Michael Canales

The agenda for the Reedley City Council meeting scheduled for January 27, 2026, includes several key items. Presentations are planned for the Coach of the Year, new Fire Department employees, and National Human Trafficking Prevention Month. Public comments will be taken, followed by a Consent Agenda which includes the approval of minutes from the January 13, 2026 meeting, recommendation for rejection of a claim from Vanesa Garcia, and approval of expense reimbursement for Councilmember Fast. Workshop items include a discussion on the Cross Connection Control Program and an update on Approved Development Projects. The agenda also features information and reports, including the Profit & Loss Statement for Reedley's River City Theatre Company for September 1 - December 31, 2025. Closed Session discussions are scheduled concerning labor negotiations with the Reedley Public Safety Employees Association and legal counsel conferences regarding existing litigation and liability claims.

The agenda for this meeting included the approval of the minutes from the February 19, 2026 meeting. A primary item was the public hearing regarding the 2025 Annual Progress Report for the Reedley General Plan and Housing Element, which staff recommended forwarding to the City Council for acceptance and submission to state agencies. The Director's Report provided updates on the Community Development Department's activities. Future agenda items, including tentative parcel maps and further report discussions, were also noted.

Key discussions included a report from the Roads and Grounds Supervisor detailing the completion of new "Walk your wheels" stencils and progress on the trash bin logo. The committee approved the purchase of LED lights for downtown wreaths, costing approximately $1200, and confirmed the relocation of a trash can to prevent illegal dumping. The Public Works Director reported that the committee unanimously agreed to proceed with pressure washing sidewalks after the Christmas parade and noted that holiday music speakers require new wiring checks with the chamber. Committee comments addressed code enforcement actions concerning pallets/cardboard at Simply Mandy's, an unauthorized trash bin placement, and a request for staff to inspect dim or non-functioning building lights. The committee also raised questions regarding improving street sweeping effectiveness by ensuring vehicles are moved from the area.

Key discussions included taking the oath of office for two commissioners and appointing Commissioner Oldham as Vice Chair Person. The agenda and minutes from the previous meeting were approved. Public discussion involved addressing billing cycle details for airport tie-downs, maintenance updates regarding a drain and solar charger, and updates on the hangar waitlist process, which now requires a deposit. Old business focused on memorializing the Former FBO, Carl Smith, through a feature in the January newsletter and potentially installing a plaque in the pilot's lounge, with quotes to be obtained. New business covered the utilization of the Airport Beautification Fund for projects like sidewalk installation and paint conditions in the pilot's lounge, and a review of the Capital Improvement Fund plan for 2027-2031, which details projects like runway end light modernization and a Master Plan Update. Airport Manager reports covered the fuel farm project bidding timeline, the required extension for the BMX Track agreement, completion of aircraft registration, and updates on Reedley College's aviation activities.

The meeting included discussions and decisions on community recreation grants, awarding funds to Self-Help Enterprises - Guardian Village and Reedley Senior Commission, Inc. The commission also revisited and approved a grant for RHS Parents for a Sober Graduation. The Coach of the Year was announced. Updates were provided on youth sports, partnerships with the NFL, and upcoming sports registrations. The City received funding from Sierra Kings Health Care District for the Red Ribbon Event and free swim lessons. Updates were given on the Camacho Park Snack Bar, Faith House, and the Opera House stage. A successful parkway cleanup was reported, and future cleanup locations were identified. Commissioners shared comments on the Faith House Open House, park lighting, traffic concerns, and community events.