Public Meetings - Stockton, California

The Stockton City Council held a closed session at 4:00 PM and a regular open session at 6:55 PM on July 15, 2025. The agenda included a 19-item consent calendar, two public hearings, informational updates on community well-being programs, ratification of the M/V Aurora salvage costs, and a contentious discussion on the dissolution of the City Manager Selection Ad Hoc Committee. The meeting adjourned at 12:48 AM the following morning. Closed Session - Roll call was taken at 4:00 PM; all seven council members were present. - Closed session items included conference with labor negotiators, four workers' compensation litigation cases, three public employee performance evaluations, one discipline/dismissal matter, and appointment of the City Manager. - Public comment during closed session included Tony Noceti and Wayne Pierce supporting Interim City Manager Steve Colangelo, Devin Robson (Local 456 president) urging a fair firefighter contract, and Pat Barrett criticizing Colangelo and demanding an outside city manager hire. - The council recessed at 4:13 PM and returned at 6:45 PM. City Attorney Lori Asuncion reported no reportable actions from closed session. Consent Calendar The council approved most consent calendar items 7-0 on a motion by Michael Blower, seconded by Mariela Ponce. Four items were pulled for separate consideration: - 12.3 - Public Records Requests Policy: Adopted Resolution 2025-07-15-1203, adding Council Policy Manual Chapter 2.09. Vice Mayor Jason Lee asked about the 10-day response requirement and coordination with the new "Optic" public information office; a future presentation on Optic was agreed to. Vote 7-0. - 12.8 - HHAP Homeless Funding: Approved Resolution 2025-07-15-1208 allocating a total of $3,886,680 to four projects: Children's Home of Stockton Catalyst ($409,010), Lutheran Social Services Project Hope ($409,010), PREVAIL Propel ($409,010), and Delta Community Developers Harding Way Apartments ($1,415,440). Councilmember Michele Padilla asked to defer the St. Mary's pathway/navigation center allocation (approximately $1.2 million) to the July 29 meeting pending a presentation and audit; the deferral was included in the 7-0 vote. - 12.17 - Mattie Harrell Playground Replacement: Approved Resolution 2025-07-15-1217 awarding a $387,868.75 construction contract to Ross Recreation Equipment Company, Inc. for a new playground with sensory features, with work expected to be completed by winter 2025. Vice Mayor Lee requested a tree assessment at the park. Vote 7-0. - 12.19 - South Tuxedo Avenue Sewer Trunk Rehabilitation: Approved Resolution 2025-07-15-1219 awarding a $991,570 contract to Insituform Technologies, LLC to rehabilitate approximately 1,900 linear feet of 16-inch vitrified clay pipe. Councilmember Mario Enríquez asked about outreach and timeline; staff said construction would begin in the coming months with neighbor notification. Vote 6-0 (Vice Mayor Lee absent). The remaining consent items (12.1-12.7, 12.9-12.16, and 12.18) were approved 7-0. These included approval of city council minutes; appointments to the Climate Action Plan Advisory Committee, Measure A Citizens' Advisory Committee, and Stockton Arts Commission; a $150,000 transfer to Gospel Center Rescue Mission; grant acceptance for the Louis Park boat launch; agreements with Benchmark Solutions, Robert Half Inc., Verdantas Inc. (two contracts), Carollo Engineers, Peregrine, Krueg Therapy Services, and West Yost Associates; and emergency ratification of Weber Point fountain repairs ($260,181.40). Public Comments & Testimony (Matters Not on the Agenda) - Council unity and leadership: Many speakers (Santi Frazier-Mayfield, Yolonda Amen, Gabby Gonzales, Julie Dunning, Nancy Cochran, Andy Abbott, Rupinder Mangat, Pandora Crowder) expressed disappointment in council infighting, called for unity, and criticized what they characterized as Mayor Fugazi's treatment of Vice Mayor Lee and Councilmember Enríquez. Several recalled campaign promises of "truth, trust, and transparency." - Support for Councilmember Enríquez: Speakers including Yolonda Amen, Julie Dunning, and Gabby Gonzales voiced support for Enríquez, urged an investigation into allegations against him, and asked the mayor to restore trust. - Interim City Manager: Nancy Cochran praised Colangelo's team-building approach; Pat Barrett was critical and demanded a city manager from outside Stockton. - Public safety contracts: Devin Robson (Local 456 president) noted firefighters were 15 days without a contract; Nancy Lamb and Mark Stebbins urged a contract for the police chief and cautioned that 70 new officers were not yet trained. Mark Stebbins also cited a $2.8 million figure for substations and argued training should come first. - Unhoused and encampment issues: Matt Ellis, a civil engineer, supported clearing encampments due to lack of sanitation, while Pat Barrett, Cynthia Gail Boyd, and Jessica Velez criticized displacement, lack of bathroom facilities, and road base dumping at Trinity Parkway. Councilmember Padilla later recounted a productive meeting with a camp resident. - Other topics: Dionne Smith requested police reports about her son's killing; Mary Elizabeth raised alcohol/tobacco permit enforcement and water utility tax; Dr. Danielle Hibbitts and Pattie Lewis raised garbage charges and an illegal pig; Tamica Small praised the summer youth program (100 selected from over 1,400 applicants); Denise Friday invited council to a backpack giveaway on August 2. Multiple speakers offered condolences to Mayor Fugazi on the death of her father. Hearings 16.1 - 6505 South McKinley Avenue Prezoning - Staff recommended approval of a Mitigated Negative Declaration, a prezone to Industrial Limited (IL), and annexation to the City for a proposed 184,166-square-foot warehouse on a 9.84-acre site. The Planning Commission had already approved the site plan and design review and recommended approval. - Public comment: Union representatives (Jorge Polo Tomas, Liz Sutton, Juan Perez) spoke in favor, citing apprenticeships and high-road construction jobs; Pat Barrett opposed, arguing District 6 is overburdened by warehouses and air pollution; Alyssa Leiva asked for balance between jobs and public health. - Council discussion: Vice Mayor Lee acknowledged the site's existing General Plan industrial designation and emphasized future environmental considerations; Councilmember Enríquez called for a citywide conversation about warehouse siting. - Approved 7-0: Resolution 2025-07-15-1601-01 (Mitigated Negative Declaration), Ordinance 2025-07-15-1601 (prezone), and Resolution 2025-07-15-1601-02 (annexation application to LAFCO). 16.2 - Murray Ranch (2560 Hall Avenue) - Staff presented a request for annexation and prezone to Residential Low (RL) for a proposed 217-lot single-family subdivision on a 37.4-acre site. The project was found exempt from additional CEQA review under Public Resources Code Section 21083.3 and CEQA Guidelines Section 15183. - Public comment: Residents of Hall Avenue (Tim Mora, Loneta Colbert, Cinloa Barajas, Nuri Muhammad, Andrea Blanson) expressed concerns about traffic, narrow county roads, lack of sidewalks, construction access, and emergency response. Dan Richardson urged better road design. - Developer Mike O'Hara (Tim Lewis Communities) said the project includes up to three speed humps on Hall Avenue, a commitment to no construction traffic on Hall, and parks built with the subdivision. He also noted alternatives via Madrid, Brigham, and Juliet streets. - Councilmembers raised concerns about infrastructure-first planning and community engagement. The council voted 7-0 to continue the item to the July 29, 2025 meeting to allow staff and the applicant to work with the community on access solutions. New Business 15.1 - Community Well-Being Project Updates - Informational presentation from staff and partner agencies; no action taken. - Mobile Community Response Team (MCRT): Alfonso Apu (CMC) reported over 15,000 calls since May 2023, including about 3,300 in the last six months; the pilot has spent $4 million of its $5.76 million ARPA budget (70%). - Opioid settlement funds: Alex Bailey reported Stockton's allocation is 0.325% of a national $43.3 billion settlement, with a potential long-term value of $10.7 million; the city has received about $3.17 million and spent just over $1 million to date. - Respite/SUD services: Lane McMiller reported 1,070 bed days used between December and May, with 13 beds at the facility. - Care Solace: Anita Ward reported 5,602 people connected to mental health care in six months, with average matching time of one day and booking time of ten days. African American residents had the highest suicidal ideation rates among those served, prompting calls for deeper outreach. - Public comment: Pat Barrett urged the city to develop pet boarding options so unhoused residents can accept services without surrendering animals. 15.2 - Ratification of M/V Aurora Salvage and Disposal Costs - Dr. Mel Lytle (Municipal Utilities) explained that the derelict vessel Aurora sank in May 2024 upstream of the city's water intake, threatening the water supply. The vessel was refloated, towed to Vallejo, and demolished; total final expenses were $8,290,874.96, with about $1 million in State Lands Commission funding received and other reimbursement requests denied. - Councilmembers expressed frustration about taxpayer cost and supported pursuing legal recourse against the vessel owners. Resolution 2025-07-15-1502 ratifying the expenses was approved 7-0. 15.3 - Ad Hoc Committee for City Manager Selection: Creation and Dissolution - This item was agendized by Councilmember Enríquez. Public comment included Yolanda Amen, Julie Dunning, Gabby Gonzalez, Pat Barrett, and David Sengthay, most urging transparency and investigation into the dissolution. - Councilmember Enríquez presented a timeline: the ad hoc committee was created Feb. 4, 2025; the search firm Peck McKinney was announced June 3; the mayor dissolved the committee via email June 6. He read the mayor's email alleging Brown Act concerns and a scheduled closed session without her involvement. - Vice Mayor Lee denied wrongdoing, called the process "a matter of policy, not politics," and said he and Enríquez had tried to meet with the mayor. He requested that the allegations be sent to the Grand Jury and District Attorney. - Councilmember Brando Villapudua made detailed accusations, claiming Councilmember Enríquez had offered campaign support in exchange for his vote to remove the interim city manager and threatened to "destroy" the Villapudua name. He urged referral to the District Attorney. - Mayor Fugazi stated the dissolution was within her charter authority as the sole nominating authority and supported referring the matter to the Grand Jury and District Attorney. She also said the council had met with the recruiter and all members had access to the timeline. - The council directed staff to send the item to the Grand Jury and District Attorney for investigation of a potential Brown Act violation. Vice Mayor Lee also requested a Section 406 charter investigation into DEI funding and related matters, which he said had support from four council members. City Manager's Update - Interim City Manager Steve Colangelo reported achievements: a balanced budget, homicides down 37%, 70 new officers hired, high-level federal meetings, a shipbuilding opportunity, a planned July 22 multi-agency homeless encampment cleanup, forensic audits, a new grants department, and transparency measures. He urged council unity to maintain federal investment confidence. Council Comments - Councilmembers reported on district events, community cleanups, infrastructure repairs, and upcoming meetings. Several addressed the night's controversy: Councilmember Padilla said the dysfunction was "not about one person" and pleaded for collaboration; Vice Mayor Lee outlined commitments on DEI, police chief contract, trash issues, police substations (presentation scheduled Aug. 12), fire service reimbursement at the port, and a "I Am Ready Community Council"; Councilmember Enríquez shared committee plans, pothole fixes, and community events; Councilmember Villapudua announced Columbus Park renovation and a backpack giveaway; Councilmember Blower described a neighborhood fire rescue and praised the fire department; Mayor Fugazi emphasized positivity, announced the Mayfair property is in escrow, and said she would travel to San Diego and Washington, D.C. for police and federal meetings. Key Outcomes - Approved the consent calendar, including pulled items: Public Records Requests policy (7-0); HHAP funding with St. Mary's deferral (7-0); Mattie Harrell Playground contract (7-0); South Tuxedo Sewer contract (6-0). - Approved the McKinley Avenue prezone/annexation (7-0). - Continued the Murray Ranch project to July 29, 2025 (7-0) with direction to work with the community on access. - Ratified $8,290,874.96 in Aurora salvage/disposal expenses (7-0). - Referred the Ad Hoc Committee dissolution and Brown Act allegations to the Grand Jury and District Attorney; Vice Mayor Lee's request for a Section 406 DEI investigation received support. - Councilmember Enríquez will agendize a Legislative Committee discussion on ad hoc committee policy. - Staff directed to pursue fire service reimbursement at the port (with consensus). - Future presentations scheduled: police substations on Aug. 12, St. Mary's pathway presentation on July 29, Optic public information department, and a city manager recruitment timeline.

The Stockton Planning Commission met on July 10, 2025, at 5:32 PM at 425 N. El Dorado St. The meeting included two public hearings: a proposed Jack in the Box drive-thru restaurant at 9324 Thornton Road and a tentative map to subdivide a parcel at 4424 Ijams Road. After hearing public testimony and deliberation, the commission voted to direct staff to prepare a denial resolution for the Jack in the Box project and approved the subdivision map with additional conditions. The meeting adjourned at 7:56 PM. Consent Calendar - None. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 5.1 – Jack in the Box (Thornton Road): Eight residents spoke in opposition. They cited concerns about traffic congestion on Wagner Heights Road, noise, light spillover into bedrooms, safety (including a recent shooting and a child hit by a car), litter, vagrancy, and the area already having many fast-food options (e.g., Dairy Queen, 7-Eleven, Burger King within a mile). Speakers requested the commission deny the project, with several noting the 24-hour operation would exacerbate existing problems. - Larry Collins (50-year resident): Opposed, citing speeding traffic and noise; requested no exit onto Wagner Heights. - Adam Collins (resident): Concerned about building orientation (back of restaurant facing road) and noise; suggested turning the building around. - Tina Gallegos (35-year resident): Opposed due to lights, noise, trash, vagrancy, and sideshows; noted a shooting the previous night. - Alex Gallegos (resident): Opposed, stating three Jack in the Boxes exist within one mile. - Cindy Mansue (new resident): Opposed, saying the exit would make the neighborhood a "living hell." - Judy Deimler (47-year resident): Opposed, stating a fast-food restaurant is not a good fit; suggested alternative uses like a daycare. - Larry Deimler (retired city engineer): Opposed, citing existing traffic mess, headlights, and lack of stacking space for drive-thru. - Diante McAroy (resident): Opposed, noting his brother was hit by a car in 2003; said more fast food will only add to the riffraff. - Item 5.2 – Subdivision (Ijams Road): No public comments from the audience. The applicant, Pameline Matlock, spoke in support, explaining the project would improve the area by reducing trash dumping, vagrancy, and crime, and provide tax revenue. Discussion Items - Item 5.1 – Prezone and Design Review for Jack in the Box (9324 Thornton Road): Staff presented the project: a 2,440 sq ft quick-serve restaurant with 24-hour drive-thru on a 0.68-acre parcel, requiring annexation and pre-zoning to General Commercial. Design review was elevated due to annexation. The project met CEQA exemptions (15303 and 15332). An eight-foot CMU block wall was proposed along the east residential edge. Staff recommended approval with conditions, but noted a holdover condition (17C) should be omitted. The applicant (Edgar Castillo, architect) and franchise representative (Sheetal Ori) spoke, emphasizing convenience, jobs, and variety. Commissioners discussed traffic stacking (concerns about queue spilling onto Wagner Heights Road), the adequacy of the wall height, impacts on adjacent homes, and the fact that many other fast-food outlets already serve the area. After public testimony, Commissioner Yolanda Amen moved to direct staff to prepare a resolution based on findings of denial. Motion seconded by Pandora Crowder, and passed 5-0 (with Commissioner Terry Hull absent, excused). The denial findings will be brought back for a final vote at a future meeting. - Item 5.2 – Tentative Map for 4424 Ijams Road: Staff presented a proposal to subdivide a 1.34-acre parcel into seven residential lots (ranging from 5,000 to 11,000 sq ft). The site is adjacent to railroad tracks and the Calaveras River. A preliminary acoustical memo recommended an eight-foot wall. The project is CEQA-exempt (15332). The commission discussed adding conditions for annexation into the Consolidated Landscape Maintenance District and Community Facilities District 2018-3, and clarified that stormwater retention (not detention) is required. Vice Chair William Muetzenberg moved to approve the tentative map with those added conditions. Seconded by Jeff Sanguinetti. The motion passed 5-0. - Commissioners Comments: Commissioner Crowder thanked her colleagues. Vice Chair Muetzenberg raised concerns about traffic flow, bus stop placement, and signal light timing. Chair Sanguinetti noted that RTD prefers in-lane bus stops over pullouts, causing congestion. Commissioner Amen thanked staff and noted her effort to visit project sites. Commissioner Graves moved to adjourn. Key Outcomes - Item 5.1 (Jack in the Box): Motion 2025-07-10-0501 carried 5-0 directing staff to prepare a resolution with findings of denial for the prezone and design review. The item will return to the Planning Commission for a final vote before going to City Council. - Item 5.2 (Ijams Road Subdivision): Resolution 2025-07-10-0502 approved 5-0, approving the tentative map subject to conditions, including annexation into the city's consolidated landscape maintenance district and Community Facilities District 2018-3, and clarifying stormwater retention. The decision may be appealed within 10 days. - Adjournment: Meeting adjourned at 7:56 PM.

This was a special closed session meeting of the Stockton City Council held on July 9, 2025, at 5:30 PM in the Council Chamber. The meeting was called to order with six members present (Michael Blower, Brando Villapudua, Michele Padilla, Christina Fugazi, Mario Enríquez, and Jason Lee). Councilmember Mariela Ponce was absent at roll call but arrived at 6:00 PM according to the minutes. The council recessed to closed session at 5:36 PM and adjourned at 8:00 PM with no reportable actions taken. Public Comments & Testimony - Zoyla Moreno spoke regarding the City Manager recruitment item, urging the council to work together and make the right decision for the community, emphasizing the need to stop bickering and deliver on promises of change. - Nisha Williams spoke regarding the labor negotiations item, advocating for fair wages and benefits for workers. She also raised concerns about trash pickup, affordable housing, and support for homeless families, linking these issues to the need for improved labor negotiations. Key Outcomes - The council voted to recess to closed session at 5:36 PM to discuss two items: (1) Conference with Labor Negotiator (Item 25-0773) and (2) Public Employee Recruitment for City Manager (Item 25-0772), authorized under Government Code sections 54957.6 and 54957. - No actions were reported after closed session; the meeting adjourned at 8:00 PM with no further business. Note: There is a discrepancy between the meeting minutes and the raw transcript regarding Councilmember Ponce's attendance. The minutes state she arrived at 6:00 PM, but the transcript shows her absent at roll call with no subsequent mention of her presence.

The Stockton Planning Commission met on June 26, 2025, at 5:30 PM (adjourned at 7:03 PM). The central action was the unanimous approval (5–0) of a recommendation to the City Council for the LeBaron Ranch project, a 1,411-unit residential development on 306 acres. The meeting also included approval of prior meeting minutes and a public comment period. Consent Calendar - Item 3.1 – Approval of Planning Commission Minutes: The minutes of the March 27, 2025, meeting were approved 5–0. Motion by Terry Hull, seconded by Yolanda Amen. Public Comments & Testimony - LanPhoung Nguyen (also identified as Lang Fung Wayne), a District 1 resident, expressed strong support for affordable housing, noting Stockton’s need for homes affordable to residents with student loans and modest incomes. She stated that the developer plans only “190 something units for low income” out of 1,411 total and requested that the commission “increase the affordable housing unit for us” in future developments. (This figure differs from the staff presentation’s 194 high-density units, which are described as “affordable by design” but not deed-restricted affordable housing.) Discussion Items - Item 5.1 – LeBaron Ranch (P22-0139): A proposed 1,411-unit residential development at 900 & 1300 East Eight Mile Road and 10550 & 10600 North Lower Sacramento Road. The project requires annexation, a General Plan amendment, pre-zoning, an Environmental Impact Report (EIR), a Vesting Tentative Map, a Planned Development (PD), and a waiver. Staff (Scott Spear, Planning Manager) presented the project, noting the EIR identified significant unavoidable impacts in aesthetics, agricultural resources, air quality, and transportation, which are addressed via a Statement of Overriding Considerations (SOC). The project includes 194 high-density units and 1,217 single-family homes on four lot sizes (45x75, 50x80, 50x100, 60x100). A waiver is requested because the proposed open space (28.23 acres, 12% of site) falls short of the 20% PD requirement (47.26 acres). The developer (Steve Miller, applicant, and Trevor Smith, planner) emphasized “wellness walks” connecting neighborhoods to a central park, a potential school site (with Lodi Unified School District), and varied lot sizes to provide a “full life cycle of housing” for first-time buyers, move-up, and downsizing. Commissioners asked about school commitment (undecied), traffic impacts (mitigated via EIR analysis), and affordable housing. Director Stephanie Ocasio clarified that the high-density units are “affordable by design” but not deed-restricted; formal affordable housing requires subsidies or policies set by the City Council. Commissioner Pandora Crowder expressed concern about gentrification and lack of true affordability. The public hearing included support from Gary Greeno, pastor of Horizon Christian Fellowship Church, who praised the community design. No opposition was voiced. Key Outcomes - Motion by Derek Graves, seconded by Yolanda Amen – To approve the project as recommended by staff. Passed 5–0 (Yes: Hull, Graves, Muetzenberg, Amen, Crowder; Absent: Sanguinetti). The motion adopted four resolutions: - Resolution 2025-06-26-0501-01: Forward a recommendation to the City Council to adopt the EIR (including the SOC and Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting Program). - Resolution 2025-06-26-0501-02: Forward a recommendation for the General Plan Land Use Map amendment for 12 parcels to include Low, Medium, High Density Residential, Institutional, and Public Facilities. - Resolution 2025-06-26-0501-03: Forward a recommendation for pre-zoning the parcels to RL, RM, RH, and PF zoning. - Resolution 2025-06-26-0501-04: Approve the Vesting Tentative Map, Planned Development, and Waiver Request (subject to conditions). - Commissioner Comments: Commissioners praised the project’s innovative design (Hull), expressed hope for more affordable housing (Amen, Crowder), and noted the importance of community amenities. Vice Chair Muetzenberg thanked staff and fellow commissioners.

The Stockton City Council met on June 24, 2025, convening in closed session at 4:01 PM and in regular session at 5:30 PM, with adjournment at 11:58 PM. The Council approved the FY 2025-26 annual budget, settled a lawsuit for $150,000, considered informational reports on city diversity/equity/inclusion (DEI) efforts and South Stockton police substations, and approved a street right-of-way vacation for Waste Management. Closed Session Report - City Attorney Lori Asuncion reported the Council voted 6-0 (Councilmember Padilla absent) to settle Francisco Terrones III v. City of Stockton, et al. (San Joaquin County Superior Court Case No. STK-CV-UAT-2021-0011378) in the amount of $150,000. Consent Calendar - The Consent Agenda was approved 7-0 in a single vote, with items 12.1, 12.12, 12.16, 12.17, and 12.18 considered separately (each passed 7-0). - 12.1 (Resolution 2025-06-24-1201): Ratified appointment of Stefani Alfaro to the Measure W Oversight Committee through January 31, 2027. Councilmember Enriquez and the City Clerk noted 35 commission vacancies citywide. - 12.2 (Resolution 2025-06-24-1202): Allocated up to $1,653,877 in HOME Investment Partnerships Program funds (including $153,877 of 2017 funds expiring September 2025 and $1,500,000 in additional HOME funds) plus up to $350,000 from the Low-Moderate-Income Housing Fund to Delta Community Development Corporation for acquisition of five single-family affordable homes. - 12.3 (Resolution 2025-06-24-1203): Authorized acquisition of 1661 West Fremont Street for the Stockton Animal Shelter for up to $3,200,000, plus appropriation of $400,000 from the Police Department's Pet Overpopulation Donation Accounts. The Mayor clarified $2.8 million had been designated by a prior council from unspent funds, with $400,000 from the police pet fund. - 12.4 (Resolution 2025-06-24-1204): Expanded city participation in the PRISM joint powers insurance pool, including Primary Cyber Liability, Property, and Crime programs. - 12.5 (Resolution 2025-06-24-1205): Adopted the updated CalPERS salary schedule effective July 1, 2025. - 12.6 (Motion 2025-06-24-1206): Approved an AT&T Switched Ethernet/Network on Demand contract totaling $533,850.40 over 60 months. - 12.7 (Motion 2025-06-24-1207): Authorized continued CALNET participation with AT&T and Comcast for an increased total of $2,423,842. - 12.8 (Resolution 2025-06-24-1208): Authorized Change Order No. 1 with Silva Landscape for storm drainage basin maintenance, adding $314,050 for a new total of $765,850. - 12.9 (Resolution 2025-06-24-1209): Authorized the Mormon Slough Improvements Project, transferring $50,000, approving NOE24-25, and awarding a $427,569 construction contract to FBD Vanguard Construction, Inc. - 12.10 (Motion 2025-06-24-1210): Authorized Contract Change Order No. 5 for custodial services with Imperial Maintenance Services, Inc. in the amount of $1,115,201.26. - 12.11 (Motion 2025-06-24-1211): Awarded a $293,920 on-call arborist services contract to California Tree and Landscape Consulting, Inc. - 12.12 (Motion 2025-06-24-1212): Authorized Contract Change Order No. 6 for the McKinley Park Renovation Project in the amount of $284,064.10 with Otto Construction. Discussion covered handball court surfacing, future murals, and activation of the park's community center through YMCA/Boys & Girls Club partnerships. - 12.13 (Motion 2025-06-24-1213): Authorized Change Order No. 2 with All Seasons Pool Service for $179,589. - 12.14 (Motion 2025-06-24-1214): Authorized Change Order No. 2 with American Chiller Service, Inc. for $561,230. - 12.15 (Motion 2025-06-24-1215): Awarded a $282,922 design contract to R.E.Y. Engineers, Inc. for federal-aid street resurfacing. - 12.16 (Resolution 2025-06-24-1216): Approved NOE16-25 and awarded a $127,369 contract to Valentine Corporation for repairs to the El Dorado Street Bridge over Bianchi (damaged by vehicle impact in 2021, assessed in 2022, construction expected summer 2025). - 12.17 (Resolution 2025-06-24-1217): Appropriated $80,000 from Gas Tax funds and awarded a $301,867.50 re-striping contract to Chrisp Company. - 12.18 (Resolution 2025-06-24-1218): Approved NOE25-25 and awarded a $408,232.79 pavement repair contract to Robert Burns Construction, Inc. - 12.19 (Resolution 2025-06-24-1219): Authorized procurement of general liability coverage up to $14,000,000 for FY 2025-26 through PRISM. - 12.20 (Motion 2025-06-24-1220): Authorized five-year revenue audit contracts with Hinderliter, de Llamas & Associates (HdL) and MuniServices, LLC across sales/use, business license, transient occupancy, property, utility user, and franchise tax categories. Public Comments & Testimony - Non-agenda public comments: Armando Valerio spoke on public safety and the FY 2025/26 budget; Stefanie Alfaro urged enforcement of animal cruelty penal codes; Zoyla Moreno (speaking in Spanish) said Latinos are a 45% majority and demanded the city fulfill promises on a Weston Ranch police substation; Jessica Velez, Eric Hoyt, Pat Barrett, Patrisha Cochran, and Mike Lopez described displacement, arrests, and property destruction involving unhoused residents, with Lopez asking the Council to reconsider the scheduled July 7, 2025 Trinity Park displacement until safe camping and equitable housing options exist. Eric Hoyt stated he was tased by Stockton police on June 19, 2025, received seven staples, and is exploring legal options. - Item 12.3 public comment: Yolanda Amen questioned the priority of the animal shelter expansion, saying she would prefer public safety and unhoused needs be funded first. The Mayor responded that most funding was already allocated by a prior council. Discussion Items - Item 15.1 — Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (informational, no action): Priya Nixon, who oversees inclusion initiatives, presented work tied to Resolution 2022-07-12-1504, organized into tier-one actions (recruitment/hiring evaluation, university internship MOUs with Delta College/UOP/Stan State, performance evaluation modernization, training, EEO report refresh) and tier-two items (classification/compensation study, an equity framework, and a charter/policy review committee). Vice Mayor Lee stated Nixon had resigned, that her position was declassified to an HR analyst, and that $40,000 from the DEI budget was spent on food; he called for a DEI "report card," a 30-day DEI plan, and exploration of making DEI its own department. Councilmember Padilla acknowledged the fire department has only three Black firefighters but praised firefighter recruitment efforts conducted with little or no budget. The Mayor cited a Zen City survey showing 72% of Stockton residents rated acceptance of all backgrounds good/excellent/very good and 28% fair/poor. A procedural point-of-order dispute arose during the item; the City Attorney clarified meeting-order rules, and the Mayor was determined not to have violated decorum. Public speakers included Yolanda Amen (questioning removal of DEI committee members and lack of transparency), Bobby Bivens (asserting no major equity change in 30 years and proposing a "community parity" office), Julie Dunning (arguing DEI must sit at the executive level, not in HR, and questioning why the DEI officer is leaving after one year), Pat Barrett (citing data that white women have been top beneficiaries of corporate DEI), Tammy Williams (calling for more diversity and culturally competent services), and Andi Barrise (urging representation at all staff levels). - Item 15.2 — South Stockton Police Substations (informational, no action): Captain Annabelle Morris presented a three-phase plan for two storefront substations in Sierra Vista and Weston Ranch, with four location options costing approximately $1.3 million to $1.4 million. Staffing would be drawn from the existing authorized force (currently 373 sworn of 425 authorized), with about two officers (approximately $278,000), one CSO ($120,000), and one police service technician ($47,000) per location, plus one-time costs such as vehicles. Vice Mayor Lee noted the direction was given January 7, 2025, and emphasized the community's commitment; the Mayor and Councilmember Padilla asked how costs would be funded. Options showed a marginal additional annual cost of about $82,000 for option one and about $46,560 for option two beyond already-budgeted staffing. Interim City Manager Chad Reed committed to returning at the next council meeting with a clear plan, and staff indicated a 60-day timeline for a full financial evaluation. Public comment included strong support from Weston Ranch and Sierra Vista residents, including Yolanda Amen (describing drug activity at a shopping center), Brandie Boyd (whose nephew was killed in 2016, saying "you can't put a price on saving lives"), and Dan Richardson; Peter Ragsdale of the Housing Authority said resident councils are excited and offered fiscal support; Bobby Bivens supported substations as relationship-builders but opposed militarized equipment. Hearings - Item 16.1 — Street Vacation (Resolution 2025-06-24-1601, passed 7-0): Public hearing on vacating portions of South Pershing Avenue and Temple Street rights-of-way at Waste Management's request for facility reconfiguration. Public utility easements were reserved, and CEQA Notices of Exemption 13-25 and 15-25 were approved. - Item 16.2 — FY 2025-26 Annual Budget (Resolutions 2025-06-24-1602, PA 2025-06-24-1602, and SRD 2025-06-24-1602, passed 7-0): Budget Officer Brandon Sepulveda presented a $982 million citywide expenditure budget (2.8% increase) with $936 million in revenues; the general fund totals $328.2 million, with police at $184 million (55%) and fire at $70 million (21%). Sales tax is the largest revenue source at $123.9 million (including $45.9 million Measure A), followed by property tax at $82 million and utility user tax at $45 million. The budget closed an initial $15 million general fund deficit. Reserves are projected at $140 million versus a $238 million target. Council direction added $54,661 for the City Clerk, $73,416 for the City Attorney, $34,970 for firefighter recruitment/diversity, and two full-time plus five part-time Office of Violence Prevention (OVP) positions ($221,000 and $162,000). Adopted modifications redirected $150,000 from the City Manager's discretionary fund to fund the Clerk and City Attorney asks totaling approximately $128,000, redistributing the remainder; OVP positions were approved as presented but hiring will be held until the outcome of the CalVIP grant application and revenue reports are known. Key Outcomes - Closed session litigation settlement of $150,000 approved 6-0. - All Consent Calendar items approved 7-0. - Resolution 2025-06-24-1601 (Pershing Avenue/Temple Street vacation) approved 7-0. - FY 2025-26 Annual Budget, 2025-2030 Capital Improvement Plan, FY 2025-26 Fee Schedule, Gann Appropriations Limit, Parking Authority budget, and Successor Agency budget adopted 7-0 with the modifications described above. - Directive: City Manager staff, Police Department, and Housing Authority to return at the next council meeting with a definitive plan and fiscal assessment for South Stockton substation options. - Directive: Staff to present a DEI plan to Council within 30 days and keep Council informed of the DEI manager hiring process; request to explore making DEI a standalone department referred to the Legislative Committee. - Council agreed to hold an open discussion at the July meeting on ad hoc committee formation and dissolution, and on the city manager search timeline, after Councilmember Enriquez expressed concern that an ad hoc committee was dissolved in private.

The Stockton Planning Commission met on June 12, 2025, at 5:30 PM in the City Council chambers. The meeting included approval of previous minutes, public comment, and a public hearing on a request to upgrade an alcohol license at a convenience store. The commission voted 5-1 to deny the upgrade. Consent Calendar - 25-0666 – Approval of the Planning Commission minutes from March 13, 2025. Motion carried 6-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Pat Barrett (District 6 resident) expressed concerns about truck traffic and infrastructure in the AB 617 area, requesting the commission be mindful of future permits that could worsen air quality and safety near Edison High School. - Mary Elizabeth spoke in support of staff’s recommendation to deny the alcohol license upgrade. She questioned whether conditions from the original beer and wine permit had been monitored and whether the business had obtained a tobacco retail license. She also requested a GIS-based compilation of alcohol permit locations and conditions. Discussion Items - Item 5.1 – Request for Commission Use Permit and Waiver to Upgrade Off-Sale Alcohol License (10715 Trinity Parkway) - Staff Presentation: Senior Planner Arturo Carrasco explained that the applicant seeks to upgrade from off-sale beer and wine (Type 20) to off-sale general alcoholic beverages (Type 21). The project is located at a gas station/convenience store within the AG Spanos Master Development Plan area. The existing use permit for beer and wine was approved in 2016. The proposal does not meet two problem use restrictions: the crime reporting district (CRD 475) exceeds the citywide average by 372% (primarily retail theft), and the site is within 500 feet of another off-sale establishment (Chevron). The applicant requests a waiver. Staff recommended denial because the project does not meet required findings and could interfere with public welfare. - Applicant Presentation: Leslie Burnside (Barghausen Consulting Engineers) argued that the upgrade is needed to offset declining sales due to increased electric vehicles and reduced tobacco sales. She stated that many customers prefer to buy spirits locally rather than travel to big-box retailers. She presented a comprehensive security plan, noting the applicant’s 35-year clean ABC record and nine other well-run stations. She requested approval with a condition to return in one year for review, but acknowledged the complexity of revoking the permit if issues arose. - Police Input: Officer Lewis Porter provided crime data for the location: 69 calls for service over a two-year period (January 2023–January 2025), 12 resulting in crime reports including robbery, assaults, and stolen vehicles. The majority of crimes in the reporting district are retail theft-related. There were 36 DUI calls in the district during that period. - Commissioner Questions and Deliberation: - Commissioner Amen visited the site and observed no need for additional alcohol, noting multiple existing outlets nearby. She supported staff’s recommendation. - Chair Hull expressed opposition to adding more hard alcohol outlets, citing council’s direction to reduce alcohol availability. - Vice Chair Muetzenberg considered the one-year condition but, after discussion with the city attorney, acknowledged complications regarding revocation and reversion to the Type 20 license. - Commissioner Crowder asked about the risk of losing both licenses if the condition were imposed. - Commissioner Graves initially voted incorrectly due to a technical error; the vote was retaken. Key Outcomes - Resolution 2025-06-12-0501 – Denying the Commission Use Permit and Waiver to upgrade to off-sale general alcoholic beverages, with a finding of categorical exemption from CEQA. Motion carried 5-1 (Yes: Hull, Graves, Amen, Sanguinetti, Crowder; No: Muetzenberg). The applicant has a 10-day appeal period to the City Council. - Reports: Assistant Director Mike McDowell reported that the City Council approved a development code amendment on June 3. The final portion of the code will be developed with input from an ad hoc committee (Chair Sanguinetti, Commissioner Hull, Vice Chair Muetzenberg). The committee may also discuss crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED) with police. - Commissioner Comments: Commissioners welcomed new Commissioner Pandora Crowder. Vice Chair Muetzenberg disclosed a prior working relationship with Crowder through a nonprofit; the city attorney confirmed no conflict. Commissioner Amen advised new commissioners to ask questions and seek clarification.

The Stockton City Council held a special meeting on June 11, 2025, for the annual State of the City presentation. The event, hosted at the Adventist Health Arena with the Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce, included ceremonial proceedings, a speech by Mayor Christina Fugazi, and recognition of 10 city employees. No public comments were received, and no formal action was taken. Welcome & Opening Ceremonies - Tim Quinn, CEO of the Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce, opened the event and thanked sponsors. - Chamber President Jamie Beausois highlighted chamber programs, including the Green Team San Joaquin, Business Education Alliance, Leadership Stockton, and the new retail theft prevention program (START app). - Destiny Rivas of the Stockton Unified Native American Indian Center delivered a Land Acknowledgement, noting the city sits on ancestral unceded territory of the North Valley Miwok and Central Valley Yokuts. She stated Stockton has over 500 tribal communities represented, with a Native American population exceeding 2%. - Joseph Maes (elder, Vietnam veteran) provided a silent blessing for the council members. - Pledge of Allegiance was led by Sacred Dawn Kaiser. - The national anthem was performed by Lakeisha Shaw. - Bishop Bridges gave an invocation, praying for wisdom, for the mayor, and for the city’s vulnerable populations. Mayor's State of the City Address - Mayor Christina Fugazi reported on progress in her 161 days since taking office. - Public Safety: Highlighted recruitment/retention efforts for police and fire; new Fire Chief Brian Carr; a Joint Powers Authority (JPA) with Lodi, Tracy, and Mountain House; and SPD Chief McFadden’s partnerships with regional and federal agencies (sheriff, DA, CHP, ATF, FBI, U.S. Marshals) focused on reducing gang violence and getting guns off the street. - Parks & Infrastructure: Announced the opening of McKinley Park with a new pool, sports fields, and courts (“showing love to South Stockton”). Launched “Light Up Stockton” for brighter streets and walkways. - Community Cleanup: Partnerships with Stockton 209 CARES (hires homeless individuals), Greater Valley Conservation Corps (employs youth), and Ready to Work (employs those exiting incarceration). - Financial Stewardship: Under interim city manager Steve Coangelo, begun efforts to avoid bankruptcy and stabilize finances. - Levees: Reported critical progress on levee repairs through state and federal partnerships. - Gratitude to Staff: Recognized city employees for their dedication, noting they have faced assault, harassment, and even death in the line of duty. Asked all city employees in the audience to stand. - Closing message: “The state of our city is strong, focused, and rising. We are on Team Stockton.” Employee Recognitions - Rosa Alvarez (Deputy Director of Public Works) – Recognized by Councilmember Villapudua for 26 years of service and leadership on the Minor Avenue project in District 5. - Jeff Vanover (Plant Maintenance Mechanic, MUD) – Recognized by Councilmember Villapudua for almost 29 years, starting as a tree surgeon in 1996. - Karen Mora (Assistant Director of Human Resources) – Recognized by Councilmember Padilla as the “backbone of HR” for her integrity and reliability. - Lori Green (Circulation Assistant, Stockton San Joaquin County Public Library) – Recognized by Councilmember Padilla for over 35 years of service and dedication to customer service. - Officer Robert Johnson III (Stockton Police Department) – Recognized by Councilmember Blower for over 28 years, including assignments in canine, gang suppression, and his current role addressing blight and the unhoused population. - Freddie Lee Nixon (Senior Permit Technician, Community Development) – Recognized by Councilmember Blower for efficient permit processing and training new staff. - Captain Kevin Taylor (Stockton Fire Department) – Recognized by Vice Mayor Lee for nearly 19 years of service, urban search and rescue and hazmat work, and preserving fire department history. - Kevin Blankenship (Parking Enforcement Supervisor, Economic Development) – Recognized by Vice Mayor Lee for his customer-focused approach and teamwork with SPD and LAZ Parking. - Brandon Sepulveda (Finance Department) – Recognized by Councilmember Enriquez for stepping up during staff shortages to maintain financial stability and budget management. - Florence Low (City Manager’s Office, Council Liaison) – Recognized by Mayor Fugazi for over 20 years coordinating council communications, managing Ask Stockton reports, and supporting all council members. Public Comments & Testimony - None. The city clerk reported no public comment cards were submitted. Key Outcomes - No votes or formal actions were taken; the meeting was informational and ceremonial. - The meeting adjourned at 11:01 AM.

The Stockton City Council held a special budget study session on June 5, 2025, from 2:15 PM to 4:50 PM to continue reviewing the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Annual Budget, Fee Schedule, and Capital Improvement Plan. The meeting focused on addressing a $15 million general fund deficit through reductions and reallocations. Council heard a detailed presentation from the Office of Violence Prevention, debated departmental budget requests, and gave staff direction for a balanced budget to be adopted on June 24, 2025. Consent Calendar - Item 3.1 (25-0626): Approved a motion authorizing a contract with Peckham & McKenney for executive recruitment support services to the Administrative Services Department (CFO, two ACFOs, budget officer, assistant budget officer, procurement manager) for a total not-to-exceed amount of $137,500. The motion carried 6-0 (Councilmember Ponce absent). Public Comments & Testimony - Mary Elizabeth (central Stockton resident): Expressed concern about the 6% utility tax applied to Cal Water customers, while city-provided water/sewer customers are exempt. She noted that many disadvantaged communities lie within the Cal Water service area and requested the city seek a breakdown of utility tax revenue and become more involved in California Public Utilities Commission proceedings to represent affected residents. Discussion Items - Office of Violence Prevention (OVP) Presentation: Director Lora Larson reported key outcomes of the Ceasefire model over 25 years (1997-2022): participants were 40% less likely to be reshot; overall recidivism reduced by 25%; violent recidivism reduced by 32%; homicides decreased by 30% (with a 13% reduction during COVID). Year-to-date as of June 2025: 17 homicides (29% decrease from prior year) and 44 non-fatal shootings (10% decrease). OVP’s total budget is $2.1 million ($961,181 general fund; $1,809,669 Measure A). Highlights of services: 172 employment services (12% increase), 208 social services (44% increase), 456 individuals engaged in therapeutic services (173% increase), 53 high school diplomas, 131 conflict mediations (134% increase), 93 shooting responses (16% decrease). OVP is pursuing Medi-Cal certification and grants (CalVIP and Prop 47) to fund school-based peacekeepers, a 24/7 crisis hotline, and expanded mental health/substance use programming. - Police and Fire Recruitment: Council discussed recruitment challenges, diversity, and retention. The fire department lacks a dedicated recruitment division, and retention is difficult due to higher pay and lower call volumes in the Bay Area. Council expressed support for the $35,000 annual recruitment budget for the fire department and suggested exploring preference points for local hires. Vice Mayor raised concerns about the elimination of the DEI officer position and the need for intentional recruitment from historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). - Budget Reduction Options: Staff presented a list of non-safety budget requests totaling $4.5 million that were not approved (e.g., charter office evaluations, federal lobbyist increase, library materials, parks maintenance contracts, traffic camera software). Safety-related requests totaling $4.9 million (fire telecommunications, police software, animal shelter support) were approved. Council also directed reducing the general fund contribution to the Capital Improvement Plan from $3.35 million to $1.35 million, with staff to prioritize projects. - Discretionary Funds: Vice Mayor questioned the city manager's discretionary budget, revealing a $150,000 allocation. Council agreed to reallocate these funds to council districts: $20,000 per councilmember and $30,000 to the mayor for community support activities. - Charter Review and Civil Service: Discussion on the rule-of-one (mandatory promotion of top candidate) and rule-of-three (choice among top three) for promotions. The Charter Review Commission has been tasked with examining the civil service section of the charter. Council requested a timeline for potential ballot measures. Key Outcomes - Motion 2025-06-05-0301 approved 6-0 for the Peckham & McKenney contract. - Budget Direction: Staff will incorporate the following into the final budget for adoption on June 24, 2025: - Approve $35,000 for fire department recruitment. - Explore funding for two full-time and five part-time OVP positions (school-based peacekeepers and lead peacekeeper) by reallocating existing general fund vacancies. - Reduce general fund CIP contribution to $1.35 million. - Reallocate $150,000 from city manager’s discretionary fund: $20,000 per councilmember and $30,000 to the mayor. - Follow-up Requests: - Staff to provide a report within one week on discretionary funding policies and the charter review timeline for civil service promotion rules. - Council requested monthly reports on contracts approved under the city manager's $100,000 discretionary authority, to be presented at Audit Committee meetings. - Next Steps: The balanced budget will be presented for final adoption at the June 24, 2025 City Council meeting.

The Stockton City Council held a special budget study session on June 4, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 8:49 PM (with a recess from 4:12 PM to 5:03 PM) to review the proposed Fiscal Year 2025-26 Annual Budget, Fee Schedule, and the 2025-2030 Capital Improvement Plan. The meeting began with a call to order and roll call, with Councilmembers Blower, Villapudua, Fugazi, Ponce, and Enríquez present; Padilla and Vice Mayor Lee arrived at 2:01 PM. No public comments were made. The session featured presentations from multiple departments, a discussion of a $15 million general fund shortfall, and five recommended strategies to achieve a structurally balanced budget. Consent Calendar - No items were presented as a consent calendar; all items were discussed individually. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Discussion Items - Budget Overview: Brandon Sepulveda, Budget Analyst II, presented the city manager’s proposed FY 2025-26 budget totaling $996 million in citywide expenditures, a 4.2% increase from the previous year. The general fund budget is $341.6 million, with police (54%) and fire (21%) accounting for over 75% of general fund spending. Revenues are projected at $326.6 million, a 0.6% increase, leaving a $15 million gap. The long-range financial plan shows expenditures growing faster than revenues, with projected budget gaps in 2033-34 and a recession expected in 2026-27. - Department Presentations: Presentations were given by IT (Jamil Niazi), Human Resources and Administrative Services (Rosemary Rivas), Economic Development (Tina McCarty), Community Development (Stephanie Ocasio), Community Services (Kris Farro), Non-Departmental/Charter Offices (Will Crew), City Manager’s Office (interim city manager), Public Works (Eric Alvarez), Municipal Utilities (Dr. Mel Lytle), Fire Department (Chief Richard Edwards), and Police Department (Chief Stanley McFadden). Key themes included rising costs for salaries, benefits, and operations; recruitment and retention challenges; deferred maintenance; and reliance on grants. - Budget Gap and Balancing Strategies: The city manager announced a $15 million general fund shortfall and proposed five strategies to close it: (1) deny all non-safety new budget requests ($4.5 million); (2) reduce the contingency budget from $2 million to $1.4 million ($600,000); (3) align the general fund contribution to the Capital Improvement Plan with the long-range financial plan, reducing it from $3.35 million to $1.3 million ($2.05 million); (4) redirect $1.7 million from the ERP project balance; and (5) increase the vacancy savings assumption from 5% to 7%, adding $6.09 million. These strategies total $15 million. - Request for Additional Information: Council members, particularly Vice Mayor Lee and Councilmember Enríquez, requested detailed lists of denied requests and the Office of Violence Prevention (OVP) presentation, which was not included in the city manager’s slide. The interim city manager agreed to provide the documentation and have OVP present at the continuation meeting on June 5. Key Outcomes - The council directed staff to provide a detailed list of all non-safety new budget requests that were denied, as well as a list of all department requests and positions. - The OVP will present its budget and operations at the next special meeting on June 5, 2025. - The council will continue deliberations on June 5 at 2:00 PM (closed session for council at 2:00 PM, public at 2:15 PM) to finalize budget decisions. - The proposed budget is scheduled for final adoption at the June 24, 2025 City Council meeting, which includes a public hearing. - No votes were taken during this study session; it was a discussion-only meeting.