Public Meetings - Stockton, California

The Stockton City Council met concurrently on May 13, 2025, beginning with a closed session at 3:00 PM and the regular session at 5:30 PM. The meeting covered a wide range of items including the continued use of military equipment, street and sidewalk vendor regulations, budget approvals for the Holiday Park Maintenance District, a car wash development, and summer youth programming. The council took several unanimous votes and directed staff to conduct additional community outreach on the vendor ordinance. Councilmember Mariela Ponce was absent. Consent Calendar - Approved en bloc (with items 12.5, 12.25, and 12.26 considered separately) by a 6-0 vote. Items included: - Resolutions for annual display of the Pride Flag (first week of June) and flags of U.S. military branches. - Mayoral appointments to council committees. - Approval of minutes from April 15, 2025. - Adoption of amendments to council policy on letterhead. - Ratification of SJCOG’s FY 2025-26 annual financial plan. - Award of various contracts and grants (e.g., on-call land surveyor services, REAP 2.0 grant application, CDBG fair housing services, labor compliance services, participation in PRISM risk pool, laboratory services, water/wastewater treatment chemicals, AB 109 funding, alarm intrusion program, sewer rehabilitation, parks pump repairs, fiber segment construction, dark fiber agreement, LED street light conversions, street resurfacing projects, guardrail repair, and youth jobs corps grant). - Item 12.2 (Second follow-up response to 2023-24 Grand Jury report) was moved to a June council meeting by a 4-2 vote (Enríquez and Lee dissenting). - Item 12.28 (formerly 15.3) – Ratification of appointment of Pandora Crowder to District 5 Planning Commissioner seat – approved. Public Comments & Testimony - General public comment (matters not on agenda): - Nancy Lamb, Pat Barrett, Cynthia Gail Boyd, Alyssa Leiva, Jensen San, Phillip Merlo, Vincent Cortino, Elena Mangahas, Alberto Gonzalez, Elissa Sok, Dan Richardson, and Julie Dunning spoke on topics including street vendors, homeless encampments, traffic safety, city hall revitalization, and park vendors. - Public hearing on military equipment (AB 481): - Michele Sherman expressed support, citing her completion of the Community Academy and appreciation for police transparency. - Alyssa Leiva opposed the excessive use of police military equipment, stating police already have 75% of the budget. - Alyssa Carson supported the equipment, noting its usefulness in school shooting situations. - Julie Dunning corrected misinformation about police budget percentages. - Public hearing on street vendor regulations: - Over 25 speakers addressed the item. Many supported vendors and urged the council not to pass the ordinance as drafted, citing affordability, language barriers, cultural significance, and the need for community input. Speakers representing vendors at Angel Cruz Park requested bathrooms, multilingual materials, and education before enforcement. - Some residents supported regulation, citing sanitation, traffic, and fairness to existing businesses. - Public hearing on Pershing Avenue update: - Dan Richardson and Julie Dunning highlighted dangerous speeding and urged funding for traffic mitigation. - Public hearing on youth programming: - Pat Barrett and Dan Richardson commented on pool openings, swim lessons, and long-term funding sustainability. Discussion Items - AB 481 Military Equipment (Item 16.1): - Lt. Ryan Terriel presented the SPD’s annual report and requested continued use and future acquisitions (e.g., drones, armored vehicles, breaching tools). The council clarified that approval did not commit new funding beyond existing budget. Approved 6-0. - Street and Sidewalk Vendor Regulations (Item 16.2): - Code Enforcement Field Manager Matt Van Fleet presented proposed ordinance updates to align with SB 946 and SB 972, including $60 annual park use fee, licensing, and fines. - Councilmembers Enríquez, Padilla, Lee, and Blower expressed the need for more community outreach and education. Councilmember Enríquez motioned to send the item back to the Legislative/Environmental Committee on May 27, 2025, with direction to staff to hold additional town halls in Districts 2, 5, and 6. The motion carried 6-0. - Holiday Park Maintenance District (Item 16.3): - Approved resolution authorizing $46,598 in assessments and a $130,898 subsidy from General Fund and Strong Communities Fund. Unanimous. - Car Wash at 200 N Wilson Way (Item 16.4): - Approved general plan amendment and rezone from Industrial to Commercial for a 4,500 sq ft automated car wash with water recycling. Unanimous. - Pershing Avenue Traffic Safety Update (Item 15.1): - Informational presentation by Director Chad Reed on efforts to secure funding for a complete streets project, including a radar speed sign and pedestrian safety improvements. No action taken. - Youth Programming for Summer 2025 (Item 15.2): - Informational presentation by Director Chris Farrow on free programs, teen trips, swim lessons, and expansion of pool hours. Council discussed pool openings (SUSE and Oak Park offline; McKinley mid-June, Victory July) and the need for more community center access. Key Outcomes - AB 481 Military Equipment: Approved (6-0) – authorized continued use and future acquisitions as outlined in the 2025 annual report. - Street Vendor Ordinance: Motion to return to Legislative Committee on May 27, 2025, with additional community town halls in multiple districts – carried 6-0. - Holiday Park Maintenance District: Resolution approved (6-0) – $46,598 assessment and $130,898 subsidy. - Car Wash Rezone: General plan amendment and zoning ordinance approved (6-0). - Consent Agenda (except 12.2 and 12.13): Approved (6-0). - Item 12.2 (Grand Jury response): Continued to June council meeting (4-2). - Youth Jobs Corps Grant (12.5): Approved (6-0) – accepted $3,618,275 grant from California Volunteers for youth employment. - Planning Commissioner Appointment: Ratified (6-0) appointment of Pandora Crowder. - City Manager’s Update: Noted upcoming job fair, pool openings, weed abatement, DC trip for federal funding, and street light repairs. - Council Comments: Covered district-specific cleanups, police memorial, youth violence concerns, and proposal for an outdoor ice skating rink for the holiday season.

The Stockton Planning Commission convened on Thursday, May 8, 2025, at 5:30 PM. The meeting included two public hearings: a food truck park/commissary project and a major update to the city's Development Code (Title 16). Both items were approved after amendments. Commissioners also discussed future code changes related to public safety and bike infrastructure. Public Comments & Testimony - Mary Elizabeth, representing the Delta Sierra Group of the Sierra Club, raised concerns about meeting minutes not reflecting submitted correspondence and requested better information on crime reporting districts. - On Item 5.1, Mary Elizabeth expressed concerns about fire access and bicycle parking. Applicant Mike Smith responded to questions. - On Item 5.2, Mary Elizabeth requested a continuation and a public workshop due to the 700-page document being available only one week. Mark Forster, on behalf of Century Communities, supported the proposed reduction in minimum lot width from 50 to 45 feet for low-density residential zoning, stating it would improve affordability and housing diversity. Discussion Items Item 5.1: Food Truck Park/Commissary at 3646 Telstar Place Staff presented plans for a 4.4-acre food truck park with 40 motorized food wagon spaces, 192 outdoor seats, 152 parking spaces, and amenities including restrooms, landscaping, and shade sails. A commission use permit and design review were required. An amendment to Condition 25 was added: refueling of propane tanks shall only occur after regular business operating hours, per fire department safety recommendations. Commissioners expressed strong support for the project, noting it was the first to utilize the food truck ordinance adopted previously. The item was approved unanimously (6-0). Item 5.2: Amendments to Title 16 (Development Code) Staff and consultant Martha Miller presented a comprehensive update focused on housing-related provisions, incorporating state law changes and alignment with the 2040 General Plan. Key changes included: new commercial heavy district, updated design standards, increased density bonuses (up to 100%), and revised ADU provisions. Two bench memos proposed excluding Chapter 16.28 (overlay districts) and reducing the minimum lot width for low-density residential from 50 to 45 feet. Commissioners discussed concerns about ADU compliance with state law, objective design standards, and the need for future fine-tuning. The motion to approve the resolution recommending the council adopt the ordinance as amended (excluding Chapter 16.28 and including the 45-foot lot width) passed 6-0. Key Outcomes - Item 5.1: Approved Resolution 2025-05-08-0501 for a commission use permit and design review for the food truck park/commissary, with amended Condition 25 regarding propane refueling hours. Vote: 6-0. - Item 5.2: Approved Resolution 2025-05-08-0502 recommending the City Council adopt the Title 16 amendments as amended by the two around-the-bench memos (excluding Chapter 16.28 and revising lot width to 45 feet). Vote: 6-0. - Chair Sanguinetti committed to following up with the Stockton Police Department on a calls-for-service report to explore potential code amendments addressing nuisances and public safety. - Commissioner Boparai announced his potential removal from the commission at the upcoming City Council meeting; multiple commissioners expressed support for his continued service.

The City Council held a concurrent meeting on April 29, 2025, starting with a closed session at 4:00 PM and a regular session at 5:45 PM, adjourning at 11:36 PM. Key actions included approval of the consent calendar (with three items pulled for separate votes), adoption of the 2025-2029 Consolidated Plan, removal of a historical plaque, and a contentious debate over a homelessness pilot program that resulted in a directive to return with a framework in 30 days. Several items were continued to the May 13, 2025 meeting. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda with a single 7-0 vote, except for items 12.4, 12.9, and 12.10 which were considered separately. - 12.4 (Stockton Tourism Business Improvement District 2024 Annual Report & 2025 Budget): Approved 7-0 after questions from Vice Mayor Lee. Visit Stockton CEO Robin Camino confirmed strong partnerships and committed to a future presentation. - 12.9 (Civic Auditorium Assessment Project): Approved 7-0. The contract (not-to-exceed $312,167) with Page and Turnbull, Inc. will include a structural/functional assessment and 3D laser scanning. - 12.10 (Oak Park Little League Parking Lot Resurfacing): Approved 7-0. Construction by Consolidated Engineering, Inc. ($133,250) will begin after the baseball season and take about 30 days. Public Comments & Testimony - General Public Comments (before consent): Over 30 speakers addressed various topics. Key positions: - Street vendor regulations: Dan Richardson and Julie Dunning urged adoption of the proposed ordinance to comply with state law, clarifying the city is not trying to eliminate vendors. - Affordable housing: Maria Alvarado and Rosa Mesa (Visionary Home Builders) defended the company’s transparency and commitment to affordable housing. - Homelessness: Nancy Lamb criticized the CARES pilot program name (conflict with existing CARES program) and raised concerns about Inner City Action’s board disclosure and low placement numbers (53 employed/98 housed over 5 years). - Neighborhood concerns: Zoyla Moreno (District 6) asked for a gym, gazebo, and enforcement of homeless encampments; Cynthia Gail Boyd complained about amplified noise from a church. - Youth and arts: Melissa Destarae (Tuleburg Press) highlighted literary programs; Ramona Mance (Bread of Life) described food distribution services. - Consent Item 12.5 (La Passeggiata Apartments funding): Mitchell Vinciguera (NorthCal Carpenters Union) opposed funding Visionary Home Builders due to alleged failure to pay area-standard wages. Visionary representatives defended their practices. - Item 16.2 (Consolidated Plan): Multiple speakers supported or expressed concerns about the CDBG/ESG allocation process. RC Thompson noted that his organization (Reinvent South Stockton) lost points due to jargon mismatch. Others, like Paula Sheil (Tuleburg Press) and Ashley Guest (Bread of Life), thanked the city for recommended funding. - Item 15.2 (Homeless Pilot Program): Over 25 speakers, including unhoused individuals, advocates, and organizations. Opinions divided: - Support: Matt Ulrich (Stockton Firefighters Local 456) backed the interim city manager’s leadership; Alberto Gonzalez supported action. - Opposition: Jessica Velez (Red Rabbit), James Hill (Stand), and several unhoused residents argued the plan lacked coordination, would displace people, and ignored community-led solutions. Mike Lopez (a former Trinity Parkway resident) said only 32 people live there and they do not want to move to a tent. Discussion Items - 15.1 Removal of California Historical Landmark 178 Plaque: Approved 5-0. City Clerk Katherine Roland explained the plaque’s inaccurate and offensive language, recommending removal. No public comment. - 15.2 CARE Homelessness Pilot Program: The interim city manager presented a plan to address the Trinity Parkway encampment, including a temporary shelter tent by Inner City Action Inc. (ICA). Council debate focused on vetting, lack of county coordination, and whether to approve a sole provider. After a substitute motion by Vice Mayor Lee (passed 4-3: Fugazi, Blower, Enriquez, Lee in favor), the council directed staff to return within 30 days with a framework that includes no sole provider listed as operator, full vetting, and discussion of an RFP process. The location (District 1) remained as proposed. - 16.2 Consolidated Plan 2025-2029 & Annual Action Plan: Approved 6-0 (Councilmember Ponce recused). Several councilmembers (Padilla, Lee, Enriquez) criticized the NOFA process as unclear and exclusionary. Staff committed to improving transparency and holding a study session by July 31, 2025, to modify the process. - Items continued to May 13, 2025: 15.3 (Pershing Avenue Update), 16.1 (Street Vendor Regulations), 16.3 (Holiday Park Maintenance District), and 16.4 (AB 481 Military Equipment). All were continued by a 7-0 vote. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved as modified (items 12.4, 12.9, 12.10 approved individually). - Historical Plaque: Removal approved. - Homeless Pilot Program: Substitute motion passed 4-3 – staff to return in 30 days with a framework, no sole operator listed, and include discussion of competitive bidding. - Consolidated Plan: Resolution 2025-04-29-1602 adopted 6-0, approving the plans and authorizing proportional adjustments based on HUD allocations. - Planning Commissioner Removal: Motion passed 6-1 to add an agenda item to the first May meeting to remove Gurneel Boparai and appoint a new commissioner. - Council Directives: - Vice Mayor Lee requested a full update on St. Mary’s Navigation Center/Pathways by the first meeting in June; also directed a study session on the NOFA process by July 31, 2025, and a presentation on summer youth programs within 30 days. - Mayor Fugazi emphasized adherence to decorum rules. - Upcoming Dates: - May 13, 2025: Continued items (vendor regulations, Pershing Ave, Holiday Park, AB 481). - May 20, 2025: Prop 36 presentation at Weston Ranch High School. - May 31, 2025: Vice Mayor Lee’s town hall (11 AM–2 PM). - June 2025: St. Mary’s update; NOFA study session by July 31.

At its meeting on April 24, 2025, the Stockton Planning Commission reviewed the Fiscal Year 2025-2030 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) for conformity to the Envision Stockton 2040 General Plan and conducted the 2024 annual compliance review of 10 active development agreements. Both items passed unanimously (6-0) with an amendment to one non‑compliant agreement. Public Comments & Testimony - Mary Elizabeth (fourth‑generation Stocktonian) expressed deep concern that the Commission repeatedly allows developers to avoid commitments, get extensions, and leave blight. She criticized the lack of public notice for EIRs and asked Commissioners to ask hard questions rather than accept “business as usual.” - Pat Barrett spoke twice: first on the CIP item, requesting more transparency and criticizing the roundabout near her home for hindering emergency vehicles and buses; later on the development agreement item, she asked whether any of the housing agreements include mixed‑income affordable units (the Chair clarified that housing element compliance is not part of this review). Discussion Items Item 6.1 – FY 2025-2030 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Conformity Determination - Assistant Director Mike McDowell presented the staff recommendation that the CIP conforms to the General Plan, highlighting policies on well‑maintained public facilities and multimodal roadways. Staff noted that new projects were highlighted in the report; no conformity challenges were identified. - Commissioner Hull requested that future CIP reports include a list of completed projects from the prior year so the public can see what was accomplished. - Several commissioners raised concerns about roundabout safety (Commissioner Amen, Vice Chair Muetzenberg). Public Works representatives noted that roundabouts are designed to slow traffic and that education materials could be developed. Commissioner Graves asked for accident data before/after roundabout installation; staff acknowledged that such data is not routinely tracked. - Commissioner Gurney questioned whether truck paths were adequately depicted in roadway improvement designs; staff noted that is a development code issue, not part of this CIP review. - No projects were found to present conformity challenges. The resolution (2025-04-24-0601) was adopted 6-0. Item 6.2 – 2024 Annual Compliance Review for Development Agreements - Senior Planner Anson Lahasett reviewed 10 development agreements (DAs). Of these, nine were found compliant. The tenth, Mariposa Lakes (approx. 3,800 acres), was found non‑compliant because the applicant had not entered into a required annexation agreement with the City. - Staff initially recommended requiring the applicant to apply for a new annexation agreement by April 2026 (12 months). - Chair Sanguinetti proposed a six‑month timeline, arguing that an annexation agreement is a simple memorandum of understanding, not a LAFCO action. The developer’s representative, Jerry Camillas, initially asked for nine months but agreed to six after discussion. - Other developers provided brief updates: Spanos Park West is built out; Westlake Villages is nearly complete; St. Joseph’s Hospital is beginning design for campus expansion; Port of Stockton remains compliant and growing. - Assistant Director McDowell gave an overview of development agreements as voluntary contracts that provide certainty to both developers and the City, often including community benefits (e.g., a fire station CFD in South Stockton). - The motion to accept the annual review with the amendment changing the Mariposa Lakes annexation deadline to six months passed 6-0. Reports & Commissioner Comments - Mike McDowell reported that the ad hoc committee has nearly completed a draft code amendment (part of the comprehensive Shape Stockton update) to be presented to the Commission on May 8, 2025. Another item on that agenda will be a use permit for a food truck park on Telstar near Hammer Lane. - Commissioner Boparai noted he is tracking 11 state bills. He highlighted AB 379 (reversing decriminalization of human trafficking), SB 764 (healthy children’s meal options at chain restaurants), and AB 573 (increased tobacco enforcement fines). He also stated that an illegitimate, forged letter of his resignation was submitted and rejected by the City Clerk; he remains an active commissioner. Vice Chair Muetzenberg expressed concern and asked about protective measures; McDowell noted City policies were effective in this case. Key Outcomes - Resolution 2025-04-24-0601 approved the CIP as conforming to the General Plan (6-0). - Motion 2025-04-24-0602 approved the 2024 annual development agreement compliance review (6-0), with the amendment requiring Mariposa Lakes to submit an annexation agreement within six months (by approximately October 24, 2025) instead of the originally proposed 12 months. - Staff was directed to notify all applicants of their compliance or non‑compliance determinations.

The Stockton City Council held a concurrent meeting on April 15, 2025, starting with a closed session at 4:01 PM and reconvening publicly at 5:30 PM. The regular session lasted until 11:37 PM and covered a wide range of issues including fire protection at the Port of Stockton, fire hydrant maintenance, a moratorium on new smoke shops, a public censure of Councilmember Villapudua, and the allocation of $1 million in discretionary funds. The council also approved several consent calendar items and heard extensive public testimony. Consent Calendar - Approved a resolution authorizing the summary vacation of waterline and public utility easements at Westlake Villages (Resolution 2025-04-15-1201). - Preliminarily approved the 2025-26 Annual Engineers’ Report and budget for the Stockton Consolidated Storm Drainage Maintenance Assessment District 2005-1, setting a public hearing for June 3, 2025 (Resolution 2025-04-15-1202). - Authorized the purchase of membrane filters from FilmTec Corporation for the Delta Water Treatment Plant in the amount of $486,981.20 (Resolution 2025-04-15-1203). - Awarded a three-year on-call streetlight foundation repairs contract to St. Francis Electric, LLC for up to $450,000, with optional extensions totaling $750,000 (Resolution 2025-04-15-1204). - Preliminarily approved the Central Stockton Lighting Maintenance District and the Stockton Consolidated Landscape Maintenance Assessment District No. 96-2 annual budgets, setting public hearings for June 3, 2025 (Resolutions 2025-04-15-1205 and 2025-04-15-1206). - Preliminarily approved the 2025-26 annual assessments for six industrial storm drainage basin maintenance districts, setting a public hearing for June 3, 2025 (Resolutions 2025-04-15-1207-01 through -06). - Approved the third amendment to the 2025 council meeting calendar, adding an April 29, 2025 meeting (Motion 2025-04-15-1208, passed 6-1). Public Comments & Testimony - General Public Comment (matters not on the agenda): - Julie Dunning thanked the council for recent audit committee actions and urged further accountability for the former city manager and auditor. - Pandora Crowder (Conway Homes Resident Council) announced a backpack giveaway and requested school supply donations. - Maria Perkins (CG Entertainment) requested city sponsorship for an August 16, 2025 event at Weber’s Point. - Dominick Gulli raised concerns about the Lower San Joaquin River Project cost overruns (from $1.4B to $1.95B) and urged careful review. - Jon Ness and Donnie Flatt (Waterbury Drive residents) requested speed bumps, citing dangerous speeding (60-70 mph in a 25 mph zone) and multiple accidents. - Cynthia Gail Boyd complained about diminished quality of life and lack of response from elected officials regarding safety on her street; requested a meeting with the Mayor and Police Chief. - Paul Ratto (former Camp Stockton Silverlake president) offered to help reopen the 103-year-old camp. - Erica Parker (Victory Gardens veteran) described management issues at her apartment complex, including retaliation and failure to conduct welfare checks, leading to a resident dying undiscovered for five days. - James Hill (Housing Justice Coalition) noted that fire hydrants are broken by homeless individuals needing water for hygiene and urged more mobile washing stations and investment in homeless facilities. - Mary Elizabeth criticized minutes accuracy, street sweeping issues, and unaddressed graffiti at the library. - Comments on Consent Item 12.7: - Mary Elizabeth questioned the adequacy of the engineer’s report for storm drainage districts, noting erosion from 2022-2023 floods and calling for upgraded infrastructure based on future climate data. - Comments on New Business 15.1 (Discretionary Funds): - Julie Dunning praised the proposed funding for traffic calming and the Gospel Center Rescue Mission as aligned with council priorities. - Zed Khan advocated for solar lighting to reduce energy costs and improve safety. - Cynthia Gail Boyd supported prioritizing safety over application order for traffic calming. - Comments on 15.2 (Fire Protection at the Port): - Julie Dunning cited risks from proposed hydrogen production and biomass storage projects at the port. - Devin Robson (Stockton Firefighters Union President) emphasized the resource burden on the city and lack of dedicated fire services at the port. - Mary Elizabeth noted that the port’s water infrastructure from the river is at risk from invasive golden mussels. - Pandora Crowder (community advocate) stated that port risks affect the entire city, especially South Stockton with high asthma rates, and that the port should pay for fire services. - Dan Richardson (District 4 resident) recounted a tanker rollover fire that required three engines and left his district uncovered, calling for the port to contribute. - John Luebberke (port attorney) argued that the port is the largest single property tax revenue source for the city and that it does pay for services, and that the city has an obligation to provide fire service within its borders. - Zaid Khan raised air quality concerns for residents living near the port. - Anitra Williams (clinician) warned that local hospitals are not equipped to handle burn patients from a potential port disaster. - Comments on 15.3 (Fire Hydrants and Air Quality Notification): - Zaid Khan suggested using technology to monitor hydrants more efficiently. - Mary Elizabeth noted that Cal Water charges residents for hydrants and that rates are high. - Gurneel Boparai urged training residents through the CERT program and noted that Assemblymember Ransom has already trained 40 people in Tracy. - Comments on 16.1 (Smoke Shop Moratorium): - Pandora Crowder said parents buy tobacco for children and urged holding parents accountable; asked about grandfathered shops near schools. - Marcus McDaniel (cigar lounge owner) asked that legitimate cigar lounges not be grouped with smoke shops. - Don Caral Cruz (American Cancer Society volunteer and three-time cancer survivor) urged a comprehensive ordinance to protect children, noting six smoke shops near a school. - Mary Elizabeth expressed distrust in city staff regarding conditional use permits for alcohol and tobacco. - Keesa Bruce (American Lung Association) recommended non-transferable licenses and free technical assistance from the Public Health Law Center. - Cynthia Gail Boyd questioned enforcement against existing illegally operating smoke shops. - Gurneel Boparai noted that gas stations also sell flavored tobacco and that state/federal enforcement is available. - Comments on 16.3 (Main and Market Streets Project): - Patsy Morez (document filed) argued community outreach was inadequate and that the project would negatively impact emergency response. - Cynthia Gail Boyd criticized existing traffic issues and the need for better signal timing. - Gurneel Boparai requested a dedicated bus lane for emergency vehicles and transit, noting that promises for such lanes on California Street and Airport Way were not kept. - Comments on 16.4 (Public Censure): - Pandora Crowder noted that the gesture was wrong but called for consistency, pointing to videos of other council members using similar language. - Ralph White echoed the call for accountability for all council members' public behavior. - Cynthia Gail Boyd asked for mercy and understanding, noting that the councilman is new and growing. - Gurneel Boparai said the councilman flipped off the entire community and has failed District 5 with business closures and inaction on homelessness; suggested resignation. Discussion Items - 15.1 – Allocation of $1,000,000 from FY 2023-24 Year-End Discretionary Funds: - Deputy City Manager Rosemary Rivas explained that the Budget/Finance/Economic Development Committee recommended $850,000 for the Neighborhood Traffic Management Program (NTMP) and $150,000 for the Gospel Center Rescue Mission. - Director of Public Works Chad Reed presented the current NTMP list and a prioritized list based on collision data. Councilmembers questioned the existing first-come, first-served process and agreed to shift to a safety-based priority. The Gospel Center funding was for the New Life program. - Outcome: Resolution 2025-04-15-1501 passed 7-0, appropriating $850,000 for NTMP and $150,000 for Gospel Center. - 15.2 – Presentation and Discussion on Fire Protection at the Port of Stockton (Informational): - Fire Chief Richard Edwards detailed the gap: the Port of Stockton (2,000 acres, second largest in California) has no dedicated fire station. The city provides fire services without a formal agreement; response times can exceed 15 minutes. The port pays permit fees and possessory interest taxes ($83.2M since 2012), but direct fire protection costs are uncovered. Chief Edwards proposed a five-year cost estimate for staffing an engine and truck company, and options including a service contract, community facilities district, or state policy change. - Vice Mayor Lee and others emphasized the high risk of hazardous materials and potential environmental disaster. The city manager confirmed ongoing inquiries with the county assessor about tax revenue and jurisdictional issues. - Public testimony highlighted risks from proposed hydrogen and biomass projects, and the lack of dedicated fire service. - Outcome: Informational item; no action taken. Council directed the city manager to continue negotiations with the port. - 15.3 – Presentation and Discussion on Fire Hydrants and Air Quality Notification Following the April 2 Three-Alarm Fire (Informational): - Deputy Chief Brandon Doolin recounted the fire at a recycling plant (2422 South California). Two public hydrants were out of service; one already had a red “out of service” tag. Firefighters overcame the challenge with water tenders and alternative hydrants. The fire produced toxic smoke from car parts and batteries. - He explained notification systems: Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) through San Joaquin County OES (requires a call chain) and the voluntary Everbridge system (only 25,000 subscribers). The department did not issue a WEA that night due to late hour; council expressed expectation for better public alerts. - Deputy Director of Water Resources Travis Small reported that the city has 7,500 public hydrants (1,500 private). Currently about 20-23 are non-operational due to damage, often from homeless misuse (brass stems stripped). Annual inspections by Xylem Dewatering identify issues; MUD repairs them from a $289,000 annual budget. Only four hydrants are replaced per year; many are over 50 years old. MUD and fire department agreed to improve communication and provide daily status updates. - Councilmember Blower questioned the fragmented responsibility (MUD vs. Cal Water) and the need for long-term solutions, possibly transferring ownership to water purveyors. The mayor suggested exploring sensor technology. Fire Chief Edwards clarified the water system is robust. - Outcome: Informational item; no action taken. Council urged better internal communication and exploration of funding for hydrant replacement. - 16.1 – Public Hearing: Extension of Urgency Ordinance (Smoke Shop Moratorium): - Revenue Officer Sharon Dillingo presented proposed regulations including safety/security plans, distance requirements (1,000-2,500 feet), caps on licenses, and increased penalties ($25,000 per day for flavored tobacco violations). The extension is for 10 months and 15 days under state law. - Mayor Fugazi proposed even stricter provisions, including seizure of all flavored tobacco products. - Councilmembers expressed strong support for a comprehensive permanent ordinance. - Outcome: Urgency Ordinance 2025-04-15-1601 approved 7-0, extending the moratorium until February 2026. - 16.2 – Public Hearing: Consolidated Plan, Annual Action Plan, etc. (HUD Programs): - Deputy Director Jordan Peterson presented the plan for CDBG, HOME, and ESG funding for 2025-2029. The process included extensive outreach since September2024. - Vice Mayor Lee requested more time for council to review applications and scoring. - Outcome: Motion to continue to April29, 2025 passed 7-0. - 16.3 – Public Hearing: Negative Declaration and Precise Road Plan for Main and Market Street Complete Streets Project: - Consultant Paul Schneider and staff presented the plan to reduce lanes from two to one in each direction, add buffered bike lanes, bulb-outs, and roundabouts to calm traffic and improve safety. The project has $8 million in grants at risk if delayed. The planning commission recommended approval. - Councilmember Villapudua tried to table the item but failed (no second). Councilmembers expressed support for investment in the east side but concerns about community outreach; Schneider noted future design-phase outreach. - Outcome: Resolution 2025-04-15-1603 passed 7-0, adopting the initial study/negative declaration and approving the precise road plan. - 16.4 – Public Hearing: Public Censure of Councilmember Villapudua: - City Clerk Katherine Rowland explained the process. Vice Mayor Lee initiated the censure after a video showed Councilmember Villapudua making an obscene gesture at a member of the public during the March4 meeting. The Ad Hoc Committee (Mayor Fugazi, Councilmember Enríquez, Councilmember Ponce) recommended censure. - Councilmember Villapudua apologized to District5 and the city, stating he is focused on results. - Councilmembers debated the severity; some noted the previous censure (former councilmember) involved misuse of funds ($10,000+). Vice Mayor Lee defended the action as upholding accountability. Councilmember Blauer urged consistency and noted the councilman’s apology. - Outcome: Resolution 2025-04-15-1604 passed 6-0 (Councilmember Villapudua abstained), approving the censure. Key Outcomes - Approval of $1 million discretionary funding: $850,000 for Neighborhood Traffic Management (prioritized by collision data) and $150,000 for Gospel Center Rescue Mission (Resolution 2025-04-15-1501, 7-0). - Extension of smoke shop moratorium: Extended until approximately February 2026 to allow development of permanent regulations (Ordinance 2025-04-15-1601, 7-0). - Approval of Main and Market Street Complete Streets Plan: Adopted CEQA negative declaration and precise road plan (Resolution 2025-04-15-1603, 7-0). - Public Censure of Councilmember Villapudua: Approved (Resolution 2025-04-15-1604, 6-0 with one abstention). - Deferral of HUD consolidated plan: Continued to April 29, 2025 meeting (Motion 2025-04-15-1602, 7-0). - Consent calendar approved: 7-0 (except item 12.8 on meeting calendar, passed 6-1). - Directed city manager to negotiate with Port of Stockton for fire protection services and to continue revenue analysis. - Directed staff to improve hydrant communication and explore funding for replacement and maintenance. - Added April 29, 2025 council meeting to the calendar (Motion 2025-04-15-1208, 6-1).

The Stockton Planning Commission met on April 10, 2025, from 5:30 PM to 9:01 PM. Chair Jeff Sanguinetti presided. Commissioners present were Gurneel Boparai, Terry Hull, Derek Graves, William Muetzenberg, and Yolanda Amen, who arrived at 5:43 PM. The commission acted on a consent calendar, conducted public hearings on two development requests, heard a Police Department informational presentation, and received staff and commissioner reports. Consent Calendar - 3.1 Tra Vigne East (P25-0031): Approved Resolution 2025-04-10-0301 granting a third one-year time extension for the approved Vesting Tentative Map. - 3.2 Tra Vigne West (P24-0260): Approved Resolution 2025-04-10-0302 granting a third one-year time extension for the approved Vesting Tentative Map. - 3.3 Cannabis Use Permit Denial (P24-0214): Approved Resolution 2025-04-10-0303 denying a Use Permit for a cannabis retail storefront and non-storefront delivery business at 4895 State Route 99 Frontage Road, Suite C. - Motion by Commissioner Hull, seconded by Commissioner Boparai; carried 4-1. Commissioner Graves voted no; Commissioner Amen was absent for the vote. Public Comments & Testimony - General public comment: None. - Item 5.1 – 6505 South McKinley Avenue: Raul Hernandez, representing plumbers and pipe fitters, spoke in favor, citing more than 700 Stockton households in the union and support for local union construction jobs. Mitch Vinciguerra, a Carpenters Union field representative, also spoke in favor, noting more than 1,000 union members in Stockton. - Item 5.3 – Murray Ranch: Several residents spoke in opposition or raised concerns. Andrea Blanson, Benji Adams, Gloria Prieto, Tim Mora, Calvin Jones, Patrick Gonzalez, William Espinosa, and Peter Torner Jr. described Hall Avenue as a narrow country road and a dead-end neighborhood; they objected to increased traffic, safety risks, lack of notice, loss of community character, and impacts on their homes. Some requested an alternative access point through Section Avenue or the Murray Trailer property. Gloria Prieto also reported a nearby environmental study allegedly finding an Indian artifact and asked whether it had been reported. Applicant Mike O'Hara responded that project studies found no cultural artifacts on site, augering had been done, and archaeological monitoring would be provided in sensitive areas. Discussion Items Item 5.1 – Continued Mitigated Negative Declaration, Prezoning, and Design Review, 6505 South McKinley Avenue (P23-0125) - Staff summarized added conditions responding to earlier commission concerns: Condition 20 limits truck idling to 3 minutes and requires visible signage; Condition 21 requires a double row of 15-gallon trees along the southern property line adjacent to residential-designated parcels. - The commission discussed stormwater and flood risk. Staff responded that the project must comply with the city's master storm drainage plan and floodplain ordinance, and that stormwater detention features would be required before building permits. - Commissioner Boparai referenced a Sierra Club letter asking for more trees, idling signs, and flood-mitigation investment; staff noted existing floodplain and drainage requirements. - The motion recommended the City Council adopt the Mitigated Negative Declaration, adopt the pre-zoning of APN 193-020-34 to Industrial Limited, and approve Design Review. The motion passed 6-0. - Note: The agenda lists approved resolutions 2025-04-10-0501-01/02, while the motion text in the minutes references 2025-04-10-0502-01/02; the source documents conflict on the resolution numbers. Item 5.2 – Alcohol Beverage License Upgrade, 10715 Trinity Parkway (P24-0254) - Pulled from the agenda for further review; no action taken. Item 5.3 – Murray Ranch Annexation, Prezoning, Vesting Tentative Map, Planned Development, Waiver, and Heritage Tree Removal, 2560 Hall Avenue (P23-0346) - Staff presented the 37.4-acre project proposing 217 single-family residential lots, with 28.56 acres at 2560 Hall Avenue and 8.84 acres at 2530 East Section Avenue. The project is designated Low Density Residential in the 2040 General Plan; gross density would be 5.8 dwelling units per acre, below the 6.1 maximum, and net density would be 9.2 dwelling units per acre, above the 8.7 maximum, requiring a waiver. Open space totals 351,965 square feet, about 8.22 acres, or roughly 21% of the site. The project would remove up to 47 heritage trees with a 3:1 replacement ratio, requiring 141 new trees. - Staff recommended no further environmental review under Public Resources Code Section 21083.3 and CEQA Guidelines Section 15183, approval of the vesting tentative map, planned development, waiver, and heritage tree removal, and a recommendation to City Council for pre-zoning to Residential Low. - Applicant Mike O'Hara of Tim Lewis Communities said the project addresses state housing mandates, was described as affordable by design, and would have anticipated starting prices around $500,000. He noted the project includes parks, a dog park, a fitness circuit, and preserved oak and seasonal creek areas. - In response to public concerns, traffic consultant Yo-Yo Zheng said the project's three access points would distribute traffic. Hall Avenue would see about 60-70 project trips in peak hours; the delay at Hall Avenue and Mariposa Road would remain around 4-5 seconds plus about 1 second, and no signal or turn lane would be required. - The commission discussed CEQA, biological and cultural resources, and county jurisdiction over Hall Avenue. Chair Sanguinetti noted Hall Avenue is county-maintained and the city cannot condition improvements to it. He also noted that future street connections had been anticipated in prior subdivision approvals. - Chair Sanguinetti asked staff to provide at least 20 days' notice and to send notices to all Hall Avenue addresses for the future City Council hearing, rather than only the 300-foot statutory notice area. Reports & Informational Items - Chair Sanguinetti reported that the ad hoc committee met with staff to review the development code update; they reviewed division one and part of division two and scheduled another meeting. - Deputy Director Mike McDowell said he would meet individually with commissioners to discuss findings and how the code applies to decision-making. - A Police Department captain presented top calls-for-service statistics. He noted that high-reporting businesses are often cooperative partners in combating organized retail theft, and that raw statistics alone should not be used to penalize businesses. He suggested working with the city attorney and the code-revision process to add tools for chronic nuisance locations. The presentation was informational only; no action was taken. - Commissioner Boparai commented on the City of Tracy Planning Commission's warehouse ordinance process and raised the possibility of a formal liaison role. The city attorney advised that any representation on behalf of the Stockton Planning Commission should be formalized at a future meeting. - Commissioner Amen apologized for arriving late and shared that her husband had recently undergone quadruple bypass surgery. Key Outcomes - Consent calendar approved 4-1, adopting Resolutions 2025-04-10-0301, 0302, and 0303. - Item 5.1 approved 6-0, recommending City Council adoption of the Mitigated Negative Declaration, pre-zoning, and Design Review, subject to Conditions 20 and 21. - Item 5.3 approved 6-0. The motion, made by Chair Sanguinetti and seconded by Commissioner Boparai, approved Resolutions 2025-04-10-0503-01 and 0503-02, with an added condition requiring the owner, developer, and successors in interest to conduct a pre-construction biological survey for potential sensitive species. - Item 5.2 was pulled and not heard. - Police Department presentation was informational only; staff will incorporate follow-up through the ad hoc code-revision process. - Meeting adjourned at 9:01 PM.

The Stockton City Council held a special planning workshop on April 1, 2025, from 9:07 AM to 3:08 PM at the University Plaza Waterfront Hotel, 110 W Fremont St, Stockton, CA. Councilmembers Michael Blower, Brando Villapudua, Michele Padilla, Christina Fugazi, Mario Enríquez, and Jason Lee were present; Councilmember Mariela Ponce was absent and sent regrets. The workshop was facilitated by Rod Gould and Jennifer Teal of the Raftelis consulting firm. This was the mayor's ninth priority-setting meeting. The session was informational only, with no formal action taken. It went into recess at 11:12 AM and reconvened at 11:25 AM. Public Comments & Testimony - Dan Richardson spoke about North Pershing Avenue, stating that despite being a priority for the last two planning sessions, nothing has been done. He expressed no hope that the federal administration will help and urged the city to make street improvements part of the plan. - Pat Barrett spoke about the unhoused, hoping the city's plan will move forward and that "a million little people" and organizations working on the issue will be included in the solution, not just handpicked groups. She also raised concerns about street repairs. - Pandora Crowder, a South Side resident and member of the Housing Justice Coalition, presented survey results: over 350 responses showed 65% of respondents did not believe Stockton is affordable, 59% experienced difficulty finding affordable housing, and 72% spend more than 30% of their income on rent. She called on the city to redefine "affordable," stating it is not the HUD standard, and argued housing is a basic right. She also called for a moratorium on penalizing unsheltered individuals and for supporting nonprofits like Red Rabbit. - Dominic Gooley (listed as "Dominic Guilli" in the minutes; the transcript says "Gooley"), a licensed civil engineer and small business owner who works on Delta levees, expressed support for a diverse marine-based business future, including shipbuilding and recreational boating. He cited local shipbuilding history and urged redevelopment south of Fremont Street. - Julie Dunning commended the council for producing what she described as the first document that looks like a strategic plan, affirmed earlier speakers' comments, and urged the council to set priorities and hold them as the basis for every decision, including funding votes. - Mark Stebbins raised concerns about the federal crisis and faltering economy, called for a permanent year-round downtown farmers market, pushed for San Joaquin Delta College to offer agriculture degrees, and urged restoration of libraries and parks. - R. C. Thompson said blight and illegal dumping in South Stockton "is getting out of hand," citing a volunteer cleanup that removed 10 tons in four hours, with trucks lining up to dump during the removal. He also asked for more accessible community event space on the South Side. - James Hill, Senior Project Coordinator for the reInvent South Stockton Coalition, requested that ending illegal dumping be made a higher priority, with more enforcement, cameras, and proactive city responses. He noted that the county's behavioral health outreach team could not attend a cleanup because their federal grant was cut effective immediately, and asked the city to support local community-based organizations instead. - Patsy Zimaross (transcribed as "Pat Timoraz" in the transcript), representing the East Side Police Advisory Board, opposed the Main Street/Market Street precise road plan that would reduce a main thoroughfare from four lanes to two, citing traffic safety and flood evacuation concerns, and requested more public meetings before the April 15th agenda item. Discussion Items Department Presentations - City Manager's Office (Steve Colangelo, Interim City Manager) – Described internal and external city services and divisions including the Office of Violence Prevention, Office of Performance and Data Analytics, and Environmental and Sustainability Division. - Police Department (Captain Annabelle Morris) – Reported a $186 million annual operating budget. In 2024: over 35,000 calls for service, over 80,000 reports taken, over 10,000 cases assigned for follow-up, over 8,000 arrests, and over 7,000 animals taken in by animal services. Recruitment efforts resulted in 4,700 applications; 66 sworn personnel were hired, a 120% increase over 2023, with an average hiring rate of one out of every 100 applicants. The department also hired 43 full-time and 19 part-time professional staff. New technology investments include FUCSIS, Peregrine, and Prepared 911. - Fire Department (Chief Richard Edwards) – The department serves approximately 369,000 people, including four contract districts, with 210 uniform personnel and about 12 vacancies (6% of staffing), to be filled in the August academy. The fiscal year 2024-25 budget is $86.2 million. Staffing includes 59 firefighters on duty daily across 13 firehouses and four truck companies. In 2024, the department averaged about 166 calls per day, responded to 194 structure fires, and 13% of all responses had a homeless component. The dispatch center answered more than 224,000 calls. Chief Edwards announced his last day will be July 25, 2025, and discussed a succession plan with a deputy chief returning to shadow him. Councilmembers asked about pre-bankruptcy staffing ratios (four firefighters per apparatus versus current lower levels) and emphasized sharing the department's work publicly. - Community Services (Chris Farrow, Director) – The department operates recreation and library divisions with 28 full-time recreation staff plus 240 part-time positions, and 79 full-time library staff plus 80 part-time staff. There are 13 vacancies, three held for the Northeast opening. Key accomplishments include real-time translation software, the Playmobile, LinkedIn Learning, and Project Toolbox. Projects include opening McKinley Park Pool, Victory Park Pool, and the Ursula Meyer Library and Community Center this calendar year, plus designs for the Cesar Chavez Central Library Renovation, Van Busker Golf Course Reuse, and Maya Angelou Library renovation. The Van Busker reuse is approximately 35-40% through design and will include a skate park, splash pad, and community garden. Farrow noted a request for a marketing position. The mayor and council raised the possibility of re-engaging with the Boys and Girls Club. - Economic Development (Tina McCarty, Acting Director) – The department oversees real property, business operations, housing, homelessness, events, and parking. In the past year: 106 outreach events, 59 pre-permit meetings, 49 council reports, over half a million in downtown event attendance, 225 special event permits, over one million vehicles parked downtown, and 10,832 parking citations. The department manages $114 million in grant funding and processed 1,500 financial transactions. Upcoming projects include the consolidated plan and annual action plan (due April 15), the Buckley Cove dredging project (first dredge in at least 30 years), and Banner Island Ballpark renovation. The department has three leadership vacancies. Councilmember Lee questioned why housing and homelessness sits within economic development and suggested it should be its own division; McCarty acknowledged synergies but said the department spends more energy on housing than economic development. The acting director confirmed the navigation center remains on track for May occupancy and the Pathways project should open by summer. - Community Development (Stephanie) – The department has 51 full-time staff, 10 part-time staff, and 5 contract staff, with 2 vacancies. Per-capita staffing is one employee per 6,265 residents, compared to Sacramento and Modesto which have 94% and 37% higher per-capita staffing rates respectively. The department is primarily self-funded with only about 3.5% general fund contribution. It processes about 12,000 permits annually, conducts over 22,000 inspections, and serves nearly 16,000 people at the permit center. Building permit turnaround times have been reduced 32-59% since 2021, saving customers an average of 7-23 days. The department is updating Title 16 (development code), the PFF Nexus study, and the ADA transition plan. - Public Works (Chad Reed, Director) – The department has 170 budgeted positions with 141 filled, a $70 million annual operating budget, and an active CIP portfolio of roughly $538 million, with 116 projects in design and 43 active construction projects. Accomplishments include removing 2,463 tons of illegally dumped trash, 1,150 tons from Mormon Slough, filling 17,000 potholes, completing 34 construction projects, and securing $19.2 million in grants. Reed noted that resurfacing investment is about $6 million per year while the pavement management system indicates $20 million per year is needed just to maintain the current PCI, meaning the city is falling behind. He also discussed tree stump removal, the airport bike lane maintenance issue (noting the city does not budget adequately for bike lane maintenance), and a new CIP management system. Councilmembers discussed the need for public education on street prioritization and project tracking transparency. - Municipal Utilities (Jeff Morosvich, Deputy Director) – Substituting for Dr. Lytle, Morosvich described water, wastewater, and stormwater utilities with 233 approved positions (202 filled). The wastewater treatment plant has a 55 MGD capacity, averages about 33 MGD, and includes a co-generation facility. A $20+ million plant modifications project is underway, including new headworks, UV disinfection, and a new outfall discharging directly into the San Joaquin River. Stormwater utilities include about 700 miles of pipes, about 22,000 catch basins, and about 70 pump stations, plus a trash boat used to clean McLeod Lake. - Information Technology (Jamel Nyazzi, Director) – IT supports city systems with 43 full-time positions (one vacancy, one in police background check) and an ERP team of 10 limited-term positions (seven vacancies). The department fields about 145,000 daily attempts to break into city systems on the firewall and conducts cybersecurity training. The department is also developing AI policies and templates. - Human Resources (Rosemary Revis, Director) – HR has 37 full-time employees across six divisions, with three vacancies. Priorities include filling vacancies, expanding internship programs with local colleges including Delta and UOP, correcting payroll errors, and negotiating tentative agreements with safety units prior to expiration. - Administrative Services (Courtney Christie, Deputy City Manager) – The department has 91 budgeted positions and is carrying about 20 vacancies, with the majority at the upper management level, including vacant CFO and both assistant CFO positions. The Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFER) was due at the beginning of the year with the extension period ending March 31; the city now expects completion in May, which will likely result in audit findings but no financial penalties. The budget module within Munis has been down since February, requiring manual entry. Consultants are being brought in for an assessment and efficiency study, CFO/ACFO recruitment support, and accounting staff augmentation. - Procurement (Stephanie Link, Acting Procurement Manager) – Described procurement thresholds: purchases up to $10,000 require a single source; purchases between $10,000.01 and $100,000 require an informal solicitation or minimum of three quotes; purchases over $100,000 require formal solicitation and city council approval. Exceptions to competitive bidding are governed by Stockton Municipal Code 3.68070. In FY 2023-24, procurement processed 7,100 purchase orders worth $94.5 million, 387 contracts, 52 single-source justification forms, over 16,000 PCard transactions worth $6.6 million, and 41 formal solicitations. Long-Range Financial Plan (Bob Leland, Baker Tilly) Bob Leland presented the Long-Range Financial Plan (LRFP), which dates back to Stockton's 2012 bankruptcy and is updated annually. Key assumptions include: 2% annual COLAs, an additional third of a percent net impact of merit increases, vacancy savings declining from 10% in FY25 to 4% by FY30, a 6.2% pension discount rate (versus CalPERS' 6.8%), moderate recessions every seven years starting FY27, renewal of Measure A by the City Council before its FY34 expiration, and expiration of Measure M on schedule in FY33, which would create a major general fund expenditure increase if services are continued. The forecast assumes about $1.3 million in annual capital improvement contributions starting FY28. Leland presented two hypotheticals: adding 10 police officer positions in 2026 would cost about $51 million over 20 years; and a combination of $5 million in ongoing budget expense, one average-cost miscellaneous FTE plus one safety FTE added annually, and COLAs of 2.5% would put the general fund in deficit by FY36. Councilmember Villapudua asked about forecasting growth outside of Measure A, including property tax revenue sharing with the county; Leland said such scenarios could be modeled. Priority Setting Exercise The council discussed and debated priority categories. Facilitators proposed narrowing to "big rocks" (three or four top priorities) above baseline municipal services. Councilmembers discussed whether expanding youth activities belongs under public safety, whether parks/facilities should be combined with infrastructure investment, and whether environmental sustainability should stand alone. With three stickers each, the dot voting resulted in: Enhancing public safety (including expanded youth activities) – 6 dots; Addressing homelessness – 6 dots; Infrastructure investment and maintenance (including cleaning up parks and facilities) – 5 dots; Environmental sustainability (including public and environmental health) – 1 dot. Interim City Manager Steve Colangelo committed to bringing back measurable, verifiable actions within current staffing and budget realities and to reporting progress every three to six months; he noted his contract expires in August. Governance Discussion The facilitators led a discussion on council-manager government, team formation, roles of the mayor, council, city manager, city attorney, and clerk, and norms from the Institute for Local Government's "Attributes of High Performing Councils." Discussion covered the importance of clear policy/administration separation, praising publicly and criticizing privately, avoiding surprise moves, the "no surprise" rule, and communicating equally with all council members. Councilmembers pushed back on some recommendations, particularly around public questioning of staff and private criticism, with Councilmember Lee stating that accountability must be transparent. When asked what they want the council to be known for, members cited: making a difference, doing what they said they would do, increasing public engagement, being accountable and transparent, supporting staff, working together as a team, actively listening, being fiscally responsible, and maintaining healthy competition. Key Outcomes - The council selected three priority areas via sticker voting: (1) Enhancing public safety, including expanded youth activities; (2) Addressing homelessness; (3) Infrastructure investment and maintenance, including cleaning up parks and facilities. Environmental sustainability received one dot and was not selected as a top priority for the coming year, though councilmembers noted it remains important and has existing funding (e.g., TCC grant, AB 617). - The Interim City Manager committed to return with measurable and verifiable actions for the selected priorities within current resources and to report progress to the council every three to six months. - The city will continue pursuing a new city manager, CFO, and assistant CFO recruitments; a procurement study session and a CIP study session in June were mentioned as upcoming. - The meeting was informational only; no formal council action was taken. The workshop adjourned at 3:08 PM.

The Stockton City Council met on April 1, 2025, in a concurrent session with the Successor Agency, Public Financing Authority, and Parking Authority. The meeting began with a closed session at 4:00 PM (adjourned at 4:50 PM), followed by a regular session at 5:30 PM that adjourned at 8:38 PM. Key actions included approval of a consent agenda (with one item pulled), adoption of a resolution for the Homekey+ grant program to fund 120 affordable housing units, a Williamson Act contract cancellation for a 43.66-acre parcel, and an informational update on the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CCAP). Numerous public comments addressed street vendor regulations, tobacco retailer licensing, water utility issues, and community concerns. Consent Calendar - Approved 18 items via a single 7-0 vote, with item 12.3 considered separately. Items included: - Amendment to card room table limits (Ordinance 2025-04-01-1201). - Cooperative purchasing agreement with O'Reilly Auto Parts (up to $150,000/year). - Extension of a temporary moratorium on new tobacco retailers (Motion 2025-04-01-1203, approved 7-0 after public comment). - Acceptance of committee minutes and city council minutes. - Subdivision agreement and parcel map approval (Resolution 2025-04-01-1206). - Annual reports and budgets for Miracle Mile and Downtown Stockton improvement districts. - Allocation of 131 affordable housing units across three projects (Satellite, Harding Way, Calaveras Quarters Apartments). - Contracts for wastewater treatment polymer ($671,866 over 5 years), stormwater device maintenance ($479,985 for 3 years), bioscrubber repairs ($646,927), night vision goggles ($584,865), and nature-based solutions grant program. - Fiscal year 2025-26 SB1 road project list, pedestrian safety enhancements ($308,586 design contract), and two sanitary sewer rehabilitation projects (Navy Drive $7,366,500; Worth Street $5,136,310). Public Comments & Testimony - Julie Dunning: Supported the temporary moratorium on tobacco retailers but opposed staff recommendation to maintain existing exceptions; requested 1,000-foot separation distance from sensitive uses. - Dan Richardson: Praised city staff work ethic and council efforts; urged citizen participation. - Pat Barrett: Requested follow-through on Van Buskirk multi-service park; expressed concerns about card rooms, tobacco sales, and cost of Hunter House project ($36 million for 120 units). - Mary Elizabeth: Raised animal control responsiveness; supported tobacco moratorium; requested a map of alcohol and tobacco retailers; questioned density of a Harding Way project without a map. - Pandora Crowder: Questioned a warehouse contract with a company not supporting DEI; criticized council for asking public to bring solutions rather than doing their job. - Anthony Silva: Thanked council for police substation plans and positive direction; urged continued focus on homelessness and blight. - Mauricio Diaz: Opposed street vendor removal; called for more investment in District 5 including youth programs and job opportunities. - Zed Khah: Proposed business startups, trade segments, and affordable housing for law enforcement officers. - Alyssa Leiva, Jenesta Franco, Nadia Garibay, CJ, Alicia Reya, Angela Salizar: Opposed proposed street vendor regulations, citing negative impacts on immigrant communities, culture, and economic survival; urged education over enforcement. - Kimberly Graves & Ezra Curri: Alleged CalWater discrimination regarding water meter requirements; requested council intervention. - Stacy Harrison: Represented Central Valley Realtist Board; asked council to support fair housing proclamation and assist underserved homebuyers. - Juanita French: Raised safety concerns about parking changes on California Street (parallel parking hazards). - Fateh Singh: Invited community to 26th Annual Saki Parade on April 20, 2025 (9 AM - 4 PM). - Dominic Gulli: Warned about safety of Smith Canal Gate; urged dredging and Coast Guard approval. - Alfonso Torres: Requested city employee volunteers for mock interview program at Franklin High School on May 9, 2025. Discussion Items - Item 15.1: Climate Action and Adaptation Plan Update – Informational presentation by Environmental and Sustainability Officer Grant Kirkpatrick and consultants from AECOM. The plan combines federal EPA CPRG funding ($1 million) and state adaptation planning grant ($650,000) to develop a comprehensive CCAP. Key elements: greenhouse gas inventory, climate vulnerability assessment, community engagement via Little Manila Rising, and first workshop on April 23, 2025 at Stockton Civic Auditorium. Councilmembers Villapudua and Lee stressed inclusive outreach to all districts, especially underserved areas. No action taken. - Item 15.2: Homekey+ Grant Program for Hunter House Affordable Housing – Resolution 2025-04-01-1502 approved 7-0. Authorized application for up to $36 million in state Homekey+ funds (co-applicant: Service First of Northern California) for the Hunter House project (120 units for individuals with behavioral health challenges and homelessness). Also allocated $1,301,263 in HHAP funds to Service First. Total state funding to date: $29,454,857; city contribution will reach $3 million. Project aims to break ground by October 2025 if funded. - Item 16.1: Williamson Act Contract Cancellation – Resolution 2025-04-01-1601 approved 7-0. Tentative cancellation for a 43.66-acre parcel at 4849 Carolyn Weston Boulevard (APN 166-030-05) to allow development of 211 single-family homes (224 parcels) consistent with low-density residential zoning. Developer (True Life Companies) noted the site is a long-held agricultural holdout; grading could begin within 60 days. Public commenter Pandora Crowder raised concerns about floodplain, gentrification, and asthma rates in South Stockton. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved 18 items with one pull (item 12.3 on tobacco moratorium report). Item 12.3 approved separately 7-0; council directed staff to consider increasing the separation distance from 1,000 to 2,500 feet for the upcoming permanent ordinance. - Homekey+ Resolution: Unanimously approved (7-0). The city will lead the application for $36 million; $1.3 million in HHAP funds allocated; if Homekey+ fails, city funding will be deobligated. - Williamson Act Cancellation: Approved 7-0, allowing developer to pay cancellation fees and proceed with subdivision. - Climate Action Plan: Informational only; no vote. Staff will continue community engagement and bring back the draft plan for future council action. - City Manager’s Update: Noted completion of payroll improvements, electrical upgrades, tree inventory app, Wells Fargo building acquisition, and submission of federal earmark requests ($2.5M for safe routes to school, $2M for youth employment program).

The Stockton Planning Commission met on March 27, 2025, from 5:32 PM to 9:28 PM. Roll call showed all six commissioners present: Chair Jeff Sanguinetti, Vice Chair William Muetzenberg, and Commissioners Gurneel Boparai, Terry Hull, Derek Graves, and Yolanda Amen. Commissioner Graves led the pledge of allegiance. The meeting included two recesses (6:30–6:33 PM and 7:57–8:05 PM). There was no consent calendar, no new business, and no unfinished business. The commission acted on four public hearing items and closed with commissioner comments and reports. Consent Calendar - None. Public Comments & Testimony - Pandora Crowder, a South Stockton resident, opposed additional cannabis retail, saying city council representatives had indicated there would be no more cannabis/smoke-shop storefronts or deliveries due to overpopulation. She said children, families, and health are not for sale and that Stockton has more cannabis, smoke, and alcohol shops than fresh-produce locations. She later spoke against the warehouse project and the cannabis permit, citing high asthma rates in ZIP code 95206. - Patsy Meroz (listed in the agenda; transcribed as 'Marez'), an East Stockton resident at 710 Netherton, spoke against the Main Street/Market Street plan. She said community input had been minimal, the 30-day comment notice reached her late, not all neighbors received notices, and the report undercounted new housing and ignored safety, emergency-response, and evacuation-route concerns. - Mitchell Vinciguerra, a field representative for Carpenters Local 152, said all prior opposition to the South McKinley warehouse had been settled and his organization supported the project. Discussion Items 5.1 Main Street and Market Street Complete Streets Project (25-0163) Staff presented a precise road plan and environmental review for Main and Market Streets from Center Street to the State Route 99 overpass. The agenda described the action as a Negative Declaration; staff's presentation referred to an Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration. The plan would create a complete-streets master plan with a road diet from two lanes to one lane in each direction, buffered bike lanes, curb-return improvements, roundabouts, traffic-calming elements, lighting, and signal enhancements. Staff said the project was driven by an active transportation grant, was identified in the city's bicycle master plan and capital improvement program, and roughly 40–50 percent of project costs could come from two grants. Work began in late 2018 but was delayed by COVID; community outreach meetings were held in April and May 2023. A traffic study used the 2040 general plan and considered cumulative development. A separate NEPA review tied to future federal grant-funded construction was still pending final Caltrans review and would not return to the commission. Public testimony from Patsy Meroz raised the objections listed above. Commissioner Boparai said he did not support the traffic study, questioned the road-diet assumption, criticized aspects of the city's bicycle master plan, and asked that level-of-service and VMT information be presented to city council in a clearer form. Commissioner Graves said everyone deserves safe bike facilities. The commission adopted Resolution 2025-03-27-0501 recommending that city council approve the environmental document and precise road plan. The minutes record a 5-1 vote, with Commissioner Boparai opposed; the raw transcript states 'Motion passes 6-0.' 5.2 Automated Car Wash at 200 North Wilson Way (25-0135 / P24-0150) Staff recommended approval of a general plan amendment (Industrial to Commercial for nine APNs), zoning map amendment (Industrial Limited to Commercial General), administrative use permit, and design review for a new automated car wash. The car wash would be a 4,500-square-foot tunnel building with a 132-foot conveyor on about 1.06 acres, with 30 parking spaces including 27 vacuum/drying stalls, operating 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily and employing about five people per shift. The action also included four additional parcels for future commercial development, with nine parcels rezoned in this action. Ryan Gifford, representing Monty's Car Wash, said Monty wanted to give back to Stockton and had worked through multiple ownerships, a squatter, and demolition of an uninhabitable home. Commissioner Hull asked about the vacant parcels; the applicant said they are currently fenced, and the motion included a condition that vacant parcels remain fenced and secured. Several commissioners expressed support, noting it was a good addition to the Wilson Way corridor and a local family business. The commission adopted Resolutions 2025-03-27-0502-01, -02, and -03, forwarding the general plan and rezone recommendations and approving the use permit and design review, by a 6-0 vote. Staff noted a 10-day appeal period for the administrative use permit/design review, with final effect subject to city council approval of the general plan and zoning amendments. 5.3 Industrial Warehouse at 6505 South McKinley Avenue (P23-0125) Staff presented a proposed 184,166-square-foot industrial warehouse on 9.84 acres at 6505 South McKinley Avenue, currently in unincorporated county territory. The project required annexation, pre-zoning to Industrial Limited (IL), design review, and a Mitigated Negative Declaration. The site would have 151 employee/guest parking spaces and 42 truck-trailer stalls. Staff noted a public-notice error: the notice stated a publication date of February 33, 2025, when the correct date was March 17, 2025, and the MND exhibit was missing page numbers. The applicant's principal was ill; Mary Bean of First Carbon Solutions, the CEQA consultant, answered questions and said opposition letters from three law firms had been rescinded or settled and that the project before the commission was unchanged. Mitchell Vinciguerra of Carpenters Local 152 confirmed the settlement and support. Pandora Crowder opposed the project, citing the high asthma burden in nearby 95206 and asking whether the warehouse was truly needed. Commissioner Boparai raised AB 98, the city's warehouse ordinance, sensitive-receptor buffers, anti-idling rules, and tree-buffer conditions; legal counsel advised not imposing AB 98 conditions on the fly and recommended having staff work with the applicant. Chair Sanguinetti moved to continue the item to the April 10, 2025 meeting, and the motion carried 6-0 (Motion 2025-03-27-0503). 5.4 Cannabis Retail Storefront and Delivery at 4895 State Route 99 Frontage Road, Suite C (25-0041 / P24-0214) Staff recommended approval of a commission use permit for a cannabis retail storefront and an administrative use permit for non-storefront delivery-only retail in an existing 1,600-square-foot vacant suite. The business would operate 6 a.m.–10 p.m. daily and employ about 20 people. Staff confirmed it met the 300-foot residential and 600-foot sensitive-receptor distance requirements. The closest approved retail cannabis locations were over 4.8 miles away. Commissioner Boparai submitted a 32-page public-information compilation, noted the city's 14-storefront cap, eight approved storefronts, and six operating, and said no crime report had been provided; staff and legal responded that crime statistics are not a codified requirement for the findings. Director Stephanie Ocasio said there are nine active cannabis businesses citywide, with some pending approvals. Applicant Alex Callez, representing Stockton Highway 99 LLC, described 24/7 surveillance, licensed security personnel, ID verification, secure product handling, unmarked delivery vehicles, and community contributions. Pandora Crowder repeated her opposition, saying the area is already surrounded by fast-food restaurants and South Stockton bears too much of this burden. Commissioner Amen opposed, saying she did not want cannabis in District 6 and preferred more family-oriented businesses. Commissioner Graves moved to deny, seconded by Commissioner Amen, citing potential danger to health, safety, peace, or general welfare and the lack of a crime report. Chair Sanguinetti and Commissioner Hull expressed personal reluctance but noted the project met the existing code; both voted with the majority to deny. The commission adopted Motion 2025-03-27-0504 directing staff to prepare a resolution denying the use permit, on a 5-1 vote, with Commissioner Muetzenberg voting against the denial. Chair Sanguinetti also clarified that no cannabis moratorium is currently in place, only a smoke-shop moratorium. Staff will bring back written findings for denial at a later meeting. Key Outcomes - Item 5.1: Recommended city council approval of Resolution 2025-03-27-0501, voting 5-1 per the minutes (the raw transcript appears to say 6-0). - Item 5.2: Approved Resolutions 2025-03-27-0502-01, -02, and -03 by a 6-0 vote. - Item 5.3: Continued to April 10, 2025, by a 6-0 vote (Motion 2025-03-27-0503). - Item 5.4: Directed staff to prepare a denial resolution by a 5-1 vote (Motion 2025-03-27-0504), with Commissioner Muetzenberg dissenting. - Staff was directed to continue the Development Code Update ad hoc committee work and to coordinate with the Police Department to provide a citywide top-ten business calls-for-service spreadsheet at the next meeting. - Commissioner Boparai thanked Mayor Fugazi, and the meeting adjourned at 9:28 PM.