Public Meetings - Stockton, California

This meeting of the Stockton City Council, Successor Agency to the Redevelopment Agency, Public Financing Authority, and Parking Authority took place on September 26, 2023, in the Council Chamber of City Hall. The meeting began with a Closed Session at 4:00 PM, followed by the Regular Session at 5:30 PM, which adjourned at 8:46 PM. Key actions included the unanimous settlement of a lawsuit, approval of a major hospital expansion for St. Joseph's Medical Center, a budget update, updates on the mobile community response program, and a discussion on a charter amendment for the Public Information Office. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved (7-0) the consent agenda, with the exception of items 12.5 and 12.6 which were considered separately. Item 12.5 authorized playground equipment replacement at Brooking Park ($139,998.57 to Miracle Construction Company), Panella Park ($246,499.00 to Yosso Group), and Weber Park ($139,954.62 to Ross Recreation). Item 12.6 authorized a Gas and Electric Extension Agreement with Pacific Gas and Electric for the McKinley Park Renovation Project ($135,632.34). Both items passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Pat Barrett: Requested the Mayor to decree an ad hoc subcommittee for South Stockton residents and partner stakeholders to work directly with the planning commission ad hoc committee, bypassing third-party involvement, arguing it is necessary for equity and to address the Attorney General's requests. - Rudy Hurtado: Expressed frustration with street cleaners, landscaping crews, and homeowners blowing debris back onto cleaned streets, increasing crime (tire theft, car theft), police response times limited to 911 calls, and overall understaffing across city services. - Zoyla Moreno (District 6): Criticized the city for failing to address Western Ranch progress after the big box ordinance repeal and expressed disappointment for the agenda renewal of Measure A without accounting for collected funds, demanding transparency and community meetings. - Cerissa Simmons: Expressed grief and urgency following the shooting of two teenagers near City Hall on September 25, urging the council to take action. - Diana Buettner: Addressed the time limit for public speakers, claiming the three-minute limit violates the charter's five-minute allowance, alleging a "shadow board" making rules unconstitutionally, and calling charter change necessary unless voters approve a change. - Motecuzoma Sanchez (on item 15.2): Asked for a line-item budget report on Measure A expenditures, questioning $300 million spent over 10 years with a net gain of only one police officer. Requested an audit and public disclosure. - Motecuzoma Sanchez (on item 15.3): Opposed the proposed charter amendment, citing a fiscal impact, the process bypassing the charter review process, and lack of transparency around the city manager's office. - Ralph White (on item 15.3): Opposed the charter amendment because the voters had already approved the charter language, stating the city manager is the best ever. He also argued the council is violating the charter by limiting speakers to three minutes instead of five. - Julie Dunning (on item 15.3): Asked for careful cost-benefit analysis, noting the charter timeline, timing alongside the mayoral elections would confuse voters, and the issue hadn't been addressed in 23 years, questioning the urgency. - Christina Fugazi (on item 15.3): Stated the city is in a state of emergency with failing management and prioritization of a charter change over public health, safety (including potholes, parks, and gun violence), and a suggestion to hire a public information officer out of the city manager's own budget rather than charter change. - Lisa Vela (on item 16.1): Expressed full support for the St. Joseph's Medical Center expansion, citing significant economic and community benefits, including over $500 million increase in the annual economic impact, creation of approximately 780 new jobs, training of 142 medical residencies, and serving as the largest Medi-Cal provider. - Zoila Moreno (on item 16.1): Asked for updates on traffic and noise mitigation, especially regarding construction phases and oversight of the confidential settlement with the Sierra Club. Discussion Items 15.1 Community Well-Being Crisis Intervention Project Update - Staff received an update on the Mobile Community Response Team (MCRT). Captain Kyle Pierce (Stockton Police Department) presented the program's strong performance, noting increased calls from 100 initial calls in the first six months to over 1,700 calls in the last four months. presented by program manager Lindsay Lopez and Alfonso Apu (Communicate Medical Centers). The program diverts individuals from 911/emergency response; use is 17% from police, 5% from dispatch, and 33% from community. The data showed 30% of calls for youth/young adults (18-30 years). The program is currently operational 7 days a week, 8 AM to 11 PM, with plans for a 24-hour model if data supports demand. Councilmembers noted the program's positive outcomes, potential for scaling, and asked about data collection, follow-up mechanisms, and the balance between police and MCRT response. - 15.2 FY 2022-23 Third Quarter Budget Status Update - Chief Financial Officer Kimberly Trammell and Budget Officer Imelda provided the financial results. General fund revenues of $188.5 million (66% of budget) were $24.1 million over projection, largely due to sales tax ($13.8M), utility user tax ($2.4M), business license tax ($1.8M), and franchise tax ($1.4M). Measure A sales tax contributed an additional $2.3 million beyond the second quarter. Expenditures of $326.6 million were projected under budget, with Police Department ($17M as of the quarter) and Fire Department ($3.5M) under budget. Staff recommended two budget amendments: an $18,000 increase for the Storm Drain Maintenance District and increased funding for Worker's Internal Compensation Service Fund. A continuation of appropriations for $9,060,939 in FY 2022-23 into FY 2023-24 for unding was authorized. The city's long-range financial plan was previewed, noting pension rates for 2024-25 are expected higher (17% higher than budget). The updated financial model will be presented after year-end close. The item passed unanimously. - 15.3 Discussion and Direction on Charter Amendment for Articles XI and XI-A - The discussion centered on a potential charter amendment to grant authority over the city's Public Information Office to the City Manager, and overall charter alignment. The public comments (Motecuzoma Sanchez, Ralph White, Julie Dunning, Christina Fugazi) highlighted significant concerns about the cost, timing (upcoming mayoral election), and jurisdiction over the PIO. Councilmembers debated a better chapter process: letting the voters decide (Councilmember Wright) or a community discussion process (Mayor Lincoln, Vice Mayor Wormsley). The council directed the City Clerk to establish a citizen advisory board to review the charter, prioritizing Article XI-A, and to bring back a timeline, milestones, and criteria for selecting members. The process is to be intentional, strategic, and ensure community engagement. No vote was taken on the amendment itself; the direction was unanimous. - 16 St. Joseph's Medical Center Expansion Project - This item required Council approval of three actions: 1) Certification of the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) with a Statement of Overriding Considerations, 2) Approval of the Master Development Plan, and 3) Approval of a Development Agreement between the City and St. Joseph's Medical Center (Dignity Health). The EIR identified unavoidable significant aesthetic and greenhouse gas impacts, but the project includes a mitigation monitoring program and community benefits. The project involves a new 331,000-square-foot acute care hospital tower, a new 70-station emergency department, two new helipads, and a new parking structure. It creates approximately 780 new jobs (471 on campus), increases the medical residency program from 96 to 238, and adds significant economic to the region. The project passed unanimously (7-0). Key Outcomes 1. Closed Session Litigation Settlement: The Council voted unanimously (7-0) to settle the case of Laura Dinges v. City of Stockton for $650,000. No other reportable actions were taken. 3. Wastewater Supply & Water Treatment Services: The Consent Items 12.2 (Hydrant Services) , 12.3 (Waste Treatment Galvanic Chemicals) and 12.4 (DUI Enforcement Grant) were approved. 4. Playground Equipment Replacement (Item 12.5): The Council approved (7-0) $139,998.57 for Brooking Park; $246,499.00 for Panella Park; $139,954.62 for Weber Park. Contracts were awarded to Miracle Construction Company, Yosso Group, and Ross Recreation. 5. McKinley Park Renovation Gas & Electric (12.6): Approved (7-0) a $135,632.34 agreement with Pacific Gas and Electric for utilities. 6. Community Well-Being Crisis Intervention Project: Informational only. Team will return with a 24-hour plan based on data. 7. Fiscal Year Third Quarter Budget Update (Item 15.2): Adopted a $9,060,339 carryover of Capital and Special Projects and $18,000 Storm Drainage adjustment and Workers' Comp Fund balance allocation were authorized. Approved (7-0). 8. Charter Amendment Discussion (Item 15.3): The council directed to city clerk to: - Form a citizen review committee with one member per council district. - The committee will prioritize Public Information Office Alignment (Section XI-A) but will also conduct a broader charter compliance review. - Provide a timeline and milestones for review, including public hearings. - Criteria for member selection will be based on historical practices. 9. St. Joseph's Medical Center Expansion (Item 16.1): The Council formally certified the EIR with Mitigation Findings, approved the Master Development Plan, and approved the Development Agreement. Approved unanimously (7-0). 10. Future Community Meetings: City Manager announced a District 2 beautification event (Sept 30) and a Fire Department engine dedication (Oct 12).

The Stockton Planning Commission held a special meeting on September 21, 2023, at 5:30 PM to consider a major expansion of St. Joseph’s Medical Center. After a public hearing, the Commission voted 5-0 to recommend certification of the Environmental Impact Report (EIR), approval of a Development Agreement and Master Development Plan, and approval of use permits and demolition of five structures over 50 years old. The project is projected to add 780 new jobs, increase regional economic activity by $500 million, expand medical residency programs by 50%, and enhance emergency and acute care capacity. Consent Calendar - None. Public Comments & Testimony - Joy Nees (Stockton resident) urged preservation of historic architectural elements, specifically the 1916 hospital wing facade, arguing that the EIR did not adequately consider preservation alternatives and that history should not be sacrificed. - Eric Parfrey (Sierra Club representative) expressed support for the project after the hospital agreed to reduce the parking structure from 1,980 to 1,400 spaces (a 30% reduction), implement a robust transportation demand management program, and meet state electric vehicle (EV) charging requirements. He thanked the hospital for the collaborative process. - Ann Johnston (former Stockton Mayor, member of St. Joseph’s Community Council) strongly endorsed the expansion, citing improvements to the overcrowded emergency room, the residency program’s benefit to the region, and the hospital’s overall economic and social benefits. - Kevin Huber (President/CEO of Grupe Huber Company, developer of University Park and board member of San Joaquin Partnership and Pacific) urged approval, emphasizing that hospital quality is a key site-selection criterion for businesses and that the expansion will enhance clinical training opportunities for students at local colleges and high schools. Discussion Items - Staff Presentation (Brad Wall, Planning Manager): Detailed the five components requiring Commission action: EIR certification (including a Statement of Overriding Considerations for aesthetics and greenhouse gas emissions), adoption of a Development Agreement and Master Development Plan, approval of Use Permits (including heliport amendments), and demolition of five structures over 50 years old. The project spans 19 acres, 30 parcels, and includes a 331,000 sq ft acute care tower, a 90,000 sq ft parking structure (six tiers, up to 1,400 spaces), a new central utility plant, fuel tank yard, generator building, and maintenance building. The EIR identified significant unavoidable impacts to aesthetics and greenhouse gases, but these were outweighed by community benefits. The hospital conducted extensive multilingual outreach, including six community workshops and a scoping meeting. The Cultural Heritage Board unanimously recommended a Certificate of Appropriateness for demolition. - Applicant Presentation: Don Wiley (CEO, St. Joseph’s) highlighted the hospital’s 124-year history, high patient census, and the urgency of seismic compliance (SB 1953) by 2030, which would require temporary bed reductions without expansion. He noted the partnership with Kaiser and growth of the graduate medical education program from 5 residents in 2017 to 166 today, projected to reach 238 by 2029. The project cost is approximately $650 million (excluding seismic), escalating $2.5–$3 million per month. Attorney Martha Lofgren explained that agreements were reached with both the Sierra Club and Gill Medical Center (adjacent property owner), resulting in the parking reduction and stronger mitigation measures on EV charging, solar panels, and parking design. Architect Peter Rosato presented site plans showing four construction phases over a six-year horizon, with completion of the acute tower by July 2029. - Commissioner Deliberation: All commissioners present expressed strong support. Commissioners Boparai, Thompson, Mallett, Jones, and Chair Rizvi praised the community outreach, concessions to environmental groups, economic benefits, and expansion of medical education. Commissioner Mallett asked about the parking compromise and EV spaces; staff confirmed the reduction to 1,400 spaces and compliance with state EV code. Commissioner Boparai urged alignment with the city’s housing action plan to increase density near the hospital. Commissioner Thompson noted the positive impact on the surrounding area. Key Outcomes - Motion by Commissioner Thompson, seconded by Commissioner Mallett, to: 1. Recommend City Council certify the EIR, Statement of Overriding Considerations, Findings of Fact, Mitigation Monitoring Report Program, and Errata. 2. Recommend City Council adopt an ordinance approving the Development Agreement and approve the Master Development Plan with conditions. 3. Approve a Use Permit for the medical center expansion, an amendment to Use Permit S27-86 for heliports, and demolition of five structures over 50 years old. - Vote: 5-0 (Commissioner Hull recused himself at 5:35 PM; Vice Chair Nathaniel absent). The resolution passed. - Next Steps: The City Council will consider the final approvals. Any appeal must be filed within 10 days. The next Planning Commission meeting is scheduled for September 28, 2023.

The Stockton Planning Commission met on September 14, 2023 at 5:31 PM. Only four commissioners were present (Anne Mallett, Waqar Rizvi, Gurneel Boparai, Terry Hull) due to excused absences. Because a quorum was lacking for the public hearing items, both agenda items were continued to later dates. The meeting was adjourned at 5:52 PM. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: Unanimously approved (4-0) the minutes of the April 13, 2023 Planning Commission meeting (Motion 2023-09-14-0301). Public Comments & Testimony - Pat Barrett (South Stockton resident): Spoke about the impacts of warehousing on South Stockton, displayed particulate matter filters, and requested that South Stockton residents be given a direct voice on the warehouse ad hoc committee. - William Mutzenberg (Public Health Advocates): Urged the commission to increase transparency in the warehouse ordinance process, including recording ad hoc meetings, posting communications on the city’s zoning update page, creating a community advisory space for direct input, and seeking an extension from the Attorney General’s office. - Brett Jolly (attorney for Gill Medical Center LLC): Announced that his clients had withdrawn their opposition to the St. Joseph’s Medical Center expansion after reaching a resolution with the applicant, and urged the commission to approve the project at the appropriate time. Discussion Items - Item 5.1 – St. Joseph’s Medical Center Expansion (P21-0958): Staff requested a continuance due to insufficient commissioners. The applicant agreed. The commission voted 4-0 to continue the hearing to a special meeting on September 21, 2023 at 5:30 PM in the same chambers (Motion 2023-09-14-0501). - Item 5.2 – Convenience Store Complex at 461 French Camp Road (P22-0534): Also lacked quorum. The applicant agreed to a continuance. The commission voted 4-0 to continue the item to the next regularly scheduled meeting on September 28, 2023 (Motion 2023-09-14-0502). Commissioner Comments & Reports - Michael McDowell (Deputy Director): Noted that upcoming months will have full agendas and urged all commissioners to prioritize attendance for the sake of staff and applicants. - Commissioner Boparai & Commissioner Hull: Gave updates on the warehouse ordinance ad hoc committee, stating that work is ongoing with industry and environmental groups, and that a study session will be held on September 28, 2023 to allow public participation. - Chair Rizvi: Clarified that the ad hoc subcommittee is composed solely of commissioners and cannot include community members directly; public input is conveyed through staff and at the study session. He thanked city staff and the absent commissioners. Key Outcomes - Consent calendar approved 4-0. - Item 5.1 continued to a special meeting on September 21, 2023. - Item 5.2 continued to the regular meeting on September 28, 2023. - Meeting adjourned at 5:52 PM.

The Stockton City Council held a regular meeting on September 12, 2023, beginning with a closed session at 4:15 PM and open session at 5:30 PM. The council recognized Recovery Awareness Month and honored the San Juan South Girls Soccer Team for winning state and national titles. All votes taken during the meeting were unanimous (7-0). Key actions included approving a $5.38 million subsidy for St. Mary’s Dining Room shelter operations, accepting a $24.17 million state grant for climate and community projects, and authorizing continued use of military equipment under AB 481. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda (items 12.2–12.7) with a single 7-0 vote, after pulling items 12.1 and 12.8 for separate discussion. - 12.1 Poet Laureate Appointments: Appointed Jazmarie LaTour as City Poet Laureate (term Oct 1, 2023 – Sep 30, 2025, with renewal option) and Tama Brisbane as Poet Laureate Emerita. Approved 7-0. - 12.8 Measure W Oversight Committee: Ratified the appointment of Mario Enriquez to the Measure W Oversight Committee for a term ending Jan 31, 2025. Approved 7-0. - Other consent items included contract renewals for workers’ compensation administration (Athens Administrators), MOU with Water Supervisory Unit, purchase of membrane filters, contract extensions for staffing services, uniform rental services, and purchase of brush rigs for the Fire Department. Public Comments & Testimony - Dan Richardson expressed concerns about vendors in Victory Park operating after hours, citing noise, traffic, and lack of permits/health code enforcement. He proposed limiting park hours to dawn to dusk. - Cynthia Gail Boyd criticized Mayor Lincoln for failing to address her civil rights concerns, alleging lack of follow-through and broken promises. - William Maxwell spoke on the poet laureate item, praising Jazmarie LaTour’s appointment and urging the council to restore the $1.3 million arts commission endowment that was taken during bankruptcy. - William Maxwell (during TCC grant comment) spoke in support of the grant as a community partner from Public Health Advocates, emphasizing the importance of the investment for South Stockton. - Chris Cannon during the AB 481 hearing asked about training and accountability for military equipment use. Police staff responded that training and policies are in place and available online. Discussion Items - 15.1 – St. Mary’s Dining Room Shelter Operations Subsidy: Staff presented the emergency transition of the Stockton Shelter campus to St. Mary’s Dining Room following the shelter’s planned closure within 30 days. The city allocated $5.38 million from General Fund Contingency, HHAP, and ARPA funds for a three-year operations subsidy, supplementing an equal contribution from San Joaquin County. St. Mary’s CEO Petra Linden outlined plans to operate over 800 beds across a campus including a navigation center, family shelter, and medical lodge. Councilmembers praised the partnership but Vice Mayor Warmsley emphasized the need for cultural sensitivity and equity in services. The motion passed 7-0. - 15.2 – Transformative Climate Communities (TCC) Round 4 Implementation Grant: Grant Kirkpatrick presented the $24,165,510 grant from the California Strategic Growth Council to fund sustainability projects in South Stockton, including tree planting (1,500 new trees), solar installations, energy efficiency, asthma mitigation, urban farming, and workforce development. The grant builds on a previous round and will fund four limited-term positions in a new Office of Environment and Sustainability. Councilmember Padilla questioned the budget for Code Shack Academy’s curriculum ($880,000 for 24 students) and requested transparency. The motion passed 7-0. - 16.1 – AB 481 Military Equipment Use Policy (Public Hearing): Lieutenant Gary Benavides presented the annual report on military equipment, including drones, armored vehicles, command vehicles, less-lethal munitions, and intended acquisitions of an MRAP (via 1033 program) and an LRAD loudspeaker. He emphasized the equipment’s role in safety and rescue. After public comments, the council authorized continued use and the intended acquisitions. Motion passed 7-0. Key Outcomes - All items on the consent agenda and all new business items were approved unanimously (7-0). - The council allocated $5,380,000 for St. Mary’s Dining Room shelter operations for three years. - The council accepted a $24,165,510 TCC grant and authorized the creation of four grant-funded positions. - The council approved the continued use of military equipment and the acquisition of an MRAP and LRAD under AB 481. - Councilmember comments included requests for updates on illegal dumping ordinance, Ask Stockton app improvements, economic vitality, and police retention. A moment of silence was observed for Keith Kitagawa. - The meeting adjourned at 7:51 PM.

Special City Council Meeting - September 12, 2023\n\nThe Stockton City Council held a special session on September 12, 2023, at 4:00 PM to designate voting delegates for the League of California Cities Annual Conference. The meeting lasted approximately two minutes, concluding at 4:02 PM. No public comments were received.\n\n Discussion Items\n\n3.1 Designating Voting Delegates for the League of California Cities Annual Conference (September 20-22, 2023)\nThe Mayor nominated the same delegates as the previous year: Councilmember Dan Wright as the voting member and Vice Mayor Kimberly Warmsley as the alternate. Vice Mayor Warmsley expressed comfort with the role. Councilmember Wright was absent from the meeting.\n\n Key Outcomes\n- Motion: Moved by Kimberly Warmsley, seconded by Susan Lenz, to approve Resolution 2023-09-12-0301 designating the voting delegates.\n- Vote: Motion carried 6-0. Voting yes: Michael Blower, Brando Villapudua, Michele Padilla, Susan Lenz, Kevin J Lincoln II, Kimberly Warmsley. Absent: Daniel Wright.\n- The city will be represented at the League of California Cities Annual Conference in Sacramento by Councilmember Wright (voting delegate) and Vice Mayor Warmsley (alternate).

The Stockton Planning Commission met on August 24, 2023, at 5:30 PM. The primary actions included the establishment of a three-member ad hoc committee to develop an industrial warehouse ordinance and a staff update on the Shape Stockton zoning and housing efforts. The meeting was recessed from 6:37 PM to 6:44 PM and adjourned at 7:04 PM. Consent Calendar - No consent items were presented. Public Comments & Testimony - Pat Barrett, a South Stockton resident and advocate, urged the commission to include community representatives, especially from South Stockton, on the warehouse ad hoc committee and called for transparent, public meetings with open comment periods. - Mike Souza, representing Green Law Development and the Mariposa Industrial Park project, expressed support for the ad hoc committee and offered to share his experience implementing agreements with the Attorney General and Sierra Club, emphasizing practical knowledge for the ordinance. - Alicia Valenzuela, a Stockton educator and resident, supported equitable representation and data-informed decision-making, urging the commission to consider environmental justice and community health in the warehouse ordinance. - William Muetzenberg, representing Public Health Advocates, requested robust public participation in the ad hoc committee, including representatives from development, environmental justice organizations, and communities within top 80th percentile of CalEnviroScreen 4.0, as well as AB 617 communities. - Eric Parfrey, representing the Sierra Club, proposed a nine-member committee composition and criticized the two-minute public comment limit as anti-democratic, urging the commission to extend it to three minutes. - Frank Orosco, speaking on behalf of Reggetti Enterprise, a 50-year-old truck repair and tractor business on Channel Street and Fremont Street, expressed concern that recent commercial zoning changes are hindering industrial expansion and driving businesses out of Stockton, urging the commission to reconsider zoning that impacts historic industrial areas. Discussion Items - Item 6.1: Establishment of a Planning Commission Ad Hoc Committee for an Industrial Warehouse Ordinance – Staff presented a proposal to form a three-member ad hoc committee to work with staff and stakeholders (including the Attorney General’s office, Sierra Club, health organizations, and developers) to draft regulatory language for a warehouse ordinance by December 31, 2023, per a settlement agreement. The committee would meet weekly virtually, with a study session planned for September 28, 2023. Commissioners debated whether to include specific advisory members (as proposed by the Sierra Club) in the motion. Commissioner Boparai moved to amend the main motion to include three planning commissioners plus two development representatives, one Sierra Club rep, one environmental justice rep, and one South Stockton/AB 617 rep. The commission discussed trade-offs between time constraints (deadline) and community input. Legal counsel clarified that the commission could only create an ad hoc subcommittee of its own members; appointing outsiders would require City Council action. They could, however, invite advisory participants to meetings. - Item 8.1: Informational Discussion on Shape Stockton Zoning and Housing Efforts – Senior Planner Tristan Osborne provided an update on the multiple Shape Stockton projects: Housing Element and Safety Element updates (due December 31, 2023), three Neighborhood Action Plans (in Cabral/East Cabral, Little Manila/Gleason Park, and South Airport corridor), a citywide Housing Action Plan, a Development Code overhaul (public draft in September, hearings in November/City Council early 2024), and Design Guidelines update. Commissioner Boparai asked about commercial-industrial hybrid zones, particularly for areas near the airport and historic industrial zones. Commissioner Jones inquired about the South Airport corridor scope. Commissioner Boparai raised concerns about impacts on historic industrial businesses, such as those on Fremont Street, citing the public comment from Frank Orosco. Staff noted that the development code update offers flexibility and that feedback is welcome. Key Outcomes - Motion 2023-08-24-0601-01 (amendment to include Sierra Club’s written recommendations as advisory members) failed 3-4: Yes: Mallett, Rizvi, Boparai; No: Jones, Thompson, Nathaniel, Hull. - Motion 2023-08-24-0601 (original resolution) was approved 7-0, establishing a three-member ad hoc committee consisting of Vice Chair Rajan Nathaniel, Commissioner Gurneel Boparai, Commissioner Terry Hull, with Chair Waqar Rizvi as alternate. The committee is tasked with formulating an industrial warehouse ordinance and is expected to meet weekly starting August 28, 2023, with a target of presenting a preliminary draft to the full commission at a September 28 study session. - No action was taken on the Shape Stockton informational update; it was received for discussion and future direction.

The Stockton Planning Commission held a regular meeting on August 10, 2023, from 5:31 PM to 7:45 PM. The main agenda item was an informational study session on proposed industrial warehouse development standards, stemming from a settlement agreement with the California Attorney General and the Sierra Club over the Mariposa Industrial Project. No votes were taken on the standards, but the commission and public provided extensive input, and staff was directed to prepare for forming an ad hoc committee to further deliberate. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The commission approved minutes from April 27, 2023 (Motion 2023-08-10-0301-01, carried 5-0 with Commissioner Thompson abstaining and Commissioner Hull absent) and May 25, 2023 (Motion 2023-08-10-0301-02, carried 5-0 with Commissioner Nathaniel abstaining and Commissioner Hull absent). Public Comments & Testimony - General Public Comment: Patricia Barrett (Stockton resident) spoke about warehouse development in South Stockton, showing a dirty air filter to illustrate pollution. She urged the commission to stop warehousing on the South side and consider locating them above Eight Mile Road where pollution is lower. - On Item 8.1 (Warehouse Standards): Multiple speakers addressed the commission: - Jonathan Pruitt (environmental justice advocate, 25-year resident) urged adoption of the original agreement measures, noting 10 new warehouses under construction in 2023 (average 521,000 sq ft) and South Stockton's high asthma rates. He called for at least a 1,000-foot buffer from sensitive receptors. - Margot Prouse (longtime resident, AB617 Community Steering Committee member) stressed the cumulative effect of warehouse projects and urged serious mitigations, referencing the Attorney General's best practices. - Mary Elizabeth (resident and teacher) argued the city has a responsibility to protect health and urged adoption of the original measures, noting Stockton's impact fees are outdated from the 1990s. - Rich Ambage (representing Green Law Partners) spoke briefly on including code provisions for building loads. - Liz Sutton (Sheet Metal Workers Local 104) advocated for high-quality union construction jobs and suggested deferring to California Air Resources Board (CARB) guidance. - Raul Hernandez (San Joaquin Building Trades Council) urged caution about unintended consequences, warning that an overzealous ordinance could drive industry away and harm working families. - Erica Lowry (French Camp resident) expressed concern that the Dudley Track area was not receiving the same mitigations as the Mariposa project, noting a 1.5 million sq ft building planned directly adjacent to homes with only an 8-foot fence and no buffer. - Eric Parfrey (retired city planner, involved in settlement negotiations) questioned the formation of an ad hoc committee and noted other jurisdictions (Tracy, Manteca, Lathrop, county) are also working on warehouse ordinances. He objected to the 2-minute speaking limit. - Trevor Smith (planning/environmental consultant, 22-year resident) commented on specific measures, including solar (suggesting community solar program AB 2316) and zero-emission timelines aligning with CARB's 2045 goal. - Pandora Crowder (Conway Homes resident, community advocate) questioned the need for warehouses in marginalized areas lacking basic services (doctor, pharmacy) and highlighted flood risk and pollution concerns. - Tanisha (EJ program specialist, Catholic Charities) argued for sustainable growth and livable wages, noting San Joaquin County is the second highest concentrated transportation/warehousing metro area (per University of Pacific 2019 study). - Ector Olivares (program manager, Catholic Charities) expressed concerns that the city's receipt of $35 million in state funds for air quality improvement is contradicted by approving warehouses that increase pollution, and urged adoption of the original agreement measures. Discussion Items - 8.1 Informational Session on Proposed Industrial Warehouse Development Standards: - Staff (Mike McDowell, Community Development Director; Matt Diaz, Advanced Planning Manager) presented a study session on converting the 26 measures from the Attorney General/Sierra Club settlement into a municipal code amendment. The measures cover construction mitigation, site/building design, construction permits, ongoing monitoring, and enforcement. Presentation highlighted technical challenges: some measures exceed industry standards, are not commercially available, or shift enforcement responsibilities from regional agencies (e.g., CARB, Air District) to the city. Policy considerations include balancing environmental mitigation with economic competitiveness, enforcement capacity, and the impact of a 100,000 sq ft threshold. Staff noted the deadline to present an ordinance to City Council is December 31, 2023, but extension may be possible. - Commissioner questions and discussion: - Commissioner Boparai asked about alternative fuels (natural gas, hydrogen) and requested market analysis from the state on port/warehouse economics and clean technologies. - Commissioner Thompson raised concerns about grid capacity for electric vehicle charging and questioned the feasibility of zero-emission heavy-duty fleets given current infrastructure. - Commissioner Mallett requested data on air quality by zip code in Stockton and expressed concern about imposing requirements beyond state mandates. - Vice Chair Nathaniel emphasized the need for a level playing field across jurisdictions, opposed piecemeal local regulations, and argued state enforcement should come with state funding. He suggested a threshold closer to 300,000 sq ft and questioned trivial measures like ride-sharing and food trucks. He proposed exploring community benefit packages as incentives. - Chair Rizvi noted the importance of infrastructure and manufacturer dependency, and suggested forming an ad hoc committee to involve stakeholders, similar to past practice. - Public comments (detailed above) reflected strong community concern about health, equity, and cumulative impacts, while industry and labor representatives urged caution to avoid driving away investment and jobs. Key Outcomes - No formal action was taken on the proposed standards; the session was informational. - Direction to Staff: Staff will prepare to establish a three-member ad hoc committee of the Planning Commission to work on the ordinance details. The committee may engage stakeholders (e.g., Sierra Club, developers) as appropriate. Relevant public comments and reference materials (e.g., CalEnviroScreen air quality data, Green Law Partners' code amendment suggestion) will be provided to the commission. - Next Steps: Staff will bring a resolution to form the ad hoc committee at a future agendized meeting. The original deadline for City Council is December 31, 2023, but extension may be requested if needed to ensure a workable ordinance.

The Stockton Planning Commission met on July 27, 2023, from 5:31 PM to 6:03 PM. The sole item requiring a public hearing was a request for a Heritage Tree Removal Permit at 501 East French Camp Road. The commission voted unanimously (7-0) to approve the removal of 11 Valley Oak heritage trees, with conditions including a 3-to-1 replacement ratio resulting in 33 new trees planted in a city park. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the February 23 and March 9, 2023 Planning Commission meetings, by a 7-0 vote (Motion 2023-07-27-0301). Public Comments & Testimony - Erica Lowery, a resident of Dudley Road whose property abuts the site, spoke in opposition. She expressed concerns about the impact on wildlife (birds, coyotes, owls), migratory birds, and the lack of notice to county residents. She stated that she requested the hearing due to these concerns and uncertainty about future development on the property. Discussion Items - Heritage Tree Removal Permit (Item 5.1): Brad Wall, Planning Manager, presented staff’s recommendation. The site, located south of the airport, is zoned Industrial General and is proposed for a future industrial development (over 2 million square feet of warehouse space). Of 25 heritage trees on the parcel, 14 would remain; 11 Valley Oaks were proposed for removal. The decision was solely on tree removal, not the underlying development. An arborist report rated the trees as moderate to good condition. The applicant agreed to a 3:1 replacement ratio (33 trees) at a city park location to be determined. Staff noted that a multi-species habitat plan administered by the Council of Governments will address biological surveys before any site disturbance. Commissioner Boparai clarified that only 11 of over 200 surveyed trees on the overall site (including adjacent parcels) are being removed. No further questions were raised. Key Outcomes - Approved Resolution 2023-05-27-0501 (moved by Commissioner Boparai, seconded by Commissioner Mallett) by a 7-0 vote, granting a Heritage Tree Removal Permit for 11 Valley Oak trees at 501 East French Camp Road, subject to conditions. Appeal rights are available within 10 days per Stockton Municipal Code Section 16.100.020. Reports & Communications - Michael McDowell, Deputy Director, explained that recent Planning Commission cancellations were due to a lack of applicant-ready items (not lack of staff work). He announced an upcoming study session on August 10, 2023, regarding regulations for large industrial warehouses, prompted by environmental and Attorney General concerns. Commissioner Comments - Commissioner Thompson: Announced Mayor Kevin Lincoln’s run for U.S. Congress, noting an event with Speaker Kevin McCarthy. - Commissioner Boparai: Reported on a Conway Homes Resident Council back-to-school drive (hundreds of backpacks given away) and advocacy for human rights issues (Sikh genocide resolution, UN briefing). - Vice Chair Nathaniel: Thanked staff and the public speaker, emphasizing the importance of resident engagement. - Chair Rizvi: Thanked city staff and encouraged continued public participation. - Commissioner Jones: Attended a women’s conference in Oakland and expressed interest in bringing ideas (keys to success) back to Stockton.

The Stockton Planning Commission met on May 25, 2023, at 5:31 PM, and adjourned at 6:20 PM. The primary action was a recommendation to the City Council to amend a development agreement and density transfer agreement for the Spanos Park West Master Development Plan, extending its deadline by 10 years. Consent Calendar - 23-0441 Approval of Planning Commission Minutes: Motion 2023-05-25-0301 to approve the minutes of the March 23, 2023, meeting was moved by Terry Hull, seconded by Brenda Jones, and carried 4-0 (Commissioners Anne Mallett, Brenda Jones, Greg Thompson, Terry Hull yes; Waqar Rizvi, Gurneel Boparai, Rajan Nathaniel absent). Public Comments & Testimony - Mary Elizabeth spoke on two items: 1. Under Public Comment (agenda item 4), she stated that a “round the bench memo” was not provided to the public at the April 2023 meeting, violating the California Government Code. She requested compliance for open and transparent meetings. 2. During the public hearing on agenda item 5.1, she opposed the development agreement amendment without an increased in-lieu fee. She argued the proposed $2,000 per unit fee is insufficient, noting inflation and the average cost to build an apartment unit in California ($70,000–$200,000). She cited the city's Housing Element goals and disproportionate construction of above-moderate income housing, stating the community suffers from a lack of affordable housing. She urged the Commission not to recommend the amendment without a significantly increased commitment and in-lieu fee. Discussion Items - Agenda Item 5.1: Recommendation to City Council to Adopt an Ordinance Approving an Amendment to a Development Agreement and Density Transfer Agreement for the Spanos Park West Master Development Plan - Staff Presentation: Matt D., Advanced Planning Manager, explained the project history. The original 2002 agreement required 935 high-density multifamily units in exchange for allowing more single-family homes. A 2008 amendment added an in-lieu fee option ($2,000 per unit) and updated the remaining obligation to 635 units. As of 2023, 95% of the project is built, but the 635 units or fees have not been fulfilled. The proposed amendment extends the development agreement from its 2022 expiration for an additional 10 years (to 2033), without changing other obligations. Future construction must comply with city standards. Staff recommended a resolution finding the project categorically exempt from CEQA and approving the amendment. - Applicant Presentation: Jim Jemison, A.G. Spanos Construction Inc., stated the company seeks more time due to market conditions (e.g., the Great Recession, fluctuating interest rates). He noted nearby proposed projects (Crystal Bay, Delta Cove) will include over 400 and 300 high-density units, respectively, which could fulfill the obligation. He emphasized the amendment only asks for time extension. - Commissioner Questions and Discussion: - Commissioner Greg Thompson asked about power lines restricting development; staff clarified the lines are 69 KV and difficult to relocate. - Commissioner Gurneel Boparai (arrived at 5:36 PM) asked about the project’s history, market demand, and affordable housing. The applicant and staff responded that high-density development is market-driven and the city is supportive but must work with developers. Commissioner Boparai expressed support for the project, citing its engineering (e.g., floodplain management) and the need to support local businesses. - Commissioner Terry Hull sought clarification on where high-density units might be built (Crystal Bay, Delta Cove, a triangle parcel near Walmart). - Staff noted the 2002 requirement stemmed from a now-eliminated housing element standard, and the primary goal is to get units built, not in-lieu fees. - No further public comments after Mary Elizabeth. Key Outcomes - Motion 2023-05-25-0401: Moved by Greg Thompson, seconded by Brenda Jones, to waive the reading of correspondence (Paul Kasson’s letter) into the record. Carried 4-0 (Commissioners Mallett, Jones, Thompson, Hull yes; Rizvi, Boparai, Nathaniel absent). - Resolution 2023-05-25-0501: Moved by Greg Thompson, seconded by Terry Hull, to recommend the City Council: (1) find the project categorically exempt from CEQA (General Rule §15061(b)(3)); (2) adopt an ordinance amending the Spanos West Business Park Development Agreement and Density Transfer Agreement to extend the deadline by 10 years. Carried 5-0 (Commissioners Mallett, Jones, Thompson, Hull, Boparai yes; Rizvi and Nathaniel absent). The Commission also received reports from Community Development Director Stephanie Ocasio on the cannabis lottery (closing June 15, 2023), the draft Housing Element, upcoming Neighborhood Action Plan workshops, and the city’s pro-housing designation from HCD. Commissioners thanked staff and adjourned.