Jesus A. Gonzalez

The Kerman 2040 General Plan serves as a long-range roadmap to guide decision-making and establish standards for new development and city improvements through the year 2040. Its strategic pillars encompass economic development, land use, circulation, housing, conservation, open space, parks and recreation, public health and safety, public facilities and services, environmental justice, and education and lifelong learning. The plan aims to preserve Kerman's small-town character and agricultural lands, promote orderly urban growth, revitalize the historical commercial core, support industrial investment, and ensure a variety of housing types.

This Hearing Draft Policy Document for the City of Kerman outlines strategic directions for two key elements: Circulation and Public Facilities and Services. The Circulation element focuses on developing a balanced, multimodal transportation network, ensuring safe and efficient roadways, managing goods movement, providing adequate parking, and promoting alternative transportation to reduce vehicle miles traveled. The Public Facilities and Services element aims to provide quality public facilities and services, ensure a reliable water supply, secure infrastructure funding, and foster a sustainable and resilient community through energy efficiency and waste reduction. The plan seeks to accommodate future growth, enhance quality of life, and ensure public health and safety.

The City Council meeting included the declaration of 2022 General Election results, oaths of office for new council members, and the appointment of a Mayor Pro Tem. Consent calendar items covered meeting minutes, payroll, warrants, investment reports, and various resolutions related to remote meetings, fire codes, alternative fuel vehicles, block grants, and contract awards. Public hearings were held regarding alcohol beverage sales and the elimination of a crosswalk. Department reports included the 2021-2022 Auditor's Report, Planning Commission appointments, a funding request, expense reimbursement policy updates, and a reasonable accommodations policy. A closed session was held for a public employee evaluation.

The board meeting agenda included approval of minutes from a previous meeting, review of the treasurer's report (Warrant Nos. 1435-1438 totaling $64,949.99), and consideration of resolutions to approve Recognized Obligation Payment Schedules (ROPS) for the periods of July 1, 2016, through June 30, 2017 (ROPS 16-17) and a last and final ROPS for July 1, 2016, through December 31, 2018 (ROPS 18-19). The ROPS included funding for Successor Agency administrative costs, Hacienda Heights Project obligations, and REDIP loan payments. The board also considered a last and final ROPS to cover remaining obligations.

The City Council meeting included the approval of minutes from December 14, 2022, warrants, payroll, and a monthly investment report. Ordinances were adopted regarding the 2022 California Building Standards Code and remote City Council meetings under AB 361. A resolution was approved concurring with the North Central Fire Protection District Board's adoption of the 2022 California Fire Code. Other resolutions authorized the City Manager to administer a new alternative fuel vehicle purchase program, approved participation in a Joint Powers Agreement for the County Community Development Block Grant program, and awarded a contract for orchard removal at Hart Ranch Community Park. A public hearing was held and an ordinance text amendment was introduced regarding alcohol beverage sales. The council accepted the 2021-2022 Auditor's Report and Financial Statements, appointed members to the Planning Commission, reviewed a funding request for Kerman Youth Football, adopted an updated City expense reimbursement policy, amended the Authorized Position List to add a Code Enforcement position, and approved a reasonable accommodations policy for City meetings. A closed session was held for a public employee evaluation.