James Andrews

The key discussions during the meeting included the presentation of certificates of recognition. One honored Christian Brown Johnson for setting two world records in ultramarathons to raise awareness and funds for Parkinson's disease, raising over $11,000 for the Michael J. Fox Foundation. Another recognized Pistari Ambulance and family for over 80 years of emergency service to the community. The City Manager introduced two new executive team members: David Berlettic as the Planning Manager and Harpier Gandhi as the Public Works Director. Public comments focused on requesting support to fund and build eight additional horseshoe courts at Rotary Park to qualify Madera for national/statewide tournaments, strong opposition to the proposed mileage tax citing its disproportionate impact on low-income residents, and a request to adjust the timing of two traffic lights due to excessive lag time causing traffic backups.

The regular meeting of the Madera City Council commenced at 6:00 p.m. The initial proceedings included operational reminders regarding public seating and remote participation protocols. The meeting included a significant moment to honor the life and service of Herman Perez, former mayor and council member, followed by an invocation and the flag salute, including a moment of silence. The agenda was approved after a motion to continue item A1 to the December 3rd meeting. Presentations focused heavily on recognizing local small businesses for Small Business Saturday, including Sabora Wajaka, Sanchez Brothers Tires, LA Small Business (Estraa), and Rancho San Miguel. A proclamation recognizing Veterans Day was also presented. The acting Mayor presided over the meeting due to the absence of the current Mayor.

The regular meeting of the Madera City Council included several proclamations and public comments. The council recognized Black History Month by honoring the Mitchell sisters for their extensive service in education. A second proclamation recognized California Earned Income Tax Credit Awareness Week, with discussion focusing on the CalEITC, YCTC, and FYTC programs, and free tax preparation services offered by United Way of Fresno Madera County. Public comments included an expression of appreciation for the Parks and Community Services Department's maintenance efforts and a proposal to establish the Central Valley Vintage Aircraft Museum in a vacant building at the airport. Another resident raised concerns regarding the high costs associated with extending city water and sewer lines to their property for new home construction. The meeting concluded with the approval of the consent calendar and a workshop discussion concerning city private domestic water permitting regulations and policies.

The City of Madera General Plan outlines land use designations and transportation infrastructure for the city. It establishes zones for residential, commercial, industrial, mixed-use, open space, and public/semi-public uses, alongside defining major roads, state highways, and railroads. The plan also delineates the urban growth boundary and sphere of influence. Originally adopted in October 2009, the plan has been subjected to multiple amendments, with the most recent documented amendment occurring in May 2024.

The Madera County 2026 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan Update aims to assess risks from natural hazards and implement actions to reduce future losses, ensuring eligibility for federal mitigation grant funding. This update, building on a 2018 plan and developed in partnership with the Cities of Chowchilla and Madera, will adhere to new FEMA guidance. It focuses on identifying and evaluating hazards, assessing vulnerability of people, assets, infrastructure, and the economy, and establishing an updated mitigation strategy to minimize the impact of future disasters.