Avenal public meetings in 2022

City Council/Successor Agency/Public Finance Authority

The Avenal City Council will meet to certify the November 8, 2022 election results, administer oaths to re-elected members, and consider extending two local emergency declarations. The consent calendar includes accepting a $158,673 tobacco grant and a $90,000 UC Davis animal grant, plus creating a part-time Community Services Officer position. The council will also discuss creating a Finance Manager position and authorizing agreements for the new 1% Measure A transactions and use tax.

• Resolution 2022-67 accepting November 8, 2022 election results
• Resolution 2022-62 accepting $158,673 tobacco grant (DOJ-PROP56-2022-23-1)
• Resolution 2022-64 accepting $90,000 UC Davis animal grant (UCD #A67065)
• Resolution 2022-63 creating part-time Community Services Officer under Police Department
• Consider extending local emergencies declared March 24, 2020 and May 27, 2021

The City Council certified the November 8, 2022, election results and seated Mayor Alvaro Preciado and Mayor Pro Tem Alejandro Ramirez. The council approved a $336,050 contract for the Safe Route to School project on State Route 269 and authorized new local tax agreements. Several emergency declarations regarding COVID-19 and water shortages were extended for 60 days.

• Approved $336,050 contract with Harris Development Corp for SR 269 Safe Route to School project (5-0)
• Certified November 8, 2022, municipal election results (5-0)
• Appointed Alvaro Preciado as Mayor and Alejandro Ramirez as Mayor Pro Tem
• Authorized City Manager to execute Measure A local transactions and use tax agreements (5-0)
• Approved $158,673 in tobacco grant funds and creation of a Community Services Officer position (5-0)
• Ratified $90,000 UC Davis grant agreement for animals (5-0)
• Extended COVID-19 and severe water shortage local emergency declarations by 60 days (5-0)
• Authorized recording of 2007 agreement with Avenal Sand Drags (5-0)

Planning Commission

The Avenal Planning Commission is holding a regular meeting with a workshop on the Comprehensive Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance Update. The workshop is informational only, with no action expected. No new business or public hearings are scheduled.

• Workshop on Comprehensive Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance Update (informational, no action)
• Approval of minutes from October 3, 2022
• Public comment period (3 minutes per person)

City Council/Successor Agency/Public Finance Authority

The City Council authorized the purchase of two electric vehicle charging stations and applied for a supplemental grant. The council also extended local emergency declarations for COVID-19 and severe water shortage.

• Approved purchase of two EV charging stations from BEAM Global for $150,148.00 (5-0)
• Approved grant application to San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District Charge-Up program (5-0)
• Extended COVID-19 local emergency declaration by 60 days (4-1)
• Extended severe water shortage local emergency declaration by 60 days (5-0)
• Approved minutes from October 13, 2022 (4-0, 1 abstain)

City Council/Successor Agency/Public Finance Authority

The City Council adopted the FY 2022-2023 city budget (Resolution 2022-54) and approved changes to the fee/charge schedule (Resolution 2022-55). The Council also adopted the Successor Agency/RDA Debt Obligation Fund budget (SA Resolution 2022-02) and the Public Financing Authority budget (PFA Resolution 2022-02). All four budget-related resolutions passed 4-0 with one absent. The Council extended the local emergency declarations for COVID-19 (4-1, Gravelle opposed) and severe water shortage (4-0).

• Adopted FY 2022-2023 City Budget (Resolution 2022-54) — 4-0
• Approved changes to fee/charge schedule (Resolution 2022-55) — 4-0
• Adopted Successor Agency/RDA Debt Obligation Fund FY 2022-2023 budget (SA Resolution 2022-02) — 4-0
• Adopted Public Financing Authority FY 2022-2023 budget (PFA Resolution 2022-02) — 4-0
• Extended local emergency declaration for COVID-19 — 3-1 (Gravelle opposed)
• Extended local emergency declaration for severe water shortage — 4-0
• Authorized City Manager to sign letter of support for Westlands Water District desalination grant — 4-0
• Recognized and inaugurated Rotary Pop-Up Park at 253 E. Kings Street (Resolution 2022-56) — 4-0

Planning Commission

The Avenal Planning Commission will hold a workshop on the Comprehensive Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance Update, with discussion and comments only and no action expected. The meeting also includes the swearing-in of a new commissioner and approval of prior minutes. No new business or public hearings are scheduled.

• Comprehensive Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance Update workshop (informational, no action)
• Swearing-in of new Commissioner Sergio Ramirez
• Approval of September 12, 2022 minutes

Planning Commission

The Avenal Planning Commission is holding a regular meeting with a workshop on the Comprehensive Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance Update, presented by QK. This item is informational only, with no action expected. No new business or public hearings are scheduled.

• Comprehensive Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance Update Workshop (informational, no action)
• Approval of minutes from August 8, 2022 special meeting
• Economic/Community Development Activity Update

City Council/Successor Agency/Public Finance Authority

The Avenal City Council continued the FY 2022/2023 budget public hearing to September 22, 2022, as staff works with the new police chief. The council also extended two local emergencies: the COVID-19 emergency (originally declared March 24, 2020) and the severe water shortage emergency (declared May 27, 2021), each for 60 days. Consent calendar items were approved, including ratification of the police chief employment agreement and economic relief stipends for city employees.

• Continued FY 2022/2023 budget public hearing to September 22, 2022 (3-0)
• Extended COVID-19 local emergency for 60 days (3-0)
• Extended severe water shortage local emergency for 60 days (3-0)
• Approved consent calendar including minutes, ordinance amendments, and police chief agreement (unanimous)
• Ratified Resolution 2022-49 adopting ordinance on violations/penalties (3-0)
• Ratified Resolution 2022-50 entering into agreement with Chief Robert A. Nevarez (3-0)
• Ratified Resolution 2022-51 approving economic relief stipend to city employees (3-0)
• Ratified Resolution 2022-52 approving economic relief stipend to city manager (3-0)

City Council/Successor Agency/Public Finance Authority

The Avenal City Council, Successor Agency, and Public Finance Authority will hold a joint public hearing to consider and potentially approve the proposed FY 2022-23 budgets for the city, the Successor Agency/RDA Debt Obligation Fund, and the Public Finance Authority. The city budget includes fees and charges, and funding requests. The meeting is a study session and budget hearing workshop.

• Proposed FY 2022-23 City Budget and Fees & Charges, approval by resolution
• Proposed FY 2022-23 Successor Agency/RDA Debt Obligation Fund Budget, approval by resolution
• Proposed FY 2022-23 Public Finance Authority Budget, approval by resolution
• Community Development budget increases from $277,000 to $317,300, including engineering services up to $90,000
• Building Department budget increases from $34,900 to $159,500, including professional services up to $60,000

The council voted unanimously to continue the joint public hearing on the FY 2022/2023 city budget, Successor Agency RDA Trust Obligations Fund budget, and Public Finance Authority budget to a special meeting on August 11, 2022, with tentative dates of September 1 and September 27. No substantive decisions were made on the budgets themselves.

• Continued joint public hearing on FY 2022/2023 budgets to August 11, 2022 (5-0)

City Council/Successor Agency/Public Finance Authority

The Avenal City Council, Successor Agency, and Public Finance Authority will hold public hearings and consider approving the FY 2022/2023 budgets for the city, the Successor Agency/RDA Debt Obligation Fund, and the PFA, including fees and charges. They will also consider a one-year fire services agreement with Kings County Fire Department, extending two local emergencies, amending a CDBG grant agreement, authorizing a lease with Spectrum Pacific West, LLC, and an ordinance on code violations. The meeting includes closed session discussions on anticipated litigation and labor negotiations.

• Public hearing and approval of FY 2022/2023 City Budget and Fees & Charges
• Resolution 2022-46: One-year Fire Services Agreement with Kings County Fire Department
• Resolution 2022-47: Amend 16-CDBG-11133 grant to allocate CDBG Program Income to Community Sports and Recreation Center
• Resolution 2022-48: Authorize lease agreement with Spectrum Pacific West, LLC
• Ordinance 2022-04: Amending code sections on violations, notices, and penalties

The Avenal City Council approved the consent calendar, including a one-year fire services agreement with Kings County, and ratified budget resolutions. They continued the FY 2022/23 budget public hearing to August 3, 2022, and extended local emergencies for COVID-19 and severe water shortage. The council also approved resolutions amending the CDBG grant for the Community Sports and Recreation Center and authorizing a lease with Spectrum Pacific West, LLC.

• Approved consent calendar including fire services agreement with Kings County (Resolution 2022-46) (4-0, Hernandez absent)
• Ratified Resolution 2022-44 (End of Year Budget Revisions) and 2022-45 (FY 2022-2023 Appropriations Limits) (4-0, Hernandez absent)
• Continued FY 2022/23 budget public hearing to August 3, 2022, at 5:00 p.m. (4-0, Hernandez absent)
• Extended local emergency for COVID-19 by 60 days (4-0, Hernandez absent)
• Extended local emergency for severe water shortage by 60 days (4-0, Hernandez absent)
• Approved Resolution 2022-47 amending CDBG grant to allocate additional program income to Community Sports and Recreation Center (4-0, Hernandez absent)
• Authorized City Manager to enter lease agreement with Spectrum Pacific West, LLC (Resolution 2022-48) (4-0, Hernandez absent)
• Approved first reading of Ordinance 2022-06 and Resolution 2022-49 on water conservation fines (4-0, Hernandez absent)

Planning Commission

The Avenal Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider Tentative Tract Map No. 21-01 and Variance No. 21-01, a proposal by Oasis Valley No 1 LLC to divide 24.63 acres into 111 single-family residential lots, plus a stormwater basin and pocket park, north of San Benito Street and west of 'A' Avenue. The commission will also discuss an economic development update and a zoning ordinance update. The agenda includes approval of prior meeting minutes and public comment.

• Tentative Tract Map No. 21-01: 111 single-family lots on 24.63 acres, APN 038-270-066
• Variance No. 21-01: reduce minimum lot width to 50 feet and lot size to 5,000 sq ft for 15% of lots
• Mitigated Negative Declaration under CEQA with mitigation measures (lighting, dust, archaeological finds)
• Public hearing and potential action on the subdivision and variance
• Discussion of Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance Comprehensive Update (QK)

City Council/Successor Agency/Public Finance Authority

The Avenal City Council, Successor Agency, and Public Finance Authority will hold a joint public hearing to consider adopting interim operating budgets for FY 2022-23, as final budgets are still under review. Staff recommends continuing the hearing, adopting the interim budgets by resolution, and revisiting the budgets in the first quarter of the fiscal year. The council will also consider year-end budget revisions for FY 2021-22 and an appropriations limit for FY 2022-23.

• Public hearing and resolution to adopt FY 2022/23 City Budget and Fees & Charges (no new fees proposed)
• Resolution to adopt FY 2022/23 Successor Agency/RDA Debt Obligation Fund budget
• Resolution to adopt FY 2022/23 Public Finance Authority (PFA) budget
• Resolution authorizing City Manager to amend FY 2021/22 budget for year-end revisions
• Consideration of FY 2022/23 Appropriations Limit under Article XIII B

The City Council, acting jointly as the Successor Agency and Public Finance Authority, approved interim operating budgets for FY 2022-23 to cover payroll and expenses until final budgets are adopted. It also authorized the City Manager to make year-end budget revisions for FY 2021-22 and set the FY 2022-23 appropriations limit at $4,111,785.49. All votes were unanimous (4-0) with Mayor Pro Tem Ramirez absent.

• Approved Resolution 2022-43 for interim FY 2022/2023 operating budget (4-0)
• Approved Resolution 2022-01 (SA/RDA) for interim FY 2022/2023 Successor Agency budget (4-0)
• Approved Resolution for interim FY 2022/2023 PFA budget (4-0)
• Approved Resolution 2022-44 authorizing City Manager to amend FY 2020-2021 budget (4-0)
• Approved Resolution 2022-45 establishing FY 2022-23 appropriations limit of $4,111,785.49 (4-0)

City Council/Successor Agency/Public Finance Authority

The Avenal City Council will hold a public hearing on proposed water and sewer rate increases for fiscal years 2023-2027, then consider adopting ordinances for a one-cent general sales tax and a business tax on commercial cannabis businesses. The council will also vote on extending two local emergencies, including one related to water conservation, and establishing an unpaid internship position. A budget workshop for FY 2022-2023 is scheduled before the regular meeting.

• Public hearing on water and wastewater utility rate increases for FY 2023-2027 (Resolution 2022-38)
• Ordinance 2022-04 and Resolution 2022-40: enacting a one-cent general sales tax
• Ordinance 2022-05 and Resolution 2022-41: imposing a business tax on commercial cannabis businesses
• Resolution 2022-39: extending local emergency declared May 27, 2021, and amending Tier III water conservation rules
• Resolution 2022-42: establishing one unpaid internship position at City Hall

The City Council approved a resolution increasing water and wastewater utility rates effective July 1, 2022, and adopted ordinances and resolutions to place a one-cent general sales tax and a commercial cannabis business tax on the November 2022 ballot. The council also extended local emergencies for COVID-19 and severe water shortage, adopting amended Tier III water conservation measures with a two-day watering schedule and increased fines. Additionally, the council authorized the City Manager to negotiate a contract for an interim police chief and established an unpaid internship position.

• Approved Resolution 2022-38 increasing water and sewer rates effective July 1, 2022 (4-0, Verdugo absent)
• Adopted Ordinance 2022-04 and Resolution 2022-40 placing a 1-cent general sales tax on Nov 2022 ballot (4-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 2022-05 and Resolution 2022-41 placing a cannabis business tax on Nov 2022 ballot (4-0)
• Approved Resolution 2022-39 extending water shortage emergency and amending Tier III conservation rules (4-0)
• Extended local emergency for COVID-19 (Resolution 2022-38? actually motion) (4-0)
• Authorized City Manager to contract with an interim police chief (4-0)
• Established one unpaid/volunteer internship position (Resolution 2022-42) (4-0)
• Approved consent calendar including Resolution 2022-37 for county clerk election services (4-0)

City Council/Successor Agency/Public Finance Authority

The City Council and Successor Agency will meet in closed session to review the performance of several public employees. This includes evaluations for various department directors, supervisors, and managers.

• Performance evaluation for City Manager
• Performance evaluation for Public Works Director
• Performance evaluation for Community & Economic Development Director
• Performance evaluation for Director of Administrative Services
• Performance evaluation for Police Captain

City Council/Successor Agency/Public Finance Authority

The Avenal City Council will hold a public hearing to consider the 2022 Community Development Block Grant application, approve Economic Development Business Assistance and Microenterprise Guidelines, and close out the 20-CDBG-CV1-0055 grant. The council will also discuss extending two local emergencies, set dates for FY 2022-2023 budget hearings, and hear a presentation on new revenue sources. A closed session is scheduled for anticipated litigation and a performance evaluation of the City Manager.

• Public hearing on 2022 CDBG grant application and approval of Economic Development Business Assistance and Microenterprise Guidelines
• Closeout of 20-CDBG-CV1-0055 grant
• Consider extending local emergency declared March 24, 2020
• Consider extending local emergency declared May 27, 2021
• Presentation to identify new revenue sources

The City Council directed staff to prepare ordinances for the November 2022 ballot, including a general sales tax and a broad cannabis business tax (covering cultivation and dispensaries). The council also approved the 2022 CDBG grant application, adopted program guidelines, and extended two local emergencies (COVID-19 and severe water shortage) by 60 days. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved consent calendar including minutes and out-of-state travel requests (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 2022-35 for 2022 CDBG grant application (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 2022-36 adopting CDBG Business Assistance and Microenterprise Guidelines (5-0)
• Extended local emergency for COVID-19 by 60 days (5-0)
• Extended local emergency for severe water shortage by 60 days (5-0)
• Directed staff to draft ordinances for general sales tax and broad cannabis tax for November ballot (no formal vote)

City Council/Successor Agency/Public Finance Authority

The Avenal City Council/Successor Agency/PFA will meet to discuss and potentially act on several items, including extending two local emergency declarations, establishing two summer internship positions, and considering construction bids for the 18-inch water transmission pipeline replacement project. The agenda also includes a status report on the police chief recruitment process and a discussion on properties zoned for commercial and industrial uses. A closed session is scheduled for anticipated litigation and labor negotiations.

• Consider construction bids for 18'' Water Transmission Pipeline Replacement project
• Consider extending local emergency declared March 24, 2020
• Consider extending local emergency declared May 27, 2021
• Consider establishing two summer internship positions within City Hall
• Status report on Chief of Police recruitment process

The City Council approved a resolution authorizing the City Manager to enter into an agreement with Specialty Construction Inc. for the 18-inch water transmission pipeline replacement project at a cost not to exceed $6,419,602. The project, funded by Prop 1 grant from the State Water Resources Control Board, will replace approximately 3.17 miles of pipeline from Interstate 5 to Tank #3. The council also approved two summer internship positions (one funded, one contingent on funding) and extended local emergencies for COVID-19 and severe water shortage by 60 days.

• Approved Resolution 2022-34 authorizing agreement with Specialty Construction Inc. for $6,419,602 water pipeline project (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 2022-33 establishing two summer internship positions, one funded and one contingent on funding (4-1, Verdugo no)
• Extended local emergency for COVID-19 by 60 days (5-0)
• Extended local emergency for severe water shortage by 60 days (5-0)
• Approved consent calendar including minutes of May 12, 2022 (5-0)

City Council/Successor Agency/Public Finance Authority

The Avenal City Council will hold a regular meeting with a closed session on anticipated litigation. The council will consider consent items including a military equipment policy for the police department, a labor compliance agreement for a pipeline project, and a temporary easement for PG&E. They will also discuss extending two local emergency declarations, authorizing an audit services contract, and creating two summer internships.

• Ordinance 2022-03: Military Use Equipment Policy for Avenal Police Department (AB 481)
• Resolution 2022-29: Agreement with R.L. Hastings & Associates for labor compliance monitoring on 18-inch transmission pipeline
• Resolution 2022-31: Temporary construction easement to PG&E for gas pipeline replacement at City Corporal Yard
• Extend local emergency declared March 24, 2020
• Extend local emergency declared May 27, 2021

The Avenal City Council approved a resolution authorizing the City Manager and Mayor to execute an engagement letter with Price Paige & Company for audit preparation and financial consulting services, totaling $184,610. The council also approved the consent calendar, including a military equipment use policy for the police department, and extended two local emergencies (COVID-19 and severe water shortage) by 60 days. A proposal to establish two summer internship positions was tabled until the next meeting.

• Approved $184,610 financial consulting contract with Price Paige & Company (4-1)
• Approved consent calendar including labor compliance monitoring agreement (5-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 2022-03: Military Equipment Use Policy for Police Department (5-0)
• Approved temporary construction easement to PG&E for gas pipeline replacement (5-0)
• Proclaimed May 2022 as Community Action Month (5-0)
• Extended local emergency for COVID-19 by 60 days (5-0)
• Extended local emergency for severe water shortage by 60 days (5-0)
• Tabled summer internship program proposal

City Council/Successor Agency/Public Finance Authority

The Avenal City Council will hold a public hearing on a proposed military equipment use policy for the police department, required by Assembly Bill 481. The council will also discuss water and wastewater rate studies, extend local emergencies, and consider several contracts and capital expenditures.

• Public hearing on AB 481 military equipment use policy for Avenal Police Department (Resolution 2022-25, Ordinance 2022-03)
• Continued water and wastewater rates study for FY 2023-2027 in preparation for Proposition 218 process
• Consider extending local emergencies declared March 24, 2020 and May 27, 2021
• Approve Change Order No. 3 with Kuykendall Solar for solar PV system at WWTF (Resolution 2022-26)
• Approve capital expenditure from Wastewater Enterprise Fund for 18" Whitney Street sewer pipeline project (Resolution 2022-28)

The Avenal City Council approved a resolution and introduced an ordinance establishing a military equipment use policy for the police department, as required by state law AB481. The council also approved several other items, including resolutions for road projects, electrical work, a solar project change order, and a sewer pipeline project. The council extended two local emergencies related to COVID-19 and a severe water shortage.

• Approved Resolution 2022-25 and introduced Ordinance 2022-03 for military equipment use policy (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 2022-23 adopting SB 1 road project list (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 2022-24 authorizing agreement with Trull Electric for electrical work (5-0)
• Approved warrants and financial statements for September 2021 (5-0, with abstentions on specific warrants)
• Approved Resolution 2022-26 approving Change Order No. 3 for solar project at WWTF ($188,340) (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 2022-27 authorizing amendment with O'Dell Engineering for Avenal Kids Park design (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 2022-28 authorizing $150,000 expenditure for Whitney Street sewer pipeline (5-0)
• Extended local emergencies for COVID-19 and severe water shortage (5-0 each)

City Council/Successor Agency/Public Finance Authority

The City Council will hold a study session to consider suspending, modifying, or repealing Ordinance 2020-07 regarding face coverings. The agenda also includes discussions on extending previous local emergency declarations and reviewing new policies for military use equipment.

• Study Session: Discussion on Ordinance 2020-07 Regarding Face Coverings
• Discussion on extending Local Emergency declared March 24, 2020
• Discussion on extending Local Emergency declared May 27, 2021
• Review of Assembly Bill 481 regarding Military Use Equipment
• Consider quotes and vendor approval for Veterans Memorial Hall generator installation

The Avenal City Council voted 3-2 to extend the local COVID-19 emergency declaration and discontinue enforcement of mask mandates. The council also approved a consent calendar including minutes and a UC Davis animal grant agreement, and authorized a $21,925 generator installation contract for Veterans Memorial Hall. No public hearings were held, and the council agreed to schedule a public hearing on a military equipment policy for the next meeting.

• Extended COVID-19 local emergency and discontinued mask mandate enforcement (3-2)
• Extended severe water shortage local emergency (5-0)
• Approved consent calendar including minutes and UC Davis animal grant agreement (5-0)
• Authorized $21,925 generator installation contract with Trull Electric Inc. (5-0)
• Ratified opening a claim with RMA (5-0)
• Agreed to notice public hearing on military equipment policy for next meeting

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission meeting scheduled for April 4, 2022, has been canceled due to a lack of agenda items. The next meeting is scheduled for May 2, 2022.

City Council/Successor Agency/Public Finance Authority

The City Council will review a study for water and wastewater rates for fiscal years 2023-2027. The meeting also includes discussions on council ethics, local emergency extensions, and potential changes to backyard chicken regulations in R-1 zones.

• Initial presentation of Water and Wastewater Rates Study (FY 2023-2027)
• Public hearing regarding 10% retention for Seventh Avenue, Whitney Street, and 18" Sewer projects
• Discussion on extending local emergencies declared in March 2020 and May 2021
• Review of Council Ethics & Values with City Manager Antony V. López
• Review of TTHM Letter Noncompliance

The City Council approved four resolutions to withhold 10% retention on construction projects, including the Seventh Avenue Street Project, Community Building Project, Whitney Street Sewer Pipeline, and 18-inch Sewer Replacement Pipeline. The council also extended two local emergencies (COVID-19 and severe water shortage) and agreed to collaborate with Valley Voices for a candidates' night. No substantive decisions were made on the water/wastewater rate study, which was informational only.

• Approved Resolution 2022-17 for 10% retention on Seventh Avenue Street Project (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 2022-18 for 10% retention on Community Building Project (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 2022-19 for 10% retention on Whitney Street Sewer Pipeline and Manhole Projects (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 2022-20 for 10% retention on 18-inch Sewer Replacement Pipeline and Manhole Projects (5-0)
• Extended local emergency for COVID-19 by 60 days (4-1, Gravelle no)
• Extended local emergency for severe water shortage by 60 days (5-0)
• Consensus to collaborate with Valley Voices for candidates' night at Avenal Theater
• Consensus to hold a study session on Council Ethics & Values

City Council/Successor Agency/Public Finance Authority

The Avenal City Council will meet to consider extending two local emergency declarations, discuss a zoning ordinance regarding chickens in R-1 zones, and receive an informational report on Assembly Bill 481. The consent calendar includes approval of minutes, an ordinance amendment, a water pump repair expenditure, and a transportation fund claim. A closed session is scheduled for anticipated litigation.

• Extend local emergency declared March 24, 2020
• Extend local emergency declared May 27, 2021
• Discussion of zoning ordinance 9.10.6 D on poultry in R-1 zone
• Repair Lift Pump No. 1 at Water Treatment Plant No. 2
• Report on Assembly Bill 481 by APD Captain (Interim) Kevin Carr

The City Council approved the consent calendar, including ordinance 2022-01 amending personnel rules and resolution 2022-16 authorizing a police MOU with Flock Group. They also extended two local emergencies (COVID-19 and severe water shortage) by 60 days each, and agreed to hold a town hall to gather public input on allowing chickens in R-1 zones.

• Approved consent calendar including Ordinance 2022-01 (personnel rules) and Resolution 2022-16 (police MOU with Flock Group) (4-0)
• Extended COVID-19 local emergency for 60 days (3-1, Gravelle dissenting)
• Extended severe water shortage local emergency for 60 days (4-0)
• Agreed to hold a town hall on backyard chickens in R-1 zones (4-0)

City Council/Successor Agency/Public Finance Authority

The Avenal City Council will discuss updating the city's personnel system and reintroducing 'Chat with Council' Q&A sessions. The agenda also includes decisions on extending local emergencies declared in 2020 and 2021.

• Ordinance 2022-01: Amending rules for appointments and the personnel system
• Resolution 2022-12: Authorizing a data sharing MOU with Flock Group, Inc.
• Resolution 2022-13: Amending the Police Captain job description
• Resolution 2022-14: Amending the MOU with Avenal Police Officer’s Association
• Extension of local emergencies declared on March 24, 2020, and May 27, 2021

City Council/Successor Agency/Public Finance Authority

The Avenal City Council, Successor Agency, and Public Finance Authority will meet to discuss and act on several items, including a request from the City of Coalinga to transfer surplus water allocation, extending two local emergency declarations, and approving resolutions authorizing the city manager to submit grants and sign contracts. The meeting also includes a closed session for pending litigation and labor negotiations, and a presentation on new police surveillance cameras.

• Consider request from City of Coalinga to transfer surplus water allocation
• Resolution 2022-09: Authorize City Manager to submit grants with CalRecycle
• Resolution 2022-10: Authorize City Manager to sign CALNET contracts with Verizon
• Resolution 2022-11: Delegate authority to City Manager for industrial disability claims
• Extend local emergencies declared March 24, 2020 and May 27, 2021

The Avenal City Council authorized the City Manager to transfer any unused 2021-2022 water allocation to the City of Coalinga, which faces a deficit. The council also approved consent items, renewed local emergencies for COVID-19 and severe water shortage, and received reports on new surveillance cameras and other activities.

• Authorized transfer of excess water allocation to Coalinga (5-0)
• Approved consent calendar including minutes and resolutions 2022-09, 2022-10, 2022-11 (5-0)
• Renewed local emergency for COVID-19 for 60 days (5-0)
• Renewed local emergency for severe water shortage for 30 days (5-0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will swear in two new commissioners and hold elections for Chairperson and Vice Chairperson for the 2022-2023 term. The body will also move to formally adopt bylaws previously approved by the City Council.

• Swearing-in of new Commissioners Amado Cervantes and Tyler Naranjo
• Election of Chairperson and Vice Chairperson for Jan 2022 – Jan 2023
• Formal adoption of Planning Commission By-laws (Resolution 2022-07)
• Discussion of legislative updates from the City Attorney’s Office
• Economic/Community Development Activity Update

Recreation Commission

The commission will receive updates on recreation department programs including Karate, Zumba, and Fit to Succeed. The meeting also includes discussions regarding upcoming events and the community garden.

• Updates on Karate Class, Zumba, and Fit to Succeed programs
• Discussion of Winter Flea Market and Dinner and Movie Night
• Discussion regarding Community Garden

City Council/Successor Agency/Public Finance Authority

The Avenal City Council will consider ratifying Resolution 2022-06 to establish four new employment positions (two in the Police Department and two in City Hall), extending two local emergencies declared in 2020 and 2021, adopting Planning Commission by-laws, and authorizing the City Manager to sign a letter of commitment for a backup power research project. The meeting also includes appointments to two vacant Planning Commission seats and a presentation on the Kings Regional Vision.

• Ratify Resolution 2022-06 establishing two Police Department and two City Hall positions
• Extend local emergency declared March 24, 2020
• Extend local emergency declared May 27, 2021
• Adopt by-laws for the Avenal Planning Commission (Resolution 2022-07)
• Authorize City Manager to sign letter of commitment for GFO-21-303 Vehicle-to-Building Technologies research project (Resolution 2022-08)

The Avenal City Council unanimously approved extending the local COVID-19 emergency for 60 days and the severe water shortage emergency for 30 days. It also adopted Resolution 2022-07 establishing bylaws for the Planning Commission and Resolution 2022-08 authorizing the City Manager to sign a letter of commitment for a vehicle-to-building backup power research grant. Two new Planning Commission members were appointed.

• Extended COVID-19 local emergency for 60 days (5-0)
• Extended severe water shortage emergency for 30 days (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-07 establishing Planning Commission bylaws (5-0)
• Authorized City Manager to sign letter of commitment for GFO-21-303 grant (5-0)
• Appointed Amado Cervantes to Planning Commission
• Appointed Tyler Naranjo to Planning Commission
• Approved consent calendar including Resolution 2022-06 adding four city positions (5-0)

City Council/Successor Agency/Public Finance Authority

The Avenal City Council will consider a resolution to create two new Police Captain positions and two new City Hall positions (a Human Resources/Risk Management Assistant and a part-time Customer Service Representative/Office Assistant). The police positions are a contingency plan for the upcoming retirement of Chief Stiver, while the City Hall roles would be funded through the city's ARPA budget. The council will discuss and potentially vote on this item, with a recommendation to ratify it at the next regular meeting.

• Create two Police Captain positions (salary range S-7: $6,738.81 - $8,191.07) to cover Chief's duties after retirement
• Create Human Resources/Risk Management Assistant position at City Hall
• Create part-time Customer Service Representative/Office Assistant position at City Hall
• Use $300,000 ARPA budget allocation for new City Hall positions (less than $20,000 spent as of January 2022)
• Resolution 2022-_____ to approve job descriptions and classifications

The Avenal City Council approved Resolution 2022-06 to establish two new Captain positions in the Police Department and two new positions in City Hall (a Human Resources/Risk Management Assistant and a Part-Time Customer Service Representative/Office Assistant). The police positions are intended to cover the interim after Chief Stiver's retirement, and the City Hall positions will be funded through the ARPA budget. The vote was 4-0, with Councilman Hernandez absent.

• Approved Resolution 2022-06 establishing two Police Captain positions and two City Hall positions (4-0)
• Directed staff to reintroduce the item at the next regular meeting for ratification
• Appointed Griselda Price as City Clerk

City Council/Successor Agency/Public Finance Authority

The Avenal City Council, Successor Agency, and Public Finance Authority will meet to consider several routine items, including ratifying a three-year police union contract, adopting an organic waste ordinance, and reviewing development impact fees. The council will also discuss extending two local emergencies and approving a payment schedule for the next fiscal year. The meeting includes a closed session for litigation, labor negotiations, and a performance evaluation.

• Ratify Resolution 2022-01 approving APOA MOU for FY 2021/2022-2023/2024
• Adopt Ordinance 2021-02 on organic waste and edible food handling
• Waive retiree health benefit service requirement after 15 years (Resolution 2022-03)
• Public hearing on annual review of Development Impact Fees and FY 2020/21 funds
• Extend local emergencies declared March 24, 2020 and May 27, 2021

The Avenal City Council approved the consent calendar, which included adopting Ordinance 2021-02 for organic waste and edible food handling, ratifying the APOA MOU for FY 2021-2024, and waiving a portion of retiree health benefit service requirements. The council also directed staff to apply for all applicable grants, prioritizing the Transmission Line Project, and extended local emergencies for COVID-19 and severe water shortage. All votes were unanimous (4-0) with Councilman Gravelle absent.

• Adopted Ordinance 2021-02 for organic waste and edible food handling (4-0)
• Ratified APOA MOU for FY 2021/2022-2023/2024 (4-0)
• Approved waiver of retiree health benefit service requirement after 15 years (4-0)
• Directed staff to apply for all grants, prioritizing Transmission Line Project (4-0)
• Approved Resolution 2022-04 for Development Impact Fees annual review (4-0)
• Extended local emergency for COVID-19 for 60 days (4-0)
• Extended local emergency for severe water shortage for 30 days (4-0)
• Approved Recognized Obligation Payment Schedule for FY 2022-2023 (4-0)

City Council/Successor Agency/Public Finance Authority

The Avenal City Council is holding a special meeting that consists primarily of a closed session to evaluate the performance of the City Manager. The agenda includes public comment periods and standard procedural items, but no other substantive decisions or discussions are listed.

• Closed session to consider public employee performance evaluation for the City Manager position
• Public comments allowed on any agenda item or matters within the council's jurisdiction
• Meeting held via Zoom video/web conferencing

The Avenal City Council held a special meeting on January 6, 2022, with no public comments. In closed session, they reviewed the City Manager's performance evaluation. Upon reopening, the council unanimously approved the evaluation for Antony Lopez. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved City Manager Antony Lopez's performance evaluation (5-0)