Public Meetings - Visalia, California

The Visalia City Council convened on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the City Council Chambers at 707 W. Acequia, Visalia, CA. The meeting followed a work session at 4:00 PM and a closed session at 6:00 PM. The agenda included a parks and recreation master plan presentation, a 17-item consent calendar, and five regular items/public hearings. No minutes or transcript were provided, so this summary reflects the agenda only and does not record actual discussion, public comment, or council decisions. Work Session - Parks and Recreation Master Plan presentation (Item 26-0125): The Council received a presentation on the Visalia Parks and Recreation Master Plan and Needs Assessment. Consent Calendar The consent calendar comprised routine items considered for approval in one motion, including: - Authorization to read ordinances by title only (Item 26-0008). - Recording of the final map for Willow Springs Unit 3 subdivision, located at the southeast corner of Santa Fe Street and Walnut Avenue, and annexation into Landscape and Lighting Assessment District No. 18-05 (Resolutions 2026-23 and 2026-24) (Item 25-0782). - Recording of the final map for Elliott Subdivision Phase 2A, located at the southeast corner of Tulare Avenue and Shirk Road, amendment to Landscape and Lighting District No. 25-07, and annexation into the district (Resolutions 2026-56, 2026-57, and 2026-59) (Item 26-0114). - Recording of the final parcel map for Tentative Parcel Map No. 2025-15, located on the north side of Riggin Avenue between Shirk Street and Roeben Street (Item 26-0157). - Authorization for the Mayor to sign a joint letter of support for comprehensive tort reform to protect California taxpayers, survivors, and essential public services (Item 26-0107). - Authorization for the City Manager to execute the amended memorandum of understanding for the PRISMHealth Program (Item 26-0117). - Designation of Vice Mayor Liz Wynn as voting delegate, Assistant City Manager John Lollis as first alternate, and City Manager Leslie Caviglia as second alternate for the League of California Cities 2026 Annual Conference, plus direction on a supporting resolution (Item 26-0122). - Authorization for the City Manager to sign Greater Kaweah Groundwater Sustainability Agency 2026-2027 Land Fallowing Program contracts for a combined 138.91 field acres in the total amount of $55,564 to be paid to the City of Visalia (Item 26-0123). - Award of an annual landscape maintenance contract for Landscape and Lighting Districts, Quadrant F, to Visalia Landscape and Tree Company in an annual amount not to exceed $91,577.88 (Item 26-0126). - Approval of the purchase of a replacement John Deere 624 P-tier wheel loader for the Water Reclamation Facility from Pape Machinery in the amount of $271,615.28 (Item 26-0127). - Approval of the purchase of one John Deere 5130ML Cab Low-Profile Utility Tractor with hydraulic disc and flail mower attachments from Lawrence Tractor Co. in the amount of $163,688.94, plus a transfer of funds within the Wastewater Fund (Item 26-0138). - Adoption of Resolution 2026-63 designating a portion of City owned property at the southeast corner of Caldwell Avenue and Ben Maddox Way into the public right-of-way system (Item 26-0128). - Authorization for the City Manager to execute an appraisal services contract with Real Property Analysts for up to five annual terms with an annual not-to-exceed limit of $40,000 (Item 26-0141). - Authorization to enter into an agreement with Community Services Employment and Training for the California Violence Intervention and Prevention Grant (Item 26-0142). - Appointment of Matt Seals to the Building Advisory Committee for a 2-year term (Item 26-0146). - Authorization to apply for the Federal Transit Administration Low or No Emission Grant Program (Resolution 2026-64) and the Grants for Buses and Bus Facilities Program (Resolution 2026-65) for the purchase of twelve clean diesel cutaways, ten diesel hybrid buses, and rehabilitation of eight diesel hybrid buses, for an estimated total amount of $16,120,000, pending further analysis of responsibilities and impacts (Item 26-0147). - Approval of a draft letter of support for the selection of the Hanford (Kings County) site for the Central Valley High-Speed Rail Heavy Maintenance Facility (Item 26-0155). Public Comments & Testimony The agenda provided for public comment periods at the start of the meeting, before consent calendar consideration, and before regular items. No comments were recorded in the available materials. Regular Items and Public Hearings - Proposed elimination of Transit Fixed Route 17 (Item 26-0115): Public hearing to receive comment and make a determination on eliminating the route serving the Visalia Industrial Park. - 2025 Public Hearing and CAPER Approval (Item 26-0097): Public hearing and approval of the Program Year 2025/26 Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) and Resolution No. 2026-58. - Prohousing Public Hearing (Item 26-0129): First public hearing to review and comment on the proposed submission of an application to the State's Prohousing Designation Program to designate Visalia as a prohousing city, enabling access to additional state funding for housing and infrastructure projects. - Urgency Ordinance (Item 26-0136): Consideration of Ordinance 2026-10, an interim urgency ordinance imposing a temporary moratorium on acceptance, processing, approval, or issuance of permits and entitlements for new data center development, requiring 4/5 approval of the City Council under California Government Code Section 65858. - Public Hearing on the 5-Year PLHA Plan (Item 26-0096): Public hearing to provide input on priorities and activity allocations for the City's next 5-year (FY 2025/26 - FY 2029/30) Plan for use of California Department of Housing and Community Development Permanent Local Housing Allocation Program (PLHA) funds. Key Outcomes No outcomes, votes, or directions are available because no minutes or transcript were provided. This summary is based solely on the posted agenda. Upcoming City Council Meetings - Monday, September 21, 2026, at 7:00 PM - Monday, October 5, 2026, at 7:00 PM Both meetings are scheduled at 707 W. Acequia, Visalia, CA.

The Visalia City Council met on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, beginning with a work session at 4:00 PM and the regular session at 7:00 PM in the City Council Chambers. The meeting was preceded by a closed session at 6:00 PM. The agenda included a presentation on the Parks and Recreation Master Plan, a public hearing on the elimination of Transit Fixed Route 17, and several other regular and consent items. Please note that official minutes and a transcript were not available, so this summary is based solely on the published agenda and may not reflect actual proceedings or outcomes. Work Session - The Council received a presentation on the Visalia Parks and Recreation Master Plan and Needs Assessment (Item 26-0125). Consent Calendar The Consent Calendar included the following routine items scheduled for approval in one motion: - Authorization to read ordinances by title only (26-0008). - Record final map for Willow Springs Unit 3 subdivision and annexation into Landscape and Lighting Assessment District No. 18-05 (25-0782; Resolutions 2026-23, 2026-24). - Record final map for Elliott Subdivision Phase 2A and amendment to Landscape and Lighting District No. 25-07 (26-0114; Resolutions 2026-56, 2026-57, 2026-59). - Record final parcel map for Tentative Parcel Map No. 2025-15 on Riggin Avenue (26-0157). - Authorize the Mayor to sign a joint letter of support for comprehensive tort reform (26-0107). - Authorize the City Manager to execute an amended MOU for the PRISMHealth Program (26-0117). - Designate Vice Mayor Liz Wynn as voting delegate for the League of California Cities Annual Conference and provide direction on a resolution (26-0122). - Authorize agreements for the 2026-2027 Land Fallowing Program – 138.91 field acres for a total of $55,564 (26-0123). - Award landscape maintenance contract for Landscape and Lighting Districts, Quadrant F, to Visalia Landscape and Tree Company for $91,577.88 annually (26-0126). - Approve purchase of a John Deere 624 P-tier wheel loader for $271,615.28 (26-0127). - Approve purchase of a John Deere 5130ML tractor with attachments for $163,688.94 (26-0138). - Designate a portion of city-owned property at Caldwell Avenue and Ben Maddox Way into the public right-of-way (Resolution 2026-63; 26-0128). - Authorize an appraisal services contract with Real Property Analysts for up to five years, not to exceed $40,000 annually (26-0141). - Authorize an agreement with Community Services Employment and Training for the California Violence Intervention and Prevention Grant (26-0142). - Appoint Matt Seals to the Building Advisory Committee for a 2-year term (26-0146). - Authorize applications for FTA Low or No Emission and Bus Facilities grants for purchase of 12 clean diesel cutaways, 10 diesel hybrid buses, and rehabilitation of 8 diesel hybrid buses, estimated total $16,120,000 (26-0147; Resolutions 2026-64, 2026-65). - Approve a letter of support for the Hanford (Kings County) site for the High-Speed Rail Heavy Maintenance Facility (26-0155). Public Comments - The agenda provided for general public comment at the start of the regular session (before 7:00 PM) and before the Consent Calendar and each regular item. No public comments were recorded in the available materials. Discussion Items - Public Hearing on Elimination of Transit Fixed Route 17 (26-0115): The Council was to conduct a public hearing and make a determination on the proposed elimination of Route 17 serving the Visalia Industrial Park. - Public Hearing and CAPER Approval (26-0097): The Council was to hold a public hearing and approve the Program Year 2025/26 Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) via Resolution 2026-58. - Prohousing Public Hearing (26-0129): The first public hearing to review and comment on a proposed application to the State’s Prohousing Designation Program, which would enable access to additional state funding for housing and infrastructure. - Urgency Ordinance on Data Center Development (26-0136): Consideration of Ordinance 2026-10 imposing a temporary moratorium on permits and entitlements for new data center development, requiring a 4/5 vote for passage. - Public Hearing on 5-Year PLHA Plan (26-0096): A public hearing to identify priorities and activity allocations for the use of Permanent Local Housing Allocation Program funds for FY 2025/26–FY 2029/30. Key Outcomes - No outcomes are available as the official minutes and transcript were not provided. The agenda indicates that votes and decisions were scheduled, but their results cannot be confirmed from the given materials. Closed Session Report and Adjournment The meeting was scheduled to adjourn to closed session at 6:00 PM and later report out. The regular session was expected to adjourn after completing all items. The next regular meetings were set for September 21, 2026, and October 5, 2026.

The Visalia City Council met on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, starting with a 4:00 PM work session followed by a 7:00 PM regular session. The meeting included a special recognition, a presentation on the Parks and Recreation Master Plan, a public hearing on eliminating Transit Fixed Route 17, approval of the CAPER, a public hearing on the Prohousing Designation application, adoption of an urgency ordinance temporarily banning new data center development, and a public hearing on the 5-Year PLHA Plan. All votes were 4-0 with Councilmember Steve Nelsen absent. Special Presentation / Recognition - Tracy, Neighborhood Preservation Manager, was recognized for her 20+ years of service. Several speakers, including her children and a representative from the California Association of Code Enforcement Officers, praised her leadership, innovation, and dedication. Tracy thanked the council and community for their support. Council members expressed gratitude and noted her high standards. Public Comments & Testimony - Jim Reeves (Visalia) commented on the police department's automated license plate reader (ALPR) policy, noting that the policy requires review and approval before data sharing, but a public records request showed 309 agencies accessed data 507,696 times in May 2026, suggesting the policy should be updated to reflect actual practice. - Irene Lappin (Visalia) spoke about crime, referencing Proposition 47 and a large brawl at an MMA event on August 22, 2026, at the Visalia Convention Center. She criticized the convention center manager and recommended terminating her and ending fight events there. - Maria Gillian (Visalia) expressed concerns about eliminating Route 17, asking about alternative transit, microtransit plans, and whether the route served only Amazon workers. She also questioned how funds would be redirected. - Eric Elliott (Visalia) asked for more information on microtransit alternatives and the city's plans for on-demand services. - Irene Lappin (second appearance) commented on the Prohousing application, stating the 450-page document was illegible when enlarged on the city website and requested a readable format. - Charity Payanis (Visalia) spoke against data centers, urging a complete ban rather than a temporary moratorium. - Jordan Higueretta (Portaville, UCLA student) supported the data center moratorium, citing concerns about utility costs, water use, and the influence of utility companies. He asked council to extend the moratorium and call for a permanent ban. - Paul Arista (Visalia, Central Valley DSA) supported the moratorium, noting data centers consume 100 million gallons of water per year and produce noise up to 90 decibels, threatening agriculture and quality of life. - Joan Quadra (Visalia) opposed data centers, citing noise and inability to sell homes near such facilities on the East Coast. - Rita Henry (Visalia) supported a total ban on data centers, emphasizing water, environment, and future generations. - Stephanie Thiesen (Visalia, 35-year resident) supported the moratorium and urged a permanent ban, noting her work in farming and dairy. - Ashley (Visalia) thanked Councilmember Poochigian for bringing the moratorium forward and supported a permanent ban. - Tobias (Visalia, online) thanked the council for addressing AI data centers, cited Alphabet's $5.6 billion loss from AI infrastructure, and opposed data centers due to water, utility costs, and heat waves. - Joe Delgado (online, Visalia) commended the council for the moratorium and urged a permanent ban, noting the county is also considering a moratorium. Consent Calendar - Approved by a single motion (4-0). Items included: authorization to read ordinances by title; record final maps for Willow Springs Unit 3, Elliott Subdivision Phase 2A, and Tentative Parcel Map 2025-15; joint letter supporting tort reform; PRISMHealth MOU amendment; delegate designation for Cal Cities conference; land fallowing program contracts; landscape maintenance contract award; purchase of a wheel loader and tractor; designation of property into public right-of-way; appraisal services contract; Community Services Employment and Training agreement; Building Advisory Committee appointment; grant applications for transit buses; letter of support for Hanford High-Speed Rail maintenance facility. Discussion Items 1. Parks and Recreation Master Plan Presentation - Mike Setz from PROS Consulting presented key findings from the 2026 Visalia Parks and Recreation Master Plan and Needs Assessment. Highlights include: - Park assessments: overall good condition, but opportunities to reinvest in courts, playgrounds, paths, and shade. Harold's Grove and Seven Oaks need focused attention. - Community engagement: over 120,000 touchpoints, 420 statistically valid surveys (margin of error ±5%, 95% confidence), 182 participants in public meetings/focus groups, 672 website contributions. - 93% of residents use parks annually (national average 81%), 60% visit at least once a week. - Top barrier to use: lack of restrooms (also top maintenance concern). - Top benefits residents see: improves physical and mental health, reduces crime. - Satisfaction with parks is 42% (national benchmark 63%), indicating work needed. - Top priorities for investment: trails/loop walking paths, restroom improvements, general repair/maintenance, indoor walking/recreation, new aquatic center. Plaza Park Raceway had low support. - Communication preferences: Facebook, city website, Instagram, email. - Council members discussed the need for upkeep (especially mowing), multi-use facilities, indoor recreation, shade, and addressing restroom cleanliness. Vice Mayor Wynn noted the need for better indoor facilities and asked about comments on Harold's Grove (transient activity). Mayor Taylor said the data will help plan future funding and design of the East Side Regional Park (200+ acres). - Received presentation unanimously (4-0). No formal action taken aside from acceptance. 2. Proposed Elimination of Transit Fixed Route 17 - Staff reported that Route 17 (serving the Visalia Industrial Park) had extremely low ridership—on average one rider every three hours—and operating costs of $8,000 per year. A three-year grant funding the route has been exhausted. Public engagement (July 21–September 8) yielded 14 comments: 9 opposed, 2 supportive, 3 neutral. The largest employers indicated few employees use the route. Microtransit (Visalia Connect) and future Cross Valley Corridor improvements were presented as alternatives. Route 15 may be adjusted to serve some needs. Councilmember Soto asked about adding an Amazon stop to Route 15; staff said proximity may be difficult but will take it back for discussion. Public hearing: two speakers expressed concerns but staff explained the low ridership and alternative options. Motion to approve elimination passed 4-0. Staff will present the Short Range Transit Plan update on September 21, 2026. 3. 2025 Public Hearing and CAPER Approval - Margie Perez presented the Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) for Program Year 2025/26. Total CDBG resources: $1.9 million; expenses/accomplishments included 476 homeless individuals counted in point-in-time count, 13 individuals assisted via permanent supportive housing, 84 via fair housing workshops, 49 via housing flex funds, 93 via Eden House transitional housing, 3 single-family home repairs, 394 code enforcement citations (355 corrected), and Lincoln Oval Park improvements. HOME resources: $741,000; Rancho Colegio (80 units, 11 HOME-assisted, 20 farmworker set-aside) completed January 2026. Public hearing held, no public comments. Motion to adopt Resolution No. 2026-58 passed 4-0. 4. Prohousing Public Hearing (First Hearing) - Brandon Smith explained the state's Prohousing Designation Program, which offers non-competitive funding (base $750,000 + up to $500,000 bonus) for housing projects. The city already meets 26 policies (38 points) plus enhancement factors (18 points) for a total of 56 points, well above the 30-point threshold. Public participation period runs August 21–September 21, 2026. Council members noted this is effectively mandatory for future grant eligibility. No action required at this hearing; second public hearing and potential adoption set for September 21, 2026. Public comment: Irene Lappin requested readable document format. Staff will address. 5. Urgency Ordinance – Temporary Moratorium on Data Center Development - Paul Brunell and City Attorney Jim Coons presented the urgency ordinance (Ordinance 2026-10) imposing a 45-day moratorium on accepting, processing, or issuing permits for new data center development, including communication equipment buildings as defined in city code. Findings cite potential impacts on public health, safety, welfare, water, energy, noise, and changing land use patterns. The moratorium can be extended twice: first for up to 10 months and 15 days, then for an additional year. Councilmember Soto requested extending the 15-minute public comment limit; the mayor allowed more time (total 13 minutes used). Public testimony: 10 speakers (in person and online) strongly supported the moratorium, many urging a permanent ban. No speakers opposed. Motion to adopt the urgency ordinance required a 4/5 vote; passed 4-0. 6. Public Hearing on 5-Year PLHA Plan - Margie Perez presented the draft 5-Year Plan (FY 2025/26–2029/30) for Permanent Local Housing Allocation (PLHA) funds. Total estimated five-year allocation: $2.29 million. Proposed allocations: 65% for Visalia Navigation Center operations, 15% for temporary emergency shelter (warming center), and 15% for Eden House bridge housing. Accomplishments from FY 2024/25: navigation center served 244 unduplicated clients (299 duplicated), warming center assisted 727 individuals, Eden House assisted 93 homeless individuals. Council discussed senior housing (Crescent Meadows, 80 units for seniors 62+, 24 set aside for homeless veterans). Public hearing held, no public comments. Motion to proceed with proposed allocations and direct staff to return for adoption on September 21, 2026, passed 4-0. Key Outcomes - Parks Master Plan: Received presentation. Staff will proceed with next phases: level of service analysis, operational assessments, cost estimates, and funding strategies. - Transit Fixed Route 17: Eliminated effective at council-designated date (likely October 2026). Resources to be redirected to more efficient services. - CAPER: Approved (Resolution 2026-58). - Prohousing Application: First public hearing held. Second hearing and potential adoption on September 21, 2026. - Data Center Moratorium: Adopted (Ordinance 2026-10) for 45 days, effective immediately. City will research impacts and may extend. - 5-Year PLHA Plan: Council endorsed proposed activity allocations. Final adoption scheduled for September 21, 2026. - Next Meeting: Monday, September 21, 2026, at 7:00 PM at 707 W. Acequia.

The meeting was scheduled for Monday, August 17, 2026, with a work session at 4:00 PM, closed session at 6:00 PM, and regular session at 7:00 PM. The provided transcript contains only a microphone sound check and no substantive discussion, public comments, votes, or decisions. Meeting minutes were not provided. Therefore, no detailed summary of proceedings is possible. The agenda listed numerous items, including a work session on an entertainment ordinance, inclusive park project, and stormwater master plan update, as well as a consent calendar with 17 items (e.g., pavement rehabilitation, park contracts, grant submissions, and a requested moratorium on data centers). No outcomes from these items are documented in the available source material.

The Visalia City Council convened on Monday, August 17, 2026, starting with a 4:00 PM work session followed by a closed session at 6:00 PM and the regular session at 7:00 PM. The meeting included a moment of silence for former Mayor Greg Collins and an invocation led by Pastor Unrau of Parkside Chapel. Council took action on three work session items, approved the consent calendar with two items pulled for separate discussion, and received extensive public comment on various issues. Work Session Discussion Items 1. Entertainment Ordinance Discussion (Item 26-0088) - Associate Planner Colleen Moreno presented a draft entertainment ordinance and permit application aimed at streamlining approvals for live entertainment while maintaining safety standards. The proposed hybrid approach allows administrative approval for entertainment ending by 10:00 PM, with a conditional use permit (CUP) required for later hours. Baseline conditions include security personnel, noise compliance, and queuing requirements. Public comment was received from Jenna Rodriguez (Chamber of Commerce, support with clarifications), Mary Beatie (planning commissioner, suggested definitional and editorial improvements), and Jeremy Schultz (business owner, inquired about permit duration and fee structure). Council discussed removing the morning time restriction, making the entertainment permit transferable, and setting the administrative cutoff at 10:00 PM or possibly 11:00 PM. Council directed staff to begin drafting ordinance revisions incorporating the feedback, including removal of the morning restriction and clarification of transferability. Council Member Nelsen made a motion, seconded by Council Member Poochigian, to approve as recommended. The motion passed unanimously (5–0). 2. Inclusive Park Project (Item 26-0092) - Associate Engineer Cody McLaughlin presented an updated concept layout for a fully inclusive park at the corner of Mill Creek Parkway and McCullough Street. The design includes accessible playground equipment, sensory amenities, water play, fitness equipment, ball courts, and a walking path. A six-foot perimeter fence, controlled hours (likely dawn to dusk), and a gated parking lot were included to address neighborhood concerns. Staff requested authorization to proceed with design and construction drawings even before final state grant approval. Council Member Nelson expressed a desire to expedite the project. A motion by Vice Mayor Wynn, seconded by Council Member Nelsen, to authorize moving forward was unanimously approved (5–0). 3. Stormwater Master Plan Update (Item 26-0078) - Associate Engineer Katherine Woodhull-Fuget presented an update shifting from a discharge- to a recharge-focused approach, using regional retention basins to comply with regulatory requirements and limited waterway capacity. The plan evaluates existing systems using a contemporaneous design storm, identifies $1.4 million in deficiencies, and proposes future basins sized for retention. Council discussed the need for a developer partnership, impact fees, and a future rate study. A motion by Council Member Nelsen, seconded by Council Member Poochigian, to authorize release of the plan for public comment was unanimously approved (5–0). Public Comments & Testimony During Work Session: - Jenna Rodriguez (Chamber of Commerce) supported the entertainment ordinance but asked for a simplified process for existing CUP holders adding low-impact daytime activities. - Mary Beatie (planning commissioner) recommended clarifying definitions, the term "entertainment permit," and environmental documentation requirements. - Jeremy Schultz (business owner) asked about the permit timeframe and cost differences between a CUP and entertainment permit. During Regular Session – General Public Comment: - Jim Reeves raised concerns about the Flock license plate reader system, reporting 507,696 queries in one month and 309 agencies accessing Visalia’s database. - Pastor Isabel Vela and Jeff Poole spoke about allegations of harassment by Tulare County Sheriff Mike Boudreau, urging the council to take reports seriously. A caller, Amanda Denno, disputed the accusations, alleging the accusers have a pattern of false claims. During Consent Calendar Public Comment (Item 16 – Data Center Moratorium): - Multiple speakers (Esmeralda Addington, Natalie Ortiz, Mia Llerenas, Riley Smires, Melissa Moore, DJ Kimble, Maria Guillén, Faith Ortiz, Erica Brooks, Lewis Carroll) spoke against data centers, citing water depletion, air pollution, noise, energy demands, and negative impacts on agriculture and public health. They urged the council to adopt a moratorium. Consent Calendar - All items except 16 and 17 were approved unanimously (5–0) under one motion. Key approvals included: - Lot 44 & Transit Operations parking lot rehabilitation contract ($1,259,372) - Reinstatement of the Building Advisory Committee - Various park, water, and facility contracts - Confirmation of a $30,000 Alcohol Policing Program grant - Acceptance of the fiscal year 2025-26 cape seal project completion Discussion Items (Regular Session) Item 16 – Data Center Moratorium (Request by Council Member Poochigian) - Council Member Poochigian proposed placing a future agenda item to discuss a moratorium prohibiting development of data centers and similar high-intensity uses with significant water net loss and electrical demands. Council Member Hernandez Soto requested adding "and/or" to cover closed-loop systems. All members expressed support. The motion to place the item on a future agenda passed unanimously (5–0). Item 17 – Appointment in Lieu of Election (Resolution 2026-61) - Council Member Poochigian explained that he faced no opponent for District 3 and noted the $20,000 cost of an election. However, he opposed the resolution because it would eliminate the write-in candidate option. Council Members Taylor, Nelsen, and Wynn supported the resolution to save costs. The motion passed 3–2 (Taylor, Nelsen, Wynn in favor; Poochigian, Hernandez Soto opposed). Key Outcomes - Directed staff to draft ordinance revisions for the Entertainment Ordinance, including removal of the morning restriction and making permits transferable. - Authorized staff to proceed with design and construction drawings for the Inclusive Park Project, pending state grant approval. - Authorized release of the Stormwater Master Plan update for public comment. - Approved the consent calendar (items 1-15) unanimously. - Approved placement of a future agenda item to discuss a data center moratorium (5–0). - Adopted Resolution 2026-61 for appointment in lieu of election for District 3 (3–2). - The next regular meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at 7:00 PM.

The Visalia City Council met on Monday, August 3, 2026 at 7:00 PM in City Council Chambers. The agenda included a consent calendar of 14 routine items, two regular agenda items, and a closed session. However, the provided transcript contains only microphone checks and no substantive discussion, so no actions or public comments can be verified from this record. Consent Calendar - The consent calendar included 14 items: authorization to read ordinances by title, payment to California Vanpool Authority, contract for Fire Station 54 parking lot rehabilitation, FAA grant acceptance, St. John's River Trail landscaping contract, ordinance for farming lease on 408 acres, ordinance on commercial cannabis activity, ordinance for annexation of 78.11 acres (D.R. Horton), revised resolutions for Clements Ranch subdivision, two notices of completion (Mill Creek culvert and cellular radios), resolution designating city property into public right-of-way, acceptance of CHP Cannabis Tax Fund Grant, and termination of an ATP grant for Goshen-Visalia Corridor with support for Caltrans Ivanhoe project. No outcomes are available from the transcript. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments are recorded in the transcript. Discussion Items 1. Shopping Cart Ordinance Update – Consideration of updates to Municipal Code Chapter 8.70 on abandoned shopping carts. No discussion recorded. 2. AB 481 Military Equipment Annual Report – Review of Visalia Police Department's 2025 Military Equipment Annual Report and adoption of Resolution 2026-53 renewing the policy. No discussion recorded. Key Outcomes - The transcript does not contain any votes, decisions, or directives. No outcomes can be confirmed from the provided materials. The agenda indicates the items were scheduled for consideration. Note: The closed session report in the agenda lists a property transaction: City of Visalia purchase from Albe Industries for $2,718 for the Shirk Capacity Enhancement Project, with a closing date of July 23, 2026. This may have been reported after closed session, but no verbal report is captured.

The Visalia City Council met on Monday, August 3, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the City Council Chambers, with a closed session beginning at 6:30 PM. The meeting included recognition of two regional champion Cal Ripken baseball teams, public comments on various topics, adoption of a consent calendar with one item pulled for discussion, and two regular agenda items: updates to the abandoned shopping cart ordinance and the annual AB 481 military equipment use report. All votes were unanimous (5-0). Consent Calendar - Authorization to read ordinances by title only. - Authorization for payment to California Vanpool Authority (CalVans) for Visalia Transit contributions. - Award contract for Fire Station 54 parking lot rehabilitation to Tosted Asphalt, Inc. for $176,479.84, with $115,000 appropriation from the General Fund. (Item pulled by Council Member Nelsen for discussion; later approved unanimously.) - Conditional acceptance of FAA Airport Infrastructure Grant of $201,020 for design of Tiedown Apron A3 Reconstruction at Visalia Municipal Airport, with local match of $10,580 from Airport Fund. - Award contract for St. John’s River Trail landscaping east of Dinuba Boulevard to Gowin Green Landscaping for $287,826, with additional appropriation of $255,000 from Waterways Capital Fund. - Second reading and adoption of Ordinance No. 2026-08 authorizing a long-term lease for 408 acres of open ground to Correia Custom Farming Inc. - Second reading and adoption of Ordinance No. 2026-05 adding Chapter 4.04 “Commercial Cannabis Activity” to the Municipal Code, rescinding Chapter 5.66, amending Chapter 8.64, approving Zoning Text Amendment No. 2026-01, and adopting Resolution No. 2026-42 establishing application and selection process for retail cannabis business licenses. - Second reading and adoption of Ordinance No. 2026-07 for Annexation No. 2025-04 (D.R. Horton) to prezone ±78.11 acres to R-1, R-M-2, R-M-3, and QP zones at northeast corner of Lovers Lane and Caldwell Avenue. - Adoption of revised Resolutions Nos. 2026-47 and 2026-48 upholding an appeal for Clements Ranch Tentative Subdivision Map No. 5606 and Tentative Parcel Map No. 2025-13 (292 lots on ±78.11 acres). - Filing notice of completion for Mill Creek culvert replacement project. - Filing notice of completion for installation of cellular radios in sanitary sewer lift stations. - Adoption of Resolution 2026-55 designating city-owned property at northwest corner of Clancy Street and Nicholas Avenue into public right of way. - Authorization to accept CHP Cannabis Tax Fund Grant Program ($156,978) for Visalia Police Department, approving Resolution No. 2026-54. - Authorization to issue a letter to the California Transportation Commission terminating an Active Transportation Program grant of $795,000 for the Goshen-Visalia Corridor improvement project, and supporting reprogramming of funds to the Caltrans Ivanhoe Safe Routes to School project. Public Comments & Testimony - Jim Reeves (Visalia): Filed a public records request regarding the city’s Flock automated license plate reader system; described three-month delays and lack of transparency. Expressed concern about secret policing. - Bill Huott (Visalia): Initially opposed Flock cameras but after speaking with Captain Swordhouse, now 100% supports the system for catching car thieves. Also commended the city's Sweep team for cleaning graffiti and trash; shared his volunteer philosophy “Clean is less mean.” - Irene Lapin (Visalia): Criticized spending $18,000+ on America’s 250th birthday display at the convention center, calling it tacky. Objected to new bike lanes, described them as “obstacle courses from hell.” Questioned a contract with a New Zealand company for the Highland Community project, cost overruns, and lack of transparency. Urged council to stop. - Dr. Esteban Verduzco (Visalia): Reported that his electricity was cut twice by Southern California Edison, preventing him from seeing 16 telemedicine patients due to no HIPAA-compliant Wi-Fi in the city. Requested help with this municipal-level problem. - Kathy Falconer (Visalia): Raised concerns about potential data center development in the area, citing water and energy use (large data center uses water equivalent to 1.2 million people or energy of Woodlake). Asked questions about city preparedness, zoning, and public input. Also discussed wildfire risks. - Mikki K. (Visalia): Noted opposition to data centers growing across counties; mentioned upcoming town halls in Kings and Tulare counties. Provided details of a data center town hall on August 28 in Hanford. - Sam Sciacca (Visalia): Thanked council and planning commission for approving an 82-unit subdivision on his family’s property (farmed since 1924). Said it will provide workforce housing. Announced upcoming downtown events, including a Jaws of Life demonstration on Main Street in October. - Kathy Connelly (Visalia): Expressed support for Flock cameras but concern about who else accesses data (citing Texas cases tracking women’s healthcare choices). Opposed data centers due to environmental impact, water use, and job displacement. - Efrain Becerra (District 1, Visalia): Asked for more transparency on Flock cameras. Thanked the city and community for support. Praised city staff and council professionalism compared to other cities. Announced an exhibit at the Tulare County Museum (September 5) with 32 countries represented. Discussion Items - Shopping Cart Ordinance Update (Item 1): Code Enforcement Officer Jeff Riedmann presented proposed updates to Municipal Code Chapter 8.70. Key proposals: increase cost recovery fee from $50 to $100 per cart (as per Senate Bill 753), require physical containment systems at new or significantly expanded businesses (triggered by improvements over $50,000). Staff collected 1,630 carts in 2024 and 843 in the first four months of 2026. Council expressed support, noting the need to reduce blight. Direction given to staff to return with a formal ordinance within 45–60 days. Motion by Vice Mayor Wynn, seconded by Council Member Nelsen, passed unanimously. - AB 481 Annual Report – Military Equipment Use (Item 2): Lieutenant Dominguez presented the annual report. Highlights: no citizen complaints, no inventory changes, no use of surplus military equipment. Deployments in 2025: armored rescue vehicle used 15 times, drones 221 times, bomb truck 20 times, bomb robots 10 times, chemical agents/direct impact munitions used 4 times. The report is publicly available on the police department website. Council adopted Resolution 2026-53 renewing the Military Equipment Use Policy (Ordinance 2022-09). Motion by Council Member Nelsen, seconded by Vice Mayor Wynn, passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - All 14 consent calendar items approved (5-0), with item 3 (Fire Station 54 parking lot) pulled for discussion and then approved. - Shopping Cart Ordinance direction given: staff to prepare ordinance amendments within 45–60 days (approved unanimously). - AB 481 annual report accepted and Resolution 2026-53 adopted (unanimous). - Closed Session report: City acquired a small parcel from Albe Industries for the Shirk Capacity Enhancement Project for $2,718 (closing date July 23, 2026). - Next regular council meeting: Monday, August 17, 2026, at 7:00 PM.

Visalia City Council Meeting - July 20, 2026\n\nThe Visalia City Council held a regular meeting on Monday, July 20, 2026, beginning with a work session at 5:00 PM and the regular session at 7:00 PM. The meeting included a work session on proposed elimination of Transit Fixed Route 17 and a Fourth of July post report, followed by a closed session, then the regular session with consent calendar and regular items. However, the provided transcript only contains a test call and no actual meeting proceedings, so the following summary is based solely on the agenda.\n\n Work Session and Action Items\n- Proposed elimination of Transit Fixed Route 17 (Item 26-0041): The council considered eliminating the route serving the Visalia Industrial Park and scheduling a 30-day public comment period and public hearing.\n- City Department Fourth of July post report (Item 26-0060): The council received a report summarizing 2026 activities related to community engagement and public safety.\n\n Consent Calendar\nThe consent calendar included 18 routine items, all considered for approval in one motion. Items included:\n- Authorization to read ordinances by title only.\n- Ordinance adoption for zone change on 21-acre parcel at Akers and Riggin.\n- Record final map for Belissa Phase 2 subdivision (108 lots) and annexation into Landscape and Lighting District.\n- Declare surplus city property (APN 077-100-103) and authorize disposition.\n- Accept Office of Traffic STEP grant ($189,525) and appropriate General Fund funds.\n- Fire Department PPE contract with All Star Fire Equipment (up to $120,000 annually, with four one-year renewals).\n- Sole source purchase order to Cummins Inc. for renewable power generation system at Water Reclamation Facility ($251,757).\n- Design contract with 4Creeks for fleet maintenance shop improvements ($147,255).\n- Contract for Central Valley Regional Bomb Squad Vehicle Replacement ($436,397).\n- Design contract for Shirk Street widening ($667,446) and Measure R supplemental agreement ($726,600).\n- Notice of completion for Evans Ditch culvert replacement.\n- Caltrans funding agreement for Mooney Avenue bus rapid transit segment of Cross Valley Corridor.\n- Appointment of Scott Feil to Citizens Advisory Committee.\n- Service agreement with Visalia Unified School District for after-school club at Manuel F. Hernandez Community Center.\n- Notice of completion for Riverway Sports Park Fencing Project.\n- Annual contract for landscape and irrigation repair services ($45,000).\n- Ordinance authorizing long-term lease of 408 acres to Correia Custom Farming Inc. (first reading).\n- Notice of completion for Carleton Acres Phase 1A subdivision (73 lots).\n\n Regular Items and Public Hearings\n- Ordinance Adoption - Commercial Cannabis Activity (Item 25-0871): First reading and public hearing for Ordinance No. 2026-05 to add Chapter 4.04 on commercial cannabis activity, rescind Chapter 5.66, amend Chapter 8.64, and approve Zoning Text Amendment. Also adoption of Resolution No. 2026-42 establishing application and selection process for retail cannabis business licenses (storefront and non-storefront).\n- Appeal of Planning Commission Action (Item 26-0044): Appeal by D.R. Horton of the Planning Commission’s approval of Clements Ranch Tentative Subdivision Map, Tentative Parcel Map, and Conditional Use Permit, regarding conditions for curb, gutter, sidewalk along Lovers Lane and sidewalks within the proposed gated subdivision.\n- Consideration of General Plan amendment, prezone ordinance adoption, and annexation (Item 26-0019): Public hearing for D.R. Horton project on ±78.11 acres at South Lovers Lane and Caldwell Avenue. Actions included adoption of Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration, approval of General Plan Amendment No. 2025-04 to reconfigure land use designations and realign \"K\" Avenue Collector, initiation of annexation proceedings with prezone to R-1, R-M-2, R-M-3, and QP zones, and adoption of Resolution No. 2026-51 for annexation and detachment from County Service Area No. 1 and Consolidated Water District.\n\n Key Outcomes\nNo actual votes or decisions are recorded in the provided materials. The transcript contains only a test call, and no minutes were available. Therefore, outcomes of the above agenda items are unknown based on the supplied information. The meeting included a closed session at 6:00 PM, but no report on closed session actions is available.

The Visalia City Council convened on July 20, 2026, for a work session at5:00 PM and a regular session at7:00 PM. Key actions included authorizing a30-day public comment period on the elimination of Transit Fixed Route17, receiving the Fourth of July post-event report, approving the Consent Calendar with18 items, adopting the first reading of a commercial cannabis ordinance with amended community benefit requirements, and ruling on an appeal of Planning Commission conditions for the Clements Ranch subdivision. The Council also approved a General Plan amendment, prezone, and annexation for the same project. Work Session - Proposed Elimination of Transit Fixed Route17: The Council authorized staff to open a30-day public comment period and schedule a public hearing for September7, 2026, regarding the elimination of Route17 serving the Visalia Industrial Park. The route has been the lowest-performing in the system, costing approximately $150,000 annually with only0.3 riders per hour and an estimated3,000 passenges per year. Staff noted that the route is not well-suited for fixed-route service and that microtransit could be a future alternative. Motion carried5-0. - Fourth of July Post Report: Fire Marshal Corbin Reed and Parks Director Jason Glick presented the2026 Fourth of July recap. Key statistics:27 nonprofit fireworks stands,123 calls handled by the city call center (offloading from dispatch),376 total firework-related calls year-to-date (down over100 from2025),67 citations issued,103 fire department calls for service, an estimated15,000 attendees at the Independence Spectacular (up5,000 from2025), and5 lost animals recovered (2 reclaimed). Council praised staff and noted fewer illegal fireworks compared to previous years. Consent Calendar The Consent Calendar was approved unanimously with18 items, including ordinance adoptions, surplus property declaration, grant acceptence, contracts, and notices of completition. Notable items: - Second reading of Ordinance No.2026-04 (corrected to2026-09) for zone change at Akers and Riggin (21-acre parcel from QP to CMU). - Surplus declaration of the same property (APN077-100-103) for development proposals. - Acceptence of a $189,525 STEP grant for Police traffic enforcement. - $120,000 annual contract for firefighter PPE with All Star Fire Equipment. - $251,757 sole source purchase order to Cummins for water reclamation facility power generation. - $667,446 design contract to4Creeks for Shirk Street widening. - $436,397 contract for regional bomb squad vehicle replacement. - Other items: after-school club agreement with VUSD, landscape repair contract, long-term lease for408 acres to Correia Custom Farming, and various notices of completition. - Note: The minutes indicate Conset item2's ordinance number was corrected to2026-09. Public Comments & Testimony - Jeff Poole (Visalia) addressed child trafficking and pedophilia awareness, citing318 convicted predators in the city, and called for more action. - Linda Martinez (Visalia) requested support for adding cameras to special needs classrooms in VUSD, citing bullying and mistreatment of nonverbal children. - Maria Guilen (Visalia) spoke about the Koi Strawberry Stand at Ackers and Ferguson, facing closure after18 years due to the land owner's refusal to renew the lease, and asked the city to appeal to the owner for compromise. - Irene Lapin (Visalia) criticized the city's fireworks data collection, claiming the reported decrease in complaints is inaccurate, and noted the call center was under-equipped. She also commended the PSA messaging but said more is needed. - Mikki K (Visalia) described poor treatment at transit centers, lack of working outlets, and security harassment, requesting better conditions for riders. - During the Route17 discussion, no public comments were offered. - For the cannabis ordinance, no public comments were offered. - For the Clements Ranch appeal, public testimony was heard from Aman Narwal (representing D.R. Horton), Steven Brandt (project engineer), and Dave Crinklaw (West Art Construction). They argued against the sidewalk and frontage improvement conditions, citing inconsistency with past practice, high costs, and safety concerns with the Lovers Lane sidewalk. - For the General Plan amendment, Steven Brandt expressed support for the project. Discussion Items - Commercial Cannabis Ordinance (First Reading): Ordinance No.2026-05 establishes a regulatory framework for commercial cannabis activity, including retail storefront and non-storefront licenses. The Council amended the community benefits requirement from a minimum of $50,000 or1% of annual gross receipts to $75,000 or1.5%, whichever is greater. The ordinance rescinds Chapter5.66 and amends Chapter8.64. The application selection process (Resolution2026-42) recommends a lottery system to reduce litigation exposure. Councilmembers expressed support for having the ordinance in place even if current number of permits is set to zero, to comply with state law and be ready for future allowance. Motion carried5-0. - Appeal of Planning Commission Conditions – Clements Ranch: The Council considered D.R. Horton's appeal of two conditions from the Planning Commission's approval of the subdivision. - Condition on Lovers Lane frontage improvements (curb, gutter, sidewalk along the designated remainder): The Council voted5-0 to grant the appeal, removing the requirement for immediate improvements, citing the high cost ($500,000), uncertainty of reimbursement, and the incomplete connection (gap remaining near railroad and utility easements). The Council allowed the possibility of future reimbursement through an area benefit mechanism. - Condition on internal sidewalks within the gated subdivision: The Council voted3-2 to deny the appeal, upholding the Planning Commission's requirement for sidewalks on at least one side of streets within the gated area. Councilmembers who supported the requirement cited walkability and connectivity; those opposed noted the lack of past precedent and added costs to housing affordability. - General Plan Amendment, Prezone, and Annexation – Clements Ranch: The Council approved Resolution2026-46 (Mitigated Negative Declaration), Resolution2026-50 (General Plan Amendment No.2025-04, including reconfiguration of land use designations and realignment of K Avenue collector to Sunnyside Avenue), and initiated proceedings for annexation (Ordinance No.2026-07) to prezone the78.11-acre site to R-1, R-M-2, R-M-3, and QP. Motion carried5-0. Key Outcomes - Route17 Elimination:30-day public comment period opened; public hearing scheduled for September7, 2026. - Cannabis Ordinance: First reading approved with amended community benefits ($75,000 or1.5% annually). Final adoption to follow. - Clements Ranch Appeal: Appeal on Lovers Lane improvements granted (5-0); appeal on internal sidewalks denied (3-2), planning condition upheld. - Clements Ranch GP Amendment/Annexation: Approved (5-0). - Consent Calendar: Approved (5-0). - Fourth of July Report: Received and filed; staff to return with ordinance review and fine increase recommendations. - Next Meetings: August3 and August17, 2026, at7:00 PM.