City Council - Regular Meeting

Gentlemen, I'm going to go ahead and call the council meeting to order. Today, November the 13th, we have a young warrior fan. Iser is going to lead us in the pledge of allegiance. Would you please come forward, my friend? [applause] [applause] Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands. One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Professional. [applause]

The safest place in Newark today is right here. [laughter] On a more serious note, uh before we begin, ladies and gentlemen, um it's with sadness that I indicate that we are going to close tonight's council meeting in memory of Steve Catabet. Mr. Catabay is the father-in-law of council member Julie Delcantio. Council member.

Yes, your honor. Thank you. Yes. My father-in-law in whom I met when I was about 16 years old. I actually remember the first time that I met him. I was going to go on a date with his son and he just asked me, "Um, where are you from? Where's your father from? Where's your parents from? where's your grandparents from? And so we were just on this whole tree uh this family's tree and actually it was a very nice meeting and he did meet my family as well and we decided that we were going to keep um this family together and we continued on and so he's actually been my father-in-law for over 20 years and he's been in my life since I was a teenager as well. And so Steve Kacho Kataba was born on August 12, 1936 as the son of Hermenia and Bonafasio. And so he did pass at 89. And so that is a very wonderful age. He did pass on November 4th, 2025. He was one of eight children and he settled in Alama County and he raised his three children, Jeffrey, Stephanie, and Bradley. and his career was in mechanical engineering. He spent retirement with his five grandchildren, Jalila, Isaac, Matteo, Leilani, and Michaela. And he was also a longtime resident of Newark. He really loved fishing at the Lakeshore Park, attending parties at the Newark Community Center, dancing and cooking, and [clears throat] in fact, even a few months ago, we still have some photos and um video of him dancing. And so he will be laid to rest tomorrow at Altamees Mesa Cemetery in Palo Alto. Thank you.

Thank you, council member. And uh please know our thoughts and prayers of the entire New Yorker community are with you and Jeff on the passing of his father. And as I mentioned, ladies and gentlemen, we will be closing tonight's council meeting in his memory. I'd like to invite Mr. Terren Singh to join me as we recognize seek American Awareness and Appreciation Month. Please [clears throat] and why don't you go and invite the students up to speak as well.

Yeah and if you guys can come off on the board. See, they they think if the microphones turn the way the other way, the mayor will keep his comments very brief. [laughter] That's never going to happen. You know, this is what makes Newark such a great community. When we have such diversity in our city and we recognize the various cultures and religions and things that really make us a special community and I want to thank Mr. Singh for bringing this to my attention. We've celebrated this in the past, but you know, we have so many different cultural, religious organizations throughout our community. We rely on the community to bring these important dates to our attention so that we can make sure that we recognize them because there's so many different organizations and community members that are doing such marvelous things in our community. We want to make sure that we take the time necessary to recognize the importance of this community and and the value and the real value that we they bring to this city. You know, we keep saying, you hear us say it over and over again, we're a welcoming community. We are welcoming because we appreciate folks who are of different religion, different culture, because at the end of the day, it's all about treating each other as you want to be treated. I mean, that's really the name of the game. And uh so it's with great pride that I on behalf of my city council issue proclamation number 1959 seek awareness and appreciation month where seeks have been living in the United States for more than 120 years and during the early 20th century thousands of seek Americans worked on farms, lumber mills and mines and on the western Pacific Railroad. Whereas seekism is the fifth largest religion in the world and today there are more than 25 million seeks worldwide and more than 500,000 seek Americans. where seek

Americans pursue diverse professions and make rich contributions to the social, cultural, and economic vi vibrancy of the United States, including service as members of the United States armed forces, and significant contributions in our great nation in agriculture, information technology, small business, community engagement, medicine, and technology. I'm going to stop here for a moment. The first time I met Mr. Terrence Singh. You remember you remember the first time I met you? First time you were dog walking. I was dog. [laughter] I like him.

He was picking up trash and litter on Thornton Avenue and over near Don Edwards Park. He was with other community members. And uh again, that's what that's what community service is all about. Not that I'm going to call somebody and tell them I'm going to do this. You see an issue. you see a need and you take it upon yourself to rally those around you that share that vision and you say you know we need Saturday to go do some cleanup and that's the first time I met Mr. sing doing cleanup not without any city recognition but just because he saw a need and thought I need to step forward and and deliver and so I I remember that day vividly. Thank you. Thank you.

I would have helped but I was walking my dog. [laughter]

Um where seek Americans distinguish themselves by fostering respect among all people through faith and service. Service is an integral part of seek tenants and its impact is visible in the American fabric. whereas the city of New York is committed to educating citizens about the world's religions, the value of religious diversity, tolerance grounded in first amendment principles, a culture of mutual understanding, and the and the diminishing of violence. Now therefore, I, Michael Hannah, on behalf of my colleagues on the city council, and I'll ask my council colleagues to come forward when we do a group photo, um, do declare seek awareness and appreciation month in Newark and urge all Newark residents to take the opportunity to better understand, recognize, and appreciate the rich history and shared experiences in seek Americans. So, I present this to you, Mr. Singh, on behalf of the New York City Council, and thank you for all the good things that you do for our community. You're greatly appreciated. I hope you know that. Yeah. Thank you, MAN. [applause]

YEAH. What a day. What a day. I think first of all, thank you, mayor, council, city staff, and our clerk staff that has helped make this happen behind the scenes. A lot of work happened. And I also want to appreciate everybody who's here on a rainy day. You know, we don't get those days often in November. So, I appreciate the community showing up. And as mayor said right, we are here integral part of the community and that is evident in our speakers. Both of them are Newark high memorial product and and I have also have Jind Kor will join us too on the stages to be supporting but I think I want to give the mic first to Nandin. She's a freshman at New York High Memorial and she will share our thoughts with with everybody. Thank you. [applause] Good evening, respected Newark legislature members. Thank you for taking the time this evening to honor the sick American community here in Newark. My name is Nalinkar and I'm a freshman at Newark Memorial High School and the vice president of the Newark Sick Student Association. Tonight, I want to speak about a community who values equality, justice, and service and has made a lasting mark on our country, the sick American community. Though six make up less than 1% of the US population, their contributions to the struggle for civil liberties and human rights have been profound and enduring. Sikhism was founded over 500 years ago by Guru Nanakji on the belief that all human beings are equal regardless of race, gender or religion. When sick immigrants who were farmers, doctors and scientists began arriving in the early 1900s, they carried those principles with them. They arrived in America and faced challenges. When challenges came their way, they faced them with integrity, strength, and faith in this country. A county of hope, a country of equality. One of the first major battles for civil rights fought by a sick American was a

case of Bugatt Singh Tind in 1923. A US Army veteran who served during World War I. Tind applied for citizenship believing his service and commitment to American ideals would be recognized. However, the Supreme Court ruled that he was not eligible to gain citizenship due to the color of his skin. Though he lost the case, Tin's fight carried on and his struggle helped pave the way for future reform. Six have also been at the forefront of the fight for religious freedom. In the 1940s and beyond, sick Americans proudly served in the US military. However, for years, they were told they could not wear their turbons or keep their beards, which are both sacred symbols of their faith. Rather than giving up, they persisted. After decades of advocacy, sick soldiers finally won the right to serve while maintaining their articles of faith. Their victory strengthened not only sick rights, but the rights of all Americans to live and serve without abandoning their beliefs. Sick Americans have also made an impact during the pandemic in providing fresh meals made at our gdada, the sick place of worship to feed anyone who is hungry. In addition, the sick American community raised funds to provide groceries, books, and toys to local families that were financially impacted by the pandemic. There are many sick Americans in Newark serving as engineers, theater teachers, dentists, doctors, business owners, and students that hang out with Officer Brandon or SR SRO at Newark Memorial High. We all share a common thread. We all love Newark and our country. The story of sick Americans is in many ways the story of America itself. A story of struggle, resilience, and a constant dedication to keep this country remains just and free. As we reflect on civil liberties today, we honor the sick principles that guide so many of these efforts to see the divine in every human being and to stand up for the rights of all, not just ourselves. As Thanksgiving

approaches, I am thankful to be a sick American and proud Newark resident. And I will always serve our country and our Newark community, which is our duty to do as an American and as a sick. I would like to give a quick shout out to all my teachers and coaches from Kennedy Elementary to Newark Middle School and to where I am now at NHS. I love you all very much and thank you for making a difference every single day. May God bless America. Thank you for your time. [applause]

[applause] [clears throat]

Kulsa fate. Good evening everyone. Um my name is Benor and is a hard act to follow. [laughter] Um I'm honored to speak tonight at today's event uh proclaiming sick awareness and appreciation month. Um, I lived in Newark for almost 30 years and I still remember when I started kindergarten at James El Bunker Elementary School in the fall of 1995. I was quite an anomaly back then. The girl with the long hair and a wooden comb in her hair with the iron bracelets and she didn't eat meat. Today, no one bats an eye when you say you're a vegetarian. But, um, imagine the gumption it took me to tell Mrs. street in the first grade that I couldn't eat the stone soup we made as a class because it had chicken broth in it.

Um, as I went through Bunker, Newark Junior High, Newport Memorial High, just my experiences with like the world stage and globalism, 9/11 happened. I was in sixth grade and with it the horrendous Islamophobia and xenophobia that occurred with all people of color. Um, and it felt like honestly my very existence in in school for those like 18 years was sick awareness month every day. [laughter] Um, there were not that many of us and so it's a lot of like explaining of like who you are and no I'm not fasting. I can't have licorice today cuz it's Friday. Um, things like that. Um, being involved in the band at Newark Days, you know, wearing a turban. Um, having like covered hair. um [clears throat] always felt different. But to be honest, I think for children, our first community is school. As an adult, we participate in community in different ways, but as a child, your community is your peers and your teachers um and institutions you're in. And I think New York did a really good job even in the 90s and 2000s um when you know we didn't know too much about like other cultures or religions of being a diverse place. That's one thing I loved about New York Memorial. Um it like the way I described it is that minorities were the major majority. Um like the white student population was actually the minority for us. Um and that was in a way like I think for again students of color and as a sick student um having just diverse experiences through my education. um having teachers that were supportive who um made space and gave us agency was really impactful. Um and so today I think looking at Anand who is a freshman at Newark Memorial and I knew her

parents before she was born so that makes me feel old. Um just seeing like how eloquent she is. And there's a sick student association at the high school. I didn't know that. um seeing the growth in the sick community in Newark, seeing um that and seeing like how he ran for city council and how involved he is. That was tough as a kid wasn't really on my periphery. Um but it's nice to see the strides we've made. And I think in conclusion for me, New York is a really small town, but it's always been a really warm place. Um I personally have never felt

yes you know you experienced things but it's always been a community where we felt welcomed um my parents myself and coming back today to speak with my daughter and more babies um it makes me happy to see you know that like for this next generation having these like sick awareness month and just um conversation and community it's it's it's nice and it's warm and it's safe. So I really appreciate that. So, thank you to the mayor, to the city council, and th for giving me space to come back to New York to speak today after all this time. [applause] [applause]

[cough] Fate. Good evening, Mayor Michael Hannan. Esteemed city council members and dedicated city staff. My name is Jindar. I'm from Fremont. Not New York, but as I'm a neighbor here. [laughter]

She's learning from us. She's learning from us. She's learning from us. And I want to thank you all for this meaningful proclamation which recognizes the month of November as sick American awareness and appreciation month. America's strength comes from its rich diversity here. People from all around the world who seek a better future and to do so they make this nation even stronger. Every culture adds something beautiful and in new work we are blessed to be surrounded by neighbors who are from many different backgrounds. Six follow these three golden principles which was given to us by our first guru guranikji. Earn an honest living share with those who are in need and remember God at all times. During the pandemic, Gordasai Prima and Six for Humanity embodied these values by supporting our community through vaccination drives, grocery distributions, and providing PPE to school, first responders, hospitals, and thousands of local residents. We don't see this as charity. Instead, we see this as our duty to serve. At Fremont Gordai alone, we helped vaccinate over two 12,000 community members through 22 vaccination drives. This proclamation carries deep significance for us. However, November is also a painful month for six worldwide as we remember the thousands of innocent six who were killed during the organized six genocide of 1984 in India. An atrocity for which justice has still not been served. Despite this history, six continue to stand firmly for equality, social justice, and selfless service. Whenever a need arises, you can always count on the sick community for help. Once again, I want to thank City of Newark for honoring this sick community with today's proclamation. Thank you. [applause]

How do you join us for for group photo? Bring everyone on up. All the folks are here. All the community members and everybody else who wants to join us. Please welcome. We'll stand in front of you. Yeah. Thank you.

Let's get on both sides. Yeah. In the front. Yeah. Get sit down.

We got time. Okay. Ready? One. Have to do a few. One, two, three. Amazing. One more. [laughter]

Okay. Anyone else? [laughter] Okay. One, two, three. Beautiful. Next. One, two, three, and then one for the city. Hey, seek awareness on three. Love it. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. My pleasure. Thank you.

[clears throat] your hand. Beautiful. Thank you. My pleasure. My pleasure.

My pleasure.

[laughter] Before everybody leaves, um before everybody leaves, we'll take if I can get back up anymore.

We'll take a two-minute break um to let everybody um leave. Um but before you all leave, I do want to take a moment to um recognize again Terren Singh because it was this city council that appointed Mr. Singh to oversee measure GG. Okay. We recognized his significant contributions to our community and we thought we need to find a place for this gentleman to serve the community beyond what he does on just simply a pure volunteer basis. So he's going to oversee all the tax dollars that come into the city that help us pay for this beautiful civic center. So thank you. [applause] Thank me. [laughter] Thank you.

I I left Taran with the following. You know, we built this on time and on budget. My goal is that you keep it that way. So, thank you for your service. Thank you. Ladies and gentlemen, we'll take a two-minute break so folks can uh exit the room. And thank you for being here tonight. Thank you. I appreciate it. You're welcome. I love this.

I'm going to go and call the city council meeting back to order. And uh again, this is really one of the more enjoyable portions of our meeting when we get to introduce new staff. So, let me start off by introducing public safety dispatcher Sierra Shelly. Sierra [applause]

again, I always love it's almost like the parks department, you know, we stand in the back of the room because the applause will continue until I actually make it to the front of the room. But uh no, you know my view my views on dispatchers. Um they're the first call that people make when there's distress in their families or in their neighborhoods, a loved one's ill, a loved one uh is in critical situation where they need assistance, there's problems in the neighborhood, they call 911 and the first person they talk to are the dispatchers. So I say this not only to you, Shelley, but also to Connor. um they're the first point of contact. They they they it's important that they keep people calm so they can get the critical information that they're going to need to make sure that we dispatch or they dispatch the appropriate folks, fire, police, whatever the case may be. So, I have a great admiration for anyone that works as a dispatcher. And um so, thank you for coming to work for the city as a dispatcher on July 21, 2025. Shelley grew up in Fremont. That's okay. See, when it comes to dispatchers, when it comes to these critical jobs, we will reach across the freeway and uh and ask them to come over. She attended John Kennedy High School. After high school, she continued her education at Aloney College in Fremont where she earned three associate degrees in administrative justice, human development, sociology. Sociology. That's going to help. That's going to help. She is currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in criminology through Arizona State University's online program. Shel's prior work experience includes roles as a trainer and shift leader at Chick-fil-A, a barista at Starbucks, and a gymnastics coach. Now, Shelley asked me as we were walking in, you know, can I do some, you know, some gymnastic across the floor? And I said, "No, probably not. Not tonight, but at

some other time, we'll certainly look at that opportunity." But in her free time, Shelley enjoys riding dirt bikes, singing and songwriting, hiking, and volunteering at animal shelters. Welcome to Newark. I'm glad you have to. [applause]

It's always amazing to me the the extreme talent all of our employees have, Mr. Bon, with our city. you know, we talk about uh you know, their education, but then when you get into their areas of interest and hobbies, these are we really bring some talented folks in. Uh I think we should have like a talent contest and and maybe we we challenge Fremont, for example, to a talent contest and we put on our best and brightest uh to compete. Connor Taylor, please welcome. Come. [applause]

[applause]

Taylor was born in Sato and raised in Foster City, graduated from Hillsdale High School in Samonteo and went on to attend Skyline Community College in San Bruno where they where he earned an associates degree in physical education. He continued his education at Simpson University in Reading and completed a bachelor of arts degree in psychology. another helpful degree when you're dealing with folks. Uh Taylor began his career in public service with the Sanonteo County Probation Department where he worked as a pre-trial specialist from 2020 to 2023. He then joined the Foster City Police Department as a records specialist serving from 23 to 25. outside of law enforcement. He has held roles roles as a case manager providing Wrap RP services for nonprofit organizations, work security uh for the San Francisco 49ers, and held various part-time positions at local breweries. Connor told me that he would give us a list of the top five breweries in the area um upon request. In his free time, Taylor enjoys going to the gym, spending time with friends, and relaxing. He's an avid Bay Area sports fan who loves attending games for the San Francisco Niners, Sharks, and the Giants. Sharks are looking good.

You know, we got we got I think the number one score in the National Hockey League, I think, still. It only took him the last five years. I know, but we're getting there. Welcome aboard, Connor. Thank you. Good to see you. [applause] How about police officer Yonas Ansari [applause]

nice to speak I always tell the new officers you know take a look at these five people these are five people that when you see well city manager I guess included when you see them you know it's always thank you for driving so safely and uh the fact that you were going 40 and a 25, it was simply you wanted to see whether or not I knew, you know, my role, my responsibilities, but I'm going to ask you just simply to drive safer. So, thank you for that educational opportunity. [laughter]

Was hired as a and I love police officers. We are the we are the safest community in my opinion in the Bay Area. And a great deal of the credit goes to our chief, Chief Aguo, sitting back there in the corner, who not only hires and promotes outstanding staff to assume those top positions, but he's built a culture here in Newark where the citizens know that public safety is our priority, but that public safety officers doing the work that they do every day are appreciated, valued, and know that we are going to provide them with whatever tools they need to make sure that we provide and continue to provide a safe community. Chief, thank you for that. [applause] So, Officer Ensari graduated from the Alama County Sheriff's Department, the regional training academy in September of 2025. Officer Ensari was born in Lascatus and moved to Fremont where he was when he was seven years old. Fremont has been his home ever since. I don't know who writes these things. [laughter] It's okay to say, you know, he lives in that community that's across the freeway,

city we do not speak of,

you know, that that's, you know, but that's okay. Hey, anytime we can grab a talent from Fremont and bring him to Newark, we're happy to have him. Graduated from American High School and went on to attend Aloney College and Shabbo College before earning his Bachelor of Science degree in computer science from Cal State University East Bay. Officer Insari's prior work experience includes serving as a security guard and later as a security guard supervisor working as a software engineer intern and driving in the transportation industry. Outside of work, he enjoys staying active and spending time with his family. Officar's hobbies include playing tennis, break dancing. Wow. Again, I talk about that talent show. Um camping and making memories with his wife and children. Enjoy those memories. They're important. Thanks, [applause] [applause]

Police Officer Jackson Benjamin. [applause] Jackson Benjamin was hired as a police officer on September the 10th, 2025 after graduating from the Alama County Office Regional Training Academy on September the 9th, 2025. Were you and Officer Ansari in the same class? Outstanding.

Did you put in a good word for him? Did you? Officer Benjamin grew up in San Jose and graduated from Willow Glenn High School. After high school, he attended trade school at the NorCal Carpenters Training Center where he earned his journeyman carpenter status. He plans to attend college in the future to continue his education. Before be uh beginning a career in law enforcement, Officer Benjamin spent nine years in the Carpenters Union in San Jose, serving as a carpenter foreman for the last three years. He brings a strong work ethic and leadership background from his time in the trades. Outside of work, Officer Benjamin enjoys golfing, going to the gym, spending time with his girlfriend, friends, and family. Welcome, Officer Benjamin. [applause]

Police Officer Matthew Jouo. Yeah. Thank you. [applause]

It wasn't a question. It was really more. Yeah. Whatever you want here. [laughter]

Matthew was hired as a police officer on September the 10th, 2025 after graduating from the Alama County Sheriff's Office of Regional Training Academy on September the 9th, 2025. By the way, um I'm not sure if I went to that academy, but I know that a number of the council members do like to attend those ceremonies and uh we're really appreciative of the training that you go through to prepare you for these opportunities. Officer Jao grew up in San Francisco and graduated from Lel High School. After high school, he continued his education at San Jose State University where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication with a minor in public relations. Following his graduation, Officer Jiao joined the United States Army. Thank you for your service. Where he was proudly served where he's proudly served for the last four years as a psychological operation specialist. He currently holds the rank of sergeant E5 before pursuing a career in law enforcement. Officer Jao worked in security at Northrup Grumman in Sunnyale. His professional background also includes a variety of roles ranging from restaurant work to completing an internship with a nonprofit organization in Redwood City. In his free time, Officer Jao enjoys spending time with his girlfriend and friends, playing video games, watching uh A9.

Oh, an anime. Anime. It's a generational thing. [laughter]

[laughter] staying active through weightlifting and working out. Welcome aboard, [applause]

Officer Francisco Felix. [applause] Nice to have you. Nice to meet you,

Chief. We got to get be we have to be getting closer to full staffing at this point, I would think. Beautiful. Uh it's a pleasure to have you. Officer Felix hired as a lateral police officer on September the 10th, 2025. I love that we saw opportunities or he saw opportunities coming from another jurisdiction to our jurisdiction. I love that. served as a sheriff's deputy with the Stannis Loss County Sheriff's Office from March of 24 through April of 2025 and graduated from the Stannis Loss County Regional Training Academy in February of 2025. Officer Felix grew up in South Hayward near Union City. See how they put the near we just, you know, they grew up in Fremont near Newark. Um, and graduated from James Logan High School in 2013. After high school, he attended Shabbo College and later transferred from San Jose State University. Transferred to San Jose State University in 2022, where he studied public health with a minor in nutritional food science, something the vice mayor probably knows a lot about. [cough and clears throat] Before beginning as law enforcement career, Officer, Felix spent five years working as a security officer for META in Menllo Park. Earlier in his career, he worked in the restaurant industry, including local favorites, Little Mad Fish in Fremont

and Red Robin at New Park Mall. Remember, we used to have a restaurant over at New Park Mall. [laughter] Outside of that's a commentary about New Park ball, not outside of work, officer Felix enjoys spending time with his family, lifting weights at the gym, playing basketball, watching football, and gaming. His favorite food is burritos. I join you in that. Join that. [applause] Let's welcome all our new officers. Oh, Why not?

You should watch anime movies. Yes. [laughter] [laughter] Steve Cassie. Too generous. I know. [laughter]

Ladies and gentlemen, the next part of our agenda is the public comment section. This is the opportunity for the public to speak on any item that is not on the agenda this evening. Is there anybody that would like to speak on an item not on the agenda this evening? Yes, ma'am. Please come forward. Thank you for being here tonight.

Thank you, honorable mayor, city council. My name is Molly Connelly. I wanted to uh bring to your attention that um I wanted to appreciate actually some really phenomenal employees uh the city. The first one is Matthew Ferrell who is the see chief building officer. The other is Tanya Connelly who is a maintenance supervisor. Zero relation to me we've never met. Um and then there's Dan Charilio. So I've had work with these people over I don't know very brief periods couple of emails

but in the case of Matthew we'll start with him very quickly um I've noted that Matthew can see through problems very easily even though it's not explicitly stated and sometimes it is he'll see the threads of much larger issues and how they can impact the public and their safety and bring it all together and bring in the correct people to help resolve almost instantaneously. So, that's an exceptional gift, I believe. So, I just wanted to point that out. Again, I I I may have met him once in the last 20 years, possibly. I I know we've emailed on occasion, but I just find him an exceptional employee. The other one is Tanya Connelly. Without going into detail, I can say I've reached out to her about some specific things seen in other facilities and said, you know, is this really right? Is this happening the right way? Cuz it seems seems wrong. And man, she was so on top of it. Just on top of it, dealt with it immediately, responded quickly, corrected the situation, and then came back and said, "I kind of want to follow up with you, Molly, more on um what your perception of the city involvement was with this." So she really had a broad scope as well and all of these things save the city time, money and liability issues. So I think that's very important. And the third one was your urban forest supervisor Dan Tara Turillo. I met him pretty recently at the birch tree planting. I think you were there. So [clears throat]

that was pretty nice. I may have emailed him last year or sometime. I was very impressed at the fact that he is responsible for such a large acreage throughout the city. And if you consider the fact that he has every tree between the sidewalk and the curb, any limb that falls, the health of any tree, the sidewalks, people can trip over, all of the parks, all of the health of all the trees in the parks, and then organizing something like 60 people to plant 20 trees. And they do this several times a month. I mean, it was extraordinary the amount of work that has to be done to go in the night before and augur holes and carry literally carry water. It's an incredibly intense job. In Dan's case, I think he's a steward of the land. And he comes forward teaching future generations how to respect the land and take care of each other and also to protect the accessibility for your first responders to be able to get to people in need should anything happen. as well as public safety. And I think that's often overlooked. And finally, I often see these people, especially with Dan, I can come home and see driving home, I'll see them picking up garbage, you know, at night on was that. So, I just want to tell you, they're phenomenal employees. [clears throat] I know they've been with the city a very, very long time. I don't know how long. I really don't, but I assume a very long time. And I just want to thank you for bringing them to us and letting them remain with us and keep us protected. So, thank you. That's it.

[applause] Thank you for your nice comments uh about our employees. Mr. Ben, you'll share those comments with the the employees. Uh yes, your honor. I'd like to thank Miss Connelly for her comments. It's pretty rare to have um such wellspoken comments uh celebrating city staff uh at a public council meeting. So, I thank you for taking the time to come here. Uh you said you did you might have met our chief building official once. Uh he's actually here in the audience. Um sir, M Mr. Matthew Ferrell, our chief building official, is here and he heard your comments firsthand. Uh, with respect to the other employees, I'll be sure to relay those comments to them. And in fact, Mr. Senillo is not here in the audience, but he does watch our meetings, so I wouldn't be surprised if he's watching them from home. So, thank you.

Chief, I was not going to call you out. [laughter] Thank you. Is there anybody else that would like to speak to an item not on the agenda? Our uh CEO for the chamber, Mr. Steven Cassidy. Mr. Cassidy, welcome.

Thank you. Um, and I want to just make a few comments. And first of all, starting with a thank you to the mayor and to the city for inviting me to the mayor's conference. It was great to see some old colleagues um, and meet some new folks. And I thought it was, you know, you go dropped a pin when uh the mayor talked about how Newark's budget is balanced and um you know, looking at major projects, major capital improvement projects that are going to be funded through sales tax measure that's not being spent on operating revenue. I mean, it's just I kind of feel like I'm in a different universe when I come here versus my hometown um and some other uh city councils. you know, it's just um remarkable, you know, how well New York is run. Um and also credit to your neighboring cities. I mean, there just um the fun cities of Alama County. Um there um you know, it's a special region. And along those lines, um we're working with city staff to have a tri city mayor's economic forum in February. And we'll provide more details to you on that. But the whole the goal of that is to think of ways to build greater collaboration amongst the three cities so that the tri city area as a whole can achieve greater economic growth and prosperity than it would otherwise. Um that's the goal. Um but I also want to invite you to the um Oh, you didn't put the time on or is it not going?

I would keep going Stephen. [laughter]

No, you did not want that. Um um so the second is the uh chamber holiday mixer that's on uh December 4th at the loft. Um and um we're inviting folks to come for free because of our generosity of our sponsors which is prologologist cargo and integral communities. Um, and we're asking folks to bring an unwrapped toy or gift um that we will be donating to Violet Ble to in turn uh distribute to the folks in need in our community. Um, we also might have an ugly sweater fashion show/contest during the the event too, but details on that to come. Um, and then with the city, uh, the chamber is coordinating promoting a hotel industry roundt. This is for the Newark hotels. It's happening next week. And the purpose there is just to bring all the hotelers together, ask them what's happening, what are they seeing, what are some of the trends, what you know, what are issues that where the city could be more responsive to or help them out on, and conversely where the chamber can provide assistance, but also to um try to prep them and and have ideas as to how we can promote the Newark hotel industry as we head into 2026 with the major sporting events that are coming to the Bay Area, the Super Bowl, and the World Cup. Um, now I'm going to assume that I only have like two minutes left u because it's gone on for a while. So, here's the thing. Um, I recognize that come December, um, the minute the time to speak may be very short because you have a major agenda at that time. And I just want to tell you in advance, the chamber is um one of our missions is to be an advocate for projects that we believe improve Newark and also important to the business community. So

we were in support of the prologes project. We're in support of your arts ordinance and we're also we've submitted a letter to the planning commission in support of the Malry Village project and I just you know I have a feeling that that night that perhaps it'll be you know very vigorous discussion and when I think about that you know I've been in settings where I was on the city council or on the school board and you have you know you have a lot of folks that are got some strong views and you naturally of course will listen to everybody you want to engage them and you also to a certain extent want to please people. I mean that's part of the job of being here in office. At the same time you have to look beyond the crowd that's just right in front of you and think about the greater community and think about the goals that the city has formulated and are working to implement over a series of years. I mean that is why New York is so successful is that you've been focused. you've had stable leadership on the city council in the city manager's office and um you know it it's enabled the this city to you know really punch above its weight. I mean it's so impressed with the New York days. I mean how many cities of 45,000 can have a 3-day festival really actually four days that brings the entire community together. I mean you don't see that in some of the major cities certainly don't see that in my city which is twice the size of Newark. So um I just ask you to keep that in mind that you know it may be a tough meeting but focus on what are the long-term goals for the city and how you know particular projects serve that goal or should you disagree don't serve the goal but um that's I look forward to engaging with you on that topic as it moves forward.

Okay. Mr. Capsidy the event next week with the hotel folks is there a date and time and location for that? It's on the 19th and I think it's in the morning like 9:00 am. Okay. Okay. Thank you for that. Is there anybody else that would like to speak on an item that's not on the agenda this evening? Okay. We'll go ahead and move on to other business. [clears throat] The other bit Yeah, the consent calendar. Thank you. The consent calendar consists of the following items. has adopted a resolution amending the 2024 2026 banual budget and capital improvement plan to add capital improvement projects.

Am I reading the wrong thing? I'm sorry. Right. Yep. Yep. Yep. Yep. You know,

he's preparing to be the next vice mayor. So, that's Thank you for that. I appreciate it. I had turned the page uh too quickly. Um the consent calendar. Um so there are a number of items on the consent calendar. One is the approval of audited demands. Two, the approval of the October 23, 2025 special meeting minutes. Three, the approval of the October 23, 2025 regular meeting minutes for adopter resolution approving and authorizing the acceptance of the 2025 2026 selective traffic enforcement program step federal grant through the state of California Office of Traffic Safety OTS and amending the 2024 2026 bal. adopt a resolution authorizing the city manager to execute amendment number one to contractual services agreement number C23071 with CSW Strubber Stro Engineering Group to increase the not to exceed amount by $17,279 for a new contract total of 1,14,497.6 Six, adopt a resolution authorizing an increase to the solid waste, recycling, and organics collection and processing service maximiz maximum rates for calendar year 2026. Seven, wave further reading and adopt an ordinance repealing section 15.0430 of title 15 building and construction of the New York municipal code in order to conform to the updates uh to the 2025 building standards code that are adopted. City manager, any item you want pulled?

Not this evening, your honor. Ladies and gentlemen, is there any item you'd like pulled from this consent calendar for further discussion? Colleagues, any items you would like pulled from the consent calendar? Council member Gindal, item number six. Any other items? Number five. Vice Mayor, number five. Any other items? If not, can I get a motion to approve items 1, two, three, four, seven? So moved. So we have that motion from Council Member Canio. Can I get a second? A second.

Please vote. So those items 1 2 3 4 7 pass unanimously. 5-0. Oh, sorry. May I just read the ordinance title? Council member number six. Six. I'm sorry. Go ahead, my friend. Um I would just um I'm going to be moving to approve this item. I just wanted to um ask the city manager um for an update on the on the negotiations about a um a rebate or some sort of credit due to the stoppage that we had in our in our um in our account. So, I was hoping you could provide an update for that, but I'll be I'll be recommending approval of this.

Sure. I'd be happy to provide that update. Um if the public and the council may recall, I believe it was around July of this year, uh there was approximate two-week period in which there was stoppage of work uh related to the contract. Um this was for the collection of um of the waste uh waste stream uh the blue recycling stream as well as green waste. Um had to do with uh union strife occurring in another part of the country. Um we've uh thanks to our environmental services manager uh Mr. Scan who's sitting there in the audience. Um we've been negotiating with Republic Services for a credit for automatic credit uh for our residents for all residential account holders for that twoe period of when service was uh interrupted. Uh some accounts were affected more than others. Um but we are tenatively reaching agreement where it would be for all residential account holders. Um, we also are finalizing terms um related to commercial accounts uh as well as some compensation for staff time. Um, we hope to have that agreement for council consideration publicly uh at the December 11th council meeting. Uh, if not, then we'll have it in in January.

U, thank you for the update. I'll move approval when when that's ready. Mayor, thank you, Council Member Gdall, Vice Mayor. [clears throat] On item number five, I just want a little more clarification. Um, it looks like it's a 10% It's over over a 10% increase. And I was just kind of curious what it's for. Um, it's I believe it's a 3.7% 3.7 because 117,000 over 1.014 is over. Oh, I'm sorry. I think you're referencing item F5. We Yes, five. That's a 10% increase. That's why I'm just going to curious what what their their role is and and why such a 10% increase is a lot of money.

Okay. Uh, mayor, would you like us to address this item or reach resolution on on D6 first? I I thought we could move them at the same time. Sure. Should we do them one at a time? I That makes no Let's go and do them then separately. Let's go. Council Gdall, you made a motion on item number six. Second.

Seconded by Council Member Jorgens. Let's vote on this is item number six. And that is [clears throat] and that passes unanimously. Thank you, Council Grindall. Uh again returning to F5. Um uh Mr. Manoon, do you do you want to go ahead and address that issue now? Do you want to come back with at a later date?

Oh, no. We'd be happy to address that answer now. Just uh earlier I indicated it is item F5. I misspoke. It's item D5. My apologies for the confusion. I'm going to invite our city engineer, Mr. Mickey Sabot, to provide a response to that question. D5. I misspoke. No, I did too.

Thank you. Good evening, honor, honorable mayor, vice mayor, and council. Yes. So, this item is with our consultant engineer. They are um designing a section of Thornton Avenue that's part of the Oldtown or Old Town Streetscape project. We have an agreement with Alama County Water District whereby we will um design for the uh upgrade of their water pipe and they will the water district will reimburse us. That was for a certain section of Thornton. Um, we realized through the design of Oldtown Streetscape and Thornton phase one and phase two that it made sense for us to continue designing an extension of that water pipe as part of our design, which means that they would have to reimburse us more. The item before you tonight is to increase the consultants agreement to allow that to happen.

So, we will be reimbursed by the water district for this extra design work. Well, you didn't mention that. Okay. Because it's 11.56 increase, so that's why it's a significant amount. So, thank you for the clarification on that. No problem. The the one word I heard you say, reimbursement. Love that word. Love that word. So, with that being stated, Vice Mayor, do you want to go ahead and make a motion? I would love to motion it. Thank you. Vice Mayor makes a motion to support F D5, I'm sorry, D5. May I get a second? Thank you, Council Member Grenal.

Please vote. passes unanimously. Public hearings tonight, ladies and gentlemen. So, we're going to go on to other business. Now, we're in F. So, the first item is adopted resolution amending the 2024 2026 banual budget and capital improvement plan to add capital improvement projects. Mr. Benoon.

Yes. Good evening, your honor and members of the council. Uh if the council may recall, um back on October 23rd, the council held a special city council meeting to provide back to potential amendments to the city's existing capital improvement plan. Um the purpose of the proposed amendments, uh essentially it's three-fold. One, to reinstate projects that were included in previous budget cycles uh but not included in the existing budget due to quorum issues at that time. Two, to include replacement of playground equipment as recommended in the park's master plan update. and three to add the replacement of two fire stations. Uh council provided feedback and overall expressed support for these proposed amendments. Uh the following week, the planning commission reviewed the proposed amendments and found them to be in conformance with the city's general plan. Uh tonight we have a brief presentation from our city engineer, Mr. Mickey Sabot. He's going to recommend that the council take certain action to amend the city's capital improvement plan. Um before we begin the presentation though, I'd like to point out for the public that's viewing this uh meeting, uh item F1 is the main presentation that summarizes uh the recommended amendments to the CIP. Uh items F2 and items uh or F2 and F3 are two specific projects in which the council members may have a conflict of interest and as a result we separated those out for independent discussion. Uh my apologies for the confusion and if it appears disjointed, my apologies for that as well. With that in mind, I'd like to turn it over to our city engineer, Mr. Sabota. You have the floor, sir.

Thank you. Uh, good evening, Mayor Hannon, vice mayor and council members, staff, and the public. I'm I'm back. So, [laughter] um, again, the the items before you tonight, I'll be covering three, uh, the next three items are proposed amendments to the capital improvement program. Uh, you may recall, uh, this is about three weeks ago. I came before city council uh as part of a special work session and I covered a couple different topics. I talked about a capital improvement plan in general, what it is. Uh I gave some background, some history of how we came to the current 2024 2026 capital improvement program and why it was missing a couple projects. I gave a sneak peek of the upcoming 5-year CIP, which we are very excited uh to kick off. We're in the process of doing that right now and we'll bring that to city council early next year. And the meat of the presentation was really to introduce uh new projects to include in the CIP and these are high priority projects that staff felt we could get substantial work done or actually complete in what's left of this current fiscal year. So that's the next uh six or seven months or so. That happened uh on October uh 23rd. Later that night, we [snorts] were, I'm sure, all very excited to receive a $1 million state legislative grant from uh state senator Aisha, Dr. Aisha Wahhab, uh to help fund one of the projects. The following week on October 28th, we did a presentation to the planning commission as required by state law and planning commission did find that the proposed amendments to the CIP were in conformance to the general plan. uh the projects that we are proposing to include in the CIP are grouped into two different groups. The first group are projects that uh were not uh were previously approved but not approved by city uh council to include in the CIP last year due to quorum issues. So that's what's shown on this list or at least most of the projects. They include

the Oldtown priority development area, streetscape improvements, both the design and construction. Um, our plan is to finish up the design and start construction next year. This project will also include uh extensive community outreach and engagement because this project will impact the downtown business community. In addition, we've got the railroad quiet zone implementation to finish out the design of eight quiet zone locations. This is the first of many steps necessary to submit a quiet zone application with the rail agencies. And finally, Thornton Avenue pavement overlay phase 2, Ash to Spruce Street. This is a a pavement grind and overlay project to improve the street, add new striping for travel lanes and bike lanes. The second group of projects to include in the CIP are new projects, and these came out of master planning studies that were approved by city council late last year. The citywide parks master plan update as well as a city-wide facilities master plan. So that top group shows three uh new projects that we're very excited about. Uh they include upgrading and replacing the playgrounds at three parks, Birch Grove, uh Jerry Raber Ash Street, as well as Maribou [clears throat] Parks. You'll note that the second bullet is in blue, and that is one major change uh from the presentation I made or we made uh last month. Um, originally we were anticipating spending $824,000 for just a playground update. With the [snorts] $1 million grant uh from this the state legislative grant, we plan to uh use that full million for not only upgrading the upgrading the playground, but we're looking at furnishing improvements and staff is working right now behind the scenes. Bids come in really favorable. We're looking at possibly upgrading some of the sports facilities at that park. So there's a softball field, there's a volleyball court that needs to be freshened up. And if there's money left over, maybe we can add a botchi court or

two. And that's again if if bids come in favorable. On the bottom list, we've got the citywide facilities master plan. Um we've got two high priority projects. We want to kick off the preliminary planning efforts for three and a half million and they the replacement of fire stations number 27 and 29. Uh the parks project will involve um informing the the the public in general as well as the residents nearby the park. We plan to do that provided council approves these projects. And for the fire station projects, we're already engaged with Alama County Fire Department to work on an RFP uh to get a consultant on board to kickstart that preliminary planning effort. Again, provided that council approves this project. Uh tonight, of course, I don't want to forget our uh formal recognition and appreciation of uh California State Senator Dr. Aisha Wahab uh for her for her um state uh legislative grant of a million dollars to help pay for the Ash Street Park improvements. And that concludes my first presentation. I welcome any questions or feedback.

Great. Uh ladies and gentlemen, are there any questions that you might have on what was just presented? colleagues. Yes, Mr. Cassidy, please come forward. This may be premature, but what is the estimate for the cost ultimately of the two fire stations? The construction estimated cost is going to vary from 50 to $60 million depending on when we can actually get construction going. The schedule is between four to five years. My goal is to expedite that if possible. Can I make one comment? Yes. You might want to just stay up here, my friend.

Other cities obviously, well, maybe not obviously, are having to do the same thing. There's seismic, you know, stations are 40, 50 years old. They're not seismically safe. I mean, this might be an area where there could be some, you know, collaboration and possibly, maybe not, but possibly reduce the pricing. I mean, if you had one consultant that was hired to do multiple projects, maybe get an overall lower price. Just a suggestion.

Great. And uh Mr. Manoon, I know that we're working closely with Alamin County Fire Department because they they have just gone through a design process for their new fire station up in Caster Valley and we are basically utilizing that design as we move forward with our two fire stations. the the land there may be a differential on the land but I think city manager I think we're working closely with Albini County Fire Department in that regard.

Absolutely. We've uh we're engaged with the fire department right now on drafting the language of the RFP. Our plan is to do an RFP for one consultant to do both stations. Um and as mentioned both stations have significant seismic life safety issues. Our plan is to completely reconstruct those two uh fire stations as one project.

It'd be interesting, Mr. Manon, to find out what the total savings and maybe at some point in the future we can come back with not having to rep uh come up with a new design, what what the savings are to our city taxpayers in terms of utilizing what Castral has already done in terms of then implementing that on our two fire stations. It'd be interesting to know what the dollar savings might be at the end of the day. We'd be happy to provide that information. Continue with this process. We'll make sure we send a thank you letter to cast rally. Other [clears throat] questions, colleagues, on this first item, council member Kanchio.

Yes, thank you for your presentation. I did have a question regarding um the parks master plan priority group one. When we determined for those three parks to be the main focus, was that determined based on the population around that area or the usage or was it the deterioration of the current park? Like how was that in terms of why we selected just these four park projects? Right?

We selected those projects, those high priority projects that staff felt that we could get substantial work done or actually completed in what's left of this current fiscal year. So, between now and end of June, there are other high priority projects listed on the parks master plan. We'll certainly look at that as part of the five-year CIP that we're kicking off early next year. Great. Thank you. Other questions? Council Gindall,

this this [clears throat] echoes the the mayor's comment, but I really want to just compliment staff for working with the county and and being able to to streamline the process and the design and not to try to reinvent the wheel, but to use a process that's worked and that's going to, I would hope, expedite our process and save us money. So, I just want to compliment staff on that. Thank you. Other questions, comments? I only had one question um on the parks that we've identified. Will the because you mentioned there's a variety of different designs that we may implement depending upon cost. Will the final um design of those park amenities come back to the council for review and approval?

It wasn't our intent to bring it to the full council. We were going to uh publish it on our website and notify the nearby residents of what those park amenities would look like. Mr. Mr. Benoon, have we done anything historically in this in that regard in terms of asking council to kind of weigh in on the design of the park and the amenities that are going to be provided kind of the layout? Have have councils weighed in on that in the past as you recall historically?

Uh well, considering these uh the existing playgrounds were installed about 15 or so years ago, I I don't recall what process uh the city engaged in at that time. Um I think just to add a little bit to Mr. Sabot's response. Um staff has been diligently working on some playground designs. Uh we would intend on sharing that with the public to receive feedback. Uh the designs are consistent with what's contained in the parks master plan update. Um but we would want to share it with the public to make sure that we're on the right path. This is something, no pun intended, by the way. Uh but if this is something that is palpable for the community and this is something that they want, uh we certainly want their endorsement. Uh we're here to be responsive to the needs of the community and we're certainly do that. Um we would bring any contracts for um uh for the playground for the construction contracts. Those would come to the city council. Uh I would imagine we would attach the designs at that time. Yes.

Um but if if the council's desirous of looking at those plans before we go out to bid, we can certainly do that. Um, I don't know if that would be something that would uh I would imagine that would cause uh probably wouldn't be able to get this done before the expiration of this existing fiscal year. I can't imagine that really has any significant adverse impacts. We can Yeah, we can we can take a look at it if if that's the desire of council for us to come back to council with the actual plans.

These are the reason I mentioned it, Mr. Man, these are fairly significant capital improvements. And as we look at these as really kind of neighborhood parks, they really do uh transcend the neighborhoods. Oftentimes, families from a variety of other neighborhoods will come and enjoy some of these park amenities. Uh if it and I don't want to certainly create a significant delay because uh this work needs to be done and and is overdue. But if it doesn't create a significant delay, I'd certainly love the council and whether it's after I'd certainly love the public to take a look at it first and comment first because they're the ones that are going to be utilizing these improvements. But if there's an opportunity to bring it to the council for for just an overview, I would certainly appreciate that. Uh um I don't know if that needs to be made part of the motion or just simply uh leave it at that. Comments from my colleagues on that.

Any comments from my colleagues on that? Agree to be able to see the variety of plans after after after the public reviews it if that's possible. I agree that order is important public first and then yeah and and I think the reason why that's important is because a lot of our parks have different amenities at different parks so that families who may get tired of certain amenities at one park then can then go to another park and enjoy different park amenities. So, I I think it's important for the council at least to take a look at it and uh be kind of the second eyes on these projects after the community's had an opportunity to weigh in. Vice Mayor, I have a question. Yes.

Um during my whole campaign time and since then, a lot of people have been saying pickle ball or something. It seems to be crazy popular right now. Do we have any plans for this fancy pickle of ball game to play? The park's master plan, I believe, has got over a hundred different prioritized projects in and I'm sure it includes pickle ball among other sports. So, we can certainly look at that as part of the five-year CIP along with all the other projects because the Halloween party, the pickle ball dog, and the people even won. So, it seems to be super important to people. So, if we could just kind of put a little star next to that, please.

And the nice thing about pickle ball, it can be either an outdoor or an indoor activity. So, uh, maybe as these items come forward, we can look at the various options there because I know as we read in other communities, outdoor pickle ball sometimes creates impacts. On the nearby residential communities that uh, they councils at some point begin to regret. U, so maybe we need to look at that further, Mr. Manon.

Yes, good evening, your honor. Um, just to add a little bit to that response, um, the park's master plan update when we went through that community process, uh, it was a series of pop-up events, community engagement meetings. Um at the time, um pickle ball, interestingly, did not rank high on the priority list. And uh the plan was approved, I believe, in fall of 2024, so about a year ago. Um but we too at staff have seen a little bit of resurgence of interest from the community about pickle ball. And um it does raise some potential noise concerns. Uh but we're taking efforts to address the needs of the community. So I'm going to ask our assistant city manager working with our uh recreation director on our latest efforts on that front, Miss Havora. Thank you, city manager Benoon, Mayor, City Council. Good evening. Right now, there is a survey available that is out at both of our tennis courts at Birch Grove Park and at Newark Community Park. So, anyone can come up to the board there, um, scan the QR code and take a survey and let us know if pickle ball is of interest to them. There's a very short survey just asking when and where they would most like to play pickle ball if at our tennis courts. Um, if there is uh interest in that, then we uh could pursue a pilot project of striping one of the tennis courts into a pickle ball court. So, it could potentially be dual use. Um, and I'd also like to mention too that um pickle ball ball has been available for play at the Sllamon uh community activity center and so if there is interest of indoor pickle ball to definitely contact the Sllamon activity center and inquire about that. So to follow up with that, people have I mentioned that because I did know about the indoor pickle ball. Um I was told over there by Mr. Quvas about it, but people don't want to pay the entrance fee to come in to play pickle ball. So that's been their their situation. Can we double paint tennis courts with pickle ball lines and stuff? Can we double dip?

Yeah, so that was the pilot project I mentioned. Um, we did want to take a survey first because, um, as the mayor mentioned, there has been other projects implemented in other communities where neighbors have, uh, expressed concerns about noise. Um, so we want to make sure that we are putting it out to the community, allowing for input uh, for folks that play tennis at the courts too, uh, to make sure that we feel that there's opportunities for continued tennis play as well. And I'm really hoping as we uh eventually look at a revitalization of New Park Mall that there'll be some increased opportunities for recreational restaurants and retail and all those other amenities that uh our community is interested in. So, I think we have a variety of opportunities moving forward and uh but I thank you for providing the survey and putting the survey out there for folks and uh you know that's that's where decisions are made when people participate in surveys and voice that these are priorities for them this council you know makes them happen. So, thank you for the presentation on uh F2 or F1.

So, F2 is adopt a resolution. Sorry to interrupt. Item F1 does have an act resolution. Colleagues, can I get a motion in a second on item F1? Vice Mayor will make the motion.

May I get a second? I'll second. Council member Gindoll. Thank you very much. Please vote. And that passes unanimously. Thank you very much. staffer in San Jose. I was never able to know whether or not at the end of the day I was going to give a thumbs up, thumbs down or some sign. We never never just never knew never knew. So F2 is adopted resolution amending the 2024 2026 banual budget and capital improvement plan to reinstate capital project 1366 Thornton Avenue pavement overlay phase 1 interstate 882 Olive Street. Mr. Benoon.

Uh yes, your honor. Uh, we scheduled this item separately due to a recusal. Um, so I believe it's council member um Jorgens who has the conflict on this item. Yes, I will be recusing myself on this item because I have a real property leaseold interest within proximity of Thornton Avenue and that is my residence.

Thank you, council member. Mr. Benoon, Mr. Sabota. Well, great. So, this is again the second of three items I'll be presenting. I'll keep this nice and short. This is uh proposed amendment to the CIP to reinstate Thornon Avenue phase 1. This is one of those projects that uh was prior uh was approved in the past but was uh council did not vote on because of quorum issues last year. Uh this particular project is uh similar to Thornton Avenue phase 2. It is an overlay project from I880 to Olive Street. This project consists of grind and overlay the uh asphalt surface, install new striping for traffic lanes and bike lanes. And that [snorts] pretty much concludes my presentation. [laughter]

Thank you very much for that brief presentation. People are going to ask, gosh, why can't the mayor be brief? Um, ladies and gentlemen, is anybody in the audience who'd like to comment on this item? Colleagues, any questions on this item? Council member Gindall, I just want to say this road desperately needs it and so I really appreciate this this coming forward and um if if it's appropriate, I'll move approval. Mr. Mayor, thank you. Any other comments? Awesome. My quick question and comment is this is going to have undoubtedly a significant impact on traffic down Thor Avenue. Can you describe briefly if you know today what that traffic realignment might look like?

I don't know what the traffic realignment will look like. I do know that the proposed road will uh maintain having two lanes in both directions. We are looking at uh keeping some of the parking, adding some bike lanes. Uh and we are going to have extensive uh community outreach with the um the business district along that whole corridor because not only this project but Thornton phase 2 as well as the Oldtown Streetscape will all have significant impacts down that entire corridor. We do expect to get construction going on all three uh later next year. And when I when I talk about realignment, I'm referring to as construction is going on on Forton Avenue, not the uh final product, which I support wholeheartedly, but as construction is going on, what kind of impact would you see from folks that are accessing Thornton Avenue?

We'll work with the contractor on their traffic control plan when they actually submit bids. It may require to redverting traffic all on one side of Thornon of the median. It may require them just going down to one lane in each direction. Again, those details will have to work out with the contractor. And when the when the project begins, what would you estimate the beginning of the project to the completion of the project on phase one? Do you have like an estimated timeline in terms of timeline? Yeah, two years. Two years. Okay. All right. We're going to hear from the community on that, aren't we, Mr. Benoon? [laughter] [gasps]

Thank you. I need a motion in a second. I think I got the motion from Council Member Grenal and the vice mayor making the second. Can we please vote on that, please? [clears throat] And that passes with four eyes. And Council Member Jorgens's recusing himself. Welcome back, council member. Item F3 is adopted resolution amending the 2024 2026 banual budget, a capital improvement plan to add the Newark Community Park. All amenities play area project. Mr. Manune.

Yes. Good evening, your honor, members of the council. Uh item F3 is a part of the proposed amendments to the capital improvement plan. Uh we scheduled it separately in light of uh the vice mayor's conflict of interest on the improvements related to this item. That is correct. I currently have to recuse myself because I do have real estate property uh lease hold interest within the distance of the community park. My goal is to hold on to your property for you. Thank [laughter] you. You're welcome. Thank you.

Mr. Benoon, Mr. Sabota.

Great. So, this will be my final presentation tonight. This is for amending the CIP to include a new project, the new work community park all abilities uh play area. So this project um again a new project that came out of the parks master plan. It will involve replacement of all the the toten play equipment similar to the other projects uh mentioned earlier tonight. Uh with the exception of the $1 million state grant, uh the remaining park projects as well as this one plan will plan to use park impact fees for funding. Um estimated park impact fees after the completion of this as well as well as the other projects is around $4.4 million. Uh similar to the other uh park projects, we do plan to do uh community outreach and let the nearby residents know about this particular project.

Great. Thank you for that brief presentation. Is there anybody in the audience that would like to speak to this item? Colleagues, speak to this item. Council member Canio. Yes, your honor. Thank you. And thank you um for that brief presentation. I did want to um say that because it would be an all um abilities play area, I I am under the impression that it is going to be slightly more expensive than um if it was not. But I do believe that our community as well as other communities would really benefit greatly um from having this. Thank you so much.

City manager. My only comment on this and I've made it known to you is my desire for the city to uh look at the opportunity to try to keep some portion or keep the serpent um intact somehow. We determined that it was a serpent, not some other animal. We've conducted some um extensive and exhaustive research on the matter including looking at historical materials and apparently this was installed by community volunteers many decades ago and it was called at that time the Newark monster.

The New York monster. [clears throat and cough] I'm a big believer, ladies and gentlemen, kind of keeping the historical perspective of of of our city um going back and uh my kids all played on the monster and many [snorts] of our other kids have as well. So, I've asked the city as they look at the redesign of this park is look at every opportunity to keep the monster uh either in whole or in part or look at some other opportunity to if necessary to even relocate the monster or portions of the monster to another city facility if necessary. I think it's important that we don't uh discount the the folk. You said there were volunteers, Mr. Bon, it appears so.

Yeah. So, you know, we need to, you know, pay homage to those folks that took the time and the effort to to put that there. So, I would make that request as well. And and staff is staff are evaluating various options, including possibly salvaging maybe the head or a big portion of the monster and relocating it somewhere else in the park. God, if somebody [laughter] taps into this council meeting, what are they talking about? [laughter] I have a

Yes, Council Gall. Um, this is not a comment on the monster. Uh, [laughter] I I I I wanted to um echo Council Member Canio's um comments. It's very important. There are um there are children of various abilities in our community. So, so be able to provide um an allabilities playground is is something that's long overdue. Thank you. I agree. Thank you. I need a motion and a second on this item. So moved by Council Member Jorgens. Second

by Council Katanchio. Please vote. You're fast. And that passes with four eyes and the vice mayor little um um recusing herself. Thank you for the presentations. F4's adopt a resolution amending the 2024 final budget and to update the strategic priority areas. Mr. Benoon.

Yes. Good evening, your honor, members of the council. Item F4 is a presentation from our strategic initiatives manager, Miss Roya Gonzalez. Uh she will recommend proposed updates to the city's strategic priorities uh that are contained in the 2024 through 2026 Bal. uh staff developed these up received input from the council at the council retreat earlier this year. Uh we want to ensure that city initiatives are aligned with city direction and community. With that in mind, I'll turn it over to Miss Gonzalez.

Thank you, city manager. Good evening, your honor, and members of the city council. I'm pleased to be here this evening to review the proposed strategic priority areas. Tonight I will provide an overview of the background, the purpose behind these proposed amendments and the process for which they were developed. Let's start by looking at the current foundation which is the city's bianual budget. As you know, the city adopts a bianual budget every two years. The current 2024 2026 bianual budget includes a goals and strategies section that identifies five broad categories. public safety, education, quality of life, community development, and city government operations. Each of these priorities is supported by an action plan that outlines how the goals will be achieved. While these priorities provided a strong foundation, in 2024, staff began reviewing the city goals and strategies to ensure that they were fully aligned with council's priorities and the evolving needs of the community. That review revealed areas where updates were needed, which brings us to the proposed updates in strategic priority areas we are presenting this evening. These proposed updates are recommended to make sure that priority areas align city initiatives with city council vision. Strengthen the alignment between city projects, policies, and long-term goals. Reflect the community needs and align with broader regional priorities. that they incorporate the best practices in local government and create clear consistent framework for communication and accountability. The process for developing these strategic priority areas was collaborative and thoughtful. First, the executive team reviewed the city's existing priorities and identified where updates were needed. From there, staff

refined these priorities and proposed updates to better reflect the current goals and community needs based off the results of the 2023 community survey. Then, city council had the opportunity to review and discuss the proposed updates during the city council retreat in 2025. Council provided direction and feedback. Finally, based on that input, staff prepared these strategic priority areas presented this evening for council's consideration. Let's take a closer look at the proposed strategic priority areas. First, foster a safe and healthy community. This priority focuses on ensuring residents feel safe and supported. In addition to public safety, an example is implementing a comprehensive emergency operations program, which was identified as a top priority by the community in the 2023 community survey. Second, further economic vitality and housing for all. This area emphasizes supporting business retention, attracting new investments, and expanding access to affordable and diverse housing options in Newark. Third is boost financial resilience and excellence in service delivery. The goal here is to maintain strong finances while delivering highquality, responsive customer service with pride. We will track these results through the B bianial community survey. The next is to modernize public facilities and infrastructure. This priority will focus on keeping our buildings, road, and technology up to date to meet community needs. Examples include the implementation of the recently approved parks, facilities, and broadband master plan. And the last is to strengthen the community through education and engagement. This area highlights partnerships with schools and ways to involve residents in equitable

engagement opportunities. Specific actions include cultivating strong partnerships with the school district by collaborating on programs and communitywide events. Each of these strategic priority priority areas includes a definition and an action plan that will guide our work. [clears throat] Now that we've reviewed the proposed strategic priority areas, the next step would be implementation. If approved tonight, these priorities will guide departmental work plans, project proposals, and budget development, ensuring alignment with council's vision. We will update the existing documents to clearly link projects to one or more of these strategic priority areas. Over the coming over the coming months, staff will begin incorporating these strategic priority areas into staff reports and focus our communications around these priorities. This includes a city website, public outreach campaigns, and community engagement opportunities. This approach will enhance the transparent transparency and allow both council and the community to track the progress over time. And finally, we have our recommendation for council's consideration. Staff recommends that city council approve an amendment to the fiscal year to the 2024 2026 banual budget and capital improvement plan to replace the goals and strategies section with the updated strategic priority areas and direct staff to incorporate them into departmental planning, communications, initiatives, and budget development process. And with that, I would be happy to answer any questions you have.

Excellent. Thank you for the presentation, folks. Is there any questions, comments from folks in the audience on this item? Colleagues, questions, comments? Yes. Council Gindoll, um I'm very much in support of the um strategic priorities. Um I just wanted to call out that the economic development element of it is also going to be helping with the fiscal resilience. So, I just wanted to to obviously the overlap is intentional, but um just wanted to call that out. It's very important for us to stay focused on on economic development, how it helps our fiscal situation. Thank you. Thank you.

Just two comments. Um one, as the strategic plan gets kind of um developed, will that be something that will periodically come to council on a periodic basis in terms of giving us kind of a vision of what that strategic plan might look like and what goal it aligns to? Will we see kind of a uh that what that vision looks like? Yes. Uh council will will receive updates in a couple of different ways. Um if you're if you can recall the um goals and direction spreadsheet that is provided to council that outlines all of the projects and initiatives that staff are working on. Um over the coming months, we'll work on aligning each of those with the strategic priority area. So you'll be able to see the connection. In addition, performance reports reported out will be reported to the council on a quarterly basis. Um, all under these strategic priority areas.

Perfect. And I would imagine as uh reports come to the council, the report will include a reference to which strategic plan this report or request aligns with. We would anticipate adding that as a staple item to each and all staff reports. Perfect. Uh, is this is an action item, Mr. afternoon orformational. [clears throat] No, there is a proposed resolution for council's consideration. Great. Ladies and gentlemen, there's no other questions. I'll look for a motion in a second. A motion by Vice Mayor Little. I'll second

by Council Gindall. Please vote. [clears throat] And that passes unan, you know, you need to say that it passes unanimously. [laughter] You read the tea leaves.

Uh, ladies and gentlemen, I'm going to go back if if I can have your uh for just a moment. um in the audience that was hoping to speak during the public comment section did not have an opportunity to get here on time. So, I'm going to take the opportunity to go back to public comment and invite Matteo to come up to the podium for his public comment. Matteo, might need to lower the mic. Hello, Matteo.

Thank you. Um, hi. My name is Mattail. I'm a boy scout in my troop, troop 186, and I will be collecting canned goods this Saturday for the community to help people who can't buy enough food. If you want to donate canned goods, you can drop off your donations at the First Presbyterian Church. next to the dog park this Saturday from 10 am to 3 pm. Thank you. You're welcome. Thank you. Thank you. [applause]

The We don't normally comment on public comments, but I do want to make a thank you to the Boy Scouts of Newark um who year after year take the responsibility to help those in need. So, thank you to the Boy Scouts for their their work every year. Uh, city manager updates. Mr. Bonu.

Yes. Good evening, your honor, members of the council. Three updates for your review and consideration this evening. Uh, the first one, I'll wait for Miss Raj to get the PowerPoint ready. Miss Raj, you can go to the next slide, please. The first update is that um the city's uh winter spring activity guide for our recreation and community services programming will be available online beginning Wednesday next week, November 20th, uh on the city's website. Uh the guide features programs, classes, and events for all ages, including youth, dance, adult fitness, aquatics, and community events happening January through May. Registration opens on Monday, December 1st at 8 am and non resident registration begins on Friday, December 5th at 8 am. Next slide, please. The second announcement is that on Friday, December 5th, uh starting at 5:30 p.m., we will be gathering at Civic Center Plaza for our annual holiday tree lighting ceremony. Uh again, this is at Civic Center. Uh the public is invited for this free event. Enjoy an evening filled with performances, crafts, letters to Santa, community vendors, uh, and a spe special visit from Santa himself. Warm up with cookies and hot cocoa as you take photos and join in the holiday cheer. Activities will take place from 5:30 to 6:45, and the official tree lighting ceremony will begin at 700 p.m. And again, this is free and open to the public. And last but not least, uh, celebrate Small Business Saturday on Saturday, November 29th. Uh, we are proud of all of our small businesses and the positive impact they have on our community. Every purchase, meal, and support of small businesses strengthens our local economy and keeps Newark vibrant. Stop by for coupons and giveaways from New York businesses and enjoy refreshments and

family fun activities. This is Saturday, November 29th from 1 to 4:00 p.m. at the Civic Center Plaza. For more information, please review our website. And I would be remiss if I fail to mention that this is uh being done in partnership with the Newark Chamber of Commerce. And thank you, Mr. Cassidy, for sticking around for the rest of the meeting. Uh that concludes city manager updates this evening.

Mr. Benoon, do be kind enough to go back to your first slide. I just want to make a comment. Ladies and gentlemen, um make note that registration opens for residents December the 1st. Many of the activities that we provide at our community center are much desired by not just residents of Newark, but residents outside of the city of Newark. So therefore, non-residents can begin on December the 5th. So take every opportunity to begin registering for these classes or courses or whatever the case may be uh on December the 1st because they will go quickly. So thank you for the presentation, Mr. Manoon. We're now at council comments. I'll start to my right. Council member Grenal. Um, yes. Thank you, Mr. Mayor. Um, the uh I just wanted to call out that I'm going to be holding a coffee with the C with Council Member Grindall on November 22nd at 9:30 a.m. at the Jarvis um and and Newark Starbucks. Um, that's not the one in Safeway. That's the one on the corner. [laughter] That's all I have. Mr. Come here.

Speaking of the U Starbucks, uh, Mr. Benoon, I noticed it. The Starbucks at Thordon and Sycamore, they've actually put out tables and chairs and, uh, I don't know. I mean, I I know many of us visit that Starbucks, but it's I'm really pleased and I'll give kudos to Starbucks because I think it was probably them that went out and put the tables and chairs there for our customers to be able to enjoy the outside. and have a cup of coffee. So, I appreciate that. Uh, Council Member Canio.

Yes, your honor. Thank you. This past weekend, I was able to attend Newark's fishing event at Lakeshore Port um where children from ages 5 to 15 were taught how to fish by Newark staff. And so, I wanted to also thank the staff for putting that together. And remember that actually the lake is stocked year round. So, we do have catfish there. And if you do buy a license, you could fish anytime. And the catfish were really biting and a lot of people were able to catch those fish. Okay. So, that's a little different from when the trout gets put in and they're um not as eager. [laughter] Thank you, Council Member Jorgens.

Yeah. Uh with the uh holiday season coming up, I'd encourage our community to, you know, as much as they are able to be like Matteo and the scouts and find ways during the season to give back and, you know, find community service opportunities to, you know, enrich our community. Thank you, Vice Mayor Little.

Well, I had Mattel as my thank or am I helpful today. So, thank you, Mattel, for coming and making my announcement tonight. I appreciate it. Um, scouting for food. Just to let you guys know, Bolife is completely bare. They have nothing. They have nothing right now. And with the whole snap situation, with the government shutdown, there are they have new people that are going there ever before. If you got a flyer on your house last Saturday, that was me. Um, we 29,000 steps. Um, we we we were able to go to a bunch of houses, but if you did not get a flyer, that means we are not zoned that you're not we don't have a pickup. So, you can come like like Mr. Mattel thankfully told us, you can go to First Presbyterian Church of New Park from like 10 to 3:00 on Saturday. And if any council members want to come help sort out, you guys are welcome to come out and volunteer. Any staff is bored on Saturday, come get some cardio with me. Um, but it all goes everything we are the only city in the entire Alama County that the food stays in Newark. Everything else goes to Al Alama County Food Bank, which is great, but every the donation here stays in Newark with Yol.

Thank you, Vice Mayor. And our goal is 6,000 cans this year. So, um, I'm going to echo the vice mayor's comments. We have a lot of folks in need uh in our community, but Vitalife doesn't just serve Newark residents. They do serve the tri-ity areas. So, let's make sure that um you know, we we look at our pantries and and don't just simply give things that you bought that you don't want. Let's give things that people really do want, whether it be tuna, peanut butter, cereals. I'm sorry, not cereals. Cereals is fine. We'll take I'll take everything. So, let's let's you know, sushi, but I'll eat It's not.

So, let's make sure we we really give and and the reason that's important is Oh, by the way, Thanksgiving is coming up. And it's really one of my favorite holidays because it's really an opportunity to be with family and friends and not be distracted by other things going on, whether it be gift giving, things of that nature. It's just really a time to get with family. So, let's make sure we try to uh make Thanksgiving as enjoyable as as we can for others that may be less fortunate. And a big shout out to the uh San Jose Police Department, Mr. Benoon who donated over 300 turkeys from what I understand to violife and um please remind me the officer that was in charge of that program.

It's Carl Fredstrom our sergeant was here earlier. Um I knew I knew he was here and I should have I should have called him out earlier but uh it it's a team effort chief and uh please make sure that you share chief and Mr. afternoon with our officers how pleased we are that they recognize the need. And uh I saw you out there, chief, working on those turkeys, you know, back and forth into the into the freezer. So, you know, thank you for that. Vice Mayor,

I'm sorry. I forgot. I forgot one last thing. If you guys cannot make a food donation on Saturday, I do believe that Silman Center is also doing a big food drive. And if you bring a certain amount of items with our Silman Center, I think you get a couple of day passes or something. I believe Mr. Quas is that is that correct sir? Yes that is correct. Um they can bring in pass um food book [laughter] I just remembered. Thank yeah I just remembered about this. Yes that is correct. Um so individuals can bring in um food items. Um they are going to biolle um they will uh we have some special tokens that um people can use to come in next time. And then there's also a pass sale, too. Um, where if you bring in certain amount of items, you can get a certain discount on your passes, which people like their pass discounts. So,

and same time, when are the dates for this? Um, anytime right now. And so, uh, leading up until, uh, Thanksgiving and into Christmas.

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Um, just two comments. Um, the first one is, uh, I want to thank Mr. afternoon, all the city staff that put on a fabulous mayor's conference uh yesterday in the city of Newark. Um there are so many city staff to thank. I'm just going to thank the entire city staff through you, Mr. Bon. Um but I did want to share uh an email that I was copied on that went to Miss Ghard. Uh and it came from the gentleman that kind of manages the mayors, Steve Brochian. And Mr. Brochian said, "I want to thank you for an extraordinary meeting last night. I must admit that it's one of the best we have had in a long time, and the success is due primarily to your work and the work of your staff. The room was great. The catering was first class. The swag bags were fantastic, and our meeting host was very gracious for allowing us to host the meeting there. Everything went smoothly. I understand it takes a lot of effort to plan and carry out these meetings. So, thank you for all your efforts. Additionally, I know that many Newark staff members were assisting at the meeting and during the planning. Please make sure that we extend gratitude to them. again just the city of Newark just continues to shine when you look at no disrespect to my colleagues on at any of their you know mayor's conferences but we just continue to shine by putting our best forward every opportunity we can to show what we're all about and Mr. afternoon. Uh your staff, I thought Lucid last year was the best. Um I thought last night was equally, if not a little bit better. So big kudos to the staff. Um November the 10th. The importance of that date. Who's a Marine [clears throat] in this room? Any Marines in this room? November the 10th.

He left.

November the 10th. It's the birthday for the United States Marine Corps. The United States Marine Corps birthday is an American holiday celebrated every year on November the 10th with a traditional hall and uh cake cutting ceremony back in DC. Um the Continental Marines were established. The official birthday to the United States Marine Corps is the 10th of November. That was the day when the second Continental Congress established the Continental Marines. And um I had two brothers that served in the Marine Corps. many of our folks in the city organization or and around our community have served. Um, we will be celebrating Veterans Day tomorrow. I believe it's up in Hayward if I'm not mistaken. So, if you have the opportunity, I don't know if that information's on the city's website, Mr. Bon,

it looks like it's an invitation event uh hosted by the supervisor.

Okay. So, um, if you have a veteran that has served, uh, or you have a relative that has served, or you know someone that has served or you see someone wearing just a Vietnam cap, because there's still a few of those folks left, take the time just to say thank you for your service. You know, um, some of us are old enough to remember the folks that came back from Vietnam and and they weren't warmly welcomed back for a variety of reasons. But we've come as a nation a long way to recognize that a lot of these folks um didn't necessarily want to be there, but they did what their country asked them to do and and served. And we lost a lot of good Americans in that uh in that conflict. So, take the time to say thank you to veterans and take, you know, take the time to thank those that are currently serving. Um, because uh that is a uh that's the ultimate sacrifice to to put your life on the line for your country. So, with that being said, I wish everybody a happy Thanksgiving because we will not be meeting again until December. And we will now be adjourning to close session for conformance with Labor Negotiator pursuant to California Government Code Section 54957.6. Six agency designated representative is the mayor myself. The unrepresented employee is our city manager, Mr. Benoon. With that, we will uh adjourn to close session.