Rolando Aguilar

The meeting commenced with acknowledgments regarding technology flexibility before being formally called to order. Agenda item modifications included correcting the title and financial details for a consent calendar item (C1) concerning the increase of a consultant agreement by $30,000, leading to a total not to exceed $80,000. Another modification concerned the legislative platform, clarifying additions that were obscured by a printing glitch. The public comment period was held, emphasizing participation guidelines for those joining via Zoom or phone to ensure comments are part of the public record. The Youth Council provided an extensive report on their 'Safer Streets, Safer Futures' initiative, which addresses pedestrian and street safety issues such as faded crosswalks and signage. They detailed a presentation given to public works staff and the TAMY organization, and plans to collaborate on a grant application. The Youth Council also scheduled a 'sidewalk art day' on March 28th in collaboration with TAMY to promote street safety artistically. Additionally, the Youth Council is planning a youth summit for May 2nd in collaboration with neighboring youth councils. The meeting then included a formal proclamation designating March 2026 as Red Cross Month, honoring the local chapter's humanitarian mission, including providing disaster relief and support to armed forces families. A council member inquired about including safety considerations for electric scooters and bikes in the initiative research, which the Youth Council confirmed they are addressing through collaboration with the Vision Zero program.

The meeting included administrative items such as roll call and the pledge of allegiance. Key discussion centered on agenda modifications, specifically a corrected resolution (6329) concerning a special parcel tax measure to be consolidated with the June 2, 2026, election to fund fire and emergency medical services. A correction was also noted for previous minutes regarding an SPCA vote not being unanimous (3-2). Council presentations involved recognizing outstanding veteran volunteer Tony Birueta and high-achieving student Eddie Bberto Hernandez. The meeting proceeded to approve the consent calendar (Items C1 to C4), noting the correction to the minutes regarding the SPCA vote. A public hearing was held for Ordinance Number 774, which proposes amending the Downtown Specific Plan to establish separate veterinary services and animal boarding uses, and conditionally allow small-scale veterinary services in the downtown core. The council discussed the impact of allowing these services adjacent to other businesses, such as restaurants, within the designated downtown core zone.

The agenda for the meeting included a Youth Council Program Update and Street Safety Initiative presentation focusing on pedestrian and traffic safety improvements, site assessments at priority locations, and collaboration with Public Works and TAMC. The Consent Calendar covered routine items such as the approval of warrants and activity reports from various departments (HR, Parks and Recreation, Public Works, Fire, Community and Economic Development, Police, Community Engagement). Key resolutions addressed the completion of the Soledad Community Center Building Modernization Project and the release of retention, amendments to consulting services agreements, and the approval of a new agreement with Monterey Computer Corporation. Business items included approving sponsorship and street closure for the New El Mercadito Market, and approving the 2025 General Plan Annual Progress Report and the 2025 Housing Element Annual Progress Report. The Council also reviewed and modified a resolution regarding a proposed special parcel tax for Fire and Emergency Medical Services.

The agenda for this meeting covered several segments including public comment, council presentations, and a consent calendar. Key items under the consent calendar involved the approval of minutes from the 02/04/2026 meeting, warrants, a resolution declaring surplus equipment, and resolutions approving a contract change order and authorizing the release of retention for the Soledad Fire Department Aerial Apparatus Bay (Phase 2) Sitework Project. Public Hearing No. 1 concerned the waiver of reading and adoption of an ordinance amending the Downtown Specific Plan regarding veterinary services. Public Hearing No. 2 involved the waiver of reading and adoption of ordinances amending Zoning Title 17 concerning allowable uses and density bonus regulations, with a decision made to continue the hearing on Ordinance No. 774 to the next meeting. Under Business, the council considered and approved a resolution selecting Eden Housing, Inc. as the developer for a 100 Percent Affordable Housing Project at 540 Gabilan. Reports were given by the Mayor, Councilmembers, and the City Manager, noting the hiring of an Assistant City Manager and upcoming city events. Future agenda item requests included consideration for donating to the Soledad High School Scholarship Fund and requests for reports on the CDBG Loan Program and local events.

The meeting primarily focused on the presentation and recommendation for approval of the 2025 General Plan Annual Progress Report, which summarizes implementation progress from 2025 and must be submitted to state agencies. Key accomplishments in 2025 reported include economic development with the opening of Tractor Supply and Panda Express, infrastructure projects such as the completion of a new fire bay apparatus mural and the initiation of a recycled water (purple pipe) project. Parks and Recreation saw the implementation of 'Music in the Park' events and renovation of the community center kitchen. Transportation safety improvements were addressed through the Safe Routes to School program. Housing element updates detailed progress on land acquisition for 143 units, the adoption of pre-approved Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) resulting in 40 building permits, and activities related to the Youth Homelessness Demonstration Program, which assisted 12 households before its conclusion in December 2025. The resolution for the housing element annual progress report was also presented for approval.