City Council/Successor Agency/Public Finance Authority

CITY OF AVENAL “Pistachio Capital of the World®” REGULAR CITY COUNCIL/SUCCESSOR AGENCY/PFA MEETING MARCH 27, 2025, 5:15 P.M. AVENAL THEATER & EVENT CENTER, 233 E. KINGS ST., AVENAL, CA VIA ZOOM VIDEO/WEB CONFERENCING: Web Link: bit.ly/AvenalCouncil or use https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87243440488 Or by calling +1 669 900 6833 and use meeting ID 872 4344 0488 to join. MINUTES CALL TO ORDER & PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: by Mayor Preciado at 5:21 pm ROLL CALL: Councilman Ricardo Verdugo, David Reynosa, Pablo Hernandez, Mayor Pro, Tem M. Leticia Gamez; Mayor, Alvaro Preciado. ABSENT: None STAFF: López, Ortiz, Price, Curiel, Bermudez, Davis, Velasco. LEGAL COUNSEL: Moses Diaz. CITY CLERK: Government Code Section 54952.3: The members of the City Council/Successor Agency are entitled to receive a total of $450.00 per month because of being elected to the City Council. They receive no other compensation for sitting as a member of Successor Agency. PUBLIC COMMENT/ANNOUNCEMENTS & UNSCHEDULED APPEARANCES: Any person may directly address the Council/Agency at this time on any item on the agenda or on any other items of interest to the public that is within the subject matter jurisdiction of the City Council/Successor Agency. State Law prohibits any member of the Council/Agency from commenting on or acting on matters not on the agenda. Three (3) minutes are allowed per person. The City Manager presented information provided by Fire Marshall Blake Adney regarding the redesignation of the Fire Hazard Severity Zone. Portions of Kings County have been reclassified as "high" severity areas. The Council is encouraged to adopt a resolution acknowledging the updated map, which designates Avenal within a High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. Public comment was closed by Mayor Preciado at 5:27 p.m. Public comment was reopened at 5:50 p.m. Mike, Volunteer Coach of Avenal Underdogs Boxing, introduced youth boxers in attendance, explaining they were present to observe local government operations. He noted that despite numerous national and state achievements by their athletes, the organization lacks adequate recognition. The group is seeking municipal support and increased community awareness. Isabel, Treasurer of Avenal Underdogs Boxing, reiterated that they brought their athletes to witness local government proceedings and expressed their willingness to participate in community volunteer opportunities. She emphasized their desire for greater recognition of their accomplishments. Mayor Preciado inquired about participant demographics, to which Mike responded they serve individuals aged 6-40 years, with 17 licensed fighters, 2 professional fighters, and 40 total participants. When asked about facility hours, Mike confirmed operations from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Mayor Preciado extended an invitation to participate in the Old Timer's Parade. Mayor Pro Tem Gamez commended the professional quality of their training facility. Mike added that the organization hopes to host tournaments in Avenal in the future. Public comment was closed by Mayor Preciado at 5:58 p.m. CONSENT CALENDAR: All items listed under the consent calendar are routine or for approval only and are enacted by one motion: (Action). A. Consider City of Avenal/Successor Agency’s Approval of Minutes for March 13, 2025. B. Consider Approval to Enter into Interlocal Agreement with City of Hanford for Shared CLETS Line Access Councilmember Verdugo requested Chief Velasco provide additional information regarding CLETS. Mayor Pro Tem Gamez subsequently recommended that Item B be relocated to New Business. Mayor Preciado concurred with this recommendation and formally moved Item B to New Business as Item 9D. Council Member/Successor Agency Member Gamez motioned to approve Item A seconded by Councilman/Successor Agency Member Reynosa, and motion carried. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES: Gamez, Reynosa, Hernandez, Verdugo, Preciado. NOES: None. ABSENT: None. ABSTAIN: None. MAYOR & COUNCIL MEMBER/ SUCCESSOR AGENCY/ ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION: A. Presentación Cultural Líderes Campesinas - Mirna Ortega, Outreach Worker, Líderes Campesinas (Discussion/Action). Cultural Lideres Campesinas provided a presentation as submitted, showcasing examples of products created in their workshops, including artwork on tote bags and mini pillows. Councilmember Hernandez inquired whether the organization conducts outreach in agricultural fields. Mirna explained that they do engage in outreach efforts with prior authorization from the ranch owners or supervisors. Councilmember Verdugo expressed his anticipation of seeing the organization more actively involved in the community. Mayor Preciado emphasized the importance of providing information to all communities and commended the organization's efforts, stating that Avenal residents would greatly benefit from and welcome their resources. Mirna concluded by expressing their eagerness to collaborate further with the community. ACTIVITY REPORTS/SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS & COMMITTEE REPORTS: A. Activity Reports: 1. Police Department Activity Report: Cecilio Velasco, Chief of Police. Chief Velasco presented his report as submitted. Councilmember Reynosa inquired about an incident that occurred the previous day. Chief Velasco reported that there had been a residential shooting, and that the department is pursuing a promising lead. Mayor Preciado noted that a similar incident had taken place in Corcoran around the same time. Chief Velasco assured the Council that the department remains diligent in its investigation. Mayor Preciado also inquired about a fire incident in a residential backyard. Chief Velasco urged the public to refrain from starting illegal fires on their properties, emphasizing the risks they pose to neighboring areas and air quality. He further stated that violations would result in fines. The recess was called at 6:13 PM. The meeting reconvened at 6:27 PM. 2. Community Development Activity Report: Kelsey George, Contract City Planner, 4Creeks. Kelsey George presented her report as submitted.  3. Economic Development & Grant Writing Report: Emily Engelsgaard, Grants Manager, the CrisCom Company. Emily Engelsgaard presented her report as submitted. Mayor Preciado expressed his appreciation that CrisCom successfully met the deadline for a federal grant. B. Special Presentations/Reports: 1. Cal.Net Services Presentation – Adam Sass, Director of Strategic Sales IT Director Humberto Bermudez introduced Adam Sass to present a potential new service for the City. Adam Sass provided his presentation as submitted. Mayor Preciado inquired about the location of the nearest tower. Adam Sass responded that the closest tower is in Coalinga. Councilmember Reynosa asked about pricing. Adam Sass stated that residential plans start at $40 per month and noted that the service does not have a data cap. Mayor Pro Tem Gamez inquired about the infrastructure, asking which tower the service would connect to. Adam Sass explained that Cal Net would establish its own infrastructure, likely installing two towers. Councilmember Verdugo asked whether the company had secured grants for the project to avoid using City funds. Adam Sass responded that they would assist in identifying grant opportunities. City Manager López added that the goal is to ensure uniform access across all City sites while providing services to the community, and Cal Net has been instrumental in making this initiative possible. Mayor Preciado emphasized the importance of moving forward with the project as soon as possible. IT Director Bermudez explained that the search for a dedicated wireless service stemmed from connectivity issues at the Police Department and ongoing reliability concerns with AT&T. Mayor Pro Tem Gamez asked whether other companies had been considered. IT Director Bermudez stated that discussions with AT&T have resumed to explore service improvements, but pricing information has not yet been provided, and their services would be limited to City operations rather than the broader community. He also noted that Spectrum would not be able to meet the City's speed and support requirements. Mayor Preciado added that during a recent conference, he made connections with industry professionals who may help improve the City's infrastructure. PUBLIC HEARING(s): A. General Plan Amendment 2024-01 and Rezone 2024-01 (GPA and RZ) Application and related Environment Finding for two adjoining parcels totaling ±3.05 acres of property located north of Highway 33 and S Seventh Avenue intersection. a. Staff Report Planning Consultant Kelsey George presented on the Amendment and Rezone application. Mayor Pro Tem Gamez inquired about the timeline for the rezone process. City Manager López stated that Council approval is a necessary step in the process. Legal Counsel Moses Diaz provided an overview of the ordinance process. He recommended keeping the public hearing open until the next meeting to allow for the adoption of the ordinance and resolution. Additionally, he suggested waiving both the first and second readings of the ordinance. b. Public Hearing Mayor Preciado opened the Public Hearing at 7:09 PM, and it remained open. c. Action/Resolution RESOLUTION 2025-23: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AVENAL APPROVING GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT (GPA) 2024-01 APPLICATION AND RELATED ENVIORNMENTAL FINDING FINDS THE PROJECT EXEMPT FROM CEQA PURSUANT TO CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15061 (B)(3) AND AMENDS THE LAND USE DESIGNATION FOR THE SUBJECT PROPERTY FROM PUBLIC FACILITY TO COMMUNITY COMMERCIAL FOR TWO ADJOINING PARCELS TOTALING +- 3.05 ACRES OF PROPERTY LOCATED NORTH OF HIGHWAY 33 AND S SEVENTH AVENUE INTERSECTION. Mayor Preciado motioned to waive the first reading and keep the public hearing open until the next council meeting. Mayor Preciado also motioned to adopt Resolution 2025-23, which was seconded by Councilmember Reynosa. The motion carried. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES: Preciado, Reynosa, Gamez, Reynosa, Hernandez. NOES: None. ABSENT: None. ABSTAIN: None. OLD BUSINESS: A. SRO Agreement with RSUSD (Discussion/Action). City Manager López stated that the City remains committed to continuing its collaboration with the school district. He noted that the district assisted with the Confía event, which was attended by Superintendent Ruiz. Additionally, as a Rotary Club member, Superintendent Ruiz will support Old Timers Day by facilitating school participation. Regarding the School Resource Officer (SRO) program, there were no updates from the last meeting. The SRO is scheduled to begin at the high school in the next academic year. It was noted that School Board Member Eddie Maldonado has stepped down, with this information obtained through non official social media. The implications for the school board, including potential appointments or a reelection process, remain unclear. Mayor Preciado requested drafting a letter to the school district to formally propose resuming joint meetings, as had been done in the past. NEW BUSINESS: A. Consider Approval of Agreement with Flock Group Inc. for Citywide ALPR Camera System Funded by COPS Funds (Discussion/Action). Chief Velasco presented his request as submitted and provided additional context by sharing his experience as a homicide investigator in Delano. He explained that implementing new technology significantly improved public safety, making Delano one of the safest cities. He also shared a tentative map outlining the proposed placement of cameras, emphasizing that these cameras would provide actionable leads and serve as a strong deterrent to crime. He gave multiple examples of how Flock cameras have been successfully used in Delano and other cities, highlighting their ability to communicate within law enforcement systems. Councilmember Verdugo noted that he has seen media reports on the effectiveness of Flock cameras and how they have helped improve public safety. Chief Velasco acknowledged that privacy concerns were initially raised in Delano but reassured the council that laws are in place to protect privacy, and law enforcement determines who can access the data. He emphasized that these cameras collect unbiased evidence. Mayor Preciado inquired about the range of each camera. Chief Velasco directed the question to guest Jonathan Paz (FLOCK technician), who responded that the cameras focus on vehicles and can cover approximately one and a half lanes. Mayor Preciado also suggested engaging with neighboring communities to encourage them to adopt the Flock system. He added that if funding is available through COPS grants, the project would be financially feasible. Chief Velasco stated that establishing a secure perimeter would be beneficial and noted that the cameras do not require additional infrastructure. Mayor Pro Tem Gamez asked about the cost and number of cameras. Chief Velasco responded that the pricing covers a two-year period and would provide enough cameras to monitor key exit areas. Mayor Pro Tem Gamez also inquired about the location of Flock's offices. Jonathan Paz stated that their headquarters are in Atlanta, but they have numerous technicians in California to provide support. Mayor Pro Tem Gamez asked whether Flock would supply the poles for the cameras. Chief Velasco confirmed that they would. Mayor Preciado inquired about the timeline for installation. Jonathan Paz explained that the timeline depends on permitting but estimated that installation would take a few months. RESOLUTION 2025-24: APPROVAL OF AGREEMENT WITH FLOCK GROUP INC. FOR CITYWIDE ALPR CAMERA SYSTEM Councilmember Verdugo motioned to approve Resolution 2025-24 and was seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Gamez and motion carried. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES: Verdugo, Gamez, Reynosa, Hernandez, Preciado. NOES: None. ABSENT: None. ABSTAIN: None. B. Review Backyard Chickens Application Process and Adopt Associated Fees (Discussion/Action). City Clerk Maria Ortiz presented the staff report and application as submitted. Mayor Preciado noted that while many residents are interested in having backyard chickens, the cost and regulatory requirements may be a concern. City Manager López clarified that the guidelines provided are recommendations, not requirements, such as the suggested height for coops. He also acknowledged the length of time this process has taken. Legal Counsel Moses Diaz stated that an ordinance is already in place governing backyard chickens. Councilmember Hernandez inquired about the possibility of a payment plan, similar to the structure used for water bills. Councilmember Verdugo commented that if residents are truly interested in keeping chickens, they could save up for the associated costs. City Clerk Ortiz added that since the application process is conducted through OpenGov, residents should be prepared to complete the application in full. Mayor Pro Tem Gamez asked how potential nuisances to neighbors would be addressed. City Manager López explained that mitigation measures include prohibiting roosters and conducting random inspections. Legal Counsel Moses Diaz further noted that civil nuisance laws also apply in cases where backyard chickens cause disturbances. RESOLUTION 2025-25: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AVENAL ADOPTING A BACKYARD CHICKENS APPLICATION PROCESS AMENDING OFFICIAL FEE SCHEDULE TO INCLUDE THREE NEW FEES ASSOCIATED WITH THE BACKYARD CHICKEN ORDINANCE. Councilmember Verdugo motioned to approve Resolution 2025-25 and seconded by Councilmember Reynosa and motion carried. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES: Verdugo, Reynosa, Gamez, Hernandez, Preciado. NOES: None. ABSENT: None. ABSTAIN: None. C. Review and Authorize Submission of the 2024 Housing Element Annual Progress Report (Discussion/Action). Kelsey George presented the report as submitted. Mayor Preciado asked whether detached single-family homes are considered Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). Kelsey clarified that they are not. RESOLUTION 2025-26: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY AVENAL AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER OR HIS OR HER DESIGNEE TO SUBMIT THE HOUSING ELEMENT ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT FOR THE 2024 CALENDAR YEAR. Councilmember Verdugo motioned to approve Resolution 2025-26, Councilmember Reynosa seconded and motion carried. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES: Verdugo, Reynosa, Gamez, Hernandez, Preciado. NOES: None. ABSENT: None. D. Consider Approval to Enter into Interlocal Agreement with City of Hanford for Shared CLETS Line Access Chief Velasco presented his report as submitted. He emphasized that approving the new system would enhance efficiency within the department, as the current system requires officers to rely on pen and paper, which is not ideal. Legal Counsel Moses Diaz noted that he previously represented Corcoran in a similar agreement, and his law partner assisted Avenal, potentially creating a conflict of interest. By approving this agreement, the Council would effectively be waiving that conflict. He also clarified that the agreement is a cost-sharing arrangement, which appears to be equitable. He stated that he wanted the Council to be fully informed before proceeding. RESOLUTION 2025-22: AUTHORIZING THE CITY OF AVENAL TO ENTER INTO AN INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT FOR SHARED CLETS LINE ACCESS. Mayor Pro Tem Gamez motioned to approve Resolution 2025-22, Councilmember Verdugo seconded and motion carried. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES: Gamez, Verdugo, Reynosa, Hernandez, Preciado. NOES: None. ABSENT: None. ABSTAIN: None. CORRESPONDENCE/ANNOUNCEMENTS/CLOSING COMMENTS: Any Council member may request an item be placed on a future agenda, provided that a simple majority also support adding said item. Discussion or action on any item not on the current agenda is strictly prohibited. Closing comments are intended for Council members to report attendance of any special events and pertinent information back to the public.  Upcoming/Future Agenda Items to Consider.  Correspondence/Announcements/Information/Closing Comments. The City Clerk stated that Form 700 submissions are still needed by tomorrow. City Manager López reminded the Council that City offices will be closed on Monday and proposed hosting a grand opening for the Kids Pocket Park. He mentioned that A&M would sponsor food, and the event could include a mini block party. Potential dates discussed were April 9, April 16, April 5 (Saturday), or April 12 (Saturday). Public Works Director Scott Davis noted that the shading structures would be completed in three to four weeks. After discussion, the Council decided to schedule the Kids Pocket Park grand opening for April 16 at 3:00 PM. Councilmember Reynosa thanked the Underdog Boxing Club for their participation and emphasized the importance of supporting other community organizations. Councilmember Verdugo noted that anyone using City facilities, such as the Veteran’s Hall, must have insurance. He suggested that access should be restricted or denied to those who do not comply. Mayor Preciado congratulated the former Public Works Director on his service and thanked staff for organizing a successful retirement celebration. He also shared that he attended multiple meetings and networked with representatives from Confía in Fresno. A recess was called at 8:54 PM. The meeting reconvened at 9:02 PM and went into closed session. CLOSED SESSION: (City/Successor Agency): It is the intent of this governing body to meet in closed session to review its position and to instruct its designated representatives: Any person may directly address the Council/Agency at this time on items of interest regarding Closed Session. A. Personnel (Government Code §54957(b)). Consider Public Employee Performance Evaluation for the Position of:  City Manager B. Conference with Real Property Negotiator(s) (Government Code § 54956.8). It is the intent of this governing body to meet in Closed Session to confer with its real property negotiator(s) concerning the purchase, sale, exchange, or lease of real property by or for this agency as follows: 1. Property Description: APN: 040-320-009-000; & 040-320-014-000 Negotiator(s): City Manager/City Attorney. Party with whom negotiating: CrisCom Company. Instructions to negotiator concerning: Terms of Payment. Council came out of Closed Session at 10:57 P.M. with nothing to report and meeting was adjourned. ADJOURNMENT: 1. In compliance with the Americans with Disability Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact the City Clerk’s Office (559) 386-5766. Avenal Theater & Event Center, 233 East Kings Street Avenal, CA 93204. Notification 48 hours prior to the meeting will enable the city to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting [28 CFR 35.02.35.1044 AA Title II]. 2. Materials related to an item on this Agenda submitted to the [Council/ Authority] after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection in the [City Clerks] office at 919 Skyline Blvd., Avenal, CA 93204 during normal business hours. I certify this Agenda of the City of Avenal City Council workshop is to be posted at the following locations: 1) City Council Chambers, Avenal Theater 233 E. Kings St.; 2) City Hall 919 Skyline Blvd.; 3) Avenal Lumber, 600 Skyline Blvd.; and 4) T&T Market, 801 Skyline Blvd. Avenal CA 93204 on, March 24, 2025. __ /s/ Karla Curiel Karla Curiel, Deputy City Clerk