City of Coalinga

The meeting involved agenda modifications, including adding discussion items from a concurrent special meeting and moving an item to executive session for discussion prior to open session proceedings. Following the executive session, the agenda was reapproved, and item 6.5 was moved to the consent calendar. Public comments included a representative from the Chamber of Commerce discussing the recent community service awards dinner and upcoming local events like the Marty Gro event and derby updates. Key discussion items included the authorization for staff to apply for HOME federal program funding for a senior housing project, which involves a potential $8.3 million loan and city financial commitments. The council also reviewed the purchase and installation of new audiovisual equipment for the council chambers, ensuring compatibility with existing OBS software. Furthermore, the council discussed authorizing the City Manager to abate fire damage at a residence, proposing city staff complete the abatement using volunteer/overtime hours to mitigate high contractor bids, and determining that the developer owns the property. Finally, the council reviewed a report on the state retail cannabis sales tax rates, noting the current 10% rate is high compared to neighboring jurisdictions, with discussions suggesting a potential reduction to improve competitiveness and market sustainability.

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance and agenda corrections, including confirming the interim city manager and addressing the need for future agendas to include page numbers and time limits for public comments. Key discussions involved the information consent calendar, specifically the resolution to review and accept the 2025 annual progress report for the city's sixth cycle housing element and general plan, which was prepared by Precision Engineering. Department reports detailed upcoming construction for 48 new houses (Warthan Phase III, Merced and Chardonnay) that are nearing permit issuance. Commissioners also discussed street improvement projects concerning Caltrans requirements for curb cuts along Highway 198 (Lucille alignment) and updates on the planned Elm street reconfiguration. Furthermore, progress on the splash pad project was noted, with design nearing completion and a bid phase anticipated soon.

The City Council meeting began with the approval of the agenda for February 5th, 2026, following a request to postpone agenda item 6.1 to February 19th. Key presentations included a proclamation declaring February as Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, highlighting the importance of education and support for survivors. Additionally, there was a presentation from the community garden detailing its progress since transitioning to a nonprofit, future plans such as installing an automated drip irrigation system and introducing hydroponics, and emphasizing community engagement and food security. The Public Outreach Coordinator also presented on current social media efforts, noting significant increases in Facebook followers and content views.

The meeting agenda includes a code enforcement report for previous months under the consent calendar. Action items involve the approval of an award for the City Hall flooring project, including council chambers and furniture moving, as well as the consideration of a city endorsement for the proposed Measure C renewal plan. The council will also receive various administrative and departmental announcements.

The meeting commenced with the swearing-in of new council member Jeremy Louderder for District Two. A key agenda item involved the reorganization of the Mayor Pro Tim position following a resignation, resulting in the election of Councilman Schindler to the role. The council recognized the SNIP bus for its exceptional service, including spaying and neutering approximately 400 animals across four events. Recognition was also given to new hires and promotions within the Fire Department for 2025, including Haley Crossway, Shantel Sanchez, Aaron Trillo, Brandon Moore, Hunter Bell, and Dylan Rodriguez, with several promotions supported by grants from the Clinga Healthcare Hospital District. Department updates included the City Manager's office reporting on the implementation of Artificial Intelligence for plan review to increase efficiency and save on consultant costs, as well as building code legal aspects training related to beautification efforts. The Public Works department noted progress on capital improvement projects, specifically 90% drawings for the splash pad, the Cedar Avenue ADU project, the installation of a camera tower at the Derek site, and ongoing solar array construction at the water treatment and wastewater treatment plants. Delays were noted regarding the design for the outdoor food court. The Police Chief provided statistics for November, showing 1,523 calls for service and 37 arrests, with year-to-date crime showing a 1% increase compared to the previous year.