Dozier-Libbey Medical High School teachers Gretchen Medel (left) and Kim O’Leary (right), and student Salvator Beas, where honored by Principal Blair Wilkins. Photos: AUSD
Antioch High golf team member helps two at Lone Tree Golf Course
By Antioch Unified School Districtx
A Dozier-Libbey Medical High student recently jumped into action – twice! – on the same day.
Salvator Beas, a member of the Antioch High golf team, was at the Lone Tree Golf Course when a fellow student was inadvertently struck in the eye requiring immediate attention. Salvator administered first aid and assisted with the injured individual.
A bit later, a member of the public was struck in the head, which began bleeding.
Again, the junior quickly performed first-responder duties until fire and ambulance crews arrived.
Said John Luis, AHS coach: “These acts of kindness and medical skills made us proud. My sincere thanks and much gratitude for the actions of Salvator.”
Dozier-Libbey principal Blair Wilkins honored the young hero and two of his teachers – Gretchen Medel and Kim O’Leary.
“We are proud to recognize Salvator for his quick, compassionate actions and the outstanding example he sets for our school,” Wilkins said. “Using the skills he learned at DLMHS showcases the strong learning community established at our school.”
Deepika Naharas is running for Contra Costa County Auditor Controller. Source: campaign
Experienced finance and accounting leader pledges independent oversight, stronger accountability, and modern financial operations for Contra Costa taxpayers
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CA — May 10, 2026 — Deepika Naharas, a finance and accounting leader with more than 25 years of experience, announced her campaign for Contra Costa County Auditor-Controller, pledging to protect taxpayer dollars, strengthen accountability, and bring independent oversight to one of the county’s most important financial offices.
“The Auditor-Controller should work for the people,” Naharas said. “Contra Costa taxpayers deserve an independent financial watchdog who will protect public dollars, improve transparency, and make county finances easier for everyone to understand.”
The Auditor-Controller oversees the financial backbone of county government, including public funds, audits, payroll, accounting, and property tax administration. Naharas said the office must do more than balance books; it must build public trust.
Naharas’s call for independence and modernization has already drawn support from former employees of the Auditor-Controller’s Office, who believe the office is ready for fresh leadership, stronger accountability, and a renewed commitment to public service.
A San Ramon resident of 20 years, Naharas has led finance, accounting, compliance, budgeting, controls, and reporting functions for Fortune 500 companies, technology firms, startups, and mission-driven organizations. She holds an MBA in Finance and a BBA in Accounting.
According to her LinkedIn profile, since 2017 Naharas has worked as a Director at KongBasileConsulting, which, according to the company website is headquartered in San Francisco and provides “scalable outsourced operations support, serving as your internal accounting and financial consultants.”
Previously she worked as Treasurer from 2005 to 2020 for Hypertransport Technology Consortium, a non-profit founded by AMD (Advanced Micro Devices).
Since January 2023 Naharas has served as Controller/ Internal Auditor for Lead For Earth which works “To encourage, endorse and empower environmental and sustainability leaders at down ballot races” and “aims to connect communities with decision-makers and grassroots leaders who prioritize climate action, sustainability, and ecosystem protection.”
Her campaign is focused on three urgent priorities:
Protect Taxpayer Dollars – Strengthen audits, internal controls, compliance, and early-warning systems to prevent waste, errors, and mismanagement before they cost residents.
Increase Financial Transparency – Make County finances easier to understand with plain-language updates, clearer property tax explanations, and public tools that show how taxpayer dollars are collected, managed, and spent.
Modernize Financial Operations – Build on the county’s existing technology, assess smart new tools, and improve speed, accuracy, reporting, and service for taxpayers, county departments, and local districts.
“This race is about trust,” Naharas said. “Residents should not need an accounting degree to understand how county money is collected, managed, and spent. My goal is simple: every dollar accounted for, every report understandable, every department held to the same standard, and every taxpayer treated with respect.”
The 2026 election marks the first wide-open race for Contra Costa County Auditor-Controller in decades. Naharas said the moment calls for fresh leadership, not automatic succession.
“Experience matters — but independence matters just as much,” Naharas said. “I bring 25 years of real-world finance and accounting leadership, fresh eyes, and a commitment to serve the people of Contra Costa County with integrity, transparency, and results.”
The election will be held on Tuesday, June 2, 2026. For more information, visit DeepikaNaharas.com.
38-year-old Jaquan Tarrell Jones shot, killed 44-year-old Cordai Mustafi May 5th
Held on $11.62 million bail, has history of arrests and previous convictions in 2006, 2024
By Ted Asregadoo, PIO, Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office
The Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office has charged Jaquan Tarrell Jones, 38, of Antioch (born 3/18/1988), with six felony counts stemming from an attack that left one man dead and multiple victims injured in an Antioch neighborhood.
On Tuesday, May 5th, 2026, Jones fatally shot Cordai Mustafi, 44, and attempted to murder Dejon Anderson, 23 and Shontella Anderson, 46, at their residence on the 5200 block of Percheron Way in Antioch. Jones then left that location and entered a home on the 5500 block of Dawnview Court, where he kidnapped a 65-year-old woman who was caring for a child identified as John Doe. (See related article)
In addition to kidnapping, Jones is charged with child abuse and possession of a firearm with prior violent convictions. Several of the felony charges carry enhancements related to using and discharging a firearm, as well as causing great bodily injury to one of the victims. Jones also faces special allegations related to prior serious felonies, including a 2006 robbery conviction and a 2024 conviction for possessing a firearm.
District Attorney Diana Becton said, “No one should experience what these victims and their families have endured. My office will continue to work alongside law enforcement partners like the Antioch Police Department to hold armed offenders accountable and pursue justice on behalf of all those harmed.”
Jones is currently in custody at the Martinez Detention Facility on a $11,620,000 bond.
Arraignment on the charges is set for May 8th at 1:30 pm at the A.F. Bray Courts Building Annex in Department 6.
According to localcrimenews.com, he has been arrested 10 more times since 2020 by multiple agencies for crimes including robbery, burglary, grand theft, battery, threats of violence, addict in possession of a firearm, carrying a loaded firearm on person or in a vehicle while in a public place and carrying a concealed weapon in a vehicle.
Case No. 04-26-01734 | The People of the State of California v. Jaquan Tarell Jones
On Saturday, May 9, 2026, at approximately 1:03 a.m., Antioch Police officers responded to the area of G Street and Drake Street for a report of a single-vehicle collision.
Officers found a 51-year-old Antioch woman who had been ejected from a vehicle. She was transported to a local hospital with major injuries and later died. Her name is being withheld pending notification of her family.
The Antioch Police Department Traffic Safety Unit is leading the investigation. Preliminary information from witnesses and evidence at the scene suggests speed and impairment may have been contributing factors. The investigation is ongoing.
Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact Traffic Officer James Desiderio at 925-331-7474 or jdesiderio@antiochca.gov.
The Antioch School Board meeting on May 6, 2026, was held in the Deer Valley High School Theater to accommodate an expected large attendance by teachers, staff and the public. But that did not materialize. Photos by Allen D. Payton
“It would be unconscionable that we would be taking away livelihoods without readjusting pay scales, first.” – Board Vice President Olga Cobos-Smith
No public comments allowed before failed vote on budget cuts, but allowed before staff cut votes
“It is painful to make cuts. But it is more painful when local control is lost and folks who think we’ve saved their jobs, they’re actually not saved, now.” – Board President Dr. Jag Lathan
“Please do not solve this deficit on the backs of students with disabilities, families and the staff who serve them.” – Antioch resident
By Allen D. Payton
In spite of the Antioch Unified School District facing a $32 million deficit, during a long meeting, sparsely attended by the public, Wednesday night, May 6, 2026, the Board of Trustees on split votes, opposed the proposed $18.7 million in budget cuts and staff cuts of 175 positions. Only Board President and Area 2 Trustee Dr. Jag Lathan and Area 1 Trustee Antonio Hernandez voted for the cuts. Board Vice President and Area 4 Trustee Olga Cobos-Smith, Area 3 Trustee Dee Brown and Area 5 Trustee Mary Rocha voted against.
The meeting was held in the Deer Valley High School Theater with the expectation of greater attendance than the District’s Board Room could accommodate. But that turned out to not be necessary.
Vote #1 – Budget Cuts
For agenda item 6.A., Resolution 2025-2026-61 entitled, “Adoption of Proposed Budget Reductions for the 2026-27 Fiscal Year”. That resolution read: “NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the District is recommending that the Board of Education adopt the proposed 2026-27 budget reductions of $18,759,069 for the 2026-27 budget in support of its fiscal solvency goals and the restoration and retention of the mandatory 3.0% Reserve for Economic Uncertainties required under California Education Code 33128.3.”
Hernandez moved approval of the resolution under item 6.A., seconded by Lathan. Without public comment on the agenda item, or discussion or comments by the board members, and Lathan ignoring a call of a point of order from the member of the public, the trustees voted on the motion to adopt and it failed on a 2-3 vote.
Vote #2 – Teachers & Other Certificated Staff Cuts
The final person to speak during 29 minutes of public comments on agenda items 6.B. and C., said, “Please do not solve this deficit on the backs of students with disabilities, families and the staff who serve them.”
The board then took up item 6.B. and Hernandez spoke first saying, “For today, I have to do what I believe is fiscally prudent…to put our district in the best light,” before the vote on Resolution No. 2025-2026-58. It was entitled “Adopting the Administrative Law Judge Decision and Authorizing Final Layoff of Certificated Employees Due to Reduction or Discontinuance of Particular Kinds of Services.”
Brown said she wanted information on “what the fall start was going to look like” so she and Cobos-Smith could present it to the community, first. “I didn’t get that information. I’m still waiting for that information,” Brown continued. “I don’t want to make a vote on something rushed, for me. I cannot make haste decisions. That’s just who I am and this is a huge decision. So, I will be voting ‘no’,” she concluded.
Rocha, who presented her fellow trustees and District staff with her opposition to the cuts which was provided to and published by the Herald, yesterday, simply said, “I will be voting ‘no’. So, go ahead.” (See related article)
Lathan responded saying, “I’m really concerned. I’ve seen this play out. Although, in the end…it is painful to make cuts. But it is more painful when local control is lost and folks who think we’ve saved their jobs, they’re actually not saved, now.”
The motion to adopt the resolution to cut 78 teachers and other Certificated employee positions was made by Hernandez and seconded by Lathan. It read in part, “BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the employment of the affected certificated employees listed on Exhibit Ais hereby terminated effective upon the close of the current school year, i.e., the end of each affected employee’s last working day prior to July 1, 2026.” The motion also failed on a 2-3 vote with the same split of trustees.
Vote #3 – Classified Staff Cuts
Hernandez moved approval of item 6.C., Resolution No. 2025-2026-60, entitled, “Reduction or Discontinuance of Classified Services in Accordance with Administrative Law Judge Decision” with Lathan seconding the motion.
Before the vote, Hernandez said, “Again, I hope that we have more time. But, you know, I have to vote yes and move this forward. Because at least with all the information I have now, this is our only financial decision moving forward.”
Cobos-Smith responded by saying, “And I’ll also reiterate my point. It would be unconscionable that we would be taking away livelihoods without readjusting pay scales, first.”
The resolution to cut 97.4964 Full Time Equivalent Classified employee positions “for lack of work or lack of funds” included, “BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the employment of the affected classified employees listed on Exhibit Ais hereby terminated effective upon the close of the current school year, i.e., the end of each affected employee’s last working day prior to July 1, 2026.” The motion to adopt was also moved by Hernandez and seconded by Lathan and it failed on a 2-3 vote, with the same two trustees voting in favor and three voting against.
The Board then did not vote to cancel the May 13th regular school board meeting as the motion by Rocha did not receive a second.
“If we’re going to do any kind of reductions in staffing it has to be done by May 15th. So, that will be our last opportunity to do that,” Hernandez said. Lathan confirmed his information. Rocha then withdrew her motion.
Watch the Board meeting video on the District’s YouTube channel. See the votes beginning at the 2:13:20 and 2:50:19 marks.
Join us for the first City of Antioch General Plan Advisory Committee Meeting on Monday, May 11 at 6:00 PM in the Antioch City Council Chambers.
This meeting is an opportunity to learn more about the General Plan Update process and stay connected to the work helping shape Antioch’s future.
This General Plan Update is a way for you to share your vision for the future of Antioch. We need your help to make the General Plan a success.
The City is excited to embark on this process of updating our General Plan, creating a new blueprint for our community. A lot has changed since the last comprehensive General Plan update in 2003. Antioch has grown, new housing developments have been built, business and industry needs are different, the way people get around town has changed, and our needs and priorities have evolved.
Looking forward 20 years, how will state and regional trends impact life in Antioch? What new technologies and innovations will change how we live, work, and play? While we can’t see exactly what the future holds, we are preparing for it by updating our General Plan.
What do you love about Antioch? What opportunities and challenges do you think face Antioch as it evolves over the next 10, 15 or 20 years?
Sharing your ideas at community workshops, open houses, and online will help make sure that the updated General Plan conveys the values and priorities of its residents and businesses. With your help, we can set the stage for a future that honors our history and builds a more prosperous, vibrant, and safe Antioch. Let’s build our next chapter, together.
Each city in California is required to have a General Plan, which provides long-term policy guidance for the community’s growth and development, addressing physical, economic, social, and environmental changes. The General Plan provides opportunities to improve the quality of life in Antioch – enhancing public safety and fostering the vibrant, safe community we all deserve. This General Plan Update is our direct opportunity to address key challenges and set a new course. After the General Plan Update is complete, the zoning code will be revised to reflect the updated General Plan.
Visit the General Plan website for updates and sign up for notifications to stay informed about future meetings and opportunities to participate.
The Antioch Farmers’ Market in the Rivertown district brings together 25 truckloads of fresh produce and prepared foods from local family farms and artisans on Sundays, 9am to 1pm. Featuring the famous super sweet white corn from Brentwood, tree-ripened apricots from Patterson, peaches and nectarines from Hughson, vine-ripe strawberries and organic vegetables from Hollister. Farm fresh eggs, Asian vegetables, freshly baked breads and pastries! The Antioch Farmers’ Market is hosted by the City of Antioch and sponsored by the Celebrate Antioch Foundation.
With an empty chair where Antioch City Manager Bessie Scott usually sits next to her, City Attorney Lori Asuncion reads reports out from Closed Session as the mayor, council members and Finance Director Dawn Merchant look on during the meeting on May 5, 2026. Photo by Allen D. Payton
City Council appoints HR Director as Acting City Manager
Several members of the public spoke in support of Bessie Scott
By Allen D. Payton
Antioch City Manager Bessie M. Scott. Official photo
Following a three-hour long Closed Session meeting of the Antioch City Council on May 5, 2026, it was announced that City Manager Bessie M. Scott was on a paid leave of absence and the council appointed another staff member as Acting City Manager.
The closed-door meeting lasted about three hours during which they discussed Scott’s performance evaluation and a potential lawsuit against the City by an unnamed employee. (See related article)
Scott did not attend the open session prior to the council adjourning into closed session, nor did she attend that meeting.
During the open session, which began at 4:00 p.m., a variety of residents spoke, many on the assumption Scott was going to be fired.
Public Comments
Rivertown store owner and Downtown Antioch Association leader Debbie Blaisure said about Scott, “She gave the faith in the downtown businesses to do the job. I am hoping and praying she continues with this city. I wish all the businesses were here to talk on her behalf.”
Dr. Jamilia Land spoke next saying, “Some of what I’ve been hearing should disturb everyone in this room. It was under your watch that much of what happened in the APD occurred. To turn around and gaslight this woman, I’ve heard nothing but positive from people in the community.”
Antioch Police Oversight Commission (APOC) Vice Chairperson Devin Williams said, “This decision isn’t just about a person it’s about a pattern. It makes it difficult to move forward. Instead of working with her they want to get rid of her. We lose consistency. We lost time. We lose money. We lose the same money we say we don’t have. This sends a message. She hasn’t been here long enough to actually make a difference. This seems like the City of Antioch continues to self-sabotage. This stuff is exhausting.”
APOC Chairperson Porshe Taylor spoke next saying, “I’m not proud of the city. This person is being disclosed in Closed Session, yet without the public. This room is empty. This is disappointing.”
In her comments, Assistant City Clerk Christina Garcia announced her retirement concluding with, “When people stop listening it’s time to go.”
“I’ve been here for 23 1/2 years,” she said. “Why does the city manager evaluation have to be up here 10 times within a year? I don’t understand why this is happening, Ron. I thank you, City Manager Scott, for helping with the City Clerk’s Office. Let’s work together. Let’s move forward. It is time for me to retire. You didn’t push me out. It’s time to move on.”
Homeless advocate and resident Andrew Becker said, “I did rush down here with the short notice. He asked what is involved in a city employee performance review.” The special meeting agenda was issued Monday afternoon.
This reporter spoke during public comments and asked why the meeting was being held in the afternoon and suggested the council postpone it until next Tuesday at 6:00 p.m. to give the public time to provide input to the council, first.
Businessman and event promoter Ron Muhammad spoke last saying, “I’m a shareholder in this corporation called Antioch in the Bluerock district. The measuring stick on our elected officials should be deliverables. Closed Session should be based on input from your constituents. Check in with your constituents and represent them.”
City Attorney’s Announcements from Closed Session Actions
Antioch HR Director and now, Acting City Manager Ana Cortez. Official photo
Following closed session, City Attorney Lori Asuncion reported out, “that Council voted 4-0 with Councilwoman (Tamisha) Torres-Walker abstaining, City Manager is on leave of absence effective Wednesday, May 6, 2026. Compensation will continue without disruption. Ana Cortez is appointed Acting City Manager in the city manager’s absence effective immediately.”
She further said about agenda item 2., regarding a potential lawsuit against the City by an unnamed employee believed to possibly be Scott, “there’s nothing to report out under that agenda item.”
According to a press release by City PIO Jaden Baird, Scott’s benefits will also “continue without disruption during this period.
“The City Council appointed Human Resources and Risk Management Director Ana Cortez to serve as Acting City Manager effective immediately during the City Manager’s absence.
“City operations and services will continue without disruption.
“As this matter pertains to a confidential personnel issue, the City is not at liberty to provide additional information at this time.”
Scott was hired in 2024 on a two-year contract and started in the position in early October of that year.
Following the city attorney’s announcement, due to the extended length of the closed session, District 2 Councilman Louie Rocha suggested postponing the scheduled special Budget Study Session meeting which was to begin at 5:30 p.m., until next Tuesday night. The council agreed with a 5-0 vote and the meeting was adjourned.
