Public Meetings - Merced, California

The Merced City Council met on Monday, August 18, 2025, at 6:04 PM following a closed session that began at 5:05 PM. All seven council members were present. The meeting included a proclamation, public comments, consent calendar with one item pulled, action items on a liquor license and a polling contract, and appointments to multiple commissions. Key decisions included approval of a School Resource Officer MOU (6-1), a $53,250 community survey contract (6-1), and referral of a medical transport estimate ordinance to the Public Safety Subcommittee. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (7-0) the consent calendar including: reading by title of ordinances/resolutions, approval of an amendment to the Standard Software Maintenance Agreement with Tyler Technologies for public safety software (five-year, not-to-exceed $1,237,782.16), and second reading/final adoption of Ordinance 2580 extending the refund time for water/sewer line payments to UC Merced. - Item I.2 – Memorandum of Understanding with Merced Union High School District for four School Resource Officers for three years was pulled by Council Member Xiong, who opposed. The item passed 6-1, with Xiong voting no. Public Comments & Testimony - Ravi Taggar (Fastest Lab) introduced his new testing facility and expressed support for local workforce services. - Michael Morin (MCM Plumbing) criticized Public Works for installing equipment without permits or licensing, arguing the city applies rules selectively and undermining licensed contractors. He requested an audit and public findings. - Levonne Phillips (Merced) raised safety concerns near her church on Matha Road, citing lack of streetlights and sidewalks, three break-ins, and elderly members unable to attend at night. She asked the city to install sidewalks and lights. - Youth United (via video) thanked the city for improvements at Flanagan Park, including new lighting, drinking fountains, and basketball hoops. - Chris Jensen (Parks and Community Services) announced the third annual Gateway to Yosemite 5K/10K run to raise funds for an all-inclusive playground at General Bangpal Park. Discussion Items - Land Use Determination 25-03 – Valley Public House (J.1): Assistant Planner Matt Livingston presented a request for a Finding of Public Convenience or Necessity for a Type 42 alcohol license for a new bar at 521 W. Main Street. The area has a high concentration of incidents (94 disturbances, 12 assaults, 3 public intoxications, 2 narcotics, 47 municipal code violations within 500 feet over the past year). Police Captain Perez noted most calls are traffic-related and not directly relevant. The applicant Sair Lara described an Irish-style pub with a food truck. The council approved unanimously. - Supplemental Appropriation for Community Survey (J.2): City Manager Scott McBride presented a $53,250 contract with Lew Edwards Group to conduct a community assessment and poll of 400 likely voters to gauge interest in potential revenue measures for the 2026 ballot. Council Member Xiong opposed, stating he prefers direct constituent input and citing community reluctance toward new taxes. Council Member Smith argued the poll provides scientific data on funding instruments. Approved 6-1. - Ordinance on Non-Emergent Medical Transport Estimates (K.1): Council Member Harris described a constituent who received a $7,300 bill for a 61-mile non-emergency transport. He proposed requiring estimates for patients. City Attorney Cornwell raised preemption concerns; Fire Chief Wilson noted complexity of interfacility transfers. Council Member DeAnda opposed government regulation of private business. The council voted 6-1 (DeAnda no) to refer the issue to the Public Safety Subcommittee for further study and return with options. Key Outcomes - School Resource Officer MOU (I.2): Approved 6-1 (Xiong no). - Valley Public House liquor license (J.1): Approved 7-0. - Lew Edwards Group contract (J.2): Approved 6-1 (Xiong no). - Medical transport ordinance referral (K.1): Approved 6-1 (DeAnda no) to Public Safety Subcommittee. - Appointments: - Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Commission: Dina Gonzalez (Dist. 2), Arturo Martinez (Dist. 6), Craig Harmelin (Ex-Officio) – all unanimous. - Recreation and Parks Commission: Dina Gonzalez (Dist. 2), Marisa Lewis (At-Large) – both unanimous. - Tax Transparency Commission: Felipe Flores (Dist. 2) unanimous; Harpreet Takhar (Dist. 6) approved 6-1 (Xiong no); motion to appoint Latanya Richard failed for lack of second. - Citizen Advisory Focus Group: Keith Ensminger (Dist. 2) unanimous. - Future agenda: Council Member Harris’s request to discuss changing the Traffic Committee to a commission with council appointments was placed on the October 6, 2025 agenda. - Closed session report: Council agreed to a five-year extension for Finance Officer Venus Rodriguez, to be formalized later. Council Member Dupont recused from one real property negotiation item.

The Tax Transparency Commission met on August 13, 2025, at 6:05 PM in the City Council Chamber. The Commission reviewed and unanimously accepted revenue and expense reports for Measure C (sales tax) and Measure Y (cannabis tax) as of June 30, 2025, and received informational updates on the Safe Streets LED streetlight replacement project and road pavement projects. No public comments were made. The Consent Calendar item (approval of May 14, 2025 minutes) was not discussed or acted upon during the meeting. Discussion Items - Measure C Revenue and Expense Report (June 30, 2025): Staff presented the Measure C (sales tax) report. For fiscal year 2024-25, the budget was $9.1 million, first-quarter actual revenue was $2.1 million (23.8% of quarterly budget), representing a 0.41% increase ($9,500) over the same quarter last year. Major industry groups showed increases in restaurants/hotels, building/construction, autos/transportation, and state/county pools, while decreases were seen in general consumer goods, fuel/service stations, business/industry, and food/drugs. Commissioners asked about closures and the ability to track specific business impacts; staff explained detailed reports are available but cannot disclose individual business data due to confidentiality. The Commission voted unanimously to accept the report. - Measure Y Revenue and Expense Report (June 30, 2025): For Measure Y (cannabis tax), fiscal year 2024-25 actual revenue was $1.6 million, $10,000 above budget. The budget for 2025-26 is $1.6 million, a 1.3% increase. Second quarter 2025 revenue was $42,000 (10%) lower than the same quarter in 2024. Staff and a representative from the Police Department (who provided additional context) discussed the cannabis market: retail sales are capped at five permits, with four currently operational; the fifth permit has been issued but not yet opened. Non-retail cannabis businesses (manufacturing, distribution) are not capped and could grow. Competition has increased as nearby cities have opened their own dispensaries. The Commission voted unanimously to accept the report. - Update on the Safe Streets Project: Rick Maddox from Engineering provided an update. The project replaces high-pressure sodium streetlights with LED lights, improving brightness, longevity, and energy savings. The contract was awarded in August 2024 for over $1 million, originally covering 2,500 lights. To date, 1,700 lights have been replaced, and a change order added 852 more, totaling 3,352 lights under contract. The project is scheduled for completion by October 2025. It uses Measure C funds along with funding from maintenance districts and community facility districts. Priorities include main thoroughfares (Olive, G, M, R Streets). This item was for information only; no motion was required. - Update on Road Pavement Projects: Rick Maddox and a Police Department representative (name not provided) presented an overview. Major projects under construction: Yosemite Avenue (G Street to Parsons) – $5.8 million project including full road reconstruction, sewer main replacement, and soil stabilization; expected completion first week of October 2025. Main Street One-Way Project (MLK to O Street) – recently completed, created one-way traffic with diagonal parking and a road diet to meet Caltrans requirements for Highway 59 widening. Police reported positive safety outcomes and increased downtown parking ease. In design: R Street projects (Northwood to Olive, and 16th to 18th Streets), expected to go to bid by end of 2025. Regional long-term projects: McKee Road grind and overlay (with county), Highway 59 widening to four lanes and bridge replacement (estimated $20-30 million funding shortfall, not near-term), and Mission Avenue widening (further out, environmental review underway). Staff noted significant funding challenges for major road projects and reliance on competitive Measure V funds. This item was informational; no motion was taken. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: The agenda included approval of the May 14, 2025 minutes, but this item was not discussed or voted on during the meeting. - Action Item F.1: Motion to accept the Measure C report passed unanimously (Commissioners: Garcia, Johnson, Murphy, Kastecki). - Action Item F.2: Motion to accept the Measure Y report passed unanimously. - No motions were taken on reports G.1 and G.2. - Business H.1: Request to add items to future agenda – no items were requested. - Business H.2: Commission comments – no comments were made. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned by unanimous vote.

On August 6, 2025, the Merced Planning Commission convened at 6:00 PM in the City Council Chamber. All seven commissioners were present, establishing a quorum. The meeting included a consent calendar, a public hearing for a conditional use permit for a second food truck, an action to cancel two upcoming meetings, an informational report from staff, and the election of officers. Consent Calendar - Minutes of July 23, 2025 (Item D.1): Adopted unanimously without separate discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the general public comment period, and no speaker cards were submitted for items on the agenda. Public Hearing: Conditional Use Permit 25-0013 (Second Food Truck at 1122 R Street) - Staff Presentation: Planning staff presented the request to operate a second mobile food vendor within the parking lot of California Liquor & Grocery. The proposed location is near the southwest portion of the parcel, adjacent to an existing permitted food truck. Conditions include trash receptacles, hours of operation (7 a.m. to 9 p.m.), no alcohol sales, and restroom access inside the store. - Commission Discussion: Commissioner Greggins asked about an unpermitted food truck visible in the site photo. Staff confirmed that truck is not currently permitted and would need to be moved to the proposed location. The applicant’s representative, Magdalena Garcia, stated that the existing tortilla truck is the same one seeking the permit, and they are now pursuing proper approvals. Commissioner Greggins also requested a future analysis of food truck concentrations in the city; staff agreed to prepare a report. - Public Testimony: Only the applicant’s representative spoke, clarifying that the business sells only pre-made tortillas and operates on a quick grab-and-go basis. No opposition speakers came forward. - Motion and Vote: Commissioner Greggins moved to approve Environmental Review 25-0019 (Categorical Exemption) and Conditional Use Permit 25-0013, subject to 33 conditions. Commissioner Ochoa seconded. The motion passed unanimously. Action Item: Cancellation of August 20 and September 3, 2025 Meetings (Item F.1) - Commissioner Wu moved to cancel the meetings due to a lack of agenda items; Commissioner Swiggard seconded. The motion passed unanimously. Information Item: Report by Acting Planning Manager (Item G.1) - Acting Planning Manager Johnny Land reported that the September 17, 2025 meeting will include a tentative subdivision map, another conditional use permit, and a general plan amendment. He also noted that the General Plan and Downtown Station Area Plan community engagement meetings have been successful, and the first Citizens Advisory Focus Group (CAFG) meeting will take place on August 27, 2025 (6–8 p.m.). Business: Election of Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson (Item H.1) - Commissioner Tau moved to re-elect Chairperson Gonzalez and appoint Commissioner Greggins as Vice-Chairperson. Commissioner Vu seconded. The motion passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar Minutes: Approved unanimously. - Conditional Use Permit 25-0013: Approved with 33 conditions (unanimous). - Meeting Cancellations: Approved for August 20 and September 3, 2025 (unanimous). - Officer Elections: Chairperson Gonzalez and Vice-Chairperson Greggins elected (unanimous).

The Merced City Council met on Monday, August 4, 2025, at 6:01 PM in the City Council Chamber. The meeting included special presentations, ceremonial matters, public comments, consent calendar items, action items, and business discussions. The meeting adjourned at 8:48 PM. All seven council members were present, with Council Member Smith arriving at 6:21 PM. Consent Calendar - The Consent Calendar was approved with a 7-0 vote, except for items G.8, G.9, and G.11 which were pulled for separate consideration. - Items approved on consent included: reading of ordinances (G.1), information-only contracts (G.2), approval of April 7, 2025 meeting minutes (G.3), purchase of an Asphalt Zipper for $237,955.15 (G.4), additional contingency of $185,910 for streetlight retrofit (G.5), subscription-based software agreement with DebtBook for $49,500 over three years (G.6), legal service agreement for bond counsel with Jones Hall LLP (G.7), and first reading of an ordinance extending refund time for water and sewer lines to UC Merced (G.10). Public Comments & Testimony - Necola Adams, Merced resident, presented the Merced County Nut Festival (October 18, 2025, free event) and highlighted its community and economic benefits. - Karthik Prasad, representative of Congressman Adam Gray, provided updates from Washington D.C., including the Congressman's bill to restore Medicaid funding and the STRIVE Act for veterans. He announced the new district office at 602 West 20th Street, Merced. - Curtis Thomas, Merced resident, presented a slideshow on the city’s budget, arguing that a value-per-acre analysis shows some properties (e.g., storage units and the mall) generate net losses for the city, while certain mixed-use developments yield net positives. He expressed concern about urban sprawl. - Chief of Police Steven Stanfield announced the recovery of the stolen Applegate Zoo bear sign through detective work and presented coins to the detectives. He also mentioned that a “Welcome to Merced” sign may also have been recovered. - Patricia Pratt, Merced resident, spoke during the logo selection item (H.4), criticizing the process for undervaluing local artists and noting that photographs in logos become dated. She opposed the presented options, arguing they did not reflect council’s previous direction. - Ashley Suarez, Merced resident, spoke during the food vendor ordinance discussion (I.1), supporting accessible permitting and expressing concern that restrictions could target certain communities. During the budget discussion (I.2), she emphasized the need for transparency and community input, opposing a biennial cycle due to reduced oversight. - Curtis Thomas also spoke during I.1, supporting street vendors for providing accessible food options in car-dependent neighborhoods. During I.2, he opposed moving to a two-year budget cycle, arguing it would weaken accountability and exclude unforeseen community needs. Discussion Items - Fire Department Presentation (C.1): Fire Chief Casey Wilson reported on Independence Day enforcement. From June 1 to July 5, the Merced Police Department received 463 fireworks-related calls. A total of 31 administrative citations were issued; police wrote 14. On July 4, the Fire Department responded to 61 calls, including 26 fires (up from 14 in 2024) and one non-fireworks-related structure fire. There was a 100% drawdown of resources multiple times, but no major injuries. The department used a dedicated phone line and GIS data to focus enforcement. - Police Service MOUs (G.8, G.9): Council Member Xiong opposed the MOUs with Merced City School District and Merced Community College District, arguing police should focus on city work and schools should provide their own security. The motions were approved 6-1 (Xiong voting no) for both. - Rezone 5 Acres (G.11): Council Member Smith recused himself (applicant was a client). Council Member Xiong requested separate consideration and voted no. The ordinance rezoning approximately 5.0 acres from Neighborhood Commercial to Low Density Residential was approved 5-1 (Xiong no), with Smith recused. - Helicopter Helmets Grant (H.1): Police Lieutenant Kalvin Haygood presented a request to accept $14,344 from the FY2023 State Homeland Security Grant Program to purchase three helicopter helmets for tactical flight officers supporting the county helicopter. The motion approved 6-1 (Xiong no). - Santa Fe Strip Park Sidewalk (H.2): Senior Engineer Richard Maddox described the project (replace a 5-foot sidewalk with an 8-foot path, add a speed table) for $519,879.33. The contract was awarded to Juarez Brothers General Engineering, Inc. The motion passed 7-0. - T-Ball Clinic Grant (H.3): Director Chris Jensen presented a $1,000 grant from First 5 Merced County for free baseball clinics. The motion passed 7-0. - General Plan Logo Selection (H.4): Acting Planning Manager Jonnie Lan presented six logo options developed by the Arts and Culture Advisory Commission (subcommittee member Glenn Camarda donated his time). Council approved Options 2 (colorized with photos) and 3 (small icon) in a 6-1 vote (Xiong no). Council also directed staff to contract with Camarda for ownership of the images. - Food Vendor Ordinance (I.1): Mayor Serratto introduced the item, noting the current ordinance (2021) needs updating to address health/safety, use of public property, and fairness to brick-and-mortar businesses. City Attorney Craig Cornwell will draft an ordinance within 60 days, focusing on time, place, and manner restrictions, impoundment procedures, sidewalk clearance, and permitting. Council members emphasized health/safety and accessibility. Chief Stanfield cited frequent health-related complaints, including improper food storage and cooking on dirt lots. - Budget Cycle and Town Halls (I.2): Council Member Smith proposed exploring a two-year planning cycle within the annual budget adoption required by charter. Finance Officer Venus Rodriguez explained this could ease staff workload. Council consensus: do not move to a biennial budget, but allow staff flexibility for long-range planning. Rodriguez will present a proposal at the September 15 Council meeting. For town halls and Goals & Priorities: Council agreed to keep town halls in January/February (with earlier date-setting) and to have the City Manager present a draft of priorities in January, followed by town halls, then a strategic planning session focused on budget. Council also requested that prior year Goals & Priorities progress be reported alongside the new draft. Key Outcomes - Police Service MOUs (G.8, G.9): Approved 6-1 (Xiong no). - Rezone Ordinance (G.11): Approved 5-1 (Xiong no), Smith recused. - Helicopter Helmets Grant (H.1): Approved 6-1 (Xiong no). - Santa Fe Strip Park Contract (H.2): Approved 7-0. - T-Ball Grant (H.3): Approved 7-0. - General Plan Logo (H.4): Options 2 and 3 approved 6-1 (Xiong no). - Food Vendor Ordinance: City Attorney to present a draft within 60 days (by early October 2025). - Budget Process: Council directed Finance Officer Venus Rodriguez to present a proposal for a two-year planning cycle at the September 15, 2025 Council meeting. Town halls will remain in January/February, with dates set earlier. Goals & Priorities process: City Manager to provide a draft in January, followed by town halls, then a budget-focused strategic planning session.

The Merced Planning Commission met on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the City Council Chamber. The commission considered two public hearing items: a conditional use permit for a fitness center operated by Students With Aspiring Goals (SWAG) at 2241 Cessna Way, and a combined conditional use permit and restaurant encroachment permit for a bar and food truck at 521 West Main Street (Valley Public House). Both items were approved, the first unanimously and the second by a 5–2 vote. The meeting also included approval of the consent calendar and a report on upcoming agenda items. Consent Calendar - Minutes of July 9, 2025: Approved and filed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Oral Communications (non-agenda): None. - Public Hearing E1 (Fitness Center): No public comments. - Public Hearing E2 (Bar and Food Truck): - EJ Lorenzi (opposition): Expressed concerns about parking availability in the downtown area, particularly the impact of the food truck on limited parking spaces, and noted that similar operations (Tioga and Sequoia) limit their food truck hours. He suggested that the food truck hours should be more restrictive. - Michael Gomez (support): Stated strong support for the project, citing alignment with downtown revitalization and noting that parking issues are a sign of a healthy downtown. - Gloria Valdovinos, Executive Director, Downtown Merced Partnership: Expressed support for the bar but voiced concern about a rotating food truck potentially competing with brick-and-mortar restaurants, suggesting a more permanent complementary food vendor. Discussion Items Public Hearing Item E1: Conditional Use Permit 25-0010 – Fitness Center (SWAG) at 2241 Cessna Way - Staff Presentation (Matt Livingston, Assistant Planner): The proposal involves converting a 4,950-square-foot industrial building into a fitness center for private training of high school and younger athletes. The site has a General Plan designation of Industrial and zoning of Light Industrial (I-L). Parking: 14 spaces provided vs. 16 required; staff recommends a parking reduction based on low demand (appointment-based operation). The applicant must submit a parking demand study to the Director of Development Services. Conditions include fire alarm monitoring and signage compliance. Staff recommended approval with 28 conditions. - Applicant (Devon Hilliard, founder of SWAG): Stated that the new facility will focus on one-on-one training (baseball, soccer, football) without weights, complementing their existing adjacent fitness facility. They will close their Atwater location and move operations to Merced, citing a contract with Merced City School District. - Commission Discussion: Commissioners expressed enthusiasm for the program, noting its positive impact on youth. A motion to approve the categorical exemption and conditional use permit with conditions was made and seconded, then passed unanimously. Public Hearing Item E2: Conditional Use Permit 25-0011 and Restaurant Encroachment Permit 25-0001 – Bar and Food Truck at 521 West Main Street - Staff Presentation (Matt Livingston): The applicant, Sair Lara, requests to operate a bar (beer and wine only, type 42 AVC license) with a front patio and a food truck in the private parking lot behind the building. The bar is 650 sq ft, located in the Central Commercial (C-C) zone, within the downtown parking district (exempt from parking requirements). Hours: Thursday–Saturday 12:30 PM–1 AM; Sunday–Wednesday 12:30 PM–11 PM. Food truck allowed 9 AM–11 PM Thursday–Saturday, 9 AM–10 PM other days. Police crime analysis showed 3 public intoxication, 106 disturbances/assaults, 47 code violations, 2 narcotics violations within 500 ft in past year; police department had no objection. Conditions include: public convenience or necessity approval from City Council, no adult entertainment, noise control, patio fence, and police chief can reduce hours if excessive complaints. Staff recommended approval with 41 conditions. - Applicant (Sair Lara): Described the Valley Public House as a passion project to bring a sports-bar atmosphere downtown, featuring Valley breweries. He plans to employ 7–9 people at $20/hour plus tips. The food truck will be operated by licensed vendors, not taking public parking (private spot). He noted that adding life to that block will deter crime. - Commission Discussion: - Commissioner Ochoa supported the project, noting that parking enforcement is a city responsibility. - Commissioner Swigger expressed concerns about the food truck location (secluded, lighting, extending hours past other restaurant closings) and potential parking conflicts for loft tenants. - Commissioner Greggens supported the project as aligning with downtown goals and appreciated that the applicant went through proper channels. - The Chair noted the city is actively addressing downtown parking. - Vote: Motion to approve (Ochoa, seconded by Greggens) carried 5–2. Information Items - Report on Upcoming Agenda Items (Francisco Mendoza, Acting Planning Manager): - August 6, 2025: Conditional use permit for a second mobile food vendor at 1122 R Street (market with existing food truck). - September 17, 2025: Tentative subdivision map for 17 residential lots on 3.5 acres at 2250 Childs Avenue (Southeast Merced, zoning R-15, minimum 5,000 sq ft lots). Key Outcomes - Approved (Unanimous): Environmental Review 25-0014 and Conditional Use Permit 25-0010 for the fitness center at 2241 Cessna Way, subject to 28 conditions and a parking reduction contingent on a parking demand study. - Approved (5–2): Environmental Review 25-0018, Conditional Use Permit 25-0011, and Restaurant Encroachment Permit 25-0001 for the bar and food truck at 521 West Main Street, subject to 41 conditions. The approval includes a range of food truck hours (9 AM–11 PM Thursday–Saturday; 9 AM–10 PM other days) and allows the police chief to reduce hours if excessive noise or disturbances occur. - Adjournment: Meeting adjourned in memory of Jose Delgadillo, who served on the Planning Commission for six years.

The Merced City Council met on Monday, July 21, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chamber. The meeting included a closed session (5:00-5:49 PM), ceremonial recognition of Merced High School track and field champions, public comments, a consent calendar, two public hearings, six action items, a fire services report, and four business discussions. The council approved a $200,000 private donation for a third zookeeper, authorized a joint grant application for a veterans container home project, upheld the Planning Commission's approval of a 55-foot stealth cell tower at Rahilly Park, and directed staff to develop an anti-slumlord ordinance focused on chronic offenders. Consent Calendar - Items approved en bloc (7-0): Reading of ordinances/resolutions waived; Valley Children’s Hospital grant deed modification; 2025 salary table for CalPERS compliance; 5-year Samsara GPS/telematics agreement ($112,578); 3-year ESO Solutions records management renewal ($36,130.94); 2025-2027 Master Tow Service Agreement; two Provost & Pritchard agreements for PCE groundwater cleanup ($240,000) and reporting ($42,000); rejection of all bids for IT generator replacement due to insufficient funding. - Item I.9 (Yosemite Lake Village annexation amendment) and I.10 (Crossing at River Oaks Phase 8 final map) were pulled for separate consideration. Councilmember Smith recused himself from both. Both items were approved on separate 6-0 votes (Smith recused). Public Comments & Testimony - Aggie Freeman (Merced) – Announced the 16th annual Back to School Clothes for Kids event on August 23 at Target, inviting council to participate. - Dennis Taylor (Merced) – Requested additional signage for red-light cameras at 16th and R Streets to improve visibility and prevent violations. - Colton Dennis (Merced) – Invited the community to the Merced County Arts Council’s annual showcase and meeting on July 24 at the Multicultural Arts Center. - Mary Lou Torres (Merced) – Asked for stop signs on 12th Street at G Street due to speeding and poor visibility from parked vehicles, citing safety concerns. - Karthik Prasad (Rep. for Congressman Adam Gray) – Provided a federal legislative update, including the Dignity Act, Livestock Indemnity Program Improvement Act, PFAS Alternatives Act, and other bills. - Public Hearing J.2 (cell tower appeal): Seven speakers opposed the tower (Brenda Morgun, Julie Horal, Anna Collins, Aurora Martinez, Izmael Mendoza) citing visual blight, property value decline, crime, and environmental concerns. Carl Jones (AT&T applicant) supported the project, emphasizing improved coverage for residents and first responders. - Public Hearing J.1: No public comments were made. Public Hearings - J.1 – General Plan Amendment & Zone Change (Crossing at River Oaks) – Acting Principal Planner Francisco Mendoza presented a cleanup item to rezone a 5-acre portion from Neighborhood Commercial to Low Density Residential to correct a 20-year oversight. The site already contains 27 single-family lots built under a 2004 subdivision approval. Council approved the change 5-1 (Council Member Xiong opposed; Council Member Smith recused). - J.2 – Appeal of Planning Commission Approval for 55-Foot Stealth Cell Tower at Rahilly Park – The appellant, Brenda Morgun, argued the tower would harm the park’s aesthetics, property values, and wildlife. AT&T representative Carl Jones stated the tower was needed to fill a coverage gap, including for first responders. Council discussed legal constraints (federal law prevents denial based on health concerns) and upheld the Planning Commission’s approval 6-1 (Council Member Xiong opposed), denying the appeal. Discussion Items - K.1 – $200,000 Private Donation for Third Zookeeper at Applegate Zoo – Parks Director Christopher Jensen reported the donation will fund a zookeeper position for three years. Council approved 7-0, reallocating $65,085 from the General Fund to ballfield maintenance. - K.2 – Airport Remediation Site Additional Drilling ($15,000) – Approved 7-0 to install additional monitoring wells as required by the Regional Water Quality Control Board. - K.3 – Reserve Annexation (Gardner Ranch) – First Amendment to Agreements – Approved 6-0 (Council Member Dupont recused) to increase the Dudek environmental contract by $58,290 and the deposit/reimbursement agreement by $64,119. - K.4 – Old Dominion Annexation – Professional Services & Deposit Agreement – Approved 7-0 for De Novo Planning Group environmental services ($362,304) and a deposit/reimbursement agreement with The Dominion Village ($398,534.40). - K.5 – Joint Grant Application for Veterans Container Home Project – Approved 7-0 to submit a $150,000 matching grant application to the Central Valley Opportunity Fund for the 73 South R Street affordable veterans container home project. The city will act as fiscal agent. - K.6 – Land Use Determination for Una Mas Taproom (Type 40 ABC License) – Approved 7-0, finding public convenience or necessity for on- and off-site beer sales at 420 West Main Street. The applicant plans a full interior/exterior renovation. - L.1 – Stop Gap Aid Agreement Update – Interim Fire Chief Casey Wilson reported 227 incidents responded to in the first six months of the agreement with Merced County (158 EMS, 15 fires). Average response time increased by 15 seconds (to 5:34 at 90th percentile). County Supervisor Josh Pedrozo thanked the council for collaboration. Discussion focused on costs, CAD-to-CAD integration, and staffing. No formal vote; item was informational. - M.1 – Anti-Slumlord Ordinance Discussion – City Attorney Craig Cornwell proposed a framework targeting chronic offenders (e.g., 3+ violations in 12-24 months) with enhanced penalties, a public list, and potential tenant disclosure requirements. Council expressed general support for focusing on bad actors and asked staff to return with a draft in 60 days. Ashley Suarez (policy advocate) advocated for a rental registry and inspection program instead. - M.2 – Blighted Property Enforcement – Council Member Harris discussed existing tools under Municipal Code Chapter 8.40 (nuisance abatement, liens). Council agreed current tools are sufficient but should be used more aggressively; no new ordinance needed at this time. Erick Serrato (Downtown Association) supported enforcement. - M.3 – Potential Ballot Measure for 2026 General Election – Mayor Serratto and Council Member Smith reported subcommittee discussions on a possible infrastructure bond or sales tax measure. Council directed staff to obtain a consultant proposal for polling and return to the subcommittee. - M.4 – Future Agenda Requests – Council Member Smith requested a gray water recapture discussion for the Utility Subcommittee. Council Member Harris requested an ordinance requiring estimates for non-emergency ambulance transport; expedited to August 18 (approved 5-1, Council Member Dupont opposed). Mayor Serratto requested a discussion on annexing county islands; staff to bring an informational item on September 2. Key Outcomes - Votes and Decisions: - Consent Calendar items approved (I.1-I.8) en bloc 7-0; I.9 and I.10 approved 6-0 (Smith recused). - General Plan Amendment/Zone Change (J.1) approved 5-1 (Xiong no; Smith recused). - Cell tower appeal (J.2) denied (upholding Planning Commission) 6-1 (Xiong no). - All action items (K.1-K.6) approved unanimously (K.3 with Dupont recused; all required 5 votes, all passed 7-0 or 6-0). - Directives: - Staff to draft an anti-slumlord ordinance focusing on chronic offenders, with enhanced penalties and tenant protections, to be presented in 60 days. - Staff to pursue polling and consultant proposals for a 2026 ballot measure; subcommittee to continue. - Staff to prepare an informational report on county island annexations for September 2. - Ordinance requiring estimates for non-emergency ambulance transport to be drafted for August 18. - Notable: Council Member Smith recused from items I.9, I.10, and J.1 due to a client relationship. Council Member Dupont recused from item K.3 for the same reason. Council Member DeAnda left the meeting at 9:01 PM and missed later votes. The meeting adjourned at 10:12 PM.

The Arts and Culture Advisory Commission met at 4:00 PM in the City Council Chamber, Merced Civic Center, on Thursday, July 17, 2025. The commission unanimously approved an outreach plan for $75,000 in 2025/26 City Council-directed public art funding, received detailed status updates on several public art projects, and accepted requests for future agenda items. Public Comments & Testimony - The clerk reported that no public comment was received by the 1:00 PM deadline, and no members of the public were present. Action Item: Community Outreach Plan for 2025/26 Public Art Funding (E.1) - Staff presented a proposed 30-day community outreach plan developed by the Future Arts Project Subcommittee to collect resident input on how to allocate $75,000 in 2025/26 public art funding. - The plan includes an Engage page (engage.cityofmerced.com), social media posts and short videos/reels, commissioner outreach, and sharing through local networks. Results would be reported back to the commission in September, with project recommendations to City Council in late September or early October, followed by RFPs/RFQs. - A commissioner asked whether the commission could generate revenue from performances or partnerships. Staff explained that the commission is not a fundraising entity but offered to research collaboration options for a future agenda. - The commission voted unanimously to approve the outreach plan. Report: Status of Approved Art Projects (F.1) - Brown Bag Concert Series RFQ: Issued July 17, 2025, with submissions due August 7, 2025. A subcommittee will review submissions, and the ACAC will hold a special meeting to select three performers. Final selections go to City Council on October 6, 2025. Evening performances are scheduled November 13 and December 11, 2025, and January 8, 2026, at the newly renovated Bob Hart Square. Alcohol will not be served. Staff corrected incorrect performance dates on the original RFQ. - Downtown Arts District Logo RFQ: To be issued on or around July 24, 2025, and close August 29, 2025. The subcommittee will recommend a designer to ACAC on October 16, 2025, and ACAC will take its recommendation to City Council on November 3, 2025. The artist will create a simple, single-color logo for incorporation into standard City street signage. Public Works will fabricate and install signs along Main Street from Martin Luther King Jr. Way to O Street. - R Street/Fahrens Park Mural RFP: On hold. Staff explained that California requires muralists to hold a contractor's license for projects over $1,000 or involving scaffolding/structural work, a rule that has delayed or cancelled murals since enforcement increased in 2023. Senate Bill 456, which would exempt original fine art murals from that requirement, has passed committee votes and is pending in the Senate Appropriations Committee. Staff will resume the mural project once the bill's status is clear. - Recycled Item Sculpture at Fahrens Park RFP: To be issued August 14, 2025, and close September 30, 2025. The subcommittee will review submissions on October 16, 2025, and ACAC will make recommendations to City Council on November 3, 2025. The sculpture will repurpose discarded objects found in the park. - Utility Box Refresh Project: On hold pending a work-in-lieu partnership. Utility boxes painted in 2021 need paint and decal removal before new murals, and the work is labor intensive. Staff is coordinating with Public Works and outside partners and will provide an update at the September 2025 ACAC meeting. - In discussion, a commissioner asked about stage lighting at Bob Hart Square; staff said they would check with engineering and contractors. Another commissioner asked about electrical and amplification requirements in the Brown Bag RFQ; staff said requirements are included, electrical hookups are available, and performers bring their own equipment. Staff also directed artists to the City's website under Doing Business for bid postings and said they would publicize each RFP/RFQ. - A commissioner asked whether the arts district logo could be used on merchandise to generate revenue; staff agreed to check and follow up. Business: Requests for Future Agenda Items (G.1) - Staff agreed to research ways the commission could partner with organizations or otherwise supplement its budget and revenue. - Commissioner Glenn requested exploring a city program that incentivizes businesses to hire local artists, such as business license discounts, to help artists earn a living and obtain business licenses. Staff said they would work on the idea. - Commissioner Dennis requested a discussion about meeting frequency, including monthly or quarterly meetings, and staff agreed to research it. Another commissioner supported monthly meetings for consistency and stronger community engagement. Commission Comments & Community Announcements (G.2) - Commissioners disclosed that the Future Projects Subcommittee developed a logo for the City's General Plan under an urgent City Council deadline without an RFQ. Commissioner Glenn volunteered and produced sample designs in under 12 hours. The designs are to be presented to City Council. - A commissioner reported work on a California Arts Council cultural district designation and grant application due August 7, 2025, with limited funding of $5,000 per year for two years. It requires a business association, a government entity, and a nonprofit partner. - Commissioners promoted local arts events, including the Merced County Arts Council annual meeting and showcase on July 24, 2025, an Art Buffet at Cien Ojo Studios, Phoenix Creative Collective's Dearly Departed from August 9-17, and a United Way Over the Edge fundraiser. Key Outcomes - Approved the 2025/26 Community Outreach Plan for public art funding unanimously. - Staff will return in September 2025 with outreach results, project recommendations, and updates on utility box preparation, the mural licensing issue, and other project timelines. - Staff will research future agenda items on revenue partnerships, business incentives for hiring local artists, meeting frequency, Bob Hart Square lighting, and possible logo merchandise/licensing. - The commission voted unanimously to adjourn.

The Merced Planning Commission held a regular meeting on July 9, 2025, beginning at 6:00 PM in the City Council Chamber. The commission considered two public hearing items: a major residential and commercial development proposal (up to 570 homes and 9 acres of commercial space) and a request for a 48-foot-tall shopping center sign with a digital screen. Both items received unanimous approval with conditions. Consent Calendar - Planning Commission Minutes of June 4, 2025 – Approved and filed unanimously (7-0). Public Comments & Testimony Item E1 – Gateway Residential Development: - Sarah Noster (San Castle subdivision resident) opposed the general plan amendment, citing loss of commercial land and safety concerns about on-street parking near a 55 mph road. She requested the entire area remain zoned for business park and manufacturing/industrial uses. - Timothy Jones (property owner, Merced Gateway LLC) spoke in favor, noting that after 17–18 years of marketing, no business park development materialized. He expressed confidence in Lennar Homes to deliver the project and noted that residential development would drive demand for commercial uses. - Eric Plyme (adjacent landowner, Gateway Marketplace) supported the project, stating that rooftops are needed to attract retail tenants. He requested that a cost‑share condition (already in Condition 22) be moved from findings to conditions of approval to make it binding. Staff clarified the condition already existed. - Anthony DeMello (project engineer) confirmed that the roads on the south portion (Welton product) are city standard residential streets, not narrow pocket streets like those in Moraga, and that the development will tie into the existing bike path along Campus Parkway. - A veteran from the audience (first-time attendee) expressed general support for development but asked for guidance on how to get involved in the process. Item E2 – Shopping Center Sign: - No members of the public spoke. The applicant (Marco Ospina) and property manager (Max Whitley) answered commissioner questions about brightness, road closures, and technical controls. Discussion Items E1 – General Plan Amendment 24‑03, RP‑D 83, Zone Change 435, Vesting Tentative Subdivision Map 1333, Environmental Review 24‑30 (Lennar Homes) - The project proposes 570 detached residential units on 61 of 73.7 acres, with 9 acres of commercial/business park, parks, and open space. The site is located at 3610 East Gerard Avenue (southwest corner of Gerard and Campus Parkway). - Staff presented a mitigated negative declaration and recommended approval. The applicant described three product lines (Treasures, Alpha, Welton) and emphasized plans for simultaneous north/south construction. - Commissioners discussed park timing: The applicant agreed to a condition that parks be dedicated and improved by the close of 100 units (approximately 20% build‑out), subject to unforeseen delays (e.g., equipment supply). - Other discussion included: parking adequacy (city standard streets with two off‑street spaces per unit plus street parking), traffic signal timing at Plyme Road and Campus Parkway (not required by study but agreed to by developer, with no specific occupancy trigger), connection to existing bike paths, and school proximity (Pioneer Elementary within half‑mile; mitigation letter not returned). - The commission voted unanimously to recommend approval to City Council for the General Plan Amendment, RP‑D Establishment 83, and Zone Change 435, with the amended park timing condition (Condition 2). They also unanimously approved the Vesting Tentative Subdivision Map and Environmental Review (mitigated negative declaration) with staff‑proposed condition changes (Conditions 7, 11, 22, 37). E2 – Conditional Use Permit 25‑0007 & Site Plan Review 25‑0009 (Marketplace at Merced Sign) - The applicant seeks a 48‑foot‑tall pylon sign with a digital screen at 851 West Olive Avenue. The sign would replace an existing 45‑foot sign and serve a 439,012‑square‑foot shopping center. - Staff recommended approval with conditions: no flashing/video, no audible sound, city may use screen for community events, and landscaping maintenance. - Commissioners asked about brightness limits (to be addressed at building permit stage) and potential road closures (none planned). The property manager stated the sign can be dimmed at night. - The commission unanimously approved the Conditional Use Permit, Site Plan Review, and Environmental Review (categorical exemption with staff revisions). Key Outcomes - Item E1 – Unanimous vote (7‑0) to: (1) recommend City Council approval of General Plan Amendment 24‑03, Residential Planned Development Establishment 83, and Zone Change 435; (2) approve Vesting Tentative Subdivision Map 1333 and Environmental Review 24‑30 (mitigated negative declaration), with amended conditions including park completion by 100 units. The commission also noted staff’s condition changes (Conditions 7, 11, 22, 37) as part of the approval. - Item E2 – Unanimous vote (7‑0) to approve Conditional Use Permit 25‑0007, Site Plan Review 25‑0009, and Environmental Review 25‑0017 (categorical exemption), with staff‑proposed revisions. - Information Items – The commission was informed of upcoming agenda items (July 23 meeting, appreciation dinner for Commissioner Delgadillo, appointment of new commissioners, and a returning general plan amendment for a self‑storage/41‑home project sent back by City Council). - Adjournment – The meeting adjourned at approximately [time not specified in transcript].

The Merced Traffic Committee met on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at 2:00 PM in the City Council Chamber. The meeting lasted approximately 13 minutes and included approval of previous minutes, informational committee reports, and discussion of two citizen requests for traffic calming measures. Both requests were denied. Consent Calendar - Approved the Traffic Committee Meeting Minutes of May 20, 2025. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public comment period. Committee Reports - Fire Department: No report. - Planning Department: Provided an update on the General Plan update, a 15‑20 year blueprint for city growth. - Police Department: Announced the addition of Officer Ageary to the traffic unit, increasing traffic enforcement capacity, and noted that reducing collisions is a priority for the year. - Public Works: Reported that the streets division finished painting all stop lines citywide and began painting school legends and crosswalks around schools. - Engineering: Thanked Laura for filling in as clerk. Discussion Items - Request 25-23: Stop Signs on Callie St. A citizen requested stop signs at each intersection along Callie Street due to multiple crashes. The committee noted the subdivision is new and traffic volume is low. Police Department reported three accidents: a hit‑and‑run in May 2024 (Marcus & Callie), an injury accident in September 2024 (Veronica & Callie), and a hit‑and‑run in October 2024 (Veronica & Callie). The committee determined that the warrants for stop sign installation were not met. A motion to deny the request passed unanimously. - Request 25-24: Speed Bump on Michelle Drive. A citizen requested a speed bump on Michelle Drive due to high‑speed vehicles turning from Arrowwood Drive, creating a safety hazard when crossing to collect mail. Police Department reported zero accidents in the area. Committee members explained that speed bump installation requires 100% approval from affected property owners and that owners would bear the cost. A motion to deny the request passed unanimously. During discussion, the committee suggested that traffic enforcement could address speeding and noted a potential need for speed limit signage on Arrowwood Drive; staff will review this as part of an ongoing speed study. Key Outcomes - Consent calendar approved unanimously. - Request for stop signs on Callie St. denied (lack of warrants). - Request for speed bump on Michelle Dr. denied; staff to follow up on speed limit signage for Arrowwood Drive. - Meeting adjourned at 2:13 PM.