Public Meetings - Stockton, California

The Stockton City Council met on April 28, 2026, beginning with a closed session at 3:00 PM and reconvening publicly at 5:30 PM. The meeting included recognitions, public comments, consent agenda approvals, several public hearings, and significant decisions on the council salary increase, a transit board appointment, the future of the Cesar Chavez library name, a citywide pool assessment, and the selection of an internal auditor. The meeting adjourned at 11:35 PM after council comments. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda (items 12.1–12.14) with a single 7-0 vote, except item 12.11 was considered separately. - Item 12.11: Adoption of an amendment to Chapter 4.03 of the Council Policy Manual (meeting schedule and location). After public comments opposing a move to 1:00 PM start times, the council approved the amendment 7-0. The new schedule will move regular session start time to 1:00 PM, with closed session following the open meeting. The change is intended to reduce late-night meetings and associated staff overtime costs, which were reported to average $5,344 in overtime per meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Nonprofit Capacity Building Program: Multiple speakers (Tran Nguyen, Kristen Birtwhistle, Jessie Massey, Lisa Vela) urged continued funding for the program, citing its state-leading impact. The program was ranked 1 in California for intentional municipal investment in nonprofit capacity. - Park Maintenance: Stefanie Alfaro requested agenda placement for repairs at Sergio Park, noting broken playgrounds, graffiti, and a fallen tree trunk. - Public Safety: Barbara King criticized the council for delaying police substations in Weston Ranch despite an August 2025 approval. Yolanda Amen and others asked for expedited police contract negotiations. - Meeting Time Change: Several speakers (Alicia Ramirez, Laura Frausto, Paula Gallon, Yolanda Amen, Cynthia Gail Boyd) opposed moving meetings to 1:00 PM, arguing it would exclude working residents. - Cesar Chavez Library Name: Alicia Ramirez, Laura Frausto, Mark Stebbins, and Yolanda Amen spoke against removing the name, citing due process and the legacy of the farmworker movement. Yolanda Amen emphasized the decision should not be based on “incomplete narratives.” - General Public Comment: Donald Tafoya criticized Vice Mayor Lee; David Grantham alleged rights violations by security; Leslie Hearon invited the public to a revival and National Day of Prayer. Discussion Items - Item 16.1 – SJRTD Board Appointment: After a new process (no interviews, ranked voting eliminated), two motions were made. A motion to appoint Balwinder Singh failed 3-4 (Blower, Enríquez, Lee in favor; Fugazi, Villapudua, Padilla, Ponce against). A subsequent motion to appoint Saiha San passed 4-3 (Fugazi, Villapudua, Padilla, Ponce in favor; Blower, Enríquez, Lee against). - Item 16.5 – Council Salary Increase: The Salary Setting Commission recommended a 30% increase (from $30,000 to $40,000 per year, effective January 1, 2027). A motion to table until police contracts were settled failed. A motion to accept the recommendation passed 4-3 (Fugazi, Villapudua, Padilla, Ponce in favor; Blower, Enríquez, Lee against). Discussion included the council’s full-time workload, absence of benefits, and the need to recruit diverse candidates. - Item 14.1 – Cesar Chavez Name on City Facilities: Continued from April 14. After emotional debate, Councilmember Padilla moved to cover the name on the library and form an ad-hoc committee to research options. The motion passed 6-0 (Ponce absent). The ad-hoc committee will include public input. - Item 16.3 – Citywide Pool Assessment and Strategic Options: Staff presented options for seven pools. The council accepted staff recommendations, adding option two (splash pads) for Holiday Park. Motion passed 6-0. The plan includes opening nine pool locations summer 2026, with projected 20,000–30,000 swimmers. Total expenditure $1.6 million, revenue $125,000, subsidized by Measure M (93%) and General Fund (7%). - Item 16.4 – Internal City Auditor: After reviewing two finalists, the council approved selection of UHY Advisors Mid-Atlantic, Inc. for a three-year contract with two one-year options. Cost estimated at $421,000 total, significantly less than an in-house department ($1.4 million annually). Motion passed 6-0. - Informational Item 16.2 – 211, Coordinated Entry, HMIS: Family Resource Center and Central Valley Low Income Housing Corp. presented updates. In 2025, 211 served 89,000+ callers, including 34,000 housing-related. The coordinated entry system enrolled 1,500 homeless individuals, with 46 matched to permanent housing. HMIS tracks 48 agencies and 298 users. Key Outcomes - Salary Increase Approved: Council salary will rise to $40,000 annually (30% increase) starting January 2027. Vote: 4-3. - SJRTD Board Appointment: Saiha San appointed to serve until June 30, 2028. Vote: 4-3. - Cesar Chavez Library Name: A temporary cover will be placed, and an ad-hoc committee formed. Vote: 6-0. - Police Substations: Discussion delayed; Vice Mayor Lee noted a committee meeting on May 21 to review substation funding. - Pool Assessment: Nine pools opening summer 2026; Holiday Park splash pad option directed. Vote: 6-0. - Internal Auditor: UHY Advisors hired. Vote: 6-0. - Fire Department Fee Adjustments: Approved via two-year tiered approach to reach 100% cost recovery. Vote: 6-0. - HUD Annual Action Plan: Approved for FY 2026-2027, allocating $3.2M CDBG, $1.3M HOME, $283K ESG. Vote: 6-0. - Administrative Matters: Council directed staff to bring forward items on face covering ban, facility usage policy, Light Up Stockton update, vacant buildings, tobacco enforcement, loose dogs, and board/commission appointment process review. - Council Comments: Several members provided district updates including pothole repairs, park cleanups, community meetings, and the upcoming State of the City address on May 20, 2026. - City Manager’s Update: Highlights included the May 1 launch of CENCAL Fire and EMS Authority, Small Business Week (May 3-9), and summer recreation programs. Note: Councilmember Mariela Ponce was absent for votes on items 15.1, 15.2, 14.1, 16.2, 16.3, 16.4, and during council comments. The meeting was extended past 11:00 PM to allow all council comments.

The Stockton Planning Commission convened at 5:30 PM on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at 425 N El Dorado Street, Stockton, California. Commissioners present were Terry Hull, Derek Graves, Jeff Sanguinetti (Vice Chair), Pandora Crowder, Jazmine Hernandez, and Robert Oakes. Commissioner Yolanda Amen was absent. Commissioner Graves led the Pledge of Allegiance. The commission unanimously approved a one-year time extension for an approved vesting tentative map and approved a determination that the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026-2031 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) conforms to the Envision Stockton 2040 General Plan. Consent Calendar - Item 3.1 (26-0326) - One-Year Time Extension for TTLC Stockton-Asano LLC Subdivision Project (Application No. P25-0237), 4849 Carolyn Weston Boulevard: The commission approved Resolution 2026-04-23-0301, granting a one-year extension of the approved Vesting Tentative Map. Motion by Commissioner Jeff Sanguinetti, seconded by Commissioner Pandora Crowder. Vote passed 6-0, with Commissioner Amen absent. (Note: The transcript renders the project street name differently as "Carolina Western Ranch Boulevard"; the minutes' version, "Carolyn Weston Boulevard," is used here.) Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public submitted comments on any agenda item. Staff confirmed no blue cards (transcribed as "blue carts") were submitted, and the chair noted there were no public comments. Discussion Items - Item 6.1 (26-0438) - FY 2026-2031 Capital Improvement Program - Envision Stockton 2040 General Plan Conformity Determination: Staff (Mike) presented the item and recommended adoption of Resolution 2026-04-23-0601, finding that the draft 2026-2031 CIP covering FY 2026-27 through FY 2030-31 conforms to the Envision Stockton 2040 General Plan. Staff stated that the Planning Commission is the designated review authority for General Plan conformity under state and city regulations, while all other CIP decisions—including programming of funds, phasing of design, and timing of construction—are at the sole discretion of the City Council. - Staff described the CIP as a five-year plan of projects needed to maintain and improve the city's physical properties and implement the General Plan. Conformity policies cited included ensuring all neighborhoods have access to well-maintained public facilities and utilities, and providing roadways that safely and efficiently accommodate all modes of travel, including transit and bicycles. - Commissioner Crowder asked how project priorities for enhancements are determined. Staff clarified that prioritization is not the commission's role; the City Council ultimately decides priorities, often based on available funding. Staff noted that some projects in the five-year plan may never be completed, and gave examples including a park project identified in FY 2027, failing wastewater trunk lines that have exceeded their useful life and need replacement, and pump station upgrades. - Commissioner Oakes (rendered elsewhere in the transcript as "Oitz") provided feedback, not criticism, that the volume of information in the CIP is difficult to navigate. He suggested a one-page summary for each project listing the project, the anticipated date, and the specific General Plan policy it satisfies, noting that the resolution references policies such as TR 1.1 and LU 6.3 without mapping them to individual projects. He said this would improve transparency and clarity for commissioners and the public. - Staff acknowledged the feedback and explained that projects are grouped by categories including city facilities, buildings and structures, parks and open space, water supply, wastewater, storm drainage, and streets/transportation. Staff committed to providing more simplified yet accurate project descriptions in the future and offered to be available to commissioners outside the formal meeting forum. - Staff reiterated that the conformity determination is simply a document meeting state law and development code requirements, and that the commission's role is limited to assessing General Plan conformity, not approving project delivery timing. - Motion by Vice Chair Jeff Sanguinetti, seconded by Commissioner Derek Graves, to approve Resolution 2026-04-23-0601. The motion carried. Commissioner Comments & Reports - Commissioner Crowder thanked staff and Vice Chair Sanguinetti, praising his knowledge and joking that "the city of Stockton should be nervous" given the commissioner's command of the material. She also thanked everyone who worked on the CIP item. - A discussion followed regarding the recent Planning Academy training. A commissioner noted that state law has preempted certain charter city authorities, referenced a list of 72 state laws as a starting point, and stated that six or seven new items were raised at the planning committee in the past year. Staff offered to provide additional briefing information, and Commissioner Crowder suggested a brief debrief at a future "light night" agenda so commissioners who were unable to attend, including Commissioner Graves, could be brought up to speed. Staff reiterated their availability to support commissioners outside of meetings. - No unfinished business was on the agenda. Key Outcomes - Adopted Resolution 2026-04-23-0301 approving a one-year time extension for the TTLC Stockton-Asano LLC Vesting Tentative Map (6-0; Commissioner Amen absent). - Adopted Resolution 2026-04-23-0601 determining that the FY 2026-2031 Capital Improvement Program conforms to the Envision Stockton 2040 General Plan (moved by Commissioner Sanguinetti, seconded by Commissioner Graves). - Staff received informal direction to improve the readability and transparency of future CIP staff reports, including clearer project summaries tied to specific General Plan policies. - Staff agreed to provide additional information on Planning Academy topics to commissioners and to consider a future debrief at a lighter meeting. - The meeting was adjourned following a motion, with no further business.

The Stockton City Council met on April 14, 2026, beginning with a closed session at 3:31 PM (adjourned 5:00 PM) and reconvening in regular session at 5:31 PM. The meeting lasted until 12:17 AM the following morning. Major actions included awarding approximately $9.2 million in affordable housing loans, approving $6.57 million in mid-year budget adjustments, and hearing public testimony on whether to rename the Cesar Chavez Library. Consent Calendar - Approved 12.1: Accept committee minutes from Salary Setting Commission (Feb 11, Mar 12, Mar 27, 2026). - Approved 12.2: Approve City Council minutes from March 24 and March 31, 2026. - Approved 12.3 (7-0): Reject all bids for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion consulting services; city manager will hire an internal DEI officer instead. - Approved 12.4 (6-1): Authorize a three-year addendum (not-to-exceed $189,000) with Zencity Technologies for community engagement analytics; Councilmember Enríquez dissented citing lack of performance data. - Approved 12.5: Award $158,100 contract to Haley & Aldrich, Inc. for erosion control design at Delta Water Intake Pump Station (non-competitive exception). - Approved 12.6: Award $370,441 contract to Kleinfelder, Inc. for decommissioning multiple groundwater wells. - Approved 12.7: Establish guidelines for Council member conduct during labor negotiations per Meyers-Milias-Brown Act. - Approved 12.8 (6-0; Mayor Fugazi recused): Set public hearing for June 9, 2026 on Five Mile Slough Assessment District formation. - Approved 12.9 (7-0): Award $281,862 contract to Swierstok Enterprise for Grupe Park Pickleball Courts. - Approved 12.10, 12.11 (both 7-0): Preliminarily approve annual reports and budgets for Central Stockton Lighting District and Consolidated Landscape Maintenance District No. 96-2; set public hearings for June 9, 2026. - Approved 12.12: Award three-year fountain maintenance contract (not-to-exceed $468,070) to All Seasons Pool Service for Weber Point Events Center. - Approved 12.13: Approve $417,906.95 cooperative purchase for Regional Wastewater Control Facility roof replacement. - Approved 12.14 (7-0): Approve $3,131,674.79 cooperative purchases for two fire engines, one wildland engine, and one police Bearcat. Public Comments & Testimony - Cesar Chavez Library (Item 16.6): Ten speakers addressed the council: Alicia Ramirez (recommended an ad hoc committee and urged retaining the name or renaming to honor farm workers); Cynthia Gail Boyd (suggested renaming after Barack Obama); Inez Ruiz-Huston (proposed “Farm Workers’ Library” and urged community process); Yolanda Amen (supported keeping the name, citing collective movement); Regina Martin, Gail Stallworth, and Elaine Moonie (proposed renaming after Dr. Lewis D. Stallworth Sr.); Ralph White (shared personal history with Cesar Chavez and urged retaining the name). - Affordable Housing NOFA (Item 16.1): Many speakers supported the BRICS project (workforce housing) and Alicia’s Place (veteran housing), while others questioned the process and urged funding shovel-ready projects. - Other Public Comments: Included concerns about the Ask Stockton app, park maintenance (Stuart Gibson Park sign), support for climate action planning, and invitations to community events. Discussion Items - USS Lucid Presentation (16.3): Dave Rakovich, Stockton Maritime Museum, presented plans to restore the last wooden minesweeper and relocate it downtown. The project is 85% complete; no city funds requested. Council expressed strong support. - Affordable Housing Loan Awards (16.1): After a lengthy debate and multiple motions, the council voted 4-3 to fund three projects: - BRICS (downtown workforce housing, 40 units): $4,468,637 (including original $2.6M and $1.8M gap). - Alicia’s Place (veteran permanent supportive housing, 77 units): $3,100,000. - Danny Drive (senior housing, 54 units): remaining $1,611,201, contingent on breaking ground within two years or funds returning for reallocation. - A motion to approve staff's recommended projects (The Brix, Alicia’s Place, Danny Drive) failed 3-4. A motion to require Mayor Fugazi to recuse herself also failed 3-3 (Councilmember Padilla absent). - Miracle Mile Community Improvement District (16.4): Approved 7-0 the 2025 annual report and 2026 operating budget and assessments. - Stockton Tourism Business Improvement District (16.5): Approved 7-0 the 2025 annual report and 2026 budget and service plan. - FY 2025-26 Mid-Year Budget Adjustments (16.2): After discussion, council voted 7-0 to approve $1.1 million in time-sensitive items (Buckley Cove dredging ($500,000), legal costs ($475,000), SUSE Pool improvements, July 4th events, and SB 707 compliance). Remaining $1.8 million in general fund requests were referred to the Budget Committee. - Cesar Chavez Library Naming (16.6): Council received public testimony and voted 7-0 to continue the item to the next meeting, with no Council comments or further discussion. Key Outcomes - Housing Funding: Council diverged from staff recommendations, allocating $9,179,838 across three projects (BRICS, Alicia’s Place, Danny Drive) with a two-year deadline for Danny Drive. Voting: 4-3 (Fugazi, Villapudua, Padilla, Ponce yes; Blower, Enríquez, Lee no). - Mid-Year Budget: Only time-sensitive items approved; balance deferred to Budget Committee. - Cesar Chavez Library: Decision postponed to next Council meeting. - DEI Consulting: All bids rejected; city manager to hire internal DEI officer. - Zencity Technologies: Contract extended 6-1; Council will receive a performance update by August 2026. - Police Substations: Not funded at this meeting; Vice Mayor Lee pledged to reintroduce in seven months. - Administrative Matters: Council directed staff to bring back items on a face-covering ordinance (Vice Mayor Lee), a housing continuum presentation within 30 days (Lee), an RTD update (Lee), and a review of civil service hiring policies within 60 days (Councilmember Padilla).

The Stockton Planning Commission met on April 9, 2026, from 5:30 PM to 7:25 PM. The meeting included a consent calendar with two time extensions, a public hearing on a major residential project (Bear Creek South), and commissioner comments. The commission approved the Tra Vigne extensions (5-1) and recommended approval of the Bear Creek South project (4-1) to the City Council. Consent Calendar - Item 3.1 – Tra Vigne West Fourth Extension: Approved 5-1 (Commissioner Oakes dissenting). Commissioner Amen pulled the item for discussion. The applicant (Mike Hakeem) explained that economic conditions (interest rates, income-to-loan qualification) have delayed development, but infrastructure plans are progressing. The project has been extended since 2020. - Item 3.2 – Tra Vigne East Fourth Extension: Approved 5-1 (Oakes dissenting). Similar economic factors cited by the applicant as affecting both projects. Public Comments & Testimony - Michelle Lee (Attorney for Confederated Villages of Lisgen Nation): Spoke during the public hearing on Bear Creek South. She expressed concerns about the tribe’s exclusion from site visits and consultation, arguing that the project’s environmental review under CEQA Section 15183 did not adequately address tribal cultural resources. She requested site access and earlier tribal involvement, noting that the tribe has been on the contact list only recently and was not consulted during the General Plan update. She stated the tribe is not trying to stop the project but wants better measures to protect potential resources. Discussion Items - 5.1 – Bear Creek South Residential Project (2,241 units, 530 acres): Staff presented a request for pre-zoning, a development agreement, and three tentative maps (Klein, Tri Pointe, Arnaiz). The project is consistent with the 2040 General Plan and relies on a CEQA statutory exemption (Section 15183). Key public benefits include 27 acres of parks, 27 acres of open space, wellness walks, signalized intersections, and a land dedication valued at $4.15 million. The development agreement locks in fees for 10 years with possible extensions. - Tribal Consultation: The applicant’s team (Alicia Guerra) explained that the project incorporates measures from the General Plan EIR, including pre-construction subsurface testing with a tribal monitor and archaeologist. The Northern Valley Yokuts, the historically affiliated tribe, expressed support for the measures. The Lisgen Nation requested a site visit and earlier input, but the applicant stated that existing active agricultural use and safety concerns made immediate site visits infeasible; monitoring during construction was offered. Commissioners Crowder and Amen pressed for inclusion of the Lisgen Nation, and the applicant indicated they were open to a tribal monitor without specifying a particular tribe. - Commissioner Oakes’ Questions: Inquired about inconsistencies in the 15183 checklist regarding loss of natural lands and all-electric requirements. The applicant clarified that the project will be all-electric except for backup generators for stormwater basins. Oakes expressed support because the project is infill and consistent with the General Plan. Key Outcomes - Bear Creek South – Motion to Approve: Passed 4-1 (Commissioner Amen dissenting, Commissioner Sanguinetti recused, Commissioner Graves absent). The motion approved five resolutions: pre-zoning (RL, PF, OS), development agreement, and three tentative maps (Klein, Tri Pointe, Arnaiz), all subject to conditions. The commission also found no further environmental review necessary under CEQA. - Next Steps: The pre-zoning and development agreement recommendations will be forwarded to the City Council. The tentative map approvals are appealable within 10 days. - Commissioner Comments: Discussed improving community meeting notification (noticing tenants, expanding radius). Staff noted a code update is in progress to address tenant notification and a 500-foot notice radius (compromise from original 300-foot). - Adjournment: 7:25 PM.

The Stockton City Council met in regular session from 5:43 PM to 11:26 PM, following a closed session (3:30 PM - 4:35 PM) on labor negotiations and potential litigation. The council took action on a $3.15 million Flock drone-as-first-responder contract, approved $2.8 million in gap funding for the Fairview Terrace senior affordable housing project, advanced a Proposition 218 stormwater rate adjustment process, and received an informational update on police substations. All votes were 7-0 unless otherwise noted. Consent Calendar - Approved a $68,972.17 refund to Big Valley Ford Lincoln, Mercury, Inc. for business license tax. - Accepted the Quarterly Investment Report for the quarter ended December 31, 2025. - Authorized the City Attorney to accept deeds and grants of real property. - Confirmed Kathleen Hart to the Stockton Center Site Authority. - Approved minutes from seven previous council meetings (Jan 13, Jan 27, Feb 3, Feb 17, Feb 19, Mar 3, Mar 9, 2026). - Accepted a $126,997 Caltrans Clean California CCEP Grant for community cleanup and employment pathways. - Approved Judith Blumhorst as a public member to the Mossdale Tract Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District's Public Financing Authority. - Authorized a refund of $27,091.45 in planning fees to Ryan Van Groningen of Five Corners Group. - Appointed Amelia Lewis and Leonel Martinez to the Stockton Arts Commission. - Approved a MOU with San Joaquin County Sheriff's Office for subsurface search and recovery operations, including donation of Fire Department SCUBA equipment. - Approved a cooperative agreement for Sharp copier equipment and maintenance for $2,066,058.42 through 2032. - Entered into a contract with ESRI for professional services ($100,575) and authorized purchase authority for software maintenance ($186,823.42 through 2028). - Awarded two five-year contracts for water treatment chemicals: Univar Solutions ($4,755,300 for sodium hypochlorite) and Hill Brothers Chemical ($814,300 for aqueous ammonia). - Awarded a service contract for gym floor refinishing at community centers for $157,200 to Old Growth Sport Floors, Inc. Public Comments & Testimony - Consent item 12.17 (Flock Drone): Over a dozen speakers opposed the $3.15 million drone expansion, citing privacy concerns, ICE data sharing, racial bias in AI, and arguing funds should go to social services, youth programs, and hiring more police officers. One speaker satirically supported the program as "Mr. Flock Safety." A few speakers questioned the lack of data on success of existing Flock cameras. - General Public Comment (non-agenda): Speakers addressed topics including an Easter sunrise service, a youth-led roundtable on violence prevention, foster youth programs, autism awareness event, Cesar Chavez name controversy, ADA accommodations, and the need for more equitable investment in East Stockton parks. - Item 15.2 (Zoning Map Amendment): Mary Elizabeth criticized the proliferation of drive-throughs and lack of shade trees and bicycle parking. - Item 15.3 (Stormwater Rates): Several speakers supported the rate increase, emphasizing aging infrastructure and flood risk, while requesting more community education. - Item 16.1 (Affordable Housing NOFA): Jane Chamberlain urged funding the "Bricks" project for downtown workforce housing over more expensive projects with longer timelines. Peter Ragsdale highlighted senior housing plans at Danny Drive. - Item 16.4 (Police Substations): Western Ranch residents demanded the council honor its previous commitment to a substation in District 6, arguing the decision was already made and should not be reversed. Discussion Items - Flock Drone as First Responder System (Item 12.17): The council debated the $3.15 million amendment to add a drone system (separate from existing license plate cameras). Deputy Chief Pierce and Flock representative Lily Ho answered questions about response times (30 seconds to 4 minutes), data retention (30 days, city-owned), and guardrails preventing ICE access (a digital guardrail implemented March 2025 prevents out-of-state sharing). The city attorney confirmed no reportable action from closed session. The motion carried 7-0. - Entrepreneurship Ecosystem Building Program (Item 12.11): The council approved $307,290 in CDBG-funded agreements with three organizations (A Tavola, Uptima Cooperative, California Asian Pacific Chamber of Commerce) for small business support. Vice Mayor Lee requested future presentations on program outreach. - General Plan and Housing Element Annual Progress Reports (Item 15.1): Staff reported 716 new housing units in 2025, including 131 affordable units (27 extremely low, 66 very low, 38 low, 19 moderate). The city is not on pace to meet the 12,673-unit RHNA target but has exceeded the previous cycle's pace. The report was approved 7-0. - Zoning Map Amendment – West Lane/Morada Lane (Item 15.2): A 2.69-acre rezone from Commercial Neighborhood to Commercial General was approved 5-2 (Lee and Enríquez dissenting) to allow two drive-through fast-food restaurants (McDonald's confirmed, Starbucks not locked) and an 8,800 sq ft speculative commercial building. Councilmembers expressed concern about fast-food proliferation and the need for healthier options. - Stormwater Rate Adjustment – Proposition 218 Process (Item 15.3): The council voted 7-0 to move forward with a rate increase from $2.10/month to $8.10/month over five years, after a public hearing where only 45 written protests were received (0.05% of 84,871 mailed ballots, far below the 50%+1 needed for a majority protest). A ballot election will be held with a public hearing on June 9, 2026. Staff highlighted $285 million in capital needs and the risk of FEMA flood mapping if improvements are not made. - Affordable Housing NOFA Awards (Item 16.1): The council de-obligated $1.614 million from Sierra Vista Phase III (not moving forward) and approved $2.8 million in gap funding for Fairview Terrace senior housing (76 units, 55+, 30-60% AMI). The remaining $5 million for two Visionary Home Builders projects (Don Shelvy Apartments and The View at Channel) was tabled for future council presentation after Councilmember Enríquez requested all applicants have an opportunity to present. The motion to approve Fairview Terrace and defer the rest passed 7-0. - Police Substations Update (Item 16.4): Staff and police presented crime data comparing Districts 2, 5, and 6. Kentfield (District 2) had the highest violent crime; Van Buskirk (District 5) had the highest property crime; Weston Ranch (District 6) was lowest in both. Chief McFadden noted that opening new substations would pull officers from Special Enforcement Units (SEOs) handling quality-of-life issues, and that 31 officers are currently eligible for retirement. The item was informational only; no action was taken, but Vice Mayor Lee urged honoring the prior commitment to a Weston Ranch substation. - Single Audit FY 2023-24 (Item 16.3): The council accepted the Single Audit report with nine findings (four new, five repeated). Key issues included delays in bank reconciliations, payroll errors, and lack of documentation. CFO Garcia reported corrective actions including improved Tyler Munis implementation and monthly closings. Vice Mayor Lee requested a future agenda item to discuss a forensic audit previously authorized but not started. The motion carried 7-0. Key Outcomes - Approved $3,150,000 Flock Drone as First Responder system (7-0), with contract through April 14, 2031. First-year funding from a grant; cancellation allowed if future funding is not secured. - Approved $307,290 in entrepreneurship program agreements (7-0) using CDBG funds. - Approved $2,000,000 CalVIP grant (7-0) for violence prevention, adding 2 full-time and 2 part-time grant-funded positions. - Approved 2025 General Plan and Housing Element Annual Progress Reports (7-0) for submission to state by April 1. - Approved zoning map amendment (5-2) for McDonald's and speculative commercial development at West Lane/Morada Lane. - Advanced Proposition 218 stormwater rate increase (7-0) to ballot election; final adoption hearing set for June 9, 2026. - De-obligated $1,614,000 from Sierra Vista Phase III and awarded $2,800,000 gap funding for Fairview Terrace senior housing (7-0); tabled decision on remaining $5 million for two other projects for future meeting. - Accepted the Single Audit (7-0) with corrective action plan; council directed staff to agendize discussion on internal auditor versus external forensic audit. - Meeting extended to 11:30 PM (7-0) and adjourned at 11:26 PM.

The Stockton Planning Commission met on March 26, 2026, at 5:30 PM, with five commissioners present (Terry Hull, Yolanda Amen, Jeff Sanguinetti, Jazmine Hernandez, Robert Oakes) and two absent (Derek Graves, Pandora Crowder). The meeting adjourned at 7:53 PM. The commission considered three public hearing items: a heritage tree removal permit, a cannabis retail and delivery use permit, and an ordinance amendment to align the city's ADU regulations with state law. All substantive items were approved. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (December 11, 2025): Motion carried 4-0 (Commissioner Oakes abstained; Commissioners Graves and Crowder absent). Public Comments & Testimony - Mike Paige (Stockton resident) spoke regarding heritage tree removal. - Jasmine Peterson (Little Manila Rising) addressed virtual workshops. Discussion Items 5.2 Heritage Tree Removal Permit (7517 Park Woods Drive) - Proposal: Remove one Valley Oak tree causing damage to the property at 7517 Park Woods Drive (APN 077-182-07). - Action: The commission waived reading of commissioner correspondence (5-0) and then approved Resolution 2026-03-26-0502, finding the project categorically exempt from CEQA (Guidelines Section 15304(b)) and approving the permit with conditions, including required tree replacement. Motion carried 5-0. 5.1 Cannabis Retail Storefront and Delivery-Only Use Permit (4895 State Route 99 Frontage Road, Suite C) - Proposal: Applicants Dustin Moore and Lauren Carpenter (representing Embark) requested a Commission Use Permit for a cannabis retail storefront and an Administrative Use Permit for non-storefront retail (delivery-only) business at an existing building. The applicants described a business model emphasizing security (including one on-site guard, off-site monitoring cameras, and talk-down cameras), one weekly product delivery, and a voluntary 1% of gross revenue reinvested locally through an advisory board. Projected annual revenue between $3–10 million. Hours of operation: 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. - Public Testimony: Four speakers from the North Valley Labor Federation and UFCW Local 8 (Erica Heyne, Salvador Valencia, Sean Raycraft, Megan Romstadt) expressed full support for the project, highlighting the unionized workforce (collective bargaining agreement), fair wages, and community benefits. - Commissioner Discussion: Concerns were raised about security (number of guards), one-door entry/exit, potential loitering and smoking in parking lots, and proximity to family-oriented businesses. A Stockton Police Department lieutenant testified that cannabis businesses generate low call volumes and that open-container laws apply to marijuana similarly to alcohol. Commissioner Amen expressed hesitation about the location near businesses serving families. - Outcome: Vice Chair Sanguinetti moved to approve staff’s recommendation, including CEQA exemption and permit approvals. A proposed friendly amendment (requiring two guards and limiting product deliveries to once per week) was not accepted. The motion carried 4-0 (Commissioner Amen absent; Commissioners Graves and Crowder absent). 5.3 Ordinance Amendment: ADU/JADU State Law Compliance - Proposal: Staff presented an ordinance to amend Title 16 of the Stockton Municipal Code (Sections 16.80.310 and 16.244.010) to align with current state law regarding accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and junior ADUs (JADUs). Key changes include eliminating setbacks for conversions, clarifying rental/sale rules, adjusting height allowances (16, 18, or 25 feet), removing owner-occupancy requirements for JADUs with separate sanitation, allowing tandem parking, and updating references to state codes. - Discussion: Vice Chair Sanguinetti raised concerns about permit processing times (state-mandated 60-day turnaround) and the need to expedite approvals to address affordability. Staff noted the city’s Pro-Housing designation, waived impact fees for ADUs, and pre-approved plan options. Commissioner Oakes clarified that many fees (e.g., county, school) are beyond city control but that the city’s own fees are waived. - Outcome: Resolution 2026-03-26-0503 was approved 5-0, recommending city council adoption of the ordinance. Key Outcomes - Heritage Tree Removal Permit: Approved (5-0) with conditions for replacement. - Cannabis Use Permit: Approved (4-0) for a retail storefront and delivery-only operation at the specified location. - ADU Ordinance Amendment: Approved (5-0) to bring local code into compliance with state law, advancing housing element implementation. - Reports: Assistant Director Michael McDowell commended Planner Sarah Bruce-Eisen, introduced Deputy City Attorney Tatiana Altman, and highlighted the Planning Commissioner Academy and pre-approved ADU plans. - Commissioner Comments: Chair Hull noted state preemption concerns; Commissioner Amen requested grace from colleagues given her newness; Commissioner Oakes inquired about objective design standards and the public process for the upcoming code overhaul.

The Stockton City Council held a special closed session meeting on March 24, 2026, at 5:00 PM in the Council Chamber. The sole purpose was to discuss existing litigation. All seven council members were present: Michael Blower, Brando Villapudua, Michele Padilla, Christina Fugazi, Mariela Ponce, Mario Enríquez, and Jason Lee. The meeting adjourned at 6:05 PM with no public comment and no action reported from the closed session. Consent Calendar - None. Public Comments & Testimony - None. Discussion Items - Closed Session Item 3.1 – Conference with Legal Counsel – Existing Litigation: The council convened in closed session at 5:01 PM pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1) to discuss the pending litigation Shakeel Samuel Carpenter aka "Sam Carpenter" v. City of Stockton, et al. (San Joaquin County Superior Court Case No. STK-CV-UNM-2026-1934). No substantive discussion was disclosed. Key Outcomes - No action was taken in closed session, as reported by the city council upon reconvening. - The meeting was adjourned at 6:05 PM.

On March 9, 2026, the Stockton City Council held a special meeting to consider a resolution authorizing the city to submit an application on behalf of the University of the Pacific (UOP) for federal Community Project Funding (CPF) for a new medical school in Stockton. The meeting lasted from 5:03 PM to 5:23 PM. Councilmember Mario Enríquez recused himself due to his employment with UOP. Councilmember Mariela Ponce was absent. The resolution passed unanimously (5-0). Consent Calendar - No items were on the consent calendar. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Discussion Items - Item 3.1: Resolution 2026-03-09-0301 – Authorizing the City of Stockton to submit an application on behalf of UOP for FY27 Community Project Funding for a medical school, and to serve as fiscal agent. - Presentation by UOP President Christopher Callahan: He outlined the severe health care disparities in Stockton and the Central Valley, noting that every county south of Sacramento and north of Los Angeles falls below the minimum physicians per capita. He cited that California has 12 MD-granting nonprofit medical schools, with nine in Southern California and only three in Northern California, and none in the Central Valley. The last new medical school in Northern California was UC Davis nearly 60 years ago. UOP aims to open a 400-student medical school by fall 2030, becoming one of only 24 U.S. universities with schools of medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, and health sciences. A study by UOP’s Center for Business and Policy estimated a direct economic impact of over $800 million in the first 10 years for Stockton and San Joaquin County, and $1.3 billion for the region, not including research and health savings. The federal grant would cover specialized equipment. UOP has already secured approximately $70 million in earmarked funds and has land on its 175-acre campus for the school. - Councilmember Michele Padilla asked about next steps and location. Callahan responded that the timeline includes accreditation (arduous, with fall 2030 as the earliest) and that the school will be built on the existing campus, with six possible locations under consideration. - Councilmember Michael Blower called the proposal a “no-brainer” and emphasized economic development benefits. - Vice Mayor Jason Lee (participating via teleconference) shared a personal story about his sister who did pre-med at UOP but had to go to Howard University for medical school. He asked about the city’s role post-application. The city manager explained that the city acts as a pass-through fiscal agent, with no ongoing oversight beyond filing the application. - Councilmember Brando Villapudua expressed support, noting the creation of jobs for surgeons, doctors, and local businesses. - Mayor Christina Fugazi highlighted the potential for local students to stay in Stockton for their entire education and careers, and noted that the medical school would change the city’s perception. Key Outcomes - Resolution 2026-03-09-0301 was approved by a vote of 5-0. Voting yes: Michael Blower, Brando Villapudua, Michele Padilla, Christina Fugazi, and Jason Lee. Recused: Mario Enríquez. Absent: Mariela Ponce. - The City of Stockton will submit the CPF application for UOP’s medical school and serve as fiscal agent if funding is appropriated. - The meeting adjourned at 5:23 PM.

The Stockton City Council met on March 3, 2026, for a closed session (1:00-4:48 PM) and regular session (5:30-9:44 PM). Key actions included the appointment of a new city attorney, approval of numerous consent items, a contentious budget discussion revealing unauthorized fund transfers, and emotional public testimony on public safety and homelessness. Consent Calendar - 20 items approved en bloc, with 12 items pulled for separate votes, all passing 7-0 (or 6-0 with one absence). Notable separated items included: - Appointment of Donald Tafoya to Strong Communities Advisory Committee (partial term ending Jan 2027). - Appointment of Patricia Lopez to Measure A Citizens’ Advisory Committee (term ending Jan 2029). - Joint Community Facilities Agreement with County and Catellus for Airpark 599, enabling water/sewer infrastructure without general fund impact. - Amendment to Project Sentinel contract ($215,000) to add tenant-landlord mediation services; council requested expanded outreach and data sharing. - Collective bargaining resolution (Item 12.8): Council approved appointment of a chief negotiator but tabled sections on council conduct with labor groups until further discussion with all nine employee organizations. - Rejection of bids for Grupe Park pickleball courts; staff will rebid, with award expected April 14, 2026. - Purchase of 133 post-top solar lights ($493,501) for Western Ranch greenbelt, replacing copper wire models. - Murray Ranch property tax allocation agreement: changed from 90/10 (county/city) to 60/40, projected to increase city general fund revenue. Public Comments & Testimony - Donald Tafoya criticized city spending and requested access to the city charter. - Lee Taylor advocated for public beach volleyball courts. - Jesse Mejia proposed a 90-day plan to humanely relocate 60% of homeless individuals for under $1.25 million, urging a nonprofit registration ordinance to curb illegal dumping. - Patrick Peterson, father of mass shooting victim Amari Peterson, expressed grief over lack of follow-up from Mayor and City Manager, demanding accountability and resources to find the shooter. - Cynthia Gale Boyd accused Mayor Fugazi of inaction on her safety concerns and disparaged the recognition of Motecuzoma Sanchez. - Barbara King raised issues about San Joaquin RTD bus service disruptions after CEO Alex Clifford’s termination, alleging $62 million in Measure K funds were withheld. - Jasmine Peterson (Little Manila Rising) promoted the Climate Action Plan survey (extended deadline) and a March 21, 2026 launch party at Civic Auditorium. - Patrick High (Police Officers Association president) alleged political motivation behind the collective bargaining resolution, calling it a move to silence opposition. - Linda Christofferson (Grupe Park pickleball group) urged swift construction of new pickleball courts. Discussion Items - City Attorney Appointment (Item 16.4): Council appointed Marcy Arredondo as City Attorney (7-0) with a three-year term, $315,000 annual salary, plus benefits (30 vacation days, $7,000 professional development, $250/month tech, $500/month vehicle allowance, 9% deferred compensation). The recruitment process included a 45-day statewide search. - FY2025-26 Annual Budget (Item 16.2): CFO Gilbert Garcia presented the $982 million citywide budget ($328 million general fund). Council accepted the status report but directed staff to amend the budget to accurately reflect the elimination of the Office of Performance Data Analytics (OPDA) and the creation of the Office of Optic. Vice Mayor Lee revealed that OPDA’s three positions and funds were moved to the city manager’s administration budget without council approval, calling it a “slush fund.” Council demanded corrected line items and a full accounting of Optic’s costs. - Update on Council Referrals (Item 16.3): City Attorney reported that referrals for Hunter House, Sutter, BRICS, and BCHIP were sent to the Attorney General, District Attorney, and Grand Jury on January 13, 2026, with additional records sent February 26, 2026. Informational only. Key Outcomes - Marcy Arredondo appointed City Attorney (7-0). - Budget report accepted; staff directed to return with an amended FY2025-26 budget correcting OPDA/Optic funding discrepancies. - Collective bargaining resolution partially approved; council conduct provisions deferred to next meeting. - All consent items approved as separated votes. - Council directed staff to increase outreach for tenant-landlord mediation services and to report data on calls and outcomes. - City Manager to follow up with Office of Violence Prevention regarding family of Amari Peterson. - Upcoming meetings: Audit Committee (March 16, 2026); Safer Stockton Coalition (March 26, 2026); homeless ad hoc committee (March 5, 2026).