Gonzales, LA

Joint City Council/Successor Agency

The Gonzales City Council and Successor Agency will hold a regular meeting with closed sessions on the city manager's performance evaluation, labor negotiations with several employee groups, and two pending lawsuits. The open session includes introducing a new finance manager, approving accounts payable warrants, and honoring Council Member Lorraine Worthy with a proclamation.

• Closed session: City Manager performance evaluation (Gov. Code § 54957)
• Closed session: labor negotiations with police, fire, and other employee groups
• Closed session: litigation claims — Jose Guzman Perez and Duran v. City of Gonzales
• Introduction of new Finance Manager
• Approve Accounts Payable Warrants #54132-54213

Joint City Council/Successor Agency

The Gonzales City Council and affiliated boards will hold a joint meeting to adopt the city's operating budget for fiscal year 2026-2027 and the successor agency budget, approve a property tax transfer for the 771-acre Vista Lucia annexation, and consider several resolutions and routine reports. The agenda also includes a closed session to discuss pending litigation in Duran v. City of Gonzales.

• Resolution No. 2026-53: Adopt FY 2026-2027 operating budget
• Resolution No. SA-2026-03: Adopt Successor Agency budget for FY 2026-2027
• Resolution No. 2026-50: Approve property tax transfer for Vista Lucia annexation (771 acres)
• Resolution No. 2026-51: Certify compliance with state law on taxes and fees
• Resolution No. 2026-52: Set appropriations subject to limit for FY 2026-2027

Joint City Council/Successor Agency

The Gonzales City Council will hold public hearings on renewing the police department's military equipment policy and confirming annual assessments for several benefit and maintenance districts. They will also consider a legal services contract for contamination claims, a funding agreement with TAMC, and discuss term limits and surplus land. The consent agenda includes routine approvals and reports, and the meeting ends with a closed session for the city manager's evaluation.

• Resolution 2026-41: Renew military equipment policy (AB 481 report)
• Resolutions 2026-42 to 2026-49: Levy annual assessments for California Breeze, Canyon Creek, Industrial Park, Cipriani Estates districts
• Resolution 2026-40: Legal services contract with Grossman Kelly PLLC for contamination claims
• Resolution 2026-38: Master funding agreement with TAMC (2026-2029)
• Resolution 2026-39: Canvass of June 2, 2026 primary election results

Planning Commission

The Gonzales Planning Commission will vote to extend the Conditional Use Permit for the Gonzales Cooler Development Project on Gloria Road by two years, until August 20, 2028. The agenda includes a staff report on the annexation and use permit for the agricultural cooler. The meeting also includes routine approval of previous minutes and public comment periods.

• Adoption of Resolution No. PC2026-01 extending Conditional Use Permit PL2023-02 for the Gonzales Cooler Development Project to August 20, 2028
• Review of staff report for the Gloria Road Agricultural Cooler Annexation and Use Permit Project
• Approval of Planning Commission minutes from January 26, 2026

Measure K Oversight Committee

The Measure K Oversight Committee will consider approving Resolution No. MKOC 2026-03, which recommends a prioritized list of services and programs to be funded with Measure K tax proceeds for the 2026-2027 fiscal year, including specific funding allocations. The committee will also consider an appointment to fill a vacancy. The meeting includes approval of prior meeting minutes and public comment.

• Consider Approval of Resolution No. MKOC 2026-03 recommending the prioritized list of programs and funding allocations for FY 2026-2027 Measure K tax proceeds
• Consider appointment to the Measure K Oversight Committee (current members listed: Vice Chair Scott Funk, Committee Members Jennifer Ortega Uribe, Erin Askew, Chairperson Lorraine Worthy)
• Approve April 29, 2026 meeting minutes (consent agenda)

Joint Gonzales City Council/Successor Agency

The Gonzales City Council will consider adopting the police department's annual AB 481 report on military equipment use, approve a fiscal year 2026-2027 fee schedule, and hold a public hearing on city workforce vacancies and retention efforts. Consent items include calling a November 2026 general municipal election, adopting Measure K spending priorities, establishing an on-call consultant list, and approving engineer reports for assessment districts.

• Gonzales Police Department AB 481 Annual Report 2025-2026
• Resolution No. 2026-24 establishing cost-for-services fee schedule for FY 2026-2027
• Public hearing on vacancies, recruitment, and retention efforts
• Resolution No. 2026-22 calling a general municipal election for November 3, 2026
• Resolution No. 2026-23 adopting Measure K oversight committee's recommended spending list for FY 2026-2027

Joint Gonzales City Council/Successor Agency

The Gonzales City Council and Successor Agency will consider a resolution to approve interim funding for FY 2026-2027 and continue the budget through August 31, 2026. They will also hear presentations on youth council proclamations and a fee schedule continuance. The meeting includes consent items such as warrants and agreements with NHA Advisors and the Boys and Girls Club.

• Resolution No. 2026-26: Interim funding for FY 2026-2027 and budget continuance until August 31, 2026
• Continuation of FY 2026-2027 Cost for Services Fee Schedule (item 7.1)
• Proclamations recognizing Youth Commissioners Shelby Anderson and Ricardo Rodriguez Perez, and Gonzales Youth Council's 10-Year Anniversary
• Resolution No. 2026-25: Agreement with NHA Advisors, LLC for independent financial advisory services
• Resolution No. 2026-27: MOU with Boys and Girls Club of Monterey County for program services at the Teen Center

Planning Commission

The May 11, 2026 Regular Planning Commission meeting is cancelled because no business or hearings were set and a quorum will not be present. The agenda consists solely of this cancellation notice.

Joint Gonzales City Council/Successor Agency

The Gonzales City Council/Successor Agency will consider Resolution 2026-21, which designates specific street reconstruction projects (Alta Minor Street, Fourth Street, Rincon Road, and Fifth Street slurry seal) as the city's priority for FY 2026-2027 SB 1 funding. The consent agenda includes approval of minutes, accounts payable warrants, department activity reports, fireworks sales permits, a pavement management agreement with TAMC, and an electronic signature policy. The meeting also features proclamations for National Public Works Week and recognizing Mayor Pro Tem Liz Silva as Ag Woman of the Year.

• Resolution 2026-21: Designating reconstruction of Alta Minor Street, Fourth Street, Rincon Road, and slurry seal on Fifth Street as priority project for SB 1 funding
• Resolution 2026-19: Approving Pavement Management Program Update 2025 Reimbursement Agreement with TAMC
• Resolution 2026-20: Approving an Electronic Signature Policy
• Fireworks Sales Permits 2026
• Approve Accounts Payable Warrants #53835-53895

Measure K Temporary Use Tax Advisory Committee - Regular Meeting

The Measure K Oversight Committee will consider a resolution recommending how to allocate approximately $810,000 in transaction and use tax proceeds for the 2026-2027 fiscal year. The proposed priorities include funding debt service for the Community Pool renovation, youth programs, and after-school activities. The committee is expected to vote on the resolution after public comment and discussion.

• Projected Measure K revenue of about $810,000 for FY 2026-2027
• $130,000 to fund debt service for Community Pool renovation
• $95,000 for Youth Services/Development including GY21CSI and Community Center programming
• $80,000 for After School 'Kid-Power' Program
• $70,000 for Gonzales Day Camp

City Council - Joint City Council and Gonzales Successor Agency

The Gonzales City Council will hold a public hearing to adopt Ordinance No. 2020-127 amending storm water quality management and discharge control. They will also receive a COVID-19 update and consider a letter to Governor Newsom requesting vaccination prioritization for essential farmworkers. The meeting includes canvassing the November 3 general municipal election results, administering oaths of office, and approving routine consent items.

• Public hearing on Ordinance No. 2020-127 (storm water quality management)
• Consider letter to Governor Newsom prioritizing farmworkers for COVID-19 vaccine
• Approve Resolution No. 2020-65 canvassing November 3 election results
• Administer oaths to Jose L. Rios and Scott Funk
• Approve Amendment No. 1 to agreement with Chualar Unified School District for HotSpot loan program extension through June 2021

The Gonzales City Council unanimously approved consent agenda items, certified the November 3 election results, and administered oaths of office to Mayor Jose L. Rios and Mayor Pro Tem Scott Funk. The Council adopted Ordinance 2020-127 amending storm water quality management, approved resolutions and an agreement to implement a local transaction and use tax, and sent a letter to the Governor on COVID-19. A proclamation for outgoing Mayor Orozco was moved to the January 4, 2021 meeting.

• Approved Consent Agenda No. 1 (meeting minutes, warrants, HotSpot loan amendment, AB 1600 impact fee report, treasurer report) (4-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda No. 2 (Resolutions 2020-66, 2020-67, and HdL agreement for local tax implementation) (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 2020-65 certifying November 3, 2020 election results (4-0)
• Administered Oaths of Allegiance to Mayor Jose L. Rios and Mayor Pro Tem Scott Funk
• Adopted Ordinance 2020-127 amending City Code Title 10, Chapter 10.28 on storm water quality management (5-0)
• Approved letter to Governor Newsom regarding COVID-19 (5-0)
• Moved proclamation recognizing Maria Orozco to January 4, 2021 meeting

City Council - Joint City Council and Gonzales Successor Agency

The Gonzales City Council and Successor Agency will discuss renaming Elko Street to Andy Matsui Way and receive a presentation on the Community Center Complex project timeline, community engagement, and preliminary financing plan. The consent agenda includes approval of accounts payable warrants and an extension of the consulting agreement with economic development consultant Angel Johnstone through June 30, 2024. The council will also receive an update on COVID-19.

• Discussion on renaming Elko Street to Andy Matsui Way
• Extension of consulting services agreement with Angel Johnstone through June 30, 2024
• Presentation on Community Center Complex project timeline, community engagement, and preliminary financing plan
• Approval of City accounts payable warrants #44221-44272
• Approval of Successor Agency warrants #1464-1466

The City Council decided to withdraw the proposal to rename Elko Street to Andy Matsui Way after hearing public opposition. The Council received presentations on the Community Center Complex project and COVID-19 updates, and approved several consent agenda items.

• Withdrew request to rename Elko Street to Andy Matsui Way
• Received presentation on Community Center Complex project
• Received update on COVID-19
• Approved Joint City Council and Gonzales Electric Authority minutes
• Approved City Accounts Payable Warrants #44221-44272
• Approved Successor Agency Warrants #1464-1466
• Approved extension to consulting services agreement with Angel Johnstone
• Youth Commission reported on mental health infographics and community support

City Council - Joint City Council and Gonzales Successor Agency

The council will vote on a one-year contract with California Strategies, LLC for grant writing services not to exceed $65,000. Presentations include updates on the Soledad Education Center by Hartnell College and a school update from Superintendent Yvette Irving. Consent items include a letter supporting the federal Microgrid Act. The council will also receive a COVID-19 update.

• Consider approval of contract with California Strategies, LLC for grant writing services up to $65,000
• Consider letter supporting the Microgrid Act by Congressman Jimmy Panetta
• Presentation on Soledad Education Center by Hartnell College
• School update by Superintendent Yvette Irving
• Update on COVID-19

The City Council approved a contract for grant writing services and unanimously supported federal Microgrid Act legislation. The meeting also included presentations on a new education center and a COVID-19 update.

• Approved March 15, 2021 Joint Council minutes [UNANIMOUS]
• Approved City Accounts Payable Warrants #44583-44656 [UNANIMOUS]
• Approved Successor Agency Warrants #1472-1474 [UNANIMOUS]
• Approved contract with California Strategies, LLC for grant writing [UNANIMOUS]
• Approved letter of support for Microgrid Act legislation [UNANIMOUS]

City Council - Joint City Council and Planning Commission Meeting

The Gonzales City Council and Planning Commission will hold a joint workshop to review the Administrative Draft Vista Lucia Specific Plan and annexation. The meeting includes a staff report, public comment, and discussion, but no formal action is expected. They will also approve the minutes from the prior workshop held on April 12, 2021.

• Review of Administrative Draft Vista Lucia Specific Plan and potential annexation
• Approval of joint workshop minutes from April 12, 2021

The City Council accepted the April 12, 2021 workshop minutes unanimously. The Council discussed the Administrative Draft Vista Lucia Specific Plan and Annexation, which will move into the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) phase. No final decisions were made.

• Accepted April 12, 2021 workshop minutes (5-0)
• Accepted April 12, 2021 workshop minutes (4-0)
• Vista Lucia Specific Plan to enter EIR phase
• Vista Lucia Specific Plan to undergo 45-day public review

City Council - Joint City Council and Gonzales Successor Agency

The Gonzales City Council and Successor Agency will consider consent items including approval of accounts payable, meeting minutes, a youth development consulting contract, and a lease for the former medical clinic. Regular agenda items include appointing a new planning commissioner, reappointing two others, approving a professional services contract for the Community Center Complex project, purchasing a fire engine for $30,000, and hiring two seasonal firefighters.

• Approve resolution authorizing a $48,000 consulting agreement with Michelle Slade/C4 Consulting for youth development and leadership
• Approve a 5-year lease with Gonzales Medical Center, Inc. at $500/month for the former Gonzales Medical Clinic property
• Consider purchase of a 2006 KME Type 1 fire engine from Monterey County Regional Fire District for up to $30,000
• Authorize hiring two additional seasonal/limited-term firefighters at a cost not to exceed $82,000 over two fiscal years
• Approve a professional services contract with Swinerton Consulting for program and construction management on the Community Center Complex project (funding $75,000 total)

The City Council unanimously approved a professional services contract with Swinerton Consulting for program and construction management on the Community Center Complex project. The council also approved appointments to the Planning Commission and Measure K Oversight Committee, a used fire engine purchase, seasonal firefighters, and a memorandum of agreement with Monterey County for an Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District. Two items were tabled: a youth development services contract and a lease for the former medical clinic.

• Approved Swinerton Consulting contract for Community Center Complex project (4-0)
• Approved MOA with Monterey County for Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District (4-0)
• Approved purchase of used fire engine up to $30,000 (4-0)
• Approved seasonal firefighters (4-0)
• Approved Planning Commission appointments and reappointments (4-0)
• Approved Measure K Oversight Committee appointments (4-0)
• Tabled $48,000 youth development services contract (4-0)
• Tabled lease with Gonzales Medical Center at $500/month (4-0)

Planning Commission - Regular Meeting

The Commission will conduct a scoping meeting to gather input on the environmental impact report for the Puente Del Monte Specific Plan, a proposed 501-acre development east of Gonzales. No decisions will be made; this is an early consultation to identify key issues and alternatives. The consent agenda includes approval of the November 24, 2025 meeting minutes.

• Puente Del Monte Specific Plan EIR scoping meeting – 501-acre project by Jackson Family Investments east of city limits
• Consent agenda: approval of November 24, 2025 Planning Commission minutes

City Council - Regular Meeting

The Gonzales City Council and Successor Agency will consider releasing a joint Request for Proposals with Soledad, Greenfield, and King City to select a single contractor for solid waste, recycling, and organic waste collection. They will also vote on a Memorandum of Understanding with Tri-Cities Disposal regarding amendments to the existing collection agreements. Additionally, the council will discuss establishing a Housing Development Ad Hoc Committee focused on DR Horton projects.

• Release of RFP for solid waste, recycling, and organics collection as a single franchise zone with four cities
• Approval of Resolution 2023-12 for MOU with Tri-Cities Disposal and Recycling Services
• Establishment of a City Council Housing Development Ad Hoc Committee for DR Horton
• Approve consent items: February 21, 2023 meeting minutes and accounts payable warrants #48220-48266
• Central Coast Community Energy annual update presentation

The City Council approved a request for proposals to select a contractor for solid waste collection across four cities and approved a memorandum of understanding with Tri-Cities Disposal and Recycling Services. The Council also established a Housing Development Ad Hoc Committee.

• Approved Joint Council and Successor Agency minutes (unanimous)
• Approved City accounts payable warrants #48220-48266 (unanimous)
• Approved RFP for solid waste collection contractor (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2023-12 regarding MOU with Tri-Cities Disposal (unanimous)
• Established Housing Development Ad Hoc Committee — DR Horton
• Appointed Council Members Orozco and Worthy to Housing Ad Hoc Committee

City Council - 2nd Meeting of the Month

The Gonzales City Council and Successor Agency will hold a joint meeting to consider routine consent items and receive presentations on the Salinas Valley Safe Routes to School Plan and a separated bike lane pilot project on a portion of Fifth Street, as well as the Draft Fiscal Year 2024 Gonzales Implementation Action Plan. Public comment will be taken, and council may provide direction on both items.

• Certificates of Recognition to Community Health Workers from Senator Caballero's office
• Consent agenda includes approval of minutes, accounts payable warrants #48267-48352, and department activity reports
• Consider Resolution 2023-13 ratifying a local emergency due to statewide winter storms/atmospheric river
• Salinas Valley Safe Routes to School Plan and proposed separated bike lane pilot project on a portion of Fifth Street
• Presentation of Draft Fiscal Year 2024 Gonzales Implementation Action Plan

City Council - Regular Meeting

The City Council is considering an ordinance regarding agricultural resource mitigation and several professional service agreements. The agenda also includes discussions on financial feasibility services, grant writing, and budget software.

• Ordinance No. 2023-136: Agricultural Resource Mitigation
• Professional Services Agreement with Willdan Financial Services not to exceed $7,500 for an impact fee study
• Grant writing services agreement with California Consulting, LLC not to exceed $100,000
• Budget and planning software agreement with OpenGov for $69,078 over three fiscal years
• Financial feasibility services contracts with Keyser Marston Associates, Inc., Willdan Financial Services, and Harris & Associates Inc.

The City Council approved an ordinance regarding agricultural resource mitigation and several consent agenda items. A proposal for grant writing services was tabled for further discussion.

• Approved March 20, 2023, Joint City Council and Successor Agency minutes (4-0)
• Approved City Council Special Meeting - March 23, 2023 minutes (4-0)
• Approved City Accounts Payable Warrants #48353-48401 (4-0)
• Approved professional services agreement with Willdan Financial Services for impact fee study (4-0)
• Approved contracts for financial feasibility services from Keyser Marston Associates, Inc., Willdan Financial Services, and Harris & Associates Inc. (4-0)
• Approved OpenGov budget and planning software agreement (4-0)
• Tabled California Consulting, LLC grant writing services agreement (5-0)
• Approved Ordinance No. 2023-136 regarding Agricultural Resource Mitigation (5-0)

City Council - 2nd Meeting of the Month

The Gonzales City Council and Successor Agency will hold a public hearing and consider adopting Ordinance No. 2023-136, which adds Chapter 12.150 (Agricultural Resource Mitigation) to the city's zoning regulations. The council will also receive a presentation on a conceptual affordable housing plan for the Vista Lucia Specific Plan. Consent items include authorizing a grant writing services agreement not to exceed $100,000 and a loan application to the USDA for the first phase of the Community Center project. Closed sessions address the City Manager evaluation and negotiations for property adjacent to APN 020-056-004.

• Consider adoption of Ordinance No. 2023-136 adding Chapter 12.150 – Agricultural Resource Mitigation to Title 12 (Zoning Regulations)
• Presentation on Conceptual Affordable Housing Plan for the Vista Lucia Specific Plan
• Authorize agreement with California Consulting, LLC for grant writing services on an as-needed basis, not to exceed $100,000
• Authorize submission of a loan application to the US Department of Agriculture for partial funding of the first phase of the Community Center project
• Closed session to discuss purchase/sale/exchange/lease of property adjacent to APN 020-056-004

The City Council unanimously approved the consent agenda (items 5-14), including a grant writing services contract with California Consulting LLC for up to $100,000 and co-sponsorship of three special events. The council also unanimously approved Resolution No. 2023-14 to authorize staff to submit a USDA loan application for the first phase of the Community Center project. Additionally, council directed staff to return in May with an update on the Fifth Street pilot program after concerns about vehicle access.

• Approved consent agenda items 5-14 (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 2023-14 to authorize USDA loan application for community center (5-0)
• Directed staff to bring Fifth Street pilot program discussion to May meeting (consensus)
• Moved item 15 from consent to regular agenda after noticing error

City Council - Regular Meeting

The Gonzales City Council and Successor Agency will hear a progress report on the Separated Bike Lane Pilot Project on Fifth Street and consider accepting the Fiscal Year 2021-2022 audited financial statements. The council will also enter closed session to evaluate the City Manager. Consent items include approval of accounts payable warrants and a request for waiver of fireworks permit application fees.

• Progress report on Separated Bike Lane Pilot Project on Fifth Street
• Acceptance of Fiscal Year 2021-2022 Audited Financial Statements and Management Report
• Closed session for City Manager evaluation
• Presentation of Proclamation No. 2023-01 declaring May 2023 as Poppy Month
• Consider waiver of application fees for Fireworks Sales Permit for Shield Bearers and Spartan 300 Club

The Council approved a new employment agreement for City Manager Trevin W. Barber with a $250,000 base salary and 3% annual increase. The Council also directed modifications to the Separated Bike Lane Pilot Project (extend one month, remove wave delineators, stagger water troughs, eliminate orange delineators). As the Successor Agency, the Council recognized a potential transfer of low/moderate income housing assets and appointed a board member to the Oversight Board. A proposed ordinance on dangerous weapons and firearms was cancelled.

• Approved Proclamation No. 2023-01 declaring May 2023 as Poppy Month (5-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda including Accounts Payable warrants and fee waiver for fireworks permit (5-0 after discussion)
• Directed modifications to Separated Bike Lane Pilot Project: extend pilot one month, remove wave delineators, stagger water troughs, eliminate orange delineators (consensus)
• Approved City Manager Employment Agreement: $250,000 base salary, 3% annual increase, other benefits (5-0)
• Approved 2023 City Council meeting schedule (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution recognizing potential transfer of low/moderate income housing assets (Successor Agency, 5-0)
• Adopted Resolution appointing Successor Agency Board member to the Oversight Board (5-0)
• Approved Successor Agency minutes (5-0)

City Council - 2nd Meeting of the Month

The Gonzales City Council and Successor Agency will hold a joint meeting to consider several routine consent items and two major regular agenda items. The Council will hear a presentation and authorize staff to issue a notice of intent to award a design-build contract for the Community Center Complex Project. They will also conduct a public hearing and vote on a series of actions for the Gloria Road Agricultural Cooler Project, including adopting a mitigated negative declaration, amending the general plan, pre-zoning the property to industrial, and initiating a 48.97-acre annexation with LAFCO.

• Consider approval of a notice of intent to award the design-build contract for the Community Center Complex Project to Otto Construction/WRNS Team
• Adopt resolutions, introduce an ordinance, and initiate annexation for the Gloria Road Agricultural Cooler Project on a 48.97-acre site
• Authorize Vortex Industries to remove and replace two bay doors at the Public Works Corporation Yard for up to $50,000
• Approve purchase of a New Holland backhoe from Coastal Tractor for $99,047 and surplus sale of the existing backhoe
• Set annual assessments for multiple benefit and landscaping/lighting districts (California Breeze, Canyon Creek, Gonzales Industrial Park, Cipriani Estates)

The City Council approved resolutions to adopt an environmental study and amend the general plan for the Gloria Road Agricultural Cooler Project. The Council also approved the design-build contract for the Community Center Complex and approved multiple benefit assessment districts.

• Approved Community Center Complex design-build contract (5-0)
• Adopted Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration for Agricultural Cooler (4-0)
• Approved General Plan amendments for Agricultural Cooler (4-0)
• Introduced ordinance to pre-zone Agricultural Cooler property to Industrial (4-0)
• Approved initiation of 48.97-acre annexation request for Agricultural Cooler (4-0)
• Approved Resolution 2023-18 for California Breeze Parks and Open Spaces Assessment District
• Approved Resolution 2023-19 for Canyon Creek Benefit Assessment District
• Approved Resolution 2023-20 for Canyon Creek Parks and Open Spaces Assessment District

City Council - Regular Meeting

The Gonzales City Council and related boards will meet jointly to consider multiple items. They will vote on a $4.9 million design-build contract for the Community Center Complex, discuss proposed district election maps, and consider declaring Juneteenth a paid holiday. Other actions include accepting completion of the skate park Phase 2, pre-zoning the Gonzales Cooler property to industrial, and approving an employment agreement for the city manager.

• Approve $4,900,446 design-build contract for Community Center Complex with Otto Construction/WRNS Team
• Discuss and provide feedback on draft district boundary maps for district-based elections (Public Hearing No. 4)
• Consider declaring Juneteenth (June 19) an official city holiday via Resolution No. 2023-35
• Accept Phase 2 of the Skate Park as complete and release retention monies
• Authorize $15,500 annual contract with ESRI for GIS mapping software

The City Council approved the employment agreement for City Manager Carmen Gil, approved the completion of Phase 2 of the Skate Park, adopted an ordinance for pre-zoning the Cooler Development property to Industrial, and declared Juneteenth an official city holiday. The Council also continued a public hearing on a fee schedule.

• Approved Carmen Gil as City Manager (5-0)
• Approved Phase 2 of Skate Park complete (5-0)
• Approved pre-zoning Cooler Development to Industrial (4-0)
• Approved Juneteenth as official city holiday (5-0)
• Approved GIS software agreement ($15,500 annual)
• Continued public hearing on fee schedule to June 20
• Approved consent agenda items including warrants and minutes
• Council moved forward with district-based election maps

City Council - 2nd Meeting of the Month

The Gonzales City Council is holding a public hearing to give final approval to a district map and election sequencing plan for transitioning to by-district elections, and will introduce an ordinance establishing the new system. The council will also consider multiple public hearings to confirm annual assessments for various benefit and maintenance districts for FY 2023-2024. Additionally, they will discuss a water shortage contingency plan, declare an emergency for Well 5 repairs not to exceed $75,000, and accept the police department's AB 481 annual report.

• Public hearing and final approval of district map for by-district elections (Ordinance 2023-139)
• Emergency authorization for Well 5 repair work by Salinas Pump Company, up to $75,000
• Adoption of new fee schedule for city services for FY 2023-2024
• Confirm assessments for California Breeze, Canyon Creek, Industrial Park, and Cipriani Estates districts
• Police Department AB 481 annual report acceptance

The City Council introduced an ordinance to implement by-district elections and approved a new cost for services fee schedule. Several assessment district resolutions were moved to a future meeting. The council also approved a series of administrative resolutions via the consent agenda.

• Introduced Ordinance No. 2023-139 to establish by-district elections (4-0)
• Approved Resolution No. 2023-32 establishing the FY 2023-2024 Cost for Services Fee Schedule (4-0)
• Moved Resolutions No. 2023-44 through 2023-51 regarding assessment districts to July 17, 2023 (4-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda items including Resolutions 2023-36, 2023-40, 2023-41, 2023-42, 2023-43, and 2023-52 (Unanimous)
• Approved $75,000 emergency repair work by Salinas Pump Company for Well 5 (via Consent Agenda)
• Approved Master Services Agreement with Schaaf & Wheeler for Johnson Canyon Water Main Project (via Consent Agenda)
• Approved Water Shortage Contingency Plan (via Consent Agenda)
• Designated General Street Maintenance as the FY 2023-2024 priority project for SB 1 funding (via Consent Agenda)

City Council - 2nd Meeting of the Month

The City Council, Successor Agency, and Planning Commission meet jointly to receive an update on the Vista Lucia Annexation Project, a transformative development that could triple Gonzales' population. The Council also holds public hearings to confirm annual assessments for four benefit and maintenance districts (California Breeze, Canyon Creek, Gonzales Industrial Park, Cipriani Estates). Other items include approval of a youth leadership consulting agreement and renewal of the police department's military equipment policy.

• Vista Lucia Annexation Project update (joint with Planning Commission)
• Public hearings to levy annual assessments for California Breeze, Canyon Creek, Gonzales Industrial Park, and Cipriani Estates districts
• Approval of agreement with Michelle Slade-C4 Consulting for youth leadership development services
• Acceptance of Police Department's AB 481 annual military equipment report and renewal of Ordinance 2022-131
• Consent agenda including approval of meeting minutes, warrants, and department activity reports

The City Council approved a consent agenda including budget minutes, accounts payable warrants, and department reports. Council Member Silva questioned specific warrant amounts and requested clearer descriptions for future invoices.

• Approved June 20, 2023 Budget Meeting minutes
• Approved June 20, 2023 Regular Meeting minutes
• Approved Successor Agency Warrants #1679-1680
• Approved City Warrants #48762-48913
• Approved agreement with Michelle Slade-C4 Consulting for youth leadership services
• Approved Police Department Activity Report
• Approved Public Works/City Engineer Department Activity Report
• Approved Community Engagement & Recreation Activity Report

City Council - Regular Meeting

The Gonzales City Council and Successor Agency will hold a public hearing on Ordinance No. 2023-139 to establish by-district elections. They will also consider a grant application to extend city water and sewer service to Alpine Camp, approve Water and Sewer Capital Improvement Programs, and conduct a rate study workshop. Consent items include a five-year contract with Axon Enterprises for Taser equipment at $7,800 per year, a property tax transfer for the Gloria Road agricultural cooler annexation (48.97 acres), and an $81,600 emergency pool heater replacement.

• Public hearing on Ordinance No. 2023-139 establishing by-district elections
• Grant application to State Water Resources Control Board for water/sewer extension to Alpine Camp
• Approval of Water and Sewer Capital Improvement Programs
• Water and Sewer Rate Study Workshop for feedback
• Consent: Axon Enterprises Taser contract ($7,800/yr for 5 years); property tax transfer for Gloria Road annexation (48.97 acres); pool heater replacement ($81,600)

The City Council approved a resolution to implement by-district elections, approved water and sewer capital improvement programs, and authorized a grant application for water and sewer service to Alpine Camp. The council also approved several contracts and agreements, including a property tax transfer for a road project and a contract for Taser equipment.

• Approved by-district elections ordinance (unanimous)
• Approved water and sewer capital improvement programs (unanimous)
• Approved SWRCB grant for Alpine Camp water/sewer service (4-0)
• Approved property tax transfer for Gloria Road cooler (unanimous)
• Approved Taser equipment contract with Axon Enterprises (unanimous)
• Approved bond counsel services for Community Center Complex (unanimous)
• Approved transportation agency funding agreement (unanimous)
• Tabled community pool heater replacement item (unanimous)

City Council - 2nd Meeting of the Month

This joint meeting of the Gonzales City Council, Successor Agency, and Planning Commission will receive the 2022 Draft General Plan Annual Progress Report and provide direction on strategies for the 2023 Housing Element to address state housing requirements. The Council will also consider approving an encroachment permit for Valdez Auto Sales to use Alta Street right-of-way for vehicle display, and receive a progress report on the Community Center Complex Project. Closed session will discuss pending litigation (claims of Doughty and McCormick).

• Receive 2022 Draft General Plan Annual Progress Report; provide comments and direction
• Provide direction to staff and consultants on strategies for the 2023 Housing Element
• Consider approval of encroachment permit for Valdez Auto Sales to use portion of Alta Street right-of-way for vehicle display; cost determination
• Authorize City Manager to execute MOU with County of Monterey’s Assessor Office to receive parcel records for GIS program
• Progress report on Community Center Complex Project; receive feedback

The joint meeting with the Planning Commission received updates on the General Plan annual report and Housing Element Strategy but took no formal action. The regular council meeting unanimously approved the consent agenda, which included authorizing an MOU with the County Assessor for parcel records, and approved warrants and minutes. In closed session, the council voted unanimously to reject two claims (Doughty and McCormick). Additionally, the council directed staff to refine the Community Center Complex design and return with options.

• Approved consent agenda unanimously (including MOU with County Assessor, warrants, minutes)
• Rejected claim of Doughty (unanimous, closed session)
• Rejected claim of McCormick (unanimous, closed session)
• Directed staff to work with contractor and return with revised Community Center Complex plans (consensus, no formal vote)

City Council - Regular Meeting

The Gonzales City Council and Successor Agency will consider consent items including a $55,000 grant for the Gonzales Cares Program, receive a follow-up report on the Community Center Complex project with public feedback on seating capacity, and introduce an ordinance to streamline permitting for electric vehicle charging stations. A closed session will address pending litigation and a lease negotiation for the city's water tower.

• Accept $55,000 grant from Community Foundation for Monterey County for Gonzales Cares Community Health Worker program
• Follow-up report on Community Center Complex project with seating capacity and layout direction
• Introduction of Ordinance 2023-140 to add streamlined permitting for EV charging stations to city code
• Appointment of voting delegate for League of California Cities Conference
• Closed session: litigation Madera v. City of Gonzales and lease negotiation for water tower near 5th Street and Highway 101

The City Council approved a grant for the Gonzales Cares Program and introduced an ordinance to streamline electric vehicle charging station permits. The Council also directed staff to explore expanding the Community Center hall to accommodate 300-350 people.

• Approved $55,000 grant for Community Health Worker aspect of Gonzales Cares Program (4-0)
• Introduced Ordinance 2023-140 to add streamlined permitting for EV charging stations (4-0)
• Directed staff to explore expanding Community Center hall to 300-350 people
• Appointed Council Member Orozco as voting delegate for League of California Cities Conference (4-0)

City Council - 2nd Meeting of the Month

The Gonzales City Council and Successor Agency will consider several items including a public hearing to adopt an ordinance streamlining permits for electric vehicle charging stations, introducing an ordinance authorizing police use of a drone, approving a $500,000 contract for the Community Center Complex project, and authorizing staff to initiate the Proposition 218 process for water and sewer rate studies. The agenda also includes a presentation on the D'Arrigo H2A housing project and a closed session to discuss lease of the city's water tower property.

• Public hearing to adopt Ordinance No. 2023-140 streamlining EV charging station permits
• Introduce Ordinance No. 2023-141 authorizing police drone use and purchase
• Approve Resolution No. 2023-60 for $500,000 contract with Harris Associates for Community Center Complex project
• Authorize staff to initiate Proposition 218 process for water and sewer rate studies
• Presentation on D'Arrigo H2A housing project: 139 units for agricultural workers

The City Council unanimously approved initiating a Proposition 218 process to consider water and sewer rate changes, following a study presentation. The council also approved a $500,000 master services agreement with Harris Associates for the Community Center Complex project and a three-year landscape maintenance contract with Smith & Enright Landscaping worth $82,719 annually. A public hearing was held on an ordinance amending building regulations, but no decision was recorded in the minutes.

• Approved Resolution 2023-61: MOU with IAFF Local 5388 for 2023-2024 (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2023-60: $500,000 master services agreement with Harris Associates for Community Center Complex project (unanimous)
• Directed staff to initiate Proposition 218 process for water and sewer rate study (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes, warrants, proclamation, and grant acceptance (unanimous)
• Awarded landscape maintenance contract to Smith & Enright Landscaping for 3 years at $82,719/year plus $20,000 contingency (unanimous)

City Council - 2nd Meeting of the Month

The Gonzales City Council, Successor Agency, and Public Financing Authority will hold a joint meeting including a public hearing on Resolution 2023-67 to establish new water and sewer rates for calendar years 2024 through 2028. The council will also consider accepting $704,857 in Community Development Block Grant funding for Phase 1 of the Community Center Complex, creating new positions for a Public Works Lead Worker and Police Officer Recruit, and authorizing withdrawal of donated funds from a foundation account for the community center. Several department activity reports and minutes from the previous meeting are on the consent agenda.

• Public hearing and potential adoption of Resolution 2023-67 setting new water and sewer rates for 2024-2028
• Authorize a subrecipient agreement with Monterey County for $704,857 in CDBG funding for Community Center Complex Phase 1
• Establish a Public Works Lead Worker position focused on utilities (Resolution 2023-68)
• Establish a Police Officer Recruit position, including job description and salary (Resolution 2023-69)
• Authorize withdrawal of donated funds for the Dennis and Janice Caprara Community Center from the Community Foundation account (Resolution 2023-70)

The Gonzales City Council unanimously approved a five-year schedule of water and sewer rate increases, with water rates rising up to 50% and sewer rates up to 20% over the period. The decision followed a public hearing where 286 protests were submitted but did not meet the majority protest threshold. The council also approved several consent agenda items, including a $704,857 CDBG subrecipient agreement for the Community Center Complex and new job classifications for a public works lead worker and a police officer recruit.

• Approved Resolution 2023-67 establishing new water and sewer rates for 2024-2028 (unanimous)
• Approved $704,857 CDBG subrecipient agreement with County of Monterey for Community Center Complex Phase 1 (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2023-68 adding a Public Works Lead Worker position focused on utilities (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2023-69 establishing Police Officer Recruit classification and salary (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2023-70 authorizing withdrawal of community center funds from Community Foundation account (unanimous)
• Directed staff to seek bids for replacement of community pool heater (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes, warrants, and department reports (unanimous)