11 Athletes, 1 Coach, 1 Team and a Community Leader to be honored Oct. 3
By Antioch Sports Legends
The Antioch Sports Legends Hall of Fame has announced its Class of 2026 inductees, who will be honored Saturday, Oct. 3, during a gala dinner at the Lone Tree Golf and Event Center beginning at 5 p.m.
11 Athletes, 1 Coach, 1 Team and a Community Leader Join Honorees of 100-Year Sports History of Athletes from Antioch. The gala dinner brings together more than 300 attendees, including inductees, alumni, guests, and volunteers, all united to honor our incredible athletes, coaches, and community members who’ve helped shape Antioch’s sports legacy.
“Since our inception in 2007, the Antioch Sports Legends Hall of Fame (ASLHOF) has inducted the “Best of the Best” male and female athletes in Antioch. Our goal is to preserve the rich, historical achievements in all sports for present and future generations to enjoy,” Eddie Beaudin, one of the Sports Legends five founders said.
For more than 100 years, Antioch’s “Best of the Best” athletes have made history locally and nationally. This year is no different The Class of 2026 Inductees is highlighted by a 13-time collegiate All-American track standout; three legendary football players from years past, including one who starred in the 1971 Fiesta Bowl; a two-time state junior college champion wrestler and All-American; a hard-throwing pitcher who earned junior college All-American honors before a seven-year professional baseball career; and the first female athlete from Antioch to receive a full athletic scholarship to a major college.
The class also includes a longtime coach who guided his golf team to seven consecutive league titles and a remarkable 56-match winning streak, along with a trailblazing girl’s water polo team that captured an NCS championship.
This year’s 19th Hall of Fame class inductees include:
Vicki Gonzales All-Around Female Athlete Antioch High School (1983)
Vern Shure All-Around Male Athlete Antioch High School (1983)
Laura Clark Volleyball Antioch High School (1978)
Erin Jones Softball Antioch High School (2009)
Chizoba Okodogbe Track & Field Deer Valley High School (2010)
Anthony Cress Wrestling Antioch High School (2010)
Brett Cornelison Football Antioch High School (1984)
Roger Davis Football Antioch High School (1967)
Evan Grimes Track & Field Antioch High School (2010) Nick
Pasquale Baseball Antioch High School (2009)
Rob Patton Football Antioch High School (1985)
Girls Varsity Water Polo Outstanding Team Antioch High School (1993)
Brian Kofford Golf Outstanding Coach Deer Valley High School
Laura Jacques Outstanding Community Leader
Limited tickets are available for purchase. Tickets will not be sold at the door. Purchase your tickets now to support our outstanding athletes while they are available.
Or you can stop by our office any Wednesday or Saturday from 1pm – 4pm.during the hours the museum is open. Please call us at 925-382-0565 if you have any questions. (cash or checks are also accepted)
Tickets are $90 each.
The weekend celebration kicks off with the popular ASLHOF Alumni Golf Tournament on Fri. Oct. 2, which is already sold out.
At the museum on Sat., Oct. 3, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., the new ASLHOF Class of 2026 displays will be unveiled. The displays are open to the public. Admission is always free.
That Saturday night the Sports Legends Hall of Fame induction dinner and ceremony takes place at the Lone Tree Golf and Event Center at 5 p.m.
The Antioch Sports Legends Hall of Fame is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that showcases and honors the achievements of 275 individual inductees and 19 teams (including players and coaches). It is located in the Antioch Historical Society Museum, 1500 West Fourth Street in Antioch. The museum is open to the public on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 1 to 4 p.m. free of charge. The Antioch Historical Museum resides within the 1910 Riverview High School, a site listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Please SHARE and LIKE on your social media accounts, help us announce the Class of 2026!
Some BB guns look like real guns. Photos: East Bay Regional Park District PD
By East Bay Regional Park District Police Department
BB guns can look incredibly similar to real firearms, especially from a distance or during a fast-moving situation. That makes it difficult for both the public and law enforcement officers to immediately tell whether someone is carrying a BB gun or a real rifle.
That uncertainty can quickly create a dangerous situation.
It’s also important to remember that East Bay Regional Park District Ordinance 38, Section 403.1 prohibits BB guns in East Bay Regional Parks.
Please leave BB guns and similar weapons at home when visiting our parks. Following park rules helps keep visitors, staff, and responding officers safe.
In a recent post on her Instagram account, political newcomer Matty Alappat announced her campaign for Antioch City Council in District 4 to unseat incumbent Councilwoman Monica Wilson. According to the City Clerk’s report, she filed her required documents and qualified as a candidate on August 5th. Alappat’s campaign slogan is, “United as Americans. Committed to Antioch” and lists her priorities as, “Public Safety, Clean Communities and Economic Growth.”
Matty Alappat in an AI-generated photo on her campaign website.
Plus, her campaign website includes the slogan, “A Safer, Cleaner Antioch — For All of Us” and she offers “Practical, neighborhood-focused leadership. Replacing political noise with actionable solutions.” She also provides a list of her priorities of “Public Safety, Thoughtful Housing and Homelessness Solutions, Cleaner City and Downtown Revitalization and Local Jobs” and is temporarily using an AI-generated photo of herself on the “About Matty” page which she plans to replace once new photos are taken.
As previously reported, she is listed on the ballot as Metty Mathews Alappat, and according to her LinkedIn page, her most recent job was as a Senior Technical Account Manager for Amazon Web Services until July 2025.
In her Instagram post repeating what is written in her Candidate Statement, Alappat provided more details about herself and why she’s running. She wrote, “I am Matty Alappat and I am running for Antioch City Council, District 4, to help build a safer, cleaner and more prosperous community for all of us.
“For the last 15 years I have worked in the software industry, solving tough problems and leading successful initiatives. I am ready to bring that same practical approach to City Council.
“I was fortunate to be raised by a mom who was a science teacher and a dad who worked in banking. They taught me that success is built on hard work, integrity, respect for others, and giving back to your community — values I still live by today.
“If elected, my top priority will be public safety. I will make sure the police have the resources required to fight crime and protect our neighborhoods.
“We also have to take better care of our city. That means investing in city’s infrastructure, revitalizing downtown, maintaining clean pet-friendly public spaces and bringing in new businesses and good-paying jobs.
“Housing policies must be carefully planned to fit existing neighborhoods and should only move forward where our infrastructure can truly support them. We will partner with nonprofits to help unhoused individuals achieve long-term stability and self-sufficiency, while also focusing on short-term transitional housing options.
“Antioch deserves leadership that brings people together, spends taxpayer dollars wisely, and gets results. I am committed to making Antioch a place we can all be proud of.
“I look forward to earning your support.”
Alappat’s LinkedIn profile shows she has earned six licenses and certificates all in the tech industry. Asked about her education when reached for comment Alappat said she earned a Master’s Degree in History, in 2002 and a B.A. in History, Economics and Political Science, both from theUniversity of Kerala in India.
Alappat moved to Antioch four years ago from Hayward.
“I adopted a dog who is very high energy and my place in Hayward was very tiny,” she shared. “I thought it was time to move to a house with a backyard and looked in this area because it’s more affordable for me.”
Currently, Alappat is in between jobs saying, “I decided to take a break and that’s when I started to think about doing something different.”
Alappat is also running against third-time candidate Sandra White and another first-time candidate, Andrew Becker, who regularly attends and speaks during council meetings. Wilson is seeking her fifth term on the council.
Like a scene from the Apple MacIntosh computer “1984” Super Bowl TV commercial and during a night the council voted to approve what some are concerned is more Big Brother-type surveillance, Mayor Ron Bernal’s face looms large over the Antioch City Council meeting on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, as he participates remotely due to what he described as “a contagious illness.” Video screenshot.
Plus, 30 more police emergency radios; postpones contract expansion with U.S. DOJ police department monitor
Mayor Bernal participates remotely without prior notification but allowed due to “contagious illness”
“I want to get Flock out of Antioch,” Councilwoman Torres-Walker said then voted for the new AI-assisted license plate reader system.
By Allen D. Payton
During their Tuesday night meeting, Aug. 25, 2026, the Antioch City Council approved the purchase of AI-assisted technology systems for the police department, a one-year 3% COLA pay raise for police officers, traffic calming devices for Sycamore Drive and 30 more police emergency radios. The council postponed approving the contract expansion with U.S. DOJ police department monitor. They also received some good news about the City’s investments, received and approved the 2025 Annual Military Equipment Report from the police department and approved the 2025 Urban Water Management Plan and Water Shortage Contingency Plan.
Bernal Participates Remotely Due to Illness
Only three council members attended in-person with Mayor Ron Bernal participating remotely, but his location was not included in the agenda as was required of District 1 Councilwoman Tamisha Torres-Walker during the last two meetings. She participated remotely in the last council meeting from a resort and spa in Santa Cruz after proper notification. That followed her being denied the opportunity to participate in the prior meeting due to an error by Acting City Manager Ana Cortez, even though the councilwoman did provide her location prior to the meeting as required. However, different rules applied this time because Bernal was sick. (See related articles here, here and here)
Mayor Pro Tem and District 3 Councilman Don Freitas presided over the meeting, with only Torres-Walker and District 2 Councilman Louie Rocha in attendance and District 4 Councilwoman Monica Wilson absent.
At the beginning of Tuesday’s meetings, which started with a Closed Session at 3:30 p.m., Bernal was asked to confirm his attendance by Freitas. The mayor, via Zoom said, “I affirm my attendance. I, Ron Bernal, Mayor of the City of Antioch, am unable to attend tonight’s meeting due to a contagious illness and am appearing remotely under just cause pursuant to California Government Code Section 54953.8.3. My wife, Irma, will be the only person, the only adult in the room with me and I will participate via both audio and visual technology throughout the entirety of the meeting. Mr. City Clerk, I ask that you please record my remote appearance under just cause, in the official meeting minutes for the record. Thank you.”
“So noted,” City Clerk Michael Mandy responded.
“And your attendance, roll call,” Freitas asked.
“My attendance is remote tonight so Mayor Pro Tem Freitas will be presiding over tonight’s meeting,” Bernal added.
“It is affirmative,” Freitas responded.
“The mayor has confirmed his attendance,” Mandy stated.
“I am present,” Bernal responded.
The council then entered Closed Session to discuss employee group contracts and nine potential lawsuits. That was followed by a Special Meeting Study Session on the Fiscal Year 2027-28 General Fund Budget at 5:30 p.m. which was followed by the Regular Meeting.
Regular Meeting
Bernal repeated his confirmation to participate remotely at the beginning of the Regular Meeting which was again noted by Mandy.
City Attorney Lori Asuncion said there was nothing to report out from Closed Session.
Resident Loretta Ezeife offers her appreciation and about her background after being appointed to the Sales Tax Citizens’ Oversight Committee and then given the oath of office and congratulated by City Clerk Michael Mandy while surrounded by her family. Video screenshots.
The council then moved up Item 8 the appointment of Loretta Ezeife to the Sales Tax Citizens’ Oversight Committee after Item 2 on the agenda. She was appointed on a 4-0 vote of the council. Ezeife then offered remarks and thanked the mayor for nominating her and was given the oath of office by City Clerk Mandy while she was surrounded by her family members.
City of Antioch Accrual Basis Earnings 2016-26. Source: PFM Asset Management
The council, under Item 5, received the Investment Performance Review presented by Justin Ressuelo, Institutional Sales and Relationship Manager of PFM Asset Management, the City’s advisors. The report shows the City has experienced Accrual Basis Earnings from its investments of almost $51 million over the past 10 years and earned $1.2 million in interest over the past three months, $4.9 million over the past year and $13.7 million over the past three years.
Traffic Calming Devices on Sycamore Drive
Rocha wanted to know why the traffic calming devices proposed for Sycamore Drive, under Item 6.H. on the Consent Calendar, were moved up ahead of those proposed for James Donlon Blvd.
“It will go out (for bid) this fall. Give us a year and we’ll have things laid out a bit better,” Public Works Director Scott Buenting stated.
Traffic Calming Devices and their locations in one of eight segments planned for Sycamore Drive. Source: City of Antioch
Bernal asked about other traffic calming throughout town in response to complaints about sideshows in intersections throughout the city.
“They’re not built into the traffic calming,” Buenting responded, “We’re working through some geometry about that. It’s not a one-size-fits-all. Most likely it’s going to be bringing out something in the middle of the intersection like a speed bump. These would be done with bolt-down apparatus. I want to get something rolled out here fairly soon…in a couple different areas…that need some sideshow deterrent.”
The Council then voted 4-0 to award the construction agreement to Martinez-based Cowan & Thompson Construction, Inc. in the amount of $488,511.94, with a $25,000 contingency for a total contract amount of $513,511.94 for the Sycamore Drive Traffic Calming Improvements Project. The devices will be placed in eight segments along the street and will include signs and raised traffic separator curb guidance systems with quick release delineator bases.
Council Postpones Decision on DOJ Settlement Agreement Monitoring Consultant
Under Item 6.K. on the Consent Calendar agenda, regarding paying for the monitoring consultant required by the settlement agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) turned out to be a surprisingly controversial matter as Freitas expressed his adamant opposition.
According to the City staff report for the item, following the U.S. DOJ investigation into the Antioch Police Department beginning in April 2023, regarding text messages containing racist, sexist and discriminatory language. As a result the City, police department and U.S. DOJ entered into a Memorandum of Agreement requiring implementation of reforms related to constitutional policing, accountability systems, data collection, complaint investigations, community engagement, hiring practices, supervision and oversight.
A key requirement requires the City and U.S. DOJ to jointly select an Independent Consultant to provide technical assistance, compliance monitoring and implementation oversight.
On March 27, 2026, the City entered into a Settlement Agreement in the Allen, et al. civil rights class action lawsuit that incorporates many of the constitutional policing reforms and accountability measures already required under the DOJ Agreement and requires the existing DOJ Monitor also serve as the Monitor under the Allen Settlement Agreement. (See related articles here and here)
The council was asked to approve the First Amendment to the Professional Services Agreement with MS Investigative Services and Consulting, LLC, to expand the scope of services to include Independent Monitoring services required under the Allen Settlement Agreement and authorizing additional compensation of $150,000 annually for monitoring services and the associated Fiscal Year 2026/27 General Fund budget amendment. If approved, the total compensation for the consultant would be $400,000 per year.
Bernal questioned paying the consultant monthly versus hourly.
Antioch Police Captain Shane Bower provided the staff report and answers to the council members’ questions.
“I have a very difficult time with a 71% increase, and I am absolutely opposed to $12,500 quarterly. He could be on vacation for a month and still get the $12,500,” Freitas stated. He also opposed paying the consultant hourly while driving from his home in Martinez to Antioch and instead wanted him to be paid the standard mileage rate.
“This is one of the most expensive consultant’s contract we have,” the Mayor Pro Tem added.
Bernal asked if the invoices can be brought back “to see how the billing has been going, so far.”
“Yes, I can bring that back,” Cortez stated.
“We have a five-year block of time. There’s a lot of additional work,” Bower responded.
“It’s in the report,” Freitas interjected.
“Mr. Sepulveda has already written the draft…that far exceeds the scope,” Bower said.
“It’s not my goal…to delay the satisfaction of the settlement,” Bernal responded.
“I support working with the existing consultant,” District 2 Councilman Louie Rocha stated. “Compensation seems to be the issue. It needs to be resolved.”
“Is that the standard in the City of Antioch? If it is it needs to come back for council discussion,” Freitas said about consultants being paid while driving to Antioch.
“There’s no doubt in my opinion that we need
“A majority of this agreement does not overlap with the DOJ agreement at all,” Police Chief Joe Vigil stated.
“As far as I’m concerned, there are concerns on the other side that we are dragging our feet. I’d hate to see us back in court,” said Torres-Walker.
If a council member makes a request and it’s ignored, that causes a delay,” Freitas responded. “We also have a fiduciary responsibility, an oversight responsibility. I think those things need to be addressed.”
“I’m suggesting we are at risk of being in violation of the settlement agreement,” Torres-Walker stated and asked for a special meeting to discuss the matter.
Following agreement between Freitas and Cortez, the matter will return to a future council meeting for additional information and action.
Photo sources: (left) Flock Safety. (right) Axon.
Approves Police Department Technology Systems Purchase
Under Item 9. on the agenda, the Council received the staff report from Antioch Police Lt. Michael Mellone on the purchase of AI-assisted automated license plate recognition, in-car camera and integrated public safety technology systems. According to the staff report, the contract includes “55 fixed automated license plate recognition (ALPR) locations using Axon Outpost, six additional Axon Fleet 3 in-car video and mobile ALPR systems, and 120 Axon AI Assistant licenses for the Police Department, for a 49-month term beginning October 1, 2026, in an amount not to exceed $661,687.54.”
“I called for dash cameras so I’m glad there’ll be more of them throughout the city,” Torres-Walker stated. She then asked about Flock license plate recognition cameras and compliance.
“We are at the forefront of being compliant, not only with the Flock license plate readers,” Mellone responded. “We don’t share with ICE or any federal agencies. That data we collect in Antioch is staying here and not being shared with anyone else.”
“I’m excited to see there will be AI translation,” the councilwoman stated.
“It’s really cool. All the officer has to do is push a button on his body-worn camera and choose whatever language…and it will translate one-to-one,” Mellone explained.
During public comments, resident Kimberly Kit Bailey asked if the cameras “are only going to be in…the troubled areas or will they be all over the city?”
“They are in all locations of the city,” Mellone responded. “We try to cover all the major entry and exit points of town. All the major thoroughfares, all the major intersections. We’re not just concentrating on certain, specific neighborhoods.”
The next public speaker was Mike Katz-Lacabe, who said he is the Director of Oakland Privacy, described as “a citizens’ coalition that works statewide to defend the right to privacy, enhance public transparency and promote oversight regarding the use of surveillance techniques and equipment.” He said, “I urge a no vote…because the staff report does not provide enough information…to justify the $660,000. There was no competitive or comparison bidding process.” He also questioned “expansion of the surveillance program” and said APD’s claim that “Motorola is decommissioning their ALPR platform…is highly suspect” because “law enforcement agencies like L.A.P.D. are continuing to purchase and deploy…technology from Motorola.”
Katz-Lacabe further complained the “staff report lacks any analysis of the effectiveness of the currently deployed license plate readers.” He also said the technology could be and is being abused and used to stalk people.
Resident Frank Sterling, speaking via Zoom said, “I am concerned about mass surveillance. I’m learning more about Axon. But one thing I have been following…is the abuses are happening where people are taking advantage of the system. I think the possibility of abuse is still there.”
Mellone responded, “I think there are some very legitimate questions and concerns. I don’t think anyone in this room wants to have their movements tracked with specificity. I don’t think we want to live in that type of society. I know I certainly don’t. It does not track people. It tracks vehicle detections. It doesn’t track driver identity. It does not maintain a live location feed on a person.”
“Only an authorized investigator can review when and where a specific license plate was captured within the (30-day) retention period, and that search must have a legitimate purpose and it’s logged, audited and tracked,” he continued. “The system records a plate image, vehicle content image and visible vehicle characteristics and the time and location of a detection.”
He also said the information from the system is available to the public.
“I understand the community’s concerns around hyper-surveillance,” Torres-Walker stated. “My position is I want to get Flock out of Antioch and if moving forward with this Axon system is going to do that with potential…reviews along the way and some guardrails to make sure we are not violating civil liberties…then I can support that. My main position right now is I really want to see Flock eliminated,” she reiterated then asked about reporting to the council.
“We’re doing that now,” Mellone stated. “We have a website with the Fock data, in spite of how controversial that is. Anyone can go to our website…we have a transparency portal.” That can be found here: Flock Safety – Antioch CA PD Transparency Portal.
“With the Axon system, it’s a closed system,” he added.
The councilwoman then asked for reasons for the sole source purchase.
Mellone explained, “There are a few reasons. We’re already using Axon’s body-worn cameras. We’re already using their digital evidence platforms. We trusted Axon with our most sensitive digital evidence. We’ve never had a data breach. All of our personnel are trained in that system. I don’t have to run audits on multiple systems.”
Councilman Rocha spoke next saying, “I support the sole-source justification and the way it’s written. It is what’s most attractive to me.”
He then made the motion to approve the purchase, and as Torres-Walker took a moment to consider seconding after Freitas asked if she wanted to, Bernal said, “I’ll second it.”
Before the vote, Freitas asked, “When will they be implemented? The first phase, I guess?”
Mellone responded, “I don’t have the exact information, the timeline. I can report back to council on that. I don’t think it’s going to be a lengthy implementation.”
Referring to Torres-Walker’s comments Freitas then suggested an annual report to the council, “giving us the detailed information, positive or negative” and asked “the maker and seconder of the motion to add that…from the date the system is implemented.”
Both Rocha and Bernal agreed to the amendment to their motion.
Bernal then asked, “What is the timeline for moving away from Flock with this new system?”
“I think a lot of it depends on how soon we can get the new system up and running,” Mellone shared. He said he didn’t want to compromise existing investigations and asked if either he or the chief could return to the council with an implementation schedule. He also mentioned the additional cost for the Flock cameras as another motivation to replace them.
“So, would the Flock cameras go first, then? Would that be the strategy?” Bernal asked.
“I will make sure that the people involved…will replace the Flock cameras as a priority,” Mellone responded.
“The existing Flock contract we have another 12 months,” Chief Vigil stated.
“But we could end that,” Torres-Walker asked.
“I’d have to get with the City Attorney on ending that,” Vigil responded.
Freitas then asked that the police department leaders return in the next few weeks with answers to the council members questions.
The amended motion then passed on a 4-0 vote.
CCWD Water Supply Facilities Map. Antioch receives some of its water from CCWD.
Other Council Action
In other action, the Council voted 4-0 to approve the 2025 Urban Water Management Plan and the Water Shortage Contingency Plan. The City’s water supply consists primarily of surface water diverted from the San Joaquin River and water purchased from Contra Costa Water District (CCWD). Untreated surface water from the San Joaquin River is pumped to the City’s Municipal Reservoir, where it is stored prior to treatment at the City’s Water Treatment Plant. This untreated surface water may also be routed to the Brackish Water Desalination Plant (BWDP).
Photos: (l-r) Motorola, Herald file, Antioch PD
Plus, except for Items 6.H. and 6.K., the Council also unanimously approved the Consent Calendar which included the following:
Item 6.I. – the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the City of Antioch and the Antioch Police Officers’ Association including a 3% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for Fiscal Year 2026-27 at a cost of $661,430 and other matters;
Item 6.G. – the purchase of 30 additional Motorola APX N70 handheld two-way emergency radios for the police department’s communications, including accessories and five years of subscriber and device management services, from Motorola Solutions in an amount not to exceed $300,717.21;
Item 6.J. – received and approved the 2025 Annual Military Equipment Report from the police department. The equipment includes:
Armored Rescue Vehicle
Mobile Command Center box truck
Specialized Firearms and Ammunition:
A. Geissele Border Patrol Rifle. Quantity 26
B. Colt ArmaLite Rifle (AR)-15 rifle. Quantity 41
C. M4 AR-15 rifle. Quantity 6
D. Colt Commando Short Barrel (SB) rifle. Quantity 10
E. Heckler & Koch (H&K) UMP. Quantity 5
F. Remington 700 bolt action rifle. Quantity 5
G. Federal brand .223 caliber rifle ammunition. Quantity 326 cases
J. Cobalt Kinetics Scrambler Quick Detach Suppressor. Quantity 35
4. Kinetc Energy Projectile Launch Platforms and Projectiles
a. Penn Arms Model L140-4. Quantity 20.
b. Remington 870 Less lethal Shotgun. Quantity 2
i. Both have orange stocks and foregrips and are identified as non-lethal munition launchers.
c. Projectiles
i. Combined Tactical Systems (CTS) direct impact sponge round. Quantity 200
ii. CTS Frangible CS round. Quantity 60
iii. CTS Ferrett round. Quantity 100
iv. CTS LC5 Launching Cups. Quantity 4
v. CTS 2600 12-gauge launch cartridge. Quantity 60
According to the report, “The Antioch Police Department used specific military equipment in five incidents (in 2025). An audit…found no complaints regarding deploying or using the listed equipment. Internal audits of the listed equipment regarding deployment and use did not yield any policy violations or deployment concerns.”
In English and Spanish; for third term, faces Joy Motts for third time
By Allen D. Payton
Although she completed filing last month, in a post on her official Facebook page on Monday, August 24, 2026, incumbent District 1 Antioch City Councilwoman Tamisha Torres-Walker announced her re-election campaign to a third term. Actually, if elected it will be her second-and-a-half term as she was elected in 2020 for a two-year term following council districting and for a full, four-year term in 2022. Once again, Torres-Walker faces former Councilwoman Joy Motts, for a third time, having first unseating Motts by 212 votes, then defeating her again in 2022 by just four votes following a recount. (Note: This reporter helped raise funds to pay for the recount).
However, in those races, there were three candidates running and splitting the vote. This time it’s a one-on-one contest.
Torres-Walker’s campaign slogans this year are, “Putting Working Families First” and “Leading with Clarity, Steadiness, and Care.”
In her candidate statement, Torres-Walker’s ballot designation is listed as Councilwoman/Nonprofit Executive, working as Executive Director for the Richmond-based Safe Return Project, according to her LinkedIn profile. The councilwoman is a Co-Founder of the organization according to their website, and describes it as “a campaign to secure the freedom and liberation of formerly incarcerated individuals.”
She first posted in English then in Spanish writing, “I’m running for re-election as Antioch City Council member representing District 1 this November.
“My leadership has been focusing on the people and the solution, not just the fight. We need local leaders who will run toward the difficulties facing our communities rather than turn a blind eye. Antioch needs a leader who won’t let inequity go unaddressed while others conduct business as usual.
In Spanish she wrote, “Me postulo para la reelección como miembro del Concejo Municipal de Antioch, en representación del Distrito 1, este mes de noviembre.
“Mi liderazgo se ha enfocado en las personas y en encontrar soluciones, no simplemente en la confrontación. Necesitamos líderes locales que den la cara a las dificultades que afectan a nuestras comunidades, en lugar de hacerse de la vista gorda. Antioch necesita un líder que no permita que las desigualdades queden sin atender mientras otros intentan seguir haciendo negocios como de costumbre.
“¡Soy esa líder!”
On her campaign website Torres-Walker offers additional messages of, “Proven leadership. Community-rooted change. A stronger Antioch for everyone” and “Leadership Focused on People and Solutions,” and a list of her accomplishments in office.
Under the title of “Building Antioch’s Next Chapter” she writes, “My vision is an Antioch where every neighborhood is safe, every family can afford a stable home, every young person has opportunities to succeed, and every resident can see themselves represented in their local government.”
Torres-Walker offers seven commitments if elected for another term. She writes, “I will continue working to:
Expand community-based violence prevention and youth programs
Protect renters and increase pathways to affordable home ownership.
Address homelessness through housing, services and long-term solutions.
Strengthen police accountability and improve community trust.
Support seniors, veterans, working families and people with disabilities.
Bring responsible development, good jobs and new economic opportunities to Antioch.
Make City Hall more transparent, accessible and accountable to the people it serves.
She summarizes her platform as, “Affordable Housing; Safe Neighborhoods; Good Jobs and a Strong Local Economy; Youth Opportunity; Transparent, Accountable Government; and One Antioch.”
Torres-Walker finishes her message with, “We have shown what is possible when residents organize, speak up and demand something better. Now, I am ready to build on that progress and continue moving Antioch forward—with courage, experience and a commitment to leaving no one behind.
“Let’s continue building an Antioch where every family has the opportunity to thrive.”
Her candidate statement shares more of her accomplishments and ends with, “There’s more work ahead, and I’m not backing down. I’m asking for your vote, so I can keep fighting for an Antioch that works for all of us.”
DUI driver sideswiped another car, nearly hit pedestrian, drives wrong way
Held on $75,000 bail for 3 felonies, 3 misdemeanors
By Lt. Gary Lowther #4032, Antioch Police Field Services Division
On Sunday, August 23, 2026, at approximately 2:14 p.m., Antioch Police officers were dispatched to reports of a white Volkswagen Tiguan being driven erratically near the 1500 block of Yellowstone Drive in Antioch. According to callers, the vehicle had sideswiped another vehicle and nearly struck a pedestrian before continuing through the area.
Officers located the Volkswagen on Hillcrest Avenue near East 13th Street. The vehicle had two flat tires and significant body damage consistent with multiple collisions. When an officer attempted to conduct a traffic stop, the driver failed to yield, initiating a low-speed pursuit.
Despite the relatively low speeds, the driver continued to operate the vehicle erratically, including driving into oncoming traffic lanes while traveling along Hargrove Street toward East 18th Street. Due to the continued threat to public safety, officers continued the pursuit.
Once inside the parking lot, the vehicle slowed, allowing responding officers to box it in.
The driver, later identified as 39-year-old Felicia Marie Jackson (born 01/28/1987), attempted to escape by intentionally ramming a patrol vehicle. Officers safely removed Jackson from the vehicle and took her into custody.
Two patrol vehicles were damaged during the incident, and one officer sustained minor cuts from broken glass. No other injuries were reported.
Jackson was treated at a local hospital as a precaution and was subsequently booked at the Martinez Detention Facility on felony charges of Penal Code § 245(c) (Assault on a Peace Officer with a Deadly Weapon) and Vehicle Code § 2800.4 (Evading a Peace Officer While Driving Against Traffic) and misdemeanor charges of Vehicle Code § 23152(a) (Driving Under the Influence) and Vehicle Code § 20002 (Hit and Run). Incident Number: 2608230110. Case Number: 26-8011.
This information was made available by the Field Services Division.
According to the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, the five-foot, six-inch tall, 175-pound Jackson is Hispanic, but is also listed as White, as does the Antioch Police CitizenRIMS arrest log, and is being held in the West County Detention Center on $75,000 bail and also charged with a third misdemeanor of 148(A)(1) PC resisting, delaying or obstructing a Peace Officer.
According to localcrimenews.com, she is an Oakley resident and was previously arrested in January 2025 for a Warrants or Holds Only.
By Captain Matthew Koch #3018, Antioch Police Field Services Division
On Friday, August 21, 2026, at 10:31 p.m., Antioch Police officers responded to a report of a pedestrian struck by a vehicle at the intersection of Hillcrest Avenue and the eastbound Highway 4 off-ramp. The involved vehicle fled the scene following the collision.
Upon arrival, officers located a 24-year-old Antioch woman lying on the sidewalk. Officers immediately provided medical aid until Con Fire personnel arrived. The victim was transported to an area hospital with major injuries and remains in critical condition.
Witnesses at the scene provided officers with a description of the suspect vehicle. Officers later located the vehicle in the 2800 block of Larkspur Drive in Antioch. The driver fled the area before officers could make contact. Investigators are currently reviewing evidence and working to identify the 40-year-old Hispanic male driver.
The Antioch Police Department’s Traffic Unit has taken over the investigation. The collision investigation remains ongoing, and the victim’s name is being withheld at this time.
Based on preliminary information gathered at the scene, speed and alcohol appear to be factors in the collision.
This information was made available by the Traffic Unit. Any further information or additional press releases will be provided by the Traffic Unit.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Antioch Police Department non-emergency line at (925) 778-2441 or Traffic Collision Investigator James Desiderio at (925) 331-7474, email jdesiderio@antiochca.gov.
Hold 2027-28 General Fund Budget Study Session to address projected $15.2 million deficit
Closed Session on employee group contracts, 9 potential lawsuits
By Allen D. Payton
During their meeting on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, the Antioch City Council will vote on a one-year MOU with the Antioch Police Officers Association at a cost of $661,000, purchasing AI-assisted automated license plate recognition, in-car camera and integrated public safety technology systems for the police department at a cost of $662,000, additional handheld two-way radios for APD emergency communications at a cost of $300,000, spending $500,000 on Sycamore Drive Traffic Calming Improvements, expanding the contract for the consultant required by the DOJ Allen Settlement Agreement at a cost of $150,000 and appoint one member to the Sales Tax Citizens’ Oversight Committee.
The Council will also receive the 2025 Annual Military Equipment Report from the police department and an Investment Performance Review presented by the City’s advisors, FM Asset Management, and hold a public hearing on the 2025 Urban Water Management Plan and Water Shortage Contingency Plan.
Closed Session
Prior to the Regular Meeting that begins at 7:00 p.m., the Council will hold a Closed Session at 3:30 PM for a Conference with Labor Negotiators to discuss contracts for the Antioch Public Works Employee Association (APWEA), Antioch Police Sworn Management Association (APSMA), Confidential Unit, and Management Unit and a Conference with Legal Counsel for “significant exposure to litigation” as the City faces nine potential cases.
Antioch General Fund 2026-27 adjusted Budget and 2027-28 Projected Budget. Source: City of Antioch
2027-28 General Fund Budget Study Session
Then at 5:30 p.m. the Council will hold a Special Meeting Budget Study Session to discuss the Fiscal Year 2027-28 General Fund Budget Development. Acting City Manager Ana Cortez and Finance Director Dawn Merchant say the City’s consultant is projecting a decrease in sales tax revenue of $700,000 to $1.68 million for this Fiscal Year.
According to their report for Item SM-1 on the agenda, “even with the extensive work that was done (on the FY 2026-27 budget), we still did not manage to completely close the 2026-27 spending gap, and the forecast provided in June 2026 for 2027-28 was daunting, at almost $15M.
“Detrimental decreases to our sales tax budgets from the latest projections from our consultant…projecting the City’s fiscal year 2026-27 regular sales tax to decline $1,139,000, and Measure W to decline $538,000, carrying this decrease into fiscal year 2027-28. However, these projections are based only through the first quarter reporting of calendar year 2026 reporting and will be further evaluated after the next sales tax quarter. We are recommending to be cautiously optimistic for fiscal year 2026-27 at this juncture and project only a $500,000 decrease in regular sales tax and $200,000 in Measure W, carrying that corresponding reduction into 2027-28.”
In addition, the “3% COLA recently approved for the APOA bargaining unit ($745,667 FY28 impact”…and “reduction of $1.2M in projected contribution to HomeKey+ project with City Council rejection of the grant…as a result…the projected 2027-28 deficit spending has increased slightly to $15.2M.”
3% Pay Raise for Antioch Police Officers
Under Item 6.I. on the Consent Calendar, the Council will vote on the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the City of Antioch and the Antioch Police Officers’ Association that will include a 3% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for Fiscal Year 2026-27 at a cost of $661,430 and other matters.
At their meeting on July 28, 2026, the council approved a tentative agreement. Staff then prepared the MOU to replace the agreement and require another vote by the council.
As reported, the previous Tentative Agreement covered the period of Sept. 1, 2021 – Aug. 31, 2025.
In addition to the 3% COLA, the Tentative Agreement includes the following:
Increase to four floating holidays in a calendar year.
Travel meal reimbursement increase to $25.00 for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
Lateral Police Officer and Dispatcher new hire vacation credit of one week upon employment.
Plus, increases to the uniform allowance, adjustments to benefits, retirement and vacation, sick leave and bereavement leave language defined and/or updated, as well as updates to the department’s grievance procedure.
Purchase Police Department AI-Assisted Integrated Technology Systems
Under agenda Item 9, the Council will consider the purchase of automated license plate recognition (ALPR), in-car camera and integrated public safety technology systems. The vote will be to approve a sole source agreement with Axon Enterprise, Inc. for 55 fixed automated license plate recognition (ALPR) locations using Axon Outpost, six additional Axon Fleet 3 in-car video and mobile ALPR systems, and 120 Axon AI Assistant licenses for the Police Department, for a 49-month term beginning October 1, 2026, in an amount not to exceed $661,687.54.
Funding for FY 2026-27 has been identified within the existing Police Department General Fund budget; payments in future fiscal years will remain subject to the annual budget process.
ALPR helps officers and investigators identify vehicles associated with shootings, robberies, burglaries, stolen vehicles, hit-and-run collisions, organized theft, missing persons, illegal sideshows, and other serious incidents.
According to the City staff report, “the Department currently operates fixed ALPR cameras through Motorola and Flock. Motorola is decommissioning its ALPR platform, and the proposed purchase would replace and consolidate the two fixed systems into a single Axon network while expanding fixed coverage. APD already uses Axon Body 4 cameras, Axon Fleet in-car cameras, and Axon Evidence as its primary digital evidence environment.”
Purchase 30 More Police Dep’t Handheld Two-Way Radios for Emergency Communications
Under Item 6.G. of the Consent Calendar the Council will consider purchasing additional handheld two-way radios for the police department’s emergency communications. The vote will be to adopt a resolution authorizing the sole source purchase of 30 Motorola APX N70 handheld two-way emergency radios, including accessories and five years of subscriber and device management services, from Motorola Solutions in an amount not to exceed $300,717.21.
City of Antioch Service & Water System Map.
Public Hearing on 2025 Urban Water Management Plan & Water Shortage Contingency Plan
During the regular meeting the council will hold a Public Hearing on the 2025 Urban Water Management Plan and Water Shortage Contingency Plan. According to the City staff report for Item 7 on the agenda, he Urban Water Management Plan (“UWMP”) Act requires all urban water suppliers serving municipal water to 3,000 customers, or supplying more than 3,000 acre-feet annually, to adopt and submit an UWMP every five years to the Department of Water Resources (“DWR”). The City of Antioch provided 5,311 million gallons (16,298 acre-feet) of potable water for municipal purposes to 34,739 connections in 2025 and thus is required to comply with the requirements of the UWMP Act and prepare an UWMP.
The City’s water supply consists primarily of surface water diverted from the San Joaquin River and water purchased from Contra Costa Water District (CCWD). Untreated surface water from the San Joaquin River is pumped to the City’s Municipal Reservoir, where it is stored prior to treatment at the City’s WTP. This untreated surface water may also be routed to the Brackish Water Desalination Plant (BWDP).
The Capital Improvement Budget includes adequate funding for the development of the Urban Water Management Plan from the Water Enterprise Fund. Compliance with the current provisions of the Urban Water Management Plan Act is expected to result in no fiscal impact to the City’s General Fund.
Traffic Calming Devices and their locations in one of eight segments planned for Sycamore Drive. Source: City of Antioch
Sycamore Drive Traffic Calming Improvements
Under Item 6.H. on the Consent Calendar, the council will consider awarding a construction agreement to the lowest, responsive, and responsible bidder, Martinez-based Cowan & Thompson Construction, Inc. in the amount of $488,511.94, with a $25,000 contingency for a total contract amount of $513,511.94 for the Sycamore Drive Traffic Calming Improvements Project.
According to the City staff report, the FY 2026/27 Capital Improvement Budget includes $425,000 of Gas Tax funding for the project. Approval will increase the allocation by $89,000. The projected June 30th balance of Gas Tax funds with this amendment is projected to be $1,014,298.
The devices will be placed in eight segments along the street and will include signs and raised traffic separator curb guidance systems with quick release delineator bases.
See Project plans for all planned traffic calming device locations on Sycamore Drive.
Under agenda Item 8 the Council will vote on appoint Dr, Loretta Ezeife to the Sales Tax Citizens’ Oversight Committee for a full-term vacancy expiring March 2030. According to her application, she has lived in Antioch since 2008 and works as the Accounting Officer for the University of the Pacific in Stockton, “with over 25 years of experience overseeing financial operations across private industry, public agencies, and higher education.”
Meeting Details
The meeting will be held in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 200 H Street, in historic, downtown Rivertown and can be viewed via livestream on the City’s website or on Comcast cable TV channel 24 or AT&T U-verse channel 99.
See the complete agenda packet with staff reports here.
