Public Meetings - Merced, California

The Recreation & Parks Commission held a special meeting on March 3, 2026, starting at 5:34 PM and adjourning at 6:47 PM. The meeting included a public hearing on naming the stage in Bob Hart Square Plaza, department updates, and appointment of a subcommittee to review lease proposals for the Stephen Leonard Youth Center. Consent Calendar - Commissioners unanimously approved the minutes of the January 26, 2026, meeting (motion by Commissioner Bauer, second by Commissioner Lewis). Public Comments & Testimony - Barbara Ward (President, Merced Rotary Club) spoke in support of naming the stage in Bob Hart Square Plaza as the "Merced Rotary Stage." She offered a $50,000 contribution and funding for appropriate signage, noting the club's 104-year history and past capital investments in the community. She emphasized the importance of a visible downtown investment to encourage continued donations. - Commissioner questions clarified that the $50,000 would help sponsor five years of performances (approx. $1,000 per performance) through the city's Arts & Culture Commission. The stage rental is $150/hour for public events with a two-hour minimum. - Kelly Avala (Vice President of Human Resources, Merced College) expressed interest in the Stephen Leonard Youth Center lease, proposing educational programming for youth and families in South Merced. She mentioned a planned community survey to tailor services. - Eli Sachs (LGBTQ Merced) presented a coalition of seven organizations (including American Red Cross) seeking to provide accessible community services, such as fire safety education, arts & crafts, and support groups in Spanish, English, and Hmong. - Crystal Ramos (Program Manager, Youth Leadership Institute) described their proposal to offer youth resources and programs, with a focus on surveying local youth to inform programming. Discussion Items - Public Hearing – Naming Bob Hart Square Plaza Stage: The Commission reviewed the application from Merced Rotary Club. Staff clarified that the city does not have a term limit for naming rights but recommended revisiting after five years. The Commission unanimously voted to recommend approval to the City Council (motion by Commissioner Abon, second by Commissioner Bauer). - Parks & Community Services Department Updates: Director Christopher Jensen reported on: - Budget & Staffing: First year with zero city subsidy to Boys & Girls Club; new investments in machinery (ABI Force Infield Machine, turf striping robot) to reduce costs; $200,000 donation for Applegate Zoo zookeeper; new recreation supervisor hired from Bay Area. - Capital Projects: Merced Regional Sports Complex (CP42) nearing completion, with an all-inclusive playground (13,000 sq ft) that won a California Park & Recreation Society award. Phase 2 (CP42 North) plans include additional fields and an indoor facility, pending joint powers authority with county, schools, and Merced Union High School District. No bus route yet, but road improvements planned. - Programs: Youth basketball serves 400 youth, with new kinder-only and girls-only leagues. Adult basketball improved with uniform requirements and ID checks. Concerns about tennis court issues (closed session) and McNamara Park turf injuries noted. - Access: Sports complex will be reservation-based, with limited public access except during community days. Fencing and security cameras planned. - Commission to Appoint Subcommittee for Stephen Leonard Youth Center Lease: Commissioners discussed forming a subcommittee to review six to seven proposals. After ensuring no conflicts of interest, Commissioners Gonzalez, Holloway, and Abon were appointed to the subcommittee. They will meet on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at 4:00 PM in staff offices to rank proposals and report back to the full commission on March 23. - Request to Add Future Agenda Items: Commissioner requested updates on Kitty Land (train), McNamara Park field conditions/timeline, and Joe Earth Park nets. Staff agreed to add these. Key Outcomes - Stage Naming: Unanimous recommendation to City Council to approve naming the stage in Bob Hart Square Plaza as the "Merced Rotary Stage," with a $50,000 contribution from the Merced Rotary Club. - Subcommittee Appointment: Three commissioners (Gonzalez, Holloway, Abon) appointed to the Facility Use Subcommittee to review Stephen Leonard Youth Center lease proposals; meeting scheduled for March 19, 2026, at 4:00 PM. - Future Agenda Items: Staff directed to provide updates on Kitty Land, McNamara Park fields, and Joe Earth Park nets at the next meeting. - Commission Comments: Commissioner noted cleaner park restrooms due to evening locking by police; suggested a FIFA World Cup watch party at Bob Hart Square to generate downtown activity.

The Merced City Council met on March 2, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the City Council Chamber. The meeting included ceremonial presentations, public comments, a consent calendar, a public hearing, action items on mid-year budget adjustments and annexation support, and a FEMA reimbursement report. Key decisions included approval of a private patrol license, most mid-year supplemental appropriations, and preliminary support for a 110.6-acre annexation project. Ceremonial Matters - The Yosemite Gateway Chapter 126 of the Order of the Eastern Star donated two ballistic vests for K9 Officers Zeke and Mako. The chapter has raised over $50,000 since 2024 for such vests, with 25 vests presented or on order. City officials highlighted the K9 unit’s 68 deployments in 2026, including recovery of narcotics and drug money, and a 10% reduction in use-of-force incidents. Consent Calendar - The council unanimously approved the consent calendar, which included: - Reading by title and waiver of reading of ordinances and resolutions. - Information-only contracts for February 2026. - Approval of meeting minutes from December 1 and December 2, 2025. - Subrecipient agreements with Dr. Jennifer M. Jones Foundation ($44,059 for Legacy Fund), Harvest Time ($74,955 for Food 4 You), and Project Sentinel ($50,000 for Tenant-Landlord Counseling) using CDBG funds. - First amendment with Vasquez & Company LLP for auditing services, adding $7,500 (total not-to-exceed $307,500). - Waiver of competitive bidding and purchase of Ignition SCADA software for the wastewater treatment plant ($73,305.70). - Second reading and final adoption of Ordinances 2588 and 2589, amending Municipal Code to replace references to the dissolved Traffic Committee with “city engineer or his/her designee.” Public Comments & Testimony - Rosie Campania commented on proposed changes to high-speed rail funding rules (SB 1411), urging the council to continue public discussion and consider a future agenda item. She expressed concern about fiscal clarity and accountability for Merced residents. - Nolan Moss Goldsby invited the community to UC Merced’s 15th Annual African Student Union Cultural Showcase on April 11, 2026, highlighting the organization’s community connection. - Karthique Prasad (representing Congressman Adam Gray) announced a March 6 deadline for community project funding submissions and noted that last year $16 million was secured for the district, including $3 million for Bear Creek restoration and $800,000 for road construction in Merced. - Alexandra Rizzo (field representative for Assemblywoman Esmeralda Soria) provided updates on state legislation and local investments, including $5 million for flood infrastructure in Merced County, over 1,500 backpacks distributed, and 1,000 families served through holiday programs. - Patricia Pratt and Arvin Mendoza (local artists and business owners) presented the Merced Art Festival (May 18–24, 2026), funded privately, but noted that a new street closure ordinance prevents their planned closure of Canal Street on May 23. They are working with city staff on alternatives and requested openness from the city. - Rochelle April (61-year Merced resident) spoke about youth violence, the need for youth programs and a larger budget (referencing a past $700,000 budget), and requested a four-way stop sign at Martin Luther King Jr. Way and 12th Street after speaking with a youth from the McNamara Youth Center. Discussion Items - Public Hearing: Hastings Patrol Services License (J.1) – Staff reported that Hastings Patrol Services, a licensed private security firm, seeks a certificate of public convenience and necessity to operate in Merced. The company has one prior disciplinary action (a $1,000 fine in 2022 for training record violations, since resolved) and two pending contracts in Merced. Councilmember Zhang opposed private security, citing accountability concerns. The resolution passed 6-1, with Zhang voting no. - Mid-Year Budget Review and Supplemental Appropriations (K.1) – Finance Officer Venus Rodriguez presented the FY 2025-26 mid-year report. The General Fund ended FY 2024-25 with a $14 million balance, $2.2 million above estimate. Sales tax is up 11.4% year-over-year. Staff requested supplemental appropriations totaling $157,400 from the General Fund and $652,545 in budget amendments across various funds. Items included: - A. City Clerk’s Office remodel ($20,000) - B & C. Delete one Payroll Supervisor and add one Senior Accountant (no fiscal impact) - D. Fire Department weed abatement ($60,000 from General Fund) - E. Fire Department AED replacements ($60,000 from Measure Y) - F. Police Department software ($20,300 from Measure Y) - G. Transfer from Affordable Housing Fund (1020) to Housing Administration ($352,600) - H. Transfer from General Fund to Housing Administration ($77,400) - I. Transfer from Affordable Housing Fund (1020) to Cal HOME ($72,773) - J. Engineering Division equipment and services ($110,000 from Development Services Fund) - K. Fleet replacement equipment ($109,645 from Fleet Replacement Fund) - L. Authority to reconcile PBID/TBID deliquencies Councilmember Harris moved to add item M: $30,000 from the General Fund for a tortoise exhibit at the zoo, noting a private donor provided for another exhibit but the tortoise habitat was not funded. Councilmembers Smith and DuPont opposed creating a precedent of last-minute additions. The motion (A–L plus M) failed 4-3. Council then approved items B and C (the personnel change) separately, and then approved items A and D–L (excluding M) on a second motion (5-2, with Zhang and Harris opposing due to concerns over using Affordable Housing funds for administrative costs). Director Jensen noted the tortoise exhibit addition could be brought back on a future agenda. - Preliminary Annexation Support: Mission 82 (K.2) – Staff presented Preliminary Annexation Application 25-02 for 110.6 acres at the southwest corner of East Mission Avenue and Mariano Way. The proposal includes up to 1,056 single-family homes on 64.6 acres (various densities) and 46 acres of business park reserve. Councilmember DuPont recused himself due to a client conflict. Councilmember Zhang opposed the low-density residential focus and lack of affordable units. The council voted 5-1-1 (Zhang no, DuPont recused) to express general support for proceeding with the formal annexation process. - FEMA Storm Reimbursement Report (L.1) – Staff reported total reimbursement received from FEMA for the January and March 2023 storms was $3,007,146.72. The January storm work within the first 60 days was 100% federally funded; later work and March storm work used a 75% federal/18.75% state/6.25% local cost share. Funds were used to repay borrowed CIP funds and reimburse departments. Key Outcomes - Consent calendar approved unanimously. - Hastings Patrol Services certificate granted (6-1). - Mid-year supplemental appropriations: Personnel change (B & C) approved; items A and D–L approved (5-2); item M (zoo tortoise exhibit) not approved. - Mission 82 Annexation preliminary support approved (5-1-1). - Mayor requested future agenda items on a downtown ad hoc subcommittee and a volunteer fair in April; no formal vote taken. - The meeting adjourned in recognition of Officer Eduardo Chavez, who is retiring after long service.

The Citizen Advisory Focus Group (CAFG) met on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at 6:04 PM in the City Council Chamber to continue discussions on the General Plan update, focusing on existing conditions, community assets, issues, and opportunities. The meeting included a presentation from the consultant team, a review of the January 28 community workshop, and facilitated discussion on five topics: issues, assets, opportunities, lessons from the past, and hopes for the future. The group also considered a consent calendar item and received an update on high-speed rail. Consent Calendar - E.1 (25-1039): The CAFG approved the minutes of October 8, 2025, with a correction to add Keith Ensminger as present and a recommendation that future minutes include more detail. The motion passed unanimously via roll call. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public requested to speak during the public comment period. Deputy Mayor Quintero was present but did not address the group. Discussion Items - Existing Conditions & Community Engagement Update (F.1 26-174): Consultant Brent presented an overview of the General Plan timeline, noting that the Existing Conditions and Trends Workbook has been finalized and posted online. Lead planner Hannah Woolsey reported on the second community open house held January 28, 2026 (2-6 PM), which drew over 50 attendees. An online survey mirroring the workshop activities is open through March 16, 2026, in English, Spanish, and Hmong. - High-Speed Rail Update: Planning Manager Sam reported no new developments as the authority has not provided direction on station location. Member Curtis Thomas noted the introduction of state Senate Bill 1411, which would lift expenditure caps on the high-speed rail authority, potentially affecting Merced. The group discussed the fluid legislative landscape. - CAFG Discussion on Issues, Assets, Opportunities, and Vision: Members shared observations and priorities. Key themes included: - Issues: Unsafe bike/pedestrian infrastructure (especially West Childs Avenue), aging downtown infrastructure, northern sprawl, crime and public safety, food deserts in south Merced, lack of neighborhood retail, poor sidewalk conditions, need for better transit connectivity, and insufficient community outreach. - Assets: Downtown revitalization, Merced Mall, hometown feel, cultural diversity, UC Merced and Merced College, Bear Creek and parks, tourism potential (gateway to Yosemite), affordability, and strong community organizations. - Opportunities: Expanding UC Merced’s Biosafety Lab 3, encouraging entrepreneurship and “third places” (e.g., Joystick), using Bob Hart Square for events, improving transit with grid networks, leveraging the airport and existing transport modes, developing 16th Street and the southeast area, and fostering arts and culture. - Lessons from the Past: Avoid rapid boom-bust development (lessons from 2008), embrace creative alternatives (e.g., Merced Mall transformation), integrate public art early, and learn from other cities’ mistakes (traffic, unaffordability). - Future Vision: A city skyline visible from Highway 99, well-connected neighborhood centers, a stronger tourism economy, safer and more walkable communities, and preserving the small-town charm while growing. - Next Steps: The consultant will synthesize all feedback (from the workshop, online survey, and tonight’s discussion) into a draft vision statement and guiding principles, to be presented at the next CAFG meeting. The vision will then go to the Planning Commission and City Council for adoption, followed by policy drafting in summer 2026. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar Approved: Minutes of October 8, 2025, approved with corrections and a recommendation for more detail (unanimous vote). - Direction for General Plan: The CAFG’s input on issues, assets, opportunities, and future vision will inform the draft vision statement and guiding principles. The online survey remains open until March 16. - Next Meeting: A draft vision statement will be presented at the next CAFG meeting (date to be determined). Staff will provide a schedule to members. - Engagement Efforts: Staff will follow up with UC Merced’s labor center regarding potential survey collaboration and continue working with community organizations to boost outreach.

The Merced City Council held a regular meeting on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, beginning at 6:00 PM in the City Council Chamber. The meeting included a closed session at 5:00 PM (no report out), ceremonial proclamations, public comments, unanimous approval of the consent calendar, and action on several items including committee assignments, fire truck purchases, grant evaluation agreements, environmental document approvals, a sewer project change order, and direction to draft a gaming ordinance. Ceremonial Matters - Proclamation – Ramadan Recognition (Item F.1): The Council formally recognized the holy month of Ramadan, which begins at sunset on February 18, 2026. Shahid Sohail accepted the proclamation and thanked the Council for honoring the Muslim community and its contributions. - Proclamation – Honoring Riggs Ambulance Service and the Riggs Family (Item F.2): Councilmember Harris read a proclamation honoring the legacy of Ken Riggs, who founded the service in 1948, and his son Craig Riggs. The proclamation highlighted pioneering achievements in emergency medical services, including being the first in California to stock oxygen and requiring paramedic certification. The Riggs family accepted the honor. Public Comments & Testimony - Jeremy Jenkins (Merced Community Intercessors): Expressed support for community unity and prayed for peace in light of recent violence. Invited the Council to partner with the group. Announced a community prayer event on Saturday, February 21, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Bob Hart Square. - Francesca Lopez (Merced Community Intercessors): Echoed Jenkins’ remarks and asked for open communication and collaboration to host positive gatherings and support youth programs. - Carthi Prasad (on behalf of Congressman Adam Gray): Announced that Congressman Gray secured over $16 million in direct federal funding for 15 projects in the district, including $850,000 for Childs Canal roadway construction and $3 million for Bear Creek Infrastructure and Flood Protection Initiative. Also noted the office is accepting applications for future community project funding. - Israel Salgado: Updated on Merced Scholars Charter School, which had been slated for closure but will now continue through the 2026–2027 school year. Encouraged registration (February 18 – March 6) and highlighted the dual-language (English/Spanish) program. Consent Calendar - All items on the consent calendar (I.1–I.11) were approved unanimously without separate discussion. These included: - Reading by title of ordinances and resolutions (I.1) - Traffic Committee minutes (I.2) - Meeting minutes of November 17, 2025 (I.3) - Authorization for Microsoft licensing agreement with SHI International Corp. for up to $1,922,641 over five years (I.4) - Street closure for the 38th Annual Merced Criterium Bicycle Race on March 1, 2026 (I.5) - Amendments to legal services agreements with Richards, Watson & Gershon (up to $60,000) and Best Best & Krieger LLP (up to $50,000) (I.6) - Waterworks supplies bid award to three vendors, combined not to exceed $440,000 per year for two years (I.7) - First reading of Ordinance 2588 (amending Chapter 10.50.010 to replace “traffic committee” with “city engineer or designee”) (I.8) - First reading of Ordinance 2589 (amending Chapter 10.20.190 “Warrants – Stop Signs” similarly) (I.9) - Resolution 2026-09 establishing an administrative remedies procedure for fee challenges (AB 2257) (I.10) - Professional services agreement with Black Water Consulting Engineers for the 2025 Urban Water Management Plan, not to exceed $55,751 (I.11) Discussion Items - J.1 – Committee Assignments Resolution: Councilmember Smith presented Resolution 2026-12 to affirm City Council committee assignments and appointments to regional organizations. After discussion, the Council adjusted the Finance and Economic Development Committee to include Mayor Pro Tem Boyle, Councilmember Zhang, and Councilmember Tao. The resolution also dissolved several former subcommittees and ad hoc committees (including the Riley Park ad hoc). Approved unanimously. - J.2 – Fire Truck Purchase: Fleet manager Cosmo presented a request to replace two 20-year-old fire department trucks (F-946 and F-979) with two 2026 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD 4WD work trucks at $63,167.50 each ($126,334.99 total) plus a 10% contingency ($12,633.50) for a total not-to-exceed $138,968.49. The purchase uses a government procurement program (Sourcewell). Approved unanimously. - J.3 – CalVIP Evaluation Agreement: Management Analyst Sarah Canister presented a services agreement with Social Policy Research Associates ($49,075) to perform a local evaluation report for the California Violence Intervention and Prevention (CalVIP) Cohort 4 grant program. The program, “Pathways to Success,” provides mentorship and support for at-risk youth. Seven proposals were received; Social Policy Research Associates scored highest. Approved unanimously. - J.4 – University Industrial Park Environmental Agreement: Senior Planner Francisco Mendoza presented a professional services agreement with J.B. Anderson Land Use Planning ($210,486) and a deposit/reimbursement agreement with Lyons Investments (up to $231,534.60) to prepare an environmental document for a General Plan amendment and rezone of approximately 376 acres at the southeast corner of Campus Parkway and State Highway 140. The project would allow a mix of residential (1,000–2,300 units), business park, and commercial uses. The agreements cover environmental review and staff costs. Approved unanimously. - J.5 – Craig Drive Sewer Main Change Order: City Engineer Jordan presented a request to increase contingency by $53,190.80 (to a total of $112,223.30, 28.51% of the original contract) for Change Order 3 with MidCal Pipeline & Utilities, Inc. for the Craig Drive sewer main project. The additional work addresses failing pavement discovered during construction. Approved unanimously. - J.6 – Gaming Ordinance Direction: Chief Deputy City Attorney Rhonda Lucas requested direction to draft an ordinance amending Chapter 9.08 of the Municipal Code to align with state law (Business and Professions Code Sections 19961.07 and 19860). Currently, the city allows 12 card tables across two card rooms, but only one (Casino Merced) operates (6 tables). The proposed ordinance would allow a gradual expansion: +2 tables in the first year, then +2 every four years, up to 22 tables by 2042, subject to conditional use permits and DOJ approval. Councilmembers expressed preference that additional tables be allocated only to operating card rooms. Council unanimously directed staff to draft the ordinance with that condition. Key Outcomes - All votes were unanimous (5-0). - Resolution 2026-12 (Committee Assignments) approved, with the Finance and Economic Development Committee composed of Mayor Pro Tem Boyle, Councilmember Zhang, and Councilmember Tao. - Fire department vehicle replacements authorized. - CalVIP evaluation contract awarded to Social Policy Research Associates. - Environmental review agreements for University Industrial Park approved. - Additional contingency for Craig Drive sewer project approved. - Council directed staff to draft an amended gaming ordinance expanding card tables only for operating establishments, with a gradual phase-in per state law. - The meeting adjourned in memory of Joel Knox, a longtime resident of District One and community advocate.

The Merced Tax Transparency Commission met on February 10, 2026, to review December 2025 financial reports for Measures C (sales tax) and Y (cannabis tax), elect a new chair, and discuss future agenda items. No public comments were received. Consent Calendar - No items were considered under the consent calendar. Public Comments & Testimony - The clerk reported no public comments were submitted or spoken during the meeting. Discussion Items - Measure C Revenue and Expense Reports (December 31, 2025): Staff reported that Measure C transaction tax revenue for fiscal year 2024-25 was nearly $9 million, with an estimated $9.1 million for 2025-26. Third-quarter 2025 revenue showed a 9.5% cash increase and 8.5% adjusted increase over the prior year, with all industry groups up. The final 2024-25 revenue was $6 million, exceeding the budget by $444,000. The Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) recommended minimum fund balance for 2025-26 is $1.5 million. During the budget process, seven public safety positions (one firefighter, four police officers, two dispatchers) were added to Measure C due to general fund constraints. However, staff forecasted that expenditures will exceed revenues over the next five years, requiring potential reallocation of those positions. A question was raised about a $143,000 variance in fire expenditures; staff explained it was due to a vacant firefighter position. The commission unanimously voted to accept the report and forward it to the City Council. - Measure Y Revenue and Expense Reports (December 31, 2025): Staff reported cannabis tax revenues for 2025-26 are estimated to be similar to the prior year, with a slight decrease of less than $1,000 in the latest quarter. For fiscal year 2024-25, actual revenue totaled just over $1 million, exceeding the budgeted $774,000 by $248,000 due to lower-than-expected expenditures. Expenditure allocations are fixed: 20% each to police, fire, and parks and recreation, with 40% discretionary among those areas. Two mid-year requests were noted: $60,000 from fire for AED replacements and a software subscription request from police to correct a budget omission. The commission unanimously voted to accept the report. - Selection of New Chair: Commissioner Murphy nominated Vice Chair Kistecki for Chair. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously. The commission noted that the vice chair position would be agendized for the next meeting. - Request to Add Item to Future Agenda: Commissioner Murphy requested updates on road repaving (including potholes) and street light LED conversion status. Staff confirmed that Measure C can cover street lights and will bring information to a future meeting. - Commission Comments: No comments were made. Key Outcomes - Measure C Report: Unanimously accepted and forwarded to City Council (motion by Murphy, second by Johnson; all in favor). - Measure Y Report: Unanimously accepted and forwarded to City Council (motion by Murphy, second by Johnson; all in favor). - New Chair: Vice Chair Kistecki elected Chair unanimously. Vice chair election deferred to next meeting. - Future Agenda Items: Staff to prepare updates on road repaving and street light LED projects for a subsequent meeting. - Adjournment: Motion to adjourn by Murphy, second by Garcia, passed unanimously.

The City Council held a study session at 4:00 PM, closed session at 5:00 PM, and a regular meeting at 6:00 PM. The regular meeting included a special presentation, public comments, consent calendar, action items, reports, and business items. Key decisions included approval of tree pruning contracts, acceptance of assessment ballot results for 5 of 12 maintenance districts, dissolution of the Traffic Committee, funding for a business license study and compliance services, and a memorandum of understanding for a Veterans Village grant. A new City Council committee policy was adopted. Study Session (4:00 PM) - Formation of a New Community Facilities District (CFD) for Services (Item B.1): Cindy Yann of Goodwin Consulting presented a fiscal impact analysis proposing a new citywide services CFD to streamline annexations. The current special tax rate for single-family units is $750 per year (set in 2003). The analysis recommends a rate of $1,548 per single-family unit for new development to fully mitigate impacts, or $1,658 with a 70% multifamily rate ($1,161). The session was informational; no action was taken. Council members expressed interest in returning for further discussion, including exploring a facility CFD for capital projects. Special Presentation (7:44 PM) - Merced Downtown Partnership Annual Report (Item H.1): Executive Director Gloria Valdovinos reported that in 2025, the Downtown Ambassador Program (launched February 2025) performed over 3,900 graffiti removals, 8,000 spot cleanings, and 1,500 interactions with unhoused individuals. Downtown Merced was designated a California Cultural District for 2026. The partnership also installed a new Christmas tree, painted 100 street light poles, and planted four pots on Canal Street. Public Comments & Testimony - Cindy Kelly (spay/neuter advocate): Reported that in 2025, 650 pets were spayed/neutered (110 dogs, 540 cats), preventing an estimated 4,000 births and saving the city over $30,000 in surrender fees. She urged continued funding for the program. - Augie Freeman (Rotary Area 8 Governor): Announced the Area 8 youth speech contest on February 25 and a spring 5K/10K fundraiser with the Merced Police Department to build community trust. - Israel Salgado (parent): Expressed opposition to the planned closure of Merced Dual Language Academy (a charter school run by MCOE) at the end of the school year, citing low enrollment claims. He stated that within a week, 60 families expressed interest, arguing the school was poorly marketed. He requested council advocacy. - Miranda Griswold (parent): Also spoke about the Dual Language Academy closure, noting 96 students enrolled (TK-4th grade) and that a parent-led interest form garnered 70 families within 24 hours. She requested a probationary period to increase enrollment. - Nantzia Thao (Hmong community leader): Thanked the police chief and parks department for partnership; announced Hmong American Day on May 9 on Canal Street, led by youth. Noted high Hmong youth suicide rates and a grant for mental health programming. - Cha Yang Li (program coordinator, Lu Hmong Center): Spoke about youth leadership and mental health, urging the council to listen to youth voices. Consent Calendar - The council unanimously approved the consent calendar (Item K), which included: reading of ordinances by title (K.1), information-only contracts for January 2026 (K.2), tree pruning and removal services agreement with West Coast Arborists, Inc. (K.3) – pulled for discussion, a service agreement not to exceed $413,000 – unanimously approved after discussion (see below), acceptance of CFD annual disclosure reports (K.4), and a modified resolution for the Homekey+ Grant Program adding Self Help Enterprises as co-applicant (K.5). Discussion Items - Item K.3 – Tree Pruning Services with West Coast Arborists: Councilmember Smith raised questions about a protest letter alleging process irregularities. City Attorney Cornwall confirmed one minor notice irregularity but deemed it immaterial, noting the city charter allows discretion. The contract was unanimously approved. - Item L.1 – Assessment Ballot Results for Maintenance Districts: Staff presented results of a ballot on proposed assessment increases for 12 underfunded maintenance districts. Five districts passed: Quail Creek, Oakmont 3, Northwood Village, Oakbrook, and Ridgeview Meadows. The remaining seven saw no increase. Council approved the results unanimously. Councilmembers noted the need for better community messaging and discussed options for Fahrens Park I (which voted no) including using reserves or reducing services. - Item L.2 – Dissolution of the Traffic Committee: Staff proposed dissolving the Traffic Committee and transferring duties to city staff via an online request form. Councilmember Zhang requested transparency on submitted tickets. Approved unanimously. - Item L.3 – Business License Study and Compliance Services: Staff recommended a $50,000 supplemental appropriation for Hinderliter de Llamas & Associates (HdL) to review the business license ordinance and enforce compliance (with a 50% contingency fee on recovered back fees). Councilmember Smith expressed concerns about third-party enforcement. A motion passed unanimously with a request for a 4-month status report. - Item L.4 – Veterans Village Grant MOU: Staff presented an MOU with Merced County to manage a $150,000 matching grant from the Continuum of Care for the 73 South R Street Veterans Village project. The project is now open with 16 veterans housed; the grant will cover final construction costs. Approved unanimously. - Item N.1 – City Council Committee Policy C-8: Councilmember Smith presented a revised policy establishing standing committees and codifying appointments to regional bodies. The policy clarifies council terms, Brown Act compliance, and agenda-setting procedures. Approved unanimously, with staff to return with a resolution setting committee rosters. Key Outcomes - Study Session: No action taken; staff to bring back a proposal for a new citywide services CFD for council discussion (anticipated spring 2026). - Consent Calendar: All items approved unanimously. - Assessment Ballot Results: Approved unanimously, with increases for 5 districts and no increase for 7. Staff directed to explore options for the seven unfunded districts. - Traffic Committee Dissolution: Approved unanimously; online submission goes live February 3, 2026. - Business License Study: Approved unanimously with a 4-month status report. - Veterans Village Grant MOU: Approved unanimously. - Council Committee Policy C-8: Approved unanimously; staff to present a resolution for committee appointments at a future meeting. Reports - Item M.1 – Financial Forecast and CalPERS Update: Finance Officer Venus Rodriguez presented a five-year forecast showing general fund deficits of $5-6 million per year absent corrective actions. Options included: increasing development services fees, CFD tax rates, business license revenue, and possibly a ballot measure. CalPERS unfunded accrued liability was $124 million; annual payments are projected to rise from $11.7 million in 2026-27 to $14.4 million by 2030-31. The report was informational. Public Comments (Non-Agenda) - (Included above under Public Comments & Testimony) Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at approximately 9:34 PM.

On Saturday, January 31, 2026, the Merced City Council held a special strategic planning session from 9:00 AM to 11:38 AM at the Merced Civic Center to discuss FY 2026/2027 goals and priorities, the five-year financial forecast, capital improvement funding, and carryover projects. The session was discussion-only. City Manager Scott McBride and Finance Director Venus presented the budget outlook; councilmembers shared individual priority lists; Fire Chief Casey Wilson reviewed the SAFER grant and fire station issues. Broad consensus emerged on continuing existing priorities rather than adopting large numbers of new initiatives. Budget and Five-Year Forecast Presentation - Finance Director Venus presented a preview of the five-year forecast, with more detail scheduled for the next Monday evening council meeting. Revenue assumptions included: most smaller revenues growing 1–3%; sales tax 3% per year; property tax 5–6% per year; 2% RDA residual growth; no new grants; no revenue included after the county fire service stopgap agreement expires in December 2026; SRO contracts assumed to continue; and parks program revenues based on council-approved December 2025 fees. - Expenditure assumptions included no new positions or programs, labor increases only in the first year because MOUs expire, benefit increases of 10–11%, workers' compensation increases of 8%, general liability increases of 10–12%, CalPERS unfunded liability charges of 29–50% of salaries, 2% non-personnel inflation, 4% annual general fund transfers to parks, and the 25% general fund reserve set-aside. No funding was included for PC/fleet replacement or economic development/affordable housing set-asides. - Key projected challenges: SAFER grant expiration in March 2027, equal to $3–4 million per year for 24 firefighters; removal of the county fire agreement of a little over $300,000 per year; a parks and recreation position costing about $112,000 annually losing grant funding; a zookeeper position partially funded by a $200,000 private donation over three years; cannabis tax continuing to decline; Measure C unable to support the seven added public safety positions by 2027–28 and failing to meet the GFOA recommended minimum in all five years; development services running a deficit of about $1.5 million per year, with a fee study potentially adding about $1 million; and general fund deficits in the last three years of the forecast once reserves and the 5% contingency are set aside. Personnel is about 75% of general fund expenditures. - CIP and road funding available for the next budget was presented as about $9.9 million for roads and about $125 million total for other capital categories including airport, public safety, wastewater, water, and facility charges. - Mitigation options included increasing development services and airport fees, reviewing a new CFD and special tax rate, business license audit and tax restructure, managing fleet additions, using RDA residual, and evaluating the feasibility of a ballot measure. Fire, SAFER Grant, and Station Discussions - Fire Chief Casey Wilson said SAFER funds 24 firefighter positions until March 2027. Not all 24 positions would need to be fully replaced because of vacancies and transitions; 16–19 personnel would be needed to open Station 6 and maintain current staffing including Squad 53. Approximately 12 personnel are needed to staff a station, plus six for the squad, plus relief coverage. - The city will likely apply for the next SAFER grant NOFO in April 2026, but back-to-back SAFER awards are uncommon and the city is not banking on it. - The county mutual aid contract expires at the end of calendar year 2026, and negotiations are expected to begin soon. New AMR advanced life support service at all five stations is expected mid-year. - Station 54 relocation to southeast Merced is underfunded and requires a study; Station 56 remains a high priority with a roughly $3 million funding gap. City Manager McBride mentioned exploring the HUD 108 program to help close that gap. Councilmember Goals and Priorities - Councilmember DuPont synthesized department management goals and objectives into five priorities: ethical leadership and open government; high-quality core services and public safety; infrastructure maintenance and asset stewardship; housing, community wellness, and economic development; and long-term fiscal health and workforce stability. He recommended aligning council priorities with department objectives rather than adding new unfunded directions. - A District 2 councilmember highlighted lighting, park safety, roads, sidewalks, drainage, crosswalk and bike lane safety, police staffing, and youth development programs, citing specific District 2 locations such as MLK/11th/12th Street crossings, Canal/Chow and M/Chow flooding, A Street near Tenaya Middle School, and dark park areas. - Councilmember Harris urged increasing revenue, particularly by developing commerce along Highway 99 and supporting a potential high-speed rail station in southeast Merced. He argued downtown revitalization alone would not generate enough revenue, supported grant-writing capacity, Safe Streets and Roads for All grants, UC Merced partnerships to make downtown more of a college town, public safety partnerships, Station 56 financing, and community events such as a Renaissance Fair at Applegate Park. - Councilmember Smith supported finding a pathway for street lights in neighborhoods without them, including neighborhoods in District 4 around Alexander Olive. He favored a standing committee to develop a lighting district or assessment structure, but cautioned against always asking residents to pay more. He advocated focusing on carryover tasks such as county island annexation, Station 56, and high-speed rail rather than new initiatives, and asked again for a council internship program, suggesting the youth council may be past its time. - Mayor Pro Tem Boyle emphasized bike path lighting, especially Black Rascal Creek under the G and R Street bridges, code enforcement, and a 'doing business with the city' workshop to help small and food vendors get business licenses and connect with county resources. - Councilmember Jean gave a detailed list including post-SAFER fire planning, high-speed rail, more department staffing, a dedicated grant writer, Merced Connect app accountability, county island annexation, public EV charging, a special events ordinance to reduce police overtime, graffiti abatement and higher arts funding, pedestrian safety and sidewalks on G Street, youth jobs funding, Valley Children's Hospital property accountability, more trash bins, local homeownership, parks and community services as the face of city events, park restrooms, lights and drinking fountains, and re-evaluation of the M/Buena Vista/Donna intersections and the M Street bike path. - The Mayor added priorities including animal control volunteer partnerships, Bear Creek safety and cleanup, expanding the downtown ambassador model to the creeks, Bellevue Ranch and vacant park sites, downtown parking enhancements, MLK entry improvements, surplus land disposition, a wrong-way bicyclist ordinance, park rangers as a possible police relief, a Parsons corridor decision, Bob Hart Square activation, and anti-violence and youth programs. On downtown parking, he noted about 96 new diagonal parking spots, roughly 10 lost at Bob Hart Square, for a net gain of about 86. City Manager's Additional Items and Next Steps - City Manager McBride listed spring 2026 items needing attention before the next fiscal year: extending the county tax-sharing agreement that expires in August; supporting new social media staff; considering bonding against Measure V allocations for large road projects, potentially $10–15 million on a one-time basis; closing the Station 56 gap via HUD 108; deciding what to do about the remaining unapproved maintenance districts; improving the Merced Connect app; and applying for school-area pedestrian safety funding in the spring. - During a streetlight funding discussion, a city official noted five of 12 maintenance districts voted to increase rates; later, City Manager McBride described five of seven maintenance districts as approved. The transcript is inconsistent on this point and the discrepancy was not resolved during the meeting. - No formal votes were taken. The City Manager recommended forming a council subcommittee to refine the priorities, as was done last year. Councilmembers broadly agreed to continue that process. The meeting adjourned at 11:38 AM.

On January 27, 2026, the Merced City Council held a study session at 5:00 PM on sewer and water rate proposals, followed by a special meeting at 6:00 PM to reconsider the relocation of the High-Speed Rail (HSR) station from downtown to Southeast Merced. The council took public testimony and voted on a letter to the California High-Speed Rail Authority. Study Session: Sewer and Water Rate Study - Consultant Mark Hildebrand presented a comprehensive rate study covering water and wastewater utilities, financial plans, rate design, capital facility fees, and a new state law (AB 2257) providing legal protection against rate challenges. - Water rates: Proposed increases of 8% per year for three years, then 7% for two more years, with a structural change reducing the monthly water allocation from 20 HCF to 15 HCF. The city currently has the lowest water rates in the region. Capital spending is projected to jump from an average of $272,000 per year to $8.7 million per year due to a backlog of projects. - Wastewater rates: Proposed increases of 5% for two years, then 4% annually, with no structural changes. The city remains the lowest in the region. Two capital scenarios were presented: one with a $30 million grant (lower long-term rates) and one without (requiring debt and higher rates in later years). Both scenarios result in identical rate increases through year five. - Capital facility fees: Water fees increase about 2%; wastewater fees increase 45% (from $7,433 to $10,888 per single-family home) due to an outdated 2011 study. - Council members asked about conservation impacts, collection rates, and aquifer sustainability. No formal action was taken; the session was for discussion and direction. Public Comments & Testimony - 13 speakers addressed the council on the HSR station relocation. Key positions included: - Paula Made (UC Merced): Presented survey results showing 91% of residents strongly support community engagement in HSR decisions; top concerns are rising housing costs (48%), project cost, and environmental impact. Majority support pedestrian and low-cost bus connections. - Richard Barnes: Opposed relocation, warning it would divert travelers from downtown businesses and harm local economy. - John Carlos: Supported relocation with conditions, including no blank check to HSR Authority, adequate parking, and reimbursement for added expenses. - Mary Mua (Boys & Girls Club): Supported HSR and relocation, noting earlier plans would have impacted their youth center; committed to expansion regardless. - Curtis Thomas: Opposed, arguing suburban stations perform poorly, the city gains nothing without enforceable commitments, and the process is a manipulated compromise. - Sandra Uribe (Leadership Counsel): Criticized lack of community outreach and rushed timeline; raised concerns about infrastructure costs and environmental justice. - Eric Ham: Detailed negotiation tactics (e.g., “door in the face,” “creating facts on the ground”) he argued the HSR Authority is using to pressure the city into accepting relocation. - Sharon Wardell Trejo (Merced Senior Center): Supported relocation, noting it would avoid disruption to downtown businesses, senior center, and youth center. Discussion Items - HSR Station Relocation (F.1): Deputy City Manager Frank Quintero reviewed the history of the station location (from 2010 downtown site to 2026 proposed southeast site near Highway 99 and Mission Ave). Council members discussed: - Councilmember DuPont: Distrusted the HSR Authority; proposed red-line amendments to the letter to soften support from “conceptual support” to “support for collaborative review” and adding a call for analysis of impacts. - Councilmember Harris: Supported exploring the alternative, noting downtown is mostly built out, and Southeast Merced could generate more revenue and avoid disruptions during construction. - Councilmember Smith: Emphasized need for more community engagement and a timeline for further discussions with HSR Authority and state officials. - Councilmember Zhang: Opposed sending the letter, citing insufficient community input and premature commitment. - Mayor Serrato: Acknowledged state law (SB 198) currently requires a downtown station; any change requires legislative action. Key Outcomes - Study Session: No formal action; rate study information was presented for council consideration. Council directed staff to incorporate a flat 4% increase in fiscal years 2032-2033 for the wastewater scenario without a grant (per Councilmember Smith’s suggestion). - HSR Station Relocation: The council adopted a motion (6-1, with Councilmember Zhang dissenting) to: - Approve conceptual support of the HSR Authority’s recommendation to move the station to Southeast Merced, subject to good-faith negotiations on identified issues. - Authorize the City Manager to send a letter expressing the city’s support for a collaborative review of the concept, incorporating Councilmember DuPont’s amendments (softened language and added request for analysis of infrastructure, utility, and service impacts). - Next Steps: The council’s transportation subcommittee will continue discussions with the HSR Authority and state partners, and the community will be engaged more formally. The letter serves as a starting point for further negotiation; no final commitment to relocation has been made.

The Merced Regional Airport Authority met on January 27, 2026, to receive the airport manager's report, review passenger and cargo statistics, and hear Advanced Air's Q4 marketing report. Roll call was taken with one member absent, and no public comments were offered. The airport manager noted that earlier meeting dates had been bumped by City Council high-speed rail items. The meeting closed with a unanimous motion to adjourn. Public Comments & Testimony - None. The chair reported zero request-to-speak forms for items not on the agenda. Airport Manager's Report - The CARES Act grant for the terminal replacement project is being closed out; the FAA grant closeout letter was completed on November 7. A punch list remains with airport staff, the engineering department, DD Construction, and Mead & Hunt. - Terminal public-area floors were resurfaced, and the apron concrete valley gutter was replaced to meet FAA P501 specifications; BSK survey consultants conducted quality assurance. - Airport staff met with the FAA for the annual ACIP meeting and submitted a 2026-2030 project roadmap for Merced for review. - Phase 3 of the FAA-funded radio tower project is underway, adding new navigation and communication radios. It is expected to be completed in late spring 2026 and will move radios from PG&E to MID power. - The U.S. Department of Transportation extended Essential Air Service for Advanced Air at Merced from January 1, 2026 through June 30, 2026, or until the air carrier selection case initiated by Order 2565, issued May 10, 2025, concludes, whichever occurs earlier. - In response to council questions, the airport manager said the federal shutdown delayed the terminal opening ceremony date and the Advanced Air timeline. The existing terminal remains in full use, and Advanced Air remains interested in serving Merced. If no federal budget is approved by January 30, similar delays could occur. Passenger and Cargo Report - Annual totals for 2025 showed 9,479 enplanements and deplanements, an increase over the previous year. - Cargo totaled 399,600 pounds, with a November peak of about 51,000 pounds tied to holiday, back-to-school, and summer activity. - Non-revenue passengers are carrier employees flying on the aircraft; monthly counts varied, with 4 in January, 8 in July, and 3 in December in the data presented. Advanced Air Quarterly Marketing Report - Sean Fabian, Advanced Air's head of operations, was expected to join remotely but dropped off; airport staff presented the report. - Advanced Air initiated an interline agreement with Alaska Airlines, allowing passengers to book through Alaska's website and connect along the West Coast. - Email marketing results included a 12.4% open rate and click rates of 3.5% to 3.8%. A campaign celebrating 20 years of 20% off flights had a 49% open rate and a 2.9% click rate. - New marketing promotes the route as "Your Gateway to Yosemite, no crowds, no hassle, semi-private flights, Hawthorne or Merced, as low as $81." - Social media ads for Merced to Las Vegas and Los Angeles advertise one-way weekday fares as low as $54 and $52. One ad spent about $2,500 and received about 1 million impressions. - Marketing partnerships include the Merced County Hispanic Chamber, Merced County Farm Bureau, UC Merced, El Capitan, Merced Fireman's Ball, and St. Paul Lutheran Church, with ads also promoting Mammoth, Yosemite, and Redwoods. - Council discussion noted that airport parking is free and secure, there is no rental car desk at the terminal yet, and YARTS remains the main ground connection to Yosemite. Key Outcomes - The only formal action was a unanimous motion to adjourn, with all present voting aye. - Next steps include completing terminal punch-list items, coordinating an opening ceremony date with the DOT, awaiting the DOT air carrier selection decision, and continuing to monitor Advanced Air's marketing and passenger growth.