Motts’ lead over Torres-Walker continues to shrink but not by much
By Allen D. Payton
The latest update from the Contra Costa Elections office as of Friday, November 13, 2026, at 3:15 p.m., shows challenger and former Antioch Councilwoman Joy Motts maintaining her lead over incumbent Tamisha Torres-Walker in the District 1 City Council race, but it continues to shrink, this time by just three votes.
Only 1,000 additional ballots were counted countywide since the previous update on Tuesday, of which 57 were in the District 1 race. Motts now has 2,818 votes, an increase of 27 votes to Torres-Walker’s 2,712 votes, an increase of 30 votes. So, Torres-Walker picked up 52 percent of the additional 57 votes in the District 1 race and Motts garnered 48 percent.
There are now an estimated 6,500 ballots remaining to be counted in the county.
According to Dawn Kruger, Community and Media Relations Coordinator for the Contra Costa Elections office, of the 6,500 ballots remaining to be counted, “4,500 are provisional or conditional registration with provisional ballots. They’re similar. Provisional ballots are in the yellow envelope at polling places given to people who couldn’t be found, or it has been indicated they already voted. Conditional ballots are for those who moved and claimed they didn’t receive a ballot. That’s one of the reasons. So, we have to check to ensure they haven’t voted somewhere else before we can count their ballot.”
“Some ballots are awaiting signature cure,” she continued. “If someone forgot to sign their ballot envelope or it doesn’t match what’s on file, they have until Nov. 25 to return the correct signature.”
“The provisional ballots we’ll start working on next week, now that we’re done with the damaged ballots that couldn’t be run through the scanners,” Kruger added.
Estimated number of unprocessed ballots:
Ballots voted at a voting location – 0
Vote-by-mail ballots received on or before Election Day – 0
Vote-by-mail ballots received after Election Day – 0
Next Results Expected (date and time): Wednesday, 11/18/2026 – 4:00 PM
Certification Dates
According to the schedule on the Elections office website, the Target Certification / Final Results are projected for Dec. 3rd. According to the California Secretary of State’s Office, “county elections officials must report final official results to the Secretary of State by December 4, 2026. The Secretary of State will certify the results on December 11, 2026.”
Owners Liz and Daniel Jiminez will hold the Grand Opening of the third location of their Cafecito Lounge and second in Antioch on Saturday and Sunday, November 14 and 15, 2026.
Owners Liz and Daniel Jiminez (back), daughter, Mya (in stripes) and friends at their new Cafecito Lounge in Antioch during a soft opening on Thursday, Nov. 12, 2026. Photos by Allen D. Payton
With a first location in Lodi and a second in Antioch’s historic, downtown Rivertown in the Luxe Studios on W. 4th Street, the Jiminez family, including daughter, Mya who will manage the new coffee shop, welcome the community to their new location at 2030 A Street on the corner of Railroad Avenue.
The Mexican inspired coffee shop offers espressos, teas, matchas, as well as natural juices and more. The new shop includes indoor seating and a conference room for use by the community.
The new Cafecito Lounge in Antioch is located at the corner of A Street and Railroad Avenue and offers on- and off-street parking.
The Ribbon Cutting will be held at 8:00 a.m. on Saturday which will feature raffles and free pastries while supplies last. Enjoy one free concha per order, while supplies last
Be one of the first 40 people to arrive and get a mystery envelope with a prize!
“Our family has put so much love into this new space, and we’re so excited to finally share it with you. Thank you for supporting Cafecito Lounge and being part of our story. Bring your family, tag your coffee date, and come celebrate with us,” the Jiminez family said.
The saying on the wall translates to, “The secret of a good coffee is who you enjoy it with.” A conference room is available for the community to use.
Stop by for coffee, tea, other refreshing drinks and pastries from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and Saturday and Sunday 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. They are closed on Mondays. For more information visit Cafecito Lounge’s Facebook page or call (925) 732-7024.
White concedes defeatsays, “This election concludes my pursuit of political office in the City of Antioch.”
By Allen D. Payton
In a post on her official Facebook page on Thursday, Nov. 12, 2026, Antioch District 4 Councilwoman Monica Wilson offered appreciation for re-election to her fifth term. The latest results, which are expected to be finalized later today, Friday, Nov. 13, show her maintaining the lead she’s had since election night over third-time challenger Sandra White and two other candidates, Matty Mathews Alappat and Andrew Becker. As previously reported, Wilson currently has 4,169 votes or 46.04 percent of the vote to White’s 2,488 or 27.48 percent, followed by Alappat with 1,457 votes or 16.09 percent and Becker with 941 votes or 10.09 percent of the vote. There were only 7,500 ballots remaining to be counted in the county at that time.
Election results as of Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2026. Source: Contra Costa Elections
Wilson wrote:
“THANK YOU, ANTIOCH!
I am deeply honored and grateful to the residents of District 4 for once again placing your trust in me to serve on the Antioch City Council.
To every voter, volunteer, supporter, and community member who stood with me throughout this campaign, THANK YOU! Your encouragement, dedication, and belief in our shared vision made this possible. I do not take your support or your trust for granted.
I also want to take a moment to acknowledge and thank my opponents. Putting yourself out there, opening yourself up to public scrutiny, and running for elected office is no easy undertaking. It takes courage, commitment, and a willingness to serve. While we may have different perspectives on how to move our city forward, we share something important: a love for Antioch and a desire to see our community thrive. Thank you for stepping forward and being part of the democratic process.
Serving this community has never been about a title. It has always been about the people, the work, and our collective responsibility to move Antioch forward.
There is still much work ahead, and I remain committed to strengthening public safety, supporting local businesses, protecting essential services, and ensuring that every resident has a voice in shaping our city’s future.
Whether you voted for me or not, I am here to represent you. I AM HERE TO REPRESENT ANTIOCH! Elections may bring out our differences, but our shared commitment to Antioch should always bring us together. Our community is strongest when we work together.
Thank you again, District 4, for the opportunity to continue serving you. Now, let’s get back to work!
In a post on Tuesday, following the latest results update from the Contra Costa Elections office, White wrote on her campaign Facebook page:
Dear Friends and Supporters,
With a heavy heart, I share that I was defeated in the race for Antioch City Council, District 4. The incumbent will prevail and serve another term. While this is a disappointing outcome, I respect the voters’ decision.
This election was especially difficult because so much was at stake for our city’s future. My concerns about ineffective leadership and poor decision-making were a driving force behind my continued efforts to run for office. I believed our residents deserved stronger leadership, greater accountability, and meaningful progress, and I still do.
Although I continue to struggle with what I see as shortcomings in a few of our city’s leadership, the voters have chosen otherwise. This election concludes my pursuit of political office in the City of Antioch. My commitment to our community, however, will continue through my volunteer and advocacy work.
To everyone who donated, volunteered, displayed a sign, shared my message, or offered encouragement: thank you! Your support carried me through this campaign, and I will always be grateful for the time, trust, and hope you invested in me.
I continue to pray for our city, its residents, and its leaders. My hope remains that Antioch will become a city where every resident feels safe, heard, and proud to call it home.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Sandra White
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Neither Alappat nor Becker have posted anything about the election results on their Facebook pages.
The Lemon Tree, located at 314 G Street in Antioch’s historic, downtown Rivertown, is excited to introduce Too Much Pretty, a boutique-style plant and home décor shopping experience now open inside The Lemon Tree.
At the heart of Too Much Pretty is a love for plants. From beautiful houseplants and succulents to greenery that brings a little life into any room, the boutique offers a thoughtfully selected collection for both experienced plant lovers and those just beginning their plant journey.
But there’s a little more to discover! Shoppers will also find an assortment of gently loved home décor, decorative accents, and unique finds. It’s a little bit of this, a little bit of that, and, of course, a whole lot of pretty.
Created by The Lemon Tree founder Nicole Holmes, Too Much Pretty is an extension of her vision to continue bringing unique experiences, shopping opportunities, and community connections to downtown Antioch.
“We wanted to create a space where people could stop in, browse, discover something special, and maybe take home a new plant or something pretty for their home. The plants are really at the heart of it. There’s something special about bringing a little greenery into your space,” said Holmes.
Designed as an intimate, boutique-style shopping experience, Too Much Pretty offers a welcoming place to explore, find a new favorite plant, and enjoy a little retail therapy right here in Rivertown.
So, Antioch, if you’ve been looking for a new plant to bring home, a little something to refresh your space, or simply an excuse to stop and shop local, there’s a new place waiting for you.
Too Much Pretty is now open inside The Lemon Tree at 314 G Street in downtown Antioch.
Shopping hours are Tuesday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Follow The Lemon Tree on Instagram @thelemontree_antioch for updates, new arrivals, and a peek at what’s growing.
The latest results from last Tuesday’s election as of today, Nov. 10, 2026. Source: Contra Costa Elections
7,500 ballots remaining to be counted in the county
By Allen D. Payton
In a repeat of four years ago, the latest results from the Contra Costa Elections office as of Tuesday, November 10, 2026, show District 1 Antioch City Councilwoman Tamisha Torres-Walker closing in on challenger and former Councilwoman Joy Motts who still clings to the lead now, by just 109 votes.
With 62,050 votes counted since last Friday’s update, Torres-Walker gained on Motts by 120 votes to close the gap to make it just 51-49 percent for the second-time challenger.
Since last Friday, 952 additional votes were counted in the race. Torres-Walker’s vote count increased from 2,146 to 2,682 or 536 total which was 56 percent of the additional votes. Motts’ vote count increased by 416 votes from 2,375 to 2,791 votes or 44 percent of the additional votes.
There are 7,500 ballots remaining to be counted throughout the county. Based on the percentage of votes in District 1 out of the total ballots counted countywide since last Friday there are potentially 115 votes remaining to be counted in that race. Torres-Walker will have to receive 98% of the remaining estimated votes or 113 in order win.
“I’ve been hopeful all along here. I knew it was going to be a close race, and it is,” Motts said when reached for comment. “Until the final numbers are in, it’s best to wait.”
Election results as of Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2026. Source: Contra Costa Elections
Area 5 Trustee Race
In the Area 5 Trustee Race, incumbent Mary Rocha finally declared victory in her reelection over challenger and first-time candidate Brandon Dawkins. She increased her vote count by 480 votes since last Friday’s update and now leads by 684 votes with a total of 2,815 or 56.91 percent. Dawkins gained an additional 428 votes for a new total of 2,131 votes or 43.09 percent of the vote.
“I want to thank the community for supporting me for another four years. I will make every effort to reduce the impacts of the budget, improve the education of our students and keeping them safe in the classroom.”
Previously, Rocha wrote on her campaign Facebook page, “It’s been a great campaign thanks to meeting new friends, reconnecting with longtime community members and being supported by so many wonderful people. I appreciate you all!”
Election results as of Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2026. Source: Contra Costa Elections
District 4 Council Race
The results in the District 4 Council race haven’t changed, with incumbent Monica Wilson reelected with 4,169 votes or 46.09 percent of the vote to second-place finisher and third-time challenger Sandra White with 2,488 votes or 27.48 percent, followed by newcomer Matty Mathews Alappat with 1,457 votes 16.09 percent of the vote, and Andrew Becker with 941 votes or 10.39 percent. White would have needed both of the other two candidates out of the race in order to be competitive and possibly win.
Wilson has yet to post anything on her official Facebook page claiming victory.
Remaining Ballots & Next Update
According to the Elections Office, following are the Estimated number of unprocessed ballots:
Ballots voted at a voting location – 0
Vote-by-mail ballots received on or before Election Day – 0
Vote-by-mail ballots received after Election Day – 0
Next Results Expected (date and time): Friday, 11/13/2026 – 4:00 PM
Certification Dates
According to the schedule on the Elections office website, the Target Certification / Final Results are projected for Dec. 3rd. According to the California Secretary of State’s Office, “county elections officials must report final official results to the Secretary of State by December 4, 2026. The Secretary of State will certify the results on December 11, 2026.”
Antioch Police Department Records Division staff. Photo: APD
During Law Enforcement Records and Support Personnel Appreciation Week
By Antioch Police Department
This week, we proudly recognize and celebrate our amazing Records Division!
Law Enforcement Records and Support Personnel Appreciation Week is recognized the second week of November.
While they may not always be out in the field or in the spotlight, their work is an essential part of keeping our department running smoothly and supporting the officers and staff who serve our community every day.
From maintaining records and processing critical information to assisting with investigations and keeping daily operations moving, our Records team handles countless details that make a BIG difference. Their hard work, dedication, professionalism, and attention to detail do not go unnoticed!
Please join us in showing some love and appreciation to our Records Division. Thank you for everything you do, for always being there behind the scenes, and for being such an important part of the Antioch Police Department family!
Porshe Taylor (center) sits as the first and only Chairperson to date of the Antioch Police Oversight Commission during their meeting Feb. 3, 2025. Video screenshot
“It was just no longer a fit for me professionally and morally” – Porshe Taylor
By Allen D. Payton
Antioch Police Oversight Commission Chairperson Porshe Taylor submitted her letter of resignation from the commission, today, Tuesday, November 10, 2026, before tonight’s City Council meeting during which her removal from the commission is agendized.
When reached for comment to explain her absences, Taylor responded, “Thanks, I appreciate the opportunity. But I won’t be giving an explanation. However, the council will be receiving an official resignation letter.”
She then provided a copy of her letter dated October 9, 2026. Asked if it was sent that day and why her removal is on tonight’s meeting agenda Taylor explained, “No, they received [it] today. I wrote it on October 9th. I was unsure if I would defend my absences. But I decided against it simply on what is addressed in the letter. I have several concerns about APOC. It was just no longer a fit for me professionally and morally, if I summarized everything.”
Please accept this letter as my formal resignation from the Antioch Police Oversight Commission (APOC), where I have had the distinct honor of serving as Chair throughout all three of my terms.
My tenure has been one of dedication, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability, and meaningful civilian oversight. Throughout my service, I have worked to establish strong professional relationships with fellow commissioners, city leadership, law enforcement representatives, community organizations, and residents. These relationships have been instrumental in advancing difficult conversations and maintaining a community voice within the oversight process.
However, I would be remiss to conclude my service without acknowledging the systemic challenges that have consistently hindered the Commission’s progress.
Despite years of service, the Commission has experienced limited forward movement in critical areas, including community engagement, policy development, and budget transparency. Particularly concerning is the City Council’s acceptance of our annual report and recommendations, followed by actions and decisions in subsequent years that appeared to contradict the very direction the Commission had formally presented. Accepting recommendations without meaningful consideration or implementation raises legitimate questions about the City’s commitment to civilian oversight.
Equally troubling has been the instability of city staffing and administrative support. Frequent changes in personnel, methodologies, procedures, and expectations have created an inconsistent and often fragmented operating environment. These conditions have made it extraordinarily difficult for community volunteers to establish the stable foundation necessary for an effective and sustainable commission.
Community volunteers should not be expected to provide institutional stability where the institution itself has failed to maintain it.
I firmly believe that effective oversight requires more than the existence of a commission. It requires consistent administrative support, access to relevant information, transparent budgeting, meaningful policy review, and a governing body willing to act upon the work produced by its appointed representatives.
My decision to resign is not a withdrawal from public service or my commitment to accountability. Rather, it is a recognition that my experience, professional relationships, and continued advocacy may now be of greater value outside the limitations of this appointed position.
Through my new business endeavors and the establishment of the People’s Civic Council, I intend to continue advocating for transparency, responsible governance, and community participation. The People’s Civic Council will include a dedicated public safety and police oversight sector tasked with independently monitoring the work and effectiveness of APOC, while addressing other areas of municipal concern identified through community priorities and City Council actions.
I believe I can now be a stronger asset to the community by exercising my voice from the audience rather than being confined to a seat on the dais. My departure from the Commission does not diminish my commitment to its intended purpose; it strengthens my resolve to ensure that purpose is fulfilled.
I leave this position proud of the relationships I have cultivated, the professionalism I have maintained, and the integrity with which I have served throughout three consecutive terms as Chair.
I sincerely hope the City recognizes that meaningful civilian oversight cannot thrive on volunteer dedication alone. It must be supported by institutional consistency, political will, and a genuine commitment to accountability.
While my service as Chair concludes, my responsibility to the community does not. The seat may change, but the standard of accountability should not.
Respectfully,
Porshe Tiara Taylor
Chair, Antioch Police Oversight Commission
Founder & Executive Director, Prison From-The-Inside-Out, Inc.
Founder, People’s Civic Council
————
As previously reported, a vote on Taylor’s removal from the APOC is the last regular item, number 19.5, on tonight’s Council meeting agenda. It should now be a moot subject.
