Public Meetings - Stockton, California

This special study session, held from 7:01 PM to 8:18 PM, provided an informational overview of the Notice of Available Funding (NOFA) process for Housing and Urban Development (HUD) projects. The council heard presentations from staff, discussed funding sources, the consolidated plan, and addressed concerns about transparency, scoring, and developer capacity. No formal actions were taken. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Discussion Items - Presentation on NOFA Process: Acting Economic Development Director Tina McCarty presented an overview of federal HUD funding, Stockton's designation as an entitlement city, and the annual CDBG and HOME allocations. She explained the eight-year expenditure timeline for HOME funds, the consolidated planning process (2025–2029), and the NOFA scoring system. Councilmembers asked detailed questions about the rating process, conflict of interest issues, and how funding amounts are determined. - Councilmember Concerns and Questions: Councilmembers expressed concerns about the lack of transparency in the NOFA scoring process, including the absence of scorecards for applicants and the inability for council to review detailed scoring sheets. They questioned how the city ensures fairness, how past performance affects scoring, and whether there is an appeal process for denied applicants. Staff acknowledged the need for improvements, such as separating the roles of eligibility checkers and raters, and providing more detailed feedback to applicants. - Consolidated Plan Update: Deputy Director Jordan Peterson presented the community outreach efforts for the 2025–2029 consolidated plan, which included surveys (over 600 responses), seven district meetings, and tabling events. The plan's priorities are affordable housing, reducing homelessness, resilient communities, and strengthening the local economy. A public hearing is scheduled for April 15, 2025. Key Outcomes - This was an informational study session only; no votes or decisions were made. - Staff committed to improving transparency by exploring ways to share scoring sheets with council and the public, subject to legal review. - Staff acknowledged the need to avoid having the same individuals conduct both eligibility checks and scoring in future NOFA cycles. - The council discussed the importance of consistent performance monitoring for funded projects and suggested potential quarterly reporting, though staff noted workload constraints. - The next steps include a March 26, 2025 public hearing at the Community Development Committee and an April 15, 2025 council hearing to approve the consolidated plan.

The Stockton Planning Commission met on March 13, 2025, at 5:30 PM and adjourned at 7:32 PM. The meeting included approval of past meeting minutes, public comments, establishment of an ad hoc committee to review the draft Development Code Ordinance, and two training presentations from the Deputy City Attorney and Community Development Department. All votes were unanimous except where noted. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The commission approved minutes from three prior meetings. The January 23, 2025, minutes were approved 4-0 (Commissioner Graves recused himself because he had not watched or read the meeting). The February 13 and February 27, 2025, minutes were approved 5-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Dan Richardson (1220 N Pershing Avenue, city resident) congratulated new commissioners and urged the commission to conduct thorough reviews of proposed projects rather than "rubber stamping" approvals. He cited a recent cannabis facility that met technical guidelines but was later stopped by the City Council, emphasizing the need for community impact assessments. - Jason Smith (1330 Acre Village Apartments) introduced himself, noting personal hardships following the deaths of his parents in 2020. He did not address a specific agenda item. Discussion Items - Establishment of an Ad Hoc Committee (Item 6.1): The commission considered Resolution 2025-03-13-0601 to form a three-member ad hoc committee to review the pending draft Development Code Ordinance (Title 16). Staff explained the code update began in 2021 and aims to make the code more user-friendly, align with state law, and streamline housing development. The housing element components must be adopted by June 2025 to avoid losing grant funding. Chair Sanguinetti noted the code is about 2.5 inches thick and the committee would require significant time commitment. He stated he would chair the committee initially but might step aside later for newer commissioners. Commissioner Hull and Vice Chair Muetzenberg volunteered. The resolution, naming Chair Sanguinetti, Vice Chair Muetzenberg, and Commissioner Hull, was approved 5-0. - Training Presentations (Informational Items 8.1 and 8.2): - Deputy City Attorney Zoey Merrill presented on the legal framework for planning commissions, including property rights, police powers, quasi-judicial vs. quasi-legislative actions, conflicts of interest, the Brown Act, public comment rules, and the role of findings. She emphasized that commissioners must disclose ex-parte contacts and avoid serial meetings or social media deliberation. She also noted that anonymous public comment is permitted, and the chair has authority to impose reasonable time limits and address disruptive attendees. - Planning Manager Scott Spear and Senior Planner Arturo Carrasco presented on planning policy implementation, covering the general plan, zoning, development code, ministerial vs. discretionary permits, and the application review process. They clarified that ministerial approvals are checklist-based and rarely come before the commission, while discretionary approvals require findings supported by evidence. They noted that decisions are often based on the code and that staff can elevate applications to the commission if needed. Key Outcomes - Ad Hoc Committee Formed: Resolution 2025-03-13-0601 passed 5-0, establishing a three-member committee (Sanguinetti, Muetzenberg, Hull) to review the draft Development Code Ordinance and facilitate future discussions before the full commission. The housing element portion must be finalized by June 2025 to meet grant requirements. - Minutes Approved: Minutes from January 23, February 13, and February 27, 2025, were approved as described in the Consent Calendar. - Training Completed: Both presentations were informational only; no action was taken. Commissioners expressed appreciation for the training and noted increased clarity on legal obligations and procedural rules. - No Public Hearings or Unfinished Business: Items 5 and 7 were skipped as there were no relevant agenda items. - Commissioner Comments: Chair Sanguinetti, Commissioner Amen, and Vice Chair Muetzenberg thanked staff for their work and the training.

The Stockton City Council met on March 4, 2025, in a concurrent session that included closed session (4:00 PM) and regular session (5:42 PM). The meeting covered a wide range of topics, including a closed session litigation settlement, a proclamation for Arbor Week, public comments on homelessness, police conduct, and code enforcement, plus major agenda items such as enhanced city hall security, a smoke shop moratorium, a vacant commercial property registration ordinance, and quarterly financial updates. All votes were 7-0 except the waiver of Brown Act investigation privileges (6-1). Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval (January 7, 9, 21, and February 4, 2025) – Approved 7-0. - Approval of Enhanced Security Measures at City Hall – Established a new Security Services Manager position, added one FTE, authorized $236,479 from General Fund Reserves for equipment and services. Approved 7-0 after public comment. - Refund to Port of Stockton for Industrial Wastewater Overcharge – Authorized $91,953.87 refund. Approved 7-0. - Ordinance Adopting 2024 International Property Maintenance Code – Repealed and replaced chapters, amended related titles. Approved 7-0 after public comment. - Professional Tree Services Contract for Urban Forest Inventory – Awarded $600,000 contract to West Coast Arborist. Approved 7-0 after public comment. - Purchase of Two Fire Engines and Two Tiller Fire Trucks – Appropriated $5,882,017 using cooperative purchasing. Approved 7-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Julie Dunning – Thanked Councilmember Enriquez, promoted Arbor Week and Clean City Initiative tree events (March 8 and March 15). Supported the tree inventory contract. - Pandora Crowder – Expressed safety concerns about Manthey Road (traffic, debris, no sidewalks). - Ari – Criticized council for social media and in-person bullying, calling for consistency in accountability. - Jessica Velez – Opposed homeless displacement, described conditions at Trinity Parkway encampment, urged equitable relocation and services. - Pat Barrett – Criticized displacement of unhoused people, called for a place to relocate them before sweeps. - Roxanne McKay – Accused police of harassing her and failing to properly investigate her daughter Lexus Tafoya's case. - Julie Devincenzi – Suggested the city run its own towing yard to keep fees from impounding vehicles with expired plates. - Mary Elizabeth – Questioned $2 million set aside for climate action plan, noted lack of community engagement since contract award to AECOM. - Mark Stebbins – Quoted Matthew 7:5 regarding censures; urged naming North Stockton Library after the Autai family for racial justice. - Cynthia Gail Boyd – Alleged code enforcement closed cases improperly, cited her own case reopened after proving truth. - Dr. Gwendolyn Dailey – Requested $3.5 million for a three-year youth program pilot through Dome of Hope Organization. - Armando Rodriguez – Advocated for stricter laws on human trafficking and smoke shops, including AB 379. - Sheila Ward Shaw – Discussed need for an independent city auditor, not opposed to department but urged propriety. - Greg Raffetto – Shared homeless experiences, encouraged better behavior among unhoused, requested housing. - Rocio House – Asked for transparency and better behavior on the dais. - Veterans Forever (Easter) – Described plans for a church drop-off for children and veterans housing. - Alyssa Leiva – Defended Economic Development staff, criticized workplace mobbing and hypocrisy on dais decorum. - Bobby Bivens – Stated NAACP does not endorse candidates, defended the organization's history of defending all people. - Armani Eid Nelson – Pleaded for help for her son John, alleging he is being starved by a cartel. - Alberto Gonzalez – Praised improved lighting on the Archway Bridge, called for more positivity in public comments. Discussion Items - Columbus Park Renovations Project – Staff presented plans with community input from 2019. Construction contract of $2,345,000 awarded to Stockbridge General Contracting, plus $106,606 agreement with San Joaquin County Office of Education for Greater Valley Conservation Corps. Fully grant-funded with no match. Approved 7-0. - FY 2024-25 First Quarter Budget Status Update – Budget Officer Imelda Arroyo presented unaudited results. Revenues at 10% of budget, expenditures at 18%. Two budget amendments approved. Approved 7-0. - Quarterly Investment Report (Quarter Ended December 31, 2024) – Representatives from PFM Asset Management and Chandler Asset Management presented. Portfolio balances: $460 million (PFM) and $332 million (Chandler). Interest income $3.7 million for the quarter. Approved 7-0. - Ava Community Energy Program Update – Alex DeGiorgio explained enrollment process, lower rates (5% discount), local control, and opt-out options. Council requested district outreach and translation. No action taken, informational only. - Temporary Moratorium on New Tobacco Retailer Businesses (Smoke Shops) – City Attorney Lori Asuncion recommended urgency ordinance effective immediately for 45 days. Council directed staff to return with stronger enforcement, higher fees, and distance requirements. Approved 7-0. - Waiver of Privilege for Confidential Brown Act Investigations – Council voted 6-1 (Councilmember Villapudua opposed) to waive privileges for investigations conducted in the last four years. Approved. - Vacant Commercial Property and Vacant Lot Registration Ordinance – Presented by Code Enforcement staff. Council expressed concern that proposed fees ($250 annual) were too low. Motion passed to return with refined fees: $250/month for year one, $500/month for year two, $1,000/month for year three, and allow owners to sell or donate. Approved 7-0. - Ordinance Amending Infraction Fines and Establishing Hardship Waiver – Updated fines for building and non-building infractions to comply with state law (max $130/$500 respectively). Hardship waiver process established. Council added direction to strengthen illegal dumping penalties. Approved 7-0. Key Outcomes - Closed Session – Litigation settlement in Rosann San Nicolas v. City of Stockton for $210,000; 6-0 vote (Councilmember Villapudua absent). - All Consent Agenda Items approved 7-0 with separate votes for pulled items. - Columbus Park Renovation – Approved 7-0; construction expected spring 2026. - Budget Status Update – Accepted 7-0; budget amendments for rent and fire truck staffing approved. - Investment Report – Accepted 7-0. - Smoke Shop Moratorium – Urgency ordinance adopted 7-0; staff to return with comprehensive ordinance. - Brown Act Investigation Waiver – Resolution adopted 6-1 (Villapudua dissenting). - Vacant Commercial Property Ordinance – Motion passed 7-0 to bring back revised fee structure; staff to work with lot owners and refine language. - Infraction Fines Ordinance – Adopted 7-0; staff to also bring stronger illegal dumping penalties. City Manager’s Update & Council Comments Interim City Manager Steve Colangelo reported on payroll audit and training, CFO recruitment, library website design, park openings (Louis Park, Misty Holt-Singh Memorial Softball Complex), encampment cleanup, and tax sharing agreement renegotiation. Councilmembers provided district updates, recognized Arbor Week, women in construction, and police achievements. Vice Mayor Lee called for study sessions on fees, procurement, and development agreements. The meeting adjourned at 10:55 PM.

The Stockton Planning Commission held a regular meeting on February 27, 2025, at 5:30 PM. The meeting included one public hearing on a 93-lot residential development (Agave), an informational presentation on the 2024 General Plan and Housing Element Annual Progress Reports, and commissioner comments. The meeting adjourned at 6:48 PM. Public Comments & Testimony - Armando Rodriguez (homeless advocate, address 1273 Little Hell Place, Stockton) spoke about a new program to address prostitution and human trafficking, seeking community support. He invited commissioners to contact him via a business card. Discussion Items - Item 5.1 (Continued): Agave Residential Development – A proposed 93 single-family home development on 13.57 acres at 9473 West Lane. Staff reported that after a prior continuance (February 13, 2025), the applicant met with Woodbridge Irrigation District (WID) and city staff to clarify an easement. A survey confirmed the irrigation pipe is off-site, and four new conditions of approval (Conditions 20–23) were added via a bench memo to protect the WID easement (e.g., restrictions within 20 feet, repairs, recording on map). The project was revised to remove only 10 heritage oaks (down from 38), with a 3:1 mitigation ratio (30 new oaks). The project requires a Planned Development permit and waiver for gross density (6.85 units/acre vs. 6.1 max) and a mitigated negative declaration under CEQA. Applicant Dave Butts of Bright Development stated homes would sell in the $450,000–$550,000 range. Commissioner questions addressed affordability, tree preservation, and the median on Murata Lane (none proposed). - Item 8.1: Informational Presentation on 2024 General Plan and Housing Element Annual Progress Reports – Senior Planner Anson Lahocett presented the annual reports required by state law. Key statistics: Stockton’s Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) for the sixth cycle (2024–2031) is 12,006 units; the city’s total capacity is 22,999 units. In 2024, 837 new housing units were permitted (253 very low-income, 31 low-income, 16 moderate, 537 above moderate). To meet the RHNA goal, the city needs an average of 1,584 units per year; the 2024 total is about half that. The reports will go to city council in March and must be submitted to the state by April 1, 2025. Discussion included potential penalties (none current), incentives for transit-oriented development, the role of land costs, and the city’s pro-housing designation. No action was taken. Key Outcomes - Resolution 2025-02-27-0501-01 (Adopting a Mitigated Negative Declaration for Agave) and Resolution 2025-02-27-0501-02 (Approving Vesting Tentative Map, Planned Development, Waiver, Design Review, and Heritage Tree Removal, subject to conditions as modified in the bench memo) were approved by a vote of 6–0 (Moved by Commissioner Boparai, seconded by Commissioner Hull; all present voted yes). - The informational housing report required no vote but will proceed to city council. Commissioner Comments - Commissioner Hull reported on a Rotary Read-In event with Councilmember Blower promoting literacy. - Vice Chair Muetzenberg thanked staff and fellow commissioners and inquired about the Climate Action Plan (staff will follow up). - Commissioner Boparai raised concerns about the city’s security policy prohibiting religious items (turbans, kirpans) at city hall, requesting an exemption. He also read a prepared statement expressing support for the will of the people regarding a council member resignation call, emphasizing his integrity in service. - Chair Sanguinetti supported Commissioner Boparai and asked staff to investigate the security issue. - The meeting adjourned with a motion passed 6–0.

The City Council met concurrently with the Successor Agency to the Redevelopment Agency, Public Financing Authority, and Parking Authority. The meeting began with a closed session at 4:00 PM for labor negotiations, followed by the regular session at 5:30 PM. The Council recognized Black History Month, heard extensive public comment, and acted on consent items. Major discussions included the City Detect AI enforcement tool, neighborhood services updates, ARPA fund status, and a proposal to waive privilege on Brown Act leak investigations. The meeting adjourned at 11:34 PM. Consent Calendar - Columbus Park Renovations (12.1): Item continued to March 18, 2025, Council meeting by a 7-0 vote after public comment raised concerns about the process and community engagement. - Solar Lighting Purchase (12.2): Approved a cooperative purchasing agreement for solar lights at Weston Ranch Greenbelt and sports courts, $387,527, unanimously 7-0. - Charter Section 406 Investigations Procedure (12.3): Approved Resolution 2025-02-18-1203 establishing a policy for council inquiries, 6-1 (Villapudua opposed). Public Comments & Testimony - Stockton 209 Cares: Nancy Lamb and others reported the program has collected 74 tons of trash since January 1, 2025, and provides job opportunities for homeless individuals achieving sobriety. - Crisis Response: Jamie Guerrero of Kelly's Angels criticized the city's handling of Julian Martinez's death, demanding transparent investigations. - Homeless Encampment: Lecia Harrison described a private lot adjacent to her garden that has become an unmanaged encampment, with water theft and garbage accumulation. - Interim City Manager: Julie Dunning and Andy Abbott questioned the hiring process, lack of transparency, and whether a Brown Act serial meeting occurred. Abbott also raised concerns about former city manager Harry Black's firing and Steve Colangelo's qualifications. - Censure Calls: Armando Rodriguez and others called for censure of Vice Mayor Jason Lee over remarks about NAACP leader Bobby Bivins. - Code Enforcement: Cynthia Gail Boyd detailed alleged case closures without actual resolution; Pat Barrett argued for action over studies. - Safety and Blight: Dan Richardson thanked council for denying a cannabis storefront near his home; numerous speakers highlighted illegal dumping and speeding. - General Concerns: Speakers addressed police misconduct, the need for safe camping, and the lack of youth centers. Discussion Items - 15.1 Civil Service Commission Appointment: Appointed Michelle Sherman to the Stockton Civil Service/Equal Employment Commission (term ending December 31, 2027), vote 7-0. - 15.2 City Detect Project Updates: Staff presented the RISE (Revitalizing and Improving Stockton through Education) program using AI cameras to detect code violations. Since January 2025, 730 educational letters sent with 80% compliance rate. Council directed staff to return March 4, 2025, with a proposal to shorten the enforcement timeline to 60 days. - 15.3 Neighborhood Services Section (NSS) Updates: In 2024, NSS opened nearly 12,000 code enforcement cases (72% complaint-driven), closed 7,011 cases (78% voluntary), and issued 15,000 notices. Council questioned staffing needs relative to the AI investment and discussed blight data by district. - 15.4 Clean City Update: Public works reported 170 tons of trash removed in 2024, 752 volunteers, 28 large-scale encampment cleanups (1,151 tons), and 134 park cleanups. Recycling events and beautification schedule outlined. Council requested vendor performance evaluation. - 15.5 Teen Impact Center Update: The 1940s-era building requires $10-12 million for repairs as a teen center. Economic development sought to include it in the county's CEDS for future grant eligibility. Council expressed desire to see the building used for youth. - 15.6 ARPA Program Update: Of $78 million allocated, $47 million spent by Dec 31, 2024. $31 million remains committed to approved projects. Council requested a study session to review project status and breakdown by district. - 15.7 Closed Session Brown Act Violation Investigations: Council directed the city attorney to bring an item to the March 4, 2025 meeting to consider waiving privilege on any Brown Act leak investigations from the last four years, with appropriate redactions. Key Outcomes - Votes: Consent items 12.2 approved 7-0; 12.3 approved 6-1 (Villapudua opposed). Civil service appointment approved 7-0. - Direction: Staff to return March 4 with expedited code enforcement (60 days). ARPA study session to be scheduled. City attorney to present waiver option for Brown Act investigations. - Park Renovation Continued: Columbus Park item moved to March 18 for presentation. - Investigations: Council discussed the need for audit committee oversight and release of investigation findings to the public.

The Stockton Planning Commission met on February 13, 2025, at 5:30 PM with all six commissioners present: Gurneel Boparai, Terry Hull, Derek Graves, William Muetzenberg, Yolanda Amen, and Jeff Sanguinetti. The agenda included one public hearing, two items pulled from the agenda, annual election of officers, and commissioner reports. The Commission continued the main land-use item to February 27, 2025, and elected a new Chair and Vice Chair. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were presented or adopted. Discussion Items 5.1 Agave Residential Development (continued) - Planning Manager Scott Speer presented the request by Bright Development for a Mitigated Negative Declaration, Vesting Tentative Map, Planned Development, Waiver, Design Review, and Heritage Tree Removal for a 93-lot single-family residential project known as Agave at 9473 West Lane (APN 084-060-10). - The project would subdivide 13.57 acres into 93 single-family lots and five common-area lots. Homes would range from 1,771 to 2,170 square feet in four floor plans. The site would have a gated entry at Ronald McNair Way and secondary emergency access to West Lane, with private streets, sidewalks, landscaping, lighting, and utility improvements. - Planned Development deviations from standard low-density residential requirements include minimum lot area of 3,150 square feet instead of 5,000, minimum lot width of 45 feet instead of 50, and front setbacks of 12 to 15 feet instead of 20. The project would have 2.74 acres of open space, about 24 percent of the site. - The project needs a density waiver because the proposed gross density is 6.85 dwelling units per acre, above the 6.1 gross density limit, while the net density of 7.2 units per acre is below the 8.7 limit. - Staff stated 48 heritage trees exist on the site and 38 would be removed. At the required 3-to-1 replacement ratio, 114 trees are required; the proposed lots would generate 123 front-yard trees, not counting open-space plantings. - The Mitigated Negative Declaration was available for public review from December 17, 2024, through January 6, 2025, with no comments received. The Development Review Committee recommended approval on January 30, 2025. A bench memo included minor corrections and updated condition 19 for stormwater compliance. - Commissioner Boparai expressed support for the project and questioned the city's density limits, saying the affordability crisis means developers should not have to seek density waivers. Staff replied that density standards come from the 2018 General Plan and could be changed only through a General Plan and zoning amendment process. - Commissioner Sanguinetti disclosed that he knew the applicant and Bright Homes and had worked in the area. He stated support for the project but raised concerns about the Woodbridge Irrigation District (WID) Peters Castle pipeline along the southern boundary, which was not mentioned in the environmental document or noticed to WID. He proposed, with WID's general manager, new conditions 20 and 21 requiring an encroachment permit for work within 20 feet of the pipeline and an easement of sufficient width to WID before final map recordation. He also mentioned a street-name cleanup item and stressed that all developers should be treated equally. - Commissioner Amen asked about affordable homeownership opportunities. The applicant said no units have mandated affordable pricing, but smaller lots and home plans are intended to make homes more attainable. - Commissioner Graves asked about student access to McNair High School and future development to the west. The applicant said the project supports access and that their future 63-acre property to the west, currently outside the city, would be brought forward for annexation with a mix of densities. - Dave Butz of Bright Development and Tony DeMelo of North Star Engineering said the WID pipeline issue was new to them; DeMelo said survey data showed a structure roughly 30 feet south of the project site, so it had not been considered an impact. The applicant was willing to work with WID but requested time to review the proposed conditions. - No members of the public testified on the item. Items 5.2 and 5.3 Pulled - Item 25-0152, a proposed industrial development at 6505 South McKinley Avenue, and item 25-0151, a drive-through quick-serve restaurant at 9324 Thornton Road, were pulled from the agenda for further review. Election of Planning Commission Officers - Assistant Director Mike McDowell reviewed the procedural rules requiring annual election of a Chair and Vice Chair in February. He noted the Chair cannot serve consecutive terms and recommended an experienced commissioner for the Chair role. - On a motion by Commissioner Boparai, seconded by Commissioner Graves, the Commission elected Commissioner Jeff Sanguinetti as Chair by a 6-0 vote. - On a motion by Commissioner Boparai, seconded by Commissioner Graves, the Commission elected Commissioner William Muetzenberg as Vice Chair by a 6-0 vote. Staff Reports and Commissioner Comments - Staff noted support for new commissioners, possible Brown Act training, and that the upcoming Planning Commission Academy on March 3 is already full; other training options are being explored. - Commissioner Hull welcomed the new commissioners and thanked staff. - Commissioner Muetzenberg said he wants to build a resilient, sustainable Stockton and learn from fast-growing cities. - Commissioner Amen thanked Vice Mayor Lee and staff for their guidance and said she is honored to serve. - Commissioner Graves said he is passionate about Stockton and wants to make it a better place. - Commissioner Boparai welcomed the new commissioners, mentioned the Planning Commission Academy, and raised concerns from Sikh residents about the new security policy affecting turban pins and the kirpan. He asked for a simple exception so community members can participate comfortably. - Commissioner Sanguinetti thanked the Commission and staff, emphasized teamwork, and said he wants to improve the entitlement and approval process while being mindful of public safety. Key Outcomes - The Commission adopted Motion 2025-02-13-0501 to continue item 5.1, the Agave project, to the February 27, 2025, Planning Commission meeting. The motion carried 6-0. - The Commission elected Jeff Sanguinetti as Chair and William Muetzenberg as Vice Chair, each by a 6-0 vote. - Items 5.2 and 5.3 remained pulled from the agenda for further review. - The meeting adjourned at 6:47 PM.

The Stockton City Council met concurrently with the Successor Agency, Public Financing Authority, and Parking Authority on February 4, 2025. The closed session began at 4:00 PM and the regular session at 5:31 PM, with adjournment at 10:43 PM. The council approved an interim city manager, named a new library and parks, authorized infrastructure and technology spending, received community well-being and youth programming updates, established two ad hoc committees, and set a censure process in motion. Closed Session - The council recessed into closed session at 4:01 PM and returned at 4:45 PM. City Attorney Lori Asuncion reported that the council voted 6-0, with Councilmember Villapudua absent, to settle J.P. et al. v. City of Stockton for $460,000. No other reportable items were announced. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent calendar 7-0 after pulling items 12.1, 12.6, 12.9, 12.10, 12.13, and 12.15 for separate discussion. - Routine consent approvals included meeting minutes, the revised 2025 meeting calendar, mayoral committee assignments, a Measure W Oversight Committee appointment, the D Street right-of-way vacation, participation in the CENCAL Fire EMS Authority with a $1,515,700 reserve transfer, ratification of $835,534.88 for temporary sewer pump expenses, a $195,000 amendment with Hill’s Pet Nutrition, a $500,000 Safe Routes to School grant, and a $200,673 engineering amendment for the Lincoln Road Sewer Trunk Rehabilitation. Public Comments & Testimony - Dan Richardson requested a funding and status update on Pershing Avenue complete streets, a road diet, and traffic/speeding enforcement, saying police had clocked vehicles at over 80 mph in front of Victory Park. - Pandora Crowder, Isabel Perez, Erica Burton, and Khadija Fox supported the REACH program and urged the city to help preserve its services after federal funding uncertainty. Fox cited San Joaquin County’s 2023 infant mortality rate of 12.4 deaths per 1,000 live births, the highest in the state, and described REACH’s lactation and doula partnerships. - Armando Rodriguez, Henry Ortiz, Alicia Rico, and Matthew Lester urged the council to consider sanctuary city status and protect immigrant and farmworker communities. Rico asked the council to help revoke H.R. 29 and said families were afraid to send children to school or go to work. - Bobby Bivens, president of the Stockton NAACP, criticized the two-minute public comment limit and said limiting speech may be legal but was not right. - Manuel Martinez, father of Julian Martinez, described being handcuffed and prevented from reaching his son after the shooting and said he still had not been allowed to see his son’s body. - Vernon Coleman proposed a tool lending library / library of things and said a $100,000 California State Library grant might be available. - Francine Rueda supported Public Health Advocates, noting University of the Pacific’s College Corps program had placed 20 fellows with the organization in three years. - Cynthia Boyd announced an HBCU event at Kingston Elementary and criticized the interim city manager appointment process. - Jane Chamberlain supported downtown investment and housing, citing smaller California cities with thriving downtowns. - Brendon Wiggins asked for the city process for installing EV charging stations on government property. Appointment of Interim City Manager (Item 12.1) - The council split 4-3 on Resolution 2025-02-04-1201, appointing Steve Colangelo as Interim City Manager and authorizing the mayor to execute his employment contract. Voting yes were Mayor Fugazi, Councilmember Padilla, Councilmember Ponce, and Vice Mayor Lee. Voting no were Councilmember Blower, Councilmember Villapudua, and Councilmember Enriquez. - Councilmember Blower moved to send the appointment back to closed session for more vetting, citing the lack of a resume and concerns about city government experience. Councilmember Ponce then moved to approve Colangelo. A motion to call the question passed 4-3. - Public comment was divided. Supporters described Colangelo as a Stockton businessman, community supporter, and straight shooter; opponents argued he lacked municipal management experience and that acting City Manager Will Crew had been passed over. - The city attorney read the required oral compensation summary before the vote. The council recessed at 7:15 PM and reconvened at 7:27 PM. Library and Park Naming (Item 12.6) - Approved Resolution 2025-02-04-1206 7-0, naming the Northeast Library and Community Center as Ursula Meyer Library and Community Center; the Westlake/Scott Creek park as Inspiration Park in memory of Officer Jimmy Inn and Fire Captain Max Fortuna; the Valens/Orbison park as Hadley Park in memory of Carol Naomi Trujillo Hadley; and the Parliament/Skynyrd park as Harmony Park. - Public speakers spoke in support of the names. The Stockton Firefighters Union president thanked the council for honoring Captain Fortuna and Officer Inn. IT Cooperative Agreements and University of the Pacific Lease (Items 12.9 and 12.10) - Approved Motion 2025-02-04-1209 7-0 to use a vendor pool of cooperative agreements for IT solutions and services, with a total estimated contract value of $25,030,000, after discussion about the RFP process and purchase approvals. - Approved Motion 2025-02-04-1210 6-0 to lease radio communications space to University of the Pacific for a 20-year term plus a five-year renewal option, with a total contract cap of $1,093,777.93. Councilmember Enriquez recused himself due to his employment with UOP. Light Up Stockton (Item 12.13) - Approved Resolution 2025-02-04-1213 7-0 transferring $2,000,000 from FY 2023-24 Year End Discretionary Funds to the Light Up Stockton project. Staff said the funding would repair known outages and wire-theft damage, with an estimated 60-day repair timeline after contract award, and the mayor directed the work to begin in District 6. Airport Way Bridge over Mormon Slough Fire Repair (Item 12.15) - Approved Resolution 2025-02-04-1215 7-0, appropriating $20,000 and transferring $300,000 and $483,000 from other bridge projects, and awarding a $908,369 construction contract to Valentine Corporation. Discussion included using grouted riprap to deter repeated fires under the bridge and a future April presentation on the approach. Community Well-Being Project Updates (Item 15.1) - Informational item; no action taken. - The Mobile Community Response Team has completed 11,713 calls since May 2023. In September-November 2024, it received 613 new calls and 1,353 follow-up calls; 68% were wellness/welfare checks, 17% were emotional disturbances, 9% were mild-to-moderate issues, and 3% involved suicidal/homicidal ideation. - CMC’s respite center has 13 beds, a 14-day transitional stay, and provides monitored detox, MAT, case management, and aftercare. From September to November 2024 it received 102 referrals; 38% were admitted. Discharge placements included 18% to sober living, 18% to long-term care, 45% to a private home, and 19% declining placement. - The city has received about $2.7 million of an estimated potential $10.7 million in opioid settlement funds. Care Solace, the new behavioral health coordination hub, reported 845 residents contacted it in its first 10 weeks, with about 54% using public insurance and 16% uninsured. Youth Programming for Summer 2025 (Item 15.3) - Informational item; no action taken. - The first California For All grant round provided $4.3 million and served 440 youth, including 188 through the city’s internal summer program. The second round is $1.7 million and is projected to serve about 275 youth across city and partner programs. - The city’s 2025 summer youth employment applications open February 24 and close March 7, with an informational session February 20. Community Services reported summer reading participation grew from 1,700 participants reading 38,000 books in 2023 to 6,600 participants reading over 60,000 books in 2024. - Council members asked staff to explore expanding jobs, nonprofit partnerships, business incentives, and using Measure M funds to reduce or eliminate program fees. The department requested marketing capacity, more scholarships, and a compensation study. Groundwater Sustainability Plan Amendment (Item 15.2) - This item was pulled and deferred. A February 4 memo from the Municipal Utilities Director said it would be brought back at a later date as a public hearing after the required noticing period. Censure Complaint (Item 15.4) - The council considered a complaint filed January 21 by Councilmember Padilla and Vice Mayor Lee alleging Councilmember Villapudua violated Council Policies 3.13 and 4.07. The City Clerk explained the censure procedure and said the four non-involved members could stop the process by unanimous vote. - No councilmember moved to stop the proceeding, so it moved forward. During discussion, the mayor characterized the allegation as involving a middle-finger gesture. Public comment included opposition to the censure based on First Amendment grounds, a statement that no policy violation existed, and commentary about political consultant conduct. - Mayor Fugazi appointed an Ad Hoc Committee consisting of herself, Councilmember Ponce, and Councilmember Enriquez to review the complaint and report back. City Manager Selection Ad Hoc (Item 15.5) - Approved Resolution 2025-02-04-1505; the minutes record the vote as 7-0, while the live transcript appears to state 6-1 with Councilmember Villapudua voting no. The resolution created a City Manager Selection Ad Hoc Committee of Mayor Fugazi, Councilmember Enriquez, and Vice Mayor Lee to select a recruiter and recommend candidates to the full council. - One public commenter, Ralph White, argued that the full council should handle the hiring rather than an ad hoc committee. Civil Service/Equal Employment Commission Appointments (Item 15.6) - Approved Resolution 2025-02-04-1506 7-0, appointing Ada Pizzano and Raymond Zululeta to the Stockton Civil Service/Equal Employment Commission for terms ending December 31, 2027, after ranked-choice ballots and a tie-breaking round. Key Outcomes - Closed session lawsuit settlement approved in the amount of $460,000 by a 6-0 vote. - Steve Colangelo appointed Interim City Manager by a 4-3 vote. - Library and park naming resolution, IT vendor pool, UOP lease, $2 million Light Up Stockton appropriation, Airport Way Bridge repair, and other consent items approved. - Ad Hoc Committee established for the censure review, and Ad Hoc Committee established for City Manager selection. - Ada Pizzano and Raymond Zululeta appointed to the Civil Service/Equal Employment Commission. - Groundwater Sustainability Plan amendment deferred; community well-being and youth programming items were informational only. Council Comments and Adjournment - Councilmembers commented on the killing of 17-year-old Julian Martinez, Black History Month, REACH support, downtown development, the North Stockton police substation, traffic enforcement, a March Brown Act study session, and upcoming community events. Councilmember Padilla also announced the Ad Hoc Homelessness Committee meeting for February 6 at 4:00 PM. - The meeting adjourned at 10:43 PM.

The Stockton Planning Commission met on Thursday, January 23, 2025, at 425 N. El Dorado St., Stockton, CA. The meeting was called to order at 5:30 PM and adjourned at 5:58 PM. All six commissioners were present: Chair Terry Hull, Vice Chair Gurneel Boparai, Anne Mallett, Brenda Jones, Waqar Rizvi, and Greg Thompson. The agenda included a consent calendar, one new business item (ratifying the removal of a Cultural Heritage Board member), and farewell remarks for four outgoing commissioners. No public comments were received. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (3.1): The commission unanimously approved the minutes of the December 12, 2024, Planning Commission meeting (Motion 2025-01-23-0301). - Time Extension for Tentative Map (3.2): A one-year time extension was granted for an approved tentative map and planned development permit (P21-1171) at 8601 Thornton Road (APNs 080-320-06 and 080-320-07). The commission adopted Resolution 2025-01-23-0302, finding the project subject to compliance with the prior adopted Final Initial Study/Addendum to the 2040 General Plan EIR. The consent calendar was adopted 6-0 (motion by Commissioner Rizvi, second by Commissioner Mallett). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were submitted; no blue cards were distributed. Discussion Items - Cultural Heritage Board Membership – Vacate Seat (6.1): Mike McDowell, Assistant Director of Community Development, explained that under the updated attendance policy (Council Policy Manual revised July 9, 2024), three board members had absences exceeding 25% over the previous 12 months. The Cultural Heritage Board recommended vacating only the seat of Julian Johnson, who had missed all meetings in the prior 12 months, citing consistent non‑attendance. The other two members had extenuating circumstances and improved attendance. The commission unanimously ratified the removal of Commissioner Johnson through Resolution 2025-01-23-0601 (motion by Commissioner Thompson, second by Commissioner Jones; vote 6‑0). Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar Approved (6-0). - Removal of Julian Johnson from Cultural Heritage Board Ratified (6-0). - Farewell to Outgoing Commissioners: Certificates of appreciation were presented to four commissioners whose terms ended: Greg Thompson (2 years), Brenda Jones (4 years), Waqar Rizvi (8 years), and Anne Mallett (8 years). Each outgoing commissioner expressed gratitude to staff, colleagues, and family. The remaining commissioners (Chair Hull, Vice Chair Boparai) offered thanks and noted the contributions of the departing members. - No unfinished business was considered. - Next meeting: A new commission is expected to begin in February 2025.

The Stockton City Council met in concurrent session with the Successor Agency to the Redevelopment Agency, Public Financing Authority, and Parking Authority on January 21, 2025, beginning with a closed session at 3:31 PM and the regular session at 5:35 PM, adjourning at 11:14 PM. The meeting included public comments, consent agenda approvals, discussions on the ASM Global management contract, Measure A, police substations, and a public hearing on a cannabis retail appeal. Key decisions included approval of the Edward Byrne Memorial JAG grant and denial of a cannabis retail storefront appeal. Consent Calendar - Motion 2025-01-21-1201 (7-0): Approved a cooperative agreement with Grainger for MRO supplies, not to exceed $2,500,000. - Motion 2025-01-21-1202 (7-0): Accepted the Public Facilities Fee Program Annual Report for FY 2023-24. - Item 12.3 (7-0): Continued the appointment to the Civil Service Commission to a later date for additional applicants. - Resolution 2025-01-21-1204 (7-0): Reestablished the Ad-Hoc Homelessness Committee. - Resolution 2025-01-21-1205 (7-0): Reestablished the Charter Review Advisory Commission and Council Charter Review Ad-Hoc Committee. - Resolution 2025-01-21-1206 (7-0): Ratified appointments to the Planning Commission. - Resolution 2025-01-21-1207 (7-0): Ratified appointments to various city committees and commissions. - Resolution 2025-01-21-1208 (7-0): Ratified appointments to the Community Development Committee. - Motion 2025-01-21-1209 (7-0): Authorized a partial refund of $48,895.21 to AT&T California for encroachment permit fees. - Motion 2025-01-21-1210 (7-0): Authorized a refund of $22,686.76 to Pamela Lee Matlock for building permit fees. - Resolution 2025-01-21-1211 (7-0): Authorized summary vacation of a portion of a street easement along South Airport Way. - Resolution 2025-01-21-1212 (7-0): Established a new classification of Animal Services Manager for SPD with salary range. - Motion 2025-01-21-1213 (7-0): Approved a three-year hangar rental agreement with Delta Aviation Services, not to exceed $127,461. - Motion 2025-01-21-1214 (7-0): Approved purchase of three centrifugal pumps for $206,596.38. - Motion 2025-01-21-1215 (7-0): Authorized PG&E extension agreement for Victory Park Pool electrical upgrades, $131,035.91. Public Comments & Testimony - Nineteen individuals spoke during the general public comment period on matters not on the agenda, covering topics including homelessness, councilmember behavior, food truck violations, bus route issues, immigration enforcement concerns, code enforcement, and animal services. - On the ASM Global discussion, six public speakers (Alyssa Leiva, Patricia Barrett, Pandora Crowder, Yolanda Amen, RC Thompson, and others) commented, with some expressing concerns about transparency, financial performance, and the need for affordable family-friendly events. - On Measure A, seven speakers (Julie Dunning, Pat Barrett, Pandora Crowder, Dan Richardson, RC Thompson, Alyssa Leiva, Michelle Sherman) commented, with Dunning raising questions about fund tracking and alleged “shell games” in budgeting. - On the cannabis retail appeal, seven speakers (Dan Richardson, Pandora Crowder, Katya Evanhoe, Julie Devincenzi, Julie Dunning, Pat Barrett, Yolanda Amen) spoke in favor of the appeal, citing proximity to existing businesses, schools, and parks, and opposition to over-concentration. Discussion Items - 15.2 Discussion: ASM Global Management Contract – Vice Mayor Lee led extensive questioning about the timing of the contract extension approved by the previous council 18 months before expiration and 22 days before the new council took office. Staff (Carrie Wright, Economic Development Director) defended the recommendation based on ASM's performance, the risk of higher costs, and the loss of $500,000 in capital improvements if not exercised. Councilmembers expressed concerns about transparency, threats alleged against the vendor, and missing key performance indicators. No action was taken; it was discussion only. - 15.3 Measure A Overview and Discussion – Finance staff provided a presentation on the 10-year history of Measure A, a 0.75% general sales tax approved in 2013 to fund law enforcement and bankruptcy recovery. Key statistics: Approximately $375 million raised; 62% allocated to law enforcement and crime prevention (vs. advisory Measure B's 65% recommendation); current sworn officer count at 377 of 425 authorized; retention and recruitment incentives included. Deputy Chief Tony Sager detailed recruitment efforts (474 applicants in calendar year 2024, 2,042 applications in first two quarters of FY 24-25, resulting in 239 entering background). The discussion also covered the formation of the Measure A Expenditure Guidelines approved in July 2024. No action was taken; it was informational. - 15.4 Discussion: Police Substations for Weston Ranch and Southeast Stockton – Vice Mayor Lee proposed exploring substations to improve community policing and response. Deputy Chief Sager outlined historical substation experience (closed during bankruptcy) and noted that Housing Authority is willing to provide space. Councilmember Enríquez highlighted community desire for police visibility. No action was taken; Vice Mayor Lee later requested an agenda item for a presentation within 60 days with the goal of operation by July 31, 2025. Public Hearings - 16.1 Edward Byrne Memorial JAG Grant – Approved Resolution 2025-01-21-1601 (7-0) to accept $331,163 in federal grant funds for joint law enforcement operations and the Integrated Ballistic Identification System (IBIS) system. The city reallocates a portion to San Joaquin County for partnership efforts, citing greater effectiveness. - 16.2 Cannabis Retail Storefront Appeal – The council voted 7-0 to approve the appeal, reversing the Planning Commission's approval of a Conditional Use Permit for a cannabis retail storefront at 1748 West Fremont Street. The action effectively denies the project. Councilmembers cited over-concentration, proximity to a school and another cannabis business, and community opposition. The applicant requested the ability to relocate the license, but the council did not address that. Key Outcomes - Approved motions and resolutions as listed under consent calendar, all 7-0. - Appointment to Parks and Recreation Commission (7-0): Gina Calder appointed. - Approved the Edward Byrne Memorial JAG grant (7-0). - Denied the cannabis retail storefront by approving the appeal (7-0). - Directives: Vice Mayor Lee requested that city staff present plans for downtown development and the Civic Auditorium lot at the next meeting (seconded by Councilmember Enríquez). He also requested an agenda item for a presentation on police substations within 60 days, with a target operational date of July 31, 2025. Additionally, he asked for a staff presentation at the next meeting on a summer youth plan. Councilmember Padilla raised a request to develop a refund policy for permits, and it was agreed to bring it to council. Council comments included plans for future committee meetings on homelessness, ad-hoc committees on liquor stores, smoke shops, and cannabis, and a review of the city charter's investigation powers through the Ledge Committee.