City Council Meeting

CITY OF LOS BANOS CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OCTOBER 15, 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 Members Mitzy Perez – District 1, Evan Sanders – District 2, Marcus Chavez – District 3, Mayor Michael Amabile; ABSENT: Deborah Lewis – District 4 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, Finance Director Moreno CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF AGENDA: Motion by Chavez, seconded by Sanders to approve the agenda as submitted. The motion carried by the affirmative action of all Council Members present, Lewis absent. PRESENTATION – PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING NATIONAL FRIENDS OF LIBRARIES WEEK. Mayor Amabile presented the proclamation for which Erika Jaurez, President of the Los Banos Branch of the Friends of Libraries was present to accept, with others in her group also in attendance. 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. Council Member Chavez apologized for an inappropriate comment he made at the previous meeting. He acknowledged that his remark was wrong, expressed regret to the community, staff, and council members, and emphasized that he did not intend to discourage public participation. He specifically apologized to those present at the last meeting and thanked those who reached out to him. He noted that he has reflected on the incident, discussed it with his daughter as a learning moment, and committed to being a better person moving forward. Mayor Amabile invited the public to come forward to speak. UNNAMED SPEAKER Spoke about the community of Los Banos operating in a reactive mode. Highlighted programs including the GPA Workshop and MSR, and mentioned the Police Department’s need for 9 additional officers. Emphasized that Los Banos should strive to be the best and noted deficiencies in the Fire Department and growing traffic congestion. KALID SANCHEZ thanked Council Member Chavez for apologizing and noted that other council members should offer apologies as they laughed during prior discussion. Encouraged the community to speak up and highlighted a police department program offered in Spanish. JOE BALLAS discussed State Senator Caballero’s Young Legislators Program. TRACY GUISENMAS spoke regarding the annual Halloween event, the Elks Lodge fundraiser for the animal shelter, and an adoption event on October 25. Thanked supporters including veterinarians, groomers, and local businesses. Spanish-Speaking Comments (Translated by Finance Director Moreno): UNNAMED SPEAKER #1 – Emphasized the importance of programs for Spanish-speaking residents and building trust with the Police Department; UNNAMED SPEAKER #2 spoke about community involvement in city planning and the need to break down communication barriers for Spanish-speaking residents; UNNAMED SPEAKER #3 shared personal experiences as a Hispanic community member, encouraged participation in civic programs such as the Police Academy, and noted the importance of representation. NATHAN highlighted inclusion and engagement of Spanish-speaking residents in city initiatives, focusing on improving communication, safety, and community participation. BLANCHE JORGE appeared with a rescued feral cat, Gracie. Spoke about the rescue season and adoption process, emphasizing that feral cats can be socialized and adopted. Thanked the community for their guidance and trust. ANISE BROWN expressed gratitude to Chief Tualla and shared his journey toward becoming a firefighter. Voiced concerns about downtown development and the city overall, noting positive changes and the importance of planning for both the future and past. MARIBEL GARCIA, Executive Director of the Los Banos Downtown Association expressed gratitude to the Mayor, Interim City Manager, and city staff and highlighted the Farmers Market, Morningstar partnership, 4th of July events, Farm-to-Table event, and Spanish Heritage Month, and thanked David and Carolyn Santos and other local contributors for their support of Farm to Table. RAUL GRANILLO addressed Council conduct and commended Council Member Chavez’s apology, urged mindful communication and showing grace, noting that while it’s easy to judge, understanding and human error must be considered, praised the direction of the city and the representation of Hispanic women in the recent special election. LARRY BYERS, Los Banos Resident, proud member of the Los Banos Tree Commission, requested renewal of his commission and raised concerns about traffic and the Complete Streets/Pioneer Road projects, discussed the Highway 152 bypass and the need for long- term planning and GP amendments. JESSICA LUGO, representing the Friends of the Los Banos Library, extended an invitation to visit the library and discussed upcoming events. PATRICIA MCCOY, Los Banos American Legion, spoke about the Los Banos Veterans Parade on November 1 at 11:00 a.m., explaining the timing and the process of placing 900 flags around town. Encouraged participation and volunteering. UNNAMED SPEAKER addressed city growth since moving to Los Banos in 1992. Expressed concern about insufficient planning for increased fire and police personnel, and growing traffic congestion. Discussed the bypass, De Anza Way, and the importance of council members attending town hall meetings. Praised Council Member Chavez’s apology and suggested that the Mayor and Council Member Sanders should also apologize. ERASMO VIVEROS spoke regarding the Pioneer Road bypass and suggested alternatives, including making the current highway the bypass. No one else came forward to speak and the public forum was closed. CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA. Council Member Sanders, referring to item 7D – City Council Resolution No. 6997 – Authorizing the Interim City Manager to Execute a Grant Agreement with the San Joaquin River Exchange Contractors Water Authority for the HG Fawcett Canal Trail Overlay Project and Amending the Fiscal Year Budget to Increase Revenues and Expenditures in the Amount of $100,000, asked whether the HG Fawcett Canal is the only canal in the city eligible under the San Joaquin River Exchange Contractors Waters Authority program. Staff confirmed that while other canals exist, such as the eastern canal, eligibility is limited to canals under the Authority. Mr. Sanders noted that the eastern canal is already paved and has lights, making it a well-used walking path, and expressed a preference for directing grant funds to projects that provide new or additional recreational opportunities. They clarified that their comment was informational and not a vote against the grant, acknowledging that no matching funds are required for the project. Motion by Chavez, seconded by Sanders to approve the consent agenda items as follows: Check Register for #253959 – #254151 in the Amount of $1,160,953.71; City Council Meeting Minutes for September 3, 2025; City Council Meeting Minutes for September 17, 2025; City Council Resolution No. 6997 – Authorizing the Interim City Manager to Execute a Grant Agreement with the San Joaquin River Exchange Contractors Water Authority for the HG Fawcett Canal Trail Overlay Project and Amending the Fiscal Year Budget to Increase Revenues and Expenditures in the Amount of $100,000; City Council Resolution No. 6998 – Approving the Acceptance of a $50,000 Grant (PT26212) From the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) and Amending the 2025-2026 Fiscal Year Budget by Increasing the Appropriation Amount of the State Grant Fund Account for Expenditures and Revenues in the Amount of $50,000; City Council Resolution No. 6999 – Approving Parcel Map No. 2024-01, Which Includes Dedications of the Right-of-Way Along Highway 152 and Ward Road, and a 10’ Public Utility Easement Along Highway 152 and Ward Road Along Highway 152 and Ward Road, as Shown On Said Map (Amie Chang, as Trustee of Amie Change Family Trust); City Council Resolution No. 7000 – Awarding the Construction Contract for the Pavement of F Street Corporation Yard Parking Lot Project to Cal Coating Asphalt, Inc. in the Amount of $167,488 and Authorizing the City Manager to Execute the Agreement; City Council Resolution No. 7001 – Approving and Authorizing the Interim City Manager to Sign the Acceptance of a San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District (SJVAPCD), Electronic Mobility Grant, in the Amount of $150,000 and Approve a Budget Amendment to the 2025- 2026 Fiscal Year Budget to Reflect the Additional Revenue and Expenditures Under this Grant. The motion carried by the affirmative action of all Council Members present, Lewis absent. PUBLIC HEARING – TO RECEIVE PUBLIC COMMENT AND CONSIDERATION OF THE PROPOSED PARTICIPATION BY THE CITY OF LOS BANOS IN THE BOND OPPORTUNITIES FOR LAND DEVELOPMENT (BOLD) PROGRAM OF THE CALIFORNIA MUNICIPAL FINANCE AUTHORITY. PARTICIPATION IN SAID PROGRAM WILL ENABLE PROPERTY OWNERS TO FINANCE PUBLIC CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS AND/OR DEVELOPMENT IMPACT FEES FOR PUBLIC CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS IMPOSED ON NEW DEVELOPMENT WITHIN THE BOUNDARIES OF THE CITY OF LOS BANOS; CITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION NO. 7002 – APPROVING, AUTHORIZING, AND DIRECTING EXECUTION OF A JOIN EXERCISE OF POWERS AGREEMENT RELATING TO THE CALIFORNIA MUNICIPAL FINANCE AUTHORITY; CITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION NO. 7003 – AUTHORIZING USE OF THE BOND OPPORTUNITIES FOR LAND DEVELOPMENT (BOLD) PROGRAM AND AUTHORIZING THE CALIFORNIA MUNICIPAL FINANCE AUTHORITY TO ACCEPT APPLICATIONS FROM PROPERTY OWNERS, CONDUCT PROCEEDINGS AND LEVY SPECIAL TAXES WITHIN THE TERRITORY OF CITY OF LOS BANOS PURSUANT TO THE MELLO-ROOS COMMUNITY FACILITIES ACT OF 1982, AS AMENDED; AND AUTHORIZING RELATED ACTIONS. Community & Economic Development Director Souza Elms presented the staff report and introduced Ralph Holmes, Managing Director with Piper Sandler & Company, who presented the BOLD Program, which included a PowerPoint presentation. Mr. Holmes explained that BOLD is a tool allowing developers to fund infrastructure for new development projects through Community Facilities District (CFD) financing, which can be outsourced to the California Municipal Finance Authority (CMFA). Participation is voluntary, and there is no cost to the city. He highlighted that BOLD allows accelerated funding of infrastructure, such as streets, sidewalks, curbs, gutters, traffic signals, parks, and utilities. CMFA handles district formation and bond issuance, reducing city staff workload and financial exposure. Projects are pooled to make smaller developments cost-effective, generally requiring at least $500,000 in improvements. The city retains control over what is financed. Holmes provided examples from Newman and Riverbank and noted the program’s success in jurisdictions such as Placer County and Merced. Mayor Amabile opened the public hearing. ERASMOS VIVEROS asked about the pros and cons of the city managing CFDs in-house versus outsourcing, and whether the city considered doing it internally. No one else came forward to speak and the public hearing was closed. Mr. Holmes explained that some larger cities manage CFDs internally, but outsourcing is beneficial for smaller cities like Los Banos due to limited staff capacity. Outsourcing accelerates funding and ensures early completion of infrastructure, including parks, rather than leaving them until the end of projects. Mayor Amabile compared this to the former Redevelopment Agency (RDA), emphasizing that programs like BOLD allow critical infrastructure to be built early. Council Member Sanders raised concerns regarding affordability and the potential for developers to gain the most benefit, noting the need for clarity on how costs are passed to homeowners. Mr. Holmes and Mr. Amabile explained that the program provides a tool to mitigate the impact of new developments on existing residents and that pricing effects are market-driven. Finance Director Moreno and Interim City Manager Brizzee emphasized that the program incentivizes developer collaboration while the city maintains control over what is financed. Council Member Chavez noted that there is no cost to the city, but benefits must accrue to the city and existing residents. Mr. Holmes and staff confirmed that the program does not affect existing homeowners, is completely voluntary for developers, and provides the city with flexibility for future development projects. The council expressed general support for approving the program as a development tool, with safeguards to ensure city benefits, transparency on homeowner costs, and proper implementation. Motion by Chavez, seconded by Sanders to adopt City Council Resolution No. 7002 – Approving, Authorizing, and Directing Execution of a Join Exercise of Powers Agreement Relating to the California Municipal Finance Authority. The motion carried by the affirmative action of all Council Members present, Lewis absent. Motion by Sanders, seconded by Chavez to adopt City Council Resolution No. 7003 – Authorizing Use of the BOND Opportunities for Land Development (BOLD) Program and Authorizing the California Municipal Finance Authority to Accept Applications from Property Owners, Conduct Proceedings and Levy Special Taxes within the Territory of City of Los Banos Pursuant to the Mello-Roos Community Facilities Act of 1982, as Amended; and Authorizing Related Actions. The motion carried by the affirmative action of all Council Members present, Lewis absent. CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF CITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION NO. 7004 – APPROVING THE AWARD OF CONTRACT TO SWINERTON BUILDERS AND THE TAYLOR GROUP ARCHITECTS FOR THE LOS BANOS CIVIC CENTER PROJECT IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $7,800,000 AND FINDING THE PROJECT EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA). Community & Economic Development Director Souza Elms presented the staff report, which included a PowerPoint presentation. The Civic Center Project includes renovating the former Police Annex Building to serve as a centralized Development Services Center and remodeling interior areas of City Hall to improve customer service, workflow efficiency, and office layout. Staff noted that public input was gathered through a community workshop and an online survey, and that many of the changes are intended to make it easier for residents, developers, and businesses to complete permitting and service needs in one location. Ms. Souza Elms Staff also reviewed the design-build process used for this project, explaining that it allows the City to work directly with the chosen team throughout design to manage costs, schedule, and scope while maintaining quality. The team recommended for award is Swinerton Builders with The Taylor Group Architects, who recently completed the Police Station project for the City, providing familiarity with City standards and operations. The total project budget of $8 million has already been set aside. Staff stated the project is exempt from CEQA. During Council discussion, Mayor Amabile emphasized that the improvements will support long-term operational needs and allow the City to better serve the public without needing to construct a brand-new City Hall building. He stated the project is an investment in improving efficiency and accessibility of services. Council Member Sanders asked for clarification about future opportunities for public input during the design phase. Interim City Manager Brizzee explained the next steps, which include finalizing staffing needs, beginning design work, and providing additional opportunities for public engagement as plans develop. Council Member Chavez asked whether projects of this type are ever completed under budget. The Swinerton representative explained that the progressive design-build model focuses heavily on cost control and alignment of scope to budget from the start. Council discussion concluded with support for the approach and appreciation for the integration of community feedback and phased planning. Motion by Sanders, seconded by Chavez to adopt City Council Resolution No. 7004 – Approving the Award of Contract to Swinerton Builders and the Taylor Group Architects for the Los BAnos Civic Center Project in an Amount not to Exceed $7,800,000 and Finding the Project Exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). The motion carried by the affirmative action of all Council Members present, Lewis absent. CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF CITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION NO. 7005 – AWARDING THE CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT FOR THE BASIN AND STORMWATER CAPTURE PROJECT TO ARCHER CIVIL CONSTRUCTION LLC, IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,199,376.75 AND AUTHORIZING THE INTERIM CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE AGREEMENT AND ISSUE THE NOTICE OF AWARD, AND AMENDING THE FISCAL YEAR 2025-2026 BUDGET TO RECOGNIZE ADDITIONAL GRANT REVENUE IN THE AMOUNT OF $525,000. Acting Public Works Director/Parks & Recreation Director Heim presented the staff report, which included a PowerPoint presentation. The project is a partnership between the City of Los Banos, Grasslands Water District, and Del Puerto Water District, supported by a Prop 68 grant. It will construct three groundwater recharge basins (approximately 185 acres total) on City- owned property near Henry Miller Avenue and Santa Fe Grade to improve stormwater system performance and support long-term water sustainability. The project includes a turnout from the San Luis Canal, flow control structures, and a metered outlet system. The total estimated project cost is $2.75 million, including a 15% contingency. The base construction award recommended is to Archer Civil Construction, LLC for approximately $2.2 million. Funding comes from the Wastewater Collections Capital Fund and includes $1 million in reimbursable grant funds. A revenue adjustment is required to reflect the timing of the grant reimbursement. Construction is expected to begin Fall 2025 with completion by April 2026. A Phase 2 project (installation of pumps) will be bid separately in 2026. Staff noted that 15 bids were received. Council Member Sanders asked about funding availability and cost control for which Mr. Heim explained the contingency included in the project budget and confirmed adequate funding is appropriated. Mayor Amabile added the City will need a similar recharge project on the west side of the community. Motion by Sanders, seconded by Chavez to adopt City Council Resolution No. 7005 – Awarding the Construction Contract for the Basin and Stormwater Capture Project to Archer Civil Construction LLC. In the Amount of $2,199,376.75 and Authorizing the Interim City Manager to Execute the Agreement and Issue the Notice of Award, and Amending the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Budget to Recognize Additional Grant Revenue in the Amount of $525,000. The motion carried by the affirmative action of all Council Members present, Lewis absent. CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF CITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION NO. 7006 – RATIFYING THE CITY MANAGER’S APPROVAL OF THE EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT WITH THE PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR WILLIAM VIA. Interim City Manager Brizzee presented the staff report, highlighting that William Via is a lifelong Los Banos resident, LBHS graduate, U.S. Navy veteran, and previously worked for the City in several Public Works leadership roles before serving as the Public Works Director for the City of Hollister. He has extensive experience managing operations and budgets across multiple Public Works divisions and holds advanced degrees in public administration and legal studies. The agreement provides for a start date of October 27, 2025, annual salary of $224,000, and benefits with medical/dental/vision benefits, PERS retirement, leave accruals, and administrative leave consistent with other department heads. He made note that Mr. Via was in attendance at the meeting with his spouse. Mayor Amabile welcomed Mr. Via back to Los Banos and expressed appreciation for his return. Council Member Sanders noted the timing of the appointment given the incoming City Manager’s previous service as Public Works Director and confirmed coordination was considered. Council Member Chavez welcomed Mr. Via and stated support. Motion by Chavez, seconded by Sanders to adopt City Council Resolution No. 7006 – Ratifying the City Manager’s Approval of the Employment Agreement with the Public Works Director William Via. The motion carried by the affirmative action of all Council Members present, Lewis absent. 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) (SECOND READING & ADOPTION). City Attorney Vaughn presented the staff report, explaining that the first reading occurred at the prior Council meeting. He noted that AB 2192, signed into law in late 2024, made changes to the Uniform Public Construction Cost Accounting Act by raising the thresholds for force account work, informal bidding, and formal bidding for public works projects. The ordinance updates the City’s Municipal Code to align with these new State thresholds and ensure continued compliance. Motion by Sanders, seconded by Chavez to waive the second 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, Lewis absent. Motion by Chavez, seconded by Sanders to adopt 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, Peres, Sanders, Amabile; NOES: None; ABSENT: Lewis. CITY DEPARTMENT REPORTS. Community & Economic Development. Director Souza Elms announced a public hearing on October 22nd at 6:00 p.m. with the Planning Commission regarding the sixth-cycle Housing Element update for 2024–2032. The update is part of a multi-jurisdictional effort with Merced County and includes an overlay district in the city’s zoning ordinance to implement the Housing Element and ensure compliance with state law. Finance. Director Moreno provided an update on her attendance at the League of California Cities Conference in Long Beach, which had over 2,000 attendees including mayors, council members, city managers, and finance directors. She noted that sessions covered topics such as AI, homelessness, and general plan updates. One of the keynote speakers was Erin Brockovich, who gave a motivational speech. No questions were taken from the audience. Fire. Chief Tualla reported on the recent pancake breakfast that was well attended with about 100 community members, serving as a positive public outreach event, Volunteer firefighter recruitment is ongoing, with an informational day scheduled for the 25th. The program includes a support role (assisting with station tasks and rehabilitation) and an active firefighting/EMS role (directly supporting fire and EMS operations), he attended the Merced County Board of Supervisors meeting, where AMR was awarded the county EMS contract. Upcoming meetings with AMR management will address EMS services within Merced County, and training on the new ladder truck will begin soon, including aerial operations and operation of the larger fire apparatus within the city. Human Resources. No Report Parks & Recreation/Public Works. Director Heim provided updates on several upcoming events and ongoing projects. He highlighted the Halloween Fest scheduled for October 25th from 4:00 to 8:30 p.m. at the Exports Complex, which will feature pumpkin painting, crafts, and a maze. Shuttle support will be provided by the school district to address parking challenges, with Jacob High School expected to serve as one of the shuttle locations. He also gave updates on construction projects, noting that the Exports Complex playground and netting are nearly complete, while Shaughnessy Village is progressing with grass installation and upcoming playground and picnic table installations. Additionally, the city continues to make improvements on the Canal Trail through grant support from the San Joaquin River Exchange Water Authority. On the Public Works side, internal overlays on courts and street improvements, including speed bumps, are ongoing. Mr. Heim also reported that the Treatment Plant Solar Project has been completed in partnership with Peninsula Clean Energy, resulting in approximately $380,000 in savings for the city. Regarding the Dan’s Way Project, he stated that it is currently in the design phase, with an estimated construction timeline from Fall 2026 to Summer 2027, and noted that efforts are being made to potentially expedite the process through Caltrans. Finally, he expressed his gratitude to consultants, Caltrans, MCG, and city staff for their support and guidance during his time overseeing public works, acknowledging that this was one of his final updates in the role. Police. Chief Reyna reported that following a recent shooting, all three suspects and the vehicle involved are now in custody. He highlighted the Police Department’s efforts in reducing violent crime shootings, noting a 22% reduction between 2023 and 2024, and approximately a 50% reduction year-to-date compared to last year. Chief Reyna commended the department for their hard work over the weekend in resolving the recent case. He also announced that he and Commander Eddie Drum will attend the Delta Academy graduation to swear in a new officer who will serve in Los Banos, and he plans to introduce the officer at a future council meeting. Additionally, he provided an update on the Spanish Citizen Academy, noting that it is the first Spanish-language program of its kind and is nearing completion with only a few classes remaining. Chief Reyna indicated that final shelter statistics will be shared soon. CITY MANAGER REPORT. Interim City Manager Brizzee began by thanking city staff for their ongoing hard work and dedication. He congratulated William Via on his upcoming start as Public Works Director and recognized Mr. Heim for his exceptional performance as Acting Public Works Director, noting his tireless commitment, handling of additional duties, and management of public works projects over the past several months. Mr. Brizzee also provided an update on the DeAnza project, explaining efforts to expedite the 30% review with Caltrans and bridging a funding gap. He addressed citywide staffing, acknowledging the approval of 19 additional positions this fiscal year, including new hires in police, fire, and other departments, while emphasizing the ongoing need to balance budgetary constraints with staffing requirements. He then gave a detailed update on chromium-6 testing, explained that the city’s wells recently tested above the new maximum contaminant level (MCL) of 10 parts per billion, triggering mandatory notifications to utility customers. He clarified that while levels are above the MCL, the water remains safe to drink. The city submitted its compliance plan to the State Division of Drinking Water, which was approved, allowing until December 2030 to implement wellhead treatment for the city’s 13 wells. Pilot testing using a reduction-coagulation- filtration (RCF) system is currently underway, followed by design and construction phases for each well. Mr. Brizzee noted the project is estimated at approximately $60 million, and the city will explore alternative solutions where possible. He concluded by affirming that the city is actively moving forward with chromium-6 mitigation, with pilot testing results to be shared in future council meetings. He thanked the Council again and offered to address any questions offline regarding the chromium-6 issue. CITY COUNCIL MEMBER REPORTS: DEBORAH LEWIS – DISTRICT 4: Excused absence MITZY PEREZ – DISTRICT 1: Reminded everyone that there are still open positions on the City Commissions, particularly for the District 1, Planning Commission. She encouraged interested applicants to submit their applications by the November 26 deadline, noting that the application is available on the city’s website. EVAN SANDERS – DISTRICT 2: Began by thanking staff for their hard work in preparing materials and being available to answer questions. He then discussed a “public engagement experiment” he conducted, using social media to gather resident input on the council agenda. Mr. Sanders highlighted the importance of giving residents a voice, especially those who may not feel comfortable speaking at meetings, and emphasized that public comments deserve respect and full attention from council members. He noted his accessibility to constituents, providing his contact information and encouraging residents to reach out via phone, email, or social media. Mr. Sanders shared his commitment to being well-informed about residents’ priorities, integrating their input into council discussions, and providing regular agenda breakdowns on his Facebook page to encourage ongoing engagement. He concluded by expressing gratitude to those who have supported and guided him in this process, emphasizing accountability and good government. MARCUS CHAVEZ – DISTRICT 3: Thanked staff for their work and acknowledged Mr. Heim for his hard work and dedication, calling him the hardest working man in the city. He welcomed William Via back to the city and expressed appreciation to Interim City Manager Gary Brizzee for his support and contributions to the city. MICHAEL S. AMABILE – MAYOR: Began by discussing the city’s bypass project and existing general plan, noting that although he had spent 12 years designing and engineering the bypass, now estimated at $700 million, Caltrans will not proceed with it. The bypass is being removed from the general plan primarily because it impacts traffic modeling across the city, and adjustments are being made to reflect realistic future possibilities. He emphasized ongoing work on the Pioneer Quarter, north-south corridors, and east-west grid improvements around the city. He also shared cultural and community updates, including a recent visit to the local museum with curator Dan Nelson, encouraging residents to visit and highlighting the volunteers’ efforts. He mentioned recording an interview for CBS Channel 47 to increase visibility of Los Banos in regional media, noting the importance of being recognized in the broader Valley area. Finally, the Mayor delivered a tribute to Interim City Manager Gary Brizzee, acknowledging his leadership, patience, and dedication during a challenging tenure marked by bargaining unit negotiations, pending lawsuits, staffing shortages, and operational demands. He praised Mr. Brizzee for stabilizing city operations, filling crucial positions, and helping the organization heal. The Mayor expressed gratitude on behalf of the City Council, city employees, and residents for Gary’s service. He concluded by thanking all public forum participants for their engagement and officially adjourned the meeting. ADJOURNMENT. The meeting was adjourned at 8:41 p.m. APPROVED: __/s/ Michael S. Amabile________ Michael S. Amabile, Mayor ATTEST: __/s/ Lucille L. Mallonee___________ Lucille L. Mallonee, City Clerk