Good evening everyone and welcome to the special city council meeting for January 27th, 2026. We have a quorum. Let's begin the meeting, roll call, please.
Council member Maloney, President Vice-Nare Pearson.
President, can you make a statement on your remote participation please?
Yes, I'm pursuant to government call section 54953. I'm appearing remotely due to a medical issue.
Council member Mendesa, here, Council member Orlomans, here.
May or May?
Here, please join me in the pledge of allegiance.
I pledge of allegiance to the reply of the United States of America and to the Republic for which assistance.
And under that, indivisible with liberty and justice for all.
Public comment for tonight's items will be three minutes each.
In order to ensure that all speakers feel welcome to share their views, members of the audience are kindly requested to refrain from applauding
or speaking to the council from the audience without being called upon first.
At the time the public is permitted to address the city council and items listed on the special meeting agenda.
I have one speaker in person, Danny.
Okay.
Stop it, give my visual aids together.
All right, what people have asked?
Why don't I run for office?
Well, the answer is what we're going through right now is the reason.
For the life of me, I'm trying to understand the rationale of your own soul.
I'm not a lawyer, but it just doesn't make sense.
This weekend's Minnesota killing just makes the recommendations of your council.
And therefore your silence.
I'm founding.
But then it hit me.
They're circling the wagons.
And all of you think you're on the inside.
Darren's gone.
She's leaving.
Teach men.
I figure sheltered by BPOA.
They're getting those stories.
They're stories together.
They're trying to paint a narrative.
Did you along to hit her own head?
Was she at that morning?
Was she even behind?
All of that lawyer's speak.
And you five are on the outside looking in.
Now that's why I would never run for office.
Before November 5th, the answer was simple.
I think I can do more on the outside than over there.
Now.
I could not.
I would not be silent.
Whatever reason your hands are tied.
I just couldn't do it.
I couldn't.
I would be demanding to see the video.
I would be.
Live it.
If anyone told me.
We got this.
I just couldn't do it.
You all must have your reasons.
I mean, I like most of you.
So this is hurting me.
But I think you guys truly believe you're on the inside of the wagons that are circle.
And you're not.
You're not.
Two of you are going to be.
I guess running this year.
Three of you in two years.
We need to do better.
Oh, and I'm a call in since one of these missing with the next open comment.
I have no additional speaker cards in person.
Anyone online who'd like to raise their hand to make a public comment may do so now.
Just real quickly with the council's indulgence.
Mr. Dorman, you left something at your seat.
I don't know if you want to take it with you.
And I have no hands raised in Zoom.
Thank you.
Do we have a motion to assess to close session?
So moved.
Second.
Can I have a roll call please?
Council member Maloney.
Yes, nice.
Mayor Pearson.
Yes, and there's nobody present in the room.
Council member Mendosa.
Yes.
Council member Orlanans.
Yes.
Mayor Meyer.
Yes, we own recess to close session.
Thank you.
And just before you do, can I make a clarification for the record.
I'm sorry.
Mr. Mayor Pearson, you indicated that you're participating remotely via government code section 54953.
I just want to clarify.
I think you're participating under just cause, which is 54953.
Point eight, point three is that correct.
That's correct.
Thank you.
Thank you so much.
Thank you.
We have no in recess to close session.
Thank you.
Thank you for waiting. We'll start in just a moment.
You
Thank you for waiting. We are coming back from closed session. There is nothing to report. Do I have a motion to adjourn closed session?
So moved.
All second.
Can I get a roll call, please?
Council member Mendoza.
Yes. Council member Maloney.
Yes. Council member Orlemins.
Yes.
Mayor Meyer.
Yes.
And vice mayor Pearson is absent.
So we are adjourned from closed session.
And we have an answer.
Okay.
We are moving into our regular city council meeting.
We have a quorum, so we can begin with roll call, please.
Council member Maloney.
Vice mayor Pearson is absent. Council member Mendoza.
Yes.
Mayor Meyer.
Here, please join me in the pledge of allegiance.
I pledge allegiance to the flag.
And I can take some of America to the republic for which it stands.
One nation and they're caught in the middle of the city.
And that's the straw.
We are going to start with the presentation.
I'd like to invite Eric and step chief assistant county administrator to present an update on the East County Service Center.
Good evening.
Good evening, Council.
I'm Eric Angstedt.
Chief assistant county administrator for country custody.
And I'm here with my city management analyst.
And we're happy to give you a brief update on the East County Service Center project.
It's here at the city of Brentwood.
This lines are up.
So we're going to cover a little bit of the background for how we got here.
Current site overview.
Talk about the project.
And a little bit about how it integrates with Brentwood's specific plan.
So for background.
The Coast County did a 20 year capital master plan that the Board of Supervisors adopted in September of 2022.
Goals of that for county wide stuff.
We're improving equity access to services and overall customer experience.
Reduced our facility and real estate related costs increase collaboration and resource sharing between departments.
Provide flexibility in new workspaces and continue to increase sort of technical technology add up adoption throughout the county.
One of the things that we found throughout the master planning process was.
East County had the highest population growth over the last decade and continues to have the highest population growth in country custody.
It's also home to the second largest population of county staff.
So many of our staff live out here in East County.
But it had the lowest number of county facilities. So it's been underserved for decades.
So as part of that master planning, the Board of Supervisors agreed that the first of these new county aggregated service centers would be built in East County.
The county's own the six vacant undeveloped parcels along technology way in Brentwood for almost 20 years 15 years since 2011.
So they were bought before I came to the county.
Any 22 master plan, and we were able to buy the large five acre parcels directly south of those six parcels, giving us a total site area of just under eight acres.
Next, please.
So, what we're planning to build there is about a 117,000 square foot, three-story building that will house at the end approximately 440 county staff.
It's bringing together eight major county departments.
The largest, the largest tenant will be the Employment and Human Services Department with multiple of their divisions that provide a lot of the services.
Accounting residents need child and family services, adult-naging services, workforce services, the workforce development board, community services.
Health services also wants to have a number of their administrative programs like their infant nutrition program,
other non-clinical programs in that building.
The clerk recorded elections once to have an office so that people don't have to go all the way into Martinez.
To get clerk services, more election related materials, budget services, and then the public defender or district attorney and probation, all one office space out here,
because there are many of the clients that they're dealing with are in East County.
And the Board of Supervisors District 3 office is also going to be in the building.
And then we'll also have support services like IT and other smaller sections in there to support all of those eight major service departments.
And then it will also have one site security in the building.
So to give a quick overview of the site for anyone who's not totally familiar with this and I know most of you are because you're in breadwood, but many of the rest of the county isn't.
That blue outline is the six parcels and technology way and then the large five acre parcel to the south.
Next please.
The entire site is flat and undeveloped currently.
There's not a lot of developments surrounding it.
Right now you have some residential stuff to the west.
Next.
Looking from the technology way corner.
It is a, again, flat open field with almost no trees.
That's two trees are on the jack in the box site.
They're all the corner of technology way and breadwood.
And again, from breadwood Boulevard looking up.
It's a large undeveloped site and then you have additional undeveloped parcels to the south.
And then across the technology way you have a variety of commercial buildings.
The odd is own and there's also a small daycare school on the corner as well.
So the project itself, what we're proposing is this is a.
That, you know, isometric angle rendering of the three story building.
So it will have a large public plaza between the building and technology way or front on technology way.
And it's, you know, designed to hopefully be a space that when the county is not in service with the buildings that is also a programmable space.
So we've done a similar building complex in downtown Martinez.
The public plaza space is what we like to do is at least offer for the city to have the ability to use that space for programming.
You know, after five on weekdays and on the weekend.
So again, that's something that we would.
It's not for will make to the city when it's when it's ready.
We can have a discussion and see if we can.
Enter into a member item of understanding about using it, but it is something that we as the county will.
Absolutely approach the city about what project is completed.
Okay, sort of an overview.
The parking will be shaded with significant tree cover or and again, these, these are still not final final drawings.
Because we're still in the tell end of the design process.
We're also working to potentially cover a significant portion of the parking lot with solar so that we can generate.
Enough power to power the building and have it be net zero.
But again, that is subject to future financing arrangements that we're currently in discussion with some of the county vendors.
We've in response to you people may have seen an earlier concept drawing from earlier of 2025 that had a very different looking building.
You know, the design is developed over the last year.
We have had contact with city staff and some city electors and some of the feedback we got was a preference for things that related more to Brentwood, so we've changed the color palette on the building.
We've changed the facades and we're trying to bring in you know the colors and and this will also be reflected on the interior decorations the art the graphics you know the agricultural history of Brentwood.
So here are some renderings of it looking east from sort of technology way.
From the west and then a couple of distant shots just to show you how far off kind of Brentwood.
Boulevard it is from the technology way that the tree screen is going to.
Keep the building almost invisible here from Brentwood Boulevard looking up technology if you can just go back for one second.
You can see that the building itself is back from Brentwood Boulevard by about 450 feet.
So it is significantly set back from Brentwood Boulevard.
Then next line thanks.
And then this is looking from Nancy toward it.
So again, it is it is significantly set back and will be significantly screened with the vegetation and from on the parking lot.
So then just a little notes in terms of the Brentwood specific plan.
Only that southern five acre parcels actually in the Brentwood Boulevard specific plan area.
The what parcels a long technology way or not.
The sidewalks is street features along Brentwood Boulevard will be developed consistent with the Brentwood Boulevard standards and in conjunction with the standards that the city Brentwood has.
The public right of ways are are up to the city of Brentwood standards and their desire to have a cohesive and uniform presentation along Brentwood Boulevard.
We are reserving some of the space for a potential future county building in that parking area along Brentwood Boulevard.
So the hope is that maybe in the future the health services division will develop a medical clinic there to continue expanding the.
Such cost to regional hospitals network of care out here and then that would front on Brentwood Boulevard and be integrated with Brentwood Boulevard specific plan desire to have that sort of commercial frontage along Brentwood Boulevard.
And again, we're providing either dense tree cover dense solar and tree cover for the parking lot and then the large plaza on the north side like I said offering a civic space.
It can hold up probably up to 200 people will have a small stage will have power and so again, it's something that we hope that we can enter into an agreement with the city Brentwood for joint use of that because we do want to have it be available as a city man and.
And then just some elevation sort of the traditional views of you see the various.
elements of the building on the front side there on that right hand side that second.
For element is providing shade to the plaza and behind that is to a large conference rooms that will also be available for civic events, but also the way the building is going to be designed.
That will be a sort of a cooling and.
Center for power out so we will have the ability to power that section of the building separately from our solar and battery backup power so in the event of outages, especially outages during the summer when there's high temperatures when sensitive users might need a cooling center.
That will be available as an emergency refuge space or also with the filter the air filtering that will be available also be if we have some of those wildfire days where you get the credible spoke, you know, like when a couple years ago in the sky turn orange.
It will also be a refuge center for those might have you know, breathing difficulties or asthma or something and need to have take refuge.
I'm going to play so it'll be part of our emergency services thing and we'll have a separate electrical system that will be powered.
We're also using geothermal energy primarily for the main heating and clean of the building and the building is going to be built out of a technology called mass timber which is again a leading sort of sustainability.
Technology that will allow us to really improve the carbon footprint of the building over concrete or steel.
And then this is sort of the south side. This is the south sort of entrance.
And that pretty much ends my update. I'm happy to take questions or hear comments or whatever you would like.
Thank you, but you just can't so have.
Yes, go ahead.
Thank you and I just want to make sure that I check and I'm still trying to log in and the meeting started.
But I'm a passage of fear of sitting here present and I am here remotely.
I'm under the just cause.
Thank you so much for your presentation.
I do want to say that I'm grateful for the opportunities.
This is in my district and I'm thankful for the opportunities that we've had to check in.
I think that you all took into consideration a lot of our comments and input and so I am very appreciative that.
I do have a couple of questions.
Some of them were answered in our meeting, but I think that they should be answered public facing.
One of them is.
Will you all be providing employment opportunities that are additional employment opportunities with the expansion of this building being here that.
And we can guarantee them to bring what residents will there be employment opportunities and then I have follow up questions.
Sure, so the.
But during construction so we as accounting we always use full union.
Construction with project labor agreement and with that comes apprenticeship programs that all the trades run so during construction there will be opportunities for apprenticeship programs and all the trades.
And then once the building is open, the workforce development board will be there and the county's workforce development board provides a number of of job opportunities job counseling and job skills training and so operationally yes there will be.
I get way for people to you know look for employment both in the county employee base as well as getting help for any other job opportunities and developing their jobs skills for employment.
Besides the solar panels, what other things is the counts are to do to reduce our profit.
Would there be any EV charges for both the county vehicles as well as the public.
So there will be extensive electric vehicle charging both in the staff parking areas for the staff fleet and for the public facing party.
And then also this is a question that I brought up with the type of offices that will be coming.
In this area will the the opportunities to.
Could it be gets her mental to some of our residents, for example, register sets of vendors coming to check you know to these offices near to schools.
So the probation department will have offices in there and it will be there.
Responsibility to make sure that their clients are in and applying with the rules of their probation.
So if there's somebody who cannot come to the office for service the probation office will be going to them for a service.
Okay, and then thank you for you know telling more about the greenery and the legislation will there be any improvements to Britain with will of our as we know that we have a current.
We're under we're trying to improve that street it's used to be the old highway for before how you know we got.
The road fix. Well, the county can provide any improvements to bring one of our.
Yes, so all of the property that touches along the public right of ways.
The standard improvements like sidewalks.
Landscaping all of that will be part done in conjunction with the city of Brett one because that is something that is in the city's jurisdiction.
So there'll be encouragement permits for all of the work that's required.
To put in the standard, you know, street state improvements.
Thank you.
That's all of my questions.
Other questions. Yeah, I have a couple of questions.
I know city staff has asked for the traffic survey because that's one of the residents biggest concerns do you know when we on council and the public can expect that.
Yeah, the mitigated declaration should be published.
Either the end of this week or the Monday next week.
Okay.
It can make sure that our staff gets an email so that we can know when it's available. Thank you.
Also, there's a lot of homes right there off the technology way.
They have concerns about all the traffic that's going to be coming down their side street.
What what's the reason for having the entrance on technology way, which is kind of a residential side versus Brentwood Boulevard, which can take probably a bigger load of traffic.
Partly, it's the shape of the site and the length of the building.
It would be hard to have an entry that would face Brentwood Boulevard.
And then the second thing is we're reserving some of that land in for potential future county site that would be on Brentwood Boulevard and face Brentwood Boulevard.
Okay, when will you be having a town hall to address the residents and their concerns, so the traffic, the architecture, all of that good stuff.
We weren't planning on having a town hall.
Okay, so I would suggest that you have a town hall with the residents and get their feedback.
We take their opinions in when we're making decisions.
So I think that's important if you want to be a partner to the city and to the residents.
I think that's important that the county do that.
Well, consider it.
Questions.
Just a comment. Thank you very much for providing the update.
I appreciate that you actually came and showed this presentation to all five of us.
So, and the community and everyone watching.
So I do agree.
I think a community meeting would be beneficial just to get people to actually listen and interact kind of like.
How contra-caused to fire did it for fire station 90.
And I think it just brings people's concerns up front, but it would be awesome if you guys could do that.
As I said, we'll consider.
Thank you.
Thank you very much.
Objects. No objection. Thank you. So we will start with inviting G.D. Crowder. Keep executive officer for Nami Contro Costa. And we will also be inviting where
lucky to have two for this. Jessica Eastman Stewart and Anita Simpson, with the Brentwood Black History Month or a
Teracle Committee.
We are going to start with reading the proclamation. And then I would love for G.D. and then
when we are presented from your group to speak as well. And we hope you all feel welcome. We are
very honored to honor you today. Thank you so much for joining us.
Whereas Black History Month is a time to recognize and honor the rich history, culture,
achievements, contributions, and resilience of African Americans whose influence is woven
throughout our history. And whereas the Association for the Study of African American Life and History
A.S.A.L.H. has designated the 2026 National theme as a century of Black History
commemorations, marking 100 years since Dr. Carter G. Woodson initiated the first Negro history week
in 1926. An observation that evolved into Black History Month and continues to deepen our
collective understanding of African American history and legacy. And whereas Black History is American
history and recognizing the contributions of African Americans, strengthens community awareness,
honors those who struggled for freedom and justice, and inspires leaders to uphold the values
of equality, opportunity, and dignity for all. And whereas by celebrating Black History Month,
the city of Brentwood reaffirms its commitment to diversity, inclusion, and the educational enrichment
of all residents through programs, observances, and events that celebrate cultural heritage,
and promote unity and understanding throughout our community. Now therefore it be proclaimed
that the City Council of the City of Brentwood hereby recognizes February 2026 as Black History Month.
So you're going to start with GG. This is your proclamation we would love for you to say a few words.
Thank you all for recognizing this month. It's really important. Well we have a couple more days,
but you're early. And that's really important because it's one of the shortest
month in the year but because we're here in Brentwood we get other days, right? We get even more days.
But it's really important. I sit on a lot of committees where we're trying to address the disparities
that take place in this county, whether it be health, whether it be education, whether it be
physical health, mental health, African-Americans tend to have the poorest outcomes. So that's one of
the reasons that in addition to being the CEO of Nami National Alliance and Mental Illness,
I also started a campaign called 40 voices. And we have an African-American holistic wellness hub
we have to use private dollars most of the mind to put in place because we recognize that the
healing should not wait until this beautiful building is here in Brentwood when I'm so excited about it coming
because I might apply for one of the jobs, okay? But we have to wait to social services move out of
cavalo before we get the county to find it. And I just feel like that's that's not that's actually
too much for our community that also pays taxes here. So I appreciate the city of Brentwood. I feel
privileged to know most of you. I don't know you, but I'll get to know you. But I'm really close to each of the
council members and I appreciate all you've done. Thank you. Thank you, Gigi. And I'm going to ask the
Brentwood Black History Month an oratorical group to have someone speak as well. And then we'll take
pictures separately who would like to speak. I thank you for this honor. So we are a small but mighty group
that this oratorical started about four years ago for you that didn't know. And it started at Pioneer Elementary
School and this year we have over a hundred people students across five school or across eight
schools participating in the Black History oratorical this Sunday from one to three next door at Liberty
Auditorium sold out. We have about 600 tickets that we've sold. And so really we have not only just
African-American students but all students allies that are performing and celebrating Black excellence
where you have a tea care that's going to sing Lou Raw. We have a punk brand that's going to play
Michael Jackson. I get it's going to be a fabulous time and we absolutely thank the city but not all
of that but our districts for their leadership, Dr. Eaton, for all the support that the principals have
provided and helping us get to this spot. And then also just all of the monetary. This is donations
we are volunteering outside of the school, the work, the kids, all of the things the activities
were coming together on weekends, nights, all nights. So we thank you for this opportunity and for
recognizing the hard work that these amazing individuals have been putting forth. It is definitely a
labor of love and I appreciate you guys all very much for again celebrating and acknowledging
Black excellence here in Brooklyn. So thank you. Thank you and we will start with Gigi. We want to
make sure we're standing in front of the screen so the vice-american take part. I'm not there for Gigi
and the nature and all the peers who put on this amazing composition. I want to say too I appreciate Gigi.
She has been an incredible support to my family during some times of challenge. So it's very
meaningful to have you here and accept this award.
Thank you, Gigi.
Thank you all. See you Sunday.
Council doesn't have to go sit just yet.
And now we would like to bring forward Ian Cohen and the FBLA chapter advisor Mark Tinder
and anyone else if you want to bring up your group. This is for the future business leaders of America.
And we'll read the Proclamation first. Whereas the future business leaders of America,
FBLA is a nonprofit educational organization dedicated to preparing middle school, high school
and collegiate students for careers in business and leadership through relevant career preparation,
innovative leadership development and community engagement. And whereas FBLA week nationally
recognized each year during February, celebrate students who are making their mark,
demonstrating impact growth, ambition, innovation and leadership as they prepare for future
careers in a global society. And whereas the Liberty Union High School District's FBLA chapters in
the city of Brentwood have exemplified academic excellence, community service and dedication to leadership
in business education, making significant contributions to our community through competitive events,
volunteerism and civic engagement and whereas the outstanding achievements and commitment
demonstrated by FBLA members contribute to the economic vitality of our community and help
cultivate the next generation of business leaders in Brentwood across California and nationally.
Now therefore it be proclaimed that the city council of the city of Brentwood hereby recognizes the
week of February 8th through 14th, 2026 as future business leaders of America week.
And who would like to speak?
Well if it's okay, Mayor, if we have just three people speak or kind of the office wants to introduce,
I'll keep it short and I'll just need to step in very long. But we'll go even in council staff,
you know it's been forever since it's been in here like since very since last year. It's not too
late to still make that joke. But as you've heard a million in one times, I have built this chapter
from nursing with Mr. Mark Tender and now we've been from seven members to 31 competitors to
now 49 competitors this year. And I'll refer to your going to regional. It's regional since the day
before the Super Bowl, which I know we're all kind of disappointed about who's playing the Super Bowl. So
at least we have something to root for but sorry, no bad bunny at this event. But we will be in
Sam Ramone just across the county from here. But we hope to bring it in Brentwood in the future to fight
for the better and for it with title here. But just I would love to introduce by 2025, 2020,
six board of office response, but first I'll hand it off to Mr. Mark Tender. Well quick. I want to thank
the council and the mayor. Thank you very much for this. We meet future business leaders of America
is the largest CTSL that's quered tech student organization in the United States. And it's it's
really exciting. We meet every Tuesday in my classroom and we have up to 60 members in our classroom.
On Wednesdays after school, they're in my classroom. They're preparing for competition. And they do this
on their own. Again, I thank everybody to be participants and this is a student run organization.
Not teacher led but I'm the advisor. It is student run and they're excited and we look forward to
going to state and possibly nationals like Ian Cohen did a couple years ago. And so thank you very much.
And then I'll love the officers just to say their name will correct and introduce themselves to
the council since this is their first time. Well, some of them are on the youth commission,
but some of them this is their first time being in this room. Hello, hello. Good evening council. My name
is Dan Hemsoy. Obviously, don't know me. This is my first time here. And this is my second year at this club,
my first year serving as the director of competition. So it's really amazing to be here. And I can say
that in my one year of experience, I'm extremely proud and happy of what our club has been able to
achieve. I mean, if we look at our like previous competition seasons, we could see that two years ago,
we had five awards one at the regional section conference called the B.S.L.C.
based on leadership conference for short. The next year following that, we jumped all the way over to
30 recognition awards one. And this year we're coming with an even bigger squad. We're looking
to win more. We're looking to find greater success. And I mean, we're looking to find greater success.
And this is really good news for us because especially being in our infancy of this club is only
our third year here. And we're looking to do all these great and big things. So I want to thank you
Council and Mayor Meyer, of course, for being able to recognize F.B.L. a week. Thank you.
Hello, everyone. I'm Yishan. I'm a junior at Heritage High School in the chapter president of Heritage
High F.B.L. And despite being one of the newest chapters in the base section, we've proven ourselves
to be a solid competitor and consistently sent people to the state and e-international competition.
Our members compete in a variety of events, ready for business, law, and tech, and other career-related
events as well. And as we continue to grow, I hope that we can continue to represent
Brentwood and our school at the section, state, and national level. And thank you for all of your support.
You can say your name if you'd like to. Hi, everyone. So I'm the secretary of
I'm so glad to meet you guys. We've put a lot of work into funding on our club and we've put our glass for everyone supporting you.
Hello everyone, my name is Fischfacherum and I'm the director of competitions at FBLA's Heritage High Schools FBLA chapter.
Having helped members study and prepare for their competitive events at FBLA, I'm really grateful for being surrounded by these strong and motivated people determined to succeed.
And I cannot, and I look forward to helping grow this chapter in the future. Thank you for your support.
Thank you.
Moving into public comments.
The public comment on for tonight's items will be three minutes each.
In order to ensure that all speakers feel welcome to share their views, members of the audience are kindly requested to refrain from applauding or speaking to the council from the audience without being called upon first.
I have to send the public as permitted to address the city council and items that are not listed on the agenda items that are listed under informational reports are on the consent calendar presentations or request for future agenda items new requests comments for the meetings detailed agenda items or business items should be made when those items are called.
Please limit your remarks to three minutes or your microphone will be muted when the timer expires.
The first speaker I have is Sahil.
Hello, city council staff and city council members.
Thank you.
Letting me present some brief remarks regarding the work of our youth commission.
First, hello everybody.
My name is Sahil.
I'm a commissioner on the Brentwood Youth Commission.
And now I'll still deeper into what we're doing.
Right now the youth commission is prioritizing new recreational events tailored for youth and fundraisers to keep the commissioners coffers going.
New events that are almost confirmed.
That should be our a career fair for older youth, which should be taken place around March to April, which intends to feature large amounts of small local businesses and mentors.
Alongside a completely unrelated stem fair, which would be taken place around early May meant for younger audiences there will be hands on activities and a large space for.
And plenty of Brentwood exhibitors to display whatever project they'll be doing.
And finally, we also launched our new youth commission civic as a competition separate from our already originating scholarship that.
A lot was launched on January 8th and all of that details can be found on our spring activities guys registration page.
And so yep, also finally we will be opening up more vacancies for all the term limited commissioners in the next couple of months.
So yeah, finally I would just like to give a big thank you to Miss Madam Mayor Meyer and to the whole city council for allowing the commission to exist and supporting our initiatives all these years.
Now with that.
But thank you city council staff and city council members, I yield the floor.
The next speaker is Melissa.
Good evening.
On Monday, California Assembly member Matt Haney introduced AB 1633.
Legislation that would impose a 50% tax on the profits of private ISD tension centers operating in California.
I'm here tonight to urge this council to draft and send a formal letter in support of this bill.
The proposal comes at a moment when the actions of ICE are once again drawing national alarm.
On New Year's Eve, Keith Porter was shot and killed in Los Angeles while ringing in the New Year.
And in Minnesota, Renee Good and Alex Pretty were also murdered.
All victims were gone down by federal immigration authorities, barking protest and renewed scrutiny of ICE's tactics.
These are not isolated incidents.
They are part of a broader pattern of aggressive enforcement lack of accountability and violence that has real devastating consequences for families and communities.
AB 1633 recognizes that the harm caused by ICE is inseparable from the private detention industry that profits from it.
Massive corporations are making hundreds of millions of dollars by incarcerating people.
Separating families and operating facilities with documented histories of medical neglect abuse and death.
These profits are made possible because detention has turned into a business that relies on suffering to remain viable.
While ICE detention centers may not be physically located in every city, residents are taken from our communities and sent to these facilities across California.
What happens in those detention centers affects our neighbors, our coworkers, our classmates and our families.
AB 1633 is a strategic and lawful way for California to push back.
When direct to challenges to federal immigration policy are limited, the state can and should act to remove the financial incentives that fuel detention and abuse.
This bill does exactly that by discouraging expansion and holding for profit detention corporations accountable.
A letter of support from this council would matter.
It would affirm that our city rejects the idea that incarceration and family separation should generate corporate profit.
It would show solidarity with immigrant communities living in fear.
And it would send a clear message to the state legislature that local governments expect leadership grounded in human dignity, accountability and justice.
I respectfully urge you to take the step and drop the letter in support of AB 1633.
Thank you for your time and for your commitment to the values of this community and what makes us better and brought away.
The next speaker is Ray followed by.
Good evening.
I'm Ray and I managed the Brentwood Library just across the street there.
So the Brentwood Library represents an investment that the city makes in its community.
So I wanted to come and share what we're doing this month.
Brentwood families have enjoyed borrowing mystery picture book bundles to celebrate picture book month.
Children have been building their early literary literacy skills at the library with a clue game in the children's area all month long.
And our insider program, which offers people with intellectual and developmental disabilities access to the library and social connection has been flourishing in its new time slot on the first and third Wednesday mornings of each month.
Overall, it's been a wonderful start to 2026 and we're looking forward to 2022.
February as well.
On February 9th, local author and educator Felicia Lang will help our libraries to celebrate black children's book week with a story time and craft program.
The teen area will be home to a fall in love with black history book display all month.
And on Wednesdays after school, teens can join creative workshops in music, poetry and spoken word offered by the Youth Arts Connection.
And orphaned a safe space to chill and be social in the libraries midweek makes up program.
Overall, there's something for everyone at the Brentwood library, so I hope to see each of you over there sometime.
Thank you.
Good evening, Madam Mayor, council members and staff.
I was session, I already shared and I've been sharing pretty consistently since I've been coming.
Many of us lead with social issues and they're very important and there's a lot of new and since I have been very consistent with faith and religious freedom is very important to me.
I came as a refugee from a country that killed over 20 million Christians and so I very passionate about this topic ever since April.
I've been coming. I've been very consistent and clear.
These are kind of the policies I look forward to make sure religious freedom is protected to make sure policies honor all religions and so I'm very passionate.
Some of you might not know, but I actually want to move here as a child. I didn't speak English.
We lived in Belflower, Mr. W. You might know the area.
I think you worked in one of the city's neighbouring net, but it was not a white, let's say suburban neighborhood.
We were one of the few white families and I quickly learned in my ESL class English second language that I absolutely love Spanish and I absolutely love all of the Hispanic people.
It's not in the park and it was such a great experience but at one point there was one boy that started coming and harassing us.
He called as Russian spies. We had nuclear warhead and I started to be very afraid to go to my school.
He actually drove up with his cousin as we were walking home. I was third grade, fourth grade, fifth grade and he beat us up.
And so, ever since then, I was afraid to go to school, not because it was a predominantly Latino neighborhood but because of that one boy.
And so, I just wanted to kind of ask the city to start to, I love Madam Mayor, how you make us feel safe about like, let's not clap.
But I've noticed there's a lot of William language that comes and seeps into these chambers.
I was called racist last week and I spoke to you, Mr. Duffy, about how do we navigate something that is not true, I'm sensitive to that kind of language because of my background
and the bullying that I endured as a child. And so, I love the passionate debates and I bring my children here.
But my daughter was here to 11 o'clock with me. I couldn't arrange a baby sitting before her and we got into the car.
And my daughter said, Mommy, are they going to kill you?
And she felt that we in this, we have children and youth commissioner that speak here.
And as we open the Zoom meetings to the public comment, there's a new law.
I would appreciate some policy around eatful speech and words that use fully used racist and sex is homophobic, this type of language is very demeaning and it doesn't get us anywhere.
I love Ms. Melissa's comment and as I'm immigrant, I am very nuanced about immigration policy. My husband is a Hispanic, she'll let me call her son, all of my kids speaks.
I have no additional speaker cards in person. I do have two hands raised in Zoom.
First speaker is Sinsiana. Sinsiana, go ahead.
Good evening. I hope everyone can hear me.
I am here to confirm that I am not represented in tonight's city council meeting.
My district represent live as MIA. I don't understand why. We all show up for work like that or not.
So she should be in a chambers.
This is her, I don't know, fifth, sixth, maybe almost 10, time-missing meeting or calling in remotely, even though, you know, she's really outraged.
She has to be on Zoom and put her video on, I mean, this is simply ridiculous.
People in her district elected her to be there for them and she cannot even show up.
I don't see my timer again. I'm not really sure what the issue is, so I would appreciate 30 second warning.
Another remark I want to say about my district representative, she knows who she is, part of district 2.
She didn't even show up for the land and used development meeting.
I'm pretty sure it was council because of her not being available.
of herna being available, or not being legally allowed to participate remotely. So city attorney
really needs to call her out and literally make her understand that land use is one of the main issues
residents of Brentwood, Keraba. This proves she's out of touch. She leads as she campaign, away and remotely,
Oksana, no refugees from Russia, prays like you, unless you resent your religion and
converted to some non-artodox religion. 20 seconds. Thank you, I appreciate that warning. And
there's nothing wrong with that, but stopping an hypocrite. We only started to show up to these meetings,
city council meetings, we're no real contribution. I have a
speaker as timer has expired. The next speaker is Danny. Danny, go ahead.
Great, thank you. Really quick. There are a lot of people there. And listening, be changing our
garbage schedule. As I told my wife, this is a state thing, but I would love some clarity. And here's my dilemma.
The way I understand it right now is that we're going to put food and other debris in our green,
which I'm not quite sure of a the bio-hazard aspect of that, but it is what it is and when it gets
somebody is going to kind of post the in there. My problem is that at least right now unless someone
can clarify it is, green will be picked up every other week. So in theory, we'll have hot garbage in the
summer, just walked in away. And so I'm hoping to get clarity on that. And clarity on if we're going to
throw away the garbage, food products and the associate paper and plastic things like that.
And we're going to use our blue with our blue exactly what are we going to be putting in brown.
So that's it. Thank you guys. Talk to you soon.
The next speaker is Tracy. Tracy go ahead.
Can you hear me? Yes, we can.
Okay, good. Okay, so I'm I'm going to start off all in a outrage. First thing is
Mike has made me mad saying he was going to consider a town hall. No, you don't consider it because
they work for us. We pay them. So there's no considering anything and that was very offensive and I'm
pretty pissed off about that quite frankly. And then second of all, I've been up in arms
about this building and I have sent an email yesterday. Didn't even get a auto reply. Got no response.
And she knew darn well that this hearing was being held today on this agenda. Not even so much as like,
oh, let me get back to you and I know you're upset. Well, blah, blah, nothing. And then another person said
he wrote last week and didn't hear anything. So yeah, I'm upset. First of all, for the spending.
I know we need stuff and I'm not opposed to that, but I'm feeling like right now at this moment.
You know, we went from apparently spending 4.5 billion like five years ago to 7.1. And then
I could be wrong. And then we're going to pay for a 130,000 dollar building that will probably
go even over that and includes office space for the supervisors who apparently can't even call you back.
I mean, this is just offensive to me. Anyway, I know people need help, but perhaps it could have been done
on a lesser scale. And I know I can't do anything, but on top of that, and then turn around and ask for a
sales tax increase and ask for a lifting of their tax caps all while building this building.
Like how much money do they think we have? I don't know. I'm mad and it's not your fault
and I'm new to the city and I'm all up in arms. So I probably sound crazy, but I appreciate you listening to me.
The next speaker is Ron.
Ron, go ahead.
Are you there? Yes, go ahead. So can I speak on item D1 on the agenda?
This would be for items. So let me double check on in public comments. Or is there a public comment
section for D1 later? For informational reports, D for these. These county services building?
On the for the presentation, yes. Okay. Good evening Mayor, Mayor Council and staff.
Apparently I've been at this sleep at the wheel for about the last decade because
this East County services building has just been known to me for maybe a couple months.
I had no idea that this was coming to Brightwood and at a cost of $130 million. I know it's a county building.
I know we need services out here. I guess there might be around 300 interactions per day from what I'm hearing.
And I understand it'll serve the residents for the greater good. But I've asked for services
from the county. I went into the county building on walnut bull of hard. We were having some trouble
last year in our neighborhood and basically what I got from the county representative was we can't
help you as a city issue. It's not just a city issue where we're dealing with. And I feel like the
county has let us down big time. And so and also the city. The money spent on this building could be
put to better use. And I'm frustrated. I'm a little ticked. Like I said, I know we all need services,
but this monstrosity of a project is just it's not going to end the raising our taxes. They're charging
more sales tax so East County residents be ready and beware because it's getting out of hand.
Thank you. Have a good night. I have no additional hands raised in Zoom. Thank you. I would like to
like for staff to reach out to the presenters and push on a town hall. I think we're hearing that a lot
of our residents have questions and concerns and they should be heard. So I'd really like to see
for the county to give us that. Not just consider it. And I'd also like to recommend based on
public comments and what I think each of us are probably receiving emails on that we do a town hall on
SB 1383. I know we've been doing some promotion on that. We've been setting news letters and social media posts,
but it seems there are still remaining questions and concerns about that. So I would like to see
something like that. 13. Sorry. 1383 SB 1383 is related to the changes that are going to happen
in waste management and their quest for you to move your food items from your food describes from your
regular garbage can into your green waste bin and there are a lot of changes that are coming based on
state law that we can't control, but I do feel like we should give people a chance to come in person
and ask questions. It's being implemented as a February 1st, the right, the state law.
Thank you for the question. Yes, we are beginning the residential of our compliance efforts on February 1st,
the law itself has been in place for some number of years already. Thank you. So I think it's going to have to
be a timely request that people are clear moving into this transition what exactly they need to do.
So I'll trust staff to work on figuring something out with that and then promoting it so that we can
get it out there and people can attend. Thank you. At this point, I would like to move item D, the
informational reports portion of the agenda to just before consideration of future agenda items and also move
item H4, which is the DBC MOU, ahead of other agenda items and we will move into consent first
and then move into D4. Any questions on that from council? Okay, thank you. Do I have a motion on consent?
I'll make the motion. I'll make the motion for consent. A second.
A roll call, please. Council member Maloney. Yes, Vice Mayor Pearson. Yes, and there is no Vice President of our
Council member Mendesa. Yes, Council member Orlimans. Yes. Mayor Mayor. Yes, thank you. And I'd like to
move into item H4. Madam Mayor, are we going to have informational reports? Yes, I just said we're moving
it to the end of the meeting again. Sorry. That's okay. It's going to be, let me repeat where it's
going to be. So everyone's clear just before the consideration of future agenda item requests. Thank you.
And for item H4, Abraham Salinas Senior Management Analyst will present an update on the MOU between
the city and the downtown Brett with coalition. Thank you, Abraham.
Good evening. A lot of will mayors. Members of the city council.
Mr. Abraham Salinas Senior Management Analyst with the Economic Development Team.
Here to present to you a presentation regarding the downtown Brett with coalition's MOU.
This MOU was established in 2024 and will be expiring in June of 2026.
But there's an update from staff and the DVC themselves. So I'll just provide some brief background
about that. That's to Kristen Mendes Executive Director. So downtown Brett would continue to serve as
a dynamic stand thriving hub for community gatherings, small business activity and diverse arts and
cultural events throughout the year. A key contributor to this ongoing success is the city's partnership
with the downtown Brett with coalition. In July of 2024, the city entered into the MOU with the DVC
to continue joint efforts and sustain the height and the occupancy, new business launches,
increased foot traffic, and strong event attendance. The current MOU remains in effect through June
2026 and the outlines key areas of collaboration including administration, programming,
fund development, and fund development, all of which are being successfully implemented.
A detailed quarterly report summarizing the DVC's fiscal year 2024-2025 activities is attached
to the staff report. But with that, I'll pass it on to Kristen Mendes. Thank you.
Good evening. Good evening, Mayor Madam or my god Madam Mayor. That's a great start you guys.
Vice Mayor, council members, city officials and members of our community. I'm Kristen Mendes, the executive
director of the downtown Brett with coalition. I just wanted to start by thanking all of you guys, my board
of directors and our community for letting me serve in this position for just about eight months now.
It has been an honor and I've really fallen in love with our community and our city.
Like Abraham said, I've prepared a 2025 impact report that you guys all have gotten before this and I
hope you had a chance to review it. I did prepare a short video for you guys to watch that we're
going to watch now to highlight all the great work we've done together.
Downtown Broward is a special place that brings our community together to celebrate, connect,
and support the local businesses and organizations at the heart of our city. I'm Kristen Mendes,
executive director of the downtown Brett with coalition. I've been in this role for about eight months.
During year-round events that bring people together, our work is guided by a dedicated board of directors, who bring a diverse experience and shared commitment to downtown.
This year, DVC has hosted 12 community events, bringing over 35,000 visitors to downtown. These events promoted economic growth by connecting people with our shops, our restaurants, and experiences. Events like bags and brews on Memorial Day weekend, includes a military tribute, honoring the local heroes who gave some of them.
Our full-day festival, Octoberfest, continues to be a community favorite.
In 2025, we also introduced if you knew events were so proud to add to our roster. Our first annual crab feeds sold out for its first year,
and the response made it clear this is something the community wants to see again and again.
We also launched harvest table, a community dining acceleration showcasing downtown Brentwood's local restaurants and seasonal harvests.
Our downtown chefs work together to create an elevated six-course dining experience, with table service provided by Liberty High's Chairspot, and live entertainment from local groups like Ghost Light Theatre and Brentwood Collective.
Collaboration was a key driver in 2025. We hosted multiple joint mixers, one in particular with the Chamber of Commerce at LaConda Capri.
We joined the City of Brentwood's Juneteenth celebration by hosting the Freedom Walk, Coloring Stations, and supplied gift bags for our youth.
We also supported major civic celebrations, by providing announcers and judges for the 4th of July parade, the veteran state parade, and the holiday parade, promote other local events such as hometown Halloween, dinner events, festivals, markets and many others.
Part of KTVU's Fox 2 Summer Zip Trips, a live on-air, elevated Brentwood's profile and expanded our reach throughout the Bay Area.
They highlight interviews with city leaders, nonprofits, farmers, business owners, and residents.
Throughout the year, we welcomed families downtown through popular retail events, like the Bestie Bash, Mama Palusa, and FanFavorite Bubbles in broomsticks,
which lit up the night with crowds dancing, laughing, eating, shopping, and enjoying downtown together.
A meaningful addition this year with Santa Ana Park.
We hosted a two-day event with three Santa photos, performances by Liberty Choir, virtuous voices, and amazing local young artists.
This event brought holiday joy to hundreds of families. It's an event we planned to bring back.
A thriving downtown also depends on strong partnerships.
In 2025, we worked closely with organizations that serve Brentwood, and unite our community around real support for others.
One example is the Mayor's Challenge.
We encourage schools and the downtown businesses to participate, help promote across the community, and have downtown serve as a donation drop-off site.
All of this supported the Brentwood Regional Community Chest, helping local families in need during the holidays.
We also expanded hands-on community work through Brentwood Shine.
The DBC proudly partners with working wonders supporting adults with disabilities, participants gain meaningful work experience, confidence, and social connection.
We also introduced Cowluck of Courage, a fashion-focused fundraiser posted at this historic Delta Theatre benefiting in venture therapy, building visibility for participating businesses while supporting families impacted by cancer.
Now we have a dedicated DBC office. The space currently serves as a work space for the executive director.
Once fully ADA compliant, including a ramp installation, it will be able to offer even more services and resources to the public.
This year we also began the transition from a 501 C6 to a 501 C3.
This change will allow the downtown Brentwood Coalition to serve the entire downtown community by offering broader programs,
events, and support the benefits all businesses and community members.
It also strengthens partnerships and aligns us with the model used by most downtown coalition.
2025 also marked a major step in our rebrand.
We launched a fresh new modern website that highlights our businesses, events, and local charm in a more engaging user-friendly way.
Running our monthly newsletters and events through the website now will only gain more exposure to our amazing downtown.
We strengthen our social media presence through consistent storytelling and community collaboration.
That effort increased our reach from 1.2 million to 3.3 million.
In collaboration with the city staff, we also took an active role in keeping downtown Brent, clean and welcoming.
One of the biggest wins was helping resolve a three year trash and clean up issue on Helen Meyer alleyway,
and supporting the city and moving long delayed construction forward.
We also supported additional street cleaning efforts to help maintain a vibrant city center.
Some work is the kind people notice without always knowing who's behind it.
Our board personally manages the American flag to display downtown.
It's a simple tradition that reflects real downtown.
We are also focused on accessibility and business support.
In partnership with the city we began to work to help ensure every downtown business becomes ADA compliant.
This is an ongoing effort that reflects our commitment to inclusion and to a downtown that works for everyone.
Looking ahead in 2026 and beyond, our focus remains clear.
Support local businesses, strengthen partnerships and create memorable experiences that bring people into the downtown border and keep our historical district thriving.
Thank you to our board of directors, downtown businesses, nonprofit partners, city staff, volunteers, sponsors,
and every resident who supported our downtown Brent with this year.
Thank you to the city and the city officials for investing in the executive director role.
Together we are strengthening the leadership needed to drive sustainable economic growth into the downtown corridor.
Your support is what makes this great work possible.
I'm Chris Dominguez, the proud executive director of the downtown Brentwood Coalition.
I'm grateful for their opportunity to continue serving and strengthening our beautiful downtown Brentwood.
See you in downtown.
You need the mic needs to be turned on.
So I've probably watched that about 30 times and it does fill me with pride, but it also shows me that we are just getting started and I have so many other things I'd like to do for our city.
I'd like to take a moment just to recap and walk through some numbers and details that help kind of show everything that you just saw in the video.
First is important to understand that not all of our events are designed to be revenue generating.
Our focus is community development and economic growth.
Many of our events are intentionally created to help support struggling businesses increase foot traffic.
Provide opportunities for youth and community members to be involved and strengthen our downtown.
This past year we generated approximately $34,000 in event revenue.
In addition to that we've donated $4,000 local nonprofits and spent nearly $2,000 supporting the Brentwood Shine project.
Another nonprofit effort.
Like you saw we hosted the catwalk of courage this year.
All proceeds went directly to adventure therapy and the coalition did not retain any funds.
Santa in the park was entirely for the community and event we funded without any revenue in return.
These events reinforce that our events are centered on community impact and economic vitality and not profit.
So I wanted to touch based on some things that come to my desk all the time.
We get the question a lot why does the city help fund downtown Broward Coalition?
And to me the answer is very simple.
We do more than just host events.
We collaborate with nonprofits.
We partner with organizations.
We support local businesses and we serve as a liaison between the city and the downtown merchants.
We assist with city beautification efforts.
Help address ADA compliance needs and identify updates necessary to move downtown forward.
In my research I found that most downtown coalitions including those in our neighboring cities received financial support from their city officials.
For example, Pittsburgh receives approximately $100,000.
Livermore receives 90,000.
And Martinez receives 50,000 annually.
Another common question I get is why is a coalition?
Why does the coalition have use of the house in downtown our offices?
What's often overlooked is that we fully maintain and sustain that building with our own funds.
We've read on the floors added new landscaping and pay ongoing costs for pest control,
Electroplusage, replacing the heating and air conditioning unit and maintaining and managing.
What does need to be required to keep that historical building operational?
We've also transformed it into a welcoming hub for the community.
A place where residents can come in and ask questions and access local information.
We are nearly fully ADA compliant and are currently gathering bids to install a ramp.
At the same time we are actively speaking to local sponsors to help fund this effort.
And we're hopeful to get this complete in the next coming months.
I understand that this MAU funding was intended to be temporary.
But I do believe the work that we do for downtown bro would support continuing the model used by our neighboring cities.
One where the coalition will receive continued financial backing from the city.
Another option that we have previously explored was the pivot process.
While it was started with limited city access, the financial burden is significant and would fundamentally change the coalition.
That that process typically takes about two years and requires an estimated 30 to 50,000 dollars in fundraising to just get started.
Additionally, self-sufficiency through events alone is not sustainable.
As our mission is focused on community and economic development rather than revenue generating.
Regarding Octoberfest, the $44,000 grant goes directly towards producing that event.
And the $5,000 fee return offset supportion of more than $9,000 we pay in police and security costs that are required.
City event fees and regulations are increasing.
We needed five guards at our last most recent event, the crowd feed.
This will continue to impact our operational costing costs.
That may use supports not only these efforts, but also the executive director role, which allows us to provide the constant day-to-day support or downtown and community has come to rely on.
I am incredibly proud of my board, their dedication, drive and belief in our downtown.
And they continue to push us forward.
I believe in the executive executive director role to be vital to the long-term economic growth and sustainability of downtown Brentwood.
The downtown Brentwood Coalition is an extension of the city.
It's businesses and its community.
We thrive on collaboration, listening to business owners, understanding their challenges and working alongside them to succeed.
We're proud to partner with the other local organizations, such as the Chamber, Rotary, Seroptimists and Lions Club,
knowing that when we all work together the entire city benefits.
Thank you for your time and your support and your continued investment in the downtown Brentwood Coalition.
I'm excited to see what's ahead, and I'm truly grateful to be a part of this work.
That's it.
Thank you.
Do we have clarifying questions from Council?
Okay.
Moving into public comment, please.
At this time, the public is permitted to address the city council on this agenda item.
We did receive five written public comments in advance of this meeting.
The summary of which will be displayed on the screen.
The first public speaker I have is Amy.
Good evening, Mayor and members of the city council.
I was trying to rewrite what I was going to say real quick because I didn't want to repeat things that you're going to hear from other people.
So I'll try to summarize it pretty quickly.
I just like to take a moment to thank you for your continued support of the downtown Brentwood Coalition.
And I also share my appreciation for Kristen Mingus and the impact the executive director position has on the downtown Brentwood Coalition.
I'm speaking both as a downtown business owner and as a member of the Coalition's Board of Directors.
Kristen stepped into a role.
Everybody knows this that left very big issues to feel after Amy Tully's resignation.
And I feel like she's handled that transition with an incredible amount of grace, humor, and kindness.
Her position is extremely valuable to the Coalition as she is focused on organizing and supporting the downtown Brentwood Coalition in our downtown businesses.
Our Board is mostly made up of business owners, people who care deeply about the downtown, but don't always have a surplus of time.
And in the interim before Kristen started the executive director position, we all definitely felt the impact and the strain that it caused not having that position filled.
And she's carried on the important work that Amy Tully started and has taken every challenge that we've thrown at her with professionalism and heart.
And as she said that October fest, the different events that we throw have gotten more successful and larger over time.
And really I just believe that her role is invaluable. I'm grateful for the dedication and care she brings to our downtown community.
Followed by a mail?
Good evening, Mayor Meyer, Vice Mayor Pearson and city council and staff. I had something written prepared,
but I'm sorry, after that presentation that Chris and just did, she said it all. She did an amazing job.
I'm so proud of her and what she has accomplished in the short time that she has been with us. And
the DBC and the city of Broward need an executive director in this position to continue
with our downtown continuing to thrive. We've created so many great new events this year with the
crowd feed and the harvest table and we're going to continue those on our years to come. And
we're getting more ideas and more suggestions on different ways that we can help our downtown
business community. And without an executive director, none of those things are going to be possible.
We are a board of small business owners and stakeholders and volunteers. And we need somebody that can
run and guide us through the continued growth of downtown. So that's all I got it. We love
Chris and she's done a fantastic job and we can't see what she can't wait to see what she'll do in the future.
So thank you for your time.
Good evening Mayor and city council. My name is Deod Medal and I'm the owner of sorry love. I'm
just outside of downtown Broward. I want to thank the city for your continuing to support our downtown
community through the executive director position of the downtown Broward Coalition.
Before joining the board, I experienced firsthand how impactful the executive director role is as a
downtown business owner. Through promotion, events and consistent visibility, my business was supported
out a critical time and that support played a real role in the growth of my business.
After joining the board, I've been able to see the full scope of this position. When we did not have
an executive director for several months, that worked shifted to volunteer board members. Most of us
are business owners and it was really difficult to maintain sustainability. Since Chris and stepped into
the role, I've seen the momentum return. Her work directly supports economic growth,
strengthens community building creates long-term sustainability and brings real vitality to downtown.
The benefits of her work extend beyond individual businesses in downtown are entire city and community
benefits. Not all of this work is meant to generate profit and it shouldn't be. It's purpose is to
activate downtown support local businesses and advance the city's broader goals. The executive
director position is not just for the DVC. This role serves as a daily connection with the
city and is essential to the continued growth of Brentwood. I hope the city will continue to support
our executive director position, which has proven to be critical to our downtown Brentwood community. Thank you.
I'm a resident and part of the historic family that has been in Brentwood since 1865.
I thank you Mayor Susanna for allowing me to speak in council. I'm one of the directors on the
downtown coalition. This is our historic part of Brentwood here in downtown. It takes effort, dedication,
caring, involved parties to keep downtown beautiful vibrant and successful destination. I believe that
every citizen in this city has an obligation to support and participate in protecting
and promoting the traditions held here in our ever changing community. I speak tonight first of all
to thank the city for the positive promotions and support, but I'm also speaking to encourage this city
planning and Brentwood residents to recognize and respect to support that Brentwood downtown coalition
as it is the only group that exclusively promotes downtown. Prison has done a wonderful job,
it takes a lead, it takes a lot of work. Thank you very much.
And next speakers are Roberta. All of that Christian. All of it by Randy.
Good evening. Mayor Meyer. Vice Mayor Pearson. Council. This is my first time up here. I am Roberta.
Buyers. I am a local business owner and community, community advocates here in Brentwood.
I'm here tonight to speak in support of the integrity and work ethic of the executive director
Christian Mingus. In my experience working alongside the coalition, I am a member as well.
And my business is located on we are considered on a core downtown in the Liberty Link Center located on
Brentwood Boulevard. We're a teleguided this is located and my business is called curated and I just wanted
to give a personal testimony as opposed to just reading from my phone that Kristen picked up
with the outline downtown businesses where Amy left off, where including our small businesses into
what goes on with downtown as well. I know everyone's speaking about exclusively
downtown but she really reaches out like it's just I did not know that this is going on tonight but
I just called her text it Kristen the yesterday and she texted me right back and I asked can we
you know brainstorm on some you know events for the Liberty Link Center that's been I think it's been
in 1987 and with different businesses there of course and she texted me right back and said of course
you know she she said house tomorrow which you know which is really you know like a lot to speak on a
person who's a executive director of the whole downtown Brentwood coalition that she's willing to
have a meeting with the entire Liberty Link Center on ideas to bring you know events to that center.
So with that being said I just wanted to let you guys know on how passionate honest and
approachable she is and how she is so willing to work with multiple entities in the city when it
comes to the chamber and bringing the city of Brentwood chamber coalition and like the whole community
gather so I really love her and like her here and Brentwood and we would like to keep her thank you.
First time here. Good even members of the council my name is Christian I'm here tonight on behalf of
Leconica Pre reason we were we opened two years ago in the downtown area and since then I'm just here
for a full support for Kristen and the DBC the amount of efforts that they've done for our restaurant and
for the downtown area has been tremendous I can name out plenty of events like the bubbles and
broomsticks that created so much traction in our restaurant that I ran out of almost all my specialty
cocktails that day and I firmly was very surprised but with the help of the call with the help of the
DBC for all you all you council all you council members I like to tell you they do an amazing job
like Kristen has done so much to help the community in many ways for us but specifically helping
us with our events like the Capri mixer this last summer which was one of my first events
managing Leconica Pre and honestly went out with a bang it was one of the amazing events that we had
and I almost I almost ran out of vapor all that day but I just like to say
for the local events that we've helped with us it's been a tremendous honor and we hope that you
look at these statements not as something of just passing on we really truly believe that they have done
an immense men's job with us we are still planning events this year that will probably lead us
into next year even and that for us in the community is amazing it helps us tremendously and
gosh I plan for two minutes of speech but it got three it's great but mostly I like to
step on her the ability of Kristen the way that she communicate to others and communicate in
group setting with ongoing things that have to happen basically meetings have to happen
organizations I trust me planning some of these parties in events is no joke and the way that we've been
doing it for these last couple of years for this last year has been a tremendous experience with the coalition
with hand in hand anytime I need anything they're there especially Kristen 2477 any time the
restaurant is in need hey we need to come up with this event they always have the best ideas and I don't say
that with no experience I see that hand in hand thank you so much for letting me speak today and thank you
my name is Randy Moser and I'm the owner of all of Plason Oak Street I've had the privilege
to operate in my business in downtown Brentwood for the past six years now it's hard to believe it's
spent six years kind of crazy only in a small business is both a privilege and a challenge
we invest our savings our time and our hearts and door store fronts but none of us succeed alone
over the past six years I have seen firsthand how the strength of the downtown Brentwood is built through
collaboration shared vision and strong leadership and that is exactly what the downtown Brentwood coalition
and its executive director Kristen Mingus provide I've had the privilege of working closely with Kristen
and consistently witnessed her incredible dedication she's deeply invested highly responsive and genuinely
cares about the success of each business owner and the long-term health of our downtown
excuse me she goes far beyond what is required because she believes this she believes in this community
I personally witnessed the economic value the coalition brings to our city from coordinated events that
drive foot traffic to marketing initiatives that spotlight local businesses to advocacy that ensures
our voices are heard the coalition consistently turns ideas into real measurable impact I see it
when sidewalks are full when customers tell me they discovered my shop through a downtown event and when
new business fill when new businesses fill confident choosing Brentwood because of the supported
supportive ecosystem in place downtown Brentwood is not simply a collection of buildings it's a living
excuse me breathing economic engine and it gathering place for a community that's what happens
when you you know you go through Metaposs you cry at desktop I'm just saying here for the public to see
when we invest in the coalition and its strong leadership we are investing directly in local jobs
local families and the identity of our city this is so embarrassing I respect and it's kind of late
for me I'm just saying you guys I don't know how you do this I respectfully urge you to continue supporting
the downtown Brentwood coalition and Christmas role as executive director the return on this investment is
visible tangible and deeply meaningful to those of us who call downtown home thank you for your time
and for your continued commitment to our community and thanks for letting me cry apparently so anyway
the next speakers are Genevieve followed by Vicki followed by Savino
hi I'm just a business center so I don't really have anything fancy but um I've owned
words more for 19 years and I've been in different locations but this location downtown is the
bus and then the DBC we were I started out with the DBC before the executive director and I noticed as
soon as Amy came in it just grew it just boomed the whole all the different events everything and
fatrafic and also sales so it made a huge difference and then when Amy left and then Kristen came in
it just continues to grow and customers always comment about how much fun they have and they keep coming
back downtown and checking out all the different stores so it makes it a huge difference
I'm a choir, too. So I specifically wrote something down that would help me not make me cry. And I also have a really bad cough. So hopefully, I don't have a coughing bed. My name is Vicky Little and I own sip and scoop. Small business located in downtown Brutwood. I'm here tonight to voice my strong support for the downtown Brutwood coalition, and specifically for the executive director position.
I asked Chuck KBT, why it's important to have a strong downtown area.
A vibrant downtown is the heart of a city. It drives local economic growth by supporting small businesses, creating jobs and attracting visitors, while also serving as a central gathering place at Strinkthin's Community Connection.
A lively, walkable downtown filled with local shops, dining arts and events, enhances quality of life, builds civic pride, and creates a positive image that draws families, entrepreneurs and investment.
When downtown thrives, the entire city benefits. As a business owner, entrepreneur, and a long time member of this community.
I can say without hesitation, that the downtown Brutwood coalition has been one of the most impactful and positive forces in our business district.
And much of that is because of the leadership of its executive directors, the person with Amy to Lee, and now with Christian Christian doesn't just manage a program.
She builds a community since becoming involved with a coalition. I have personally experienced increased visibility, strong relationships with other business owners, and more meaningful connections with the city and our residents.
Through events, promotions, communication and hands-on support, Christian has all created downtown that feels alive, welcoming, and collaborative.
When I opened my business, when I opened and grew my business, there were moments that were incredibly challenging, many, many moments still.
But having the downtown Brutwood coalition and Christian leadership meant I wasn't navigating these challenges alone. She constantly advocates for small businesses, listens to our concerns, and actively works to bring solutions opportunities and traffic into our downtown.
The ripple effect of this work goes far beyond our individual shops. It impacts local jobs, family-owned businesses, community events, and the overall identity of Brutwood.
Downtown is no longer just a place to pass through. It's a place people come together, support, local, and feel connected.
That does not happen by accident. It happens through intentional leadership, which Christian and the board provides every day.
Approving and supporting this MOU ensures that the downtown Brutwood coalition, I'm done. Thank you for having me.
Good evening, Madam Mayor, Madam Vice Mayor, City Council, and City Officials. It was great seeing some of you on Saturday.
I hope you guys enjoyed your crap and some of your steak. But most importantly, thank you for your continued support of the DBC.
My name is Sivino Wilcova, and I am the co-owner of the lounge on Oak. We can all agree during the week that downtown Brutwood can be a little dim traffic is light.
So, that's the small business owners. We have to come up with promotions and ideas to help drive that foot traffic.
For example, you know, as members does, you know, Martinie Mondays. We do talk about Tuesdays, BCBC kills it with their trivia Tuesdays, and so on and so forth.
But these devotions come to cost with very low margin, low margin. But we need to use a small business as we operate without deep corporate dollars.
This funding not only supports small businesses, but it creates jobs, generates tax revenues, by city, well-produced events.
I thought that it gave leadership the impact is limited. Anchors and brings that.
An executive director ensures events are professionally managed. Businesses you will economic benefit and the city sees of our turn on its investment.
The ball brings accountability and consistency and growth, not just programming.
Without these events, it would be challenging for us to maintain the employees we have, to continue to be open seven days a week and to operate the hours that we promote.
Funding in the position is not a cost. It's an investment in local jobs, local businesses, and the strong tax base for the city.
I urge the council to support this funding and help ensure these events continue to benefit our entire community. Thank you.
The next speakers are Oksana, followed by Mike, followed by Greg.
So I'm not part of the DBC and I'm not a business owner in downtown, but I am a mom with four children and your events draw us out all the time.
We did a scavenger hunt at one of the events and that's when I met you and you had us.
I think it might have been the juniors event, but you had us go to different businesses and re-facts from those businesses and that's when I discovered boondoggies I never knew that was around the corner.
There's a barbershop. I think it's near the Emporium where I took my three boys to get their haircuts and so it really works and it's very engaging for us.
We moved to frontwood because of the family family environment and I did do two and a half hours to foster city each way just to be able to own in this community.
Thank God our mortgage is now lower than our rent and a word and so love Brentwood for all of these family family events so just wanted to say thank you we support you we love you.
Okay I'm a Mike Clemen I'm a 23 year Brentwood resident. I don't want to take it with too much time but my first message I do want and this is off topic Tracy if you're still listening I don't know who you are but that type of energy I can say we need you have to stay on topic.
I can gamble but yes I want to be your friend anyway the DBC I am really excited that we're in a completely different environment with the DBC now and.
How much everyone loves the DBC I do want to go back and revisit back around 2020 2021 we're in COVID and we're struggling that this was not a slam dunk the DBC and for our city to fund it it was actually if I recall pretty controversial.
And I want to thank city staff and council member Mendoza and and Mayor Myers specifically because you were on council at the time and you and the other three members took a leap of faith and fully funded the DBC and.
Look what we have now we came out of COVID these businesses are flourishing prison you mentioned like what I love about the DBC you're exactly right it's not all about revenue and making money and all that that's the one of the reasons and messages that I like about the DBC and indirectly with the DBC has done.
We've made Brentwood's downtown the crown jewel of East County there's not a storefront that's available to rent right it is prime real estate the property values of all these businesses the value of businesses in the DBC have gone through the roof it is so thrilling to me that.
The DBC is here and under your leadership and all of the business owners down here we've worked at my wife and I and friends are down here on Sunday night and we went to the lounge we went to that for we walked around we couldn't even get a table and we're like all this sucks.
But then we would say to ourselves this is awesome this is what we want we want it to be packed so we had to high tail it to eight acres.
Anyway, I want to say thank you very much Kristen DBC immediately before you.
I'm really thrilled let's extend the some MOU give them all the money give them all the bags and let's keep it going.
Good evening mayor and city council and staff and DBC people for those of you don't know my name is Greg Robinson I am the owner of the Broadway press and I've had the pleasure of working on the corner of.
First in Oak Street for the last 26 years and I can say that I can also support the DBC as I was one of the founding members about 20 some years ago.
I think it's a great organization I think the people understand that they do that the DBC does so much for downtown I have to look at my friend PJ who's out there in the rain with his beautiful.
Woman putting up flags right I didn't know if it's your wife or girlfriend see I'm saying partner trying to be politically correct.
In blue it right.
But anyway the moral of the story is is that that what the DBC does for the downtown area is amazing.
They're out there all the time they have answered great some of you know the DBC was in the Brentwood press building for a period of time until they had the opportunity to get the building downtown.
So I think it's great and I think that we need to keep looking at this is an extension of what the city can do for the community right.
So I think that it's a good program I think that we should continue making it happen and I just want to thank the DBC and all the crew for all that you guys do for downtown around the press building that's it.
Thank you.
I have no additional speaker cards in person but I do have a few hands raised in zoom.
Or speaker in zoom is not.
Matt go ahead.
Hi can you hear me okay.
Yes we can.
Okay great.
We'll meet a good evening Mayor Meyer and fellow council members.
I had a working wonders nonprofit that serves adults with development on related disabilities.
We have a day program in Brentwood very proud of.
It's just want to share a little bit more I send a letter today but I wanted to say.
I have nothing but good things to say about Chris and Mingus and the downtown Brentwood coalition.
It's great relationship with working wonders.
Kristen has been a gracious leader in supporting us at every turn.
The DBC board and everybody in the organization has been incredible and very welcoming to us.
Kristen will even join us regularly in our weekly outdoor and indoor work project with the DBC out in the elements and things she rolls up her sleeves.
It's called downtown shine it's a true testament to her character she's out there with us getting the job done making downtown sparkle by cleaning up.
We have a growing relationship with the DBC a partnership that we believe reflects well on the community.
We're welcoming everyone everyone can contribute to the community and play a role and we take great pride in our relationship with the DBC.
We have small work crews, it serves several generous businesses that are DBC members.
So they treat us very well and we work very hard to try to measure up to, you know, paying our clients minimum wage.
Last week we worked on the support staff for the highly successful DBC crowd feed at the Brentwood community center.
We've also worked at the October fast bags and brews and other DBC events.
We believe in opening doors in the community for people who are often left behind and clearly Kristen and the DBC share and that believe our don't clients cherish their relationship with the DBC.
Thank you Kristen for all that you do.
That's it.
The next speaker is Sanziana.
Sanziana go ahead.
I'm good evening thank you for highlighting downtown Brentwood coalition.
This is such an amazing organization and a special shout out to Kristen and her team.
Kristen's the best. It's a very passionate and energetic leader.
Please support the downtown Brentwood coalition and not only fund at the current level, but please increase the funding for this amazing organization and it's a director.
I actually have an idea how to allocate some additional funds and defend the useless basketball, midnight basketball league.
That's $25,000 that we spent on something that has no return on Brentwood community.
We haven't heard anything on this organization giving back to our community.
I am on topic, this is I'm just suggesting additional funding for a downturn to the coalition.
Lynn is an amazing leader also supporting Kristen and definitely a big shout out to all the downtown businesses that support and contribute to our amazing community to make it better day in and day out.
I want to say shame on the council members, but Nisha Fay and Tony who voted for the awful fire station and supporting the tattoo parlor coming in.
I was muted for 20 seconds, so I recall in my time. So all these three council members supported businesses that do not really contribute to bottom line of the downtown businesses.
And definitely a shout out to curated, I had the opportunity to walk in their amazing business.
And I want to end by recognizing council member Mendoza and Mayor Meyer for all their support to our downtown Brentwood businesses and downtown Brentwood coalition.
So please consider funding and increasing funding for this amazing nonprofit that really contributes and brings light to our amazing community in Brentwood, thank you.
speaker, is Dorina.
Go ahead.
I can hear me. Yes, I thank you. I'm good evening. Mayor Meyer.
Nice mayor and city council. My name is Dorina and I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Kristen and the downtown Brentwood coalition.
Kristen has gone above and beyond in her support of Brentwood.
As a co-founder of a local nonprofit, has it gone for I have personally seen her build strong partnerships and bring community together and support all members of our community and all of our neighbors.
It's always so kind, responsive and incredibly easy to work with. She consistently shows tremendous heart dedication and integrity with great leadership.
I'm here tonight to ask the council to continue to support this position of the executive executive director and also to take to thank you Kristen for all your hard work in your commitment. Thank you, we truly appreciate you.
The next speaker is Matt. Matt go ahead.
Good evening everyone. My name is Matt Hagar. I'm a downtown building owner, business owner and also the developer of future projects that grow at Brentwood.
Some of you have possibly heard of and I just wanted to chime in on the importance of the DBC to me and Kristen's work.
Early on in my project, I brought this to Amy Tilly and I spoke with her. She was incredibly enthusiastic and supportive and really give me a lot of confidence to move forward with the project.
And now that she is left and I've continued to work with Kristen and she's been equally supportive and enthusiastic and I speak with her a lot. She helps me in a number of ways gives me a lot of good information and.
She's just been a fantastic resource and I've lived in this community my entire life went to Liberty and you know been here for a long time and I've seen this downtown area grow and thrive and.
For those of us that have been around a long time and Brentwood, it wasn't always that way and a huge huge part of.
My desired move forward with this project is the DBC and Kristen's work and just the overall community support and the events that now happened downtown and as many many business owners have.
I'm not satisfied to that it's been a huge support the vibrancy of the life, you know, the downtown area is the core of any community and you know, would definitely want to see Kristen continue her work and she's going to fantastic job.
So it's one of throw my support behind her and her position.
I think that this role is incredibly important last year after shortly meeting her.
And I just want to think.
Thank Kristen so much. I think that this role is incredibly important last year after shortly meeting her.
You know, we connected about a fundraiser that we were doing.
So I'm going to present a couple to for back to school supplies for our farm worker little ones.
And immediately right away, she was so kind, so thoughtful, just really thinking through what we could do to make the events successful, you know, partnering with the lounge and Savino.
Awesome and I'm excited to be working with her again, so that way we can continue raising funds for for our work, but to give back to community and I think that this role is incredibly important and, you know, don't have to go and say what everybody else has already said, but just really thankful for her work and and the gift of this role.
So thank you.
I have no additional speaker cards or hands raised in.
Thank you Amanda comments from council members council member windows.
Yeah, um, you know, we've lived in Brentwood for a while, like my husband said, and when we first moved out here, we had the cornpest, right, everyone loved the event.
Um, Saturday night, my girlfriend came with me that doesn't live in the area, and we've just talking about how we used to bring our kids downtown.
And I'm like, well, you're sitting where it used to happen, right, inside the community center.
And it's just, um, I appreciate you so much because there was a time when we didn't have events for our families and our kids.
It really slowed down.
And we did have some open storefronts downtown and I think just the investment that you all have made with your time.
And, um, your dedication to the downtown has just really turned our city around and I appreciate you as a resident.
I don't think it's a secret that the first time you came, I was a little bit like, I don't know.
I'm not sure about this, like, is it, are we going to really have a return investment because, you know, the finance goes, always think about the return investment.
And I do think we have a great return investment.
You said something that kind of hurt a little bit, not for me, but for you, you said, I'm just a business owner.
You're not just a business owner, like you really are a part of Brentwood, like a lifeline to Brentwood.
So I appreciate you as a resident because we are nothing without our businesses and the people who live and breathe wanting to make Brentwood better.
So don't ever say you're just a business owner because you're so much more than that.
When I look at the financials, I know people are like, oh, the money, the money, the money.
It's about, you know, park and wreck and all of the events we give them.
We don't have the bandwidth to run all of the events that you run.
Not only that, but we don't even have the financials to run what you run on the money that you get.
When I think about fully loaded headcount, that is your pay, that is your benefits, that's your vacation pay.
That is your pension obligation that we pay for.
Those are the things that bankrupt cities and we don't have to do that because you do it all for us.
And 12 events is a lot and I don't think that people realize it.
I should have asked the question before of staff, like how much is it cost to run one event.
I'm sure it's, I mean, you couldn't probably run one event for what you do or maybe two events for what the MOU provides.
But I appreciate you seeing you all out there, even with when you guys are setting up in the morning and I come by for an event and you have all the high schoolers there.
It's really a community.
It's not just the events, but it's the way you bring community together.
So I appreciate you.
Once everyone's done making comments, I'm ready to make a motion on this.
So I'd love to make a motion on this item.
And yeah, so I'm calling now one.
Other comments?
Yes.
First off, I want to thank all of you, DBC for everything that you do for our community.
The communication, the collaboration, the diversity of everything that you bring to our community is amazing.
I can't say enough, like just seeing all the events, the restaurants, the shops, everything that's open up you're constantly striving for innovation.
And that's something as a resident here, I'm beyond grateful and thankful for.
And Kristen, everything that you do for our community, I'm beyond grateful to you for.
And we're constantly saying, like, oh my gosh, Amy did this, Amy did this, Amy created her own legacy, but growl you're creating your own legacy.
You are amazing.
So be proud of everything that you're doing and we're beyond appreciative and honored to have you here with us. Thank you.
That may have comes out of my nervous.
You can go.
Well, it was, if you were raised, I'll, I'll yield and wait.
Okay.
The DBC was probably one of the first groups that jumped on board with Tony Orlomans when I first got on to Council.
And yes, I had to give it to Amy because Amy was the person that reached out.
But it's all of you as a whole that started bringing me into those events and getting me to understand how strong our downtown actually is.
It's my district.
And I wasn't even as clear until the DBC started with including me and part of those events bringing us along and then watching the downtown change.
Watching the difference of when there was a cigar lounge at Crown and Crow and that was about hit 20 years ago to now on a Friday or Saturday night, you can't find parking.
You can't, I walk from my house to the downtown and that's about a mile away just because I can't find parking out there.
So you guys are doing an amazing thing with the city of Brentwood.
And we, we truly appreciate that and it does not go unnoticed and Chris and you you probably spent a week trying to get a hold of me because I didn't recognize your number on my phone and I wouldn't answer it and then finally you texted me and I realized who it was.
But the tenacious the, the won't give up I'm just going to keep pushing for what I have to do because that's what I'm here for.
So thank you guys it's amazing.
Thank you.
All right, so it's my turn. One I have to say, is that okay, Mayor.
Am I absolutely thank you.
First of all, I like to say, Chris, and you have some big shoes to feel and you've done an amazing job.
I want to just say, let's be honest, if they weren't for the DBC, we wouldn't have had a KTVU's trip in downtown Brentwood.
I know that there are several awards and recognitions that we've received for our main street and I'm always honored when I drive people in downtown Brentwood to talk about all the accolades and highlights.
I know that there have been questions about the house, Chris, and there was no explanation needed for that house.
I appreciate that we've always talked about as a council.
We need a visitor center and I couldn't think of a better organization than the DBC to be in that house and be our visitor center.
I know there's been questions of fairness to other organizations and I just have to say, you're before us right now and so it is our job as a council to listen to your needs to listen to our residents and the business owners and.
I know there's been a lot of questions about how we can do that.
I know there's been a lot of questions about how many of you all stood up together as community and spoke up.
I know that that, you know, we consider fairness and equity, but I think that the evidence proves.
How fair are our reaches and that there is ways that we can go even further.
One of the things that I do want to mention is I know that we looked at there was given to us was the amount of money and hopefully I know you want to make a motion, but I'd like to discuss some of the stuff.
Before you make the motion.
Another we were given and it looks like we round about I did have a question to carry.
Or actually I'm sorry I'm used to carry sitting in that seat.
Christine.
If the amount that we got from you all for that was spent in 20.
24 through 25 that that also include the amount that we're paying.
For that the staff or was this just for grants and.
Contributions should have been 190 something or was that inclusive of that was it like 75,000.
I can take that one by somebody.
So I prepared that information and we kind of reviewed it all together, but yeah it includes the direct contribution.
So that's the MOU any economic development grants and fee waivers.
Okay, because I would just ask if we can up front and be give a full inclusive number.
That would include the economic development grants and some wiggle room for other activities.
So instead of the I know last year was 124 they didn't go up much between 23 and 25.
So I would ask that we renew the MOU and if we can I'll read it when you make your motion.
Could you do an all inclusive amount versus here's.
On it, toward his way, from a PNL perspective, you're not giving them cash, you're just giving them a waiver.
Thank you.
Uh-huh.
I know, I get what you're saying.
I mean, you do what I'm saying, like, I just so we have a better draft.
But because it's different accounting buckets, we got to keep it clean.
Yeah, and then can I ask them, them actual, how much without her tell it on her business is the amount that we give is sufficient to maintain.
The level of service prison is that everything.
Great.
Do you want prison to come back down here?
Yes, please.
Or, or the board president, if that's an easier question for her.
Oh, I'm sorry.
I didn't think about that.
Is it making you sweaty?
So, truthfully, prison is underpaid.
Um, compared to other downtown districts.
And we, we approached her with $80,000, because that's what we had.
And we would love to be able to give her more and give her more benefits.
And, um, actually, also create more staff because it's getting to the point where she needs some part-time help.
So, yeah.
There's only, she's on the phone or visiting with people or meeting with people all day long.
And, in addition to doing the events and, um, you know, networking and trying to get sponsorships.
I mean, it's really a job for a committee of two or three people.
And she's doing it all right now.
We got from the board.
Yeah, thank you for for that.
I appreciate that.
I thought, I know at one time you all had some interns possibly in there.
I know that you, you'd probably need more of a full-time staff versus just an intern.
Yes, we, in terms are great for handling some of the smaller tasks, but really with the amount of events that we're doing now.
And the amount of, um, advocacy we're doing for the businesses and working with the city on different projects.
It's just, there's a lot of buckets to fill.
Yeah, she's doing them all right now.
Yeah, I think I agree with Councilmember Mendosa on that that we thank you for that, Lynn.
I appreciate it.
The, the cost relative to what our staff would actually spend to throw events.
And we've already heard from our staff several times park erect about bandwidth as we, you know,
and continue to keep them momentum that has been set.
Councilmember Mendosa, when you make your motion, I'd love to second it.
Yeah, I have a question real quick.
So if we're talking about increasing the amounts, we know we don't want to come from the general fund.
Is this something?
When we do economic developments, can we put in a line item for extra funds just to support the DBC and their activities?
Or do they need to be specific for an event for the way the ballot measure was written?
We always do it for events, but could it be like we do 80,000, I think it's 80 80,000 here and then when economic development grants come,
they still ask for the same step they ask, but can we have an extra bucket.
So that it's not coming out of the general fund.
So I would appreciate just maybe a minute to look that up in the, in the municipal code to make sure that we don't go the wrong direction.
My initial assumption would be yes, you can do that.
But let me just make sure that you don't approve something and then we have to come back and correct the later.
We talked in the window doesn't there it's a time when you we tried to look at the art fund.
Or I don't know if we can use the art fund because when Katie did the research on that, but maybe okay, how about.
You heard, has this.
Hi, Carol.
I just want to remind the council what this item scheduled.
It is one ever report a date and the other is to give staff direction and the direction would be to come back with an MOU.
So any action direction tonight would give us the.
But I was come back to the council with an update MOU and we can identify an outline sort of the scope that you would want.
Okay, how does the council feel about doing 90 K for the MOU are the general fund and then when the grant time comes, we can discuss.
More of how flexible that ballot measure was when it comes to our spend.
It seems to me and just jumping in the middle when we initially did the MOU year and a half ago.
They had come forward and had already agreed on the MOU with a number, but we didn't like the number so we raised it.
So why don't we just give staff the opportunity to come up with a number with the DBC and if we don't like it, we can change it as opposed to putting limits up on it here.
Does it have to come back again if we change it again.
Or it has to come back again for our final.
We need it at third time. That's what I don't want to do at third. Can we, how do you guys feel about 90 K.
I'm okay with that.
I am too, but I do want to make comments.
We're not ready.
Yeah.
Okay, I'm very patient.
I want to say it's one of the harder things about being mayor is that I traditionally the mayor speaks last.
So by the time I get to speak all the great stuff has been said so.
I would like to thank my fellow council members for saying some wonderful things, but I do have some things to add.
I am kind of a newbie to Brentwood my family and I moved to your 16 years ago, only so yes, newbie.
But I at the time remember thinking how exciting it was to live an area that had a downtown that every city has one.
And we all have to consider ourselves lucky to have a downtown for so many reasons.
One of them is the fact that it is such a gathering place.
It is such a place where we all come together.
It's a destination. It brings people in from other cities.
It drives economic development and it drives us culturally coming together through events.
I just really enjoyed the way it's blossomed over the years.
I was initially when I heard about it without a doubt excited about it about building the the position.
Taking part in Main Street America.
All of those things very excited about it.
And Amy did do a fantastic job and I think she was what was needed at that time and Kristen is what what is needed now.
And she's picked up exactly where Amy left off and and built this into something even more beautiful.
So I have to thank Amy for what she did to build a foundation that Kristen is now taking and running with.
And that's an incredible thing because I do feel very, very grateful that we have you that we have your board.
I'm going to put board of directors before and so and I'm a executive director for nonprofit myself during the day.
So I get some of what you're feeling.
I get what what you're putting into this.
Your board is amazing.
The board of directors and I don't think we've said enough about them.
They've given their heart and soul to this to make our downtown.
As it was said, the heart of the community and done a fantastic job with that.
And we see the community sees the upper you put in.
And we see the hours that you put in we see the investment you make personally professionally and it really has built something amazing so thank you board members to.
The idea of all of the developments that have happened since so the increased in social media engagement is huge.
The expanded focus on agracherism, which I personally absolutely adore.
I love seeing that that kind of component bring being brought into the events and the partnerships.
I love I love that you've been involved with helping downtown to become ADA compliant.
That is really important something that we've tried to focus on on our aging and disabilities committee too.
But you've been able to really take that and run with it as the person who leads downtown.
In an addition working with working wonders for example.
So I think the idea of the inclusivity increasing as well.
It all is all just really means a lot it just we're in the right direction.
We're moving forward the empowerment of use.
All of the things I'm so excited about so I again coming in last head to think of some things that hadn't been said yet so.
But the idea of the growth from the beginning from the time I've moved here.
Even through COVID when so many businesses were struggling and downtown struggled to but we made it through.
And we've become even stronger and we are a destination and when you go to a event downtown you're seeing people from all over the Bay Area and sometimes even beyond that.
And so the idea of kind of making that partnership with the actors and peace and bringing the people after fruit picking for example.
I I love hearing what you're saying and I love that vision because I think it's exactly who we are and how we maintain.
What Brent what has made so many people while still recognizing the beauty of the cultural growth and the beautiful legacy of the farming so.
Thank you for all of that and with that I think we're ready for a motion.
My apologies just wanted to get the information out there regarding the municipal code.
And so it does indicate on a project by project basis that's how these funds are to be applied for and then it's up to the discretion of the city council.
So the ordinance does specify a project by project basis although it also states you know it's for the purpose of general economic development purposes but on a project by project basis.
Thank you for that carry so.
How do you feel about what we talked about.
And then when we get the grants we'll go through the grants and then we'll see what else if possible we can do.
Vice Mayor here.
How's that feel.
I have an objection to it in addition to you would be renewing the MOU all the way through 2027 right or 2028.
Yeah, 27.
So yeah, so I'll read the motion.
As detailed in the staff report, I moved to direct staff to develop and return to council with a new MOU.
To continue the partnership at 90,000 with the DBC for the fiscal years 2026 through 27 and 2027 through 28.
Our second that motion.
Can we get a roll call please.
I hope you to.
Excuse me.
Councilmember Mendoza.
Okay.
For fiscal year.
No.
Yeah, 90 down for fiscal year.
And so a second.
Yes.
Thanks.
Councilmember Muloney.
Yes.
Vice Mayor Pearson.
Yes.
And I'm on on a room.
Councilmember Mendoza.
Yes.
Councilmember Orlemins.
Yes.
Mayor Mayor.
Yes.
Gradulations that most in passion passes.
Thank you all for coming out.
I really appreciate it.
Now we're going to move backwards to open public hearings with item G1.
Part of the lean director of parks and recreation will present the next item regarding the landscape and lighting assessment district number.
23-1 orchard grow before we start as anyone need short break.
We're good.
Okay.
Mayor.
I do.
I'm disabled.
I've been assaulted several times.
And I need a break.
Okay.
Thank you.
Just about three minutes.
Just for five minutes.
Okay.
Thank you.
We can get started again as soon as everyone takes a picture of the public. We can get started again as soon as everyone takes a picture of the public.
We can get started again as soon as everyone takes a seat and is ready to go.
Back into item G1. Good evening, Honorable Mayor. City council members. My name is Harith Elim, Director of Parks and Recreation.
In accordance with the Landscaping and Lighting Act of 1972 and Proposition 2A team, this item represents the final step in the annexation of territory to landscape and lighting assessment district number 23 to add one, orchard grove as annexation number one.
Upon annexation, the city will be authorized to levy annual assessments of 30 single family residential properties and four do at units within the orchard grove north development located north of Gracie Lane between Adams Lane and Lone Oak Road.
On May 27, 2025, the city council adopted resolution, 2025-55, initiating the annexation of territory to the district and preliminary approving the engineers report.
The proposed maximum assessment rate of $1,698 and 71 cents per single family parcel and the estimated maximum annual revenue that can be generated is $56,050.
This figures, these figures are fiscal year 25, 26 dollars. The maximum assessment rate will be increased each subsequent fiscal year by the annual change in the consumer price index.
The city of Brentwood inducted a public hearing on June 10, 2025 to consider the proposed annexation of the orchard grove development in the districts as in the district as annexation number one at that time the annexation could not be approved because the developer had not yet established ownership of the property associated with the orchard grove north development.
The public hearing was continued into a date uncertain when October 30, 2025 the developer established ownership of the annexation area and the public hearing was rescheduled for this evening January 27, 2026.
The annexation of territory to the existing district requires property owner approval and notice in ballot was mail to the affected property owner as required by proposition to 18.
The ballot can be opened and tabulated by the city clerk after the close of the public imp portion of the public hearing this evening.
If the property owner's ballot is favorable, city staff recommends council adopt the attached resolution which would give the approval of the final engineer's report and confirm the annexation of the orchard grove north development and to landscaping and lighting assessment district number 23 dash one orchard grove.
staff and virtually on zoom the city consultant Francesco and associates are available for any questions you might have thank you.
Thank you hear my big question is why is my face up there instead of a riffs.
It's unsettling he's speaking why my on.
Do we have any questions for staff.
No questions okay moving into public comments and the public hearing.
up as time the public is permitted to address the city council on the agenda item if you're participating be as soon as your hand to speak if you're in person please file a speaker card.
Your microphone will be muted if you speak on items that do not pertain to the agenda item or after the timer has expired.
We receive zero written public comments in advance of this item.
I do not have any written or I like actually I do have.
Sorry we got I'll shuffle that so I do have one speaker card in person Melissa.
Then I have no speaker cards in person.
Or hands raised in zoom.
Thank you moving into any discussion.
Okay.
The election in this matters here by called are there any additional ballots to be submitted.
And we need a motion to close the public hearing.
So moved.
Second.
Can roll call.
Council member Meloni.
Yes.
Vice Mayor Pearson.
Yes.
And I'm alone.
Council member Mendosa.
Yes.
Council member Orlamans.
Yes.
Mayor Meyer.
Yes.
Thank you.
Do I need to repeat that question by the way.
For the discussion on the item.
If there is any discussion, you may have that now.
Okay.
And there doesn't appear to be.
And then I mean that you can take a motion on the next portion, which would be you confirm.
If there is a majority.
I don't believe that we got an answer to the additional ballots submitted.
I have no additional ballot.
I just have the one.
Yes.
Thank you.
All right.
You have no additional ballot.
I can make a motion.
As detailed in the staff report.
I moved to adopt a resolution ordering the annexation of territory.
L.O.A.D. number 23-1.
Orchard Grove as annexation number one and taking all implementing actions.
There's one you action just prior to that.
I have to be directed to open a ballot.
There.
I moved to confirm there's no majority protest of the formation based on the tabulation of the return ballots.
Weighted by assessment amount.
Second.
Council member Maloney.
Yes.
Vice Mayor Pearson.
Yes.
And I'm alone.
Council member Mendoza.
Yes.
Council member Orlements.
Yes.
Mayor Meyer.
Yes.
The motion passes.
And I would ask that the city clerk tabulate the ballots and read the results.
The ballot is a unanimous.
Yes.
Who is affirmative?
Thank you.
And do we have a motion?
There's no other discussion, right?
I will make a motion.
Okay.
As detailed in the staff report.
I moved to adopt a resolution ordering the annexation of territory.
L.O.A.D. number 23-1.
Orchard Grove as annexation number one.
And taking the help of many actions.
Be a second.
Second.
Will call please.
Council member Maloney.
Yes.
Vice Mayor Pearson.
Yes.
Council member Mendoza.
Yes.
Council member Orlements.
Yes.
Mayor Meyer.
Yes.
The item passes.
Thank you.
Moving into H1.
Alexis Morris.
Director of Community Development.
We'll present the next item regarding oil and gas, leasing and development.
Good evening.
Honorable Mayor.
Chair, vice mayor, and committee council. Just one moment while we get the presentation on the screen. Thank you.
So, this informational item was requested by Council Member Mendoza and Mayor Meyer. They requested a discussion of a potential comment later on the recently released Bureau of Land Management Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement or SES.
A little background on the BLM, SES, sorry for all the acronyms.
The SES was prepared under the National Environmental Protection Act, which is a federal environmental law similar to our sequel law and an SES is similar to an environmental impact report prepared under sequel.
This SES is narrowly focused on the Bureau of Land Management, oil and gas leasing and development in San Benito and Monterey counties.
There are no sites in Contra Costa County analyzed in the SES.
The SES is supplemental to a 2019 EIS, which was made for the larger North Coast region of BLM, which does include Contra Costa County.
This focused SES was prepared due to a lawsuit settlement.
So the Bureau of Land Management is currently accepting public comments on their SES. The public comment period ends March 6, 2026.
The BLM is also hosting a virtual public meeting to receive oral comments, and that is being held on January 29, just in a couple days.
If anyone would like to attend that session, they must be registered to attend. They can't just log on and join a Zoom. They have to be registered.
And links to register for that meeting and to submit a written comment if the public is interested are provided in tonight's staff report.
So tonight we are seeking Council's direction regarding whether to submit a comment letter on the SES.
And if so, requesting that Council provide direction on the comments that should be included in that letter.
And if we receive that direction, a letter would be prepared and submitted by the March 6 deadline.
Alternatively, Council could direct staff to prepare a general comment letter, opposing oil and gas drilling near the city's borders.
That would also be prepared and submitted by the March 6 deadline.
That concludes the report.
And I'd be happy to answer any questions that you have.
Thank you, Alexis. Do you have questions?
Yeah, I have a question.
I'm looking at the map on page 73 of the agenda.
And there seems to be a little red box near Brentwood.
Did you see that?
Yeah, so the map.
And it I think it's identified as lands open for leasing.
Right, so if I could let me call that up and then share my screen one more time if that's okay.
Is that so scary when you see lands open for leasing in it like near you.
So, I'm sorry. Why won't it open?
Okay.
Okay, could you share my screen now?
This is the figure you're referring.
Yeah, yeah. So my understanding is the entire area outlined in that darker gray line is that North Coast office territory.
Okay.
And so the 2019 EIS was prepared analyzing potential leasing and drilling activity in this entire area.
The supplemental EIS, which is the one that was just released,
was is only dealing with areas in San Benito and Monterey County.
So again, it's building off of and supplementing a previous document that dealt with a much larger project area in many more communities.
Do we know why they would have called out controversy?
And I guess, I mean, it might be discussion, but do we know why they called out controversy?
And because the notice when I went into see the notice, the documents said they weren't available until Monday.
So I just saw them with Monday.
Do we know why they called out controversy if controversy isn't of interest?
I believe, I don't know why, but I believe it's because the North Coast field office encompasses contra Costa County.
It encompasses all of those counties and so they're naming what the contra what the North Coast field office has jurisdiction over.
But if you look at the actual SES and I have to admit, I haven't read all 100 pages because I just got the assignment, but on page 16 of the SES, let me see if I can.
This is my screen still being shared. Sorry, and if this is making anyone see sick.
Yeah, we could stop sharing for one moment and so people don't have to suffer through.
Okay, if you can you share now, sorry.
So this is the executive summary, the introduction of the SES that we're discussing says the alternatives considered in this SES includes implementation of two of 14 gas leases for these holster one and holster two, which are the locations in San Benino and Monterey County.
Okay, so we don't think there's any risk even though there's a little red dot.
Right, well, that might be subject to previous 2019 activities, there may be leases in all of that that take place, but that's not what's being analyzed specifically in this SES.
So there are at least hold areas identified in that red square that we just showed.
So in 2019, they analyze activities for all those areas showed and red and blue.
It's just this particular document is not dealing with those areas in contrast to county if that makes sense.
So there may still be considering leases or drilling activity in that red area, but under a different action a different.
That's the, well, final, yes, yes from the KLM.
So I guess sorry more questions, so my question is since there's a red dot and they might be considering it.
Is it worth sending in comment.
And you know, I take it back to what happened here on loan treaty, right, like it's not in our city, but it was a risk of maybe something happening near us and we and as a city was sent in the letter.
So I don't know.
Well, I think there's different mechanisms, right, so a comment letter on the SES can be drafted and sent by council.
The content of that document just doesn't happen to deal with contra Costa County.
Okay, the council could send a comment letter to the BLM.
Largely about their oil and gasoline activities and contra Costa County and how the council particularly feels about that.
It just isn't necessarily triggered or has to happen by March six.
Okay.
If it's not a comment on this actual document.
Okay.
Thank you.
So continue to continue to continue the questions on that.
If we were to send a letter.
A comment and say that it was a general comment about our opposition to oil and gas near the borders of Brentwood near homes near whatever according to what the governor's latest distance and recommendations are.
That could still be related to it though, but that could still be submitted to this as a comment and even though it's not directly involved.
It's still because contra Costa has been mentioned there is some relation.
It certainly could.
I might recommend to have most effects.
You would probably send it to different agents different departments within the agency, so not just as a comment on the SES because.
I'm a process a process is similar to sequence. So when you get a comment on an EIR and it doesn't actually have to do with the content in the AR.
Oh, you have to say is noted.
Got it. Okay.
You know, so you can still certainly do that to register the council's opinion through the SES process the comment process by March six.
You can also send letters to the agency the same letter.
To different factions of the agency, so it's not just noted and filed through the SES and it doesn't get to other folks and agencies that make so it's an end kind of situation.
So could staff then recommend these other departments or whatever that you're talking about.
I would have to look into that I'm by no means an expert on the Bureau of Land Management in how they're organized.
We can certainly look into that and see what the regional representative who the regional representative because remember there's this is a North Coast office, so they're sure there's leadership for that office.
I'm just not an expert in the BLM, so I'd have to look into that.
Okay. Thank you.
Mayor, if I might think the council may also want to send the letter to your federal representatives as part of that process to.
I do want to make one point of clarification.
When the director started her presentation, she referenced that this item was from the mayor and council member.
So this item was actually on the agenda by the city manager's office after having a conversation because there are two ways to get things on the agenda.
One is the process that requires us to do future agenda item.
Then come back and put the item on for discussion and by that time, I feel it might not be enough time to have this discussion and get direction.
So I please the item on the agenda gave the assignment to the director.
I just want to correct that correct that record.
Thank you. Thank you for moving it forward.
Quickly.
Other questions or should we move into public comment?
At this time, the public is permitted to address the city council on the agenda item.
If you're participating via Zoom please raise your hand to speak.
If you're in person, please file a speaker card.
Your microphone will be muted if you speak on items that do not pertain to the agenda item or after the timer has expired.
We receive your written public comments and advance of tonight's item.
I do have one.
To speaker cards for in person Melissa.
Just to clarify to you, there is new leasing in that area and there is another line aside from that dot.
I was looking at the map earlier.
Right on the outskirts of Brentwood.
Anyway, it is ask you to write another letter nights.
I am speaking to ask council to submit a letter of opposition during the draft supplemental environmental impact statement comment period.
While the BLMs draft document concludes that impacts from new leasing would be minor and ever growing amount of independent scientific and public health research paints a more comprehensive picture, especially for the people who live near these sites.
Per reviewed studies from California across the United States consistently show that living near oil and gas development is associated with increased exposure to air pollutants, including fine particular matter, nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds such as benzene.
These pollutants are linked to asthma, cardiovascular disease, cancer risk and other serious health outcomes.
Importantly, these harms are often localized, meaning they may not register in regional averages, but are actually felt by nearby residents.
Research has also found associations between proximity to oil and gas operations and adverse birth outcomes, including higher rates of preterm birth and lower birth rate.
Birth rate.
These are not abstract risks.
Preterm birth is one of the leading causes of infant mortality and lifelong health complications.
The draft SES largely dismisses these concerns by relying on outdated public health analyses, regional emission averages and promises of future project by project review.
It explicitly declines to conduct updated environmental justice or accumulative health impact analysis, even though many communities in California already face compounding burdens from wildfire smoke agricultural pollution.
Extreme heat and water scarcity. This doesn't even include the possibility of disturbing off-reservation sites that are considered sacred to the areas indigenous tribes, which the report lists as confidential, the areas not the tribes.
Water resources are another major concern. The SES states that oil and gas development uses a small fraction of regional water supplies and presents no new risks, but in a state defined by droughts.
Any added risk to groundwater or surface water, especially contamination that can persist for decades, poses a serious threat residents, agriculture and local economies.
Clean up when contamination occurs is slow, costly and often incomplete.
Perhaps most troubling is that one's leases are issued.
Local control is dramatically reduced. Cities and counties are left responding after impacts emerge rather than preventing them in the first place.
This is not a question of whether every possible well will cause a farm.
It is about whether we are willing to accept avoidable health water and climate risks.
The next speaker is Laxana.
Hello, council members.
So, and Madam Mayor, I apologize.
So, I moved in 2019 and I came in at the tail end of the Measure L conversation.
And actually, your campaign caught my eye. I was one of the moms that was commuting on basketball road.
And I was like, I don't want sprawl development. This is crazy. We need to think about this.
And so, just wanted to kind of, I don't remember what I voted to be quite honest, because it was a crazy light time in my life.
Estates where some estate holders own the agricultural land, and then the minerals are owned by the federal land.
I was trying to do some research to see if those specific parcels were split federal or estate lands.
And I think all of us in Brentwood are like, yay, no drilling in our backyard.
And so I think you would be worth it to look into some of that information.
That information is not available to the public. I've called up that in commission office in concert Costa and had my friend who is an urban role developer.
Help me look at some other parcels and it's kind of a little hard to find which ones are the federal.
The split estates and which ones are kind of in that pink dot that was shown in concert Costa.
I think this is something that it's worth looking into none of us want drilling back there.
They're not pretty.
It's off by Willie's Naples. That's where I go to all the time.
And my kids play at the park and it would be really nice to see if that 1700 acres is part of that split estate.
Thank you.
I have no additional cards in person. I do have one hand raised.
Crazy.
Go ahead.
Hello. This is not my promise to be more calm.
The only thing I want to say is that I hope you do issue a letter of opposition and try to fight it as long and as fast as you can.
It's just a matter of time before they come and you know, the sooner we can try to avoid it, the better.
That's it. Thank you.
I have one additional hand raised in zoom since I want to go ahead.
Good evening again.
Please issue a letter of opposition as we did several years ago and prove that was approved and in a matter by our city council.
We need to protect our city if you look back at the history.
It's always been an oil field and currently a lot of the homes on the west side of the city and even all the way to fair view they've been built on oil wells.
And we know very well it's been even on the news that it has a negative impact on our community and having drilling at the border of Brentwood.
It's going to be even worse and it's pretty much in people's backyard and as it's been projected.
I find remember correctly was three four years back.
It's at the distance less than what the current regulations are asking for.
So reinforcing the fact that we're opposed to it we're opposed to oil drilling in people's backyard.
We'll send another signal up to whom ever intends to drill around Brentwood.
So please consider doing this.
It will be very appreciated by the residents who currently suffer from the negative impact of their homes being built on top of cap wells as it is today.
And by the way, Brad the gate is the same thing. It's been neglected by two of the current council members that we have on the dias today one is remote by the way.
Thank you.
The thing is we need to send a signal that we're opposed to this. Thank you so much.
I have no additional hands raised in zoom.
Thank you moving into council discussion.
I would like to send a letter just reiterating kind of what we sent back in the day.
I was at 2021 I think I think 2021.
No was before I was elected 2020.
I think as when we sent a letter just kind of reiterating the same thing that we that we oppose oil and gas drilling just for the health.
I know there's a 3200 but buffer now that we didn't have then but just reiterating that there is a European company that continues to have their eye on low entry and there is an active application with the county that they have not removed.
I think they're just waiting for people to stop watching.
So I think just making sure that people know where we stand on oil and gas drilling is always just a nice thing to do and this is a good opportunity to do it.
I think it would be for us to not only send the opposition letter test. Yes, but also take the suggestion of our city manager to send it to our federal representative.
And also if we can ask some of our senator representative still supported if that's possible as well.
I think a letter would be the least we could do but I would kind of like as opposed to just a general letter of opposition when we were going through a gender review we had talked about.
Maybe specifically talking about on the EIS where they did not consider the health and safety of the neighboring communities to address that specifically.
So that they know it's because we're concerned about the health and safety of our citizens and that was one of the reasons for one of the things they did not study in the EIS so let's call that out as opposed to just a general letter.
I agree with the sense and men of all accounts of so far.
Okay, thank you and I do too and I think it's important to note to that our first moratorium was in 2022 and then the band in Brentwood was in 2024.
All of the health impacts have been noted I think it's a very good idea to include those and of course the Senate Assembly and federal representatives we've received copies as well.
When I think with that we are ready with promotion yeah I can make a motion so I'd like to make a motion for staff could please compose a letter.
Like Tony said includes the our concern over the health and safety of our neighboring communities.
And just our opposition to oil and gas drolling in contra Costa and if we could all a direction from Harold and faith to send it to all of our governmental partners so assembly Senate and then also federal.
I think that would be great if I'm missing anything.
No but I'd like to second.
Okay.
Can we get a roll call please.
Yes.
Mayor Mayor.
Yes.
And just to be clear.
No other direction needed right.
Thank you.
Thank you for that.
Okay.
Moving into item H2 Christine Andrews acting finance and information systems director will present the next item regarding the.
The next item.
Good evening.
Honorable Mayor and council members.
In June 2024 the city adopted its most recent two year operating budget.
Pillars of the city's operating budget development process include.
Funding set aside for future infrastructure and equipment.
equipment, replacement needs, and amounts budgeted specifically to address the city's unfunded
pension and retiree medical liabilities. The general fund budget also includes the capacity
to maintain the required 30% reserve of expenditures. Funding for essential services are then
proposed and approved by the city council. Tonight's update confirms that the city's general
fund remains structurally balanced in the second year of the two year budget revenues and
expenditures are aligned. General fund reserves are maintained and proposed mid-year adjustments
are modest and manageable. The updated 2526 general fund projection is conservative and incorporates
all known economic factors and the proposed budget amendments into tonight's action. The
projection shows that the general fund revenues will equal expenses in 2526 producing a break
even result. However, policy requires that 30% of budgeted expenditures be set aside as a reserve
in the general fund at the end of each fiscal year. As annual expenditures increase,
so does the amount required to meet this 30% target. At the end of 2526, we project that $600,000 will
need to be transferred from the budget stabilization fund to the reserve balance to meet the 30% requirement.
The key takeaway is that the city's general fund remains structurally balanced this fiscal year.
Next, I will summarize the mid-term general fund budget requests. General fund revenues are expected to
increase by $345,000 or 0.4% over the currently budgeted revenues. Sales tax are expected to come in
about $351,000 higher, which includes a one-time true-up adjustment. The city's sales tax consultants
expect sales tax revenue growth to be relatively flat in Brentwood in fiscal year 2627, which is
consistent with statewide projections. As detailed in the staff report, while some revenue categories
are outperforming expectations, others are softening, and the net result is a modest increase
that does not materially change the city's financial position. We'll now review proposed general
fund expenditure amendments. The adjustments proposed tonight would increase the general
of end expenditures by 0.3% or $220,000. As detailed in the staff report, total department requests
of $279,000 of additional goods and services are necessary for the remainder of the fiscal year. This
requested increase has been partially offset by one-time budget savings on county provided
animal services. Included in department requests are increases in parks and recreation budgets
for sports and recreation staff, utilities, and tree service costs. An increase in the city manager's
apartment for the purchase of a vehicle, an increase in the community development department for
higher credit card processing fees, which will be fully recovered. An increase in police department
expenditures for software costs, and finally an increase in engineering for the contrast to clean
water program costs. The impact on the general from the combination of the proposed revenue and
expenditure adjustments is favorable, resulting in a net increase of about $125,000.
Next step is a review of the updated general fund fiscal model. The city prepares a 10-year general
fund fiscal model to look at the long-term impacts of proposed budget changes in to ensure a sustainable
financial future. The fiscal model is not a forecast of what will happen. It's a planning tool that shows
where we are headed if current conditions persist. Importantly, it gives a city several years of
visibility to course correct if necessary. The fiscal model, like the operating budget, is also conservative
by design, and includes estimated costs for future impacts, such as operational costs for
amenities like the San Creek Sports Complex, and increasing pension costs. Revenue's are also
conservatively projected as the model includes slowing development and lower future interest income.
This chart summarizes the annual results of the updated fiscal model. The balance of the general
fund 30% reserve is shown in blue, and the budget stabilization fund balance in green.
As you can see, the 30% reserve grows steadily over the 10-year period, as expenditures grow
year after year, the amount needed to meet the 30% reserve requirement gets larger.
The reserve increases from about $25 million in fiscal year 2526 to about $34 million at year 10.
The model projects that the budget stabilization fund balance will be the highest in the current
fiscal year and be drawn down over the next nine years. Operating expenditures are projected to
exceed revenues by about $500,000 a year. Plus, the amount needed to maintain the 30% reserve in the
general fund is about $860,000 a year, and this will result in about $1 million remaining in the budget
stabilization fund at the end of the forecast. At about your five of the forecasts,
you can see that the total 30% reserve and budget stabilization fund balance together starts to
decrease. This gives the city kind of a five-year window to pursue economic development opportunities
with the important goal of increasing revenues. Additional revenues would support the 30% reserve
balance without the need to draw down the budget stabilization fund and, at the same time,
provide resources to maintain the high quality of life enjoyed vibrant wood residents.
Next step is a discussion of pension pay downs.
Council policy requires that in any year there is a general fund surplus after the reserve requirement is met,
that the surplus is transferred to the budget stabilization fund. After the transfer of 50% of
the surplus is required to be used to pay down unfunded obligations. The 2425 general fund surplus was
$1.3 million and half of that will be used to pay down unfunded pension liabilities.
An additional pension pay down of $600,000 from the budget stabilization fund is being recommended to
In June of 2024, the city council
Approved a set aside of $1.2 million of the 2324 surplus. The set aside was made as a good faith measure during ongoing labor negotiations now concluded.
Staff is recommending that 50% of the set aside be used for a pension paid-down in accordance with policy.
The 2025 budget and debt management committee agreed with the recommended pay-down but also recommended that the remaining 50% of the set aside of $600,000 be deposited and reserved in the general fund for use on future projects or programs at the city council's discretion.
As detailed in the staff report, budget amendments are also proposed tonight for funds other than the general fund that have employees to contribute their fair share match of the pay-downs.
These pension pay-downs reduce long-term costs, strengthen the funded position of the pension plans and are consistent with council policy.
Now, a brief discussion of city utilities and other fund amendments.
The city provides residents with solid waste water and waste water services.
The charges for these services and the accompanying costs are accounted for in individual enterprise funds.
These funds are self-supporting and do not receive any general funds support.
The proposed amendments in the utilities and other funds are primarily for each funds proportional share of the pension pay-downs.
We will now turn to issues on the budget watch list and next steps in the budget process.
As we look ahead, staff continues to monitor several factors that could influence future budgets.
First, consumer spending remains under pressure statewide.
While Brentwood revenues remain stable, sales tax growth is flattening.
Second, interest rates have stabilized but remain elevated compared to historical norms.
This affects both investment earnings and inflation and will continue to be monitored closely.
Third, while recent CalPERS investment returns are trending toward targets, future pension costs remain sensitive to market performance.
It returns fall short our required contributions could increase.
Finally, construction costs and aging infrastructure remain long-term challenges.
Many of the city's assets are reaching an age where maintenance and replacement needs will increase,
requiring careful prioritization through the capital improvement program.
None of these issues present immediate concerns, but together they reinforce the need for continued fiscal discipline and long-term planning.
This will be a busy next six months as we work towards a brand new two-year budget.
The process will include a strategic plan workshop in the spring followed by the CIP workshop and adoption.
And finally, the two-year budget workshop in May and adoption in June.
To summarize, the general fund remains balanced and the 30% reserve target met.
While we do not have capacity to add to the budget, we are also not in a position to have to reduce costs or services.
The budget stabilization fund is projected to be slowly drawn down over the next nine years, leaving in an estimated balance of about $1 million.
In the intermediate term, the Outlook remains manageable, provided the city continues its discipline approach to financial planning.
Finally, staffs are recommending the approval of all of the proposed budget amendments in tonight's staff report.
And I want to thank you. This concludes my presentation at this time.
Staff is available for any questions you may have.
Thank you, Christine. Do you have questions?
I just have one.
And I've been meeting a look at this and I just haven't had time.
Have we accelerated the surplus straw down? Like if I were to look at the model from five years ago, are we dipping into that surplus more than we had anticipated about five years ago?
Thank you for the question.
No, because our forecasts in the fiscal model are generally conservative.
We should be beating it most of the time or otherwise, you know, by definition, we're not being conservative.
So we have projected minor reductions in the past.
Now things have come along that we hadn't anticipated Costco would be your big one.
We didn't know that was coming a few years ago.
And now it's here. And so that helps.
Okay. So when we look at our projections, we tend to not include things that we're hoping for or that might come.
Now until we know they're going to come that way, we avoid spending or committing the money and then saying,
Whoops, something other side, we don't have the revenue to pay for that.
So it's actually better results than what you're seeing.
So if you want to extend that, you know, if I were to guess which side will land on, we should do a little bit better than that.
But we don't want to say that and then have fun and committed and then enter a recession that we haven't had in 10 or 12 years.
And then find ourselves having the cut. So that's why we are intentionally conservative.
Thank you.
Other questions?
I have one.
When you talk about the conservative method for this projection, I'm curious if you can talk a little bit more about how that works, how you do these projections,
because I think it's easy, it's easy for us to appreciate that that you're conservative in these projections.
But to understand really how that process develops.
So I could talk as long as you will have me.
That was an open invitation.
So, but I won't do that.
I know it's getting late.
So thank you.
Yes, understood.
So we are very conservative with first of all, our development projections.
So going forward, we're projecting, you know, single family, maybe 150 units or so per year.
So there's not a lot of, you know, if we're under that number, it's not going to impact us too much because we weren't relying on it much to begin with.
We don't have new innovation center revenues coming in.
We don't know when that's going to happen.
We don't know the impact that that's going to have unsales, tax and job generation.
All those sorts of things are unknown at this time.
So we don't say, hey, in five years, we're saved by the innovation center, nothing like that.
So on the expense side, we're also conservative in the, in the way that.
So I think most places probably take a look at their current budget and say, well, we'll just add 3% or 4%.
And so we actually work with CalPERS get very detailed forecasts on these things.
So that that side is a little less, I would say it's more accurate than anything.
Because, you know, it's less of an estimate and more of a, you know, you can kind of look,
what are our pension rates going to be? What's our open requirements going to be that sort of thing?
But we're also, you know, we don't put extra staffing in there.
So that's in one sense, we're not being overly conservative in that we're projecting.
We're going to need, you know, 20 new staff to show up.
And we're, you know, kind of upping our expenses like that.
That's not in there. So as the revenues come in, then we can do that.
But generally, I would say the way to look at it is we go for accuracy,
especially on the expense side, when we're able to do so and know what's going on on the pension and in retired medical,
but on the revenue side until it's fairly certain you're not going to see it in there.
And that's how we're conservative.
Thank you, Karen, Harold.
Yeah, I think.
Christine, you can probably slide up to show you one of the things that they're doing is they're anticipating the expense.
So this model actually includes, for example,
the cost for support of the same, who's saying Greek sports companies.
So they're adding those expenses in.
So we're not surprised later on.
Oh, we had this, this issue.
So they're really, really very good about those assumptions.
Thank you.
And I can add one more thing.
Thank you.
There's been a discussion on the San Greek sports complex.
For instance, you know, one of the meetings that we had preparing for the two year budget right now is getting together with parks.
And they said, OK, what did you have in the 10 year fiscal model for staffing?
Of San Greek sports complex, we're starting to pencil that out.
It's not.
It's going to be part of the two year budget.
Where did you start it?
You know, we started it.
I think, a 2627 and kind of ramped it in.
So, so staff is also aware that we're doing this and we kind of work together.
We kind of, you know, ask them, what do you think it's going to cost that in?
Check with them.
Again, the next year every time we're updating this model,
where it's just constantly being managed.
Thank you, Christine.
You also mentioned the flatlining of sales tax revenue.
Yeah.
And the staff report was projecting 350,000 for sales tax revenue increased in 2526.
But that other than that, you were considering that to be a one-time only.
Not ongoing.
Is that because of that?
Yeah.
I mean, we kind of have a reset in the amount of sales tax we're getting for a major new retailer.
We have, you know, we kind of reset the base.
But going forward, what we're seeing from our sales tax consultants and statewide.
Is a real slowing growth in sales tax revenue.
And that's because I think prices are really hitting people.
They're kind of dialing back some of their spending.
You know, when prices go up, we get a percentage of the price, right?
So, prices are going up.
You would expect that our sales tax revenue would also increase kind of like by the level of inflation.
But people are making different choices and dialing back their spending across the state.
So we're looking at like flat to 1% growth for the next fiscal year from our consultants projections.
That's how we we come up with that.
So yes, we've kind of already increased our base.
But then we're not seeing like a take off from there right now in our projections.
Again, we get together with our consultants quarterly.
And if they have different information, we will incorporate that into the to your budget will incorporate it into our every six month.
For cast great.
Thank you all of you appreciate that.
Should we move into public comments or do we have other questions?
Okay, thank you.
At this time, the public is permitted to address the city council on this agenda item.
If you're participating be assumed, please raise your hand.
If you're in person, please file a speaker card.
Your microphone will be muted if you speak on items that do not pertain to this agenda item or after the timer has expired.
I have no cards in person or I do have one hand raised in Zoom.
Tracy, go ahead.
Hi, I'm I'm trying to learn about all this budgeting and what have you.
And I see that in your projection, I'm just not even sure what I'm saying is right, but you have a 10 year projection.
On the budget.
And then somehow somebody has said that you've anticipated like what 150 homes or I don't know if I miss heard that.
But I'm wondering because of the California laws regarding housing and they're making.
You know, all these changes to what can be how much can be.
So this number that was anticipated is that taking into account what we're going to end up having to do because of the state.
Does that make sense, but anyway, that's I'm kind of wondering about that because if you have like 300 homes.
You have property taxes on 300 homes.
You know, it just kind of depends on what the state requires or what we're going to end up with.
So I don't know if that was taken into account or not.
Anyway, that's all I had to say.
I do have one additional hand raised in Zoom.
Since the on a go ahead.
Good evening again. Thank you for the opportunity to speak.
What caught my attention is the discussion around the aging infrastructure and that's definitely a concern.
So I really appreciate our finance team pointing that out.
And specifically as a resident just using our role to day in and day out.
It's impossible not to notice the degradation that we've been seeing along the years.
We went to use to be number one having the best roads.
I don't remember exactly if it was just for each day or.
The whole region in general and now over just we just have like I mentioned already seeing degradation over the years.
So and you know, it's a it's a real concern that a lot of the CIP projects that we had on in a past couple years on the list.
So I have been unfunded CIP projects directly related to our roads.
So I would really appreciate to see earlier bit more attention and.
Find allocated to our road maintenance and really selecting a contractors that are solid and do a great job on and you know just really getting a good value for our money.
Or that is allocated to a road improvements.
So that's really just one item that jumped out to me.
But again, a big shout out to our finance team.
They've been amazing along the years.
I really appreciate everything they've done for keeping our city in a good financial state.
And you know, having that conservative approach to all our finances.
Thank you so much.
Thank you.
Can you please respond to the question earlier.
Yes, thank you, Mayor.
So the way we do our development projections is we take the general plan and we take a look at what's left to build within the existing general plan.
And we just phase that in overt extended period of time.
And so we assume it's going to take a while.
And that's what when I say we're conservative, we don't assume it's going to happen in the next five years.
So we just kind of drip it in over 10, 15 year period.
But that's all we can go.
Is what's in our adopted general plan.
So that's what we're using at this point in terms of the unit counts.
Thank you.
Okay.
Council discussion after if we're closing public comments,
I don't see any more.
I have no additional speakers.
Thank you.
Discussion? I really appreciate the thorough report. Thank you all.
As always, it was an amazing being on the Finance Committee and actually being able to break all this
down for the last year and a half, and the ability for you guys to be able to make all of this
make sense to the public and somebody who has a high school education is incredible. So thank you for an amazing presentation.
I want to say thank you. And thank you for your staff time and all of your work on the budget subcommittee.
I know it was an added task that you didn't have before, and I do appreciate all of the extra work that everyone puts in on it,
because all your other departments have to give stuff to you first, and it comes to us. And so I appreciate everyone's efforts in this.
And I always appreciate everything you guys do from financial perspective. I know it's a lot of work personally. So thank you.
Vice-man, did you have anything? I'd say thank you. I was a great report.
And Christine, I really enjoyed having you speak on this and present all of that in a and a way that does make sense.
I think to everyone and sparks some really good questions. So thank you. Do you have a motion?
Oh, make it. I'm sorry before we do. We heard out that you have something.
I did want to go a big shout out to Christine. I think she did a good time with this job.
And I also want to just I should just carry this is the first organization that I've gone through where
the finance director has received a 10-page letter for me in the very beginning of the process. So I appreciate that.
Okay. As that fourth in the staff report, I moved to adopt a resolution,
amending the 25-26 operating budget.
Oh, second. Will call that please. Council member Maloney. Yes. Nice. Mayor Pearson. Yes.
Council member Mendez. Yes. Council member Orlamans. Yes. Mayor Mayor. Yes. And that passes. Thank you so much again.
Okay. Moving into H3 Michelle English management analyst will present the next item regarding ongoing
and recurring purchases with specified vendors for fiscal year 20, 20, 20, 25, 26.
Thank you. Good evening. Honorable Mayor and city council members. Tonight we are presenting a
mid-year update to the fiscal year 20, 25, 26 requests for council authorization of agreement,
amendments, purchase orders, and change orders that exceed $50,000.
Purchasing policy requires purchases of goods and services over $50,000 and legal services over $75,000,
be approved by the city council. In June before the beginning of each fiscal year,
policy requires approval for regular and recurring purchases and services with vendors
that are expected to exceed these amounts. For transparency, policy also requires that
purchases of any new services, new types of goods or vehicles exceeding these limits,
must be brought to the city council in a separate staff report for approval.
Increases to the amounts approved in June or vendors not originally included in June,
but are expected to go over the thresholds by the end of the fiscal year,
are presented in January for consideration of approval. This January staff report provides transparency
and includes the vendors with new or increased dollar amounts and the method of vendor selection.
This item simplifies the authorization process by consolidating the regular and recurring
purchases of goods and services into one staff report, as opposed to presenting dozens of
individual staff reports for all purchases exceeding policy thresholds.
All purchases with vendors presented tonight in exhibitay have been reviewed for compliance
with purchasing policy and are consolidated into one transparent report, allowing for
efficient and uninterrupted regular city operation. This item does not increase the operating
budget or authorize spending beyond the current approved budget. All purchases and service costs
must fall within the amounts included in the adopted operating or CIP budgets.
Staff recommends that the city council authorized the regular and recurring purchases
with the vendors in the amounts detailed in exhibitay. In conclusion, each department is responsible
for its respective vendors and amounts requested and staff from every department are available to address
any questions you may have regarding their specific items. Thank you.
Thank you Michelle. Any questions for staff?
Okay, public on it.
At this time, the public is permitted to address the city council on the agenda item. If you're participating
be as soon please raise your hand to speak. If you're in person please file a speaker card.
Your microphone will be muted if you speak on items that do not pertain to the
agenda item or after the timer has expired. I do not have any speaker cards in person.
And I have no hands raised in Zoom. Thank you very much. Council discussion.
Or a motion.
I'll make a motion. It is a support from the staff report. I moved to adopt the joint resolution
proving the an authorizing the city management city attorney and executive director of general council
or does it need to execute certain agreements, amendments, purchase orders and or change orders
that have anticipated spending over 50,000 and 75,000 for fiscal year 2025, 20,000.
Second, roll call please. Council member Maloney. Yes, Vice Mayor Pearson. Yes,
Council member Mendoza. Yes, Council member Orlamans. Yes. May or May? Yes, and the item passes. Thank you.
Yes.
Item H5. And you pull I engineering manager will present the next item regarding an agreement
for engineering design services for the low-entry way union-specific at-grade crossing CIP project.
Good evening. Honorable Mayor, council members. I'm Anjupilay, engineering manager with
engineering department and I'm here to present before you the agenda item H5. I'll be going through
the details on the background of the CIP project, 336, 3706, the loan-tree way union-specific
at-grade crossing project, a recommendation to the council for moving forward with the engineering
design of the project as well as the next steps.
Going into the project background, so the unit-specific railroad that goes through brand-vote
is also called the Mokoko line. It extends from Martinez to Tracy going through counter-nevil
weapon station, Bay Point, Pittsburgh, Antioch, Brandwood and Byron. So the name Mokoko in itself was
from a major smelting unit in Martinez called the Mountain Copper Company that used the line
in the early 1900s. So in Brandwood, the line crosses the city at five locations, namely Lontriwe,
Sanctuary, Centro Boulevard, Oak Street and Balho Road. The line has not been in operation for
more than three decades. Additionally, fire that's a hookah several years ago damaged the railroad
over by Marsh Creek rendering the structure impossible. So but despite the current inactive status,
Robe improvements that affect the railroad corridor must be approved by UPRR and the California
Public Utility Commission. So going into the project background, Lontriwe, under crossing,
so Lontriwe is a major artillery in the city and has experienced heavy traffic in the past several
years due to population growth. There is a bottleneck in traffic near the railroad crossing between
Medallion Drive and Fairview Avenue where there is only one lane in each direction.
So for over 20 years, the city has been coordinating with UPRR on potential improvements at this location,
through a CIP project which initially considered a great separated under crossing. To understand
what a great separated under crossing is, this shows a rendering of the original project which is an
underpass and as you can see in the rendering, the original project envisaged an underpass consisting
of six travel lanes under the UPRR line. These are more rendering from the original plan. It
shows a train track being supported by a bridge structure in its original location while Lontriwe
goes underneath as an underpass. The bridge structure is supported by concrete columns.
Efforts on this project hover was stopped in 2008, mainly because of lack of funding.
Power and if this project were to be constructed currently, the estimate is projected at $40 million.
So coordination efforts after the project after the efforts were stopped, coordination efforts were
resumed back in 2022 when the city and UPRR held field diagnostic meetings to evaluate the
railroad crossings at all the locations and a revised scope was evaluated, which contemplated
a four lane arterial along Lontriwe with median islands, bike lanes and sidewalk. In March of 2025,
staff worked with UPRR and got an approved variance request to the original underclassing project
and got an approval for an agreed widening of the Lontriwe to four lanes on the condition that the
city improvements that was identified by the diagnostic team are implemented at four other crossings.
So going back to the variance approval, we have two components to this various approval.
One is a Lontriwe at break crossing.
The schematic plan kind of shows the improvements which are planned in that area,
which includes widening of Lontriwe between Fairview Avenue to Medallion Drive.
They'll be four travel lanes with turn lanes, bike lanes, sidewalk improvements,
a landscape median island, there'll be the green infrastructure which includes landscaping
as well as any biorectension facilities and also utility relocations because there are PG&E pools along the way.
Second, component of this various approval is the safety enhancements that we are required
to do at all the other pole crossings. This is not as significant as it is on Lontriwe
and it includes primarily ADF grades which is sidewalk curb ramps, median islands, striping and
markings, signs, lighting upgrades and possibly a pre-signal at Balfour Road.
With this the current estimate for the updated project scope with their agreement improvements is now
at 21.75 million.
So if you look at the cost estimates, the original project if you were to have moved forward
would cost us about 40 million and so now with the updated scope of upgrade widening and safety enhancements
it got reduced to 21.75 million. So this brings us a total savings of 19.25 million.
Going into the funding sources, the primary funding source for this project is actually
so for people who don't like Crawford, it is an East County East Controcaster regional
fee financing authority. It is a joint forward authority that was formed in 1994 to coordinate and fund
regional transportation improvements in Eastern Controcaster County. It includes the city of Antioch
Brandwood Oakley Pittsburgh and the unincorporated areas of East Controcaster County.
The authority board is made up of elected officials of these five member governance,
as you can see Mayor Meyer serves as a board chair person and council member
alliments is her alternate. Alan Bacchler, director of engineering is a staff person.
So the core purpose of a Crawford is to establish a uniform regional development fee program
across a member jurisdictions. They collect and manage revenue to fund transportation infrastructure
that serves regional travel beats, coordinate planning and implementation of projects at address
regional growth mobility across. Equifer maintains a comprehensive list of regional transportation
projects, including major road widenings and extensions that are eligible for funding through
Authorizers, additions, regiments to a regional project list. Examples on the list include the Sam Creek Road extension in Antioch and Brentwood, Cyprus Road Improvement in Oakley, SR4 widenings, and finally the loan tree way, railway crossing project. So the project, our project is in the Acrofer project list.
So the major changes such as adding projects or changing priorities typically requires a unanimous note vote of the board ensuring all member jurisdictions agree on the regional priorities.
Staff would like to acknowledge Mayor Meyer as chairperson of the Acrofer Board and Council Member Allemesis alternate and thank them for the reference to ensure that this project remained a regional priority and eligible for regional funding.
The next funding source is a development impact fee which is the which is recommended for this project. So the development impact fees are collected through the cities development fee impact fee program at a higher level overview developers are required to pay mitigation fees at the time of permit building permit issuance and the collected fees are then fund the design and construction of the public facilities such as parks, community facilities, utilities and robots.
The widening of loan tree way is currently included in the fee program as a roadway project and therefore eligible for the funding.
summarizing the fiscal impact. These are the faces for this project.
Based on the next studies, Acrofer will fund up to 82% of the total project cost which amounts to $17,835,000.
The Acrofer Board will approve a change in the project scope from an undercrossing to an aggray cost crossing consistent with our approved variance and following this approval.
The city will enter into corporate agreement with Acrofer for the allocation of its share of project funding.
As you can see the remaining 18% has to be funded by deaf.
The required funds will be transferred from CIP336-31695, which is innovation center at Brandwood infrastructure.
At the same time, leaving sufficient funds to fund the utility extension project that was awarded in the last council meeting.
So this recommendation is not expected to impact with moving forward with innovation centers and specific plans.
As extension of the Jeffrey way will require right of acquisitions from private owners, including the East Bay Municipal Utility District and East Contra Costa irrigation district.
And also it is anticipated that the future developments will be required to extend Jeffrey way through conditions of approval.
With that, I'm summarizing that this is a funding source development impact fee and Acrofer and a transfer of funding from CIP336-31695 to this project to get us to a total of 21 million for our project needs.
Taking the various approval, engineering put out an RFP or request proposals to find a qualified consultant to perform the engineering design services.
We received two proposals.
After thorough evaluation of the scope submitted qualifications, similar project experience references and further negotiations on the cost proposal.
Staff is recommending Kim Lehon and Associates to perform the engineering design services for this project.
With that, a staff is recommending the city council adopt the resolution.
Approving in authorizing the city manager to execute a professional service agreement with Kim Lehon and Associates for the engineering design services in the amount of 1,104,755 plus funding authorization for a 10% contingency of 110,476.
For a total funding authorization of not to exceed 1,215,231 for the loan-3way Union Pacific at-grade crossing.
CIP project number 336-31340 and amending the 2025 26202930 capital improvement program and amending the 2025 26 operating budget for the Associates project funding transfer.
If this recommendation is approved, staff will issue the notice to proceed to the consultant to start the design services.
Staff will engage with a SQL consultant for review of the environmental documents for this project.
Staff will enter into a cooperative funding agreement with Echrofa and if everything works out, construction is anticipated and anticipated starting 202829.
With that, I'm conclude my presentation and I'm happy to answer any questions.
Thank you. Any questions?
We hear a lot about accidents on Oakley on their at-grade train.
What are the safety measures look like so that we don't have those same kind of accidents?
Because this area is, I think, a little bit busy, right?
So how are we going to make sure that it's safe?
At this point, there is a bottleneck in traffic at that location because you can see that the lanes on the west side is expanded, right?
The laundry way is widened.
Only there is this bottleneck right there and that is possibly a reason for that since happening more in that region.
So we as part, Kim Jong-un will also be doing a traffic analysis to figure out the safety features of this project.
So in coordination with UP, all safety enhancements as needed for that project will be implemented.
So it is our understanding that, you know, with the widening and addition of lanes and other, you know, complete street settlements, bike lanes and street lighting.
This will all enhance the safety of that corridor.
Okay.
And what do you expect the frequency of trains to be when they're like active there?
That is, it's a very interesting question because we still do not know when the train will be in operation.
Our communication with UP is that we have to design it in a way that the train will start tomorrow.
But unfortunately there has not been any time line on when that train will go through.
So if we never did this, there would be never any trains coming through.
We do not know when like when UP's plans are to have the train allowed through that.
Okay.
But unfortunately, any improvements we have to do based on their guidelines.
Okay. Thank you.
I have one question. With the widening of laundry way to six lanes. That's what I heard correct.
No. So the original project, the underpass had six lanes.
Okay.
So when the UP had a that field agnostic meeting with the staff, they agreed upon a four lane.
And based on our review of the project, four lanes will be sufficient for that corridor.
Perfect. And do we have to exercise? I mean, it don't mean at all to take any of the land or are we good.
We are all good. All the right of it was a quiet ahead of this. Okay. Thank you.
It's obviously it's going to take a little while to get this off the ground. So to speak.
For it to not even be starting in two years until two years passes. But during that period of time.
I was traffic going to be relocated or redirected.
Or you're talking when it goes into construction.
At that time, definitely we will have a traffic control plan in place.
So the consultant will make ensure that, you know, if there is any closures required.
It will be, you know, notified appropriately and measures will be made to ensure that there is a traffic flow for all the residents.
And we will make sure most likely it will be a phase out closure. So it won't be a complete closure, allowing traffic at least to go through.
That is our understanding at this point. But these details will be looked at when we go out to construction. Great. Thank you. Any other questions?
Okay. Moving into the comments, please.
At this time, the public is permitted to address the city council on this agenda.
And if you're participating via Zoom please raise your hand to speak. If you're in person, please file a speaker card.
Your microphone will be muted if you speak on items that do not pretend to this change and the item or after the time or house expired.
We receive zero written public comments and advance that this item.
I have no speaker cards in person that I do have one hand raised in Zoom.
Sanciana go ahead.
Hi, good evening.
I really like this project. I'm not sure how it came about.
It looks like a great improvement for our city. However, I am here to express my opposition from allocating funds from innovation center and directing them to this project.
Innovation center should be the number one project going forward for our city is the only opportunity and possibly the last opportunity for our city to create good paying jobs for our residents and I would hate to see funds being allocated to some of the projects. Thank you.
I have no additional hands raised.
Thank you.
And I think that is a good question to answer because I think when we've talked about the funding transfer is not going to impact the progress of the innovation center.
And I'm curious why the funding would have been allocated their first if it wasn't going to be impacting the progress.
I would request.
I can answer that regarding the Jeffreyway extension and so as you know, if you roll record the last city council meeting, we approve city council approve the award of the construction contract for the utilities extension that as you know and we fully believe that that's going to help the marketability of the PA1 or the innovation center area.
So that's step one. The remaining we are removing funds from that project to this last recommendation based on the opportunity.
If you use right now in that area and with future development when it does come through the city we anticipate we wouldn't.
There would be conditions of approval on those developments to complete the improvements at that time.
But again, the utility extension itself I think is going to bring in through the marketability of the innovation center area.
Thank you, Alan. So I think for me the question is still.
We did initially have that money those funds allocated to that expansion or that extension and now we're not saying it's necessary just want to understand how that worked.
That was at it. I think when the project was originally created it was envisioning the city building Jeffreyway extension it's fixed on any Jeffreyway from its current terminus to I think it's beyond Amber Lane.
So the idea is when when developers do come through we would still be able to through the fee program those when they do and build it out they would be eligible for reimbursement from the city through fee credit so.
In the long run I would just in from staff perspective we don't see this as holding up development.
Thank you for that. Okay console discussion.
Just to piggyback on that so I.
So we took development fees from older developments and put it in this bucket right for innovation and what we're saying is yes we had it earmarked for this.
But because we're getting set was at $17 million from aircraft it's worth moving these dollars from this bucket to this bucket.
Okay, so what happens in innovation center in the future developers have to pay their fair share of the roads right so some of it will be paid by them and then we'll still have some money left over right.
That's correct. Yeah, when the developers come through there's calculations and fiesta that's done so there is a.
Kind of balancing that happens, but yes ultimately if they are do reimbursements for the improvements they build then they'll receive them through our fee program and vice versa if they owe us for their fair share they'll similarly give it to us.
And while it's not perfect like I would have preferred the above grade.
I am concerned about the safety I'll be honest like I am I'm concerned about it but getting $17 million from aircraft.
I think we we kind of we kind of got to do it will save our voters or residents money.
So I mean I do prefer the above grade but I will give in on this one.
I don't like it but I'll do it.
Thank you.
Any other comments because I've got.
Okay, I did want to mention I think as far as being chair at that by the way that was last year there's a new chair.
So I coming on to it last year.
I prefer as a very complicated committee commissioner board to be on just like try delta just like.
Transplant and state route for all of them have a huge learning curve and so for staff to have been supportive as they have been throughout this process of learning for me.
It has really helped.
So thank you for that. And I think two, I remember Mayor Bryant talking a lot about attending
efforts by meetings and advocating and I've been on there and Councilmember Orlements have seen this
in his trident work. There's a lot of cities that are basically battling for the same amount
of funds and everyone has a priority project. So this is a big deal for us. This is a very exciting
for us. We hear a lot. One of the major complaints we hear is about traffic and safety due to the
growth that we've had in the city. So even though it's a little far off, I wish it could start
sooner. I do really appreciate the fact that we've been able to collectively, as a city, as you know,
people who have been on that board in the past that we've all kind of worked together to make this happen.
And so thank you again for all of your support as staffers on this and for helping me with the learning
curve. And with that. Oh, Mayor, I think we're not a comment. I'm sorry. You asked, but I was trying
on you. I did want to say thank you to you, Madam Mayor, for your time on Echrafa and Tony for
your willingness to be her back up. It goes a long way. Well, we have representation in these meetings
and just your commitment with having a full-time job to go on to them. I just want to say thank you. I want
to thank staff. This, I'm sure Councilmember Miloni knows that we're, we're our district is pretty
much affected by the bottlenecking. It is dangerous. I've actually since I've been here, there was an accident
in that area of a child on a bicycle that had to be airlifted from that area. And so that is concerning
the safety and the bottlenecking, the people who try to race around to try to get a little bit further
down long-tree. I even went to the doctor, my physician, who is in Brutley said, she doesn't go
down long-tree. She goes all the way around just to get home to avoid that bottlenecking. So yes,
I'm with the mayor. I wish we could do this like tomorrow. I'm super excited for the improvements to
our infrastructure. And I'm also grateful to staff for such an amazing staff report and presentation.
Tonight, I'm also happy that we asked a couple of the times about grants and how we can
navigate unique funding and you all listen. And so I'm grateful. And then finally, it is finally
nice to see some construction costs come in under what a previous estimate was. So that is always good news.
Thank you. And Harold. Yes, Mayor, part of the report indicated there are four locations for construction
and this project. And so while the main construction site is at the one-long tree with the
of the food costs, but there are also three other sites that you have to spend time. And so we used about
the 28, 29 construction start date. Are you saying that all four of them start at that point time? We're
in the three of the other stories. I heard that that that we made to be my date.
No, that cannot happen independent of the laundry way improvements. So once we have the consultant on board,
we have to engage with UP for new diagnostic meetings. And then we have to enter into construction
and maintenance agreement with UP. So for all these improvements, so it will be a one project in one go.
So all the improvements will be designed. And UP has to review all the plans. And then they enter into
a maintenance agreement with us. When all these formalities are sorted out, then we go into construction
in one go. So it cannot happen independent of the laundry way project. Just yeah, from the city
staff perspective, we'll do our best to push the laundry way. I mean, laundry way improvements to go first,
the other four locations. Really, they're just primarily striping equipment updates,
ADA upgrades. And that will be done. But we don't see that impacting traffic during construction
too badly. Thank you. And we are ready for emotion. I can make it.
As detailed in the staff report, I moved to adopt a resolution of proving and authorizing the city manager
to execute a professional services agreement with Kimlin Horn and associates incorporated for
engineering design services for the loan tree way Union Pacific at grade crossing. CIP project number
336-31340 amending the 2025-2026-22029-30CIP and amending the 2025-2026 operating budget for the
associated project funding transfer. I will second go. Go ahead. Well, you go. All second. Thank you.
Amanda. Councilmember Maloney. Yes. Vice Mayor Pearson. Yes, and I'm Anna.
Councilmember Mendosa. Yes. Councilmember Orlemann. Yes. Mayor Meyer. Yes. I didn't pass this. Thank you.
We're going to move back into information goals and we will start with Vice Mayor. Thank you very much.
First I want to I need to address statements. May earlier tonight they were both inaccurate
in appropriate california government code expressly allows remote participation for just calls,
including medical reasons. I'm disabled and my remote participation is lawful and appropriate.
Suggesting otherwise is false and is disparaging to people with disabilities and has no place in
this chamber. Rather than us sitting on message of exclusion, the council should be clear that no matter
your circumstances, abilities or differences, you can have a seat at the table. It is particularly
hypocritical that the criticism comes from the very person who previously argued in favor of remote
participation for public comments so that they themselves can participate remotely. Despite my medical
imitation since our last meeting, I attended the MLK prayer breakfast. The rock church dedication
with mayors and council members from any odd Brentwood Oakley Pittsburgh and Mountain House,
which included a representative from Senator Grayson's office and as supervisor skills,
press and attend it and supervisor burges into certificate as well as I attend the DVC craft feed.
I also want to correct the record that the love meeting regarding love meeting, the meeting did not
occur because anonymous email raised an agenda posting issue tied to the address where I would be appearing
remotely, not because I was unavailable or unwilling to participate. With respect to the midnight
basketball, a majority of this council voted to support and fund the program. My understanding is that the
fund have yet to be actualized and dispersed to the Internet recipient. Finally, while some cities
a council members around the country, and send council members around the country and out of the country,
at public expense. My trip to Europe at the end of last year was a personally funded vacation,
not a single dollar was paid for by the city of Brentwood. Any suggestion otherwise is false
and my beliefs or splendourous. Those are the facts. Now for my district, I ask city staff what is going
on at big basin, drive and on her lane regarding the electric pole and discover that the pole will
possibly be moved to summer. Additionally, oh here in San Creek, I noticed that the lights were only
half on on the street and so city staff said they would check into what was going on with the lights.
Going only half on. And then the greenery, I got a couple of comments about the lack of greenery
in the art installation that it didn't reflect what was pictured when the art installation on San
Creek was presented to us and city staff is looking into the greenery being put there.
Other than that, that's my update. Thank you. Thank you, council member Mendoza. Hello,
and so as we've met, I attended a council these roundtable with the subject matter of economic
development. I met with our lab I and he will be meeting with our staff and we just want to make it
clear that we don't accept any anti-Semitism, any kind of racism, any prejudice in our city,
and want to make sure he and his congregation feel safe. Attended a supervisory Chanel skills
presence and craft feed, attended the lounges, three year anniversary, the downturn work would
coalition members meeting. Another calcities roundtable around in e-bike regulations, which had
the most people I've ever seen at around table. I think it was about 250. A lot of cities are having
the same issues we're having around e-bikes. I attended the calcities academy and was happy to be joined
by Carrie, which we kind of geeked out during the financial presentations. Attended the Brentwood Police
Department Recognition Dinner. Attended the downturn work would craft feed, which was a lot of fun.
Attended the opening for with Amanda, who went and our planning commissioner,
Chris Brant, to the VR next gen opening, and that is over at the really shopping center if you like that
kind of stuff. I didn't want to put it on like it kind of scares me, but intended the contract
contract cost a rapid response training in light of what is happening with ice. Yesterday,
had the pleasure in the honor of attending the urban league of the Greater Bay Area State of the Black
Bay Survey and Google, Google, and a tutorial forum at UCSF. Today, I attended a trilogy fired
severity zone meeting and it was really sad because these people all bought their houses when we didn't
have these red zones in our area and now the updated county maps have red zones and a lot of
these people are going to be uninsurable or have really high insurance and it's going to impact their
property values and their ability to sell. From what it looks like it, there's not much we can do at this moment.
It would be nice if we could find ways to help them. Contract cost a county fire is trying to help them
find ways to lower their rates with there's a list of like 20 things you can do and if you do those
usually get a discount on your insurance from some providers but elections matter and we have a new
insurance commissioner coming up in the state of California so hopefully we get someone that can
help with our rates. Thank you. Don't remember or lemons. Thanks.
Yeah. Usually I'm loud enough without it but okay. We've had the trade-altitude transit
gender review. Recognition ceremony for the Brentwood Police Department is a great event and it was really
nice hearing other officers within the building that weren't Brentwood officers. They were from other
agencies. Same while. I wish our department would do things like this for our people so it is a shout-out
to the Brentwood PD that we do recognize or employees when they do great things.
The I attended the celebration for the nine-year anniversary with Rock Church in Antioch as well as
the dedication of their new building at 501 Autocenter Drive. Thank you for the invitation by smair.
The meeting, I had a meeting with the veterans regarding the construction on the fire station
about parking and whether they were able to move some fences around and we're starting to work on
that or see what fire can do to help us out with that. I attended a poll meeting regarding the
crab feed for how that ticketron sale right now and the event is March 14 and then the special meeting
today of the close session. Thank you council member Maloney. Hello everyone. Since our last meeting
I attended a human trafficking fundraising event for community violence solutions. It was a great event
hosted by Vine and grain and coordinated by Kyle Baker and Jessica Lopez. I'm very thankful for having
members in our community actually advocate for the fight against human trafficking and awareness.
I also attended the East County NAACP MLK prayer breakfast along with other elected officials
and community members. It was a great event where Dr. Martin Luther King's legacy was remembered and
instilled to be continued forward for the pursuit of peace and justice. I also attended an award ceremony
for outstanding performance at the community center that awarded various achievements such as mothers
against drunk driving award, legal fire armor coverage, outstanding community service officer,
outstanding officer and dispatch for the Brentwood Police Department. I also attended the downtown
Brentwood Coalition Crap feed which was a sold out event and it was a great event. Thank you to the
DBC for all that you do for our community. I also attended the League of All Cities,
Mayors and Council Conference or Academy and I'm also happy to announce that I was appointed
by the Calcities President to serve on the Public Safety Policy Committee and I was also appointed
by the League's African American Caucus to serve on the Community Services Committee and just for
this year the Public Safety Policy Committee priorities were identified as Prop 36 implementation,
addressing fentanyl and other controlled substances and wildfire mitigation and zone zero implementation
and for our community services policy committee the priorities were identified as
seniors and aging parks and recreation and access to open space and early learning child care
and youth programs with homelessness component to all three. Thank you. Since we met last,
I attended the League of California Cities Roundtable on Economic Development, the third anniversary
of the Lounge Celebration. I attended the Martin Luther King Junior Day of Service cleanup at
Creek Side Park which was hosted by East Bay Regional Park District and the March Creek Restoration Project.
Lots of volunteer opportunities available through that group so Earth Team I think is the group
that was of children kids there. The Calcities Roundtable on e-bike regulation, yes it was hugely
A meeting for the community day of service for 2026. This will be our third year, two years in a row, we've had approximately 700 volunteers and, potentially, around 30 non-profits, working together that day to support initiatives happening in Brentwood. At this point, the date is April 18th, marker calendars as a tentative, we're working on moving that forward.
I met with the East County Valkyrie Girls flag football to discuss options to work with the city. Thank you for to staff for working on that.
The annual recognition ceremony for the Brentwood Police, the downtown business coalition, craved in our fundraiser, attended countercostal rapid response training to just really truly understand how to be an observer to monitor if ice does show up in our community.
And with the San Francisco immigrant center moving into conquered, potentially by summer, I think it's something we need to be aware of.
And then also attended the Urban League of Greater San Francisco Bay Area, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. breakfast, state of the Black Bay Area, and gubernatorial candidate for him. And I'm handing it over to Harold.
Mayor, due to the late hour, I'm going to pass.
Okay, moving into, we are at request for future agenda items and I have one.
We used to do forward, I used to be on lead. We used to do kind of a post event follow-up where we'd get response on ROI would get just kind of a breakdown of what the budget actually looked like coming back after the project.
And so I'd like to see that it's a basically grant reporting following events or however the funding is used.
I think that was something that was really helpful for lead members to be able to bake future decisions and city council in general to understand how that many things spent.
Any questions on that?
Can you elaborate a little more in that mayor?
Yes, so following events that had been funded through lead. There was a, I'm sorry.
The grants.
There were, it was like a P&L following it, so they would report back to us.
Did they actually spend the money the way it was supposed to be spent?
Did they have to make any amendments?
Did they learn anything from this?
It was more like a, did they meet the criteria through which they qualify for the grant?
It's just in.
Yeah. So it's my understanding that there is a report that there's supposed to be fighting to staff.
I did that conversation with Abraham yesterday.
And so I'll go back through and there's some organizations that have not done so.
And so one of the things that we talked about is when we come back in the new cycle is that that's one of the conditions that they will need to comply with or they should not be qualified or allowed to participate in the grant.
In the grant program the next year.
But I'll, before I'm least moral.
I always should.
We get all that.
We'll come back with a, was a, was a report back.
Thank you.
And I do remember when I was on love that that was a requirement, but I do also remember that some people had not complied.
And I don't think, if we want to call it enforcement, I don't think the enforcement of that requirement was consistent either.
And so I think it just, it really needs to be a very clear requirement and did you have feedback?
I actually requirement went away.
Daren Gail asked to no longer do it.
So I believe that that's what happened.
He actually took it away.
Because I had asked for it.
And I think it was there was enough staff time, but I think there's a way that we can figure it out.
Okay.
Awesome.
Same thing.
But I would have a full discussion.
Do we even have to have a future agenda item?
It was not changed by council was changed by economic development with, with Darren without the request.
So could we just go back without her without it coming back?
Like council directive, which is totally fine with me.
Yeah.
It's actually, it's actually, it's actually still in the guidelines.
But what we can do is that I believe there's no need for a future agenda item request.
I believe that we can just come back as a regular report to the council and we'll have a discussion there.
Fair enough, sounds good.
So we'll have that to our list of items.
Thank you very much.
Okay.
Moving into item J1.
Vice Mayor Pearson and councilmember Maloney will introduce their item.
Thank you.
As I brought forward before we right now have obviously big sporting events that are coming into the Bay Area.
For example, Super Bowl and in June to July we're going to have FIFA.
And one of the things that I've learned that our city's not has not engaged with the Bay Area host committee.
In the Bay Area, which is basically coordinating cities in Alameda County, Contra Costa County to provide different types of tourism to a lot of those tourists that are coming for those sporting events.
So for the whole month we're too late for Super Bowl, but for the whole month from June to July.
Well, FIFA's here.
One of the things that we'd like to folk or I'd like to bring forward to all of you for discussion is to have a tourism strategy for the city.
For the city of Brentwood that focuses on day experience for us.
I'm not necessarily locals that are coming here for that.
And how do we do that?
Basically with engaging our community and activism stakeholders.
I've spoken to harvest time and I asked for this item to be actually put on the agricultural committee as well, just so it could be on their radar.
To also engage Brentwood farmers and any of our local businesses, restaurants, retailers, event organizers, historical society.
To basically come up with some sort of strategy for during this time.
I looked at other cities, for example.
There are day experiences for Morgan Hill, for example that I found where a person that can come, they could go on a farm, do horseback riding, do picnics, do a wine experience.
So those are the things that we don't have here, they don't necessarily need to stay here because we don't have the hotel infrastructure.
But we can provide those day experiences, especially since we are the U.P. capital here in Brentwood.
So I could see farm events, day experiences, wine events that basically partner with our historical society with our downtown coalition.
Things that would invite that, and then we would just need to basically develop a marketing strategy and timeline that would work with all of our stakeholders to have that at least open and available during this period and time.
Vice Mayor, do you have anything else to add?
Yeah, I just wanted to throw some numbers out there. There's an economic analyst for 2026 fee for World Cup project that individual U.S. health cities could see projections of about $160 million to $620 million in economic activity due to this event.
A lot of it will be visitor tour spending tourism transportation food and beverage, of course hospitality when the arts but retail.
Some things that people are hosting are like the things that the council member Manoni said, but even restaurant weeks that will encourage economic activity in places like our downtown area or the parts of our city.
Our U.P. weekends that would encourage that in our agricultural spaces.
In a broader context, some cities have seen an upwards of $500 million in economic impact just on fancy and tourism revenues.
So I think it's definitely something that we need to look into and have a broader conversation.
The only issue is that it's right around the corner. So this conversation in my opinion should be immediate and expedited with a return back from staff on some suggestions or comments as soon as possible.
Any questions from staff to council or from council council.
May I I think one of the important components that we need to come back to the to the council with this.
How are these other cities organizations doing that what is the infrastructure that they have.
I think the council's right we have the product we need to get the product out there and so one of the things we want to do because of the short time frame is.
I suspect that these organizations actually have additional professional marketing help.
And so what we need to do is we'll come back to the council with with what what they're doing and how they're doing the engagement.
And we may be able to just to look at that and either get seek additional resources to help or just provide our existing material to the right marketing people to get us with the right in the right connection.
And I think learning more about it for example, pleasant hill and while the creek have already partnered up with the Bay Area host committee on their visit while the creek dot com visit pleasant hill dot com and I think what they what they're doing is just bringing all their stakeholders to kind of bring their product and sharing it with the Bay Area host committee.
So I think it's incumbent on how do we bring all of our stakeholders create that product and sharing it so I think that's where we need to like what do we come up with.
Yeah, I agree. I think that partnership with the host committee. They'll probably help us generate ideas in marketing proposals.
So can you clarify what is our time frame for being able to launch so to speak.
So I think.
The event is going to start here in June in order for us to have something concrete people start to plan things out at least two three months, some six months and years.
It would be beneficial if we can have something by February so the end of February from staff just to kind of kick it off and then when we.
And hold our agriculture committee just kind of talking to the ag committee folks on harvest time on how we can create those different experiences.
I've already spoken to Jessica you know's about this so that way she can get a heads up and start kind of thinking of different ideas as well.
So for a question for staff.
How are we feeling about capacity to be able to pull off something.
Significant or are you thinking maybe the first time we do it. It's a little bit smaller and then next time there's a little bit more capacity to expand and grow.
I mean, I'm guessing it's Parks and Rec, but is it also you or is it not Parks and Rec, I mean, who would be.
I think it's part of the development maybe.
Yeah, I know it's here from there.
Yeah, it won't be part of it.
And they're short handed. Yeah, sorry. Go ahead.
So it wouldn't necessarily fall to Park and Rex because what we're talking about really is it's taking our existing items and being able to market it to the right organizations.
And so I think we'll look at economic development, we'll look at the city attorney's office and really look at casting a net to other cities and other city managers to find out to get to make the connection to get to the right people to expedite this.
I think Park and Rex along with our other community partners have products that we can pull together and it's that those products that need to be connected with the right organizations.
And so I'm in my main development that that deals this 100% like in San Francisco economic development drove this it's not throwing an actual of it because a lot of times the host committee is just looking for a space to go to for their events like a hero for actual already existing products.
So we wouldn't even need any one to throw anything this is just hey we have space is these are offerings and how do we come to the table to sit to drive more.
Tax dollars be in our city.
Okay, thank you for clarifying question though because we do have two people short now economic development is that something you're feeling comfortable about taking on.
Yes.
Okay.
Yeah, and I think I was just going to say we could always ask our local partners to create the experiences themselves.
We're just marketing or helping the marketing so I don't think we necessarily need to create it we're just the liaison.
I think what's important is that we look at this from the standpoint of understanding the infrastructure identifying what really works for example.
You think is such a standalone unique opportunity to be able to and I'm not I think I'm there I will you pick capital the nation of the world I'm not quite sure yet, but but.
You know just the I will when I was.
Coming to what and I got to copy that map that map is so impressive and and you can spend weekends here week after week and I think that that is such an opportunity to market.
So we may well look at you know what can we do immediately and develop that strategy and then then come back the next time with a larger large strategy so.
Our focus will be what do we have shovel ready to give to someone to be able to say I send with us with this organization.
Absolutely.
Great if there aren't any other questions where we can to public comment.
At this time the public is permitted to address the city council on this agenda item of your participating via zoom please raise your hand to speak if you're in person please file speaker card your microphone will be muted if you speak on items that do not pertain to this agenda item.
I have no cards in person.
And I have no hands raised in zoom.
Okay thank you any further discussion on this yes.
And it has the visitors on here and it has the buckets. I think we probably need to be a little bit focused on what we want. So, like, okay, so wineries, what's our goal for the wineries? Is it, you know, they can't spend a night here because we really don't have that many hotels here. So what does that look like?
They're already doing a trolley. So do we, do we think we need to expand the trolley? How do we help them bring in more people to do their tastings and buy their files? So like, I think that's one area of tourism. And then the you pick one, I mean,
that one they have, I think, I mean, they're golden on that. I don't know how many more people we can take on our roads for you pick during that time because it's like, it's so crazy.
And then I think about events. And when, like, so, for example, when you're talking about the soccer, I'm like, do we part, like, we don't have the soccer fields yet, right?
Or not going to have them for that. But do we partner with someone like the DBC and say, hey, if you want to run this program to bring people downtown to celebrate, you know,
the world cup, like, do we put up a big screen? And you can watch a game downtown. Like, what does that look like?
I think it's a good idea. But I think it's like, put it in these buckets that are very targeted. And what is someone already doing that we can just leverage and maybe help them a little bit.
Because I don't think we have to own it all like you were saying, we could be like the liaison. But I think there's a lot of it. I think the FIFA one definitely if we could find a partner to help us do that and figure that out. That would be so fun. But I mean, I'd love to see that bunny on a big screen. We're going to miss that one.
But so I think the people when I do worry about the FIFA one because a lot of people are saying they're going to boycott the games because no big California got the worst pick of the games in the whole tournament. I think so I'm not sure how many people are going to get.
I mean, people are trying to sell their tickets now. So, but I think it's a great idea. I just think maybe bucketing it up and who's doing it and where can we take them and if we think there's a next level they can go to how do we do that.
You know, so that was it. That was my only comments. Okay, a motion.
Can I add one more comment? I think that we're focusing on FIFA, but I find this to the ongoing that we continue this for other events.
So I think when we made this agenda item, it wasn't just for this event, but it was for future. So I always think a constant contact that when we find out things are coming to California or Bay Area.
That we figure out a way to be involved and bring that generate revenue to our city.
Yeah, and just to be clear what my goal would be is to help the city develop the infrastructure.
So we take this sample and we run it through and we develop a system where it's easy for us to our best products into the system to make the connection as as
as council members and those are said, we can take a take it to the next level of an existing program.
Okay, I'm going to make the motion.
You can, if you want to.
I like to direct staff time and attention to to look into how we can begin to bring more.
I'm sorry to work with, I'm sorry I had it in my head and I'm in right now.
Sorry.
It's the second because I want to look at awesome my notes.
How we can work to.
Go ahead, if I you do it, I just lost everything I was going to say.
All right, I would like to direct staff to prepare tourism strategy for the city of Brentwood that focuses on day experience tourism.
That leverages our Brentwood acturism and local amenities and captures basically the increased Bay Area visitation associated.
Especially with the FIFA event occurring in July, but also other events.
And if we can engage with our local stakeholders to help lay us on with them on creating that day experience or strategy to track the tourists.
Also, to engage with the Bay Area host committee to create that line of communication where we're funneling our day experiences and creating that marketing strategy with our partners.
To advertise what we have and to track the tourism.
We add that and do return to the council, no, no later than March 24th.
That I was going to say.
And February.
Yeah, I was going to say can we do either early March or in February.
No, there's a March 10th.
Okay.
No later than March 10th.
I second that motion.
Will call please.
Council member Meloni.
Yes, nice mayor Pearson.
Yes, and I'm along.
Council member Mendez.
Yes.