 vote) over a general tax. Debate on half-cent vs. full cent; council leaned toward 1% but left open. Categories: police, fire, parks/trails, traffic/street maintenance; economic development and capital improvements were debated. Direction to staff: refine language, research polling, and bring back to council in March. Key Outcomes - Votes: - Consent calendar items 4–10, 13–16 approved unanimously. - Item 11 (Resolution 11152) approved unanimously. - Item 12 (Resolution 11153) approved unanimously after motion to continue failed. - Item 17 (Resolution 11139) approved unanimously. - Item 18 (appointments) approved unanimously. - Item 19 (Ordinance 1341) first reading approved unanimously. - Sales Tax Measure: Council directed staff to prepare a special tax measure with refined categories (likely police, fire, parks, traffic, possibly economic development) and return for further discussion in March. No final decision on half vs. full cent. - Future Agenda Requests: Councilmember Aquino requested a presentation on police solutions for retail theft/homelessness and a timeline for a police substation in south Folsom. Councilmember Rohrbough requested discussion on ADU short-term rentals and annexation of American River Canyon into Folsom Cordova School District. - City Manager Reports: Noted zoo docent training, river district master planning survey, and CAPS volunteer recruitment. - Council Comments: Recognized National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, thanked staff for holiday decorations, and noted Folsom High School football championship.

On December 12, 2023, the Folsom City Council held a regular meeting alongside joint meetings of the Folsom Redevelopment Successor Agency, Folsom Public Financing Authority, Folsom Ranch Financing Authority, and South of 50 Parking Authority. The meeting included consent calendar approvals, public hearings, presentations, business from the floor, a discussion on the general fund reserve policy, and the selection of the 2024 mayor and vice mayor. Consent Calendar - The joint meeting consent calendar (monthly investment report for September 2023) was approved unanimously. - The regular meeting consent calendar was approved with items 9 and 12 pulled for discussion. Items 6, 7, 8, 10, 11, 13, 14, and 15 passed unanimously. Item 9 (Resolution 11136, accepting the AB1600 development fees annual report) and item 12 (Resolution 11143, rejecting all bids for park maintenance) were discussed and later approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Declaration on Inclusive Environment: Multiple speakers expressed appreciation for the council's declaration condemning violence in Israel and Palestine and reaffirming commitment to an inclusive, safe environment. Speakers like Rahan Alvi, Ashraf Abdalwa, and Riyaz Mohammed urged continued support for Palestinian civilians, citing casualty figures. Others expressed gratitude for the council's responsiveness to the Muslim community. - Business from the Floor: - Scott Rafferty criticized the city's resistance to district elections, arguing it violates the California Voting Rights Act and urged compliance. - Dan Carson, Carrie Lane, and others from "Folsom Residents Supporting Public Safety and Quality of Life" announced a citizen-led initiative for a one-cent sales tax to fund public safety, parks, and roads. They reported polling shows strong resident support and invited community to a kickoff event on December 20. - Hari, Ramana Penumarti, Dr. Paul Manikan, and Satish Chalinghi reported multiple vandalism and arson incidents in the Lakeview Oaks/Amber Ranch neighborhood on Diwali (November 12), including racial slurs and threats. They requested police action and updates. Councilmember Aquino noted a neighborhood meeting is scheduled and that the police department is investigating. Discussion Items - Joint Meeting Public Hearing (Item 2): CFO Stacey Tamani presented the issuance of up to $12.5 million in Special Tax Revenue Bonds for Community Facilities District No. 23, Improvement Area No. 2 (Folsom Ranch). The bonds will fund infrastructure improvements. The council unanimously adopted Resolution 11147 and Resolution 011 (Folsom Ranch Financing Authority). - Consent Calendar Item 9 – AB1600 Development Fees Report: Councilmember Rohrbough questioned the limited use of development impact fees for police and fire services, noting the available fund balances ($1.3M for police capital, $1.7M for general capital) and urged creative funding for police resources. City staff clarified fees are restricted to infrastructure. Police Chief Hillman confirmed three officer positions assigned to South of 50 are currently vacant, with coverage relying on overtime. - Consent Calendar Item 12 – Park Maintenance Bid Rejection: Parks Director Kelly Gonzalez reported that the only three bids received for landscape services were significantly over budget ($1.5M vs. $900K annual budget). Staff will rebid with reduced service levels. Council discussed inflation, contractor availability, and potential to divide the contract into smaller parcels. Resolution to reject all bids passed unanimously. - New Business (Item 17) – General Fund Reserve Policy: CFO Tamani presented options to change the current 15% minimum reserve to a range of 17–20% or 17–25%, based on GFOA best practices. Council debated and voted unanimously to adopt a range of 17–20% of annual operating expenditures. Staff will bring back a separate item to discuss uses for any excess above the ceiling, potentially creating additional reserve funds. Key Outcomes - Bond Approval: Unanimous approval of up to $12.5 million in special tax bonds for CFD No. 23 Improvement Area No. 2. - Reserve Policy Change: The council voted 5–0 to amend the general fund reserve policy from a 15% minimum to a range of 17–20% of annual operating expenditures. Staff will return with options for allocating funds above the ceiling. - Park Maintenance Bids Rejected: Unanimous vote to reject all bids; staff to rebid with reduced scope. - Selection of Mayor and Vice Mayor for 2024: Mike Kozlowski was elected mayor (3 votes to 2 over YK Chalamcherla). Sarah Aquino was elected vice mayor (3 votes to 2 over Chalamcherla). - Item Continuation: Public hearing item 16 (specific plan amendment for an electronic readerboard sign) was continued to January 9, 2024, on a 4–1 vote (Rohrbough opposed). - Council Requests: Councilmember Rohrbough requested recognition for long-serving community members (Carrie Howell, Joe Gagliardi, Will Kempton) at the January meeting. Vice Mayor Chalamcherla requested updates on East Bidwell Street restriping and safety improvements on Folsom Auburn Road. City Manager Reports & Council Comments - City Manager reported on UC Davis Health’s topping-out ceremony for a new medical office building, Santa visits, and the Folsom Bulldogs’ state football championship. - Councilmember Aquino shared her experience at COP28 in Dubai, highlighting green technology and workforce development. - Outgoing Mayor Rodriguez thanked staff and reflected on her term. Councilmembers expressed gratitude and holiday wishes.

The Folsom City Council held a regular meeting on November 28, 2023, beginning at approximately 6:30 PM (after a special meeting adjournment) and adjourning at 9:51 PM. The agenda included a presentation from the Folsom Cordova Unified School District (FCUSD) on district reorganization feasibility and facilities, adoption of the consent calendar, and a lengthy public comment period focused on the Israel-Palestine conflict, with many speakers urging the council to pass a ceasefire resolution. Council members also discussed future agenda items and provided reports. Consent Calendar - The consent calendar was adopted unanimously (5-0) after a motion by Councilmember Kozlowski and a second. The calendar included a revised staff report for item number four. Public Comments & Testimony - Elena Wagner (Folsom Ranch resident) expressed full support for building new schools in Folsom Ranch, noting that 86% of students in the SFID3 bond area live in Folsom Ranch and that two-thirds of bond money will be paid by Folsom Ranch residents through 2035. She urged the council to protect the city's investment by advocating for schools where students are. - Justin Zongk (retiring Navy veteran, Folsom Ranch resident) argued that the community south of Highway 50 must become self-sustaining to avoid "tipping over" and capsizing. He stated that the need for a high school is immediate, not by 2029, based on Navy recruiting data. - Sung Park (Folsom Ranch resident) requested the city council be present at future FCUSD board meetings and emphasize that Measure M funds should benefit all students in SFID3. He suggested separating SFID3 or using remaining funds to build a TK-12 foundation in both communities, with each community building on top later. - Over 60 speakers addressed the council during Business from the Floor, overwhelmingly calling for a resolution supporting a permanent ceasefire in Gaza. Speakers included students, physicians, community leaders, and representatives from the Muslim community of Folsom and CAIR. They cited statistics: over 20,000 Palestinians killed (including 7,000+ children), 1.7 million displaced, and a dire humanitarian crisis. Many criticized the council's October 24 declaration for only condemning attacks on Israeli civilians and failing to mention Palestinian suffering. Several speakers also reported hate crimes and rising Islamophobia. - Chandra Vinakota and a neighbor from Lake View Oaks community reported a series of hate crimes against Indian American families, including vandalism on Diwali and a fire at a home, with racial slurs used. They asked the council to increase security and send a strong message against hate. - Jason Davis inquired about follow-up on the October 10 homeless discussion and urged the council to develop a homelessness management plan. - Nadeem Muhammad (22-year resident) expressed frustration at the council's perceived inaction and called for fairness and inclusivity. Discussion Items - Folsom Cordova Unified School District Presentation: Sean Martin, Assistant Superintendent, presented an update on the district reorganization feasibility study (jointly funded with Rancho Cordova and the district) and facilities in SFID3 (south of Highway 50). Key points: - The feasibility study for splitting the district is ongoing; a draft report is expected by end of 2023, with a joint meeting in January/February 2024. - SFID3 (Measure M, $750 million bond) has about $545 million unissued. Escalation has doubled construction costs since 2016; Folsom Ranch High School is now projected at $400 million in 2023 dollars. - The district is redesigning schools to reduce costs, including moving to single-story models and phased construction. - Tax rates in SFID3 are a concern due to the limited assessed value base; the board will discuss demographics, tax rates, and timelines at a December 12 study session. - Location of the new high school is not yet decided; options include Folsom Ranch, Rancho Cordova, or two smaller high schools. The board is seeking equitable distribution of Measure M funds. - Council members asked about enrollment trends, capacity at existing high schools, interdistrict transfers, and the possibility of a new SFID for Folsom. - Council Requests for Future Agenda Items: Councilmember Kozlowski requested authorization for new polling on a potential sales tax measure. Councilmember Orbaugh requested a follow-up discussion on homelessness (from October 10) and action steps on the strategic plan, unfunded liabilities, and community development department. Vice Mayor Challagulla proposed a future agenda item to bring together Jewish and Muslim communities for dialogue on humanitarian grounds. Mayor stated that the city manager is working on something, possibly by the December 12 meeting. - City Manager Reports: Announced Rebecca Neves as new city engineer; joint safety message on e-scooters; Folsom Holiday Lights contest; and a $1,900 donation to the library from the author Jeff Kinney event. Key Outcomes - The consent calendar was adopted unanimously. - No formal action was taken on the ceasefire resolution; council members noted that they cannot debate items not on the agenda but acknowledged the public comments. Mayor Rodriguez expressed appreciation for the community's engagement and stated that silence does not mean inaction, referencing ongoing work. - Councilmember Orbaugh reported on the National League of Cities conference and encouraged other council members to attend future sessions. - Councilmember Aquino announced he will attend COP28 in Dubai, paid for by the Air District and personally. - Councilmember Kozlowski expressed sympathy for the suffering in Gaza and noted the difficulty of addressing such issues within meeting rules. - The meeting was adjourned at 9:51 PM.

On Tuesday, November 14, 2023, the Folsom City Council met at City Hall (50 Natoma Street), beginning with a special meeting at 6:10 PM and a regular meeting at 6:30 PM. All five councilmembers were present: Mayor RosarioRodriguez, Vice Mayor YK Chalamcherla, and Councilmembers Sarah Aquino, Mike Kozlowski, and Anna Rohrbaugh. The special closed session focused on existing litigation; the annual meeting included public comment, a historic-district shuttle update, financial reports, several consent and. Many conclusions remained pending. In addition, the. The regular meeting was adjourned at 11:08 PM. Closed Session - The special, showcased with existing litigation. - Council issued closed and reconvened. Public Comments & Testimony - Homelessness and public safety. Bob Triplett, a City of Folsom employee and resident, told the story of a needle stick sustained in a crime at Livermore Park on October likely. 2023 Regarding a. the Prick He Starts and a. He stated that he was “compelling” city leaders to take action. - Israel — Palestine — the response voiced by dozens of public rising. Ad and reserved. Many argued that March 940 land. Among them: Dr. RallyH… the Ll. The Jewish residents, called Help. Only two famine speakers asked the council not into middle, largely. The crowd will hold it earlier. - Broad family: several speakers from Folsom Ranch and FCUSD. — Justin]Lon discussed Turning Jackson Hxh prime(18,800 homes) etc: Responsibility drew. forms|Formatted. Presentation: Historic District Shuttle Program - Jim Snook and Karen Holmes, representing the Historic Business District, are the Historic District Hardware.The shuttle program runs two vehicles (Friday and Saturday nights) to reduce parking congestion. Along with staff, their two-year program with world from April 202 because if they deployed, then in 2017 to three+r3. etc. - The app (Historic Folsom Shuttle) has recorded real usage data since December 2022. It shows 2,3Shuttle drivers. Costs average services 5,700 dollars outer month, insurance 12,000 more, app and, monthly. - Updates to extract into a. redesign. “Fresh zone”; 30. Key. plans.

The Folsom City Council met on Tuesday, October 24, 2023, at 6:30 PM in the City Council Chambers. The meeting included a proclamation for Hindu Heritage Month, a declaration reaffirming the city’s commitment to an inclusive safe environment, approval of most consent calendar items, a public hearing on a community facilities district amendment, and a lengthy discussion on a potential local sales tax measure. The council also approved a motion to have staff develop ballot language for both a 1% general and a 1% special sales tax, tabled a tree contract for further review, and heard extensive public testimony. Consent Calendar - Items 3 through 7 and 9 through 11 were approved unanimously. Item 8 (Resolution No. 11116 – Sacramento Tree Foundation contract for $645,000 over three years) was pulled by Vice Mayor Chalamcherla for discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Hindu Heritage Month Proclamation: Sangeeta Shankar (Hindu American Foundation) expressed gratitude and highlighted the Hindu community’s contributions, including 880+ pounds of food donated to Twin Lakes Food Bank and 3,000 meals provided annually by Annapurna Foundation. - Declaration on Inclusive Environment: Rabbi Grossman thanked the council and noted the personal impact of the Israel-Hamas conflict on the Jewish community, including a hostage situation affecting a family member. - Sales Tax Measure (Item 13): 17 speakers addressed the council. Many supported a sales tax measure, particularly a citizens’ special tax initiative. Key speakers and positions: - Dennis Haglin (25-year resident, transportation engineer) urged support for a local sales tax, noting that 40% of sales tax is paid by non-residents and that local funds can leverage federal grants. - Eli Smith (community engagement professional) supported a special tax to fund youth programs and public safety. - Andy Morin (former council member) encouraged a unanimous council endorsement, citing the success of past school bond measures that passed with over two-thirds support. - Jackie Seletti opposed a sales tax, arguing for budget prioritization of public safety first. - Mike Siletti questioned the city’s projected revenue growth, noting that two base years were COVID-impacted, and suggested cutting spending before raising taxes. - Bruce Klein (community leader) argued that current funding is inadequate for police, fire, parks, and trails, and supported a citizens’ special tax. - Dan Carson (Sacramento Area Firefighters Local 522) stated the fire department has been without an engine at Station 35 and a training chief for 15 years, and urged support for a tax measure to fund those positions. - Sally Calligan and Max Hofstadt (Friends of the Folsom Parkway) highlighted deteriorating trails and safety issues, urging a sales tax for maintenance. - Rochelle Barcelona (Friends of the Folsom Zoo Sanctuary) noted the zoo needs $1 million in donations over the past decade, but maintenance and compliance needs exceed resources. - Dean Williams (Folsom Athletic Association) and Ian Frazier (Folsom Lake Surf) described aging sports fields and parks, supporting a sales tax to maintain facilities. - Several other speakers from youth sports organizations (Ryan Kahn, Jason Anderson) also supported the tax. - Robert Goss (community leader) presented a citizens’ initiative for a special sales tax, listing six priority areas: fire/EMS, police, transportation, parks/trails, community enhancement, and capital projects. - Sam Spiegel (retired police chief) emphasized police staffing is down from 93 authorized positions to 81-83, while population and calls for service have increased. Discussion Items - Item 8 – Sacramento Tree Foundation Contract: Vice Mayor Chalamcherla expressed concerns about spending $645,000 over three years, suggesting that the city could use a volunteer coordinator and in-house efforts to achieve similar results at lower cost. After debate, the council voted unanimously to table the item and bring it back with a revised scope that includes a volunteer coordinator role. - Item 12 – Community Facilities District No. 23 (Folsom Ranch) Improvement Area No. 6: Stacey Tamani (CFO) presented the amendment to remove the maximum facility special tax rate for certain land uses. The public hearing was opened and closed with no speakers. Ballots from the special election showed 29 votes in support, 0 opposed (100% approval). The council unanimously approved the resolutions and introduced Ordinance No. 1339. - Item 13 – Potential Sales Tax Measure: City Manager Elaine Andersen gave a detailed presentation on the city’s structural deficit, projected to reach $4.6 million by FY 2028-29. She explained that a 1% local sales tax could generate approximately $29 million annually, with 40% paid by non-residents. She outlined options for a general tax (50%+1 vote) or a special tax (two-thirds vote), and noted that a citizens’ initiative special tax would require only a simple majority. Councilmembers discussed the merits of each approach. Councilmember Kozlowski moved to have staff bring back ballot language for both a 1% general tax and a 1% special tax by January, including a citizens advisory committee structure. The motion passed 3-2 (Kozlowski, Aquino, Rodriguez in favor; Rohrbough, Chalamcherla opposed). Key Outcomes - Sales Tax Measure: Staff will return by January 2024 with proposed ballot language for a 1% general sales tax and a 1% special sales tax, both including a citizens advisory committee. - Tree Contract (Item 8): The resolution was tabled; staff will revise the scope to incorporate a volunteer coordinator and bring it back for future council consideration. - CFD No. 23 Amendment (Item 12): Resolutions and ordinance approved unanimously. The special tax levy was introduced. - Council Requests: A future agenda item on homelessness action planning was requested and will be scheduled for November. - City Manager Reports: Recognitions for retiring staff (Steve Cron, City Engineer; Lydia Kanopka, Deputy City Clerk). Announcements for upcoming events: Public Safety Trunk or Treat (Oct 28), Drug Take Back Day (Oct 28), and completion of the Traders Lane parking lot project. - Council Comments: Councilmember Aquino noted a proposed rate increase for Regional Sanitation (Prop 218 process) and requested adjournment in memory of teacher Michelle McDonald.

The Folsom City Council met on Tuesday, October 10, 2023, at 6:30 PM in the City Council Chambers. The meeting included scheduled presentations, a consent calendar, new business on surplus land, a public hearing on an appeal of a Historic District Commission decision, and a lengthy informational presentation on homelessness. The meeting ran past 11:00 PM, and the council voted to waive the 10:30 PM rule to complete the agenda. Consent Calendar - Approval of September 26, 2023 Regular Meeting Minutes (Item 4) – Approved unanimously. - Resolution No. 11107 – Opioid Settlement Funding (Item 5) – Pulled by Councilmember Aquino for discussion. The resolution authorizes the Finance Director to use opioid settlement funds for a limited-term Community Service Officer, wellness programs, anti-opioid campaigns, and overdose detection. Approved unanimously. - Resolution No. 11108 – Copier Contract Renewal (Item 6) – Approved unanimously. - Resolution No. 11109 – Cybersecurity Services (Item 7) – Approved unanimously. - Resolution No. 11110 – Annual Inflationary Adjustment for City User Fees (Item 8) – Approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Business from the Floor (Non-Agenda Items): - Robert Dresser requested transparency on the cost of defending the by-district lawsuit and asked the city to consider settling. He also asked whether the city would return to at-large elections if it prevailed. - Muriel Bronstein (Neighborhood Elections Now) asked when the city would pay the attorney fees for the by-district lawsuit and requested the total amount spent. - Vivek Gunaskara (Celebrate India Executive Committee) invited the council to the annual Diwali Mela on October 28, 2023, from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Grounds Event Center in Roseville. - Ian Cornell expressed support for the Jewish community in Folsom following the terror attacks on Israel, thanking the council for keeping the city safe. - Public Comments on Homelessness Presentation: 29 speakers addressed the council. Several residents from the Historic District and Sutter Street area described increasing criminal activity, including theft, vandalism, public defecation, and aggressive behavior. Many called for more police officers and stricter enforcement of laws against illegal conduct. Others expressed support for nonprofits like Powerhouse Ministries, Jake’s Journey Home, and Heart of Folsom, and urged a balanced approach. Doug Skalsey, a reserve police officer and property manager at Bidwell Studios, gave extended remarks criticizing the “housing first” model and calling for 30 additional officers, a dedicated navigator, and a city attorney position for handling repeat offenders. He also advocated for a TOT tax on Airbnb to fund police. - Public Comments on Appeal (Item 10): - Adina Blair opposed the 603 Sutter Street project, citing inaccurate renderings, concerns about vibration damage to the adjacent library building, and lack of parking for the residential units. - Loretta Hedinger argued that the project violates the city’s historic district standards, that the Page & Turnbull report found the project “compatible” but not “consistent” with the code, and that staff had stretched regulations. She also noted that the city’s code enforcement and tree preservation ordinances were not being properly applied. Discussion Items - Informational Presentation on Homelessness: The presentation covered legal constraints (Boise decision), police department data, code enforcement cleanups, and county and nonprofit services. Key statistics: 30,228 total calls for service in 2023 (through September 15), of which 2,100 involved homeless individuals; Folsom’s point-in-time count showed 20 homeless, but police estimate 50–75; countywide, homelessness increased 67% from 2019 to 9,278 individuals; code enforcement cleaned 40 locations in three months, with daily costs of $800–$1,000. The county is building “Safe Stay Communities” with non-congregate shelter. Nonprofits presented their programs: Jake’s Journey Home (all-volunteer mobile response, 212 field interactions in September), Heart of Folsom (winter shelter with 20 beds, transitional housing), Powerhouse Ministries (59 beds, 91% success rate for women and children), and Hope Cooperative (Bidwell Studios with 20 permanent supportive housing units). The council discussed the legal ability to cite individuals for camping when shelter beds are available, and the need for more police officers, with Chief Hillman citing staffing shortfalls. - New Business Item 9 – Surplus Land Declaration: The council considered declaring four small parcels (APN 070-0092-007, -009, -010, and 070-0094-011) as exempt surplus land and authorizing their disposition. Staff explained the parcels were acquired for a capital project that is no longer needed (retaining wall for excursion rail). The parcels range from 500 to 5,500 square feet and are being returned to original owners. Councilmember Aquino expressed concern about the loss of potential for excursion rail from the Y to the historic district, but staff noted previous council decisions made that economically infeasible. The adopted resolution declares the parcels exempt surplus, with transfer subject to state verification. - Public Hearing Item 10 – Appeal of 603 Sutter Street Mixed-Use Development: The appellant, Bob Delp, raised 14 objections, including that the Historic District Commission lacks final approval authority under the city charter, that project renderings were inaccurate, that the building height exceeds the 35-foot limit (parapet wall), that grading would cause vibration damage to the adjacent library building, and that the project does not qualify for a CEQA exemption. Staff recommended denial of the appeal. The applicant, Ziyad Aliwan, stated he would move his office to the second floor and live on the third floor, and that no variances were needed. Council discussed the parapet issue: under current code, architectural features (including parapets) can extend up to 15 feet above the 35-foot limit, a practice the city has followed for 20 years. The council voted to deny the appeal and approve the project as approved by the HDC, with a friendly amendment to condition 43 requiring the ADA parking space to be designed to the satisfaction of the Public Works Department. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved items 4, 6, 7, 8 (unanimous). Item 5 approved unanimously after discussion. - Resolution No. 11111 – Surplus Land Declaration: Approved unanimously (4-0-1? All five yes). - Appeal of 603 Sutter Street: Denied. The council upheld the Historic District Commission’s approval, with a condition to modify the ADA parking space. Vote: 5-0. - Homelessness Informational Session: No action taken, but the council directed the city manager to explore a county health outpost at the Y property (per Councilmember Aquino) and to bring back proposals for increasing police staffing and a possible sales tax measure (discussed in relation to the next meeting). - Council Requests: Future agenda items will include a discussion on establishing a formal citizen recognition program and clarification on standing requirements for appeals. - City Manager Reports: Upcoming events: Bike/pedestrian bridge workshop (Oct 19, 5–7 PM), Fire Department open house (Oct 14, 9–11 AM), and bike park renovations. The council extended thoughts and prayers for the people of Israel.

The Folsom City Council held a regular meeting on Tuesday, September 26, 2023, at 6:30 PM in the City Council Chambers, 50 Natoma Street. The meeting included a joint session with the Redevelopment Successor Agency, Public Financing Authority, Folsom Ranch Financing Authority, and South of 50 Parking Authority. All council members were present: Mayor Rosario Rodriguez, Vice Mayor YK Chalamcherla, Councilmembers Sarah Aquino, Mike Kozlowski, and Anna Rohrbough. The meeting featured two scheduled presentations, unanimous approval of consent calendars, and council requests for future agenda items. Scheduled Presentations - Folsom Tourism and Economic Development Corporation (TEDCorp) Quarterly Report: Joe Galliotti and team presented findings from the 15th annual study mission to Austin, Texas, attended by the mayor and councilmember Kozlowski, along with regional partners. Highlights included Austin's branding strategies ("Keep Austin Weird"), public-private partnerships, waterfront development, sports and entertainment facilities (e.g., HEB Center, Crossover Athletic Facility), and the Community First Village homelessness solution (100% privately funded, 1,200 homes). Councilmembers expressed enthusiasm for applying lessons learned to Folsom, particularly regarding the central business district, river district, and rodeo grounds. Vice Mayor Chalamcherla requested that the upcoming economic development consultant incorporate these ideas into their final report. - Folsom Plan Area Semi-Annual Report: Community Development Director Pam Johns and City Engineer Steve Cron provided an update on development activity within the Folsom Ranch specific plan. Key data: 55 new single-family home permits issued in September; 3 new applications (freeway-oriented signs, parcel 61 subdivision, Alder Creek Marketplace—the first grocery store in the area); 6 entitlements approved by the planning commission; over 3,200 single-family permits and 400 multifamily units approved to date. Aerial photos showed progress on Mangini Ranch, Alder Creek Elementary School, fire station, and other infrastructure. Councilmembers thanked Steve Cron for his years of service, noting this was his final semi-annual report before retirement. Consent Calendar - City Council Consent Calendar (Items 3-8): Approved unanimously by roll call vote (5-0). Items included: approval of meeting minutes, a professional services agreement with Habitat for Humanity for the SACOG Green Means Go grant, an amendment to landscape maintenance agreements, a construction agreement for pavement striping, and acceptance of a $110,000 Selective Traffic Enforcement Program grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety. - Joint Meeting Consent Calendar (Items 9-10): Approved unanimously by roll call vote (5-0). Items included: approval of May 23, 2023 joint meeting minutes and receipt of monthly investment reports for June 2023. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during Business from the Floor. Discussion Items (Council Requests for Future Agenda Items) - Courtyard Relocation: Councilmember Kozlowski requested an informational item on the timeline and costs for relocating the city's corporate yard (courtyard). Staff agreed to bring back a report, including a broad cost estimate, and noted that the discussion could be bundled with relocation of operations off the Y property. Councilmember Rohrbough suggested postponing until the river district committee meets, but Kozlowski emphasized the need to start planning, especially given upcoming electrical upgrades for electric vehicles. Staff also agreed to explore federal and state grants for moving facilities away from the Lake Natoma area. - Public-Private Partnership Framework: Vice Mayor Chalamcherla requested a presentation on the city's existing public-private partnership policies, past examples, and future opportunities (e.g., park sponsorships, naming rights). Councilmember Aquino noted that such partnerships are already widespread and asked for narrowing the scope. The mayor agreed to work with the vice mayor and city manager offline to refine the request. - Procurement Contingency Spending: Vice Mayor Chalamcherla requested a workshop on how the 10% contingency on city contracts is tracked and spent, noting that cumulative contingencies could exceed $10 million. Councilmember Rohrbough expressed familiarity with the process and did not need a workshop, but the vice mayor said the education would benefit him and the public. Staff offered to provide information. City Manager Reports & Council Comments - City Manager Reports: Elaine Andersen (City Manager) announced a new pilot program for reporting abandoned shopping carts (text/call 800-913-5639, removal within 48 hours), a reminder about e-bike and e-scooter regulations, and updates on the Traders Lane parking lot improvement project and the Folsom Public Library's free test preparation software. The Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary celebrated its 60th anniversary. - Council Comments: - Councilmember Aquino highlighted an upcoming Air Quality Management District workshop on hydrogen technology. - Councilmember Rohrbough reported on Community Service Day (volunteering at Powerhouse Ministries), upcoming discussions on homelessness (October 10) and a sales tax measure (October 24), and the Mayor's Cup golf tournament (her team took second in co-ed division). - Councilmember Kozlowski thanked sponsors of the Mayor's Cup (fundraiser for the Cave after-school program) and noted a presentation at SAC Regional Transit on fare-free transit. - Vice Mayor Chalamcherla discussed a SAC Regional Transit app for real-time bus tracking, consolidation of transit apps, cable commission news (mobile recording unit), and paid tribute to volunteer Marilyn who recently passed away. - Mayor Rodriguez announced the Soapbox Derby on October 7 in the Historic District. Key Outcomes - Consent calendars for both the regular meeting and joint meeting were approved unanimously. - Council directed staff to prepare an informational report on courtyard relocation, including timeline, cost estimates, and potential grant opportunities. - Council agreed to further discuss the public-private partnership framework offline, with the mayor and city manager collaborating with the vice mayor. - Staff will provide information on procurement contingency spending to the vice mayor. - The meeting was adjourned at 7:46 PM.

The Folsom City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, September 12, 2023, beginning at approximately 6:45 PM (after a special meeting) and adjourning at 8:31 PM. The meeting included proclamations, a public comment on fiscal concerns, a presentation on the 10th Annual Community Service Day, updates on landmark tree designations, approval of a community facilities district amendment, selection of council members for an economic development consultant review committee, and discussion of future agenda items including a potential sales tax measure. Consent Calendar - The council approved the consent calendar (items 6 through 10) by a unanimous 5-0 vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Bruce Klein, a 32-year resident and vice president of Friends of Folsom Parkway, spoke during business from the floor. He expressed concern about the city's fiscal situation, noting a projected deficit over the coming years. He urged the council to discuss revenue options, including a possible sales tax measure, and to avoid relying solely on service cuts or economic development. He also commented later on the landmark tree item, supporting the protection of the Oak Parkway Trail corridor. Discussion Items - Proclamations: The council adopted three proclamations: (1) September 17–23, 2023 as Constitution Week, presented to a representative of the Daughters of the American Revolution; (2) September 2023 as Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, presented by Councilmember Richard Montgomery in memory of his father; (3) September 2023 as International Underground Railroad Month, presented to the Harris family and author Don Silva (The Funk Queen). - Resolution of Commendation: The council honored Snooks Chocolate Factory on its 60th anniversary. The Snook family (four generations) accepted the commendation and shared details of a Friday fundraiser for the Peter Lewis Green Room. - 10th Annual Folsom Community Service Day: Tom Hellman (Parks and Recreation) and Justin Rethel (steering committee chair) presented the event, scheduled for Saturday, September 16, 2023. They reported over 2,000 volunteers signed up (93% of spots filled), 100+ projects, and a goal of 500,000 pounds of food collected. Sponsorships totaled $114,000, the largest ever. - Landmark Tree Update: Urban Forester Amy Nunez presented two candidates for landmark tree designation: - Prison Grove (Folsom State Prison): 250 acres of oak woodland (primarily blue oak and interior live oak), meeting criteria for historical value, habitat value, and superior beauty. The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) was supportive. - Oak Parkway Trail Corridor: A 1.5-mile city-owned segment with scattered oaks, including two rare oracle oaks. Staff recommended further analysis due to ongoing interactions with PGE (utility company) for vegetation management. Council discussed protections for trees against PGE's proposed removal of 17 oak trees. After debate, council directed staff to move forward with both sites, including amending the city code to define a "grove" designation so that all trees within a geographic area receive default landmark status until individual evaluations are completed. The matter will return with a proposed code amendment and actions on October 24, 2023. - Community Facilities District Amendment: Stacy presented Resolution 11102 to amend the rate and method of apportionment for Improvement Area 6 within CFD 23 (Folsom Ranch). The amendment removes the maximum facility special tax for the remaining multifamily medium-density land use, leaving only service special taxes. The council approved the resolution unanimously. - Selection of Council Members for Economic Development Consultant Review Committee: Staff requested two council members to serve on the committee evaluating proposals for an economic development consultant (RFP due September 15). The council agreed to have two members and selected Mayor Rodriguez and Councilmember Warbaugh (by consensus). - Council Requests for Future Agenda Items: Councilmember Kozlowski requested a discussion on a potential sales tax measure (general or special) to address the city's fiscal deficit. Other council members supported a broader discussion of revenue options, procurement, grants, and service cuts. The council agreed to bring back an item on consideration of a sales tax measure, including comparisons to other jurisdictions, community feedback, and next steps. Councilmember Kozlowski also requested a future discussion on the Y property (including public works storage, the superintendent's house, and potential county health services). The city manager will schedule these items. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved unanimously (5-0). - Landmark Tree Designations: Council directed staff to initiate the 30-day noticing period for the prison grove and to bring back a code amendment to define "grove" for the Oak Parkway Trail corridor, with actions expected at the October 24, 2023 meeting. Staff will also work with Friends of Folsom Parkway on mapping. - CFD Amendment: Resolution 11102 approved unanimously (5-0). - Economic Development Consultant Committee: Mayor Rodriguez and Councilmember Warbaugh selected to serve on the review committee. - Future Agenda Items: Staff will prepare an item on a potential sales tax measure (discussion of options, data, and next steps) and a separate item on the Y property, to be scheduled in the coming months.