This special study session of the Stockton City Council was held on Monday, October 6, 2025, from 3:31 PM to 5:23 PM. The meeting focused on two informational items: the Notice of Funding Available (NOFA) process and a proposed Stockton Safe Grounds 1-2-3 Model for addressing homelessness. No formal votes or actions were taken; the session was intended for discussion and feedback. Public Comments & Testimony - Mary Elizabeth thanked the council for holding the study session, noted that community lighting issues have been addressed, and encouraged use of the Ask Stockton tool. She later suggested recording Community Development Committee meetings and posting materials 72 hours in advance, and proposed that eligible applicants give public presentations as part of scoring. - Pat Barrett advocated for recording workshops, suggested improvements to the reading room process (e.g., scheduling visits), and emphasized the need for deeper training on housing finance, including matching funds and tax credits. He also recommended allowing a brief grace period during technical review for missing documents. Discussion Items - Item 3.1: NOFA Process – Director of Economic Development Tina McCarty presented an overview of the city's effort to systematize the NOFA process, including annual issuance, mandatory workshops, technical review, and objective scoring. Key topics included organizational capacity requirements (e.g., separation of duties), conflict of interest risks, financial readiness, and the challenge of monitoring compliance. Councilmembers discussed the need for clearer communication with applicants, the value of recording workshops, and the desire to improve the reading room access for council review. The scoring breakdown for housing projects was shared (e.g., 5% weight for financial readiness as a tiebreaker). - Item 3.2: Stockton Safe Grounds 1-2-3Model – Councilmember Michele Padilla presented a three-option model for unsheltered residents: (1) directing individuals to existing services (e.g., St. Mary's Shelter, Gospel Rescue Mission); (2) a low‑barrier safe sleeping/parking site run by a contracted operator; (3) voluntary relocation assistance for those from outside Stockton. She stressed the need for partnerships with nonprofits and community‑based organizations, and noted lessons learned from visits to San Diego and Modesto. Councilmembers expressed strong support but raised questions about police presence, site placement (not concentrating in one district), and coordination with county resources. The discussion included the importance of pet services and tough‑love enforcement. Key Outcomes - The NOFA presentation resulted in council feedback but no action; a formal vote on the proposed NOFA process is scheduled for the November4 ,2025 city council meeting. - The Safe Grounds1-2-3model was received as informational; Councilmember Padilla will continue working with staff, United Way, and other stakeholders to refine the proposal and seek funding sources. No immediate actions were taken.
Public Meetings - Stockton, California
Public Meetings - Stockton, CaliforniaThe City Council of Stockton held a special closed session on October 6, 2025, at 1:00 PM in the Council Chamber at City Hall. The sole agenda item was a discussion on the recruitment of the City Manager, authorized under Government Code section 54957. No public comments were made. Councilmember Michele Padilla arrived at 1:02 PM, after roll call. Vice Mayor Jason Lee participated via teleconference from New York, and Councilmember Mario Enríquez participated via teleconference from Los Angeles. The council adjourned to closed session at 1:03 PM and reconvened at 2:41 PM with no action reported. The meeting adjourned at 2:41 PM.
The Stockton City Council met in closed session at 3:30 PM and regular session at 5:30 PM on September 23, 2025. The meeting included proclamations, public comments, the consent calendar, public hearings, and new business items. The council debated and voted on contested items including ad hoc committee policy, waiver of attorney-client privilege, employee health insurance rates, and the formation of a transparency office. The meeting adjourned at 11:54 PM. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda with a single vote (7-0) except for items pulled individually: 12.1, 12.2, 12.3, 12.4, 12.5, 12.9, 12.11, 12.17, 12.18, 12.19, 12.20, 12.21. - Items 12.1 and 12.2 were moved to new business (16.1). - Noteworthy consent items approved unanimously: - 12.7: Grant of easements to Union Pacific Railroad for the Stockton Diamond Grade Separation Project. - 12.8: Declaration of surplus land at 6461 Brookside Road. - 12.10: Professional services agreement with George Hills as third-party administrator for general liability program ($2,504,768.64 over five years). - 12.12: Construction contract for Alexandria & Fourteen Mile Storm Pump Station electrical upgrades ($381,497). - 12.13: Resolution opposing the Delta Conveyance (Delta Tunnel) project. - 12.14: Amendment with Hard Luck Animal Welfare Advocates ($789,389). - 12.15: Professional services contract for Citywide Streetlight Assessment ($249,976). - 12.16: Construction contract for street slurry seal ($819,325). - 12.22: Amendment for Safe Routes to School Sidewalk Gap Closure Phase 2 ($410,746). Public Comments & Testimony - Matters Not on the Agenda: - Pat Barrett criticized council transparency and vote independence. - Donald Tafoya questioned council efficiency and referenced a dispute between Vice Mayor Lee and Mayor Fugazi. - Sharee Wilburn Grimes requested removal of Strong Communities Commissioner Natasha Brown for alleged misconduct. - Mary Elizabeth raised non-compliance with Statement of Economic Interest (Form 700) for Climate Action Plan Advisory Committee members, and concerns about tobacco/alcohol license ordinances. - Jose Galvan (downtown business owner) asked for free parking validation to support downtown businesses. - Chris Berry demanded more enforcement against homeless encampments, unlicensed RVs, and sidewalk hazards caused by city trees. - Dan Richardson praised the Stockton Police Department Community Academy and urged support for officer contracts. - Darla Savceda described losing her trailer and belongings during a homeless sweep, asking for better resources. - Alex Lima (Trust for Public Land) invited council to the Reinvent South Stockton Resident Summit on October 11, 2025. - Specific Agenda Items: - Mary Elizabeth spoke on items 12.7, 12.13, 12.19, 12.20, 15.2, 15.3, and 16.2, raising concerns about community benefits, support for the Delta Tunnel opposition, public engagement in design projects, sidewalk priority, water quality for Cal Water customers, and lack of noticing for CAPER reports. - Three SCA union members (Jenny Hernandez, Christina Nealy, Alexandria Salgado) opposed the 35% health premium increase, calling it unsustainable. - Lan Phuong Nguyen asked the city to inform residents about water treatment options to reduce bottled water use. Discussion Items - 12.3 – Amendment to Council Policy Manual (Ad Hoc Committees): Councilmember Padilla questioned subjective criteria like “expertise” and “unbiased,” and required written reports. Initial motion failed (3-4). After reconsideration (7-0), a modified motion passed (4-3) giving ad hoc committees discretion to submit a report. - 12.4 – Waiver of Privilege for July 30, 2025 Emails: Council debated releasing emails from the city attorney to council. Vice Mayor Lee argued it was needed for a Brown Act investigation submitted to the District Attorney. Motion passed (4-3). - 12.5 – Appointment to Water Advisory Group: Councilmember Blower highlighted the voluntary application process. Appointment of Katrina Bambula-Santos approved (7-0). - 12.9 – 2026 Employee Health Plans: After public testimony and discussion, council approved (7-0) the premium rates with a condition that staff explore offsetting costs and report back within 60 days. - 12.11 – Employee Assistance Program Contract: Approved (7-0) with comments that usage shows positive ROI. - 12.17 – Debris Removal Change Order: Approved (7-0). - 12.18 – Stop Control Intersection (Country Club & Wisconsin): Approved (7-0). - 12.19 – Alpine Pershing Mendocino Bicycle-Pedestrian Connectivity: Approved (7-0). - 12.20 – Citywide Sidewalk Repair: Councilmember Lee expressed concern about equity in sidewalk repair requests. Approved (7-0). - 12.21 – ADA Curb Ramp Installation: Approved (7-0). - 15.1 – Formation of Community Facilities District No. 2025-1 (Cannery Park East): Approved (7-0) after public hearing; ballots counted in favor. - 15.2 – 2025 Water Quality Public Health Goals Report: Approved (7-0) after public hearing. - 15.3 – FY 2024-2025 Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER): Approved (7-0); staff will incorporate public comments. - 16.1 – Independent Audit of ACFR (FY 2023-24): Accepted (7-0) after presentation by the Pun Group. Discussion highlighted that expenses outpace revenues and the importance of Measure A. - 16.2 – Office of Public Transparency Information Communication (OPTIC): PIO Tony Manor presented the new office, its $926,487 annual budget, and focus on ADA compliance by April 2026. Councilmembers pressed for measurable outcomes. Vice Mayor Lee requested a plan with trackable results by November 18, 2025. - 16.3 – Fire Hydrant Maintenance Update: Deputy Director Travis Small reported 99.78% of city hydrants are operable. Discussion on tampering and coordination with Cal Water. Key Outcomes - Ad Hoc Policy (12.3): Initial motion to adopt failed 3-4 (Blower, Enríquez, Lee yes; Fugazi, Villapudua, Padilla, Ponce no). Reconsideration motion passed 7-0. Modified resolution passed 4-3 (Blower, Padilla, Enríquez, Lee yes; Fugazi, Villapudua, Ponce no). - Waiver of Privilege (12.4): Resolution passed 4-3 (Blower, Padilla, Enríquez, Lee yes; Fugazi, Villapudua, Ponce no). - Health Plan Rates (12.9): Motion approved 7-0 with condition to study cost offsets within 60 days. - OPTIC Plan (16.2): Council informally agreed to request a measurable plan from staff by November 18, 2025. - All other votes were unanimous 7-0 unless noted. - Adjournment: 11:54 PM.
The Planning Commission convened on September 11, 2025, at 5:31 PM. The meeting included public comments on air quality and warehouse development, a postponed item for the South Stockton Commerce Center, and a public hearing on a code amendment to implement the 2023-2031 Housing Element. The commission voted 6-1 to recommend the amendment to City Council, with one commissioner dissenting. Public Comments & Testimony - Mary Elizabeth spoke about CEQA notification and requested improved public outreach, such as an "Ask Stockton" notification category, and voiced concerns about the city relying on minimal notification requirements. - Pat Barrett, a District 6 resident, urged commissioners to research the warehouse ordinance and the air quality issues in South Stockton (AB 617 area, TCC, ranked 10th in state for worst air congestion). She requested strong representation against warehousing for District 6. - Matthew Lester expressed deep concern about air quality and public health impacts of potential warehouse development, noting his brother's asthma and Stockton's poor air quality. Discussion Items - Item 5.2: City-Initiated Ordinance Amending Title 16 (Housing Element Compliance) – Staff presented a minor code amendment to meet state requirements. The amendment adds a footnote to the land use table (Table 2-2) ensuring that housing projects with at least 20% affordable units are allowed by right (no discretionary review), except for subdivision maps which remain discretionary. This implements Program 3 of the certified 2023-2031 Housing Element, addressing repeat vacant sites from previous cycles. - Commissioners debated concerns about enforcement of affordability requirements, potential for developers to renege on affordable units, and the definition of affordable housing. Staff clarified that the law already exists at the state level and this codification removes hurdles. The city is already pro-housing by allowing multifamily by right in many zones. Only about 20-30 repeat sites are affected. Key Outcomes - The commission approved Resolution 2025-09-11-0502 by a vote of 6-1 (moved by Terry Hull, seconded by Jeff Sanguinetti). Voting yes: Hull, Graves, Muetzenberg, Amen, Sanguinetti, Hernandez. Voting no: Pandora Crowder. The resolution finds no further CEQA review required and recommends adoption of the ordinance amending SMC Title 16, Chapter 16.20, Section 16.20.020 to City Council. - Commissioner Crowder dissented, expressing concern that the amendment does not include enforcement mechanisms to ensure the 20% affordable units are actually built. Commissioner Comments - Chair Sanguinetti clarified the reasoning behind a one-minute public comment limit and encouraged written suggestions for improving notifications. - Commissioner Crowder thanked staff and SPD for shutting down an unlicensed smoke shop, and suggested using the "Ask Stockton" app for CEQA document notifications. - Commissioner Amen requested an informational item on the history of the 300-foot notification radius and the potential impact of expanding it to 700 feet. Staff agreed to provide baseline information at a future meeting. Adjournment The meeting adjourned at 6:32 PM.
This summary covers the September 9, 2025 meeting of the Stockton City Council, which convened in closed session at 4:02 p.m., returned from closed session at 5:15 p.m., and held its regular session from 5:33 p.m. to 9:35 p.m. in the Council Chamber at City Hall, 425 N. El Dorado Street, Stockton, California. No separate agenda was provided in the source materials, so item descriptions are drawn from the official minutes and raw transcript. Closed Session - The council held a closed session under Government Code sections 54956.9(d)(1), 54956.9(d)(4), and labor negotiator authority. No public comment was taken. - Report of closed session action: The council voted unanimously to settle Yeng Xiong v. Manuel Ortiz, et al. (San Joaquin County Superior Court Case No. STK-CV-UAT-2022-4637) for $150,000. - The council also authorized the initiation of litigation on a 5-2 vote, with Mayor Fugazi and Councilmember Villapudua dissenting. Details may be disclosed after the action formally commences. - Note: The agenda listed the initiation of litigation under Government Code section 54956.9(d)(4), while the reported closed-session action cited section 54957.1(a)(2). Recognitions and Informational Updates - Recognized 404 Cryptos Not Found, the first-place college division team from the 2025 H2O Hackathon. The team presented WaterGuard, a water-conservation app and valve system, and reported winning $2,000. - Received an update from Assembly District 13 representative Jasmine Gutierrez. Since taking office in December 2024, Assemblymember Rhodesia Ransom has authored 12 bills, sent AB 696 and AB 1042 to the governor, secured $10 million for the California Family Justice Center, secured $8 million with Senator McNerney for Beam Circular's Bioeconomy Innovation Campus, and helped constituents recover $410,000. - Proclaimed September 12, 2025 as AVID Day. Speakers noted that 40 Stockton Unified schools implement AVID, that AVID alumni are four times more likely to graduate from college, and that 42% of first-generation low-income AVID students earn a four-year degree within six years versus 11% nationally. - Proclaimed September 14-20, 2025 as National Forensic Science Appreciation Week, honoring Stockton Police evidence technicians and supervisors. Consent Calendar - The consent calendar was approved 6-0, with Councilmember Padilla absent, for the items not pulled for separate consideration. The separately considered items are summarized under Discussion Items. - Approved Resolution 2025-09-09-1203 authorizing the summary vacation of a portion of public right-of-way along Navy Drive, reserving a public utility easement, declaring the property exempt surplus land, and filing CEQA Notice of Exemption No. 35-25. - Approved Resolution 2025-09-09-1204 allocating $1,244,210 in Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention Program funding to St. Mary's Community Services for the Pathways Neighborhood operation. Public Comments and Testimony - General public comment included: Adriana Cruces asked the city to support Latino/Hispanic Heritage Month and youth arts programs, noting that 45% of city residents are Latino/Hispanic and that there are no murals in North Stockton. Matthew Lester supported Patricia Barrett and called her removal retaliation. Pat Barrett alleged retaliation and said she felt targeted and unsafe. Donald Tafoya criticized council conduct. Mary Elizabeth described being bitten by dogs and said the city has 14,474 dog licenses and 2,098 cat licenses for a population over 320,000, urging that animal control be separated from the police department. Alyssa Leiva asked for police transparency, community advisory board reform, and de-escalation. Cynthia Gail Boyd complained about respect and representation. Mark Stebbins connected the Northeast Stockton Library naming controversy to historical racism and urged affirmations of all ethnicities. Andy Abbott urged full implementation of Civil Grand Jury findings and campaign-disclosure reforms. Chinse Daniels praised the council's diversity. Lanphuong Nguyen thanked councilmembers for a town hall and said volunteer commissioners feared removal. - Item-specific public testimony is summarized under the relevant Discussion Items below. Discussion Items Item 12.1 - Climate Action Plan Advisory Committee Removal and Appointment - The item proposed removing Patricia Barrett and appointing Kristine Williams to the seven-member committee for a four-year term effective immediately and ending January 31, 2029. - Public speakers, including committee chair Julie Dunning, opposed the removal, saying Barrett was the only member from South Stockton and the AB 617 area and that the removal appeared retaliatory. Dunning suggested adding Williams without removing Barrett or creating a nine-member committee. Pat Barrett, David Sengthay, Mary Elizabeth, and Alyssa Leiva echoed concerns about transparency, representation, and a chilling effect on volunteers. Cynthia Gail Boyd also defended Barrett. - Councilmember Blower moved to add Williams to an eight-person committee without removing Barrett, with Councilmember Enríquez seconding. Under Rosenberg's Rules of Order, the later motion was voted on first, so no vote was taken on the Blower motion. - Mayor Fugazi defended the removal, citing her appointment authority and Williams' South Stockton housing and environmental work. Councilmembers Blower, Enríquez, and Lee opposed removal, citing lack of a stated reason and loss of District 6 representation. Councilmember Villapudua supported removal, citing rules for commissioner conduct; Councilmember Padilla said the mayor was exercising policy discretion. - Final Resolution 2025-09-09-1201 passed 4-3. Yes: Fugazi, Villapudua, Padilla, Ponce. No: Blower, Enríquez, Lee. Item 12.2 - Downtown Stockton Master Plan and Visioning Project - Jane Chamberlain spoke in support of downtown revitalization but urged the city to build on prior plans and not delay permit-ready housing. Mary Elizabeth urged that displacement avoidance be central and that multiple study sessions and draft-section reviews be held. - Staff said past plans would be incorporated, existing pipeline projects would not be delayed, and the contract includes substantial public outreach. - Resolution 2025-09-09-1202 passed 7-0, awarding Wallace Roberts and Todd, LLC a professional services agreement not to exceed $1,027,340, authorizing a $154,965 budget amendment from the Redevelopment Sub-fund balance, and authorizing the City Manager to execute the agreement. Item 12.5 - Advanced Life Support Services Agreement with San Joaquin County - The council authorized a new five-year non-transport Advanced Life Support services agreement with San Joaquin County for continued service by the Stockton Fire Department. - Fire Chief Brian Carr said the department needs roughly 55-60 paramedics to place one on every fire apparatus. It currently has 57, with over 60% at captain rank and only 9 of 75 firefighters holding paramedic certification. He noted competitive recruiting and retention challenges but said the agreement could be executed. - Motion 2025-09-09-1205 passed 7-0. Item 12.6 - 2025-2031 Sewer System Management Plan Updates - Mary Elizabeth, a registered environmental health specialist, asked why only one reclamation district receives sanitary sewer overflow notifications and requested regular updates to the Water Advisory Group. Staff said they would check the notification issue and would provide periodic reporting. - Resolution 2025-09-09-1206 passed 7-0, approving the 2025-2031 Sewer System Management Plan updates required by the State Water Resources Control Board. Item 12.7 - El Dorado Street Pedestrian and Bicyclist Safety Connectivity Project - Mary Elizabeth commented on bike parking, maintenance of bike lanes, and contract cost overruns. Staff said the project includes public outreach and that base failures will be repaired before final roadway improvements. - Resolution 2025-09-09-1207 passed 7-0, transferring $35,000 from the Grant Match project, approving an exception to competitive bidding under Stockton Municipal Code section 3.68.070, and awarding a $348,775.95 design contract to Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. for Project No. WT23039/HSIPL-5008(210). Item 12.8 - Van Buskirk Park Revitalization Project - Public comment included Mary Elizabeth's concerns about CEQA notification practices; Artie Valencia of Restore the Delta expressed support for the project but asked for water-access infrastructure, a humane engagement plan for unhoused residents, and an anti-displacement strategy; Mark Stebbins advocated restoring Van Buskirk as a full golf course; Cynthia Gail Boyd credited former Councilmember Kimberly Warmsley and asked for improvements to Stribley Park. - Councilmember Villapudua described phase one amenities including a skate park, bicycle pump track, splash pad, community garden, and multi-purpose lawn. Staff said the park is about 192 acres and that engagement since 2020 included six stakeholder meetings, four community meetings, and two surveys, with design at 60%. - Resolution 2025-09-09-1208 passed 7-0, adopting the Final Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration for the Van Buskirk Park Revitalization, Project No. WT24050. Item 16.1 - 2025 Parks and Recreation Master Facilities Plan - Director Stephanie Ocasio presented the draft plan, explaining that it is a facility infrastructure plan tied to development impact fees and AB 1600, not a recreation programming plan. The plan relies on surveys and community input, and the Parks and Recreation Commission recommended approval on July 28, 2025. - Vice Mayor Lee said he was not comfortable voting on a document he had not reviewed. Councilmember Villapudua asked about potential fee impacts. Mary Elizabeth cited park comparisons: Stockton has about 320,000 residents, 1,142 park acres, and $790,000 per year in maintenance, while Sacramento has about 528,000 residents, 4,205 acres, and $1,300,000 per year. - The council voted 7-0 to continue the item to October 14, 2025, and directed staff to provide copies to councilmembers and local libraries. Item 16.2 - Response to Civil Grand Jury Report, City of Stockton Crisis in Government - The council considered its third and final response to the San Joaquin County Civil Grand Jury report. The response covers recommendation R1.2 on workplace violence and threatening communications, R2.3 on Brown Act investigation findings being provided to the grand jury within seven days through new Council Policy 3.15, and a modified R3.1 reflecting the city's intent to issue an RFP for a new external city auditor whose scope includes monitoring and investigating the fraud, waste, and abuse hotline. - Public speakers David Sengthay, Lecia Harrison, Alyssa Leva, Pat Barrett, and Cynthia Gail Boyd raised concerns about the influence of 209 Times, transparency, retaliation, and the cost and independence of investigations. Some supported third-party review, while others questioned whether the district attorney or state Attorney General should be involved. - Resolution 2025-09-09-1602 adopting Council Policy Chapter 3.15 on Brown Act Investigations passed 7-0. Motion 2025-09-09-1602 approving the final grand jury response and authorizing the City Attorney to submit it passed 7-0. - Note: Source materials are slightly inconsistent, referring to the report as the 2023-24 Civil Grand Jury Report while one attachment is labeled 2024-25, and one motion cites Case No. 1023 while the agenda title says Case 0123. City Manager's Update and Council Comments - Acting City Manager Will Crew announced Monster Mash at Pixie Woods on October 25 and a September 25 groundbreaking for the Delta water treatment plant groundwater recharge project. - Councilmember comments included announcements about the September 11 remembrance, district office hours, recycling events, community meetings, infrastructure updates, and parks projects. Councilmember Blower requested a moment of silence for Terry Hull Sr. and Dr. Elizabeth Blanchard. Vice Mayor Lee gave staff direction to prepare a presentation on the Hunter House funding history; the council seconded the request. - Mayor Fugazi reported smoke-shop enforcement results, including the seizure of 2,445 flavored vapes worth $67,000, and discussed the Delta Conveyance Project, street improvements, and red-light camera enforcement. Key Outcomes - Closed session: settled Yeng Xiong v. Manuel Ortiz for $150,000 unanimously and authorized initiation of litigation 5-2. - Consent calendar remaining items: approved 6-0. - Item 12.1: removed Patricia Barrett and appointed Kristine Williams to the Climate Action Plan Advisory Committee, Resolution 2025-09-09-1201, 4-3. - Item 12.2: awarded Downtown Stockton Master Plan contract to Wallace Roberts and Todd, LLC, 7-0. - Item 12.5: approved five-year ALS agreement with San Joaquin County, 7-0. - Item 12.6: approved 2025-2031 Sewer System Management Plan, 7-0. - Item 12.7: awarded El Dorado Street safety design contract to Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc., 7-0. - Item 12.8: adopted Mitigated Negative Declaration for Van Buskirk Park Revitalization, 7-0. - Item 16.1: continued Parks and Recreation Master Facilities Plan to October 14, 2025, 7-0. - Item 16.2: adopted Council Policy 3.15 and approved the final Civil Grand Jury response, both 7-0. - The meeting adjourned at 9:35 p.m.
The Stockton Planning Commission met on August 28, 2025, at 5:30 PM. Six commissioners were present (Terry Hull, William Muetzenberg, Yolanda Amen, Jeff Sanguinetti, Pandora Crowder, Jazmine Hernandez); Commissioner Derek Graves was absent. The sole agenda item was a continued public hearing for a Commission Use Permit to establish a cannabis retail storefront at 5066 West Lane. After presentations, public comment, and deliberation, two motions both failed 3-3, leaving the permit denied. The meeting adjourned at 7:15 PM. Consent Calendar - None. Public Comments & Testimony - One member of the public, Pat, spoke in opposition, citing crime statistics, personal experience with cannabis, and urging the commission to consider the views of the district's council member (Ponte). Pat stated that the council member was against the project and that the commission should respect that representative's position. Discussion Items - Item 5.1: Use Permit for Cannabis Retail Storefront at 5066 West Lane - Staff presented the project as a relocation of an existing permit from 2521 West Lane. The proposed location is in the Village of Weber Ranch Shopping Center, a commercial general zone. Staff found the project met all location restrictions (over 300 feet from residential, over 600 feet from schools/churches, over 1,000 feet from other cannabis retailers). A lot line adjustment had been made, but the building's separation from residences did not change. Staff recommended approval. - Applicant Zachary Drivon spoke in favor, emphasizing that the new operator (Sarkis) runs the high-performing PAX location on Hammer Lane, which generated $19 million in revenue and $824,000 in city taxes in 2024 with no safety issues. The applicant noted security measures, including charcoal filter air intakes and two security guards. He argued the move would improve operational security and access. - Commissioner Hull asked about Stockton Unified School District comments; staff confirmed no comments were received. Commissioner Amen observed the parking lot and expressed concerns about impacts on adjacent businesses (a taco shop and urgent care) given high traffic. Commissioner Crowder questioned ventilation and queuing, and noted that tenants in the shopping center were not directly notified (only property owners). - Lieutenant West Ram presented crime statistics for both locations, explaining that the proposed location's higher call volume was due to its busy intersection. Key Outcomes - Motion to Deny (by Commissioner Crowder, seconded by Commissioner Hernandez): Based on findings that the project would not maintain neighborhood integrity, could jeopardize public safety, and would be incompatible with existing land uses. Vote: 3-3 (Yes: Amen, Crowder, Hernandez; No: Hull, Muetzenberg, Sanguinetti). Motion failed. - Motion to Approve with Conditions (by Vice Chair Muetzenberg, seconded by Commissioner Hull): To approve the use permit per staff recommendation, with added conditions requiring a minimum of two security guards at all times of operation (including during inventory receipt) and a maximum exterior queue of 10 persons, enforced by the business. Vote: 3-3 (Yes: Hull, Muetzenberg, Sanguinetti; No: Amen, Crowder, Hernandez). Motion failed. - Because both motions failed, the permit application was denied. The decision can be appealed to the City Council. - The commission also noted that ongoing discussions about the city's commercial and industrial zoning code may consider adjusting notification requirements for tenants in commercial centers.
On August 26, 2025, the Stockton City Council and concurrent authorities held a closed session at 3:30 PM and a regular session at 5:30 PM in Council Chamber, City Hall, 425 N. El Dorado St., Stockton, CA. The council recessed at 8:02 PM, reconvened at 8:10 PM, and adjourned at 9:46 PM. No agenda document was available; this summary is based on the meeting minutes and raw transcript. All seven members were present during the regular session after Councilmember Ponce arrived at 5:46 PM. The City Attorney reported no reportable action from closed session. Closed Session Closed session convened at 3:31 PM and returned at 5:10 PM. Agenda items were conference with legal counsel regarding existing litigation (Kurt Wilson v. City of Stockton, San Joaquin County Superior Court Case No. STK-CV-UWM-2019-12404), possible initiation of litigation, and conference with labor negotiator. There was no public comment and no reportable action. Consent Calendar The consent calendar was approved 7-0, with items 12.1, 12.4, 12.5, 12.10, 12.12, and 12.13 considered separately. - 12.1 Resolution 2025-08-26-1201 ratifying appointment of Susan Lenz to the Measure A Citizens' Advisory Committee through January 31, 2027. Approved 7-0. - 12.4 Resolution 2025-08-26-1204 approving successor MOUs and longevity pay side letters for Stockton Police Management Association, Stockton Firefighters' Local 456 Fire Unit, and Stockton Firefighters' Local 456 Fire Management, effective July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026. Approved 7-0. Public speakers Julie Dunning and Michele J. Sherman supported the agreements but pressed for contracts for rank-and-file officers and Chief McFadden. - 12.5 Resolution 2025-08-26-1205 ratifying emergency expenditure of $168,943.87 to Ponder Environmental Services, Inc. for hazardous materials cleanup at 4873 North West Lane. Approved 7-0. Council discussion noted the responsible party had not been identified and the investigation was ongoing. - 12.10 Resolution 2025-08-26-1210 awarding $237,200 to Global Road Sealing, Inc. for the Local Street Resurfacing FY 2024-25 SB1 Crack Sealing project, covering 20 centerline miles citywide. Approved 7-0. Council asked about quality control, district breakdowns, and resident notifications. - 12.12 Motion 2025-08-26-1212 authorizing up to $850,000 for unmarked police vehicles through a Sourcewell cooperative agreement with National Auto Fleet Group. Approved 7-0. Michele J. Sherman spoke in favor; Alyssa Leiva expressed concern about law enforcement spending. The Mayor explained the fleet replacement cycle and co-op savings. - 12.13 Resolution 2025-08-26-1213 amending Council Policy Manual Chapter 3.04 on removal of members from boards, committees, and commissions. Approved 7-0. Councilmember Padilla asked about consistency and appeal rights; staff said the policy is now tied to the code of conduct and includes an opportunity for the member to speak. The remaining consent items, approved in the 7-0 block vote, included approval of city council minutes, the sixth revised 2025 meeting calendar, a Driving Under the Influence Selective Traffic Enforcement Program grant of $500,000, the Lower Sacramento Road Widening and Bridge Replacements professional services contract of $4,335,231.44, the On-Call Fence Services contract (up to $100,000 annually, up to $300,000 total), the Cedar Ridge Water Service Lateral Replacement construction contract of $144,130, and mayoral appointments to council committees. Public Comments & Testimony Open forum - Julie Dunning thanked Mayor Fugazi for the Climate Action Plan Advisory Committee; first meeting was August 1, a community workshop was held August 15 in Lathrop with about 15 attendees, 40 draft actions have been identified, and a North Stockton workshop is planned for early to mid-September. - Denita Pickens publicized Gospel Goes Classical on September 13, 2025, at Delta College. - Michele J. Sherman supported a contract for Police Chief McFadden, citing more than 30 years of law enforcement experience, crime reductions, and officers working without a contract. - Darlene Larkins complained about AVA Community Energy on her PG&E bill, saying she is on a fixed income, did not ask for AVA, and cannot get off the service for five months. - Pat Barrett urged council teamwork, referenced District 6, Stockton Port shipbuilding, and criticized division. - Charlotte Webb described dust from the KB Homes project near Little John Creek making her and her granddaughter ill and asked the city to address it. - Ralph White urged following the city charter. - Yolanda Amen thanked council for police substations and invited everyone to the Victory Park Pool ribbon cutting. - Jose Morales, a University of Guadalajara graduate from Jalisco, Mexico, requested a future sister-city/twinning partnership and support for sending mobility equipment and possibly a fire truck to Jalisco. - Alyssa Leiva, community organizer with Stockton Stands, invited council to an Immigrant Rights Town Hall Forum. Minutes list the date as Saturday, September 7, 2025, while the transcript says September 27, 2025; this discrepancy is noted. She also requested translators for sanctuary city policy outreach. Consent item public comment - On 12.4, Julie Dunning and Michele J. Sherman supported the MOUs but urged contracts for police officers and the chief. - On 12.12, Michele J. Sherman spoke in favor of vehicle replacements; Alyssa Leiva questioned spending and asked for more community engagement. SESP hearing public comment - Aiden Barry (True Life Companies) supported option 2, noting an approved 211-lot single-family project in District 6 and arguing the fee waivers were not a simple $94 million loss because permits likely would not have been pulled without them. - Christian Santos (BIA of the Greater Valley) supported option 2, citing $138.4 million in one-time fees generated under SESP over the last decade; nearly $22.5 million in annual permit-related revenue; and last fiscal year city revenue of $78.4 million in utility users tax, $73.8 million in sales tax, $46.4 million in property tax, $43.1 million in motor vehicle license fees, and $14.2 million in charges for services. - Pat Barrett urged prioritizing low-income housing, not just affordable housing, and using the city's land as leverage with developers. - Kimberly Graves, a private investor building housing for former foster youth in Vice Mayor Lee's district, said she received no SESP support and described resistance from Cal Water over water meters; she said she has a CPUC hearing. - A North Stockton speaker (listed in minutes as Lan Phoung Ngyuen) urged balance, saying fee waivers should not prevent police substations and infrastructure, and supported option 2 or 3. Brown Act referral public comment - David Sengthay supported referral to both the grand jury and District Attorney, saying faith in the DA may be weakened, and recommended a standing policy and inclusion of transcripts, emails, and records related to former Interim City Manager Colangelo. - Alyssa Leiva supported the referral and asked the City Attorney also refer matters to Attorney General Rob Bonta. DEI investigation public comment - Julie Dunning said the investigation should cover more than the $80,000, including the DEI manager's demotion and city manager office budget augmentation. - Pat Barrett asked that public input be considered and that committee assignments be consistent. - David Sengthay supported the Audit Committee first, with an independent auditor only if needed. Wild 'N Out public comment - Antonio Martin supported urban events and proposed a community committee to manage safety and event planning. - Local artist T. Aaron Kraft (listed in minutes as Tiara Craft) defended the event and said scrutiny felt targeted. - Brittany Jones, a local artist and entertainment industry member, praised the event and said Stockton should celebrate urban culture. - Pat Barrett said the event raised morale but urged the council to follow protocol and stop infighting. - David Sengthay supported outside counsel to clear the air and release findings publicly. - Yolanda Amen called the council's behavior bullying and opposed spending taxpayer money on another investigation. - Alyssa Leiva said Wild 'N Out was not her cup of tea, expressed concern about fiscal accountability, and said signs from the event should be cleaned up. - Pandora Crowder of South Stockton said tickets were too expensive for many residents, noted some attendees came from outside Stockton, and supported outside counsel because the council cannot work together. Discussion Items Stockton Economic Stimulus Program (SESP) Update and Amendments Stephanie Ocasio, Director of Community Development, reviewed the program's history and four options: maintain current SESP; grandfather entitled projects and phase out new waivers; amend without grandfathering; or eliminate SESP. She said the Public Facilities Fee update was expected to produce draft fees by the end of 2025 and adoption in 2026, and that $94 million in fees had been waived. Council discussion focused on the 2008 city limit boundary, the fee nexus, affordable housing, and the original 2015 resolution's disadvantaged-community workforce requirement. Vice Mayor Lee said he would push to terminate the program if the BIA/NAACP workforce requirement was not fulfilled. Councilmember Blower moved to adopt option 2 with a five-year sunset; the motion carried 7-0. The approved amendment gives waivers to active entitled projects and projects deemed complete at the time of council action, and gives new projects gradually reduced waivers in six-month increments over the next 18 months, with a five-year sunset. 16.1 Brown Act Referral City Attorney Lori Asuncion asked for clarification on what to refer and where. Vice Mayor Lee made an initial motion to refer existing alleged violations involving himself, Councilmember Enriquez, and former Interim City Manager Colangelo to the Civil Grand Jury, with DA referral if findings were found; future allegations would follow the same process. Councilmember Padilla proposed future allegations go directly to the DA. Mayor Fugazi proposed referring both existing and future allegations to both the Civil Grand Jury and DA. A motion to call the question failed 4-3. The meeting recessed at 8:02 PM and reconvened at 8:10 PM. A motion to overturn the presiding officer's ruling failed for lack of a second. The final motion, made by Mayor Fugazi and seconded by Councilmember Villapudua, directed the City Attorney to refer existing alleged Brown Act violations to the Civil Grand Jury and the District Attorney's Office for prosecution, and any future reported violations to go through the same process. It passed 7-0. 16.2 406 Investigation into DEI Funding City Attorney Asuncion said the investigation was already authorized, but council policy 3.14 requires designation of an oversight body. Vice Mayor Lee moved to assign oversight to the Audit Committee, seconded by Councilmember Blower. Councilmember Villapudua moved to assign oversight to an independent auditor, then amended to full council oversight, seconded by Councilmember Ponce. A call to question passed 7-0. The full-council oversight motion failed 1-6, with only Councilmember Villapudua voting yes. The original Audit Committee motion then passed 7-0. Public comment supported the Audit Committee approach. 16.3 Wild 'N Out Event and Mitigation Funds Mayor Fugazi said the item was intended to clear up misinformation. City Attorney Asuncion said she had advised Vice Mayor Lee to consider recusal due to potential conflict, but that recusal was an individual decision under the Political Reform Act. Councilmember Villapudua moved to direct the city attorney to retain independent outside counsel to investigate use of funds related to the Wild 'N Out event at Adventist Health Arena for potential councilmember misconduct, specifically Charter Section 1000 and Government Code Section 1090 violations, and to take legal action or refer to proper authorities if violations were found. Vice Mayor Lee's amendment to make investigation results and costs public was accepted. The motion passed 4-3: Mayor Fugazi, Councilmembers Villapudua, Padilla, and Ponce in favor; Councilmembers Blower, Enriquez, and Lee opposed. Vice Mayor Lee said the event sold almost 8,000 seats and created a $640,000 economic impact, and he denied wrongdoing. Councilmembers Blower and Enriquez opposed the investigation as a costly use of taxpayer money and said staff should be trusted. Key Outcomes - Closed session: no reportable action. - Consent calendar and all separately considered consent items: approved 7-0. - SESP amended: active entitled projects and projects deemed complete receive waivers; new projects receive gradually reduced waivers over 18 months in six-month increments; program sunset in five years. Approved 7-0. - Brown Act referral: final motion passed 7-0 to refer existing and future alleged Brown Act violations to the Civil Grand Jury and District Attorney's Office. - DEI 406 investigation: oversight assigned to the Audit Committee, approved 7-0; full council oversight failed 1-6. - Wild 'N Out: independent counsel investigation approved 4-3, with results and costs to be made public when complete. - Next steps include future agenda items requested by Vice Mayor Lee: Hunter House review, Sutter Street fee waiver review, OPTIC investigation update, and a full council update on the county tax-sharing agreement. - The council adjourned at 9:46 PM on a 4-3 vote.
The Stockton Planning Commission met in regular session at 5:30 p.m. on August 14, 2025, in City Council Chambers at 425 N. El Dorado St., Stockton, California. Six commissioners were present: Chair Jeff Sanguinetti, Terry Hull, Derek Graves, Yolanda Amen, Pandora Crowder, and newly appointed Commissioner Jazmine Hernandez. Vice Chair William Muetzenberg was absent. The commission approved the consent calendar, heard public comment on the Thornton Road restaurant denial, and continued the 5066 West Lane cannabis retail storefront public hearing to the August 28, 2025 meeting after a failed denial motion and a vote to suspend the rules. The meeting adjourned at 7:57 p.m. No agenda was available; this summary is based on the minutes and transcript. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of the June 12, 2025 Planning Commission meeting (Motion 2025-08-14-0301). - Approved Resolution 2025-08-14-0302 recommending the City Council deny the pre-zoning request and denying the design review request for a drive-through quick-serve restaurant at 9324 Thornton Road (APN 072-450-26, Application No. P23-0295). - The consent calendar passed 5-0. Voting yes: Hull, Graves, Amen, Sanguinetti, and Crowder. Commissioner Hernandez abstained after the City Attorney recommended that she not vote on the June minutes because she was not a commissioner at that meeting. Commissioner Muetzenberg was absent. Public Comments & Testimony - Mike Hakem, 3414 Brookside Road, speaking for the Thornton Road applicant, said he respected the commission's decision but disagreed. He asked the City Attorney to confirm on the record that the design review and pre-zoning would automatically proceed to the City Council as a single item without exhausting administrative remedies or filing an appeal. The City Attorney confirmed that representation was accurate. - Staff reported receiving written opposition from the Joan Richards Learning Village at 5211 Barbados Circle, which stated the project was across the street from its facility. Staff reviewed the location and found the facility was approximately 1,500 feet away and not directly accessible from the project site. Discussion Items - Cannabis retail storefront at 5066 West Lane (Item 5.1): Staff recommended approval of a Commission Use Permit for a cannabis retail storefront in an existing 6,000-square-foot suite within a 10,000-square-foot building in the Villages at Weber Ranch Shopping Center, at the southeast corner of March Lane and West Lane. Staff found the project categorically exempt from CEQA under CEQA Guidelines Section 15301(a). The site has a General Plan designation of commercial and is zoned Commercial General. The proposal would relocate an already approved operator from 2521 West Lane; the city allows up to 14 retail storefronts, eight are approved, and six are operating, so approval would create no net increase because the applicant would surrender the existing permit. The existing 2521 West Lane permit remains active until approximately October 18, 2025, with building permits under review, and extensions are exhausted. - Site compliance and lot line adjustment: Staff confirmed the project is more than 300 feet from residential uses, more than 600 feet from schools, churches, daycares, and youth facilities, and more than 1,000 feet from another cannabis operator. The applicant completed Lot Line Adjustment LLA 24-02 to bring the parcel into compliance with the 300-foot residential separation, because the original property line would have placed an apartment complex within 300 feet. Staff noted waivers are no longer permitted under the updated municipal code. - Applicant presentation: Zach Dravon, attorney for the applicant, stated this was a relocation rather than a new permit, and that the new operating partner, Engelbert Sarkis, has operated PAX at 3706 Hammer Lane since 2019, which Dravon described as the highest-performing retail store in Stockton with approximately $19 million in gross revenue and $824,000 in cannabis taxes paid to the city in the last year. He described community partnerships, nonprofit contributions, security staffing, surveillance, 21-and-older access, and a track record of no significant security events across the organization's locations. - Commission concerns: Commissioners asked about delivery and transfer logistics, security staffing, hours, proximity to family-oriented businesses and schools, and the purpose of the lot line adjustment. Some commissioners expressed concern that the shopping center is family-oriented and high-traffic, with an urgent care, restaurants, an ice cream shop, and schools nearby. Others noted the project meets all code standards and would not increase the number of approved storefronts. Chair Sanguinetti stated he could support a condition requiring no fewer than two security guards during operation; the applicant agreed to accept that condition if the project were approved. - Continuation and denial votes: The applicant's attorney initially requested a continuance to the August 28 or September 11 meeting because Vice Chair Muetzenberg was absent. The minutes and transcript differ on the first vote: the minutes describe Motion 2025-08-14-0501-01 as a motion rejecting a continuance to August 28, which failed 2-4 with Hull and Sanguinetti voting yes; the transcript indicates Hull moved to continue and the motion failed. The commission then heard the full presentation. Later, Commissioner Graves moved to deny the use permit, seconded by Commissioner Crowder. Graves stated his reason was that the high-traffic, family-oriented location would not maintain or strengthen the integrity and character of the neighborhood. That motion failed 3-3, with Graves, Crowder, and Hernandez voting yes, and Hull, Amen, and Sanguinetti voting no. The City Attorney advised the tie meant the motion died and no project decision was made. Chair Sanguinetti then moved to suspend the rules to allow consideration of a continuance, seconded by Hull. That motion carried 4-2, with Hull, Amen, Sanguinetti, and Crowder voting yes, and Graves and Hernandez voting no. The item was continued to the August 28, 2025 Planning Commission meeting. Reports and Informational Items - Deputy Director Mike McDowell reported that the City Council approved the Murray Ranch project with modified conditions: a road connection referred to as Hall would be terminated with emergency-vehicle access required from the Murray Ranch project, and if the connection to Dr. Martin Luther King is extended within four years, the road would be opened; if it is extended later, the city would pay to open it. - McDowell also said the ad hoc committee is close to receiving a draft of the next portion of the municipal code update. Key Outcomes - Consent calendar approved 5-0; the Thornton Road pre-zoning and design review denial resolution will proceed to the City Council automatically, with no administrative appeal or exhaustion requirement per the City Attorney. - The 5066 West Lane cannabis retail storefront use permit was neither approved nor denied. A denial motion failed 3-3, and a motion to suspend the rules to continue the item passed 4-2. - The cannabis retail storefront matter is scheduled to be heard again at the August 28, 2025 Planning Commission meeting with the full commission, if available. - No new business or unfinished business was considered; the meeting adjourned at 7:57 p.m.
The Stockton City Council held a closed session at 3:00 PM and a regular session from 8:15 PM to 11:52 PM on August 12, 2025. The meeting covered a consent calendar, numerous public comments, and several major discussion items including the appointment of an interim city manager (later pulled), police substations, and the Stockton Economic Stimulus Program. Key actions included approval of the police substations resolution (6-1) and continuation of the SESP update to August 26. Consent Calendar - Quarterly Investment Reports: Accepted for quarters ending March 31, 2025 (Motion 2025-08-12-1201) and June 30, 2025 (Motion 2025-08-12-1202), both passed 7-0. Items 12.2 and 12.15 were considered separately. - Cooperative Purchasing Agreement: Approved with The Home Depot for MRO supplies (Motion 2025-08-12-1203), 7-0. - Revised Gann Limit: Resolution 2025-08-12-1204 approved for FY 2023-24 ($463,417,917). - Appointment of Interim City Manager (Item 12.5): Pulled from the agenda; no vote taken. - City Council Minutes: Approved for July 15, 2025 (Motion 2025-08-12-1206). - Planning Commission Appointment: Ratified for District 1 (Resolution 2025-08-12-1207). - Accela Software Support: Three professional services agreements awarded (Motion 2025-08-12-1208), total not-to-exceed $350,000. - Final Maps for Cannery Park: Units 14 and 15 approved (Resolutions 2025-08-12-1209 and 1210). - Regional Homeless Action Plan: Updated plan and MOU approved (Motion 2025-08-12-1211). - New Police Department Classifications: Code and Housing Enforcement Official, Public Safety Telecommunications Manager, Property and Records Manager (Resolution 2025-08-12-1212). - Computer Training Services: Contract with Applied Office approved (Motion 2025-08-12-1213), $166,320 for three years. - Wastewater Rate Correction: Administrative correction to fee schedule approved (Resolution 2025-08-12-1214). - Groundwater Recharge Project (Item 12.15): Adopted EIR addendum, awarded construction management contract to Inferrera ($728,760), and approved change order with Gateway Pacific ($5,714,565) – total project $17.2 million. Motion 2025-08-12-1215 passed 7-0. - Water Rate Study: Contract with HDR Engineering awarded (Resolution 2025-08-12-1216), $209,957. - Meeting Calendar: Fifth amendment to 2025 calendar approved (Motion 2025-08-12-1217), 7-0. - Augmented Reality Training System: Purchase from InVeris for $265,000 (Motion 2025-08-12-1218). - Surveillance Van: Purchase from Crime Point for $260,000 (Motion 2025-08-12-1219). - Edible Food Recovery Program: MOU with San Joaquin County approved (Motion 2025-08-12-1220), 7-0. - 30 Police Interceptors: Purchase and vehicle up-fitting change order approved (Motion 2025-08-12-1221), $1.72M for vehicles and $993,811 for up-fitting, total $6.37M, passed 7-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Interim City Manager (Steve Colangelo): Dozens of speakers addressed Colangelo's reappointment. Supporters cited his 38 years of business experience and local ties; opponents highlighted his lack of qualifications, the $11,000/month consultant payment, and the use of $22,000 in DEI funds. Many urged keeping acting City Manager Will Crew in place. Notable speakers: Tamica Small (opposed), Pat Barrett (opposed, noted previous 7-0 vote against), Anthony Silva (supported), Yolanda Amen (opposed, accused deceptive actions), Bob Bentz (supported), Andy Abbott (opposed, called it a “deeply stupid vote”), Mary Elizabeth (opposed, questioned process), D'Adria Davie (opposed, NAACP), Ralph White (supported). - Labor Negotiations: Firefighters Local 456 members (Matt Knierim, Colt Lee, Kavon Marshell, Seth Martinez, Devin Robson) spoke against the city's proposal for longevity pay that included a sunset clause. They argued the lack of long-term commitment fuels retention problems, noting over 35 members have lateral transferred in 4.5 years. - Police Substations: Residents from District 6 (Western Ranch, Sierra Vista) urged approval, citing ongoing violence, lack of police presence, and the need for community safety. Speakers: Yolanda Amen, Pat Barrett, Brandy Boyd, Alberto Gonzalez, LanPhoung Nguyen, Mary Elizabeth. - Other Public Comments: Topics included meeting timeliness and decorum (Diana Buettner, David Sengthay, Cynthia Gail Boyd), speeding and traffic safety (Rudy Hurtado, Armando Valerio), foster youth housing (Kimberly Graves), and campaign promises (Alberto Gonzalez). Discussion Items - Quarterly Investment Report (Item 12.2): Staff explained the $1.6B portfolio includes restricted funds for benefits, utilities, etc. The investment income for the quarter was $7.4 million. Councilmember Blower inquired about the funds' composition. - Groundwater Recharge Project (Item 12.15): Dr. Lytle (MUD) explained the three recharge basins at the Delta Water Treatment Plant will improve drought resilience and include a public education park. The change order increased capacity and efficiency; 100% of funds are from utility reserves and grants (no general fund impact). - Police Interceptors (Item 12.21): Council approved the purchase of 30 Ford Interceptors from Folsom Lake Ford via state contract ($1.72M) and vehicle up-fitting from Stommel ($993,811). Councilmember Blower asked about local vendor preference; staff noted Big Valley Ford is a regular partner but the state contract awards lowest price statewide. - Stockton Economic Stimulus Program (Item 15.1): Community Development Director Stephanie Ocasio presented an update. Since 2015, $94 million in public facilities fees have been waived ($77M residential, $17M non-residential). Four options were presented: maintain, grandfather/phase out, gradual phase out, or eliminate. Staff noted the fee waivers have not met job projections, and street improvements and parks are unfunded. Councilmembers disclosed meetings with stakeholders. Councilmember Villapudua supported option 2 but also wanted higher local hire requirements. Vice Mayor Lee made a motion to continue to August 26, which passed 6-1 (Villapudua dissenting). - Westlake Villages II Bonds (Item 16.1): Authorized issuance of special tax bonds up to $30M (estimated $26.285M) for Improvement Area 4. The bonds will finance infrastructure (parks, roads, utilities) with no city general fund impact. Resolution 2025-08-12-1601 passed 7-0. - Cannery Park East CFD (Item 16.2): Approved two resolutions to form Community Facilities District No. 2025-1 and intend to incur bonded indebtedness up to $15M. The district will levy a special tax to fund infrastructure; a public hearing is set for September 23. Resolutions passed 7-0. - Police Substations (Item 16.3): Chief Stanley McFadden presented the plan for substations in Weston Ranch and Sierra Vista. One-time startup costs: $281,738 (Weston Ranch) and $168,338 (Sierra Vista) from Teen Impact Center funds; ongoing costs estimated at $798,000 and $610,000 respectively, though staff noted these include personnel already budgeted. The Housing Authority contributed $300,000 one-time for Sierra Vista and offered a $0 lease. Council debate focused on staffing, cost, and equity. Vice Mayor Lee championed the project; Councilmembers Ponce and Padilla raised concerns about officer reassignment and sustainability. Public comment strongly supported the substations. Motion to approve passed 6-1 (Councilmember Ponce dissenting). The resolution directs staff to implement the substations and report back on actions. Key Outcomes - Interim City Manager: Item 12.5 pulled; no reappointment of Steve Colangelo. Acting City Manager Will Crew remains in place; the permanent City Manager recruitment continues with applications due September 5 and interviews in October. - Stockton Economic Stimulus Program: Continued to August 26, 2025, City Council meeting for further discussion (motion carried 6-1). - Police Substations: Resolution 2025-08-12-1603 approved 6-1, establishing substations in Weston Ranch and Sierra Vista, appropriating $281,738 and $168,338 for one-time costs plus ongoing operating costs for FY2025-26, and authorizing leases and acceptance of $300,000 from Housing Authority. - Westlake Bonds and Cannery Park CFD: Both approved unanimously (7-0). - Consent Items: All remaining consent items approved as part of the consent calendar or individually, with votes 7-0 except for items pulled for separate consideration.
The Stockton City Council held a regular session on July 29, 2025, following a closed session. The council voted 7-0 to appoint Deputy City Manager William Crew as acting city manager effective August 9, 2025, and directed a new contract for the interim city manager to the next meeting. The regular session began at 6:34 PM and adjourned at midnight. Major actions included approving a vacant commercial property ordinance, authorizing the annexation prezone for a 217‑lot residential development (Murray Ranch), setting a public hearing for the Downtown Stockton Community Improvement District, and receiving an update on the Navigation Center and Pathways homeless shelter projects. Consent Calendar - Resolution 2025-07-29-1201: Appointed Silvia Perez to the Community Development Committee (term ending January 31, 2027). - Resolution 2025-07-29-1202: Authorized joint application for a $2,538,787 Infill Infrastructure Grant for the Hunter House project. - Resolution 2025-07-29-1203: Designated Councilmember Blower as voting delegate for the League of California Cities Annual Conference (October 8‑10, 2025). - Resolution 2025-07-29-1204: Overruled protests and confirmed delinquent code enforcement charges for placement on the tax roll. - Motion 2025-07-29-1205: Approved a three‑year (plus two one‑year options) $781,680 contract with Shield Protection Group for prisoner transport, extradition, and hospital watch. - Motion 2025-07-29-1206: Ratified emergency purchase of two Chevrolet Silverado trucks for the Police Department ($154,804.40). - Motion 2025-07-29-1207: Awarded a three‑year $1,215,102.13 contract to Convergint Technologies for video monitoring system maintenance. - Motion 2025-07-29-1209: Authorized a tree maintenance services agreement amendment and extension with West Coast Arborists (total not to exceed $830,000). - Resolution 2025-07-29-1210: Appropriated $9,427,000 from the State Active Transportation Program and awarded a $1,412,881.13 design contract to R.E.Y. Engineers for the Downtown Weber Avenue Bike and Pedestrian Connectivity project. - Item 12.8 (Lower Sacramento Road Widening and Bridge Replacements) was continued to a future September meeting after public testimony. Councilmembers raised concerns about the scope and requested inclusion of Armor Drive and Marlette Road in the design. Public Comments & Testimony - Pat Barrett criticized the appointment process for city manager, expressing disappointment and alleging cronyism. - Julie Dunning (Measure A Citizens Advisory Committee member) alleged interference by the Interim City Manager’s office with the committee’s independence. - Yolanda Amen questioned the extension of the interim city manager’s contract and urged a transparent search for a permanent, qualified candidate. - Matthew Lester urged appointment based on merit rather than personal connections. - Tim Mora, Andrea Branson, Annabel Barajas, Cirila Barajas, and Pat Barrett spoke during the Murray Ranch hearing, mostly opposing opening Hall Avenue to through traffic. They requested the street remain closed to all but emergency vehicles and expressed concerns about property values and safety. - Lanphuong Nguyen and Stefanie Alfaro commented on the Lower Sacramento Road widening, emphasizing traffic congestion and safety needs. - Tony Yadon (CEO Main Street Youth and Family Services, DSA board president) and Farr Yazdi (private investor) spoke in strong support of the Downtown Stockton Community Improvement District. - During the general public comment period, residents raised concerns about: AVA Community Energy cost increases, abandoned vehicles, noise ordinance enforcement, meeting decorum, the need for a tool lending library, police accountability in a fatal crash, and the condition of parks and public spaces. Discussion Items - Navigation Center and Pathways Update (Item 15.1) – Informational only. Economic Development Director Tina McCarty presented the timeline for the Zider Navigation Center (68 beds, family‑focused) and Pathways (268 beds). Total city/county construction investment: $28.2 million. The Navigation Center is expected to open in August 2025, Pathways in October 2025. Mayor Fugazi noted that total city funding for the shelter system has reached approximately $14.79 million. Councilmembers discussed the shift from 180 originally planned beds to 68 due to family space requirements, the inability to accommodate pets (Navigation Center only, Pathways will allow some pets), and the ongoing $3 million annual operational shortfall. Vice Mayor Lee called for a more coordinated, city‑wide homeless strategy and suggested creating a dedicated Housing and Homeless Department. - Older Adult Programming Presentation (Item 15.2) – Informational. Community Services Director Chris Farrow presented senior membership benefits ($29.75/year for age 50+), nutritional programs, library resources, and volunteer opportunities. Councilmember Villapudua requested shareable social media content. - Downtown Stockton Community Improvement District (Item 15.3) – The council approved a Resolution of Intention (7‑0) to form a 20‑year CID, replacing the current five‑year Business Improvement District. The district will provide maintenance, ambassador services, and business development, funded by property assessments. The city’s vote (authorized by the resolution) along with already‑submitted property petitions (31.89%) brings total support to 51.89%. A public hearing is set for September 23, 2025. - Changes to Council Policy 4.06 (Item 15.4) – The council approved a resolution (7‑0) allowing city‑issued tablets without internet or transmission capability in closed sessions, amending the definition of electronic communication devices. Key Outcomes - Closed Session Action: Appointed William Crew as acting city manager effective August 9, 2025 (7‑0 vote). Directed a new interim city manager contract to be placed on the next regular agenda. - Public Hearing 16.1 – Utility Assessments: Adopted Resolution 2025-07-29-1601 overruling protests, confirming $5.1 million in delinquent utility and solid waste charges for 2,835 accounts, and directing placement on the San Joaquin County tax roll (7‑0). Since May, $911,000 has been collected. - Public Hearing 16.2 – Vacant Commercial Property Ordinance: Adopted Ordinance 2025-07-29-1602 creating Title 15, Chapter 15.34 (Vacant Commercial Property and Vacant Lot Registration) and Resolution 2025-07-29-1602 amending the fee schedule to include an $826 annual registration fee per property (7‑0). Effective 30 days after adoption. - Public Hearing 16.3 – Murray Ranch Annexation/Prezone: Approved Ordinance 2025-07-29-1603 (prezone to RL) and Resolution 2025-07-29-1603 (authorizing annexation application to LAFCO) (7‑0). The council also adopted Motion 2025-07-29-1603 requiring that upon construction initiation, access from Hall Avenue be closed to all but emergency vehicles, with speed bumps, and that if a connection to Charter Way is not established within four years, Hall Avenue remains closed. - Consent 12.8 – Lower Sacramento Road Project: Continued to September 2025 for further discussion on scope, cost‑sharing with the county, and potential inclusion of Armor Drive and Marlette Road. - City Manager’s Report: Noted 18 fire recruits, 68 National Night Out events on August 5, first pickleball tournament, and progress on a parks master plan and traffic master plan. - Council Comments: Councilmembers reported district cleanups, school‑year reminders, upcoming events (National Night Out, Eritrean Festival, office hours), and requested future agenda items including: noise ordinance review, face‑ban ordinance, and presentation on gang prevention pilot program.