James Newton

The commission held an election for its leadership, appointing a new Chair and Vice Chair for the 2026 term. Additionally, staff provided an update on a recent gallery exhibit opening. The commission also discussed and approved the designs and installation locations for the 2026 Orange Avenue Nonprofit Banner Series, which will be forwarded to the City Council for final review.

The City Council meeting included updates on infrastructure maintenance, specifically relating to a water main rupture. Key actions taken included the adoption of a revised recreation fee schedule and facility use policy, the introduction of an ordinance adopting 2025 California Building Standards Codes, and the appointment of members to the Parks and Recreation Commission. The Council authorized the purchase of real property for potential future affordable housing, approved the deferral of wastewater capacity fee payments for development projects, and adopted a resolution prioritizing actions to address cross-border water pollution. Additionally, the Council approved a request for renewed deliberation concerning the Historic Resources Inventory for several identified properties, ensuring property owner notification and opportunity for input.

The commission reviewed the 2026 planning document during department reports. General business included the appointment of commissioners to the nonprofit banner review committee and the presentation of a visual arts program update as an informational item.

The City Council met in a special closed session to conduct a conference with legal counsel regarding one potential case of anticipated litigation. No reportable action was taken during the session.

The meeting included the presentation of a proclamation for Rosie the Riveter Day and the approval of a corrected housing element report. The council authorized a contract for a dog park fencing project and discussed the classification of several properties into the Tier 2 historic resource inventory. Additionally, the council directed staff to mail notices for a public hearing regarding wastewater rate increases and reviewed an annual report for the Tourism Improvement District, which was continued to a future meeting for further budget analysis. The council also denied a request for an encroachment permit amendment concerning private improvements at a local residence and addressed various reports regarding interagency assignments and water quality advocacy.