Public Meetings - Fresno, California

The meeting began at 5:31 PM with roll call and unanimous approval of the agenda and consent calendar (May 13, 2026 meeting minutes). Two project reviews were conducted, each approved without public comment. The meeting concluded at 6:01 PM with updates on committee membership changes. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved the May 13, 2026 meeting minutes. Discussion Items - Project Review – Continued Matter (P2601332) – Maliny Poe and Harbor Associates: John Bonadelli (Bonadelli Neighborhood) presented a proposed market-rate detached single-family housing project (Track 6568) on an underutilized office-zoned parcel, enabled by a 2025 city code amendment for residential-to-office conversions. The project features 12 units per acre (two-story homes, 1,200–1,800 sq ft), private streets, HOA maintenance, a community pool, dog park, and designated parking. The applicant emphasized it targets first-time homebuyers and is a less intense use than allowed (up to RM3 zoning and 45-foot height; proposed buildings are 25 feet). Committee members inquired about PUD status, HOA enforcement, CC&Rs, and parking. No public comments. Approved unanimously (motion by Kevin, second by Robert; all ayes). - Project Review – New Matter (P25 back 01776) – Robert Berlin Fort: Jim Shahadi (for applicant Melport) presented a four-acre commercially zoned lot at Copper Willow. The plan includes a 6,000 sq ft convenience store with six MPD gas dispensers and a tunnel car wash, a 3,000 sq ft drive-through QSR (fast food) parcel, and a 7,000 sq ft multi-tenant office/retail building. The project was coordinated with the adjacent home builder for wall placement and emergency access. Committee members discussed access (southbound-only entry on Willow), fuel truck routing, a six-foot wall with landscaping between commercial and residential uses, noise from the car wash, and lighting. The committee stipulated that the car wash must cease operations by 9:00 PM per code when adjacent to residential. No public comments. Approved unanimously (motion by Robert, second by Kevin; all ayes). Key Outcomes - Both project approvals were unanimous (all members present: Dene, Janet, Lois, Denise, Robert, Anna, Geraldine, Kevin). - Next regular meeting scheduled for August 12, 2026 at 5:30 PM. - Committee member Robert announced his departure (moving part-time), and another member also indicated this would be their last meeting. One new member is undergoing onboarding; the committee will coordinate with the council district office to fill vacancies.

Note: The minutes and transcript indicate the meeting occurred on July 1, 2026, but the instructions for this summary specify using July 2, 2026. The meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by Vice Chair Kathy Bray, with Commissioners Jacqueline Lyday, Linda Calandra, and Gurdeep Singh Shergill present. Chair Peter Vang and Commissioner Monica Diaz were absent. The agenda was amended to move Item VIII-A (Resolution of Appreciation) before Item VII-C. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the January 7, January 21, May 6, May 20, and June 3, 2026 regular meetings. No public comment was received. Reports by Commissioners - Commissioner Shergill extended Fourth of July greetings, thanked Mayor Dyer for a recent ribbon cutting of two affordable housing developments in West Fresno, noted future affordable housing efforts, and encouraged continued collaboration among City leadership and the community. Discussion Items - Election of Chair and Vice Chair (Item VII-C): Commissioner Calandra nominated Vice Chair Bray for Chair; seconded by Commissioner Lyday. The motion passed unanimously. Chair Bray then nominated Commissioner Lyday for Vice Chair; seconded by Commissioner Calandra. The motion passed unanimously. - Rezone Application P26-00729 (Item VII-D): Staff planner Valeria Ramirez presented a proposal to remove conditions of zoning on a 3.3-acre vacant parcel at the south side of East Barstow Avenue between North Blackstone Avenue and North Fresno Street. The conditions were originally applied to the adjacent Parcel B (the Avery Apartments development) and were never intended for Parcel A. Removing them would allow future development of Parcel A. The City of Fresno is the applicant. No public comment was heard. The Commission approved the staff recommendation to adopt the statutory exemption and approve the rezone. - Continued Matters (Items VII-A and VII-B): Both items were continued to the July 15, 2026 meeting without further discussion. Resolution of Appreciation for Peter Vang and David Criner (Item VIII-A) - Planning Director Jennifer Clark presented a resolution honoring former Commissioner David Criner, who served from March 19, 2020 to July 1, 2026, appointed by Mayor Lee Brand and continued under Mayor Jerry Dyer. Criner offered remarks of gratitude. Commissioners expressed appreciation for his service, leadership, and friendship. Chair Peter Vang was also honored but was absent. Key Outcomes - Agenda approved as amended. - Consent calendar approved. - Kathy Bray elected Chair, Jacqueline Lyday elected Vice Chair. - Rezone Application P26-00729 approved (recommendation to City Council). - Resolution of Appreciation adopted for David Criner and Peter Vang. - Items VII-A and VII-B continued to July 15, 2026. - Meeting adjourned at 6:25 p.m.

On July 1, 2026, the Fresno Tower District committee met to handle routine approvals and focus on implementation of the Tower District Specific Plan. Chair Johnson presided; Vice Chair Booker and Commissioners Burton and Katan were present, while Commissioners Conley and Kitch were absent. No development-project reviews were held. The main discussion centered on the Tower District Vacant Building Pilot Program, which expires in December 2026, along with code enforcement, urban forestry, and outreach to city departments. Consent Calendar / Routine Approvals - The agenda was approved unanimously by motion and second, with no objections. - The May 21, 2026 meeting minutes were approved unanimously. A clarification was added that the Watermelon Express recommendation under item B was to move the dispensing machine back from the street toward the store at Storage Town Market, near the existing water dispenser. Public Comments & Testimony - Steve Wolburn (transcribed in the source as Wilbur), a Tower District resident, expressed support for the original intent of the Tower District Vacant Building Pilot Program but said the program is not working. He described his proposal for a nonprofit commercial commissary kitchen and worker-owned food cooperative at 861 Fern Avenue near Maroa, saying he signed a letter of intent in November, obtained 501(c)(3) status, and worked unpaid to monitor the property while it continued to deteriorate. He said the pilot program was sponsored by Councilmembers Arias and Perea and argued that Section 2.2's nuisance-certification exception lets owners avoid the 120-day rehabilitation requirement: if the city attorney certifies a building is not a nuisance under Fresno Municipal Code Section 10-618, owners can stay in compliance by keeping weeds trimmed and entrances boarded. His public records request produced 150 pages; according to his account, none of the nine registered properties has been rehabilitated, and the only assessed fine was $1,000 in January for weeds and trash, not vacancy. He also noted the ordinance requires registration at a cost of $272. He recommended deleting the fourth bullet, the nuisance-certification exception, and requiring rehabilitation, a rehabilitation permit, or a completed process. He reported that the building lost power, water, and gas, had been boarded up, and that Strummer's operator Jason Pesteresi had used one unit as a green room until a break-in. Discussion Items - City College infill study: A commissioner reported serving as a design-review juror for a City College class that modeled infill on a corner lot near the locks. The student concepts varied from basic to impressive and often did not follow the Tower District design guidelines; the instructor may bring students to a future meeting to share the work. - Neighborhood safety and enforcement: A commissioner described confronting a tagger in broad daylight and being threatened with a bat; police were still looking for the suspect despite clear video and a Facebook identification. The committee also discussed coordinating with the Police Department and county on homelessness, graffiti, and vacant-property issues. - Implementation matrix and priorities: Members reviewed an ad hoc list tied to the Specific Plan implementation matrix, noted the matrix has a 25-year shelf life, and agreed to identify one or two near-term priorities. They added a long-standing proposal for strategic industry markers and design features. The vacant building pilot program was treated as the top priority because of its December 2026 expiration. Members discussed the need to understand code enforcement capacity, complaint-based processes, and the potential for daytime workshops with the City Attorney and Code Enforcement. A commissioner who serves as district liaison said he would begin outreach the next morning. - Urban forest and other priorities: Commissioners highlighted the urban forest as a major asset, including the arborist in Public Works, an existing but unseen urban forest study, free-tree programs through Tree Fresno, and a positive Caltrans response on freeway planting. A commissioner said fire-department volunteers reported roughly three or four freeway embankment fire calls a day. Members also discussed ADU standard plans, vacant houses, bike lanes, alley activations, and the vacant Historic Preservation Officer position, which affects Mills Act and preservation work. - Commissary kitchen proposal (item 8, schedule communications): Steve Wolburn shared details of the proposed project: two full certified commercial kitchens for food entrepreneurs, public-facing showcases and classes, and a possible worker-owned cooperative in the former Cafe Midi space. He said it would not be a food-truck commissary and noted TDBA is exploring moving the farmers market to Fern. Committee members reacted positively and encouraged coordination with TDBA. Key Outcomes - The agenda and May 21, 2026 minutes were approved unanimously. - The vacant building pilot program became the committee's top immediate priority. The district liaison will contact the Code Enforcement and City Attorney's offices to arrange a workshop, obtain status information on the nine properties, and explore whether the ordinance should be amended before the program expires. - Members agreed to develop a formal priority list from the implementation matrix and to discuss possible subcommittees or daytime meetings at a future meeting. - Urban forestry follow-up was supported: engage the Public Works arborist and Tree Fresno, and continue pursuing Caltrans planting contacts. - No formal votes were taken on substantive priorities; direction was by consensus. - The next meeting is scheduled for July 16, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. at the same location.

On June 25, 2026, the Fresno City Council met at City Hall with all seven members present and a quorum. The council approved the agenda, presented five proclamations, heard public comment, approved two major water and land-use items, and worked through a lengthy contested-consent calendar. The council resumed after lunch and adjourned from closed session at 3:33 p.m. Consent Calendar - The agenda was approved by a motion from Councilmember Arias, seconded by Councilmember Richardson. The clerk announced that the final budget vote had already been executed at the June 23, 2026 budget hearing, and that item 2J, an office lease at 1360 L Street, was moved to the July 30, 2026 meeting. - Several items were moved to contested consent by Councilmembers Arias, Richardson, and Vang. The balance of the consent calendar was approved, with Councilmember Richardson registering a no vote on item 2L. Ceremonial Presentations - Pet of the Month: Pika Pika, a 4-month-old black terrier mix, was presented for adoption from the Fresno Animal Center. About 250 animals are currently in foster care, and her adoption fee is waived. - McCaffrey Homes 50th Anniversary: The company was recognized for 10,000 homes built, 115 new neighborhoods, 25 miles of trails, and more than $500,000 in community contributions. Robert and Karen McCaffrey also celebrated 50 years of marriage, and the council proclaimed the anniversary. - Kings Canyon Middle School Boys Volleyball Day: The team won the school's first Division One boys volleyball championship after entering the playoffs as the number four seed. June 25, 2026 was proclaimed Kings Canyon Middle School Boys Volleyball Day. - Youth Climate and Economic Bill of Rights Day: Youth Leadership Institute surveyed more than 2,300 young people in Fresno and will unveil the youth climate and economic bill of rights at Fresno City College on June 30, 2026. June 25, 2026 was proclaimed for the occasion. - Dirksen Niakumua Day: Mr. Niakumua, born June 15, 1959, served as a strategic aide from 1983 to 1988 guiding hundreds of Hmong families during the silent suffering and survival era of 1975 to 1988. He resettled in Fresno in 1989, and June 25, 2026 was proclaimed Dirksen Niakumua Day. Public Comments & Testimony - Brunette, identifying herself with the Heat Group, objected to any city funding going out, including funding related to the airport and abatement, high-speed rail, homeless programs, and District 3 projects. She said combining HUD and neighborhood stabilization program funds with other funds was illegal, asserted that residents were not notified, and said the group would take concerns to Washington, D.C. if necessary. - No public speakers testified on the 9:15 a.m. urban water management plan item or the 9:20 a.m. text amendment item. - One audience member attempted to address the council outside the designated public comment period and was ruled out of order and warned. Under unscheduled communication, a card for Rory Ecker about feral cats was on file, but that individual was not present when called. Council and Administrative Reports - Councilmember Perea requested a schedule for downtown parking enforcement on non-event days and clarified that an event at Les Kimber Park had occurred on an adjacent privately owned parcel, not inside the portion of the park under construction. - Councilmember Carbasi praised the adopted city budget of more than $2.5 billion and the rapid response to an overnight water main break. - Councilmember Richardson announced a District 6 town hall, America Fest on June 30, a free veteran vision and dental clinic on June 27 and 28, Police Academy Class 180, and fire-safety reminders. - Councilmember Vang welcomed a new family-owned pizzeria to Southeast Fresno and urged residents to celebrate the Fourth of July safely. - Vice President Maxwell announced that Community Health Systems and Blue Shield reached an agreement restoring network coverage retroactive to February 1, and highlighted Juneteenth and youth leadership events. - The city manager noted that hundreds of pounds of illegal fireworks had been seized, reminded residents of the social host ordinance, and said Health and Welfare Trust guidance would be issued about retroactive claims. Discussion Items - Urban Water Management Plan and Water Shortage Contingency Plan (9:15 a.m.): Staff presented the state-required five-year plan. In a normal year, the city has access to about 302,000 to 308,000 acre-feet of water per year, while potable demand is roughly half of that total. Projected demand grows to between 150,000 and 200,000 acre-feet per year by 2050. Water sources include groundwater wells, Friant-Kern surface water, Fresno Irrigation District Kings River water, and recycled water. Councilmembers asked about population assumptions, the 1970s-era recycled-water exchange agreement with Fresno Irrigation District, purple-pipe expansion, conservation enforcement, and the Southeast Growth Area. Staff said a reuse master plan and a conservation ordinance would come back to council. Public comment was opened and closed with no speakers, and the two plans were approved. - Housing Element Text Amendment P2601326 (9:20 a.m.): The amendment implements state law requiring ministerial approval for developments that provide at least 20 percent of units affordable to lower-income households on qualifying housing-element sites. Councilmember Perea supported it as a way to act on affordability. Councilmember Carbasi objected in principle to state limits on local discretion and public input. Staff warned that noncompliance could affect housing-element certification, state grant eligibility, and the city's pro-housing designation. It passed 6 to 1. - City Hall Cafe Lease (Item 2I): The council approved a lease with Culinary Studios for the City Hall Cafe. The proposal includes no rent for the first three years, city payment of PG&E because the building is on a single meter, and about $600,000 in city-funded tenant improvements, including roughly $400,000 in construction and $100,000 in equipment. Staff said the cafe is an investment in more than 550 City Hall employees. Councilmember Arias questioned why the same generous terms were not offered to established downtown restaurants but voted yes, saying he would use the lease as a standard for public-facility leases. It passed 7 to 0. - HOME-ARP Homeless Prevention Services (Item 2N): Federal HUD HOME-ARP funding would support homelessness prevention services through agreements with Westcare and Pavarello House, including rental assistance, security deposit assistance, first and last month rent support, and supportive services. The item passed 5 to 0. Remaining Contested Consent Items - Item 2C - Pun Group LLP auditing services: Approved 6 to 0. Staff said the separately funded $50,000 audit of the Grizzly Stadium operator would be brought back later, with an RFP intended within 45 days after July 1. - Item 2E - Sculpture Conservation Studio: Approved 7 to 0. Councilmember Arias asked for a memo on whether any public sculptures are designed for interactive climbing, sitting, or similar use. - Item 2G - Airports Department landscape maintenance contract: Approved 6 to 0. Staff said Brightview was the lowest bid and has local offices. - Item 2M - Sports field reservation fees and master fee schedule: Approved 6 to 1, with Councilmember Arias voting no. Fees were set to mirror the Regional Sports Complex, and the city will honor existing paid agreements. Councilmember Arias objected to charging gate fees for parents watching children play at a city park. The City Attorney will provide a memo on whether admission fees can be charged for parks funded by Measure P. - Item 2V - Measure C New Technology Reserve grant applications: Approved 7 to 0. The projects at Friant/41 and Shaw/168 would test new technology to allow Caltrans traffic signals and city traffic signals to communicate. - Item 2W - SB1 road maintenance project list: Approved 7 to 0. The city must adopt the list by the end of June to receive $18.5 million in SB1 gas tax revenue. District 5 received a $1.7 million allocation, which Councilmember Vang said was the lowest of the seven districts, and he asked for more future input on project selection. Closed Session - The council entered closed session on four items: conference with labor negotiators for all units listed on the agenda; existing litigation in Terrence Frazier v. City of Fresno; existing litigation in City of Fresno v. Central Valley Community Sports Foundation; and one anticipated litigation matter. The council adjourned from closed session at 3:33 p.m. Key Outcomes - Agenda approved and consent calendar approved, with Councilmember Richardson voting no on item 2L. - Urban Water Management Plan and Water Shortage Contingency Plan approved. - Housing Element Text Amendment P2601326 approved 6 to 1. - City Hall Cafe lease approved 7 to 0. - HOME-ARP homeless prevention services approved 5 to 0. - Pun Group audit amendment, Sculpture Conservation Studio amendment, airports landscape contract, Measure C grant applications, and SB1 road list all approved. - Sports-field fee and master fee schedule item approved 6 to 1, with Councilmember Arias dissenting over gate-fee concerns. - Directives included returning with a Grizzly Stadium audit RFP, a public sculpture memo, a Measure P admission-fee memo, a water reuse master plan, a briefing on the Fresno Irrigation District exchange agreement, a conservation ordinance, and future engagement on SB1 project selection.

The meeting convened at 5:31 PM with Chair Albert Sanchez, Vice Chair Debbie Garden, and Committee Member Ashley Morales Guerrero (Member Q sponsor absent). The committee reviewed three agenda items and received administrative updates. Consent Calendar - Approved the agenda and minutes with no changes. Discussion Items Item 4A: Conditional Use Permit and Variance for Solar Canopy at 2831 Mariposa Street - Dylan Demers of Barrier Solar presented a proposal to install a 74’6” x 120’8” solar structure (16’ tall) on a dirt lot to generate 178.56 kW for two adjacent properties at 2811 and 2820 Mariposa Street. Variances needed for setbacks due to maximizing space. The committee asked about security, drainage, and future landscaping. Demers stated no drainage plan, but brick ballards around columns for beautification. The committee supported the renewable energy aspect but recommended a maintenance plan for the land underneath. No vote taken as the committee is advisory. Item 4B: Conditional Use Permit for New Church Event Center at 28 East Limit Avenue - Efrain Gaeta of Design Nest Architecture and Deacon Kirk Hings of Mount Pleasant Baptist Church presented plans for a 2,800 sq ft event center with a kitchen and assembly hall for 75-100 people. The project seeks a 50% parking reduction. Discussion covered fencing height (desired 6 ft on Limit Avenue due to security), landscaping, and public outreach. The committee recommended pushing the front fence back to the average setback line to allow a 6-foot height and urged formal public outreach to neighbors. Item: Text Amendment to Allow Temporary Parking Lots in Downtown Districts - Sal of Lance Cash and Company proposed amending the municipal code to allow temporary asphalt parking lots on vacant lots via a 5-year conditional use permit with up to two 1-year extensions, applicable to downtown districts. The applicant owns a dirt lot at Tularie and Van Ness and plans a 128-stall lot while awaiting financing for a future 10-story mixed-use building. Committee members expressed concerns about creating permanent-looking temporary lots, especially at a high-visibility intersection. They recommended a 7-year CUP with three 1-year extensions (total 10 years), tied to the parcel (non-transferable), with no further extensions. Additionally, they suggested requiring lighting, progress reports for extensions, and incorporating greenery (e.g., pots) to mitigate heat island effect. The applicant was open to these recommendations. Administrative Updates - Staff reported City Council approved a $2.5 billion budget, including $500,000 for a new park in the Adams Elementary neighborhood, $500,000 for downtown litter abatement and pressure washing, and funds for tower district improvements, eviction protection, and street cleaning. - Committee discussed maintenance of Kearney Boulevard medians (overgrown oleanders), parking meters for business owners, vacant residential properties, truck parking in residential zones, and a loud noise device at Wells Fargo on Fresno and Tularie Street. Follow-up on previous questions was requested. Key Outcomes - For Item 4A: Committee recommended approval with a suggestion to develop a maintenance plan for the land under the solar canopy. - For Item 4B: Committee recommended approval with conditions to adjust fencing to 6 feet by setting it back to the average setback line and to conduct neighborhood outreach. - For the text amendment: Committee recommended a 7-year CUP with three 1-year extensions (total 10 years), tied to the parcel, non-transferable, with no further extensions. Additional recommendations included requiring lighting, progress reports for extensions, and greenery. The recommendations will be forwarded to the planning department.

The Fresno City Council met on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at 9:00 AM in the Council Chambers to finalize and vote on the Fiscal Year 2027 budget. The meeting, which was the last scheduled budget hearing, followed weeks of hearings and negotiations. The council approved the final budget after adopting several amendments, resulting in a $2.56 billion spending plan with a $546.41 million General Fund. The meeting adjourned at 11:26 AM. Public Comments & Testimony - Chris Thompson (Animal welfare advocate) thanked the council for increased spay/neuter funding and requested that the city plan for dedicating at least 10% of the Fresno Animal Center budget to community spay/neuter programs in FY 2027-2028, citing prevention as cost-effective. Also encouraged transparent reporting on shelter data. - Gavilia Juarez (representing Nastra Communidad Adams) spoke in Spanish and English, requesting that the city consider the needs of the Adams neighborhood, including a park and infrastructure improvements, not just downtown beautification. Emphasized that community voices should be heard. - Javana Morales (Leadership Council) expressed appreciation for continued funding for residents' asks, specifically the acquisition and design of a park in the Adams neighborhood and the Eviction Protection Program (EPP). Asked for resident collaboration in park design and guideline updates for the EPP. - Brandy N. Criticized the city's encampment abatement approach, stating that it leads to inhumane treatment, destruction of belongings, and displacement. Cited high disability rates among unhoused adults (44-50%) and argued for collaborative, health-centered approaches instead of enforcement. - Arianna Opposed the expansion of the HEART team, advocating for alternatives to policing for homeless response. Referenced Atlanta's PAD program as a successful pre-arrest diversion model that housed over 2,000 people in 2023. Called for community response teams and accountability for encampment abatement. Discussion Items - Budget Presentation by Mayor (9:00 AM): The mayor reported a $34.5 million budget shortfall initially, addressed through a combination of increased interest revenue ($1.6M), restored card room revenue ($440,000), an unexpected settlement ($330,000), property sale proceeds ($410,000), EIFD adjustments ($500,000), and shifting expenses to grants. The final balanced budget totals $2.56 billion: General Fund $546.41M, Enterprise/Internal Service Funds $1.12B, Special Revenue $891.97M. The council had previously approved 99 budget motions totaling $49.91M; two-thirds were funded. Key funded items included: - $2M for First Five California early learning initiative - $1.8M for Eviction Protection Program - $1.276M for Advanced Peace (including carryover) - $825,000 for spay/neuter services (with $300K match from Dogwood Animal Rescue) - $500,000 for park land acquisition near Adams Elementary - $1M for Tower District sidewalk beautification - $75M for street/sidewalk construction - $2.64M for two firefighter drill schools (40 new hires) - $21M for Regional Fire Training Center (carryover) - Additional HEART team (1 sergeant, 4 officers) - $550,000 for 1,000 New Trees Initiative - $3.35M for tree trimming (10-year cycle) - $1.05B for 470 major capital projects - City Manager's Thanks and recognition of staff. - Councilmember Arias expressed regret that the $50,000 audit of Diamond Baseball Holdings was not included. Moved to allocate $50,000 from District 3 infrastructure fund for an external independent audit of the Diamond Baseball Holdings operational agreement for Chukchansi Stadium. Motion passed unanimously. - Councilmember Vang moved to amend motion 37 to split $60,000 among three organizations: $20,000 for Families in Action, $20,000 for F.I.R.M., and $20,000 for A Hopeful Encounter, from Council District 5 operating budget. Motion passed. - Councilmember Karbassi made several motions: - Amend motion 2 to allow existing park site funding for Pinedale to also be eligible for park sites west of Highway 99 (moved as revenue-neutral). Passed. - New motion (101) for $200,000 from Riverside Golf Course Capital Fund for First Tee Youth Development Program facility expansion. Passed. - Amend motion 97: $25,000 to Black Chamber of Commerce as fiscal agent for African American Community Council (funded by $15,000 from D2 operating budget and $10,000 from reduction of motion 18). Passed. - Amend motion 15: rename Public Safety Memorial Fund to Devin P. McGuire Public Safety Memorial Fund. Passed 7-0. - Amend motion 98: $80,000 to Sister Cities International contingent on spending plan, plus up to $20,000 if King's Canyon Corridor funds unused. Passed. - Amend motion 5: reduce funding for Sweet Potato Program from $25,000 to $20,000, with $10,000 each from Districts 1 and 2. Passed. - Motion (102) to prioritize $50,000 for Fresno Police and Fire Chaplaincy at midyear review. Passed. - Councilmember Perea highlighted investments in her district, including funding for a citywide tax amendment to facilitate grocery stores and medical offices, support for teen moms, LGBTQ healthcare, domestic violence victims, therapeutic community gardens, $2M for child care/early learning, Tower District library, sidewalk pressure washing and concrete repair, public art, increased spay/neuter funding, smoke shop window period enforcement, eviction protection, and youth leadership program. - Council President Esparza (after final votes) reflected on the budget as the largest in city history ($2.5 billion), noting bipartisan cooperation and the challenges of balancing priorities. Acknowledged the work of council and staff. Key Outcomes - Final Budget Adoption: The council approved the 9:00 AM budget items (A, B, C, E, F) with amendments as part of the FY27 Budget Reconciliation Summary (Exhibit B). The motion superseded all previous budget motions except those adopted during the meeting. The vote was 7-0. - Item A (Salary Resolution): Adopted as Resolution 2026-157, with correction to City Manager salary range (max $28,234 instead of $23,234). - Item B (Position Authorization): Adopted as Resolution 2026-158. - Item C (Annual Appropriation): Adopted as Resolution 2026-159, with correction to Motion 76 (Pave More Now, District 4, $930,000 for HAWK on First and Fairmont). - Item E (Investment Policy): Adopted as Resolution 2026-161. - Item F (Property Tax Override Ordinance): Introduced and adopted as Bill B-19 / Ordinance 2026-20. - Item D (GANN Appropriation Limit): Approved on a separate motion by Vice President Maxwell and Councilmember Perea, passing 5-2 (Esparza and Arias opposed). Adopted as Resolution 2026-160. - All motions and amendments are incorporated into the final budget document, which totals approximately $2.56 billion. The General Fund stands at $546.41 million. - The council directed that three motions be prioritized for FY28 and four be funded through existing Pave More Now dollars. - The mayor and council reiterated a call for the County of Fresno to increase funding for social services and nonprofits, as the city is spending $15 million annually on homeless shelters and services.

The Fresno Historic Preservation Commission held a regular meeting on a date specified as June 23, 2026, in the meeting request, though the official minutes list the meeting as Monday, June 22, 2026, at 6:00 PM. Chair James Sponsler called the meeting to order at 6:00 PM (minutes) or 6:01 PM (transcript). Roll call showed six commissioners present (Chair Sponsler, Vice Chair Hatwig, Commissioners Federico, Laval, Johnston, Eddings) and one absent (Commissioner Halajian). The Commission unanimously approved the April 27, 2026 meeting minutes (motion by Johnston, second by Hatwig, 6-0) and the agenda (motion by Laval, second by Hatwig, 6-0). The meeting focused on updates and reports with no consent calendar or action items. Consent Calendar - None. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the general public provided testimony during the meeting. Discussion Items - Update on the Historic Thomas R. Meux Home (HP2): Quintin Hoskins, President of the Meux Home Museum, presented the museum’s challenges and priorities. He described rising operational costs, a shortage of skilled preservation labor, and deferred maintenance. Specific needs include deteriorated exterior shutters (some missing, some taken down for safety), wood rot, missing decorative ball finials, and roof line concerns (no active leaks). Past successful partnerships with Fresno Unified’s vocational program were highlighted. Hoskins noted the museum’s reliance on volunteers and a board, and mentioned a new Fresno State internship program. Commissioner Laval noted the museum is a city park in a highest-need neighborhood and is eligible for significant Measure P funding; the museum previously received Measure P funds for exterior repairs. Chair Sponsler discussed potential partnerships with CTEC, AVID, and scouting youth service projects. Commissioner Laval also shared that the Historical Society’s Archive on Kern vault, offering climate-controlled storage, is expected to be available by 2027. - Update on Historic Preservation Month Events: Each commissioner summarized their participation. Commissioner Eddings helped assemble the activity calendar, attended the Archive on Kern opening, and promoted events. Commissioners Federico and Johnston presented a joint lecture featuring MK Youngblood of the Mono Tribe covering 10,000 years of Fresno history, with about 20 attendees; they noted a need for earlier promotion. Vice Chair Hatwig participated in the opening event, contributed a themed beer, and helped with the pub quiz. Chair Sponsler led a Bike Through History tour with approximately 30 participants, showcasing historic sites and adaptive reuse, and hosted a financial incentives workshop at the Meux Home for homeowners. Overall, more than 20 events were held in partnership with organizations such as Heritage Fresno and the Archive on Kern, and historic photo displays were installed at City Hall. The subcommittee recommended beginning planning in January and finalizing the calendar by March to improve outreach. Chair Sponsler acknowledged omissions from the calendar due to workload and apologized, emphasizing support for all preservation partners. - Regular Monthly Topics (Staff & Subcommittee Updates): Ashley Atkinson (Assistant Director) provided staff updates: - The Jose Garcia Brewer Adobe property remains in discussions with the owner, who has not selected a development path; staff and the City Attorney’s office are working to ensure minimum maintenance. - The Chinatown Historic District survey update is underway with consultant Stantec; the information-gathering phase has begun. A potential commission subcommittee to assist will be considered for the next agenda. - Recruitment for a historic preservation specialist was unsuccessful; the position remains open. The City has approved a contract with Rincon Consultants to fulfill specialist duties. All inquiries will continue to route through the Historic Preservation Department (historic.preservation@fresno.gov). - Routine work continues: processing permits and entitlements for older buildings, completing Section 106 reviews, and administering the Mills Act program (three applications received, inspections scheduled for August, contracts expected for commission review in October). One mitigation application was completed in April; no new applications due to exhausted funding. Subcommittee updates: The Architectural Review Subcommittee (Commissioner Johnston) reviewed one tenant improvement at 732 Fulton Street with no issues. The Municipal Code Subcommittee (Vice Chair Hatwig) is in the early stages of review and will deepen analysis next month. Chair Sponsler noted that the pillar at Palm and Simpson (destroyed in a car accident) is being rebuilt, and he asked staff to investigate the removal of the Hazelwood and Ventura pillar during an ADA ramp upgrade. Key Outcomes - The meeting was informational with no formal votes or actions taken on individual items. The Commission unanimously approved the meeting minutes and agenda. - Staff will consider forming a subcommittee for the Chinatown Historic District survey and bring a proposal to the next meeting. - The Historic Preservation Month subcommittee will begin planning in January 2027. - Next regular meeting is scheduled for July 27, 2026. Unscheduled Items - Commissioner Laval announced two community updates: 1. The restored G-sign, previously reviewed by the Commission, is now fully installed and will have its first official lighting on Friday, June 26, 2026, at 7:00 PM. A plaque documenting the building’s history is being prepared by the Historical Society and State Center Community College District. 2. As part of the Mayor’s America 250 Celebration Committee, the “250 Voices: One America, One Fresno” project is recording brief community interviews as a digital time capsule for the 2026 semiquincentennial and future tricentennial. The next recording session will be held July 4, 2026, at the Archive on Kern, and the public is encouraged to participate.

The Fresno City Council met on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at 9:00 AM in Council Chambers. The meeting began with roll call at 9:11 AM with all seven members present. The agenda was approved with amendments, including the removal of two major hearings to August 13, 2026, and corrections to consent items. The meeting included ceremonial proclamations, several joint meetings of the City Council, the Housing Successor Agency, and the Fresno Revitalization Corporation, as well as a large consent calendar, contested consent items, and extensive public comment. The council adopted resolutions for housing funding, surplus land disposition, the Active Transportation Plan, a Technology Disruption Policy, and the City Clerk's at-will agreement, among other actions. Key items were tabled or voted on, with notable dissents on arts grant guidelines and a project labor agreement resolution. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes for June 4, 2026 (ID 26-837). - Resolution Amending Council Rules (ID 26-870) to comply with Brown Act changes (Resolution 2026-137). - Resolution Supporting Better Roads, Safe Streets Transportation Measure (ID 26-790) (Resolution 2026-138). - PARCS and Public Safety Solar Projects (ID 26-843): Approved with updated financing terms – design-build contract with Alliance Building Solutions, Inc. not to exceed $5,684,172, lease purchase agreement totaling $6,171,077.11 (including capitalized interest and issuance cost) over 20 years at a rate not to exceed 4.99%, with total loan payment not to exceed $10,509,267.01. Resolutions adopted (2026-139, 140, 141). - Consultant Services Agreements: Krazan & Associates ($623,830) for H Street Parking Structure (ID 26-732); All Hazard EHS Inc. and JSA Environmental Consulting Inc. (each $100,000) for lead-based paint services (ID 26-767); Carollo Engineers for wastewater facility rehabilitation (IDs 26-597, 26-598); and others. - Contract Awards: Change Order for Garage 9 Renovation ($83,886.57 increase, ID 26-729); Construction contract for Pump Station 290A ($850,155.65, ID 26-698); Merced Street Reconnection ($1,337,601, ID 26-728); Pave More Now Package B-2 ($14,488,896.79, ID 26-813); Wellhead Treatment Improvements ($857,000, ID 26-774). - Other Approvals: Municipal Advisor contract with KNN Public Finance ($425,000, ID 26-829); Oracle support with Mythics LLC (up to $830,000 over three years, ID 26-806); Second Amendment to Best Tours & Travel contract ($110,000 increase, ID 26-740); Grant application for Digital Literacy ($200,000, ID 26-807); Sole source contract for water meters ($5,235,863.45, ID 26-546); Amendments for transportation and transit (IDs 26-772, 26-825, 26-624, 26-803); Appointment of April D. Henry to Active Transportation Advisory Committee (ID 26-889); and others. - Resolution Requesting Renegotiation of Citywide Project Labor Agreement (ID 26-890) – Approved 6-1 (Councilmember Richardson opposed). - Expanded Access to Arts and Culture Grant Program (ID 26-820) – Approved 6-1 (Councilmember Richardson opposed). The resolutions adopted guidelines and created ad-hoc review committees (ARC Groups A through E). The item was corrected to read "EAAC Project Support Grants" instead of "Project Specific Grants." Public Comments & Testimony - General Public Comment on Consent, Contested Consent, and Closed Session: Over 30 speakers addressed the council on various items, including Measure P arts funding, Granite Park operations, Republic Services complaints, and other topics. - On Measure P EAAC Grants: Multiple speakers (Nicholas Lee, Alicia R., Johannes Reinders, Joseph Rodriguez, Crystal Rocha, Trisha Baeza, Christina Soto, and others) opposed raising the grant cap to $350,000, arguing it would concentrate funds among large institutions and harm smaller organizations and individual artists. They urged maintaining the Parks and Recreation Commission's recommended $150,000 cap. Some speakers expressed distrust due to the Fresno Arts Council embezzlement scandal and alleged backroom deals. Supporters of the $350,000 cap (Elizabeth Laval, Michelle Ellis Pracy) argued that larger organizations have greater responsibilities and that the cap is competitive, not automatic. - On Granite Park (Central Valley Community Sports Foundation): Many speakers (Esmeralda Soria, Rod Wade, Chef Soupy, Lisa Torrecillas, Glenda Stancill, Jamar Tlushdan, Tamara Ramos, Genevie Barraza, David Suarez, Madeline Frazier, Tom Goodwin, Bryan Marsgobian, and others) expressed strong support for Terrence Frazier and the nonprofit's management of Granite Park. They highlighted the park's transformation from blight to a community asset, its positive impact on youth, job creation, and the financial contributions of Mr. Frazier. They urged the council to allow the foundation to continue operating pending appeal and criticized the city's litigation against the nonprofit. One speaker, Chris Foxen, defended the foundation's record on billboard revenue and insurance compliance. - On Republic Services: Two residents (Neil O'Brien, Patrick Farney) detailed chronic failures in trash and recycling collection at their properties, despite monitoring and complaints. They called for a city-level inquiry, review of the contract, and public reporting of billing issues. Councilmember Karbassi acknowledged ongoing issues with Republic Services. - On Other Items: Brunette (Heat) and Diane Smith expressed opposition to projects in District 3, citing lack of community engagement. Hester Hensley attempted to speak on Southwest Fresno but was ruled out of order for not addressing a specific agenda item. Others spoke on the Technology Disruption Policy and general concerns. - Ceremonial Presentations: Proclamations were presented for the 76th Anniversary of Fresno NAACP, Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month, and Roosevelt High School Baseball Day. Several speakers shared personal stories related to Alzheimer's and the baseball championship. Discussion Items - 9:05 AM - Local Housing Trust Fund Agreement for The Park at South Stadium (ID 26-146): The council approved a $3,727,000 agreement with The Park Partners LLC for a 174-unit multifamily rental housing project at 815-835 Fulton Street. The project leverages $69 million in bond financing and $8 million in state revolving loan funds. Public speakers opposed the project citing lack of community input. The mayor and Councilmember Arias defended the project as a long-awaited development of vacant land to address the housing crisis. Approved 7-0 by the council and 8-0 by the Successor Agency (including Mayor Dyer). - 9:10 AM - Landscaping and Lighting Assessment (ID 26-791): Resolution confirming the annual assessment for District No. 1 for 2026-2027. No public comment or discussion. Adopted 7-0 (Resolution 2026-129). - 9:15 AM - Disposition of Surplus Lands (ID 26-885): Six resolutions declaring various parcels as exempt surplus land or surplus land, paving the way for transfer to the State of California (for the Fifth District Court of Appeal) and potential development. Public comment opposed the process. Councilmember Arias provided historical context on redevelopment agency dissolution. Adopted 7-0 by the council and 8-0 by the Fresno Revitalization Corporation (Resolutions 2026-130 through 2026-135). - 9:20 AM - Text Amendment for Housing Streamlining (ID 26-561): Proposed amendment to allow ministerial approval of housing developments with at least 20% affordable units on certain sites. Councilmember Karbassi requested a map of affected sites. The item was tabled to June 25, 2026, on a 4-3 vote (Esparza, Karbassi, Vang, Richardson in favor; Maxwell, Perea, Arias opposed). - 9:25 AM - Active Transportation Plan Adoption (ID 26-775): Adopted the 2026 Active Transportation Plan and Project Prioritization Tool, with a CEQA exemption. One public speaker opposed. Adopted 7-0 (Resolution 2026-136). - 10:00 AM - Appearance by Amilea Gonzalez (ID 26-777): Did not appear. - 3:55 PM - Central Southeast Area Specific Plan (ID 26-389): Tabled to August 13, 2026, by Councilmember Karbassi during agenda approval. A motion to place it back on the agenda for today failed 2-5. - 4:00 PM - Elm Avenue Rezone (ID 26-830): Also tabled to August 13, 2026. A motion to keep it on the agenda failed 5-2 (only Arias and Vang in favor). The applicant's attorney requested a continuance to the same date as the specific plan. - Contested Consent - Helm Lofts (ID 26-145): Approved a $1,600,000 contribution from City funds and $8,000,000 from the revolving loan fund for a 98-unit multifamily housing project at 1101 Fulton Street. Council discussion focused on the repayment terms (5-year balloon at 4.81% interest). Approved 6-0 (Councilmember Karbassi absent). - General Administration - Technology Disruption Policy (ID 26-845): Resolution adopting a policy to handle technology disruptions during public meetings, required by SB 707, effective July 1, 2026. The policy outlines procedures for restoring service and allows reconvening after one hour if unable to restore. One public speaker criticized the council's understanding of the Brown Act. Adopted 7-0 (Resolution 2026-156). - City Council - City Clerk At-Will Agreement (ID 26-831): Approved an oral summary report and at-will agreement for City Clerk Amy Aller (Cobb), effective June 15, 2026, with an annual salary of $210,000, benefits for unrepresented employees, $300 monthly vehicle allowance, $598 annual bar renewal reimbursement, and conference attendance. Approved 7-0. - Presentation by Neil O'Brien (ID 26-848): Mr. O'Brien presented complaints about Republic Services' waste collection failures, supported by video evidence. Councilmembers acknowledged the issue and the city manager noted ongoing monitoring and cure opportunities. Key Outcomes - Votes with Tallies: - Agenda approval as amended: Unanimous (7-0). - Local Housing Trust Fund (ID 26-146): Council 7-0; Successor Agency 8-0. - Landscaping and Lighting Assessment (ID 26-791): 7-0 (Resolution 2026-129). - Surplus Land Disposition (ID 26-885): Council 7-0; FRC 8-0 (Resolutions 2026-130 through 2026-135). - Text Amendment (ID 26-561): Tabled to June 25, 2026, by 4-3 vote. - Active Transportation Plan (ID 26-775): 7-0 (Resolution 2026-136). - Consent Calendar: Approved, with Councilmember Richardson voting no on items 2-O (EAAC Grants) and 2-FF (Project Labor Agreement). Both items passed 6-1. - Helm Lofts (ID 26-145): 6-0 (Karbassi absent). - Technology Disruption Policy (ID 26-845): 7-0 (Resolution 2026-156). - City Clerk Agreement (ID 26-831): 7-0. - Tabled Items: - Central Southeast Area Specific Plan (ID 26-389) tabled to August 13, 2026, at 3:55 PM. - Elm Avenue Rezone (ID 26-830) tabled to August 13, 2026, at 4:00 PM. - Closed Session: The council discussed labor negotiations and several litigation matters. In open session, the City Attorney reported a settlement in the eminent domain case City of Fresno v. Gurpreet Chauhan (Case No. 25CECG00464). The settlement provides for title vesting in the City upon payment of $532,000 (with $185,000 already deposited), plus interest, funded by Measure C and state grant funds. Approved 7-0 in closed session. - Directives/Next Steps: Staff to provide a map of sites affected by the housing text amendment for the June 25 meeting. The council acknowledged ongoing issues with Republic Services and indicated possible future action. The Granite Park eviction and appeal remain pending.

The Building Standards Appeals Board met on June 18, 2026, at 1:00 PM in Room 2165, City Hall, Fresno. The board considered one appeal concerning code enforcement case E 25-13830 at 3436 N Virginia Lane. The board confirmed the Notice and Order and Citation, and ordered a progress hearing. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of the June 2, 2026 regular meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Discussion Items - Appeal of Code Enforcement Case E 25-13830 (3436 N Virginia Lane): The appellant, Catarino Pardo, represented the property owner James Molina. The case involved unpermitted construction including kitchen alterations, HVAC work, and walling off a bedroom. Code Inspector Derek Henderson investigated after a complaint. The city issued a Notice and Order on November 5, 2025, and a Citation on March 24, 2026, after 139 days of attempted compliance. The appellant argued that he was present for scheduled inspections but inspectors were late or did not show, and that the work was minor. The city argued that permits were required and that the homeowner had ample time to obtain them. The board discussed the scope of work, including the HVAC unit which clearly required a permit. Key Outcomes - The board voted 4-0 (Member Ransom absent) to approve the motion to confirm both Violation 1 (alterations to hallway/room) and Violation 2 (kitchen and HVAC alterations) in the Notice and Order, and to confirm the Citation. - The board also voted 4-0 to require a progress hearing within 30 to 60 days to check on permit compliance. The board clarified that the hearing would assess progress, not require full permit issuance within that time.