MINUTES  CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ESCALON City Council Chambers, 2060 McHenry Avenue -7:00 P.M.  MEETING OF OCTOBER 21, 2024  RATED ARCY  Beginning Resolution No. 45-24 Beginning Ordinance No. 597 Beginning Minute Order No. 54-24  PRESENT:  Mayor David Bellinger Mayor Pro Tem Andrew Thomas Hagan Councilmember Jeremy Engle Councilmember Malinda Walker Councilmember Shawn Strohman  STAFF PRESENT: Jaylen French, City Manager  Celinda Bickner, Finance Director/HR Administrator (FDHRA) Juston Collins, Public Works wpermtendentManager. (PWSM)  Robert Hardgraves, ChiefofPolice Frank Splendorio, City Attorney  PRESENTATIONS  1. Certificate of] Recognition - Officer Baldonado for His Heroic Efforts Mayor Bellinger postponed the recognition to the following meeting, November 4, 2024.  CONSENT CALENDAR  These items are consideredi routine in nature and are acted upon by a single action unless requested by an  individual Council. Member or member of the public for special consideration. 2. Approve the Minutes from the Meeting of October 7, 2024  3. Approve the Register of Demands for October 21, 2024 ini the amount of $728,052.29. 4. Consider Authorizing the City Manager to Execute an Agreement with San Joaquin Council Mayor Bellinger introduced the consent calendar, which includes routine items acted upon by a single MOTION -] Iti is moved/seconded byl HAGAN/WALKER that items 2, 3, and 40 of the consent calendar be approved as presented. Motion carried (5-0) MINUTE ORDER 54-24  ofGovernments for Senate Bill 125 Funding  action.    MINUTES Escalon City Council October 21,2024 Page 2 of12  STAFF COMMUNICATIONS & UPDATES  5. September Staff Updates a. Treasurer's Report for August b. Police Department Report for August C.A Animal Control Report for August d. Recreation Department Report for August e.D Development Services Report for August f.P Public Works Report for August g. Building Department Report for August h.Water Department Report for August - Waste Water Treatment Plant Report for August j.City Manager's Report (verbal)  FDHRA Celinda Bickner discussed the Treasurer's Report.  Escalon resident, Gabriella Vargas inquired about a potential discrepancy in dates, to which FDHRA ChiefofPolice, Robert Hardgraves provided an update on the hiring process for a new officer indicating that the City had extended an offer to a candidate as well as two: reserve positions. PWSM Juston Collins reported on various public works projects, including the Valdepena waterline and street rehabilitation project, which is going well and ahead ofs schedule. He also mentioned the City Manager French discussed the timing and implementation oft the proposed Constitution training for staff and the council, aiming for a rollout by the end oft the year or early next year. Councilmember Walker commented that she appreciated the general fund reports in the agenda  Celinda Bickner clarified the fiscal year dates and the ongoing audit process.  installation of enhanced crosswalk lighting at the Escalon-Bellota crossing.  packet, finding it helpful for quick reference.  MATTERS PRESENTED FROM THE AUDIENCE  The public may address the City Council on any item that is on the Agenda at the time the item is called. The public may also address the City Council on any item not on the Agenda that is within the subject matter ofthe City of Escalon. Each. speaker is limited to ai maximum offive (5) minutes. Unused time may not be yielded to another speaker. You may. state your name and address for the record; however, it is not required. Due to state law, action will not be taken on an item that is not on the Agenda and except for briefresponses, the Council is prohibitedj from discussing any item not on the agenda. Ifit requires action, it will be referred to staff and/or placed on aj future Agenda. The determination of whether an item is within the subject matter of the City is a Escalon resident, Peter Krumeich, verified that public comments would be allowed under  discretionary decision made by the Mayor.  administrative matters.    MINUTES Escalon City Council October 21, 2024 Page: 3 of12  Escalon resident, Kurt Danziger, expressed appreciation for staff's efforts. He then raised concerns about thej proposed Murphy Ranch project. He encouraged the Council to bej proactive in their support Escalon resident, Gabriella Vargas inquired about the new officer's salary and the possibility of installing flashing lights at the El Portal crosswalk to address speeding issues and pedestrian safety. ChiefofPolice Robert Hardgraves responded, indicating that animal control does not have ai feral cat  ofMeasure P.  She also inquired about progress on the feral cat issues in the community.  trapping program but can provide traps for residents.  PUBLICHEARINGS  6. October Staff Updates Consider. Adopting Resolution No. XX-24 Adopting the 2025 San Joaquin County Multi-Species Habitat Conservation Fee Schedule as Adjusted Pursuant to the Financial Analysis Model for the San Joaquin County Multi-Species Habitat  Conservation and Open Space Plan  City Manager French explained that this fee, managed by the San Joaquin Council of Governments (SJCOG), is applied to development projects and is used toj preserve open space and protect habitats. The fees are reviewed annually; this year, they have decreased by 7.5% due to lower land costs. The fee fluctuates over time based on various factors, and the City handles the collection and coordination  with SJCOG.  Mayor Bellinger opened the public hearing with no comments from the public.  MOTION - Iti is moved/seconded by HAGAN/WALKER to consider adopting Resolution No. 45- 24 adopting the 2025 San Joaquin County multi-species habitat conservation fee schedule as adjusted pursuant to the financial analysis model for the San Joaquin County multi-species habitat conservation and open space plan. Motion carried (5-0) MINUTE ORDER55-24  7. Consider Adopting Resolution No. XX-24 Certifying the Initial Study / Mitigated Negative Declaration (IS/MND) and Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (MMRP) for the City of Escalon Connection to Nick DeGroot Water Treatment Plant Project  City Manager French provided an update on the surface water project, which began in the late 1990s and early 2000s through a partnership between several cities, including Escalon. While the City has secured an allocation of surface water, the conveyance system has not been constructed to transport the water from the treatment plant tol Escalon. The council recently directed staff to apply for ai federal grant to help fund the project, and the grant application has been submitted. The environmental document is ultimately needed to move the project forward and was ai required provision oft the Grant application. If successful with the Grant, the council will revisit the project to determine how to  proceed.    MINUTES Escalon City Council October 21,2024 Page 40 of12  Councilmember Engle inquired about the City's direct obligation to complete this project, and desired furtherinformation on well depths (i.e. the need for surface water) and potential alternative solutions City Manager French outlined the City's general obligation under new State law, the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA) is to manage groundwater sustainability along with other partners in the region, therefore, the City does not have a direct obligation to complete this project, but at some point may be required to address overdraft conditions. This project has been in consideration since the early 2000s and other options have been explored during that time. Councilmember Engle acknowledged that the current item is focused on the environmental aspect needed for potential grant funding and is willing to support that part of the process. He clarified that until additional items are addressed, he cannot support something that may imply favoring the Escalon resident, Kurt Danziger suggested that the council members attend Groundwater Sustainability Agency meetings to better understand relevant issues. He also questioned the cost of the flow box, and the potential for relocating it to save money, as well as the permitting fees through Councilmember Strohman mentioned he spoke with SSJID regarding strict requirements for the placement ofthe flow meter, which must bel located within a specific distance from the water treatment PWSM Juston Collins that the flow box must be located off SSJID's main line for access and ift the flow box is up stream, past the main line, there becomes questions on who maintains the main line. Escalon resident, Gabriella Vargas clarified the cost and logistics of connecting to the surface water system and asked how much money ratepayers have already contributed to the project and how much City Manager French explained the City is expected to collect $10 million by the end of the rate increase period, 10 years, as well as the received and grants that have been awarded or are being reviewed as well as gap financing for the remainder oft the project. He further explained that the City has been awarded a $1.1 million grant, though the funds have not yet been received. The grant was Councilmember Engle asked for clarification on how much money has been contributed to the project Cityl Manager French estimated that thej project account has been funded between $61 to $8 million thus far. FDHRA Celinda Bickner further explained that the current monthly and treasurer reports contain the relevant financial details, including several lines that, when combined, reflect the total funding. Escalon resident, Zach Hogan asked for clarification regarding how an environmental study could be conducted without a finalized plan or scope for components like boxes and flow meters.  advancement oft the overall project.  SSJID.  plant's outfall.  additional funding is required to complete the project.  awarded through Congressman Josh Harder's office.  account to date.    MINUTES Escalon City Council October 21, 2024 Page 5of12  City Manager French responded that the project design is over 60% complete, meaning iti is far enough Councilmember Strohman emphasized that the project is driven by the Sustainable Groundwater MOTION - Iti is moved/seconded by HAGAN/BELLINGER to consider adopting resolution No. 46-24 certifying the initial study/mitigated negative declaration (IS/MND) and mitigation monitoring and reporting program (MMRP) for the City of] Escalon connection to Nick DeGroot Water  along to perform the environmental study, even though it isn't finalized.  Management Act of2014.  Treatment Plant Project. Motion carried (5-0) MINUTE ORDER 56-24  ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS  8. Identify a Program Proposal for the San Joaquin County District Attorney's Asset Forfeiture Grant pert the Agenda Request Item by Councilmember Strohman, supported by Mayor Pro Tem Hagan, and Authorize the City Manager to submit the Application  City Manager French presented the proposal for the San Joaquin County District Attorney's asset forfeiture grant, focusing on youth engagement programs. He mentioned staf carried out Council direction to survey the students in the District to determine how the funds may best be used and Councilmember Engle asked whether Escalon could use 100% of the pass-through funds or if organizations would take a percentage of the funds for administrative costs or other fees required to City Manager French stated that the program development and coordination with providers is not to the point yet to discuss administrative costs and that the item before the Council is to indicate where the monies should be allocated. Staff would then work with the providers on the details, including Mayor Pro Tem Hagan asked if he could require that the funds go directly to their intended purpose Councilmember Engle explained that with pass-through grants, it's typical for a small percentage of the funds to be used for administrative costs, as the organizations still have expenses to cover. Councilmember Strohman asked for clarification on oversight and disbursing grant funds to selected City Manager French suggested entering into a formal agreement and implementing a system for monitoring progress, such as requiring quarterly, monthly, or post-event reports to ensure the Escalon resident, Gabriella Vargas inquired if surveying the students was the prudent move or if  received 406: responses.  run the program.  any administrative costs.  without being used for other costs.  organization.  organization is meeting the terms of the agreement. broader community input would have been better.    MINUTES Escalon City Council October 21,2024 Page 6of12  City Manager French clarified that a survey was conducted through the school district involving 400 students, including elementary students. The input from students was considered, but was balanced Ms. Vargas expressed concerns about the fairness of funding allocation for specific programs, City Manager French noted that all recognize that these program funds cannot reach every student or group but emphasized that it is aj path toj provide healthy interactions for the youth of the community. He expressed a commitment to seeking additional funding to expand programs and include more Mayor Pro Tem Hagan highlighted that the program andi its questions were developed with significant Ms. Varga suggested reconsidering the allocation of funds to possibly create programs that could Mayor Bellinger explained that while it is difficult to benefit every child with the available funds, the Mayor Pro Tem Hagan suggested that finding another grant could help address the needs of children Councilmember Strohman suggested working with the school district and the Boys and Girls Club to open youth excursions and after-school activities to the entire community, not just members. Councilmember Walker suggested directing grants toward smaller, local programs who have difficulty Councilmember Strohman also suggested opening the program to any organization in Escalon that City Manager French supported the ongoing discussion while indicating that the grant is looking to Councilmember Strohman asked for clarification on how staffwould manage the process of targeting Councilmember Strohman suggested that each council member take responsibility for championing a Mayor Pro Tem Hagan doubted whether they had the time to manage a new program in addition to  with requirements oft the grant, as well as council and staffinput.  specifically mentioning the Boys and Girls Club and the Healthy Room project.  groups in the future.  input from the school district.  include children who don't fit into the current categories being served. grant has specific requirements which must be met, which the proposal does.  not benefiting from the current program.  securing funding. works with youth.  fund established and programs to ensure funds are used effectively.  potential programs.  specific program through the process. their current commitments.    MINUTES Escalon City Council October 21,2 2024 Page 7of12  Mayor Bellinger sees opportunities for the Youth Center and Escalon Library to expand beyond after- school activities, suggesting these programs should be left to experts rather than having council The councilmembers generally agree on reallocating funds by reducing the amount for youth Councilmember Engle urged the council to avoid prolonged debate and act quickly to allocate the Councilmember Walker supported splitting the funds but sought clarification on whether each entity City Manager French explained that the district attorney will review the application and likely require clarity on how funds will be used, but that we could outline in the Grant application to provide some Councilmember Walker proposed bundling the funds to allow flexibility across different activities and City Manager French they would contact the Youth Center to assess their programs. Ift their offerings align with the council's direction, they can include this information in the application to ensure MOTION - Iti is moved/seconded by WALKER/HAGAN to identify aj program proposal for the San Joaquin County District Attorney's asset forfeiture grant. Motion carried (5-0) MINUTE ORDER 9. Consider the Recreation Commission's Recommendation on a Proposed Approach for the Escalon Baseball/Softball Recreation Program per the Agenda Request Item by Mayor Pro  members champion them directly.  excursions and increasing funding for after-school activities. funds SO children can benefit from the programs.  must use the allocated amounts exclusively for the specified purposes.  flexibility in their use, based on the recommendations oft the chosen providers.  asked ift this approach was feasible.  consistency with council goals.  57-24  Tem Hagan and Councilmember Walker  City Manager French presented the recommendation on a new youth program proposal focused on restructuring Escalon's city-run youth baseball and softball program. This proposal, initiated by Mayor Pro Tem Hagan and Councilmember Walker, aims to bolster thej program with the help of consultant Todd Davis, who would provide coaching and skills clinics as well as resources for volunteer coaches Mayor Bellinger sought clarification on whether the proposed restructured youth baseball and softball program will remain inclusive, ensuring that no child is turned away based on skill level. Todd Davis confirmed that, currently, every child who signs up is placed on a team, regardless of ability. The only restriction would bet the capacity ofavailable fields inl Escalon, which could limit the  and children.  number of] participants ifi registrations exceed field resources.    MINUTES Escalon City Council October 21,2024 Page 8of12  Councilmember Walker asked ift the board would determine the proposed cost of the program based Todd Davis explained that the current cost for umpires and uniforms varies depending on the quality and items provided. The final program cost will depend on the number oft teams and players, uniform Mayor Bellinger asked if the City currently subsidizes the baseball and softball programs and is City Manager French explained that the baseball and softball programs cost a total of $65,000 last season, including staff time, overhead, and direct costs. With $39,000 in revenue collected, the City Mayor Bellinger expressed concerns about proceeding with: ai new board-led baseball program without Todd Davis advocated for continued City involvement in overseeing the new baseball program to Councilmember Strohman asked Mr. Davis and staffift they followed through on aj plan mentioned at the community meeting to send a survey via Blue Sombrero regarding the potential cost increase that City Manager French clarified that the group decided not to initiate a survey sO as not to unnecessarily delay the process; however, staff used the system to inform everyone about the upcoming recreation Mayor Pro Tem Hagan noted that scholarships and: financial support from Escalon Strong are available Todd Davis clarified that, except for Westport and Waterford (which lack lights), all other schools schedule games at 5:30 PM: for younger players, addressing council concerns about younger children Mayor Bellinger asked about the league's start and end dates and the estimated timing oft the first game. Todd Davis stated the league season starts in March and ends before Memorial Dayi in May. Todd Davis addressed concerns about the softball program, noting that Elizabeth Hill, a coach for girls' softball at Modesto Christian and owner of the Hall of Fame Academy, will handle the girls' Councilmember Strohman asks ift the selection process would follow the same format as other  on their decisions regarding factors like the type of uniforms and umpires chosen.  quality, and whether professional or student umpires are used.  seeking a general estimate or' "ballpark" figure for how much the City contributes.  subsidized approximately $25,000.  citizens knowing the potential costs for their children to participate.  manage costs effectively, aj priority from the outset.  Mayor Bellinger noted.  meetings.  for families needing assistance with program costs.  playing late. Only older age groups (13-14) play at 7:301 PM on fields with lights.  softball training. commissions.    MINUTES Escalon City Council October 21, 2024 Page 9 of12  Mayor Pro Tem Hagan suggested that the council would set up the first board, with parents  potentially voting in future members.  Councilmember Strohman asked about the commitment from Escalon High.  Mayor Pro Tem Hagan mentioned that the high school boys and girls teams will help with clinics Todd Davis confirmed that the rec program will continue on Saturday mornings for younger Escalon resident, Peter Krumeich raised concerns about the cost increase and travel distance for rec Escalon resident, Gabriella Vargas wondered ift there was a San Joaquin County league, and discussed the importance ofk keeping the rec program developmental for younger kids.  and foster community bonds.  children. programs.  Escalon resident, Dan Bauer suggested that the rec program focus on skills development for younger children and emphasized the need for community cohesion and the importance ofhaving a rec program. He further expressed concerns about the rushed timeline and the potential impact on Escalon resident, Kayla Jefferson appreciates the ideas to improve the program, but outlined potential concerns with the proposed program, including coaches not being able to coach multiple teams due to the travel, as well as the cost increase. Any cost increase should go toward skills development. She then suggested aj pilot year to build the program and provide clinics for coaches Escalon resident, Casey Silva appreciates the ideas fori improving the program and the community conversation. The need to support coaches is very important as this is an annual challenge of the Escalon resident, Matt Showalter inquired about details oft the proposal including schedule and cost, Escalon resident, Kayla Swanson was supportive of the proposal as the lack of competition in the Escalon resident, Zach Hogan was supportive of the idea and acknowledged there may be some challenges associated with the change, but that those are normal. He also indicated he is aware of many in the community that would support programs like this financially ifneeded. Mayor Bellinger asked Todd Davis ifhe could be successful with the tight timeline, to which Mr.  families.  and skills clinics.  program. She urged the community to not delay the decision making process.  which were answered.  league forces kids to seek other alternative playing options.  Davis indicated he thought he could.    MINUTES Escalon City Council October 21,2024 Page 10 of12  Councilmember Walker acknowledged that the planning had been ongoing since the spring of the previous year, with significant community outreach and engagement and noted that these meetings Councilmember Stroman asked the City Attoreyifissuing: al Request forl Proposals (RFP)isnecessary City Attorney clarified that there is no legal requirement to issue an RFP in this case, as the procurement policy and state law mandate it only for specific contracts, such as public works projects. Councilmember Stroman appreciated the efforts to improve the program but noted concern about the rushed timeline to meet the Noyember-December deadline. He suggested establishing a board in the 2024-2025 season to set league rules, generate community interest, and decide to join the county  have helped refine the program. for the baseball and softball programs.  league.  Mayor Pro Tem Hagan was open to a gradual implementation.  Councilmember Walker highlighted the need to continue working with Todd Davis for skills clinics. Past efforts over at least four years, both on the council and Recreation Commission, have struggled Councilmember Strohman suggested joining the county league under City management for one year without forming a board immediately. This would allow the community to experience the league and Todd Davis proposed that if the City joins the county league without forming a board, they could simplify costs by only paying him to run clinics and training camps. They would also act as liaisons, Councilmember Walker supported keeping Citys subsidies for at least the first year and wished toi retain sponsorship and advertising responsibilities within the program rather than placing this burden on coaches. While she acknowledged that other leagues may involve parents more directly, she would preferag gradual approach withouti initially adding too many responsibilities toj parents. She also prefers retaining professional umpire services, noting that high school umpires can sometimes struggle with specific rules, particularly in softball, leading to inconsistencies and game challenges. Todd Davis stressed the importance ofinvolving parents and prospective coaches in the kids' clinics, encouraging them to assist and observe, which can introduce new coaching techniques. Councilmember Walker suggested hiring Todd Davis as an administrator while remaining in the Councilmember Strohman recommended that Mr. Davis provide a detailed list of charges for each service he offers. This list would be presented to the council, allowing them to collaboratively decide which services to request from Todd. Thus, a clear plan for the 2024-2025 program would be created.  to address ongoing issues.  provide feedback.  attending league meetings to reduce the City's involvement.  current league.    MINUTES Escalon City Council October 21,2 2024 Page 11 of12  Mayor Pro Tem Hagan motioned toj postpone the decision until the next council meeting on November 4th. This delay would allow time to finalize pricing updates and prepare for sign-ups while meeting Councilmember Walker wanted to establish an external advisory board but not by the November deadline. Instead, the aim would be toi form thel board during the season as part oft the ongoing process. Unless anyone objected, City Attorney Frank Splendorio suggested moving forward based on the  the mid-November timeline.  general consensus reached during the discussion.  Mayor Pro Tem Hagan withdrew his motion and the council moved to the next item.  10. Consider Designating Field B of] Hogan-Ennis Park as the Greg Largent Field per the. Agenda Request Item by Mayor Pro Tem Hagan, supported by Councilmember Engle. Mayor Pro Tem Hagan shared that thel Hogan family agrees toi name a field after thel late Greg Largent, a significant figure in the local baseball and softball community. The intent is to honor his legacy Councilmember Walker expressed admiration for Mr. Largent, highlighting his impact on the high  meaningfully.  school baseball field and the community.  Mayor Pro Tem supports the idea of renaming the field after Mr. Largent.  Escalon resident, Danny Fox suggested including the number nine in the sign or wording to honor MOTION -I Iti is moved/seconded by HAGAN/BELLINGER to consider designating Field B of Hogan-Ennis Park as the Greg Largent Field. Motion carried (5-0) MINUTE ORDER 58-24  Greg's jersey number.  COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS  Councilmember Strohman thanked community members for feedback on the baseball and softball City Attorney Frank Splendorio clarified that, by state law, the council is prohibited from advocating for or against ai measure during council meetings. He directed the public to the City's website, where Councilmember Walker emphasized the importance of community members voting based on their  programs. He also briefly addressed Measure P.  educational and informational materials on the measure are available.  opinions.  CLOSED SESSION- None    MINUTES Escalon City Council October 21, 2024 Page 12 of12  ADJOURMMENT  Mayor Bellinger adjourned the meeting at 10:08 pm.  ResperfilySubmited, Jaylen French, City Manager