City of Atwater

The council discussed various public concerns including the fair treatment of veterans in local parade committees, the legal authority regarding the appointment of the police chief, and reports of illegal dumping within the city. A groundbreaking ceremony for Atwater Feed was announced. Furthermore, the council approved the list of projects for the 2026-27 fiscal year to be funded by SB1, specifically addressing road repairs, sidewalk maintenance, and ADA compliance, and moved to discuss the development of a city-wide traffic calming policy.

The meeting included a public comment session where citizens discussed the upcoming Fourth of July celebration, concerns regarding the hiring process of the police chief, and an update on the Bloss Healthcare District's fiscal year achievements. The Council also reviewed and approved the consent calendar and received a presentation on the city's annual financial report, which included an audit of internal controls, compliance, and key financial metrics such as assets, liabilities, and net position.

The committee meeting addressed the nomination and appointment of a Chairperson and Vice Chairperson. Key discussion topics included a proposed change to the regular meeting time from 6:00 PM to 5:30 PM, a review of staff financial and department reports, and an evaluation of the Committee Expenditure Review Form. Updates were also provided by the City Manager regarding committee operations and public safety tax fund expenditures.

The meeting included public comments regarding employee wages and recognition. During the closed session, the City Council met with labor negotiators to discuss matters concerning the AFSCME Local 2703 Mid-Managers Group and the Miscellaneous Employees Unit. Staff received direction from the City Council following the session.

The Planning Commission conducted a public hearing for the Air Castle Museum Multiphase Project. The commission voted to adopt an Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act and approved the Site Plan and Conditional Use Permit for the project located at 5050 Santa Fe Drive. Additionally, commission members discussed the project timeline and welcomed new employees to the Planning Department.