City Council Meeting

CITY OF LOS BANOS CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES MAY 7, 2025 ACTION MINUTES – These minutes are prepared to depict action taken for agenda items presented to the City Council. For detail of this meeting refer to the electronic media (CD and/or audio) kept as a permanent record. CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Amabile called the City Council Meeting to order at the hour of 6:02 p.m. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Police Chief Reyna led the pledge of allegiance. ROLL CALL – MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL PRESENT: Council Members Evan Sanders – District 2, Marcus Chavez – District 3, Deborah Lewis – District 4, Mayor Michael Amabile, District 1 – vacant; ABSENT: None STAFF MEMBERS PRESENT: City Attorney Vaughn, Interim City Manager Brizzee, City Clerk/Human Resources Director Mallonee, Police Chief Reyna, Community & Economic Development Director Souza Elms, Parks & Recreation Director Heim, Fire Chief Tualla, Public Works Director/City Engineer Bergson, Finance Director Moreno CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF AGENDA: Motion by Lewis, seconded by Chavez to approve the agenda as submitted. The motion carried by the affirmative action of all Council Members present. PRESENTATIONS: PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER; PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING LOS BANOS POLICE EXPLORER POST #864; PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING THE 56TH ANNUAL PROFESSIONAL MUNICIPAL CLERKS WEEK; CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION – EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH FOR APRIL 2025 – ALEXANDER VALDEZ, COMMUNITY SERVICES OFFICER, POLICE DEPARTMENT. Mayor Amabile presented the National Day of Prayer Proclamation to Pastors Steve Hammond & Mike Neu; the members of the Los Banos Police Explorers accepted their proclamation; and City Clerk Lucy Mallonee accepted the Proclamation Recognizing the 56th Annual Professional Municipal Clerks Week. PUBLIC FORUM: MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC MAY ADDRESS THE CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS ON ANY ITEM OF PUBLIC INTEREST THAT IS WITHIN THE JURISDICTION OF THE CITY; INCLUDES AGENDA AND NON-AGENDA ITEMS. NO ACTION WILL BE TAKEN ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS. SPEAKERS ARE LIMITED TO A FIVE (5) MINUTE PRESENTATION. DETAILED GUIDELINES ARE POSTED ON THE COUNCIL CHAMBER INFORMATIONAL TABLE. Mayor Amabile invited the public to come forward to speak. UNNAMED PERSON, addressed Item 10 on the agenda and requested that it be pulled for a 60-day pause to allow time for further review and examination of financial records. The speaker expressed concern that despite having been on the council for five months, they have not had adequate access to financial records. She noted that some bills have not been paid and questioned whether the city has sufficient funds to meet its obligations. The speaker criticized the use of property owner funds to support city entertainment events, requesting profit statements and a list of expenses for transparency. She pointed out ongoing issues such as broken windows and graffiti that remain unaddressed, and raised concerns about payments to Civitas, delays from the city’s accountants, and unclear reporting on salaries. She questioned what specific improvements will be made with the $16,000 mentioned in the budget and concluded by stating that whoever is managing the money is not managing. INIAS BROWN, expressed concern that downtown businesses are struggling and stated that it is painful to witness the ongoing difficulties faced by local establishments. He remarked that he is uncertain about what plans the city has to provide support and urged the council to take action to help revitalize the area. He also requested that the mayor and council research Casasarra following the adjournment of the meeting. The speaker referenced Dr. Kia Pruitt, noting that she has been discussing this topic for several years on platforms such as YouTube and Rumble. SHAWN GEORGE, spoke in regard to Item 10, emphasizing the importance of accountability and transparency in funding decisions. He referenced the balance sheets that had been provided, noting concerns about what they reveal. He urged the council to reconsider Item 10, requesting that the matter be delayed to allow the public more time to review the information before any decision is made. The speaker expressed disappointment, stating that he is not seeing the outcomes that were originally promised when the initiative was first introduced. FRANK L. VIERRA, JR., property owner, spoke regarding Item 10, expressing strong disappointment and frustration with the lack of visible improvements. He stated that he has been opposed to this initiative since day one and remains against it. He criticized the decision to raise rates despite ongoing concerns and argued that any such decision should be voted on by the people who actually pay the taxes. He voiced opposition to the proposed extension of the initiative to 2034, urging the council to instead focus on supporting those who are invested in the community. The speaker also noted that four local businesses are closing, which he sees as a sign that the city is losing people, not gaining them. CAROLYN VIERRA, finally able to attend a PBID meeting and provided remarks on what was discussed. She noted that meeting minutes were reviewed, and it was explained that any interested individual must formally apply to be involved. She expressed that she was pleased to see Deborah appointed to the PBID, but raised concerns about the lack of transparency and consistency, stating that she has a scheduling conflict and doesn’t even know when the meetings are held, as they are not scheduled regularly. UNNAMED PERSON, speaking to item 10, stated that through FOIA (Freedom of Information Act) requests, they have been seeking detailed records of specific PBID expenditures, not just QuickBooks summaries. He emphasized the need to review full accounting records of the PBID from its inception in order to properly evaluate its effectiveness before any vote on approval. He noted that he has been requesting these records since the beginning and highlighted a concern regarding the Oddfellows property, which is being assessed additional fees due to a parking lot that is used by the city. He added that the Oddfellows had submitted a letter requesting the assessment be waived. UNNAMED PERSON stated that he believes a comprehensive forensic audit of the city’s finances should be conducted, not limited to ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) funds, but also including the PBID and all other city funds to ensure full transparency and accountability. MARIBEL GARCIA, Los Banos Downtown Association, Maribel Garcia, representing the Los Banos Downtown Association, sincerely apologized for her absence, explaining that she experienced a family tragedy. She thanked the community for their support and shared that the association is now preparing for the upcoming Farmers Market, offering a special thank you to Morning Star for their sponsorship. Maribel expressed disappointment that only those opposed to the PBID chose to speak at the meeting and noted that their comments did not reflect all the work the PBID has accomplished. She highlighted efforts such as power washing, tree trimming, the installation of flower pots, the gateway sign, and numerous events hosted downtown last year. She pointed out that while PBID meetings have been held, very few people attend, despite the fact that financial information has been presented openly. Maribel shared that she has been belittled by some individuals but feels the PBID has operated transparently and has already been audited by the city. She also mentioned that this was the first day she received a records request from Elaine Corey. Maribel expressed her hope that the PBID will continue, stating that although it began as a trial, it has produced visible improvements. She mentioned upcoming additions such as new security cameras, blooming flower pots, and new board members. She closed by thanking the city for its continued support in helping to improve and celebrate downtown. MIKE NEU resident living near Willmott spoke about the urgent need for repaving Willmott Avenue, noting that the road is way overdue for maintenance. He described how truck grooves have formed on both sides of the street from Mercey Springs to Johnson Road, making the road condition poor and concerning. He requested that someone review the current state of Willmott Avenue and consider moving its repaving up on the city’s maintenance schedule. City Clerk Mallonee stated that there is one (1) comment to be read into the record regarding the mobile food vendor item on the agenda and Mayor Amabile stated that that comment will be read during that item. No one else came forward to speak and the public forum was closed. CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA. Motion by Chavez, seconded by Sanders to approve the consent agenda as follows: Check Register for #250995 – #251447 in the Amount of $2,493,611.13; Measure H Citizens’ Oversight Committee Report; Measure P Oversight Committee Report; City Council Resolution No. 6923 – Authorizing Investment of Monies in the Local Agency Investment Fund (LAIF) and to Revise the List of Authorized Signers for the City of Los Banos; City Council Resolution No. 6924 – Amending the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Budget by Increasing Revenue in the Amount of $785,000 and Expenditures in the Amount of $510,150 as it Pertains to Building Department Services; City Council Resolution No. 6925 – Amending Division 5 – Personnel Benefits as it Pertains to Notary Public Certification Pay, Project Management Professional Certification Pay, Water/Wastewater Certificate Pay, Heavy/Special Equipment Operator Differential Pay, and Refuse Collection Pay for Unrepresented Miscellaneous Employees; City Council Resolution No. 6926 – Confirming the Appointment of William A. Vaughn as City Attorney and Approving Agreement for City Attorney Services in the Amount of $14,700 a Month Retainer. The motion carried by the affirmative action of all Council Members present. CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF CITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION NO. 6927 – AUTHORIZING THE AWARD OF CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT TO ROLFE CONSTRUCTION, INC. IN THE AMOUNT OF $4,432,440 WITH A 15% CONTINGENCY OF $664,866 FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE FINAL KILOMETER SEWER TRUNK LINE REPLACEMENT PROJECT. Public Works Director/City Engineer Bergson presented the staff report. Motion by Lewis, seconded by Chavez to adopt City Council Resolution No. 6927 – Authorizing the Award of Construction Contract to Rolfe Construction, Inc. in the Amount of $4,432,440 with a 15% Contingency of $664,866 for the Construction of the Final Kilometer Sewer Trunk Line Replacement Project. The motion carried by the affirmative action of all Council Members present. CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF CITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION NO. 6928 – AUTHORIZING THE INTERIM CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A PURCHASE ORDER WITH AGEE CONSTRUCTION CORPORATION IN THE AMOUNT OF $175,269 FOR THE PROCUREMENT OF REINFORCED CONCRETE PIPE PURSUANT TO SECTION 3-10.250(M) OF THE CITY MUNICIPAL CODE. Public Works Director/City Engineer Bergson presented the staff report. Motion by Chavez, seconded by Sanders to adopt City Council Resolution No. 6928 – Authorizing the Interim City Manager to Execute a Purchase Order with Agee Construction Corporation in the Amount of $175,269 for the Procurement of Reinforced Concrete Pipe Pursuant to Section 3-10-250(M) of the City Municipal Code. The motion carried by the affirmative action of all Council Members present. CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF CITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION NO. 6929 – AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE AN AGREEMENT FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF THE LOS BANOS DOWNTOWN PROPERTY AND BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT (PBID) MANAGEMENT DISTRICT PLAN BETWEEN THE CITY OF LOS BANOS AND LOS BANOS DOWNTOWN ASSOCIATION THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 2034. City Attorney Vaughn stated that he will be recusing himself as he owns his business property which is in the PBID and left his eat at the dais and the Council Chambers. Community & Economic Development Director Souza Elms presented the staff report. Mayor Amabile inquired as to what responsibilities the City holds regarding the PBID, which Community & Economic Development Director Souza Elms explained. She clarified that the PBID functions similarly to a homeowner’s association and is primarily managed by the Downtown Association, with the City being one participant among about 68 property owners. The City has one vote, equal to each property owner. The City’s role includes overseeing the adoption and renewal of the PBID but does not extend to direct control of the district. Meetings are held quarterly in accordance with the PBID’ s bylaws and comply with the Brown Act. Additionally, the PBID is required to maintain insurance, financial record-keeping, and auditing practices. The agreement between the City and the PBID ensures that both entities fulfill their obligations, with the City acting as an intermediary. Mr. Amabile thought the City had more control over the PBID. They noted that, in reality, the City’s role seems limited to overseeing the agreement to ensure that funds are properly sent to the county. Interim City Manager Brizzee referencing page 105 and 106 of the agreement which outline the City’s responsibilities regarding the PBID. They clarified that tonight’s discussion is not about voting to continue the PBID, but rather to formalize the City’s role in collecting and transferring PBID funds. Mr. Amabile noted that if the council did not act on the agreement tonight, the PBID funds would still be collected but would not be disbursed. He added that he would need to consult with legal counsel to determine the appropriate course of action should the agreement fail to be approved. Council Member Lewis stated that she had Ms. Mallonee distribute information regarding the Brown Act, which the Downtown Association is required to follow, as requested by Ms. Lewis. She referenced Government Code Section 54950 and noted that a workshop will be held prior to the adoption of the budget. Council Member Lewis expressed concerns about a lack of transparency under the prior administration, stating that past audits did not provide a full picture. She explained that the City holds the majority of property square footage within the PBID, which determines voting power; although more individuals voted “no,” those voting “yes” represented more square footage. Regarding the agreement’s termination clause under section 1.1, she questioned how the City can provide notice if it is not fully informed. She emphasized her desire to understand the PBID’ s finances, specifically the taxpayer funds collected and how they are spent, requesting detailed, line-by-line accounting. If the PBID is operating in the red, she expressed serious concern and stressed the obligation to ensure taxpayer dollars are spent appropriately according to agreed-upon plans. She referenced the master plan approved in August 2024 and asked for a timeline of improvements. While not singling out any organization, she insisted on accountability for tax dollars and believes the City Council has the authority to discontinue the agreement if necessary. After speaking with downtown merchants, she shared that some are unhappy with the flower pots and the unannounced tree trimming, though she personally appreciates the beautification efforts and security cameras. She noted that watering is done occasionally to maintain the plants. Council Member Lewis concluded that the financial records require deeper review before the agreement is signed. Over the past five years, improvements such as benches and flower pots have been made, but she feels much information was not shared with her as a council member, and the council needs clarity on what the City is receiving in return. Mr. Amabile stated that the City only has one vote and does not have sole decision- making authority over the PBID. He emphasized that if the City does not sign the agreement, it will not receive the PBID funds. He noted that the PBID is financially in the black overall, although the recent casino night event operated at a loss. Council Member Chavez asked who collects the PBID funds for which Ms. Souza Elms responded that the county collects the funds, then passes them to the City, which in turn distributes the money to the PBID. Ms. Lewis stated that the public has requested an audit and a detailed financial breakdown. She emphasized that the City, the public, and the business owners are entitled to receive this information, especially given the resistance that has been encountered. Mr. Chavez expressed concerns about a lack of transparency and questioned why information was withheld for so long. They felt the process seemed one- sided, favoring what is best for the organization rather than the public. They also noted that only individuals who align with the organization’s goals and who are agreeable are allowed to participate, leading to a perception that the process is neither fair nor transparent. Interim City Manager Brizzee The best way to obtain the audit being requested is through this agreement. If any fraud, waste, or abuse is discovered, the City can then exercise the termination clause to address those issues accordingly. Council Member Sanders asked what agreement was in place prior to this one, Ms. Souza Elms noted that the previous agreement had expired. Mr. Amabile stated that he does not believe there is any fraud involved. Mr. Chavez asked why the agreement is for so long, which Mr. Brizzee responded that the duration is related to the length of the PBID itself, adding that staff does not have a hesitation in requesting an audit. Mr. Amabile acknowledged that people have been asking for transparency about where the money has gone for quite some time. He expressed that if the agreement is not approved, the City’s hands would be tied in accessing the funds. Therefore, he feels it is necessary to approve the agreement while simultaneously requesting an audit. He also noted that since the PBID has been voted on, it is not going away. Ms. Lewis noted that the last audit was very minimal and emphasized the need to clearly outline the specific information required in the audit to ensure that business owners and taxpayers are satisfied. Mr. Brizzee explained that if a third-party audit is produced and it’s deemed insufficient, additional audits or reviews can always be requested. explained that if a third-party audit is produced and it’s deemed insufficient, additional audits or reviews can always be requested. Mr. Chavez stated that if there had been transparency earlier, many of these issues could have been avoided. Finance Director Moreno responded that auditing standards are consistent and rigorous, and she would honor the council’s wishes regarding the audit. She explained that the contract includes a termination clause if needed. Ms. Lewis asked whether there are minimum standards for audits and if the council could request something more detailed, such as a step-by-step review from the beginning. Ms. Moreno affirmed that audits include verifying and testing all disbursements and revenues to ensure everything is approved, balanced, signed, and cross-checked, high standards common to all businesses, and that they can work with the auditors to ensure the audit is thorough. Gary added that the City has access to all PBID records. Mr. Chavez inquired about the timeline for the audit, and Ms. Moreno estimated approximately six months. Mr. Sanders clarified that the City is not conducting the audit itself but is coordinating the process. Mayor welcomed the public to come forward. MR. VIEIRA asked if the agreement needed to be approved that night, to which Mike confirmed it did. KATHY BALLARD explained that although the City has only one vote, it is weighted based on the square footage of property it owns, giving it significant influence; Ms. Souza Elms clarified that this weighted vote was used during the initial PBID assessment and establishment. CAROLYN VIEIRA expressed confusion, and Ms. Souza Elms explained that the City only has one vote on the board, while Ms. Lewis added that renewals are based on weighted votes. Mr. Vieira asked who represents the City on the board, and the Mayor said Lewis was appointed but has a scheduling conflict, so Ms. Souza Elms would represent the City temporarily. Vieira mentioned she was never invited or informed about PBID meetings until she persistently reached out. Ms. Ballard questioned why the issue was brought up four months earlier and voted on by members who were later recalled. Ms. Souza Elms responded by referencing the Downtown Master Plan approval. Ms. Lewis inquired about when the PBID was voted on, and Ms. Souza Elms stated it occurred in August of the previous year to meet county tax roll deadlines. RAUL GRANILLO asked how often PBID meetings occur, and Ms. Souza Elms said they are held every third Thursday at 10 a.m. Mr. Granillo noted that many seem unaware of this schedule and suggested slowing down to evaluate priorities, ensuring bills are paid first, before deciding on the PBID’ s future role. He expressed skepticism about the PBID’ s creation, emphasized the City’s dominant vote, and highlighted a serious lack of communication. He recommended the Downtown Association, business owners, and the City collaborate more closely to facilitate better conversation moving forward. Mr. Chavez asked what happens if the agreement is not approved. Mr. Amabile explained that the money would still be collected by the county but would not be dispersed to the City to pass on to the PBID and addressed concerns about the Oddfellows parking lot assessments, stating that all parking lots are being assessed equally and that this decision is final. He expressed confidence that the Downtown Association will handle the situation appropriately. Interim City Manager Brizzee suggested that as part of the motion, the Council should request a formal audit of the PBID. Motion by Lewis, seconded by Chavez to adopt City Council Resolution No. 6929 – Authorizing the City Manager to Execute an Agreement for Implementation of the Los Banos Downtown Property and Business Improvement District Management District Plan Between the City of Los Banos and Los Banos Downtown Association Through December 31, 2034, adding and requesting that a full audit be done from the beginning of the PBID to present, to not include the 501c organization. The motion carried by the affirmative action of all Council Members present. City Attorney Vaughn returned to the Council Chambers and his seat at the dais. COUNCIL MEMBER REQUEST – DISCUSSION REGARDING THE MOBILE VENDOR ORDINANCE (COUNCIL MEMBER CHAVEZ). Council Member Chavez shared that he has spoken with mobile food vendors and is requesting the City revisit the current ordinance. He suggested exploring ways to allow seating and weather protection, such as tables, chairs, and tents, to better support vendors during inclement weather. He also raised concerns about illegal food vendors and emphasized the need to review the ordinance to find practical solutions that work for everyone. Mayor Amabile asked the City Clerk to read a letter and invited public comments, the letter was from Ninive Villagomez who wrote in support of allowing tables, chairs and canopies, I own a local taco truck near City Hall, serving hardworking community members with quick, affordable meals. Our business is family-run and aims to work alongside other local businesses, not compete with them. Having a few tables and chairs for customers, many of whom have short lunch breaks or disabilities, makes a big difference by creating a welcoming space where they can rest and enjoy their food comfortably. We ask the city to support small businesses like ours by allowing seating and coverage, helping us contribute positively to the community. A business owner next to City Hall spoke, emphasizing that it was never their intent to be defiant, noting that it is common practice for food trucks to have tables and chairs, and expressing hope that the ordinance can be changed accordingly. Ivan Gonzales complained about the current ordinance, saying it is unfair for his customers to stand without seating when brick-and- mortar establishments have that option. As a disabled person who cannot stand for long periods, he feels it is important to provide chairs for his customers’ comfort. Refugio added that the ordinance is over 20 years old and overdue for review, with vendors requesting allowances for tables, chairs, and canopy covers—not permanent structures—which align with recently approved Senate bills. He also expressed concern that fees are excessive and should only cover actual costs, urging a review of the fee schedule. Raul Granillo, although not a food vendor himself, expressed support for revisiting the ordinance, stressing that food trucks are simply people trying to make an honest living and are not harming brick-and-mortar restaurants. He encouraged the city to remember the importance of these individuals in the community and to not overlook their needs. Mr. Chavez acknowledged that the current council cares and understands government processes take time. He supports reviewing the ordinance to allow chairs, tables, and tents that can be easily removed each day. Mr. Amabile noted that government moves slowly by design to ensure public input. He encouraged more restaurants to come to town for the benefit of the whole community. He pointed out that mobile vendors originally moved frequently but now often stay in one spot, so rules need to fairly balance the interests of both mobile vendors and brick-and-mortar restaurants. He agreed the ordinance should be reviewed. Motion by Chavez, seconded by Sanders to have staff move forward with reviewing new options for the Mobile Food Ordinance to include what has been talked about and bring back to Council at a later date to consider. The motion carried by the affirmative action of all Council Members present. APPOINTMENT OF MEMBERS TO THE FOLLOWING COMMISSIONS: MEASURE H CITIZENS’ OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE, ONE (1) TWO (2) YEAR TERM – EXPIRING DECEMBER 31, 2026; TREE COMMISSION, ONE (1) UNEXPIRED TERM – EXPIRING DECEMBER 31, 2025, TWO (2) TWO (2) YEAR TERMS – EXPIRING DECEMBER 31, 2026. City Clerk/Human Resources Director Mallonee presented the staff report. Motion by Amabile, seconded by Lewis, to appoint Letty Guerra to the Measure H Citizens’ Oversight Committee, a one (1) two (2) year term – expiring December 31, 2026. The motion carried by the affirmative action of all Council Members present. Motion by Amabile, seconded by Chavez, to appoint Thomas Kaljian and Brian Hollaran to the Tree Commission to two (2) two (2) year terms – expiring December 31, 2026. The motion carried by the affirmative action of all Council Members present. CITY DEPARTMENT REPORTS. Interim City Manager Brizzee introduced a new agenda item for quick reports from department heads. Community & Economic Development Director Souza Elms provided an update on upcoming Planning Commission public hearings and noted that the California Department of Finance recently released new population estimates, reflecting a 1.4% increase to 48,896 residents. Finance Director Moreno announced that starting July 1, 2025, the city will begin accepting credit card payments at all locations. Parks & Recreation Director Heim shared that a ceremonial $1 million check, secured with assistance from Assemblywoman Soria, will be presented on May 17 at Colorado Ball Park. He also mentioned the soft opening of Sunrise Ranch on May 12 and upcoming progress on Shaunessey Village. Police Chief Reyna expressed gratitude to Jason Walsh and Los Banos Junior High School for their collaboration and noted that with approved funding, the Police Department plans to build a mobile speed trailer to monitor traffic throughout the city. Public Works Director/City Engineer reported that the city is currently soliciting construction proposals and that Ortigalita is temporarily shut down. CITY MANAGER REPORT. Interim City Manager Brizzee thanked the staff and council for attending the budget priorities workshop, noting that it was very productive with a lot of information exchanged. He emphasized the continued effort toward transparency and mentioned that the press spent the entire day with them. Additionally, he announced that new, larger TVs have been ordered for the council chambers. CITY COUNCIL MEMBER REPORTS: MARCUS CHAVEZ – DISTRICT 3: Yesterday’s goals and objective workshop/meeting was very informative, and he thanked the staff for their presentation and the valuable information shared. He described it as a great learning experience and pretty cool to see everything firsthand. The homeless encampment was a significant topic of discussion, and he mentioned that he personally went through the encampment. He noted that staff is already working on solutions to address the issue. DEBORAH LEWIS – DISTRICT 4: The recent CalCities news reported a population increase of 108 in California, noting that the state experienced a significant exodus during COVID-19. While growth has been slow in the Bay Area, the Central Valley is seeing more positive growth. Congratulations were extended to Chief Reyna’s explorers, Greco and Marchese, for their work engaging youth in law enforcement. Director Mallonee was also congratulated on receiving her first-ever award, with thanks given for her dedicated service. Regarding street projects, there was a request to avoid routing heavy truck traffic through residential areas during large projects in Los Banos. The Citizen’s Academy was highlighted as an important community program that brings all city departments together to educate residents and help maintain full commissions and promote city vacancies. Finally, the SJVAPCD meeting focused mostly on statistics and staff appreciation, with a key recommendation for residents to stop burning wood. Funding is still available for those interested in switching to gas appliances or inserts. DISTRICT 1: Vacant EVAN SANDERS – DISTRICT 2: Yesterday’s workshop/meeting was really cool and a great opportunity to bring everyone together to talk, especially since the Brown Act usually limits how we can meet. It was an informative day and honestly the most fun I’ve had so far. I appreciate the thought and effort everyone put into their presentations—they helped us understand what to expect in the coming years. It’s clear that everyone truly wants what’s best for the city. MICHAEL S. AMABILE – MAYOR: A few weeks ago, there was the city-county dinner in Merced, a quarterly meeting where city and county officials network, share ideas, and plan for future events. They discussed how Merced secured grant funding for their new terminal, and he shared that he was recently appointed to another commission. At 11 a.m., there was a ribbon-cutting at the Lorraine Street Bridge in Dos Palos, funded by Measure V. Congratulations were extended to the Merced County Spring Fair Board for another great May Day week. While there wasn’t much talk about potholes, it’s clear our streets need attention. Last week, he spent 12 hours in Sacramento at Senate hearings for SB 466, a bill the city is co-sponsoring that involves expanding the Capitol. He thanked staff for yesterday’s meeting, saying he enjoyed it, looks forward to more, and appreciates the council and staff’s dedication to the city’s goals. CLOSED SESSION – PUBLIC EMPLOYMENT; TITLE: CITY ATTORNEY, PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54957(B). Mayor Amabile stated that direction was given to staff. ADJOURNMENT. The meeting was adjourned at 9:02 p.m. APPROVED: __/s/ Michael S. Amabile________ Michael S. Amabile, Mayor ATTEST: __/s/ Lucille L. Mallonee___________ Lucille L. Mallonee, City Clerk