City Council Meeting

CITY OF LOS BANOS CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OCTOBER 1, 2025 ACTION MINUTES – These minutes are prepared to depict action taken for agenda items presented to the City Council. For a detailed account of this meeting, refer to the video recording available on YouTube, which serves as a permanent record. CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Amabile called the City Council Meeting to order at the hour of 6:01 p.m. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Police Chief Reyna led the pledge of allegiance. ROLL CALL – MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL PRESENT: Council Member Evan Sanders – District 2, Marcus Chavez – District 3, Deborah Lewis – District 4, Mayor Michael Amabile, District 1 – vacant; ABSENT: None STAFF MEMBERS PRESENT: Interim City Manager Brizzee, City Attorney Vaughn, City Clerk/Human Resources Director Mallonee, Community & Economic Development Director Souza Elms, Police Chief Reyna, Acting Public Works Director/Parks & Recreation Director Heim, Fire Chief Tualla (7:04 PM), Finance Director Moreno CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF AGENDA: Motion by Lewis, seconded by Sanders to approve the agenda as submitted. The motion carried by the affirmative action of all Council Members present. CONSIDERATION OF CERTIFICATION OF VOTES OF SPECIAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION, AUGUST 26, 2025; CITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION NO. 6987 – ACCEPTING THE CERTIFICATION OF THE RESULTS OF THE MERCED COUNTY SPECIAL ELECTION HELD IN THE CITY OF LOS BANOS ON AUGUST 26, 2025 AS IT PERTAINS TO THE ELECTION OF A COUNCIL MEMBER FOR DISTRICT 1. City Clerk Mallonee presented the staff report, making note that the Merced County Registrar of Voters certified the August 26, 2025 special municipal election results for the vacant District 1 City Council seat on September 17, 2025, with the final vote totals as follows: Mitzy Perez – 263 votes; Khalid Virry Sanchez – 222 votes. Adoption of the resolution formally accepts the certified results and completes the process of filling the District 1 vacancy. Motion by Lewis, seconded by Chavez to adopt City Council Resolution No. 6987 – Accepting the Certification of the Results of the Merced County Special Election Held in the City of Los Banos on August 26, 2025 as it Pertains to the Election of a Council Member for District 1. The motion carried by the affirmative action of all Council Members present. ADMINISTRATION OF OATH OF OFFICE TO ELECTED OFFICIAL; COUNCIL MEMBER MITZY PEREZ – DISTRICT 1. City Clerk Mallonee administered the oath of Office to Mitzy Perez, Council Member – District 1. ROLL CALL – MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL PRESENT: Council Member Evan Sanders – District 2, Marcus Chavez – District 3, Deborah Lewis – District 4, Mayor Michael Amabile, Council Member Mitzy Perez – District 1; ABSENT: None PRESENTATION – CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION – EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH FOR SEPTEMBER 2025 – APRIL VIEIRA, CRIME ANALYST, POLICE DEPARTMENT. Mayor Amabile presented the certificate to April Vieira who was in attendance to accept. 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. KHALID SANCHEZ, a recent candidate for the District 1 City Council special election, addressed the Council regarding campaign conduct. She stated that campaign materials distributed on behalf of Council Member–Elect Mitzy Perez contained false and defamatory statements about him, which he believes harmed his personal reputation, family, and business, and negatively affected community trust in the election process. She expressed that while he accepts the election results, he does not accept the tactics used. She urged that future local elections focus on ideas and integrity. Ms. Sanchez concluded by stating he remains committed to serving the community, and requested a response from Ms. Perez. ISAAC (speaker did not state last name) discussed challenges faced as a business owner and resident, including limited hospital services, lack of a neonatal incubator locally, economic and permitting struggles, and difficulties starting and maintaining businesses in Los Banos. He expressed concern that negative campaign tactics discourage community members from participating in local elections. He encouraged city leadership to support needed infrastructure such as hospital services, road improvements, and business development. CARLOS FLORES, DISTRICT 1 commented on the recent District 1 election and expressed concerns about the influence of money in local politics. He stated that community needs such as job creation, park improvements, and neighborhood conditions in District 1 require greater attention. He requested that Council Member–Elect Perez meet directly with District 1 residents to present her plans and priorities. Mr. Flores also stated that he believes transparency and accountability are essential in rebuilding public trust. DAVE ANDERSON, Volunteer Fire Department, thanked the Council for support of the volunteer firefighter recruitment program and encouraged community participation. He also announced the upcoming Fire Department Pancake Breakfast and Open House on October 11 from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., and noted that tickets and additional information are available online and through the department. Rhonda Lowe, UC Merced Small Business Development Center, a local business owner and business coach, announced an upcoming free workshop titled “Starting Smart: The Basics of Starting a Business” scheduled for October 18 from 10:00–11:00 a.m. at the Los Banos Community Center. She encouraged registration due to limited seating and emphasized the importance of supporting small businesses within the community. BLANCHE GEORGE, Friends of the Library, speaking as Vice President of the Friends of the Library, announced several upcoming events during National Friends of the Library Month in October, including a meet-the-Friends event, a book discussion, a seed exchange activity, a bilingual family craft day, and a children’s scavenger hunt. She invited the Council and community to participate and highlighted the library’s role in supporting community education and engagement. 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 items as follows: Check Register for #253744 – #253959 in the Amount of $2,943,129.06; City Council Resolution No. 6988 – Accepting the Pacheco Park Irrigation Project as Complete and Authorizing the Filing of a Notice of Completion with the Merced County Recorder; City Council Resolution No. 6989 – Authorizing the Interim City Manager to Execute the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Airport Improvement Program (AIP) Grant Agreement and Approving a Budget Amendment to Increase Appropriations in Expenditure Account 505- 435-100-725 (Airport Improvements) by $78,111 and in Revenue Account 505-000-331- 010 (Federal Grant) by $70,300 for Los Banos Municipal Airport Project No. 3-06-0140- 011-2025; City Council Resolution No. 6990 – Awarding the Bid for the Purchase of a New 2024 ¾ Ton Medium Duty Utility Truck and Authorize to Issue a Purchase Order in the Amount of $72,500 to Santos Ford; City Council Resolution No. 6991 – Awarding the Bid for the Purchase of Two (2) New 2026 ¾ Ton Medium Duty Utility Truck and Authorize to Issue a Purchase Order in the Amount of $145,000 to Santos Ford; City Council Resolution No. 6992 – Authorizing the Interim City Manager to Enter into an Agreement with Symbium for Development and Launch of an Online Solar Permitting System as Required by SB 379; City Council Resolution No. 6993 – Approving Closure of Non- Essential City Offices on December 24, 2025, December 26, 2025 and January 2, 2026 and at 12:00 PM December 31, 2025 Due to the Christmas Holiday Season. The motion carried by the affirmative action of all Council Members present. CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF CITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION NO. 6994 – APPOINTING A CITY ATTORNEY AND APPROVING AND AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF THE LOS BANOS CITY ATTORNEY EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT. Human Resources Director Mallonee presented the staff report, noting that the recruitment, assisted by Ralph Anderson and Associates, began in May 2025, and Mary Lerner was selected from several qualified candidates. She has over 20 years of experience representing public agencies in California and expertise in governance, land use, labor law, and public safety. If approved, she would begin November 17, 2025, with a five-year term, a $280,000 annual salary with 3% annual increases, and benefits consistent with other management employees. There is no fiscal impact beyond what has already been budgeted for the fiscal year. Funds are available in the 2025-26 budget to cover all costs associated with this agreement. The agreement has been reviewed and approved as to form by the current city attorney. Mayor Amabile noted that city government has changed significantly over the past 20 years, and with the city nearing 50,000 residents, it was time to hire a full-time city attorney. He thanked City Attorney Vaughn for his 23 years of service, praising his work in protecting the city, but noted that as a part-time employee with a private business, the increasing demands of municipal government required a full-time attorney. Following an extensive search, Mary Lerner was selected and the Mayor expressed excitement for her upcoming service and the expertise she will bring to the city. Motion by Lewis, seconded by Sanders to adopt City Council Resolution No. 6994 – Appointing a City Attorney and Approving and Authorizing the Execution of the Los Banos City Attorney Employment Agreement. The motion carried by the affirmative action of all Council Members present. CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF CITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION NO. 6995 – AMENDING DIVISION 4, SALARY SCHEDULE – EMPLOYEE CLASSIFICATIONS RELATING TO SECTION A – ADMINISTRATION / CITY ATTORNEY. Human Resources Director Mallonee presented the staff report, noting that that this resolution reflects the agreed-upon monthly salary of $23,334 for Mary Lerner, with no additional fiscal impact, as funds are included in the current fiscal year budget. Motion by Chavez, seconded by Sanders to adopt City Council Resolution No. 6995 – Amending Division 4, Salary Schedule – Employee Classifications Relating to Section A – Administration / City Attorney. The motion carried by the affirmative action of all Council Members present. CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE NO. 1210 – AMENDING CHAPTER 16 OF TITLE 3 OF THE LOS BANOS MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO CONTRACTING FOR PUBLIC WORKS PROJECTS (UNIFORM PUBLIC CONSTRUCTION COST ACCOUNTING ACT) (FIRST READING & INTRODUCTION). City Attorney Vaughn present presented the staff report, noting that the legislature has updated the Uniform Construction Cost Accounting Act, which affects public project bidding thresholds. The proposed ordinance updates the city’s rules to match the new law, increasing the informal bid threshold from $60,000 to $75,000 and the formal bid threshold from $200,000 to $225,000. This change ensures compliance with the January 2025 legislative updates. Motion by Lewis, seconded by Chavez to waive the first reading of Ordinance No. 1210 – Amending Chapter 16 of Title 3 of the Los Banos Municipal Code Relating to Contracting for Public Works Projects (Uniform Public Construction Cost Accounting Act). The motion carried by the affirmative action of all Council Members present. Motion by Lewis, seconded by Sanders to introduce Ordinance No. 1210 – Amending Chapter 16 of Title 3 of the Los Banos Municipal Code Relating to Contracting for Public Works Projects (Uniform Public Construction Cost Accounting Act). The motion carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Chavez, Lewis, Perez, Sanders, Amabile; NOES: None; ABSENT: None. CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF CITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION NO. 6996 – AWARDING THE CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT FOR THE WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT (WWTP) POND 2 LEVEE REPAIR PROJECT TO ARCHER CIVIL CONSTRUCTION LLC AND APPROVING A BUDGET ADJUSTMENT AND BUDGET AMENDMENT. Acting Public Works Director/Parks & Recreation Director presented the staff report, speaking to the Pond 2 levy repair at the wastewater treatment plant. Pond 2, with a holding capacity of over 207 million gallons, has gone more than 25 years without maintenance, and the levy is now severely deteriorated. Failure of the levy could result in catastrophic flooding, disrupting the controlled flow and proper distribution of wastewater, which could lead to regulatory violations and environmental risks. The project will restore and reinforce 7,686 feet of levy embankment, reconstruct slopes, and complete essential site improvements to maintain system reliability and safe operations. StanTech prepared the design plans and bid documents, and five competitive bids were received. Archer Civil Construction, LLC submitted the lowest responsive and responsible bid. The total project cost is estimated at $1.34 million, including the base bid, engineering inspections, and contingency expenses. Funding will come from the Wastewater Collections Fund, which has a $17.1 million reserve. Budget adjustments include a decrease in one fund by $400,000 and increasing another fund by $1.34 million to fully fund the project, correcting a prior misallocation between services and supplies and capital line items. Mr. Heim noted that Pond 2 has been offline for over a year, which has placed additional strain on other ponds. Temporary conditions, such as the closure of Los Banos Dairymen’s and a shorter rainy season, helped mitigate the impact, but these are not permanent solutions. Council Member Lewis asked Mr. Heim to explain the difference between the base bid and other costs for the Pond 2 levy repair project and he explained that the base bid represents the contractor’s quoted cost to complete the project. Additional expenses beyond the base bid include a 15% contingency for unexpected costs, engineering consulting and submittal reviews by StanTech, change orders, and testing such as compaction tests to ensure proper construction. Council Member Chavez noted the repairs are long overdue and emphasized the need for the project and Mr. Heim responded to further questions and clarified the breakdown of costs. Motion by Chavez, seconded by Lewis to adopt City Council Resolution No. 6996 – Awarding the Construction Contract for the Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) Pond 2 Levee Repair Project to Archer Civil Construction LLC and Approving a Budget Adjustment and Budget Amendment. The motion carried by the affirmative action of all Council Members present. PIONEER ROAD COMPLETE STREETS PROJECT UPDATE. Acting Public Works Director/Parks & Recreation Director presented the staff report, highlighting ongoing construction, project phasing, and community feedback from the September 9, 2025, public meeting. The project is focused on improving capacity, safety, and connectivity along the Pioneer Road corridor, extending approximately 6.5 miles from east of Highway 152 near Merced College to Highway 152 at Ward Road. Improvements include roadway upgrades and extensions, intersection enhancements, drainage improvements, and new pedestrian and bicycle facilities. Community feedback has been documented and shared with Mark Thomas, the project engineer. Key concerns raised included impacts at 11th Street, jurisdictional questions regarding city versus county responsibilities for public safety, neighborhood impacts, current road conditions, and homeownership concerns. Additional input received via email after the meeting continues to be reviewed. Mayor Amabile emphasized the importance of public meetings as opportunities for residents to provide feedback. Mr. Heim noted that feasible concerns raised during the meeting, including improving the existing condition of Pioneer Road from Ortigalita to Los Banos Creek, have been added to the current project list. Council and staff discussed the lane configuration. While the current design includes a mix of two- and four-lane sections, the corridor is designed to allow future expansion to four or six lanes as traffic and funding needs evolve. Mark Thomas explained that traffic forecasting is based on the City and County general plans and projected community growth, and that CalEPA requirements necessitated segmenting the project over time. Council Member Lewis clarified that the original plan had been approved for four lanes but was reduced to two lanes due to state funding decisions; the City did not choose to eliminate the bypass, but funding was redirected by the state to Highway 99 improvements. Ms. Lewis noted that previous inaction resulted in lost funding for the project but expressed support for moving forward and seeking additional funding to complete the four-lane corridor. Council Member Sanders expressed concern that the current mixed design may not sufficiently mitigate traffic and suggested exploring a consistent four-lane design. He recommended that staff return with a report on a Pioneer Community Corridor plan, considering long- term growth, neighborhood compatibility, and future land use. Staff agreed to document this recommendation for future evaluation. Council Member Chavez and other staff acknowledged that prior delays and funding constraints left the project behind schedule but emphasized that the phased approach aligns with funding cycles, environmental studies, and technical requirements. The first construction segment at Pioneer Road and Ortigalita Road is underway, with subsequent phases planned every three years to complete the east-west corridor and strengthen regional connectivity. Staff discussed the sphere of influence along Pioneer Road, noting that future growth south of Pioneer is limited by current general plan boundaries, LAFCO regulations, and land use planning. The City is working to amend the general plan to remove the bypass, ensuring that circulation and transportation planning is aligned with realistic growth projections. Council, by consensus, approved continuing with the phased project as presented and directed staff to explore Council Member Sanders’ recommendation for a more holistic Pioneer Community Corridor plan and report back at a future meeting. NOTICE AND ANNOUNCEMENT OF VACANCIES FOR THE FOLLOWING COMMISSIONS/COMMITTEES: AIRPORT ADVISORY COMMISSION – TWO (2) VACANCIES, TWO (2) TWO (2) YEAR TERMS – EXPIRING DECEMBER 31, 2027; MEASURE H CITIZENS’ OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE – TWO (2) VACANCIES, TWO (2) TWO (2) YEAR TERMS – EXPIRING DECEMBER 31, 2027; MEASURE P COMMITTEE – FOUR (4) VACANCIES, THREE (3) TWO (2) YEAR TERMS – EXPIRING DECEMBER 31, 2028, ONE (1) UNEXPIRED TERM – EXPIRING DECEMBER 31, 2027; PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION – TWO (2) VACANCIES, TWO (2) TWO (2) YEAR TERMS – EXPIRING DECEMBER 31, 2027; PLANNING COMMISSION – ONE (1) VACANCY, ONE (1) UNEXPIRED TERM IN DISTRICT 1 – EXPIRING DECEMBER 31, 2028; TREE COMMISSION – THREE (3) VACANCIES, THREE (2) TWO (2) YEAR TERMS – EXPIRING DECEMBER 31, 2027. City Clerk Mallonee presented the staff report, noting that this is an annual requirement to inform the public and that all vacancies have been advertised and that outreach will continue through the city website, local newspaper, and other channels to ensure the positions are filled. Informational Item only, no action to be taken. CITY DEPARTMENT REPORTS. Community & Economic Development. Director Souza Elms reported that she and Trisha Sova, her Administrative Coordinator, attended the ICSC Western Conference in Palm Springs, a California-based retail and economic development conference that allows them to meet directly with brokers, retailers, and developers to showcase Los Banos and its available opportunities. The primary goal of attending was to put Los Banos “on the map” and build connections that could lead to future business opportunities. Ms. Souza Elms noted that they received various leads that are currently being pursued and expressed optimism about the city’s economic prospects. Finance. No report. Fire. Chief Tualla provided an update regarding the Battalion Chief testing, noting that they are currently in the second phase of the process. It was a long day, and they are hopeful to have candidates moving forward soon so the positions can be filled. The department expressed appreciation for the council’s support on the budget. Additionally, it was noted that Dave Anderson had earlier discussed the upcoming pancake breakfast scheduled for the 11th. Regarding the testing turnout, there were a total of ten candidates, which was considered a good starting point for filling the positions. Human Resources. Director Mallonee provided an update on the HR Department’s recruitment activities for the period of July through September. During this quarter, the department completed 20 recruitments across all city departments. In the Police Department, positions filled included two Public Safety Dispatchers, one Police Officer, one Records Supervisor, and three Police Officer trainees. In Public Works, two Utility Maintenance III positions, two Custodian positions, one Utility Maintenance I, one Utility Maintenance II, and one Maintenance Worker 1 in Facilities and Streets were filled. In the Community & Economic Development Department positions filled were an Admin Coordinator and an Admin Clerk I, while Parks & Recreation Department filled a Rec Coordinator position. The Finance Department hired a Finance Manager, the Fire Department added a firefighter, and the Administration Department filled an HR Technician I position. These recruitments have strengthened staffing across all departments, improving the city’s ability to provide services effectively. Looking ahead, nine new employees are set to start in October and November, and at least 15 additional positions remain in the recruitment process. Ms. Mallonee encouraged interested applicants to visit governmentjobs.com for current opportunities and expressed gratitude to the City Council for supporting new positions added in the 2025–26 fiscal year budget. Parks & Recreation/Public Works. Director Heim thanked Mayor Amabile, Mayor Pro Tem Lewis, and Council Member Chavez for attending the 40th Annual Salute to Seniors, noting it remains one of staff’s favorite events. Registration for Junior Warriors Basketball is underway, and he encouraged early registration due to high participation. Upcoming events include a blood drive on October 14th at the Community Center from 1 to 6 p.m. and the Halloween Fest on October 25th at the Ag Sports Complex. At the Ag Sports Complex, playground construction and installation of outfield posts are underway. Pickleball improvements are ongoing at Shaughnessy Park, with visible progress and a new park sign. Additionally, small “little libraries” have been installed at Ranchwood Park and Presidential Park to encourage book sharing, with positive community engagement so far. On the Public Works side, Mr. Heim highlighted airport improvements, including a recently approved AIP grant through the FAA, providing approximately $70,000 with a $7,800 city match for runway overlay design. Staff received strong reviews from Caltrans for the airport’s condition, and improvements were made to the airport lounge. Seasonal leaf cleanup is scheduled to begin in early November, supported by street sweepers and a specialized “snorkel truck.” Mr. Heim concluded by expressing appreciation for staff across all divisions, including treatment plants, engineering, fleets, solid waste, and Parks & Rec for their efforts on numerous city projects. Council Members also suggested exploring electrical hookups for electric planes at the airport as a future consideration. Police. Chief Reyna reported that two of the City’s CSOs, Ryu Pimentel and Abel Rodriguez, recently graduated from the Stanislaus County Core Corrections Academy. Currently, four Police Officer Trainees are attending the Fresno Police Academy, and a fifth trainee is graduating from the Delta Academy this month and will soon begin with the department. Chief Reyna also recognized April Vieira, the department’s Crime Analyst, for her contributions. Additionally, the department recently completed its first Spanish Citizen Academy, an eight-week course, which has been very successful, and noted that department staff are wearing pink patches this month in honor of October, as part of a tradition within the Police Department. CITY MANAGER REPORT. Interim City Manager Brizzee began with recognition of Bill Vaughn for his 23 years of service as the City Attorney and shared personal reflections on working with Bill over the past two decades and congratulated him on his retirement. In honor of Bill, Mr. Brizzee humorously noted his bow tie as part of a “Bill Vaughn starter kit.” He also expressed appreciation for all department heads and middle management staff for their daily efforts and accomplishments. Mr. Brizzee welcomed Mary Lerner as the new City Attorney, starting November 17th, and congratulated Council Member Perez on her election victory. He then provided an update for residents in the De Anza area, noting that the city is actively working with Mark Thomas, Mr. Heim, and other city staff to reopen De Anza Road. While a specific timeline is not yet available due to funding considerations and coordination with CalTrans, planning and design efforts are ongoing, emphasizing that reopening the road remains a priority and assured residents that progress is being made. CITY COUNCIL MEMBER REPORTS: MARCUS CHAVEZ – DISTRICT 3: Wished everyone a happy October and noted his appreciation for the arrival of fall weather. He thanked outgoing City Attorney Vaughn, reflecting on the knowledge he gained during the few months he worked with him, and expressed pride in the city’s recognition of his service. Mr. Chavez also welcomed incoming City Attorney Mary Lerner, acknowledging the big role she will be stepping into, and congratulated Council Member Perez on her election. Meetings are not like this most of the time, things can get a little crazy, people say unusual or made-up things, and that’s just how it goes and you just have to go with the flow. He shared his appreciation for the 40th annual Salute to Seniors event, noting it was a positive experience and an opportunity to meet residents. He concluded his remarks by thanking staff and noting that was all he had to report. DEBORAH LEWIS – DISTRICT 4: Shared her appreciation for attending the Annual Salute to Seniors event, noting that it is always a fun occasion and that the participation of city departments made it even better. She highlighted that the seniors enjoyed the lunch and raffle, and she thanked Mr. Heim and his staff for organizing the event. She also commented on the engagement of the various communities, saying it’s encouraging to see even smaller groups actively participate, and noted that Los Banos made a strong impression. She then provided a briefing on funding from the state for air quality programs, including support for disadvantaged communities under SB 617, assistance for farmers with clean air tractors, and the Clean Cars for All program. While the funding amounts are slightly lower than in the past, she expressed appreciation that the money is still being allocated to help improve air quality in the Valley. Finally, she mentioned upcoming priorities, including discussions at the annual retreat about budget and funding, as well as her attendance at the California League of Cities meeting next week to learn about new programs and resources for cities. MITZY PEREZ – DISTRICT 1: Expressed her gratitude to the Mayor, council members, staff, and the community for the opportunity to serve. She said she is honored to be sworn in and is excited to represent District 1 on the City Council. She looks forward to learning from her colleagues and working together to help the city continue moving forward. EVAN SANDERS – DISTRICT 2: Welcomed Council Member Perez, noting it’s great to have a new voice on the council and to be at full strength again. He highlighted the recently announced vacancies on city commissions, including planning and parks and recreation, and encouraged residents to apply, emphasizing that commissions play an important role in shaping the city’s future. He then discussed street repairs, noting that this topic comes up frequently on social media. He shared that the current budget for streets is $4.1 million, with an additional $2.5 million assigned for street projects, totaling about $6.5 million, roughly three times last year’s budget of $2.1 million. He explained that some delays are due to engineering and design processes but that repaving began on October 3rd and will continue throughout the fiscal year, pausing during winter and resuming in spring. He stressed the most effective way for residents to raise concerns is to speak at council meetings or send emails, rather than relying on social media, and encouraged people to reach out to their district representatives directly. He also welcomed the new city attorney, Ms. Lerner. Council Member Lewis announced that the city received a $150,000 grant from the Air District, on whose board she serves, to improve the council chambers and public viewing. She explained that the current equipment is outdated, making online viewing fuzzy, and that the grant will help upgrade the technology so residents can better see and participate in meetings even if they cannot attend in person. She noted that this update will be shared at the October 15th meeting. MICHAEL S. AMABILE – MAYOR: The Mayor provided several updates and reflections. On traffic and road projects, he noted that Caltrans plans to pave Highway 152, although the timeline has been delayed. He mentioned easements being taken on his property for a northbound turning lane and emphasized the importance of new cameras and equipment for city council meetings to improve public access and interaction. He reflected on past efforts for a highway bypass, noting that during his first term, he and the county supervisor worked with Caltrans to design and fund a bypass to reduce traffic in front of local businesses. Despite completing the plans and purchasing easements, the project was ultimately canceled due to lack of funding, and the general plan now needs to be updated to explore future east-west and north-south corridors. He added that as a self-help county, Measure V funding allows the city to contribute to Caltrans projects and move higher on their priority list. He also shared community updates. He attended a September 18th LAFCO meeting approving the municipal review and celebrated the 150th anniversary of the United Methodist Church, highlighting its historical connection to Henry Miller and the founding of a local Catholic church. He noted the success of the Salute to Seniors event, with a record 588 Golden Agers now registered. Additionally, he attended the 20th anniversary of Apex Medical Center, praising Dr. Devireddy and the center’s contributions to the community, including the introduction of new doctors. Finally, he welcomed new Council Member Mitzy Perez and recognized the transition of the city attorney role, with Bill Vaughn remaining for a few more meetings to assist Mary Lerner. CLOSED SESSION – PUBLIC EMPLOYMENT; TITLE: CITY MANAGER & CITY ATTORNEY, PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54957(B). No reportable action taken. ADJOURNMENT. The meeting was adjourned at 8:26 p.m. APPROVED: __/s/ Michael S. Amabile________ Michael S. Amabile, Mayor ATTEST: __/s/ Lucille L. Mallonee___________ Lucille L. Mallonee, City Clerk