Public Meetings - Visalia, California

Note: The meeting transcript indicates the meeting occurred on June 16, 2025, but the provided date is June 20, 2025. This summary uses the provided date. The meeting included a work session and a regular session, covering financial reports, recreation projects, oak tree ordinance revisions, special events policy reconsideration, and various routine matters. Consent Calendar - Consent Calendar (Regular Meeting): The council approved the consent calendar (excluding item 7) on a 5-0 vote. Item 7 (FY 2025-26 salary schedule) was pulled for discussion and passed 5-0 after clarification that salary increases only apply to newly elected council members. Public Comments & Testimony - Work Session – Public Comments (Item 2 – Financial Report): No public speakers. - Work Session – Public Comments (Item 3 – Recreation Projects): Joyce Reed (Visalia) expressed strong support for additional pickleball courts, noting the sport's growth, and requested bathroom facilities at Recreation Park. - Work Session – Public Comments (Item 4 – Oak Tree Ordinance): Jim Reeves (Visalia) urged caution, supporting Option 1 (modify removal criteria) and warning that Options 2 or 3 could lead to a loss of most valley oaks within a decade. - Work Session – Public Comments (Item 5 – Special Events Ordinance): No public speakers. - Regular Meeting – General Public Comments: - Irene Lappin (Visalia) requested advanced pet safety warnings for July 4th and questioned the costs and transparency of the July 3rd "City Spectacular" event. - Suzanne Gundy (Visalia) asked the city to expand the feral cat neuter program, noting limited vet options. - Maria Guillen (Visalia) praised the Source LGBTQ+ Center proclamation and announced a Juneteenth celebration collaboration with Parks and Rec. - Jim Reeves (Visalia) thanked the council for the Pride Month proclamation and highlighted the Source's capital campaign. - Regular Meeting – Contested Special Assessments (Item 1): - Abigail Trevino (Visalia) claimed a court ordered refund of $12,066 plus interest from 2014-2015 property tax roll charges, stating the city hasn't complied. - Suzanne Gundy (Visalia) requested a waiver of $12,000 in interest fees on delinquent utility bills for her low-income rental property, citing hardship. - Regular Meeting – Central Core Sidewalk Survey (Item 3): Maria Guillen (Visalia) thanked the city for addressing trip hazards, noting risks for elderly residents. - Public Comments on Other Regular Items: None. Discussion Items Work Session - Item 1 – New Employee Introductions: The police chief introduced two new police department employees. - Item 2 – FY 2025-26 Mid-Cycle Financial Report (Renee Nagel, Finance Director): - Overview of the two-year budget cycle; second budget review focused on FY 25-26 changes. - Key adjustments: property tax revenue growth revised from 2% to 3%; health insurance costs increased (city share to 8%); city allocations up $300,000. - Forecast: revenues growing 2% annually, but expenditures rising faster (staffing, technology, PERS, insurance). Projected general fund savings of $5.4 million. - Request to appropriate an additional $1 million for Riverway Sports Park fence (total $2.5 million). - Surplus policy discussion: current policy channels surplus to emergency reserve (30% of operating expenditures) then to Civic Center Public Safety Reserve Fund. Council discussed future project priorities (Civic Center Phase 3, East Regional Park, community pool, community center upgrades). - Councilmembers expressed caution on expenditure growth and desire to maintain surplus for major projects while also funding smaller “quick-win” improvements. - Item 3 – Recreation Projects Update (Jason Glect, Parks & Rec Director): - Recap of completed ARPA-funded projects (shade structures, playgrounds, restrooms, irrigation, etc.). - Ongoing projects: Stonebrook shade structures, Riverway fence, splash pad renovation, Harrell Grove upgrade. - Future projects: HVAC replacements at community centers, three new neighborhood parks (Elliott, Pearlwoods, Victory Oaks), East Regional Park. - Staff recommended project list totaling $1.6 million: Anthony Center gym floor ($220k), HVAC conversion at Anthony and Manuel Hernandez centers ($350k each), Plaza Park pickleball court resurfacing ($85k), Recreation Park pickleball courts with lights ($470k), Jefferson Park mini-pitch ($220k), Summers Park basketball restriping ($15k). - Council generally supportive; Vice Mayor Wynne emphasized using surplus funds for these projects. - Item 4 – Oak Tree Ordinance Review (Jason Glect, Zach Huff): - Historical background: ordinance adopted 2018, with permit requirements for removal of valley oaks on private property. - Challenges: increasing insurance non-renewals, safety concerns, administrative burden. - Four options presented: 1. Modify removal criteria (e.g., allow removal for damage to structures, close proximity to buildings, insurance non-renewal). 2. Partial deregulation: exempt existing single-family residential properties from permits (multifamily, commercial, new subdivisions still require permits). 3. Full ordinance elimination: no permits for any private property removal; city manages public trees. 4. Seek further public input. - Council discussion favored Options 2 or 3. Councilmember Rosoto moved Option 2 with amendment to include all existing private property (not just single-family). Councilmember supported with desire for a heritage grove. Mayor wanted to celebrate oak trees via website/planting programs. - Item 5 – Reconsideration of Special Events Ordinance (City Manager): - City manager explained misinterpretation of November 2024 motion: the ordinance was to return February 18, 2025 for discussion, but no meeting occurred. Staff brought item for council direction. - Discussion focused on Downtown Visalia Farmers Market: vendor Lacey Lancaster raised concerns about notification requirements (good neighbor policy) and limitations on using both sides of Main Street (12 events per year limit). - Councilmember Nelson gave a lengthy statement about past conflicts with the farmers market director, alleging attacks and an FPPC complaint. He argued the ordinance should stay as is. - Councilmember Soto noted that productive meetings occurred but no consensus was reached. - Council vote: motion to leave ordinance as adopted November 18, 2024 passed 3-2 (Councilmembers Wynne and Soto opposed). Regular Meeting - Special Presentation: Isabel Flores recognized for winning the 2025 State Lions Speaker Contest; she gave brief remarks and received a $21,000 scholarship. - Proclamation: Pride Month and the Source LGBTQ+ Center recognized. Source representative thanked council and highlighted upcoming events. - PRSA Awards: City Communications received four Image Awards for holiday decorating contest and ATP Cycle 7 campaign. - Item 7 – Salary Schedule Pulled from Consent: Amy Powell (HR) explained salary increases occur only at the start of a new council term; the current adjustment was approved for future terms. Public comment: none. Motion passed 5-0. - Item 1 – Contested Special Assessments (Ruth Pena, Finance): - Staff recommended placing $44,509.36 on the tax roll for eight contested parcels, with three removals and two modifications (stipulated agreements). - Council discussed utility interest fees; no reduction made. Motion to adopt Resolution 2025-40 passed 5-0. - Item 2 – FY 2025-26 Rates and Fees (Jana Ferguson, Finance): - Proposed inflationary increases (CPI 3.06%, ENR 1.68%, business tax CPI 5.02%). - Adjustments: pickleball/tennis court rental to $8/hour; trolley rates rounded to $162/hour for non-city; Sequoia Shuttle changes deferred to next year. - Public hearing held; no speakers. Motion to adopt Resolution 2025-08 passed 5-0. - Item 3 – Central Core Sidewalk Survey (Chung Perry, Engineering): - Survey of 1,400 grant-funded trees found 65% offsets (shaving), 30% remove/replace, 5% gaps. - Immediate shaving/filling work costs $214,325 from $500,000 budget; remaining funds for root trimming. - Full remove/replace estimated at $1.2 million; staff will return with details. Work begins July 7. - Public comment from Maria Guillen supportive. No motion required; council received report. - Item 4 – Ordinance Adoption – Zoning Text Amendment 2025-01 (Paul Burnell): - Cleanup to align zoning ordinance with council’s previous adoption of objective design standards by resolution. - Public hearing; one councilmember voted no. Motion passed 4-1. - Item 5 – Measure N Spending Plan Amendment – Axon Contract (Capt. Dan Ford): - Authorized city manager to execute contract amendment for body cameras and technologies; appropriate $138,121 from Measure N fund. - Public hearing; no speakers. Motion passed 5-0. Key Outcomes - FY 2025-26 Mid-Cycle Financial Report: Motion passed 4-1 to accept report, appropriate $1 million for Riverway Sports Park fence, and begin surplus policy discussion. - Recreation Projects: Motion passed 5-0 to accept staff report and appropriate $1.6 million from projected FY 24-25 general fund surplus for the recommended projects list. - Oak Tree Ordinance: Motion passed 4-1 to adopt Option 2 (partial deregulation) with amendment to exempt all private property (not just single-family). Staff to return with ordinance revisions. - Special Events Ordinance: Motion passed 3-2 to keep the ordinance as adopted November 18, 2024. - Consent Calendar: Approved 5-0; item 7 (salary schedule) approved 5-0 after discussion. - Contested Special Assessments: Resolution 2025-40 approved 5-0 to place $44,509.36 on the tax roll. - Rates and Fees: Resolution 2025-08 approved 5-0. - Zoning Text Amendment: Ordinance 2024-16 introduced (first reading); passed 4-1. - Measure N Amendment: Authorized city manager to execute Axon contract and appropriate funds; passed 5-0.

The Visalia City Council held a meeting on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at 7:00 PM. Based on the available agenda, the meeting appeared to be a test session with minimal business conducted. No transcript or minutes were provided. Consent Calendar - Consent Item: "test for rivera" (Item 24-0609) was listed but no details on action. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were recorded in the available materials. Discussion Items - No regular items or public hearings were listed beyond the consent calendar. Key Outcomes - No decisions or votes are documented due to the lack of transcript and minutes. Note: The agenda includes references to "Test for Rivera" throughout, suggesting this meeting may have been a procedural test. The above summary is based solely on the agenda; no transcript or minutes were available.

The Visalia City Council held a work session and regular meeting on June 2, 2025, with Council Members Brian Poochigian, Steve Nelsen, and Emmanuel Hernandez Soto present (Mayor Brett Taylor and Vice Mayor Liz Wynn absent). The work session (4:23 PM to 5:09 PM) covered proposed FY 2025-26 fees and a Fire Prevention Division overview. The regular session (7:00 PM to 7:58 PM) included public comments, consent calendar approvals, a special assessment hearing, a subdivision annexation, and a continuation of a zoning text amendment. Work Session - Fiscal Year 2025-26 Rates and Fees: Finance Director Renee Nagel and Financial Analyst Jana Ferguson presented proposed fee changes, including new fees, CPI-based increases (3.06% for California CPI, 1.68% for construction cost index), and adjustments tied to MOU settlements. Council discussed rounding fees and potential discounts for seniors, veterans, and children. No formal action taken; final consideration set for June 16, 2025. - Fire Department Prevention Division Overview: Fire Chief Dan Griswold and Fire Marshal Corbin Reed presented the division's functions, including fire inspections (132 per engine crew per year), property maintenance code enforcement, fire alarm permits (800 annually), fire investigations, community education, construction access standards, and illegal fireworks enforcement. Council praised the division's work. Public Comments - Irene Lapin (Visalia) urged the council to address the low number of TNR surgery appointments (only 12 per week, resulting in only 6 residents able to participate) and proposed funding a local veterinarian or mobile sterilization service. She also requested item 6 on the consent calendar be pulled. - Jatinder Chopra (physician, property owner) complained about city harassment from neighborhood preservation regarding tenant issues and utility bills. - Susan Gundhi (property owner) spoke about high fines (120% of actual charges) on utility bills and asked for negotiation. - Efrain Becerra (District 1) questioned approving new housing when water restrictions are in place; Council Member Nelsen responded that water supply is adequate due to conservation. Consent Calendar The consent calendar was approved 3-0, with item 6 pulled for separate discussion. Approved items included: - Authorization to read ordinances by title only. - Civic Center Phase 2 materials testing contract with BSK Associates for $437,933.60. - Chemical supply contracts with Target Specialty Products ($235,000/year) and Helena Agri Enterprise ($215,000/year). - FY 2025/26 Appropriations Limit (Resolution 2025-33). - Confirmation of Stripe contract for microtransit credit card processing (up to $30,000/year). - Revised Resolution 2025-27 for historic preservation appeal at 410 North Court Street. - Wastewater Capital Improvement Program budget increase of $24,760,000. - Measure T District Tax Recertification. - Reappointment of City Attorney (Peltzer Richardson Law Firm) for two years at $50,600/month (year one) and $52,625/month (year two), plus hourly rates for special services. Item 6 (Alcohol exemption at Riverway Sports Park): Pulled by Council Member Poochigian. Parks & Recreation Director Jason Glick explained it's for the Independence Spectacular drone show (budget $40,000, grant applied for $20,000). Public comment included concerns about safety and naming of the foundation; council approved 3-0. Discussion Items Public Hearing: Miscellaneous Special Assessments (Resolution 2025-17) Finance analyst Ruth Pena presented. Total assessments: owner-requested services ($214,079), special districts ($7.5 million), delinquent service charges ($1.7 million). One formal protest received; several property owners spoke about fines. Council adopted the resolution as amended, 3-0, with items contested to be brought back. Blankenship Subdivision Annexation Assistant Planner Colleen Moreno presented a proposal by San Joaquin Valley Homes to annex 71.43 acres (APNs 123-400-005 and 123-400-001) into the city for a 203-lot single-family subdivision and commercial remainder. Includes adoption of Mitigated Negative Declaration, initiation of annexation proceedings with LAFCO, detachment from County Service Area No. 1, and a pre-annexation agreement. Public comment from Efrain Becerra; council approved all actions 3-0. Ordinance Adoption (Zoning Text Amendment No. 2025-01) City Manager requested continuation to June 16, 2025. Council continued the item 3-0 with no public comment. Measure N Spending Plan and Axon Contract Amendment Police Lieutenant Dan Ford presented first of two public hearings to amend the Body-Worn Camera contract with Axon Enterprises. Request: additional 34 officer safety plans (including TASER 7 and auto-tagging software) for total $431,350.65 over three years, with $138,121 appropriation for FY 2025/26. Measure N committee approved. No action taken; second hearing and vote scheduled June 16. Key Outcomes - Work session: No formal actions; fees will return June 16. - Consent calendar: Approved 3-0 (all items except item 6). - Item 6: Approved 3-0 for one-time alcohol exemption at Riverway Sports Park for Independence Spectacular. - Special Assessments Resolution 2025-17: Adopted as amended 3-0. - Blankenship Subdivision Annexation: Approved 3-0 (resolutions and pre-annexation agreement). - Zoning Text Amendment: Continued to June 16, 2025, 3-0. - Measure N Amendment: First hearing held; second hearing and vote on June 16. - City Attorney Reappointment: Approved on consent calendar, effective for two years.

The Visalia City Council convened on Monday, June 2, 2025, at 7:00 PM in the City Council Chambers, following a work session that began at 4:00 PM. The agenda included a work session on Fiscal Year 2025-26 rates and fees and a Fire Prevention Division overview, a consent calendar with 11 routine items, public hearings, and regular items. No transcript or minutes are available, so details are limited to the published agenda; outcomes such as votes or public comments cannot be confirmed. Consent Calendar - Authorization to read ordinances by title only. - Civic Center Phase 2 Materials Testing Lab Contract Award to BSK Associates for $437,933.60. - Chemical Supply Services Contract to Target Specialty Products of Fresno for an annual not-to-exceed amount of $235,000. - Chemical Supply Services Contract to Helena Agri Enterprise of Sacramento for an annual not-to-exceed amount of $215,000. - Fiscal Year 2025/26 Appropriations Limit: Adoption of Resolution 2025-33. - Approval of a single exemption for alcohol consumption at Riverway Sports Park for the Independence Spectacular event. - Confirmation of contract with Stripe for microtransit credit card processing services (annual fees not to exceed $30,000). - Revised Resolution No. 2025-27 upholding an appeal for window replacement at 410 North Court Street (Historic Preservation Advisory Committee item). - Capital Improvement Program: Updates to the Wastewater Capital Improvement Program Budget with an additional $24,760,000 from the Wastewater Fund. - Measure T District Tax Recertification for Fiscal Year 2025/26. - Reappointment of the City Attorney and authorization for a new two-year agreement with Peltzer Richardson Law Firm (monthly rates: $50,600 year one, $52,625 year two; hourly rates for special services $220 and $150). Public Comments & Testimony - Public comments were invited during the general public comment period and on consent calendar items, but no transcript is available to summarize specific comments or speakers. Discussion Items (Work Session) - Fiscal Year 2025-26 Rates and Fees: The Council received, reviewed, and discussed proposed new fees, increases, and adjustments to the City's Rates and Fees Schedule. - Fire Department Prevention Division Overview: Fire Department command staff presented an overview of the division's functions and key programs. Regular Items and Public Hearings - Public Hearing: Adoption of Resolution 2025-17 authorizing placement of Miscellaneous Special Assessments (curb and gutter, sewer connection, deferred impact fees, etc.) on the Tulare County secured property tax roll. - Blankenship Subdivision Annexation: Public hearing and consideration of Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration No. 2024-63, initiation of annexation proceedings for two parcels totaling approximately 71.43 acres (APN 123-400-005 and 123-400-001), detachment from County Service Area No. 1, and authorization for a pre-annexation agreement with San Joaquin Valley Homes. - Ordinance Adoption: First reading of Ordinance No. 2024-16 (Zoning Text Amendment No. 2025-01) to amend Title 17 of the Visalia Municipal Code to clarify adoption of Single-Family Residential Objective Design Standards by Resolution rather than Ordinance. - Authorization to Amend Measure N Spending Plan and Axon Contract: First of two public hearings to amend the Measure N Spending Plan for the Body-Worn Camera contract with Axon Enterprises ($431,350.65) and appropriate $138,121 for Fiscal Year 2025/26. Key Outcomes - Without a transcript or minutes, specific outcomes (votes, approvals, or rejections) cannot be determined. The agenda lists these items for Council action, but the actual decisions taken are unknown.

The Visalia City Council convened on June 2, 2025, at 4:00 PM for a work session, followed by a closed session at 6:00 PM and a regular session at 7:00 PM. The agenda consisted entirely of test items designated for a system test (labeled "Test for Rivera"), with no substantive business, public comments, or decisions recorded. No minutes or transcript were available for this meeting. Consent Calendar - Item "Reuse 24-0566" was listed on the consent calendar but no action or discussion is recorded. It was likely a test placeholder. Regular Items and Public Hearings - Item "Reuse Regular Item test for Rivera 25-0156" was listed but no discussion or testimony occurred. The item was a test placeholder. Key Outcomes - None. The meeting was a procedural test session with no votes, directives, or policy actions taken.

The Visalia City Council met on Monday, May 19, 2025, in a work session beginning at 4:00 PM followed by a regular session at 7:00 PM in the City Council Chambers, 707 W. Acequia. Present were Mayor Brett Taylor, Vice Mayor Liz Wynn, Council Members Steve Nelsen, Emmanuel Hernandez Soto, and Brian Poochigian. The work session covered downtown business improvement district annual reports, a massage establishment ordinance update, and a California Water Service presentation. The regular session included recognitions, a consent calendar, and presentations on three major street projects. The work session adjourned at 5:33 PM with no closed session scheduled, and the regular session adjourned at 7:58 PM. Work Session: Downtown Visalia Property and Business Improvement District Annual Report - Council Member Steve Nelsen stepped down from the dais and presented the Downtown Visalia Property and Business Improvement District (DTVPBID) report. The district has approximately 270 property owners and a 2025 budget of $723,000. No assessment increase was proposed for the 2026 tax year. Mr. Nelsen reported that from 2020 to current, the CPI increased 24% while PBID assessments rose 32%. The report covered 2024 expenses for security, landscaping, graffiti removal, and a planned $72,000 security upgrade and equipment relocation. - Public comment: April Lancaster praised the decision not to increase assessments and requested that surplus funds of about $600,000 be used to restore benches on Main Street for elderly residents and downtown visitors. - Vote: Motion by Council Member Poochigian, seconded by Council Member Hernandez Soto, to accept the report carried 4-0; Council Member Nelsen abstained. Work Session: Town-Center Business Improvement Area Annual Report and Management Agreement Renewal - Council Member Steve Nelsen also presented the Town-Center Business Improvement Area (TCBIA) report. Downtown Visalians, Inc. (DTV) was formed in 1961 and has approximately 780 business license holders or members. The 2025 budget is $667,000. Reported highlights included social media growth of more than 80,000 Instagram accounts reached and 1,512 new followers in the past 90 days, plus $65,000 in premier sponsor contributions. - Public comment: April Lancaster, identifying herself as a business owner and market director, raised concerns about financial oversight. She stated that DTV exceeded administration expenses by over $69,000 and office expenses by more than $27,000, totaling $136,000 in overages across categories. She said administrative expenses were 48.7% of total budget, compared with a typical nonprofit/PBID benchmark of 15-25%. She also reported a discrepancy between DTV and the property owners association: DTV reported receiving over $253,000 from the POA while the POA reported only $198,000, a gap of more than $55,000. She said nearly a quarter of the POA funding comes from the city's general fund and asked for reconciled reporting, citing conflict-of-interest concerns because a sitting council member oversees both organizations. - Staff response: Assistant Finance Director Melody Murch said much of DTV's reported revenue is outside city oversight, that the city passes through roughly $200,000 per year to DTV, and that the discrepancies may stem from timing or accrual differences between two sets of books kept by different accountants. She said reconciliation is not currently required by the governing laws. - Vote: Motion by Council Member Poochigian, seconded by Vice Mayor Wynn, to accept the annual report and renew the management agreement with Downtown Visalians, Inc. for an additional one-year term beginning July 1, 2025 carried 4-0; Council Member Nelsen abstained. Discussion: Massage Establishment Ordinance Update - Neighborhood Preservation Manager Tracy Robertshaw and Planning and Community Preservation Director Paul Bernal presented proposed revisions to Visalia Municipal Code Chapter 5.68. They reported that proactive inspections from May through September found 60 inspections, 29 businesses in violation, and 11 businesses not allowed to reopen after conditional use permit or business tax revocations. - Proposed changes include expanding definitions, adding penal codes such as human trafficking, removing the five-year prior-history limit, strengthening the application and background check process, incorporating emergency ordinance requirements, adding inspection notification language, streamlining revocation and appeals, and requiring conditional use permits in regional commercial zones. Staff also recommended removing the 750-foot separation requirement, which had created barriers for legitimate businesses, including in the Sierra Bank building and shared salon spaces. - Public comment: Cindy Rawl, a massage therapist of 19 years, thanked the Council for removing the 750-foot separation requirement and raised questions about annual permits, ID badges, and landlord notarization. Staff responded that the application would be a one-time process, not annual, and that ID badges are an industry standard to verify licensed practitioners. - Vote: Motion by Council Member Hernandez Soto, seconded by Council Member Nelsen, directing staff to begin drafting revisions to Chapter 5.68 carried 5-0. Presentation: California Water Service State Water Compliance Plan - California Water Service District Manager Steven Johnson and Director of Government and Community Affairs Kevin McCusker presented the company's plan for complying with state indoor and outdoor water use regulations. From 2004 to 2023, Visalia's population increased 35% while total water production declined 14%. Cal Water reported system water loss of about 5.9 gallons per connection per day. The state indoor residential standard has dropped from 55 to 47 gallons per person per day and is scheduled to fall to 42 by 2030. Cal Water's current urban water use objective, including water loss, was 128.9 versus actual performance of 117.3. - The presentation covered commercial, industrial, and institutional (CII) performance measures, a compliance filing with an annual program cost estimate of about $2.4 million, and conservation programs including lawn-to-garden turf replacement, smart irrigation controllers, smart landscape tune-ups, high-efficiency fixtures, leak detection, and free hose nozzles. Cal Water noted that synthetic turf is not eligible for rebates and cited PFAS concerns. PFOS treatment systems for contaminated wells were reported to be coming online that month. - Council members discussed tiered rate structures, household size adjustments, assistance for seniors and disabled residents, enforcement responsibilities and costs, and potential changes to state mandates. Cal Water stated it is not currently equipped to take on enforcement but remains open to partnership discussions with the city. No action was taken on this item. Regular Session: Recognitions and General Public Comments - Tricia Dean was recognized as the winner of the 2025 Summer Live & Play Cover Photo Contest. The Council also proclaimed National Public Works Week, May 18-24, 2025, marking the 65th annual observance. - General public comment included Mark Fullner, who expressed support for Cal Water's long history of service; Sherrie Bakke with Visit Visalia, who reported that Tulare County tourism spending reached $626.2 million in 2024, a 7.5% increase over 2023, with tourism tax revenue of $24.4 million up 10.3% and tourism saving Tulare County homeowners nearly $400 per year; Steven Johnson, Cal Water's district manager, who thanked the community; and Daniel Sepulveda, District Representative for Congressman Jim Costa, who offered his office as a resource for residents navigating federal agencies. Consent Calendar - The Consent Calendar was approved 5-0 with no items pulled. It included authorization to read ordinances by title only; acceptance and appropriation of $3,103,963 in Encampment Resolution Funding Round 3 Window 3 for the Visalia Navigation Center and Sequoia Village; a one-year aquatics facility joint use agreement with Visalia Unified School District and acceptance of VUSD sponsorship for swim team registration fees; renewal of the Environmental Clean-Up Opportunities Transitional Jobs Program for three years through Fiscal Year 2027/2028 in the amount of $765,960 from the Solid Waste Enterprise Fund; Resolution No. 2025-35 exchanging federal funds for State Highway Account funds and appropriating $930,390 toward the Giddings Street Culvert Replacement Project; Measure N funding and contract amendment for the Visalia Police Department's body-worn camera program; a $39,340 sole source purchase order to APGN, Inc. for a Membrane Bioreactor Blower; a sole source purchase order to ZeroNox Inc. for Tuatara UTV electric vehicles in an amount not to exceed $138,539; Resolution No. 2025-34 approving the Fiscal Year 2024/2025 Transportation Development Act Claim of $11,863,821.86; and award of the Fiscal Year 2024/2025 Cape Seal Project contract to VSS International, Inc. in the amount of $1,698,325. Traffic and Construction Project Updates - Riggin Avenue Widening Project (Kelsey Street to Shirk Street): Senior Civil Engineer Diego Corvera presented. The approximately $8.1 million project, including $4 million in federal Economic Development Administration funding, will widen the roadway from two to four lanes, add medians, bike lanes, lighting, storm drainage, and intersection safety improvements. Construction is scheduled from mid-to-late June 2025 through December 2025 or January 2026, with east-west traffic maintained throughout. Outreach will include mailers, press releases, social media, and text alerts. No public comments were offered. Motion carried 5-0. - Tulare Avenue Major Road Rehabilitation Project (Demaree to Cotta): Associate Engineer Jonathan Frausto presented. The $5.2 million project will occur in three phases from mid-June 2025 through January 2026 and includes full-depth road rehabilitation, 88 ADA ramp upgrades, traffic signal modifications, and protected class IV bike lanes with cycle lane separators. Side street closures and detours will be posted while maintaining east-west access. A Spanish interpreter was present. Public comments included Maria Guillen asking about notification of College of the Sequoias; Efrain Becerra asking about long-term maintenance and road preservation; and Jim Reeves asking to extend the project to Chinowth and to level manhole covers. Staff responded that COS coordination was underway, the Pavement Management System guides major street rehabilitation, and manholes will be set to finish grade. Motion carried 5-0. - Caldwell Avenue Widening Project (Santa Fe Street to Lovers Lane): Senior Civil Engineer Eric Bons presented. This is the last segment of Caldwell Avenue to be widened from two to four lanes. The project adds buffered bike lanes, a 10-foot pathway connecting the Santa Fe Trail, landscaped medians, storm drain and sewer trunk extension, utility coordination, and traffic signal improvements. Construction began in May 2025 and will run through summer 2026 in three phases, with one major intersection impacted at a time and outreach via message boards, text alerts, and social media. No public comments were offered. Motion carried 5-0. Key Outcomes - Accepted the DTVPBID annual report with no assessment increase for 2026 (4-0, Nelsen abstained). - Accepted the TCBIA annual report and renewed the Downtown Visalians, Inc. management agreement for one year beginning July 1, 2025 (4-0, Nelsen abstained). - Directed staff to draft revisions to Chapter 5.68 of the Visalia Municipal Code on massage establishments (5-0). - Approved the full Consent Calendar (5-0). - Accepted the construction phasing plans and staff presentations for the Riggin Avenue, Tulare Avenue, and Caldwell Avenue projects (5-0 each). - No closed session report was given. The next regular City Council meetings were scheduled for Monday, June 2, 2025, and Monday, June 16, 2025, at 7:00 PM.

Note: The agenda and minutes list the meeting date as May 5, 2025, but the provided metadata indicates May 12, 2025; this summary uses the latter date as instructed. The Visalia City Council held a work session starting at 4:00 PM and a regular session at 7:00 PM on May 12, 2025. The work session included new employee introductions, an education award, a detailed cannabis ordinance discussion seeking council direction, a fire department overview presentation, and a Civic Center Phase 2 project update. The regular session featured an Arbor Day proclamation, public comments, consent calendar approvals (with two items pulled for separate discussion), a public hearing on an appeal of a Historic Preservation Advisory Committee (HPAC) denial of window replacement, and the formal award of the Civic Center Phase 2 construction contract. Key outcomes included a 4-1 vote to overturn the HPAC denial and a unanimous vote to award a $72.78 million construction contract to Seals Construction, appropriating $87.8 million for the project. Consent Calendar - Valley Strong Ballpark Outfield Fence & Batter's Eye Replacement Project (Item 2): Approved unanimously after a staff presentation explaining the batter's eye structure. Contract awarded to Forcum/Mackey Construction, Inc. for $915,000. - Request for Recreational Opportunities (Item 15): Approved 4-1 (Council Member Nelsen opposed) after discussion about pickleball courts, community center upgrades, and the need for a broader recreation report from staff. - All other consent items (14 items) approved unanimously in one motion, including contracts for fire department medical director, housing loan portfolio management, compressed air and lube system maintenance, V-LINE transit grant application, mural request, various park project notices of completion, objective design standards resolution, and more. Public Comments & Testimony - General Public Comment (Regular Session): Five speakers addressed the council: - Raquel Arias criticized the mayor's video promoting Visalia, alleging the administration ignores homelessness and favors developers, and referenced unverified rumors. She urged better leadership. - Irene Lapin criticized former President Trump's policies and his impact on women's issues. - Maria Guillén praised a community event at College of the Sequoias called "Create Over Consume," highlighting sustainable arts and collaboration. - Efrain Becerra offered positive feedback, thanking council members for listening and noting their efforts, including the Cinco de Mayo event hosted by the Tulare Kings Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. - Valerie Girot questioned the name "Hope Team," calling it loaded language, and shared a personal definition of hope. - Work Session Public Comment (Cannabis Ordinance): Louis Sepulveda, a retired investigator, urged the council not to be too restrictive on cannabis zoning, warning that over-regulation encourages the black market. He cited Woodlake as a successful model for revenue and beautification. - Public Hearing (Window Replacement Appeal): Speakers included Irene Lapin (criticizing HPAC as a "clique of meddlesome busybodies"), Efrain Becerra (suggesting the city adopt clearer historic preservation standards), Tyler Davis (HPAC chair, available for questions), and Kevin Fistolera (applicant, who stated the windows are standard and that replacement would improve security and efficiency while maintaining appearance). - Public Hearing (Civic Center Phase 2): Maria Guillén asked about potential cost impacts from tariffs and inflation. Staff responded that the construction bid is fixed and not subject to change due to tariffs. Discussion Items - Cannabis Ordinance Discussion (Work Session): Staff presented a two-part framework. Council provided direction on the following (with some items tabled for future meetings): - Municipal Code Title: Council consensus to place the ordinance in a reserved title (e.g., Title 4, 7, 11, or 14) with medical marijuana delivery moved to that title. - Business Types and Zoning: - Cultivation: Not allowed (unanimous). - Processing: Allowed in light industrial and industrial zones only (no service commercial). - Manufacturing: Allowed in light industrial and industrial zones; volatile solvent manufacturing prohibited. - Distribution: Allowed in light industrial and industrial zones (service commercial removed). - Testing Laboratory: Allowed in business research park (BRP), light industrial, and industrial zones; downtown mixed use excluded. - Retail Storefront: Council expressed interest in allowing up to 3 stores, with hours of operation set at 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Zoning to be defined later with a map; staff to engage with potential operators and bring back recommendations. Non-storefront retail (delivery) also discussed; limits to be considered. - Microbusiness: Tabled pending retail zoning decisions. - Events: Not allowed (council opposed, citing concerns about odor and disruption). - Sensitive Use Buffers: Tabled; staff to return with maps showing 750-foot and 1,000-foot buffers. - Security Measures: Council supported staff recommendations including security cameras (police access without warrant), security personnel during operating hours, age verification, and chain-of-custody protocols for labs. - License Term: Annual renewal aligned with fiscal year (June 30). - Fire Department Overview (Work Session): Battalion Chief Tom Van Grouw and Chief Dan Griswold presented department operations, response data, and community engagement. Key points: - Six fire stations; Station 56 recently opened, ending a lease with Cal Fire. - 57% of suppression personnel have less than 10 years with Visalia Fire, but overall fire service experience is higher due to experienced hires. - Training: 5,753 hours logged in first four months of 2025, on track for over 17,000 hours (exceeding the 240-hour national standard per employee). - 2024 call volume: 17,000+ calls, including 535 fire-related, 9,068 EMS calls, and hazardous conditions/service calls. - Response times average around 5 minutes for most apparatus, but national standards (NFPA 1710) are challenging to meet; staff will develop a realistic local metric. - Community engagement includes fire prevention education (annual visits to 3rd graders), car seat technician program, peer support team, and equipment replacements via grants. - Future reports planned on EMS and prevention divisions. - Civic Center Phase 2 Update (Work Session): Engineer Mike Porter and Finance Director Renee Nagel updated the project: - Project includes new council chambers, public safety administration building, evidence storage building, pavilion, and parking. - Construction documents: 750 sheets of drawings, 2,600 pages of specs. - RFQ process resulted in 7 qualified contractors; 3 bids received. - Low bidder: Seals Construction (Visalia-based) at $72.78 million. - Total estimated project cost: $99.34 million (including 5% contingency). - Funding: $95.1 million available from Civic Center Reserve ($66.2M), Civic Center Impact Fees ($9.4M), Police Impact Fees ($3.5M), Fire Impact Fees ($6.0M), and ARPA funds ($9.8M). Request to appropriate $87.8 million, leaving $7.3 million for contingencies or phase 3 design. - Schedule: Construction start July 2025, completion June 2027, move-in October 2027. Key Outcomes - Cannabis Ordinance Direction: Council provided initial direction on business types, zoning, hours, security, and license terms; staff to return with detailed maps for retail zoning and buffer zones, and to engage community stakeholders. - Fire Department Overview: Received and filed; no formal action. - Civic Center Phase 2 Update: Received; formal action taken during regular session (see below). - Appeal of HPAC Denial (Window Replacement at 410 N Court St): Council voted 4-1 (Council Member Hernandez Soto opposed) to overturn the HPAC denial and approve the appeal, allowing replacement of 48 wood windows with vinyl windows of same size, with wood screens to maintain appearance. - Civic Center Phase 2 Contract Award: Motion carried unanimously (5-0) to authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with Seals Construction for $72,780,000 and appropriate $87.8 million from the specified funds for the $99.34 million project. - Consent Calendar (Item 2 - Ballpark Fence): Approved unanimously. - Consent Calendar (Item 15 - Recreational Opportunities): Approved 4-1 (Council Member Nelsen opposed). Staff to return in June with a report on short-term recreation projects. - Closed Session: No reportable actions.

Note: The supplied minutes and transcript state the meeting occurred on Monday, April 21, 2025; however, the date assigned for this summary is April 23, 2025. The meeting opened with a 4:00 PM work session, recessed to closed session at 5:56 PM, and reconvened for the regular session at 7:00 PM, adjourning at 8:28 PM at Visalia City Council Chambers, 707 W. Acequia. Present were Mayor Brett Taylor, Vice Mayor Liz Wynn (arrived at 4:06 PM), and Council Members Steve Nelsen, Emmanuel Hernandez Soto, and Brian Poochigian. Opening, Invocation, and Recognition - The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Council Member Poochigian, followed by an invocation by Priest Jarnail Singh of Gurduwara Singh Sabha of Tulare County. - The Council presented a proclamation recognizing April 2025 as Sikh Heritage Month in Visalia and honoring the Sikh American community's Vaisakhi celebration. Work Session: New Employee Introductions - Parks and Facilities Manager Alvin Diaz introduced new Recreation Department employees: Scott Pyle (Lead Park Maintenance Worker), Eduardo Valdespino (Lead Park Maintenance Worker), and a third employee. The minutes list Chris Godinez as Lead Custodial Service Worker, while the transcript identifies Chris Maines as a landscape/irrigation technician. Work Session: Draft City Council Workshop Priorities and Goals - City Manager Leslie Caviglia presented the 2025 Workplan and proposed Council priorities and goals across four areas: Growth and Infrastructure, Business, Quality of Life, and Governance. - Council members requested revisions including stronger road/pavement maintenance language, a more aggressive posture toward Tulare County regarding development in the city's sphere of influence, explicit protection of the sphere of influence, modernized public communication, bureaucracy reduction, and aggressive collaboration on Highway 198/Mooney Boulevard issues. - City Manager noted the city would return with final goals, provide an update in about four months, and bring back a surplus funds/one-time monies policy before June. - Motion by Council Member Nelsen, seconded by Council Member Poochigian, to approve with Council revisions carried 5-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Work session speakers MaryJo Estes, Joyce Reeves, and Joanne Chamberlain urged the Council to use surplus funds to add 16 pickleball courts at Plaza Park, resurface existing pickleball and tennis courts, and cited strong demand, including roughly 300 participants at the most recent senior games and sold-out or wait-listed scrambles. - Sherrie Bakke of Visit Visalia encouraged the Council to shift strategic goal language from hospitality to tourism, saying tourism is the economic engine and citing Visit Visalia/CVB research. - Irene Lapin criticized former President Trump and MAGA supporters over January 6 pardons and asked how they reconcile those views with support for local police. - Greg Collins asked whether an aquatic complex was included in the priorities and later spoke on the zoning item, urging Council members to drive through neighborhoods, stating that a three-foot front porch is not usable, and advocating for building neighborhoods rather than subdivisions. Consent Calendar - Motion by Council Member Poochigian, seconded by Council Member Nelsen; approved 5-0. Items included: - Authorization to read ordinances by title only. - Tulare Avenue Major Road Rehabilitation (Demaree to Cotta): contract to Yarbs Grading & Paving for $5,202,396; $400,000 transfer within RMRA (SB 1) Fund; additional appropriation of $3,065,000 from RMRA (SB 1) Fund. - One-year on-call civil engineering services contract (four optional one-year extensions) with Peters Engineering Group, 4 Creeks, Inc., Provost & Pritchard Consulting Group, TRC Engineers, Inc., Lane Engineers, Inc., and CWE; each contract up to $500,000 annually without further Council authorization. - Riggin Avenue widening (Kelsey St. to Shirk St.): contract to Agee Construction Corporation for $8,098,281; Measure R fund transfer and supplemental agreement amendments. - Geotechnical material testing with Krazan & Associates for Tulare Avenue project for $72,500. - Traffic signal poles purchase from Jam Services Inc. for $105,462 for Riggin Ave./Shirk St. intersection. - Construction management services with 4 Creeks, Inc. for Tulare Avenue project for $420,000. - FY 24-25 Reclamite Project contract to Talley Oil for $1,284,747.34. - Grant application for Independence Spectacular community event through San Joaquin Valley Air District Clean Alternative to Fireworks program. - Conditional authorization for Stripe to provide microtransit credit card payment processing for one year with up to four one-year renewals and up to $30,000 annually. Discussion Items Regular Item: FY 2025/26-2029/30 Consolidated Plan and FY 2025/26 Action Plan - Housing Specialist Margie Perez presented the HUD Consolidated Plan and Annual Action Plan. Total planned resources included approximately $6.7 million in CDBG and approximately $3 million in HOME funds over five years. The plan proposed 20% administrative use for CDBG and the 15% public-services cap ($180,000 per year). Priorities included affordable housing, homelessness prevention, home repairs, job training, senior housing, emergency shelter development, ADA improvements, code enforcement, and park improvements. - Public hearing opened at 7:28 PM; no public comment; closed at 7:29 PM. - Motion by Vice Mayor Wynn, seconded by Council Member Nelsen; approved 5-0. Regular Item: Annexation and General Plan Amendment — Riverway Dog Park Project - Assistant Planner Colleen Moreno presented the proposal to annex two parcels totaling 10.4 acres at the northwest corner of North Dinuba Boulevard and West Riverway Court, expand the Urban Development Growth Boundary, and change approximately 0.25 acre from Residential Very Low Density to Parks/Recreation. The project includes a 1.25-acre fenced dog park, St. Johns River Trail connectivity, and an improved overflow parking lot with lighting and EV charging stations. - Public hearing opened at 7:39 PM; one speaker, Justin Saehon, asked about notices received by nearby homeowners. Staff clarified that only the two project parcels are being annexed and no homes are included. The hearing closed at 7:42 PM. Staff also confirmed no speed bumps are planned on the exit-only lane and that the parking lot would not be fenced. - Motion by Council Member Poochigian, seconded by Council Member Hernandez Soto; approved 5-0. Regular Item: Zoning Text Amendment No. 2024-03 — Single-Family Residential Objective Design Standards - Planning Director Paul Bernal and consultant Brenton Givens of Mintier Harnish presented the ordinance to add Single-Family Residential Objective Design Standards (ODS) and Planned Residential Development (PRD) standards citywide. Developer roundtable sessions involved roughly 30 participants; a revised draft was released March 14-31, 2025, adding flexibility and an exception process through the Planning Commission. - Public hearing opened at 8:00 PM; Greg Collins spoke; hearing closed at 8:04 PM. - Council discussion focused on housing affordability, construction costs, design flexibility, and open space. Council Member Hernandez Soto proposed exempting nonprofit/deed-restricted very low- and low-income projects and suggested increasing the required optional design criteria from three to six; neither change was adopted. - Vice Mayor Wynn moved to adopt the standards by resolution rather than ordinance, allowing future changes without multiple public hearings. City Attorney Ken Richardson clarified the resolution would be brought back at a future meeting on the consent calendar because it was not in the current packet. The motion, seconded by Council Member Nelsen, carried 3-2 with Council Members Poochigian and Taylor voting no. Regular Item: Land Use License with Downtown Visalians - Public Works Director Nick Bartsch presented a one-year land use license with two additional one-year renewal terms for Downtown Visalians to store a container, two vehicles, and a trailer at 701 E. Race Avenue. The property is city-owned, also houses the Visalia Warming Center, and the short-term license is due to uncertain long-term use from civic center redevelopment. - Public hearing opened at 8:27 PM; no comments; closed at 8:28 PM. Council Member Nelsen announced he would abstain. - Motion by Council Member Hernandez Soto, seconded by Vice Mayor Wynn; approved 4-0-1 (Nelsen abstaining). Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar approved 5-0. - FY 2025/26-2029/30 Consolidated Plan and FY 2025/26 Action Plan adopted 5-0. - Annexation No. 2024-04, General Plan Amendment No. 2024-05, and related resolutions approved 5-0. - Single-Family Residential ODS and PRD standards approved by resolution 3-2; staff will return with the resolution on a future consent calendar. - Downtown Visalians land use license approved 4-0-1. - Closed session report: nothing to report. - Next regular City Council meetings are scheduled for Monday, May 5, 2025, and Monday, May 19, 2025, at 7:00 PM.

The Visalia City Council held a work session at 4:30 PM and a regular session at 7:00 PM on Monday, April 7, 2025, in the City Council Chambers. The meeting included introduction of new employees, a mid-year financial review, approval of a consent calendar, and three regular agenda items: the Mobile Home Park Standardized Lease Program, the Five-Year Consolidated Plan for HUD grants, and a public hearing to abandon a portion of public street right-of-way. All votes were 5-0. Work Session: New Employee Introductions Police Chief Salazar introduced six new police department staff: Liliana Magaña (Records Specialist Supervisor), Martha Berrones (Records Specialist), Thania Lerma, Stacie Lohse, Theo May (Communications Operators), and Michael O’Neill (Police Officer lateral). Fire Department introduced Randy Rodriguez (Fire Prevention Inspector). Public Works introduced Lazaro Torres and Jorge Castro Portillo (Solid Waste Operators) and Luis Cedano (Traffic Signal Technician). Work Session: Mid-Year Financial Report (Item 2) Finance Director Renee Nagel presented the fiscal year 2024/25 mid-year report. Key points: the adopted budget was approximately $300 million. General fund revenues are projected at a surplus of $5.4 million after recommended appropriations. Sales tax is projected to be flat (0% growth) compared to last year, while property tax is up 10%. The city maintains a 30% emergency reserve policy. Staff requested appropriations: $613,300 for general fund capital projects, $308,000 for vehicle replacement, $35,000 for fleet maintenance, and $546,000 for convention center capital projects. Council discussed vehicle maintenance and deferred capital needs. The motion to approve the appropriations passed 5-0. Public Comments & Testimony (Regular Session) - A resident criticized the city’s website and the police department’s encryption of radio channels, asking for the primary channel to remain unencrypted. - Irene Lapin (spelled L-A-P-I-N) commented on national politics and urged the council to consider the impact of federal layoffs on homelessness in Visalia. - A representative of Visalia Pickleball praised the Senior Games organization and requested more pickleball courts, suggesting conversion of tennis courts at Plaza Park. - Evrain Becerra thanked the mayor and council for their service and community events. Consent Calendar Routine items approved in one motion 5-0, including: authorization to read ordinances by title only; increase in Change Order Committee approval limits; property abatement contract ($210,000 annually); acceptance of SJVAPCD grant for electric solid waste truck; notices of completion for Parkway Widening and Park Picnic Table Replacement; recording of final maps for Pratt Family Ranch (Phases 1A,1B,1C,1D) and River Run Ranch (Phases 6&7); second reading of Ordinance 2025-02 for Shirk & Riggin Industrial Park development agreement; payment to National Fish and Wildlife Foundation ($121,000); purchase of two CNG solid waste trucks ($962,748) and a John Deere tractor ($134,438); sewer repair contract ($1,286,950); biosolids hauling contract ($170,000/year); and General Plan Annual Progress Report. - Councilmember Nelson pulled Item 4 (acceptance of SJVAPCD grant) for discussion. Staff clarified that accepting the grant does not commit to purchasing an electric truck; the purchase would come back to council. The item was approved 5-0. Mobile Home Park Standardized Lease Program (Item 1) City Attorney Jim Coons and Housing Specialist Margie Prez presented the 2025 renewal of the program. Key changes: a process for residents to request future rent rates upon sale of their home, and a provision for surviving spouses to assume the lease. Public comment: a park manager expressed concern about capital improvement pass-through charges; a resident praised the program for keeping rent increases low. Council approved the 2025 Standardized Lease Program Agreement and Model Lease, including a request from one park to report spaces subject to the MOU separately. Vote 5-0. Draft 2025/26-2029/30 Consolidated Plan and 2025/26 Annual Action Plan (Item 2) Margie Prez and consultant Mary Itz presented the five-year plan for CDBG and HOME funds. Top community needs identified via surveys: affordable housing, homeless prevention, emergency shelter, home repair, and job training. Proposed five-year activities: $2.5 million CDBG and $3 million HOME funds, including senior affordable housing, rental assistance, and a tree well project. A public hearing was held; one resident asked about accessing survey results and the opportunity to comment at the next meeting. Council accepted the draft documents and continued the 30-day public comment period. Vote 5-0. Public Hearing: Abandonment of Public Street Right-of-Way (Item 3) Public Works staff presented a proposal to vacate a portion of Meadow Avenue and an alleyway west of Mooney Boulevard for the College of the Sequoias expansion. After publication and notice, no public comments were received. Council adopted Resolution 2025-26 ordering the closure and vacation. Vote 5-0. Key Outcomes - All consent calendar items (18 items) approved 5-0, with Item 4 discussed individually and approved. - Mid-year appropriations totaling approximately $1.5 million across funds approved 5-0. - Mobile Home Park Standardized Lease Program 2025 renewal approved 5-0. - Draft Consolidated Plan and Annual Action Plan accepted; public comment period continues through April 21, 2025; adoption scheduled for April 21, 2025. - Street right-of-way abandonment resolution adopted 5-0. - No report from closed session. - Next meeting: Monday, April 21, 2025 at 7:00 PM.