Public Meetings - Fresno, California

The Building Standards Appeals Board met on June 3, 2026 (per provided metadata, though the minutes and transcript indicate Tuesday, June 2, 2026 at 1:00 PM; this discrepancy is noted). The board considered two enforcement matters: a progress hearing on a citation for 4816 E. Fillmore Ave. and an appeal of a Notice and Order for properties at 2220 N. Weber Ave. / 1827 W. Clinton Ave. Both items were approved unanimously with the board finding substantial progress in the first case and confirming the Notice and Order with a 30-day extension in the second. Consent Calendar - Approval of the May 19, 2026 Building Standards Appeals Board regular meeting minutes. Approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Discussion Items - Progress Hearing – Case E23-01585 (4816 E. Fillmore Ave.): Senior Deputy City Attorney Sarah Papazian presented the progress hearing for a first administrative citation issued December 17, 2025. At a prior hearing on April 6, 2026, the board had confirmed five violations: three unpermitted HVAC installations and two abandoned permits. The city reported that 16 permits had been opened, with 12 fully finalized and 4 still in progress (one expired permit needing reactivation, one awaiting additional information, and two issued permits pending inspection). Code Enforcement had no objection to a finding of substantial progress. The appellants, represented by Ryan Porte, submitted on the city's presentation. The board unanimously found substantial progress had been made and continued the hearing to a later date. - Appeal of Notice and Order – Case E26-04602 (2220 N. Weber Ave. / 1827 W. Clinton Ave.): Papazian presented the appeal of a Notice and Order issued April 9, 2026, citing seven violations: unpermitted exterior siding replacement, an improperly constructed fence (lacking emergency egress, over height, unapproved material, contrary to site plan), a hazardous tree, and siding without weather protection. The city stated that at the time of the hearing, all violations except the unpermitted siding had been corrected. The appellants, through Ryan Porte, argued that substantial progress had been made and requested a 60-day compliance schedule, noting that the Notice was only two months old and that five of seven violations were already corrected. Porte also challenged the city's requirement to withdraw the appeal as a condition for a time extension, calling it unreasonable. The city maintained that the board must evaluate the property as of the Notice issuance date and that the unpermitted work was underway before the Notice. Board members noted that the code limits the board to a 30-day extension. After discussion, a motion was made to confirm the Notice and Order in total and grant a 30-day extension. The motion carried unanimously. Key Outcomes - Item VIII-A: The board determined that the appellants at 4816 E. Fillmore Ave. had made substantial progress toward correcting the violations from the December 17, 2025 citation. The hearing was continued to a later date. Vote: 4-0 (Vincent, Field, Mears, Ransom; Golik absent). - Item VIII-B: The board confirmed the Notice and Order issued April 9, 2026 for 2220 N. Weber Ave. / 1827 W. Clinton Ave. in its entirety and ordered the appellants to repair the outstanding violations (primarily the unpermitted siding) within 30 days. Vote: 4-0 (same). The board noted that if substantial progress is shown at the progress hearing, further extensions may be considered.

The committee met on June 3, 2026, to discuss several items including a state-mandated housing text amendment, design review of a water vending kiosk, a conditional use permit for a Dutch Bros relocation, and implementation of the specific plan. The meeting included technical difficulties with a member's audio, but proceeded with discussions and votes. Discussion Items Chairman's Report - Chair reported attending a review of 10 student presentations from City College on infill design for a Tower District commercial lot. He praised the variety of designs and suggested inviting students to a future meeting. Approval of Minutes - Minutes from the previous meeting were approved with an amendment to add a request for staff to schedule meetings with responsible departments to discuss implementation. Motion carried unanimously. Text Amendment (State Housing Law Compliance) - Ashley Atkinson presented a text amendment to the Development Code to comply with state law requiring ministerial approval for housing projects with 20% affordable units on sites that have been on the housing element inventory for 8+ years. Affects about 250 sites citywide. Committee discussed the burden of state mandates but acknowledged the requirement. No formal vote was taken; the item was for information. Water Mill Express (Design Review) - A proposal for a new prefabricated water/ice vending kiosk at the Tower Market corner. Committee members expressed concern about placing it on the prominent corner of Olive and Van Ness, preferring a location closer to the market building to preserve walkability and future infill potential. They also noted the need to comply with design guidelines (bulkhead treatment, signage). A motion was made and seconded to direct the applicant to explore alternative locations away from the street corner and to provide design guideline compliance. The motion carried. (Note: This is a recommendation, not a final approval.) Dutch Bros Relocation (Conditional Use Permit) - Applicant presented plans for a relocated Dutch Bros coffee stand from McKinley to a site on Blackstone Avenue near Yale, due to the highway underpass project. The proposal includes a double-lane drive-thru with stacking for 19 vehicles, a walk-up window, and 14 parking spaces. Hours: 5am-10pm (11pm Fri-Sat). Committee members raised concerns about traffic impacts on the adjacent residential area, environmental effects of idling cars, and the need for landscaping and screening. A motion to conditionally approve the project, contingent on receiving feedback from city staff on landscaping, screening, neighbor notification, and traffic/environmental studies, passed 4-2. The committee also requested that future project packets include any conditions already imposed by city staff. Key Outcomes - Motion to recommend alternative location for Water Mill Express (carried, no count given). - Motion to conditionally approve Dutch Bros relocation (4-2 in favor). - Motion to require inclusion of city staff conditions in future project review packets (carried unanimously). - Implementation issues: Chair noted lack of department staff attendance at meetings and will seek to address with management. - Announcements: 29 lampposts painted in the district; Caltrans contacted about 180 landscaping; discussion of Porch Fest feedback. Public Comments - No public comments were recorded.

On June 1, 2026, the Fresno Parks, Recreation, and Arts Commission (PRAC) held a special meeting to hear the Mayor’s proposed Fiscal Year 2027 budget for the Parks, After School, Recreation and Community Services Department (PARCS), Department of Public Utilities (DPU), Public Works Department (PW), and Police Department (PD). The meeting included presentations from department staff, commissioner questions and discussion, and a vote to recommend the budget to the City Council. The meeting was adjourned in memory of Dr. Francine Oputa. Discussion Items - Budget Presentation: PARCS Business Manager Xiong presented the FY27 Measure P Mayor’s proposed budget, totaling approximately $116.8 million in revenue. Key allocations included $22 million for parks operations (Category 1), $4.5 million for senior/youth/veterans programming (Category 3), $12.5 million for arts and culture (Category 4), and $12 million for safe walking/bike trails and street beautification (Category 5). The presentation highlighted carryover balances, projected sales tax revenue, and interest. - Public Works and Beautify Fresno: Project Liaison Standriff reported that DPU’s quad crews (two funded by Measure P) collected nearly 4 million pounds of trash in FY26, resulting in a 27% decrease in illegal dumping calls. Over 9,000 volunteers participated in 151 cleanup events, removing 102,000 pounds of trash, 100,000 square feet of graffiti, and planting 50 trees. Public Works Director Mozier noted that 65 miles of citywide trails are now complete, with new projects including the River West Eaton Trail Extension and the Midtown Trail segments nearing completion. He also highlighted a proposed $500,000 trail feasibility study for west of State Route 99. - Police Department Park Ranger Program: Deputy Chief Beckwith reported that 18 of 20 allotted park rangers are currently staffed (two vacancies due to hires becoming police officers). Rangers are assigned to each of five policing districts, working 6:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Their duties include visibility, reporting crime, issuing citations (primarily parking), and community engagement. Beckwith stated that crime numbers in parks mirror overall city declines, particularly in auto theft and property crimes. Commissioner McCoy expressed concern that rangers are often seen in their vehicles rather than interacting with the public, and asked that this be addressed. - PARCS Project Highlights: Projects Administrator Portale reported that in FY26, 18 capital improvement projects were completed or close to completion, including new parks, sports courts, restrooms, and shade structures. In FY27, 31 projects are expected to be completed, adding over 25 acres of new park space, 19 sport courts, 13 restrooms, and more. Projects seeking construction funding include the El Dorado Park improvements and the Southeast Fresno Sports Complex. Commissioner Barraza clarified that the pocket park on Tulare and 11th Street has $1.393 million in funding for construction. - Commissioner Questions and Concerns: - Commissioner McCoy asked about the timeline for HVAC installation at the Maxie L. Parks Center; staff explained that additional CDBG funding was secured and the project is moving toward bidding. - Commissioner McCoy also inquired about unpaid grants from Category 4 (arts) round two; staff promised to provide a detailed breakdown. - Commissioner Barraza asked about the feasibility of a soccer academy; staff said PARCS already offers soccer programs and could discuss partnerships. - Commissioner Duran questioned the impact of park rangers on public safety and alcohol consumption; Beckwith noted that rangers observe and report, and that alcohol incidents are not a major problem. - Commissioner Ward asked about restroom rehabilitation at Roeding Park; staff confirmed that new prefab restrooms with automatic locking will be installed, addressing safety and maintenance concerns. - Commissioner Kucharski asked about the potential for doubling the number of projects completed; Director Aguirre explained that the increase from 18 to 31 projects reflects the natural progression from design to construction, and that future increases depend on grant funding. - Commissioner Kucharski also asked about the River Parkway trail crew’s maintenance list; Mozier provided examples including Camp Peshain, Jensen River Ranch, and the Lewis S. Eaton Trail. - Commissioner Caglia noted the need for a comprehensive trail connection plan and asked about trails in Southwest Fresno; Mozier mentioned Church Avenue and Jensen Avenue trails, and the feasibility study. - Commissioner Miller inquired about the Al Radka dog park expansion; staff confirmed it is in design (90% complete) but lacks construction funding. - Commissioner Duran asked about beach soccer demand; Director Aguirre said it has not been requested but is open to discussion. - Commissioner Ward noted that participants at the Fresno Street park have had to clean up dead animals; staff agreed to adjust maintenance routes to address this. Key Outcomes - Motion to Recommend Budget: Commissioner Barraza moved, and Commissioner Miller seconded, that the Commission recommend the City Council adopt the proposed FY27 budget for PARCS, with the Commission expressing support for the department’s proposed allocations and priorities. The motion passed unanimously (8 ayes: Chair McCoy, Vice Chair Ward, Commissioners Barraza, Caglia, Dohlin, Duran, Kucharski, and Miller). - Existing Recommendations: The Commission noted that nine budget recommendations made on November 17, 2025, are already included in the Mayor’s proposed budget and will be presented to the City Council. - Next Steps: The City Council will hold a budget hearing on June 8, 2026, and is scheduled to adopt the FY27 budget by June 30, 2026. Note: The meeting was adjourned at 7:03 p.m. in memory of Dr. Francine Oputa.

The Building Standards Appeals Board met on May 21, 2026, to consider an appeal of a Code Enforcement notice and order for property at 1347 E. Shields Ave., Fresno. The appeal concerned two unpermitted structures—a covered patio and an enclosed patio—that the city alleged were added without required plans, permits, or inspections. After hearing staff and the appellant, the board voted 3-1 to confirm the notice and order, requiring the appellant to correct the violations. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes: The board unanimously approved the April 7, 2026 Building Standards Appeals Board Regular Meeting minutes. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public offered testimony during the public comment period. Discussion Items - Staff presentation: Deputy City Attorney III Christina Pina presented the case, stating that a December 2025 complaint alleged the single-family home was being operated as a duplex. Inspector research found historic permits from 1948–1950 for earlier additions but no permits for the covered and enclosed patios observed during a December 17, 2025 inspection. A 1960 Sanborn map and 2025 aerial imagery showed these structures were built later without permits. Pina concluded both additions violated the Fresno Municipal Code and recommended the board confirm the notice and order. - Appellant testimony: Marichele Porter, the property owner, explained she purchased the home in 2020 from a flipper who performed cosmetic work. She argued the enclosed living area was a garage conversion documented in County Assessor records from 1950 and should be grandfathered, claiming permits were not required by Fresno City until 1958. She expressed concern that enforcement could displace a mother and her two children renting the unit and that the cost of permitting (upwards of $30,000) was financially burdensome. She requested dismissal of the violation related to the enclosed space or, alternatively, a safety inspection in lieu of full permitting. - Rebuttal: Pina countered that the City of Fresno’s permit requirements predate 1958, noting permits were on file for the property from 1948–1950. She emphasized that the disputed structures do not appear on the 1960 Sanborn map and that the appellant’s submitted documents could not be verified. She stated that the residential building record form appeared to be from after 1994 and its handwriting was unverifiable. - Board discussion: Board members debated the age of the structures, the reliability of historical records, potential life-safety concerns, and their obligation to apply the Fresno Municipal Code using a preponderance of evidence standard. Board Member Field noted the difficulty in determining when the additions were built. Chair Golik expressed doubt about the sufficiency of evidence to confirm the violations. Board Member Vincent acknowledged the appellant’s difficult situation but stated the board must apply the code. The board discussed the possibility of flexible timelines if the appellant worked with the Building Division. The board also heard from staff that the building department could work with the owner to evaluate the structures against the code in effect at the time of construction. Key Outcomes - Motion to confirm notice and order: Vice Chair Vincent moved, and Board Member Field seconded, to confirm the Notice and Order issued January 2, 2026, in its entirety (Option 1). The motion carried 3-1, with Vincent, Field, and Mears voting aye, Golik voting nay, and Board Member Ransom absent. - Next steps: The appellant is ordered to repair/correct the confirmed violations (unpermitted covered patio and enclosed patio). The board encouraged Ms. Porter to work closely with the Building Division, which offered flexibility and extended timelines as long as progress toward compliance continues. A progress hearing will be scheduled within 30 days of the meeting date.

The Planning Commission met at City Hall Council Chambers, 2600 Fresno Street, with Chair Peter Vang presiding. The official minutes record the meeting as Wednesday, May 20, 2026, beginning with roll call at 6:03 p.m. and adjourning at 6:09 p.m.; this summary uses the requested meeting date of May 21, 2026. Commissioners Monica Diaz, Jacqueline Lyday, Linda Calandra, and Gurdeep Singh Shergill were present. The minutes list Vice Chair Kathy Bray absent, but the later vote records list Commissioner Criner and Commissioner Bray as absent; the roster also included one vacant seat. There were no consent calendar items, new matters, or scheduled/unscheduled oral communications. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke. Chair Vang opened public comment for Item ID 26-668 only, and none was received. Items VII-B and VII-C were not opened for public comment because they were continued to a future meeting. Reports by Commissioners - Commissioner Gurdeep Singh Shergill reported receiving community calls about potholes and park concerns. He encouraged residents to use the FresGo app to report potholes, park maintenance needs, and other neighborhood concerns, noting that the City of Fresno has invested significantly in the app and hopes the community will use it to support beautification efforts. Continued Matters - ID 26-668 — Vesting Tentative Tract Map No. 6540 / Planned Development Permit P25-01629: Director Jennifer Clark requested that the Commission refer this item back to staff for later re-noticing. The project covers approximately 26.25 acres on the west side of North Willow Avenue between North Portofino and North Alicante Drives and proposes a 138-lot single-unit residential subdivision, a Planned Development Permit to modify RS-4 standards for reduced front yard setbacks and reduced lot size, width, and depth, and a CEQA addendum dated April 1, 2026. No public comment was received. - ID 26-669 — Plan Amendment/Rezone P24-00452, Tract Map 6419, PDP P24-00449: This item was continued to June 3, 2026, with no action required. It concerns approximately 8.47 acres at the northeast corner of East Copper Avenue and North Portofino Drive, proposing a General Plan/community plan amendment to Medium Density Residential, a rezone to RS-5, a 53-lot single-unit residential subdivision, and a Planned Development Permit that would allow gated private streets and other development standard modifications. - ID 26-670 — Plan Amendment/Rezone P22-02694, CUP P22-03569: This item was continued to June 3, 2026, with no action required. It involves ±0.84 acres of vacant land on the north side of East Copper Avenue between North Maple and North Cedar Avenues, a plan amendment and rezone from Commercial Community to Commercial General, and a conditional use permit for a ±3,500-square-foot automated car wash facility with a ±2,813-square-foot canopy. Key Outcomes - Agenda approved 5–0 by roll-call vote on a motion by Commissioner Diaz, seconded by Commissioner Calandra; Vice Chair Bray and Commissioner Criner were absent. - Item ID 26-668 referred back to staff 5–0 on a motion by Chair Vang, seconded by Commissioner Shergill; staff will re-notice the item and bring it back at a later date. - Items ID 26-669 and ID 26-670 were continued to June 3, 2026 by the Chair; no vote was required. - Director Jennifer Clark encouraged commissioners and the public to attend the Historic Preservation Month pub quiz on May 21, 2026, at Moses McQueen's in downtown Fresno. - Chair Vang adjourned the meeting at 6:09 p.m.

The Fresno City Council met on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at 9:00 AM in Council Chambers for a regular meeting. The meeting included ceremonial presentations, scheduled hearings, a consent calendar, contested consent items, a workshop on a transparency portal, and closed session discussions. Six councilmembers were present (Esparza, Maxwell, Perea, Karbassi, Arias, Vang); Councilmember Richardson was absent. Key actions included approval of a major Costco Commercial Center project, adoption of the 2026-2027 Annual Action Plan, and approval of Community Facilities District annexations. Ceremonial Presentations - Older Americans Month (May 2026): Presented by Council President Esparza and Vice President Maxwell; recognized Dr. Bill Daly and West Fresno Family Resource Center. - Vietnam Veterans of America William G. Camp Chapter 933 Memorial Day (May 25, 2026): Presented by Councilmember Karbassi on behalf of Councilmember Richardson. - National Bike Month (May 2026): Presented by Councilmember Vang and Mayor Dyer; celebrated by the Active Transportation Advisory Committee. - National Public Works Week (May 17–23, 2026): Presented by Mayor Dyer; recognized Public Works, Utilities, and General Services departments. - Honoring Kehinde Solwazi on His Retirement: Proclaimed May 21, 2026 as Dr. Solwazi Day for his contributions to Fresno City College and the African American community. - Celebrating 70 Years at KFSN-TV: Proclaimed May 21, 2026 as KFSN-TV ABC 30 Day. - Central High School Wrestling Team: Recognized the undefeated 21-0 season and academic achievements. - Fresno City College Beach Volleyball Team: Recognized the historic undefeated 29-0 season and state championships. - A proclamation for Mid Valley’s Recycler of the Year was tabled with no return date. Public Comments & Testimony - CFD No. 9 Annexation No. 73 (9:15 AM): Brunette from Southwest Fresno opposed the annexation and consultant fees, stating the community has no say in District 3 decisions. - 2026-2027 Annual Action Plan (9:25 AM): Speakers included Brandi Nevarez (support for housing and health services), Lady Diana Oliva (support for South Tower Land Trust and Hopwa funding), Kiel Lopez Schmidt (support for community-led HOPWA services), Ashley (support for South Tower Land Trust community work), and Dallas Blanchard (program manager of Needle Exchange, clarified referral role). - Consent Calendar/Contested Consent/Closed Session: Anthony Molina (supported Vision Zero and active transportation); Khalila Lee (code enforcement complaint at 4070 East Butler); Joseph R. (opposed Entertainment Zone); Brunette (again); Joe Martinez (supported Vision Zero, shared personal story of traffic violence); Alfred Aldrete (opposed Entertainment Zone). - BOLD Program (9:40 AM): Darren Rose (Building Industry Association) expressed strong support. - Costco Project (9:20 AM): Daniel Bran (opponent) argued zoning and CEQA flaws; Doug Jensen (landowner) urged approval; David Burkhart (resident) supported the project for tax base and convenience. Discussion Items - Community Facilities District No. 9 Annexation No. 74 (9:10 AM): Approved without presentation or public comment; vote 4-0 (Esparza, Perea, Richardson absent). - Community Facilities District No. 9 Annexation No. 73 (9:15 AM): Presented by Utility Manager Mata. Approved 6-0 after explanation that it sets a special tax on a Starbucks property for maintenance. - Costco Commercial Center Project (9:20 AM): Extensive discussion. Planning Manager Siegrist presented the revised EIR (partially recirculated to address greenhouse gas emissions). The council heard from Costco’s legal counsel and technical experts. Key issues: zoning consistency of the Market Delivery Operation (MDO) as an accessory use; GHG analysis using state/regional policies; applicability of VMT mitigation fees (deemed not legally feasible because VMT program adopted after EIR circulation). Councilmember Karbassi moved to approve, citing job retention, income capture, and cost-of-living benefits. Councilmember Arias questioned effectiveness of trip reduction measures. The project includes conditions: new road (Arthur Ave) to route truck traffic away from homes, traffic signal upgrades, turn pockets, and EV charging stations. Approved 5-0 (Arias absent, Richardson absent). - 2026-2027 Annual Action Plan (9:25 AM): Hearing for public input. Councilmember Arias moved to reallocate $150,000 (from Westcare and Community Medical Centers) to South Tower Community Land Trust for HOPWA-funded housing support. Motion failed for lack of a second. Staff clarified that the proposed needle exchange referral component is not an eligible HOPWA activity. The item was held until afternoon for further information. Later in the afternoon, council approved the plan as recommended by staff 5-0 (Karbassi absent) with intent to seek alternative funding for South Tower during budget process. A question about a 10-foot security fence for Fire Station 3 was resolved: staff confirmed it will be built to 6-foot standard per development code. - Senior Activity Center TOD Housing Street Improvements (9:30 AM): Approved 6-0. Includes dedication of city property for street easements and authorization of eminent domain for a permanent easement. - Rescinding Heritage Property Designation of Haruji Ego Family Building (9:35 AM): Approved 6-0. The building was destroyed by fire; designation no longer applicable. - BOLD Program (9:40 AM): Approved 5-1 (Arias voted no). Authorizes the California Municipal Finance Authority to accept applications for Mello-Roos financing for new development. Heard public support from the Building Industry Association. - Transparency Portal Workshop (3-A): Presented by Interim City Clerk Aller and Senior Programmer Analyst Braz. The portal will provide a single search bar for all city documents, use AI for summaries, and be updated live. Councilmembers suggested adding date range filters and contract amounts. Expected to go live next month. Consent Calendar - Approved as amended (motion by Arias, seconded by Karbassi; 6-0). Items included approval of minutes, contract amendments for airport services, parking structure design-build, wastewater facility contracts, public works contracts, interagency agreements, and adoption of the Vision Zero Action Plan. Items removed: Lease of Fresno Water Tower (tabled to June 4), Caltrans agreements (tabled), Salary Resolution amendment (removed), and Eviction Protection Program funding (removed). Contested Consent Calendar - Naming of “Arakelian Family Kennels” (2-U): Moved to contested consent by Councilmember Arias for discussion. Approved 6-0 after explanation that the kennel was built with $290,000 in donations and in-kind contributions; city responsible for maintenance. - First Amendment to Bodewell Group LLC Contract (2-V): Moved to contested consent by Councilmember Arias. Approved 6-0. The amendment increases compensation by $1,156,632 for stakeholder engagement and public education on utility rates, including support for the upcoming Proposition 218 process. Councilmember Arias questioned the timing and scope, but accepted staff’s explanation that it is the pre-planned second year of a multi-year contract. Key Outcomes - Costco Commercial Center Project: Approved (5-0). The project includes a 219,216 sq. ft. warehouse, carwash, 32 fuel pumps, and a market delivery operation. Conditions include traffic improvements, EV charging, and routing truck traffic away from residential streets. - 2026-2027 Annual Action Plan Adopted: Resolution 2026-97 approved (5-0). Allocates $6,907,129 CDBG, $2,766,057 HOME, $623,922 ESG, and $1,268,358 HOPWA. A motion to reallocate funds to South Tower Community Land Trust failed. - CFD No. 9 Annexations Approved: Resolutions and ordinances adopted for Annexation 74 (4-0) and Annexation 73 (6-0), levying special taxes for property maintenance. - BOLD Program Authorized: Resolution 2026-110 adopted (5-1, Arias no), enabling property owners to apply for Mello-Roos financing. - Senior Center Street Easements Approved: Resolution 2026-107 and 2026-108 adopted (6-0). - Heritage Property Designation Rescinded: Resolution 2026-109 adopted (6-0). - Consent Calendar Approved: 23 items, including Vision Zero Action Plan, Active Transportation grant applications, and various contracts. - Arakelian Family Kennels Named: Resolution 2026-114 adopted (6-0). - Bodewell Group Contract Amendment Approved: 6-0. - Closed Session: Discussed labor negotiations, anticipated litigation (two cases), and performance evaluation of the City Clerk. No reportable actions announced. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 4:26 PM in memory of Rod Russell (former firefighter) and Anna Lea Dyer.

The Council District 4 Project Review Committee met on May 20, 2026 (the transcript indicates Tuesday, May 19, 2026; this discrepancy is noted) at 5:30 p.m. The committee reviewed a text amendment to the municipal code regarding housing element sites and a conditional use permit for a beer license at Fresno Indoor Soccer. Both items received committee approval as recommendations. Consent Calendar - Approval of meeting agenda and draft minutes from April 21, 2026, were approved unanimously. Discussion Items - Text Amendment P26-01326: Proposed amendment to the Fresno Municipal Code to comply with state law requiring ministerial approval for housing projects on sites that have been in the housing element sites inventory for one to two cycles (8–16 years) if the project includes at least 20% affordable units. Assistant Planning Director Ashley Atkinson presented, explaining the amendment affects about 180 sites citywide. Committee members discussed the number of sites in District 4 (unknown), reasons for lack of development (cost barriers), and the public availability of site inventory. A motion to recommend approval passed unanimously. - Conditional Use Permit P26-0106: Fresno Indoor Soccer, represented by owner Milton Blackle, requested a conditional use permit to sell beer at the facility. Blackle described his personal background and commitment to the community, noting renovations and security measures. The beer would be sold in a designated area, separate from youth activities, with limited hours and security. Committee members asked about hours, security, and community impact. A motion to approve the permit passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - The committee voted to recommend approval of the text amendment (P26-01326) to the Planning Commission and City Council. - The committee approved the conditional use permit for Fresno Indoor Soccer (P26-0106) for a beer license. - Administrative reminders: committee members were reminded to complete net file forms (Form 700 and RDA form) and ethics training. The meeting was adjourned at 5:59 p.m.

The Fresno Parks, Recreation, and Arts Commission (PRAC) held a regular meeting on Monday, May 18, 2026, at 5:30 PM in City Council Chambers. The central focus was the third cycle of the Expanded Access to Arts and Culture (EAAC) Grant Program, including a workshop, discussion of draft guidelines and the Application Review Committee (ARC) handbook, and public hearings. After extensive public comment and commission deliberation, the guidelines were approved as amended on a 6‑1 vote, with Commissioner Caglia dissenting. A special meeting was scheduled for May 26, 2026, to review the mayor’s FY27 budget and finalize any additional guideline revisions before city council consideration. Consent Calendar - Agenda item 5‑A (approval of April 20, 2026 minutes) and agenda item 5‑B (excused absence for Commissioner Duran) were approved unanimously. The agenda itself was approved as amended after staff noted attachment corrections. Public Comments & Testimony - During Unscheduled Communication (9 speakers), several community members raised concerns about: the prolonged closure of the Pine Grove Shelter at Roeding Park due to a structural fire; the need for tennis programming and tournament fee relief at Roeding Park; safety and maintenance issues at Roeding Park restrooms; and the importance of accessible, transparent meeting agendas. - During Hearing 12‑A (draft grant guidelines), over 30 members of the public spoke. Many smaller/emerging organizations and individual artists urged the commission to keep the $150,000 cap for established organizations, arguing that higher caps would concentrate funds among a few large institutions and undermine equity. Speakers such as Samuel Contreras, Ashley, and Johannes Reijnders stressed that Measure P is meant to expand access, not entrench existing power structures. Conversely, representatives from larger established organizations (e.g., Fresno Art Museum, Youth Orchestras of Fresno, Arte Americas, Valley PBS) requested raising the cap to $300,000, citing their substantial operational costs, infrastructure, and community impact. Several speakers also advocated for no cap on fiscal sponsorship, clearer definitions of diversity, and better outreach to underserved communities. - During Hearing 12‑B (EAAC program input), one speaker reiterated the need to fund grassroots organizations directly rather than through large intermediaries. - During Hearing 12‑C (Measure P allocations, parks master plan, budget), two speakers highlighted urgent restroom safety and maintenance issues at Roeding Park and requested a dedicated presentation at the June PRAC meeting. Discussion Items - Workshop 10‑A (EAAC Program Update): Program Manager Gaytan reported on cycle two technical assistance (45 attendees) and the timeline for cycle three, emphasizing the June 30, 2026 legal deadline for releasing the notice of funding opportunity. Discussion included website development and communication improvements. - Discussion 11‑A (Draft Grant Guidelines): Assistant Director MacNab led a page‑by‑page review of the 26‑page draft, which had incorporated 760 total public comments from three listening sessions (83 attendees) and online portals. Key debates centered on: Award partial‑funding options: The commission selected Option 2 (scaled awards: 100% for scores 95‑100, 95% for 90‑94, 90% for 85‑89, 85% for 80‑84, 80% for 75‑79, and allowing awards below 75% when funds remain). Maximum funding caps: The proposed cap of $150,000 for both project and general operating support sparked lengthy discussion. Commissioners initially leaned toward keeping $150,000, but after public testimony, the final motion maintained the $150,000 cap. Fiscal sponsorship: Staff removed a proposed cap of five sponsored organizations per sponsor after many commenters argued it would limit access. The commission also discussed requiring fiscal sponsors to mentor toward nonprofit status. Eligibility for operating support: Legal review was pending on whether organizations must be arts‑specific to serve as fiscal sponsors. Application Review Committee (ARC): Proposed composition (30 members, diverse backgrounds, paid $500 stipend), public scoring meetings, and conflict‑of‑interest procedures were outlined. - Discussion 11‑B (ARC Handbook): MacNab reviewed the handbook, which details reviewer roles, training, scoring rubrics, and the appeals process. No changes were requested. Key Outcomes - Motion to recommend the Cycle Three Draft Grant Guidelines as amended (with Option 2 partial awards, $150,000 cap, and other modifications discussed) to City Council for consideration and adoption. Passed 6‑1 (Aye: McCoy, Ward, Barraza, Dohlin, Kucharski, Miller; No: Caglia; Absent: Duran). - A special meeting was set for May 26, 2026 to hear the FY27 budget presentation and address any remaining guideline questions before the June 18 council deadline. - The commission noted that appeals may come before PRAC; legal clarification was requested on whether appeals can be escalated to city council. - Meeting adjourned at 10:45 PM in memory of Dr. Francine Oputa.

This special meeting, as captured in the transcript, included a detailed presentation of the Mayor's proposed Fiscal Year 2027 budget, councilmember questions and discussion, public testimony, and a closed session for a City Clerk appointment. Note: The official agenda and minutes record this meeting as a special session on May 14, 2026, solely for the closed session; the transcript includes significant open-session proceedings not reflected in those documents, indicating a discrepancy. Consent Calendar - The meeting agenda was approved on a motion by Vice President Maxwell, seconded by Councilmember Vang, with a 6-0 vote (Councilmember Arias absent). Public Comments & Testimony - Several speakers opposed the HART (Homeless Assistance Resource Team) policing approach, including Brandy N., Ariana, Bob Nikolski (Fresno Community Alliance and Fresno Homeless Union), Alfred, Enrique Little, and Dez Martinez. They argued that enforcement is costly and ineffective, calling for housing-first strategies and redirection of police funding to community services. Specific criticisms included the cost of encampment sweeps ($3,000 per cycle), low clearance rates for non-violent crimes, abuse allegations, and the inefficiency of the camping ordinance. - David Bertardi spoke in support of a second HART team, stating that many unhoused individuals refuse services and that enforcement is necessary. Discussion Items - Mayor's FY27 Budget Presentation: The Mayor presented a balanced $2.55 billion budget. The general fund is $541.8 million, with police funding at $263.7 million (48.6% of general fund) and fire at $107.6 million (19.9%). An initial $34.5 million deficit was closed through: $10.7 million from FY26 carryover adjustments, $7.5 million from denied department requests, $7.3 million from shifting expenses to grants and special revenues, $5.9 million from a higher sales tax projection (2.8% increase), $1.4 million from contract cleanup, $1.16 million from department efficiency cuts (5% reduction exercise), and $581,000 from additional attrition savings. Revenue projections include property tax (+5.94%), sales tax (+2.8%), business license tax (+3.76%), and room tax (+6.9%). Cannabis tax is budgeted at $3.3 million (down slightly). Highlights: $140 million for roads and sidewalks, $2.65 million for two fire drill schools training 40 firefighters, $1.5 million for eviction protection, $1 million for residential infill housing, $949,000 for airport noise study and $2.3 million for noise mitigation, $300,000 for Advanced Peace, $225,000 for spay/neuter, $100,000 for 250th celebration, $500,000 for power washing/trash removal in Tower District and Downtown, $553,000 to restore a 10-year tree trimming cycle, $21 million carryover for regional fire training facility, $945,000 for Veterans Memorial Auditorium, and $300,000 per council district for discretionary projects. Public safety includes adding one sergeant and four officers to HART (total sworn to 935), absorbing 24 SAFER grant firefighters into the general fund ($2.97 million), $660,000 for turnouts, $200,000 for fire station capital improvements. Attrition rates: police 6.18%, fire 0.81% (admin only). - Councilmember Questions: - Vice President Maxwell: Discussed the structural imbalance between revenue growth and expenditure increases, the impact of the Attorney General's blackjack ban (budgeted $400,000 reduction), cannabis revenue (16 of 20 permits open), Measure P ($49.5 million new revenue, $68 million carryover), the wage theft grant status (unmaterialized), eviction protection using local housing trust fund (no income criteria), debt service ($13.1 million), and police effective staffing (estimated 875–890 sworn after vacancies and long-term leave). He praised the budget and foresaw fewer amendments. - Councilmember Karbassi: Emphasized the need for revenue growth and criticized obstacles to development (e.g., opposition to Southeast Development Area). He thanked for investments in Pine Dale Community Center, roads (Herndon, Shaw), and San Joaquin River access, and planned to request information on fire special teams. - Councilmember Vang: Sought clarification on police staffing (935 sworn, 399 non-sworn). He noted the Pave More Now program's tangible impact in his district and planned a motion to reimburse businesses affected by the Kings Canyon/Ventura/California street name change (previously $1 million allocated, only $77 claimed). - Councilmember Perea: Asked about cost to expand ministerial permitting for housing, tree trimming 10-year cycle ($3.35 million), speed limit signs, nonprofit funding (e.g., Marjorie Mason Center via HHAP), eviction protection spending ($1.5 million, 160 referrals), cannabis benefit fund ($330,000 generated, $300,000 for Advanced Peace), spay/neuter totals (4,000 internal, 1,800 external), and homeless service levels (mobile showers, warming/cooling centers maintained). - Council President Esparza: Addressed the retail theft grant (25 officers, expiring FY27) and potential conversion to traffic officers to enhance revenue and safety, debt service roll-offs, and fire drill school sustainability. Key Outcomes - The budget presentation was informational; no vote occurred. Budget hearings begin June 8, with final adoption scheduled for June 23. - Councilmembers indicated they will propose budget motions (e.g., street name change reimbursement, increased spay/neuter, Veterans Memorial funding). - The council entered closed session at 11:02 AM to discuss the appointment of a City Clerk (Government Code Section 54957(b)). No announcements were made upon return; the meeting adjourned from closed session at 11:37 AM. - Official records list only the closed session, but the transcript includes extensive open-session proceedings, creating a discrepancy.