Public Meetings - Merced, California

This meeting of the Merced City Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Commission (BPAC) was called to order at 4:05 PM on October 28, 2025, in the City Council Chamber. Five voting members were present (Gonzalez, Ewing, Shu, Kaiser Grant, and an acting chair) along with three ex-officio members; two voting members and one ex-officio were excused, achieving a quorum. The commission discussed the City's General Plan Update, deferred a roles-and-responsibilities briefing, and addressed future agenda items and commissioner reports. Discussion Items - G.1 – BPAC Roles and Responsibilities (Deferred): Staff proposed postponing this informational item to the December meeting to coincide with mandatory Brown Act training, as several new members were absent. The commission voted unanimously to defer the item. - G.2 – Merced Comprehensive General Plan Update and Downtown Station Area Plan: Acting Planning Manager Johnny Lann presented an overview. The last comprehensive General Plan update was in 2012; the current update is expected to take about two years. Embedded within it is the Downtown Station Area Plan (focused on a quarter-mile radius around the planned high-speed rail station), which must be completed by June 2026 due to grant requirements. A public workshop was held October 23, and a Citizens Advisory Focus Group (CAFG) is meeting regularly. Staff shared a draft Existing Conditions and Trends workbook (approximately 200+ pages) and requested commissioner feedback via www.imaginemerced.com. The next CAFG meeting is November 10, followed by a joint study session with City Council and Planning Commission. The report highlighted active transportation goals, including connecting rail to UC Merced for non-vehicle travel. - H.1 – Requests to Add Items to Future Agenda: Commissioner Ewing requested that the city engineer provide a prioritized list of capital improvement projects relevant to bicyclists and pedestrians, as the commission meets every other month. Staff agreed to work with engineering to compile a BPAC-focused list and distribute it before the December meeting, allowing commissioners to select projects for updates. This process was accepted. - H.2 – Commissioner Comments: One commissioner reported attending the Measure V Citizens Oversight Committee meeting in October. Measure V is a county transportation tax, with 20% designated for active transportation. The commissioner expressed concern that some projects (e.g., replacing streetlight poles on Main Street and traffic signal synchronization) were being allocated active transportation funds without clear justification, arguing the money should be saved for dedicated bicycle-pedestrian projects. Staff noted the city engineer would review the categorization and that MCAG will also audit; they offered to provide the commission with the relevant website link. Key Outcomes - Deferral Vote: The commission voted unanimously (5-0) to postpone agenda item G.1 (BPAC Roles and Responsibilities) to the December 9, 2025 meeting. - Capital Project List: Staff will produce a BPAC-tailored list of capital improvement projects and send it to commissioners within the next month. Commissioners may then request specific project updates for future meeting agendas. - December Meeting Date: The regular December meeting (scheduled for the fourth Tuesday, December 23) will be cancelled and replaced with a special meeting on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, to accommodate Brown Act training and other items (UC Merced Safe Streets for All grant update, deferred roles-and-responsibilities discussion, and possible project updates). - Upcoming Events: The Merced Bicycle Coalition announced a Holiday Lights Ride on December 6, 2025, at 5:30 PM (start at 6:00 PM), starting from Bob Hart Square; details on ride location will be posted on mercedbicyclecoalition.org.

The Merced City Council met on Monday, October 20, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the City Council Chamber, following a closed session that began at 5:02 PM. The regular meeting adjourned at 7:37 PM. The agenda included ceremonial proclamations, public comments, consent calendar approval, informational reports, an action item on Measure V funding, and a future agenda request. Notably, Council Member Ronnie DeAnda announced his resignation during council comments. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (6-0) the consent calendar, which included the reading of ordinances and resolutions by title, approval of meeting minutes from May 19, 2025 and June 2, 2025, a contract amendment with Goodwin Consulting Group, Inc. for Community Facilities Districts administration, professional services agreements with seven firms (up to $500,000 each) for engineering and design services, a consulting agreement with ControlPoint Engineering, Inc. ($2,578,640) for wastewater SCADA system replacement, and a three-year agreement with Merced County Times for legal advertising services. Public Comments & Testimony - Sierra Kelley proposed a pedestrian-only street on West Main Street to create a safe, economically vibrant public space. - Cindy Kelly (Merced SPCA) reported on the Spooky Community Cat Walk event and the spay/neuter program, noting 143 applications received, 74 eligible, with appointments booked through mid-January. - Fortunato Acosta requested a transparent process for integrating the High-Speed Rail project in Merced. - Christina Valenti-Felix (Robert Rojas Foundation) urged supplying Narcan to Merced County Jail cells after two recent fentanyl overdoses, and raised concerns about black mold in the jail. - Jerry Borilla proposed creating a tent community to address homelessness, citing a managed model in Los Baños. - Merced County Supervisor Josh Pedrozo thanked the Merced Police Department for attending a school event, and outlined county efforts to address illegal food vendors, including coordinated sweeps and enforcement. - Rhonda Batson discussed a controversial incident at a Playhouse Merced board meeting, urging the council not to honor individuals involved. - Karthik Prasad (representing Congressman Adam Gray) requested the council’s support for the Protecting Health Care and Lowering Costs Act, warning that 4 million Californians could lose coverage and 1.7 million face 66% premium increases. Discussion Items - Merced Fire Department ALS Program Update (Information Only): Fire Chief Casey Wilson and EMS Chief Mickey Brunelli reported that since January 2025, 11 paramedics are licensed, with 7 in training. Engine 53 responded to 992 medical calls (261 ALS) from January to August. The squad handled 735 responses (205 ALS). Planned expansion: Engine 51 becomes full-time ALS on November 1, 2025, and a fourth ALS unit is targeted for Q1 2026, covering 73% of EMS responses. Council discussed dispatch efficiency, the need for 5 ALS resources for full coverage, and the impact of UC Merced annexation. No vote taken. - AB 481 Military Equipment Report (Information Only): Police Chief Steven Stanfield presented the annual report detailing equipment such as drones, robots, armored vehicles, and less-lethal weapons. He highlighted an open house on October 25, 2025 (Cops and Critters event) to meet the public viewing requirement. No council discussion or vote. - Measure V Regional Funding Resolution (Action Item): The council considered Resolution 2025-61 to authorize an application to MCAG for the Measure V Regional 2025 Implementation Plan. City Engineer Daryl Jordan explained the proposed reprogramming of $4 million from the Highway 59 widening project to the Black Rascal Creek Bridge project, plus an additional $4 million for bridge construction, and phasing the Mission Avenue widening project. Council Member Smith opposed the shift, citing the risk of losing a $2 million state grant tied to the widening project; he advocated focusing on widening to leverage the grant. Mayor Pro Tempore Boyle and Mayor Serratto supported focusing on the bridge due to safety and project readiness. The motion carried 5-1, with Council Member Smith voting no. Council Member Dupont emphasized the importance of the Mission Avenue widening for South Merced. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar approved unanimously (6-0). - Measure V Resolution adopted (5-1), authorizing application to MCAG for reallocated funding. - Future Agenda Item: Council Member Smith requested, and received a second, to discuss a more robust subcommittee system at the December 1, 2025 meeting. - Council Member DeAnda Resignation: Council Member Ronnie DeAnda announced his resignation, citing health issues and the need to care for his wife. Council members offered tributes to his service, and the meeting was adjourned in his honor by a unanimous vote (6-0).

The Merced City Council met on Monday, October 6, 2025, in regular session (closed session began at 5:01 PM; the regular meeting was called to order at 6:02 PM). All seven members were present at roll call. The Council acted on a 570-lot residential development, a new Grant Policy, a Vallarta Supermarket alcohol license finding, and a 15-item consent calendar, among other business. Closed Session - Closed session was held from 5:01 to 5:43 PM covering labor negotiations (AFSCME Council 57 and MACE), existing litigation (City of Merced v. California Department of Fish and Wildlife), and a public employee performance evaluation (Finance Officer). No report was made out of closed session. Ceremonial Matters and Special Presentations - Mayor Serratto presented a Hispanic Heritage Month Proclamation to the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. - Joyce Dale, from State Senator Anna Caballero's office, presented the 2025 Young Legislators Program; participants introduced themselves and shared details of the program. Public Comments & Testimony - Barbara Cortez shared concerns about untrimmed trees along Bear Creek and park seating. The Mayor suggested she speak with Parks and Community Services and the Deputy City Manager. - Aggie Freeman (Rotary District 5220) announced the Wall That Heals Vietnam memorial exhibit at David McDonald Park in Clovis, October 9–12, 2025, and urged volunteer support. - Belinda Burnett thanked attendees of the courthouse museum 150th anniversary, raised concerns about the increase of food trucks, and said she still has difficulty hearing Council meetings online. - Melissa Morales, on behalf of Maria Taco Shop owner Enrique Valencia and about 70 restaurant owners, opposed unpermitted street vending, citing economic harm, public health risks, and lawlessness; she asked for a consistent, enforceable plan. She noted that nationally 30–35% of restaurants fail within their first two years. - Gloria Sandoval expressed concern about expected cuts to federal homeless housing funds, referencing a CalMatters article. - Rafael Macias, a Merced restaurant owner, asked the city to hold illegal street vendors accountable and said his business is struggling against unpermitted vendors. The Mayor directed him to the Police Department. - Police Chief Steven Stanfield gave a Q3 2025 crime update: arrests up 54%, juvenile arrests down 28%, total cases up 7%, traffic accidents down 27.5%, staff-issued tickets up 104%, vehicle burglaries down 36%, commercial burglaries down 22.5%, residential burglaries down 38%, burglaries overall down 31%, robberies down 28%, auto theft down 36%, sexual assaults down 16%, assaults up 0.6%, shootings down 29%, homicide down 25%, and four department vacancies. - Deputy City Manager Frank Quintero and Economic Development Associate Amanda Williams presented a six-month economic development summary, including ICSC meetings, Burlington and Five Below openings, Hilton Garden Inn, and downtown Merced openings. - Akram Ahmad (209 Eats) urged separating licensed brick-and-mortar businesses and licensed trucks from unlicensed kitchens. - Gwendolyn Hagaman (speaking on J.3) shared that it took eight months and multiple meetings to get a stop sign on West 21st Street and requested more accessible Traffic Committee meeting times. - Belinda Burnett (speaking on M.1 after the initial vote) said she supports flying only the U.S. and California flags, suggested adding a separate pole for special flags, and called for education about special flags. Consent Calendar - The consent calendar was approved unanimously (7-0) after seven items were pulled for separate consideration: J.3, J.5, J.6, J.8, J.10, J.11, and J.15. Items approved without separate discussion included the reading waiver, September 2025 contract notifications, April 21 and May 5, 2025 meeting minutes, the MCAG Civic Center reception use, LexisNexis subscription renewal ($86,291.50), the Curbtender refuse truck ($186,210.75), two Peterbilt side loader trucks ($877,105.01), and a Peterbilt front loader truck ($384,392.95). Separately Considered Consent Items - J.5 (Consultant contract extensions with Interwest, CSG, and Bureau Veritas): Approved 6-0 with Council Member Smith recused. The item extends building inspection/plan review services to October 16, 2026. Council Member Harris initially confused this with the CPPG grant-writing contract (agenda item L.3). - J.11 (Kubota skid steer loader, $72,003.89): Approved 6-0 with Smith recused. - J.3 (Traffic Committee minutes of July 8, 2025): Approved 7-0. - J.6 (McKee Road Rehab RSTP claim, $1,318,873): Approved 6-1 with Council Member Xiong voting no. Xiong said he opposed prioritizing this county project over roads residents have asked to fix; Smith and Dupont supported it as a cost-effective way to leverage funding (county road construction about $500,000 per mile vs. city about $1 million per mile). - J.8 (Grant Policy, Resolution 2025-59): Approved 5-2 with Harris and Xiong voting no, after amending the delegation threshold from $50,000 to $39,000 and requiring an information-only accounting of grants both initiated and accepted. Harris argued for a higher threshold to avoid delaying grant applications; Xiong cited transparency and public accountability concerns; Smith noted the lower threshold aligns with the city's $39,000 contract policy. - J.10 (Accessible Pedestrian Signal components $106,310.32 and school flashing beacons $132,703.67 from Jam Services): Approved 6-1 with Xiong voting no. Xiong raised concerns that none of the 15 signal locations are south of 16th Street and that there was no community input on phase-one locations; staff said it is an ongoing phased project. - J.15 (OTS Traffic Enforcement Program Grant, $95,000): Approved 6-1 with Xiong voting no. Xiong said he prefers a less punitive approach such as providing ride services rather than DUI checkpoints and saturation patrols. Public Hearing – Gerard Avenue Development (K.1) - The Council held a public hearing (opened 7:34 PM, closed 7:43 PM) on General Plan Amendment 24-03, Zone Change 435, RP-D 83, and Vesting Tentative Subdivision Map 1333 for approximately 73.7 acres at the southwest corner of Campus Parkway and E. Gerard Avenue, proposing 570 residential lots, about 3 acres of parks, and about 9 acres of business park. Smith recused himself because the applicant is a client of his law firm. Bill Lyons (applicant) and Timothy Jones (Merced Gateway LLC) spoke in favor, citing housing needs and economic benefits. Andrea Blain and Ravi Mekadesh of Lennar Homes answered questions. Xiong voted no, citing the lack of deed-restricted affordable units and the need for mixed-income housing; he rejected "affordable by design" as equivalent to affordable units. Supporters (Harris, Dupont, Boyle, DeAnda, Serratto) described it as responsible, walkable growth for South Merced and an economic opportunity. The motion carried 5-1 with Smith recused. Action Items - L.1 (Memorandum of Agreement with UC Merced Police Department): Approved 6-0 with Xiong absent. Chief Stanfield said it defines jurisdictional responsibilities and is a no-cost agreement. - L.2 (Amended MOU with Merced Union High School District): Approved 6-0 with Xiong absent. Chief Stanfield said the amendment changes vehicle purchase language to a vehicle usage fee. - L.3 (Contract with California Public Policy Group, $119,000/year): Approved 5-2 with Harris and Xiong voting no. Staff reported CPPG ranked first among five RFP proposals, has submitted $16.2 million in grant applications, secured $4.1 million, with $5.5 million outstanding; grant writing is $3,500/month ($42,000/year) on top of a $6,000/month base. Harris supported the legislative advocacy but advocated for an in-house grant writer; Xiong argued for developing internal institutional knowledge. Smith and Dupont supported contracting for Sacramento expertise and subject-matter specialists; CPPG Managing Director Sharon Gonsalves said their value is understanding state program administration. - L.4 (Finding of Public Convenience or Necessity for Vallarta Supermarket, 851 W. Olive Ave.): Approved 4-3 (Dupont, DeAnda, Harris, Smith yes; Serratto, Boyle, Xiong no). Staff reported 38 disturbances, 3 assaults, 2 public intoxications, and 5 municipal code violations within 500 feet in the last 12 months. Trey Lindle (Vallarta Director of Real Estate) described safety measures including locked liquor cabinets, no-loitering signs, CCTV, and law-enforcement relationships. Harris supported it as business-friendly and job-creating (estimating 50–75 jobs, "about 100"); Smith said the Olive Avenue corridor needs the tools to succeed; Xiong cited alcohol concentration in the area and called it a "slap in the face" to South Merced advocates seeking a grocery store; Serratto and Boyle voted no. Business Items - M.1 (Commemorative flags at Bob Hart Square for 2026): After discussion and public comment, a motion to fly the African American Flag (February), Christian Flag (March 20–April 17), and Pride Flag (June) initially passed 4-3. The Council then voted to reconsider; the re-vote failed 3-4, a subsequent motion for the Pride and African American flags failed, and the Council moved on. Staff noted the flags are usually accompanied by flag-raising ceremonies. Note: The minutes state the Council agreed to fly the three flags, but the recorded votes in the transcript show the main motion failed after reconsideration. - M.2 (Traffic Committee changes): Council Member Harris requested converting the Traffic Committee to a council-appointed commission with monthly meetings. Council members and staff generally favored improving the existing committee (roles/responsibilities, evening meetings, better follow-up) rather than a citizen commission. Direction was given for staff to return with recommendations, with Harris, Boyle, and Smith involved. - M.3 (League of California Cities voting delegate): Council Member Harris was designated as voting delegate for the October 8–10, 2025 conference in Long Beach; the motion passed with Harris abstaining. - M.4 (Future agenda requests): None. - M.5 (Council comments): Council members commented on district projects, the courthouse museum celebration, downtown openings, and adjourned in honor of Chief Stanfield's stepfather, Dave Stern. Key Outcomes - Approved the consent calendar (7-0) plus separate consideration of seven items; votes ranged from unanimous to 4-3. - Approved the Gerard Avenue General Plan Amendment, Zone Change, RP-D, and Vesting Tentative Subdivision Map (5-1, Smith recused). - Approved the UC Merced PD MOA (6-0) and the amended MUHSD MOU (6-0). - Approved the CPPG contract (5-2) and the Vallarta Supermarket PCN (4-3). - Approved the Grant Policy with a reduced $39,000 threshold and information-only reporting (5-2). - Directed staff to bring back Traffic Committee improvement recommendations. - No commemorative flags were ultimately approved for 2026 after the reconsidered motion failed.

The Merced Planning Commission met on September 17, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the City Council Chamber. The meeting included a consent calendar, three public hearings, and action items. Commissioner Tao was absent; a quorum was present with Commissioner Gonzalez serving as acting chair. The commission approved a conditional use permit for tobacco sales, withdrew a subdivision proposal after public concerns about traffic, and split a vote on a mixed-use project, forwarding a general plan amendment denial to the City Council. Consent Calendar - Item D.1: Planning Commission Minutes of August 6, 2025 were approved unanimously with no public comments or requests for removal. Public Comments & Testimony - Item E.1 (2500 E Childs Ave subdivision): Multiple residents spoke against the proposal, citing traffic dangers on East Childs Avenue and the loss of a safe cul-de-sac on Rye Street. Robert Ruby and Deborah Campbell expressed that opening Rye Street to through traffic would increase accidents and lower property values. Amy Valencia and Patricia Gonzalez (Rye Street residents) opposed because the cul-de-sac was a key reason for purchasing their homes, where children play. - Item E.3 (1380 Yosemite Ave project): Numerous neighbors spoke in opposition, focusing on the self-storage component. Tom Clendennan (leader of opposition) argued the mini storage is incompatible, with no landscaping, potential graffiti, and no jobs beyond seven positions. He noted a petition with 179 signatures against the project. Robert DeNuzzo called it a dead land use, and Carol Denuso emphasized that the site should remain commercial office to support UC Merced’s medical school. Lee Bach requested the mini storage be reviewed separately from the homes. Discussion Items - Item E.1: Vesting Tentative Subdivision Map 25-0003 (17 lots at 2500 E Childs Ave) – Assistant Planner Matt Livingston presented the proposal to subdivide 3.38 acres into 17 residential lots (6,200–14,579 sq ft). Public comments raised traffic and safety concerns about connecting Rye Street as a through street. City Engineer Daryl Jordan noted the existing cul-de-sac was intended as temporary for emergency access but that utilities could be routed through easements if the cul-de-sac were preserved. The developer’s representative (Cesar Perez) indicated flexibility. After discussion, Commissioner Ochoa suggested leaving the cul-de-sac intact. The applicant withdrew the application to revise the tentative map. - Item E.2: Conditional Use Permit 25-0015 (tobacco sales at 1277 V Street) – Assistant Planner Livingston explained the convenience market requires a CUP because Dennis Chavez Park (youth center) is 534 feet away. Tobacco products will be stored behind a counter. No public comments. The commission approved unanimously with 19 conditions. - Item E.3: General Plan Amendment 24-02 and Related Permits (1380 Yosemite Ave) – Planner Johnny explained the project had been previously denied (April 2025), appealed to City Council, and returned after a July neighborhood meeting. Changes included reducing homes from 41 to 28, increasing lot sizes, and requiring single-story homes adjacent to the south. Applicant Todd Bender detailed a 30% density reduction and 97% minimum lot size increase. The self-storage would have 500 units, with a 14-foot block wall and hours 7 AM–7 PM. Commission discussion revealed concerns about combining housing and self-storage, consistency with the General Plan, and precedent for mini storages on major corridors. Commissioner Ochoa noted the need for four votes on the general plan amendment. The commission voted 3-2 to approve the environmental review, vesting tentative map, site plan review, and minor use permit (final actions). A motion to disapprove the general plan amendment and site utilization plan revision failed to obtain four votes, so it is deemed denied and forwarded to City Council. Key Outcomes - Item E.1: Applicant withdrew the vesting tentative subdivision map to revise the design and preserve the existing cul-de-sac. No vote taken. - Item E.2: Motion to approve Environmental Review 25-0021 and CUP 25-0015 (with 19 conditions) passed unanimously (5-0). - Item E.3: - Motion to approve Environmental Review 24-25, Vesting Tentative Subdivision Map 1332, Site Plan Review Permit 551, and Minor Use Permit 24-13 passed 3-2 (Commissioners Grigans, Ochoa, and Swigart in favor; Smith and Vu opposed). - Motion to disapprove General Plan Amendment 24-02 and Site Utilization Plan Revision 3 to PD 20 failed to gain four votes (2-3? Actually three votes? Transcript says motion to disapprove by Commissioner Ochoa, second by Swigart, but does not specify vote count. However, per municipal code, failure to obtain four votes deems it denied and forwarded to City Council. So the outcome is that the general plan amendment is denied by the commission and goes to council. - Item F.1: Motion to cancel the October 8, 2025 Planning Commission meeting passed unanimously. - Item G.1: Acting Planning Manager reported upcoming agenda items, including a citizens advisory focus group on October 8 and tentative subdivision maps for the VST project in November.

The Merced City Council, sitting with the Public Finance and Economic Development Authority, Parking Authority, and Successor Agency to the Redevelopment Agency, met on Monday, September 15, 2025, in the Merced Civic Center Council Chamber. All seven members were present: Mayor Matthew Serratto, Mayor Pro Tempore Sarah Boyle, and Council Members Darin Dupont, Ronnie DeAnda, Michael Harris, Shane Smith, and Fue Xiong. The closed session began at 5:04 PM and ended at 5:35 PM; no reportable action was announced. The regular meeting was called to order at 6:01 PM and adjourned at 10:39 PM. The agenda included consent items, a wireless lease at Rahilly Park, the 2026 Cafeteria Plan renewal, the HUD CAPER, a report on county islands, the Essential Air Service carrier recommendation, and a discussion of goals, priorities, town halls, and budget timelines. Consent Calendar - The Consent Calendar was approved by a 7-0 vote after Agenda Item I.3 was pulled for separate consideration. - I.1: The Council waived the reading of all ordinances and resolutions pursuant to Section 412 of the Merced City Charter. - I.2: The Council approved waiving competitive bidding requirements and purchasing inclusive playground equipment from Park Planet for General Vang Pao Park, Aletha June Playground, at a cost not to exceed $244,627.93, using Safe Play Initiative grant funding from First 5 Merced County. - I.4: The Council authorized payment of litigation costs related to the 2023 flood litigation with Marderosian and Cohen, covering approximately $175,000 incurred to date and approximately $175,000 anticipated through trial, scheduled for January 27, 2026. - I.3: The Council approved a two-year lease with James G. Moulton, Trustee, and Lynda S. Moulton, Trustee, for a 9,000-square-foot facility at an initial base rent of $8,643 per month, with an option to extend for three additional years. The vote was 6-1, with Council Member Xiong voting no. Xiong cited insufficient information about the original interagency agreement and funding source. Staff and the Chief of Police said the City acts as a financial pass-through using U.S. Department of Justice funds routed to an asset forfeiture fund, and that the City relinquishes responsibility after two years. Public Comments & Testimony - Aggie Freeman, of Merced Sunrise Rotary, presented Fire Chief Casey Wilson with a Certificate of Recognition for his appointment as Fire Chief. - Belinda Burnett asked Council members to speak into microphones due to her hearing disability and spoke in opposition to special flags being flown at Bob Hart Square, saying not every organization has an opportunity to be represented. - Leah Brown, Management Analyst, provided updates on the General Plan Update and Downtown Station Area Plan, including upcoming community meetings on October 8 and October 23. - Chief of Police Steven Stanfield recognized the Merced Police Department K-9 Unit for its results at the San Joaquin County canine trials, including first overall in the novice division for Officer McCannon and K9 Mako and second overall as a team. - James Reese shared details about Neighbors Unidos services and upcoming community meetings, and said he was moving out of state. - Fernando Aguilera, President of the Soccer Academy/Albion Merced, described the program as prevention-focused with more than 400 recreation participants and 35 competitive teams, and said the academy was invited to play professionals in Ohio. - Arturo Barajas raised health concerns about pop-up and street vendors and the economic impact on local regulated restaurant owners. - Karthik Prasad, Representative of Congressman Adam Gray, provided federal legislative updates. - Necola Adams announced the Merced County Nut Festival and the Merced Gospel-Fest event. - Angela Lara discussed her granddaughter's arrest and stated she will run for Senior Center president. - Written correspondence was received for Agenda Items L.1 and L.2 and forwarded to Council before the meeting. Action Items - J.1: The Council considered a proposed Ground License Agreement with New Cingular Wireless PCS, LLC for a wireless telecommunications facility at Rahilly Park, 3400 Parsons Avenue. Parks and Community Services Director Chris Jensen presented the project description: an initial five-year term with four potential five-year renewals, a $3,000 per month lease rate with 3% annual increases, a $30,000 one-time Rahilly Park capital improvement fee, approximately $27,000 in revenue for the current fiscal year, and potential total revenue of more than $1.3 million over 25 years. The revised site plan moved the tower approximately 200 feet from the nearest residence and more than 150 feet from the playground. Belinda Burnett, Julie Horal, Linda Rybka, and Brenda Morgun spoke in opposition or raised concerns. Rybka said Oakmont and Brookdale residents opposed the tower and discussed real estate disclosure impacts; Horal asked who would verify the marked location. City staff and the City Engineer said the approved site plan, not the preliminary ground markings, would govern construction and would be verified in the field. The lease was approved 6-1, with Council Member Xiong voting no. The Council then voted 7-0 to dedicate 100% of the lease revenue to Rahilly Park for maintenance and improvements. - J.2: Risk Analyst Maggie Lemos presented the 2026 Cafeteria Plan renewal for employees and retirees. The medical plan increased by 14.6%, with total premiums rising by roughly $150 biweekly to about $1,169. The City's cost increased by roughly $82 biweekly, and employees faced an average increase of almost $70. Jason Salters, MACE President, spoke about the burden on City employees and called for help. The Council approved the plan 7-0 and agreed to reopen labor negotiations with AFSCME and MACE to explore options such as a side letter related to medical premium increases. The City Attorney noted labor negotiations would be handled through an approved closed session subject. - J.3: Housing Program Supervisor Kim Nutt presented the 2024 Program Year Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) for submittal to HUD. The report noted approximately $1.9 million in CDBG funds available, an allocation of just over $1 million, and $1,069,512 expended; about $1.5 million in HOME funds with $2,926 expended, mostly for the Devonwood/River Canyon Apartments project; and CDBG-CV funds of about $1.19 million, with $693,463 expended and about $470,000 repurposed to the K Street water and sewer main project. The Council adopted Resolution 2025-57 and authorized submittal of the CAPER to HUD by a 7-0 vote. Reports - K.1: Acting Planning Manager Jonnie Lan and LAFCo Executive Officer William Nicholson presented a report on county islands within city limits, including annexation law, LAFCo requirements, protest thresholds, and service gaps. Ashley Suarez spoke about contaminated water, septic tank failures, lack of sidewalks, Senate Bill 244 funding, and asked the City to consider alternatives to annexation and to update the SB 244 analysis. Council Member Harris noted that sheriff's response to county islands was often 10 to 15 minutes away, compared with faster city police response. No formal vote was taken. The Council directed staff to prepare individualized assessments for each of the listed county islands, evaluating current services, services needing to be added, and potential costs and revenues, and created a subcommittee with Council Member Smith, Council Member Dupont, and Mayor Serratto. Business - L.1: The Council considered the Merced Regional Airport Authority's recommendation for Essential Air Service carrier selection. The Airport Authority recommended SkyWest Charter as Option 1, Contour Airlines as Option 2, and Advanced Air as Option 3. Airport Manager Rhett Williams and Deputy City Manager Frank Quintero discussed the goal of reaching more than 10,000 annual enplanements to qualify for FAA grant funding. Public speakers included Levi Stockton and Barbara Hunt of Advanced Air, Ben Munson of Contour Airlines, and Morgana Dallas and Patrick Menezes, who supported Advanced Air. Menezes also warned about possible federal cuts to the Essential Air Service program. Council Member Dupont disclosed that he had met with all three carriers. The Council discussed frequency of flights, jet capacity, code-sharing partnerships, route options, and safety records. The Council approved a motion 6-1, with Mayor Pro Tempore Boyle voting no, recommending the following ranked options to the U.S. Department of Transportation: Option 1, Contour Airlines with service to Los Angeles International Airport and Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas; Option 2, Advanced Air with service to Hawthorne Airport and Las Vegas; and Option 3, Contour Airlines with service to LAX and Phoenix. Note: The published agenda listed the Airport Authority's recommendation as SkyWest Charter, Contour Airlines, and Advanced Air; the minutes and transcript show the Council approved a different ranked recommendation for transmittal to the U.S. DOT. - L.2: Finance Officer Venus Rodriguez presented a proposed timeline for Council goals, priorities, town halls, and the budget process. The proposal included setting town hall dates in November, holding town halls in January, discussing and adopting goals and priorities in January and February, and using two-year budget planning while continuing to adopt budgets annually. Council Member Harris said goals and priorities should be high-level and should begin with Council and community input; Council Member Smith said the City Manager's team should provide department-level information to inform Council discussions. Ashley Suarez spoke in favor of earlier and more meaningful community input on the budget and raised concerns about a two-year budget planning cycle creating a funding gap. The Council gave direction, without a formal vote, to revise the proposal so that department goals and priorities are presented instead of a City Manager recommended goals and priorities list, to add a goals and priorities setting session, and to set town hall dates in November. - L.3: Council Member Smith suggested adding a future agenda item for a budget code to track expenses the City incurs to comply with and benefit from High Speed Rail. - L.4: Council Members and the Mayor gave announcements. Council Member DeAnda shared updates on his wife's health; Council Members Smith, Harris, and Boyle commented on Total Drama Island; Council Member Dupont reported on community events; Mayor Pro Tempore Boyle thanked staff for the High Speed Rail meeting and congratulated the Police Department; and Mayor Serratto reported on community events he attended. Key Outcomes - Approved the Consent Calendar 7-0, including the separate 6-1 approval of the Moulton lease. - Approved the Rahilly Park wireless ground lease 6-1 and dedicated 100% of lease revenue to Rahilly Park 7-0. - Approved the 2026 Cafeteria Plan renewal 7-0 and directed staff to open labor negotiations with AFSCME and MACE over medical premiums. - Adopted Resolution 2025-57 and authorized submittal of the CAPER to HUD 7-0. - Directed staff on county islands work and created a subcommittee with Council Member Smith, Council Member Dupont, and Mayor Serratto; no formal vote was taken. - Approved a 6-1 recommendation to the U.S. Department of Transportation ranking Contour Airlines, Advanced Air, and Contour Airlines for Essential Air Service. - Gave staff direction on the goals, priorities, town hall, and budget timeline without a formal vote. - Adjourned the meeting at 10:39 PM by a unanimous 7-0 vote.

The Traffic Committee of the City of Merced met on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at 2:00 PM in the City Council Chamber. The committee considered two traffic safety requests, approved consent items, and heard public testimony. The meeting adjourned at 2:41 PM. Consent Calendar - Approved the Traffic Committee Meeting Minutes of July 8, 2025 (Item D.1) by unanimous motion. Public Comments & Testimony - A member of the public (Brian) expressed ongoing concerns about speeding and safety on West Donner Drive, noting prior meetings with staff and collecting 42 signatures. He requested stop signs at San Jose Street and other locations. The chair recommended he resubmit his request for a future agenda. - Mary Lou Torres spoke in support of Request 25-26, requesting a four-way stop at G Street and 12th Street. She described difficulty making left turns due to speeding cars and obstructed views from parked vehicles, noting similar stops at 11th and 13th streets but that drivers speed between them. Discussion Items - Request 25-26: Four-Way Stop at G Street and 12th Street – The committee reviewed collision data provided by the Police Department. The city engineer noted the intersection likely meets state warrants for a stop sign. However, the committee discussed alternatives, including a right‑in/right‑out restriction and painting curbs to improve sight distance (daylighting). The Fire Department supported the right‑in/right‑out option to avoid delays for emergency response. The committee voted to implement right‑in/right‑out restrictions and paint curbs as a first phase, with further signage considered if safety does not improve. - Request 25-27: Yield or Stop Signs at H Street and I Street on West 23rd Street – The Police Department reported collision data for the two intersections: at 23rd & H, three accidents (one injury) over five years; at 23rd & I, two accidents (one injury). The data did not meet warrants for stop signs. Committee members noted no sight‑distance issues and that many uncontrolled intersections exist in the area. The committee voted to deny the request, concluding that a yield sign would not address the underlying driver behavior issues. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar – Approved (unanimous). - Request 25-26 – Approved with a two‑phase approach: first, implement right‑in/right‑out restrictions and paint curbs; later evaluate for additional signage if needed (motion passed unanimously). - Request 25-27 – Denied (motion passed unanimously). - Adjourned at 2:41 PM.

The Merced Regional Airport Authority held a special meeting on September 3, 2025, at 10:15 AM to consider recommendations for the Essential Air Service (EAS) proposal. The EAS Subcommittee presented its evaluation of four qualified airline proposals, and after public testimony and discussion, the Authority voted unanimously to forward three options to the Merced City Council. Public Comments & Testimony - Levi Stockton (CEO, Advanced Air) argued that the first two recommended options (Skywest Charter and Contour Airlines) are alternate EAS proposals, which would cut the number of weekly round trips from 24 to 12 (a loss of 1,248 flights per year), making service impractical. He noted that Advanced Air is a qualifying EAS carrier and that over 400 emails from the public support retaining Advanced Air. He also stated that Las Vegas does not allow part 380 aircraft into the terminal, requiring shuttles for connections. - Barbara Hunt (Advanced Air) emphasized that Advanced Air has rebuilt trust and increased load factors over four years, and that less frequency on larger aircraft would drive passengers to Fresno or other airports. She urged the Authority not to send a message that reliable service is not valued. - Ben Munson (President, Contour Airlines) clarified that Contour can operate as traditional EAS, not alternate EAS. He argued for regional jet service, citing better connectivity, lower fares (20% less than Skywest Charter), and an estimated 21,000 annual passengers, which would bring $1.3 million in AIP funding. He distinguished Contour from Skywest Charter, noting that Skywest Charter lacks existing scheduled commercial infrastructure. - The Authority received over 300 emails (and later reported over 400) from the public in support of Advanced Air. Discussion Items - EAS Subcommittee Recommendation: The subcommittee presented a rank-ordered list: 1) Skywest Charter (LAX & Las Vegas), 2) Contour Airlines (LAX & Las Vegas), 3) Advanced Air (Hawthorne & Las Vegas), 4) Skywest Airlines (ineligible due to part 139 requirements), 5) Boutique Airlines. Skywest Airlines was excluded because Merced Regional Airport lacks the required certification. - Alternate EAS Clarification: Airport Manager Quintario explained that Merced cannot administer an alternate EAS program due to staff capacity. However, Skywest Charter recently obtained DOT approval to operate as a standard EAS carrier, making it eligible. Contour also qualifies as standard EAS. - Route Details: Skywest Charter’s top option is LAX and Las Vegas (12 round trips per week); Contour’s top option is LAX and Las Vegas; Advanced Air’s current service is Hawthorne and Las Vegas (24 round trips per week). - Commissioner Concerns: Commissioner Hirsch questioned why Skywest Charter was included if it was alternate EAS; the clarification addressed this. Commissioner Silva noted that Advanced Air has improved community presence but still lacks visibility; she suggested better marketing. Commissioner Scoble commended Advanced Air for rebuilding trust. - Motion: Vice Chair Jim Song moved to recommend the subcommittee’s options 1 and 2 (Skywest Charter and Contour) and add a third option for Advanced Air, allowing the Department of Transportation to make the final selection. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Vote: Unanimous (6-0) approval of a recommendation to the Merced City Council containing three options: 1) Skywest Charter (service to LAX and Las Vegas), 2) Contour Airlines (service to LAX and Las Vegas), 3) Advanced Air (service to Hawthorne and Las Vegas). - Next Steps: The recommendation will be forwarded to the Merced City Council, which will then make a recommendation to the U.S. Department of Transportation for final selection. The Authority noted that two of the three airlines (Advanced Air and Contour) were present at the meeting, and that public support for Advanced Air was substantial.

The Merced City Council met in regular session on September 2, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the City Council Chamber, following a closed session that began at 5:00 PM. The meeting covered consent calendar approvals, a public hearing continued to October 6, several action items, and council reports. All votes were unanimous unless otherwise noted. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously: reading of ordinances/resolutions waived; information-only contracts for August 2025; Traffic Committee minutes of May 20, 2025; purchase of one Caterpillar Wheel Loader ($163,669.42) from Holt of California; lease agreement with Westamerica Bank for 6,100 sq ft at $1.45/sq ft (three-year term plus extension option); one-year agreement with Forensics Nurse Specialist of Nor CA, LLC for SART exams; first amendment to HealthEMS software license ($125,357 total); three-year renewal for Vector Solutions training software ($55,998); resolutions for CalOES and Homeland Security grant programs; maintenance agreement for six Gateway Monuments; and other routine items. - Item H.6 – Yosemite Crossing Phase 3: Final map, subdivision agreement, and impact fee credit/reimbursement agreement approved 6-0 (Councilmember Harris recused). - Item H.16 – Emergency water main repair: Ratification of $95,000 statement of service with Rolfe Construction, Inc., plus $30,000 contingency, approved 6-0 (Councilmember Harris recused). - Item H.7 – 2026 Cafeteria Plan Renewal: Tabled to the next regularly scheduled council meeting after public comment from city employee Uriel Pulido regarding 20–37% medical rate increases. Motion carried 7-0. - Item H.9 – ABC Grant for Underage Drinking Enforcement: Resolution to accept $50,000 grant from California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control. Approved 6-1, with Councilmember Xiong voting no, citing a preference for positive engagement over enforcement tactics. Police Chief Stanfield noted the grant’s minimum requirements and plans for additional programs like Sober Grad. - Item H.13 – Engineering Services Agreements: Resolution adopting Caltrans Local Assistance Procedures Manual Chapter 10 and approving professional services agreements (up to $1,000,000 per contract for civil design; up to $500,000 per contract for geotechnical, traffic engineering, etc.) with eight firms. Approved unanimously. - Item H.15 – Reject Bids for Traffic Signal Synchronization Project: Motion to reject all bids due to insufficient funding and non-responsive/responsible bids, attributed partly to Project Labor Agreement requirements. Council directed staff to re-evaluate design and re-bid. Approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Cynthia Kelly (Merced SPCA) provided statistical updates: 461 cats spayed/neutered, 212 kittens in foster, 350 pets in low-cost programs, 88% decrease in FELV cases, and thanked the council for supporting animal services. - Rene Gutierrez (Merced resident) urged the city to engage local community members to advocate keeping Merced on the High Speed Rail route, and requested support for street vendors and small businesses ahead of a proposed street vendor ordinance update. Public Hearing - Item I.1 – General Plan Amendment 24-03, Zone Change, RP-D, Vesting Tentative Map (Lennar Homes / Merced Gateway, LLC): The acting planning manager requested a continuance to the October 6, 2025 council meeting for additional review. The public hearing was opened and closed with no public comment. Motion to continue passed 6-1 (Councilmember DeAnda voted no). Discussion Items - J.1 – VIPER Program MOU: Approved new terms and replacement of the previously approved three-year MOU with the Merced County District Attorney’s Office to share the cost of one crime analyst. Approved unanimously. - J.2 – Brown Bag Concert Series: Approved the Arts and Culture Advisory Commission’s recommended performers for November 2025 through January 2026, plus three additional performances in February, March, and April 2026, allocating $4,500 from the FY2025/26 budgeted art project funds. Approved unanimously. - K.1 – Fiscal Year 2025/2026 Community Funding Requests: The City Council Budget Subcommittee recommended $30,000 in awards to eight nonprofits: Calvary (3K), Merced County Nut Festival ($1,000), SPCA ($10,000), Lau Family ($2,000), Merced Symphony ($2,000), Treehouse Tutoring ($2,000), Playhouse Merced ($3,000), Merced TNR ($3,000), and Merced Police Athletic League ($1,000). This item was for information only; no formal vote. Public speakers thanked the council and requested additional support. Key Outcomes - All consent items and pulled items were approved or tabled as recorded. Final votes: H.6 and H.16 (6-0); H.7 (tabled, 7-0); H.9 (6-1); H.13 (7-0); H.15 (7-0); I.1 (6-1 to continue); J.1 and J.2 (7-0). - The public hearing for the Lennar Homes development at Gerard Avenue was continued to October 6, 2025, at 6:00 PM. - The 2026 Cafeteria Plan renewal was tabled to allow further study and union input. - Staff will re-evaluate and re-bid the traffic signal synchronization project, noting the impact of the Project Labor Agreement. - Community funding allocations were presented as recommendations; final award authority rests with the city manager. - Council members commented on High Speed Rail concerns, emphasizing the need to maintain Merced’s inclusion in the initial operating segment, and reported on community events.

The Citizens Advisory Focus Group (CAFG) held its inaugural meeting on August 29, 2025, to launch the comprehensive update of the Merced General Plan and the concurrent Downtown Station Area Plan (DSAP). The meeting covered the CAFG's advisory role, project team structure, timeline, and initial discussions on community engagement, challenges, and opportunities. One public comment was received, and members engaged in an open dialogue about expectations and key issues for Merced's future. Public Comments & Testimony - Arturo Martinez Jr., speaking as a Merced resident, expressed strong support for making dense housing a cornerstone of the new general plan. He noted the state has assigned Merced over 10,000 new housing units and argued that single-family subdivisions cannot meet that need. He advocated for apartments, duplexes, and mixed-use projects to expand affordability, support local businesses, keep growth compact, protect farmland, and reduce commuting and pollution. He urged the CAFG to prioritize dense housing in the plan. Discussion Items - Organizational Overview and Role of CAFG: Consultant Brent Gibbons (Mintier Harnish) presented the project team, including subconsultants for environmental (ESA), economic development (Natels and Dale Group), and mobility (DKS). The CAFG will act as an advisory body to city staff, the Planning Commission, and the City Council. Members will review deliverables, provide feedback, and serve as community ambassadors. Meeting dates were set: October 8, November 10 (Monday), January 28, and February 8 (2026), subject to change. - General Plan Update: Gibbons explained that a general plan is a state-mandated 20-30 year vision covering land use, circulation, housing, conservation, open space, safety, noise, environmental justice, and air quality (for Central Valley). This is a comprehensive update of the 2030 plan, with adoption targeted for end of 2027. Community engagement will include a project website (ImagineMerced.com), newsletters (English, Spanish, Hmong), social media, interactive mapping (Map Channel), and workshops. The logo "Imagine Merced" was unveiled. - Downtown Station Area Plan (DSAP): Deeksha from WRT presented the DSAP, which is on an accelerated timeline (completion by June 2026). The plan area boundary includes downtown, the future high-speed rail station site, and South Merced. Goals include creating a vibrant, walkable, mixed-use corridor and leveraging the station. Staff clarified that despite media reports of potential rail resequencing, the city is moving forward; the plan will revitalize downtown regardless of rail. The DSAP will analyze scenarios for land use, connectivity, parks, and infrastructure. - Open Dialogue on Expectations and Challenges: CAFG members shared indicators of success: meaningful and realistic outcomes, robust public outreach especially to underserved areas (South Merced, seniors), ambitious vision, clarity for developers, and collaboration. Key challenges identified included homelessness in downtown, parking oversupply, displacement and gentrification, housing affordability, infrastructure for emergency services (south Merced train crossings), pedestrian safety across major roads (Highways 99 and 59), quality of life for youth, healthcare support, and maintaining a balance between ambition and pragmatism. Key Outcomes - The CAFG formally established its advisory role and process. No votes were taken; consensus-building will guide future decisions. - Next meeting: October 8, 2025, to review the existing conditions and trends report. - First community workshop: October 23, 2025, at the Sam Pipes Room, City Hall. - Members were encouraged to suggest additional outreach venues and community groups to city staff. - The date discrepancy between the transcript (August 27) and the given meeting date (August 29) was noted but the official date of August 29, 2025 is used per instructions.