Will also deal with legal matters including the ongoing civil rights class action lawsuit, potential lawsuit with “significant exposure” and two cases; Measure W spending & Economic Development reports
By Allen D. Payton
During a Special Meeting before their regular meeting on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, the Antioch City Council will discuss development of the 2026-27 Fiscal Year budget with a potential $13.5 to $14.1 million deficit. During their regular meeting the council members will also discuss approving an AI assistant for police dispatch, and receive reports on both Measure W spending, which has decreased the amount for police down to 65.4%, and economic development.
Closed Session, Lawsuits & Property Negotiations
But first, at 4:00 p.m., the Council will hold a Closed Session during which they will discuss the ongoing Trent Allen, et al. v. City of Antioch, et al., civil rights class action lawsuit that’s not yet completely settled. (See related articles here and here) They will also discuss a potential lawsuit described as, Significant Exposure to Litigation. The description for that agenda item reads, “The City is in receipt of information concerning facts and circumstances that might result in litigation against the City which are known to a potential plaintiff and that pertain to potential claims by the potential plaintiff against the City. Two cases.”
Finally, the Closed Session agenda item 3, the Council will enter into Real Property Negotiations with Lone Tree Golf & Event Center Manager Ron Parish for two properties, 4800 Golf Course Road and West 1st Street. The City owns both the Lynn House and the old Mayor Hard House on that street. Questions were sent Monday night to the mayor, council members and city staff asking for clarification on the latter item. Please check back later for any updates to this report.
Source: City of Antioch
Budget Study Session
At 5:00 p.m., the Council will hold Special Meeting/Study Session on the 2026-27 Fiscal Year Budget Development. The City is facing a double-digit deficit of $13.5 million to $14.1 million depending if the council approves increasing the number of sworn police officers to 117.
AI Assistant for Police Dispatch
During their regular meeting, under the Consent Calendar Item J., the council will consider approving a Sole Source Agreement with Prepared to provide an AI assistive call taking system for the Police Department Dispatch Center for a two-year term, in an amount not to exceed $248,400 for Years 1 through 2, with an option to extend for three additional years.
According to the city staff report, “The Dispatch Center is currently operating with four Dispatcher vacancies out of 17 allocated positions (13 Dispatchers and 4 Leads), representing an approximately 24% vacancy rate. Call demand remains consistently high. The Police Dispatch Center handled approximately 72,000 9-1-1 calls in both 2024 and 2025. Non-emergency call activity remained steady as well, at approximately 208,000 calls annually. In addition to phone call volume, the Police Department handled 86,185 calls for service incidents in 2025, including AQCRT (Community Response Team) calls, which require ongoing dispatch coordination beyond the initial intake.”
Assistive call taking technology is intended to support Dispatchers, not replace them with the following:
Improve Service for Non-Emergency Callers and Reduce Hold Times
Support Emergency Calls Through “Co-Pilot” Functionality
Improve Documentation and Reduce Staff Time Spent on Records Requests
Expand Language Access and Support DOJ (Department of Justice) MOA (Memorandum of Understanding) Obligations
Measure W Sales Tax Citizens’ Oversight Committee Annual Report
Under Consent Calendar agenda Item N. the Council will receive the Sales Tax Citizens’ Oversight Committee Fiscal Year 2024-25 Annual Report on Measure W (1% Sales Tax). It will show the amount being spent on police has decreased from 80%, as originally intended, to now, just 65.4%.
Economic Development Update
In addition, according to the City staff report for agenda item 7, the Council receive an update on the City’s Economic Development activities and progress, provide policy direction as appropriate, and offer feedback to staff on priorities and the timing of subsequent updates to the City Council. The matter is part of the Council’s 6-Month Priority list.
Meeting Details
The regular meeting will begin at 7:00 p.m. The latter two meetings will be held in the Council Chambers at 200 H Street, or can be viewed via livestream on the City’s website or on Comcast cable TV channel 24 or AT&T U-verse channel 99.
Learn about the Juan Bautista de Anza Expedition in Contra Costa County and throughout California as the Declaration of Independence was being signed
By LeighAnn Davis, Executive Director, Contra Costa County Historical Society
As our nation approaches its 250th anniversary, land managers, historians, educators and civic leaders across the East Bay formed the East Bay Anza 250 Symposium committee dedicated to exploring a parallel milestone: the 250th anniversary of the Juan Bautista de Anza expedition. This journey profoundly shaped California’s history and continues to influence our communities today.
Anza Expedition Map. Source: National Park Service
According to the National Park Service, the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail covers over 1,200 miles through the homelands of 70+ Tribal communities including in Contra Costa County. It follows the historic route of the 1775-76 Spanish colonizing expedition from Sonora, Mexico to San Francisco, CA. Whether urban or rural, the trail offers adventure, diverse cultural perspectives and an opportunity to experience history.
Painting by David Rickman. Courtesy of U.S. National Park Service
On June 27, 1776, as the Declaration of Independence was being signed in Philadelphia, the colonists of the Anza expedition arrived at their destination in what would become San Francisco. Both of these events would dramatically shape the cultural and political landscapes of the United States. In 2025 and 2026, the Anza Trail invites communities along the historic path of the 1775-76 colonizing expedition to commemorate the complicated and evermore fascinating history of the paths and events that make up this National Historic Trail.
Third leg map of the Anza expedition shows campsites 99, 100 and 101 in Contra Costa County. Map created by Emanuel Delgado. Source: National Park Service
Campsites and Trail in Contra Costa County
A map of the Third Leg of the Anza Expedition shows three campsites in Contra Costa County with the Arroyo del Puerto Dulce campsite 99 in Rodeo, the Arroyo de Santa Ana del Flugino campsite 100 in Concord and the San Ricardo campsite 101 along the Antioch/Oakley border.
According to the Juan Bautista de Anza Historic Trail website, “On April 1st (1776) the group camped at a small stream. Today, the campsite is at the conjunction of Parker and San Pablo Avenues and Rodeo Creek. A commemorative marker from the 1976 reenactment is on Parker Road between 4th and 6th Streets in front of the post office in the town of Rodeo.”
The Anza Expedition campsite 99 historic marker in Rodeo, campsite 100 historic marker in Concord and campsite 101 historic marker at the Antioch/Oakley Regional Shoreline. Photos by Andrew Ruppenstein. Source: The Historical Marker Database HMdb.org
The East Bay Anza 250 Symposium will take place on Saturday, April 11, 2026, 9AM-4PM and is a collaborative gathering that explores the expedition’s impact on the East Bay, honors Indigenous legacies, and fosters dialogue about how this history informs our present.
The symposium will include:
Live Performances
Keynote Speakers
Panel Discussions that Dive into the History, Teaching, and Environmental Impacts of the Expedition.
An Exhibit Hall Filled with Cultural Exhibitions and Displays
Symposium registration is $30 for General Admission and $20 for students and seniors.
Lunch is included in your registration fee if reserved before April 1st, 2026.
To register, please visit the Eventbrite site for Grassroots Poetry using the QR code.
Keynote Speakers: Our speaker series brings together a vibrant tapestry of voices to explore the multifaceted legacy of the Anza Expedition. By pairing the scholarly insights of local historians and naturalists with the deeply personal narratives of expedition descendants, we aim to provide an inclusive history that honors the trail’s complex past.
Panel Discussions: Join our interdisciplinary panels, featuring local historians, expert naturalists, and descendants of the expedition, for a compelling look at the impact of Anza 250 years later. These sessions bring together diverse voices to explore the environmental, cultural, and personal history of the trail, offering a unique, in-depth, and engaging perspective on this historic journey.
Exhibit Hall: Our Exhibit Hall is a testament to the power of community partnership. The exhibit hall is a collaborative space showcasing exhibits and information from local historical societies and land management agencies. Connect with local experts in this dedicated space for a deeper, context-rich understanding of the historical and cultural significance of the Anza Trail.
Event Information:
The Event is Saturday, April 11th, 2026, from 9AM until 4PM with a lunch break at noon. An optional walk will take place along the trail that intersects with the LMC campus at 8AM. All members of the community are invited to join us and enjoy the speakers, poets and music guests!
We encourage all symposium attendees to consider alternate ways to get to campus. You can bike, walk, carpool or take public transportation. If you plan to arrive by car, parking is free on the day of the event. More information about how to get to campus here: LMC Transportation and Parking Information
Thank you to all our partners for your support:
Grassroots Poetry
Independent Arts and Media
Los Medanos College Honors Program
National Park Service
Anza Trail Foundation
Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta Conservancy
Contra Costa County Historical Society
Museum of the San Ramon Valley
For more information contact Dwayne Eubanks, Chair East Bay Anza 250 Symposium at EastBayAnza@gmail.com.
This event is brought to you by Grassroots Poetry and Los Medanos Honors Program and fiscally sponsored by Independent Arts Media, a 501(c)3 organization.
On Saturday, March 21, 2026, our Dispatch Center received multiple calls reporting a large group of approximately 50 dirt bikes and minibikes traveling throughout the city. Callers advised the group was riding recklessly, weaving in and out of traffic, and was being assisted by several vehicles blocking intersections.
Officers monitored the situation and used drones to track the group safely. When conditions allowed, officers made contact with several riders. Four mini bikes were towed and one additional dirt bike driver was cited.
According to Sgt. Rob Green, “The drivers ranged in age from 15 to 20 years old. Initially there were about 50 but it ended up being 100 riders involved. We could tell this was a mass organized event because a lot of them were in clothing that advertised it, called ‘Antioch Rideout 2026.’”
We are thankful for the community members who reported this activity and helped us respond quickly and safely. Reckless riding of this nature puts not only the participants at risk, but also other motorists, pedestrians, and families in our community.
Pancho “John” Salvador, 94, passed away peacefully March 16, 2026, in Bakersfield, CA. Born September 30, 1931, in Sherman Island, CA, he spent most of his life in the East Bay and graduated from Pittsburg High School.
John served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War and was honorably discharged. He married Ada Tanzo on July 22, 1956, and together they raised three children: Jay, Wendy, and Tod.
A mechanic by trade, John later worked for the Antioch Unified School District until retirement. He was known for his ability to fix almost anything and was a trusted mechanic to many.
He enjoyed boating, gardening, photography, motorcycles, and time with family. He and Ada moved to Bakersfield in 2005.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Ada; his son, Jay; his parents; and several siblings. He is survived by his daughter, Wendy (Paul); his son, Tod; six grandchildren; six great-grandchildren.
Mass will be held on March 26, 2026, at 11:00 AM, Most Holy Rosary Catholic Church, 1313 A Street, Antioch. Interment to follow at Oak View Memorial Park, Antioch. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a local hospice organization.
Join Mayor Ron Bernal on Thursday, April 2, 2026, for a community conversation with state leaders, featuring State Senator Grayson and California State Treasurer Fiona Ma.
This town hall brings together local and state leadership to discuss issues impacting Antioch and the region. Residents will have the opportunity to hear updates, ask questions and engage directly with leaders working on behalf of our community.
Be part of the conversation and help shape Antioch’s future.
The event will be held at the Antioch Water Park Community Room at Prewett Family Park, 4701 Lone Tree Way from 6:00-7:30 PM.
In response to allegations against the late farm workers’ union leader
By Juliet V. Casey Geary, Director of Marketing & Media Design, Los Medanos College
Greetings from Los Medanos College,
In light of recent news concerning César Chávez and allegations of abuse of women and minors, Los Medanos College (LMC) is reorienting the awards that honored his legacy to focus instead on the collective work and values that are being recognized to strengthen community, social justice, labor rights and leadership. Since 1995, LMC has honored generations of activists, service providers, educators, students and more. We are proud of that tradition and will continue to honor the leaders born out of East Contra Costa County’s agricultural community. This year we will offer La Fuerza del Pueblo: Farmworkers’ Movement Legacy Awards.
Honorees will receive recognition at 6 p.m. on Friday, April 3, 2026, in the Student Union Conference Center, 2700 E. Leland Road in Pittsburg. La Fuerza del Pueblo in English means the power of the people. This event recognizes community members who stand as models of service, activism and non-violent social change. This year’s award categories include:
Exemplary Community Service
For long-standing commitment to service to others, sacrifice, helping the most needy, determination, non-violence, acceptance of all people, respect for life and the environment, celebrating community, knowledge, and innovation.
East County Educator Award
For demonstrating a commitment to student success and equity, particularly for students of color and those from low-income families.
La Fuerza del Pueblo Spirit Award
For emerging/student leader(s) who embodies the spirit of the movement, and who within the past year, made a significant impact on the local community in the areas of advocacy and social justice.
Legacy Award Values
Service to Others: Empowering individuals by engendering self-determination, self-sufficiency and self-help, rather than charity.
Sacrifice: Recognizing the obligation every individual has to contribute to their community, despite having to endure great hardship.
Help the Most Needy: Supporting efforts to reach those in need, those dispossessed, and those most forgotten individuals.
Determination: Instilling an attitude that through steadfast commitment, patience, and optimism, people can overcome great adversity.
Non-violence: Achieving social and economic justice and equality through bold and courageous action.
Tolerance: Promoting and supporting ethnic and cultural diversity as a means toward informing and strengthening communities.
Respect for Life: Holding land, people, and all other forms of life in the highest regard.
Celebrating Community: Sharing expressions of cultural identity through art, song and dance.
Knowledge: Pursuing self-directed learning, the development of critical thinking, and constructive problem-solving.
Innovation: Creating strategies and tactics to resolve problems and situations that often seem insurmountable.
About Los Medanos College (LMC): LMC is one of three colleges in the Contra Costa Community College District, serving the East Contra Costa County community. Established in 1974, LMC has earned federal designations as a Minority-Serving and Hispanic-Serving institution. It offers award-winning transfer and career-technical programs support services, and diverse academic opportunities in an inclusive learning environment. With exceptional educators, innovative curriculum, growing degree and certificate offerings, and state-of-the-art facilities, the college prepares students to succeed in their educational pursuits, in the workforce, and beyond. LMC’s Pittsburg Campus is located on 120 acres bordering Antioch, with an additional education center in Brentwood.
Chief Joe Vigil (2nd from right in left photo) is joined by award winners including (l-r) Civilian Employee of the Year Crime Analyst Mike Raney, Dispatcher of the Year Autumn Turnage and Officer of the Year Steven Miller. (Right) Life Saving Awards were presented to (L-R) Detective Geoffrey Morris, Sergeant Robert Green, and Officer Kyle Smith. All photos: Antioch PD
Including Dispatcher & Civilian Employee of the Year and Distinguished Service & Life Saving Awards; Chief Vigil shares reasons each was honored
By Antioch Police Department
Monday night, March 8, 2026, the Antioch Police Department had the honor of recognizing several employees for their outstanding work and dedication to our community. Awards presented included Officer of the Year, Dispatcher of the Year, Civilian Employee of the Year, Distinguished Service Award and Life Saving Awards.
Antioch Police Captain Desmond Bittner is thanked by Lt. Franco Cesar during the annual awards ceremony. Lt. William Whitaker (inset) was also honored.
We also recognized Captain Desmond Bittner for his leadership and work with the SWAT Team, and Lieutenant William “Bill” Whitaker for his dedication to the K-9 Team.
During the ceremony, Chief Joe Vigil shared about each of the award winners and the reasons they were honored:
2025 Antioch Police Officer of Year Steven Miller is congratulated by Captain Shane Bower (left) and with Chief Vigil (right).
Officer of the Year – Officer Steven Miller
This nomination recognizes an officer whose exceptional work ethic, unwavering dedication to the Field Training Officer program, proactive policing style, and consistently high-quality investigative work have made a significant impact on the Antioch Police Department over the past year.
This officer consistently demonstrates a level of professionalism and commitment that exceeds the expectations of the position. Their work ethic is evident in daily performance, reliability, and a willingness to take initiative without prompting. Every assignment is approached with focus, accountability, and a strong sense of responsibility, setting a positive example for peers and newer officers alike.
As a Field Training Officer, this individual has shown outstanding dedication to developing the next generation of officers. They take the responsibility of training seriously, investing the time and effort necessary to ensure that trainees are not only competent, but confident, ethical, and officer-safe. Their ability to teach, mentor, and lead by example has had a direct and positive impact on the overall quality of officers entering solo patrol.
This officer is also recognized as extremely proactive in the field. Rather than waiting for problems to arise, they actively seek out criminal activity, identify patterns and trends, and take enforcement action that enhances public safety. This proactive mindset has resulted in numerous arrests, significant seizures, and meaningful law enforcement contacts that may not have occurred without their initiative and awareness.
In addition, this officer has developed a strong reputation for the preparation and execution of search warrants. Their warrants are thorough, articulate, and legally sound, reflecting a strong understanding of case law and investigative procedure. Attention to detail and a commitment to constitutional policing have contributed to successful investigations and prosecutions while minimizing risk to the department.
In every aspect of their work whether mentoring new officers, proactively policing the community, or conducting detailed investigative work this officer exemplifies the professionalism, dedication, and leadership that define the best of our department.
For these reasons, it is my honor to recognize this year’s Officer of the Year Steven Miller.
2025 Antioch Police Dispatcher of the Year Autumn Turnage with Dispatch Manager Stacey Malsom during the ceremony.
Dispatcher of the Year – Autumn Turnage
It is my honor for Dispatcher of the Year in recognition of an individual whose professionalism, sound judgment, and dedication to public safety have made a profound impact on the department and the community. Dispatchers serve as the critical first point of contact in emergencies, often managing life-and-death situations while ensuring officer safety in rapidly evolving circumstances. The individual being recognized today exemplifies the very best of this profession.
On Christmas Eve of 2024, while working a 16-hour shift, this dispatcher answered a 911 call from a man whose boat had sunk, leaving him stranded in the water and fearing for his life. Over the course of nearly an hour, the dispatcher remained on the line as a steady voice during an extremely emotional and frightening situation. The caller repeatedly stated he could not feel his legs, believed he was going to die, and asked that his father and sister be told that he loved them.
Throughout the call, the dispatcher coordinated critical information between multiple agencies, including GPS coordinates and Rapid Deploy location pings, in order to assist the Coast Guard in locating the victim. While maintaining calm and reassurance for the caller, the dispatcher carried the heavy weight of knowing that time was running out. At 12:02 a.m. on Christmas morning, the Coast Guard successfully rescued the man and brought him safely to shore. The rescue later received regional and national media attention, highlighting the dispatcher’s role in saving a life.
In addition to these extraordinary incidents, this dispatcher serves as one of the department’s top Communications Training Officers and has been instrumental in the development of new dispatch personnel. Known for patience, thoroughness, and an approachable personality, this individual creates an environment where trainees feel comfortable asking questions and learning the complexities of the profession. In 2025 alone, this dispatcher trained three new dispatchers over a period of approximately six months.
Through professionalism, dedication, and a genuine commitment to helping others, this individual has made a lasting impact on the department, the officers in the field, and the community they serve. Their work reflects the highest standards of the communications profession.
For consistent excellence, extraordinary performance under pressure, and a deep commitment to public safety, it is my honor to recognize this year’s Dispatcher of the Year Autumn Turnage.
2025 Antioch Police Civilian Employee of the Year Crime Analyst Mike Raney is congratulated by Captain Desmond Bittner during the awards ceremony.
Civilian Employee of the Year – Crime Analyst Mike Raney
It is my honor to present for Civilian of the Year in recognition of an individual whose exceptional dedication, professionalism, and unwavering commitment have made a significant impact on the mission of the Antioch Police Department.
Serving as a Crime Analyst, this individual consistently performs far beyond the expectations of the position. During a year marked by staffing shortages and increased operational demands, they stepped up without hesitation to ensure that critical investigative and analytical functions continued without disruption. Their initiative and work ethic directly contributed to the success of numerous investigations and helped maintain the overall effectiveness of the department.
Over the past year alone, this person completed more than 100 cellular phone extractions, providing vital digital evidence that proved instrumental in multiple criminal cases. In addition, they authored more than 50 search warrants, demonstrating both strong technical expertise and a thorough understanding of legal standards. Their work has helped investigators obtain timely and lawful access to crucial evidence in complex investigations.
Beyond these measurable accomplishments, what truly sets this individual apart is a willingness to do whatever is needed to support the department. Whether assisting detectives, supporting patrol operations, handling time-sensitive requests, or stepping in to help with responsibilities outside the normal scope of their duties, this person consistently answers the call. Their reliability, adaptability, and problem-solving skills have made them an indispensable resource and a trusted partner to sworn personnel.
While much of this work happens behind the scenes, its impact is anything but hidden. The efforts of this individual have had a direct and lasting effect on public safety, case solvability, and the overall success of the department. Their dedication exemplifies the highest standards of service and reflects great credit upon themselves and the Antioch Police Department.
For extraordinary contributions, selfless commitment, and outstanding performance, it is my honor to recognize this year’s Civilian of the Year Michael Raney.
2025 Antioch Police Distinguished Service Award winner Detective Geoffrey Morris with Sargeant Dan Fachner as Sgt. Rob Green looks on.
Distinguished Service Award – Detective Geoffrey Morris
Detective Geoffrey Morris is recognized for his decisive actions, determination, and leadership during the pursuit and apprehension of an attempted residential burglary suspect on December 30, 2025.
At approximately 0950 hours, patrol units responded to reports of a male suspect moving through residential backyards and attempting to break into a home. The suspect was actively fleeing from officers and had already escalated his behavior by attempting to force entry into an occupied residence. As the suspect continued to move rapidly through neighborhood properties, his actions created an ongoing threat to the safety of local residents.
Detective Morris responded to assist patrol officers and actively participated in the search and containment efforts as updates indicated the suspect was continuing to evade law enforcement. During the operation, officers broadcast information that the suspect had fled into a large open field accessed from Empire Mine Road. When Detective Morris arrived at the location, he immediately identified a locked gate that prevented vehicle access into the area. The gate was secured with a heavy chain and multiple locks anchored by cemented posts, and the surrounding terrain prevented officers from bypassing the barrier with their vehicles. This obstacle created a significant operational challenge and provided the suspect with a critical opportunity to increase distance and escape into open terrain.
Recognizing the urgency of the situation and the importance of maintaining containment, Detective Morris took immediate action. Using physical force, he defeated the chain and locking mechanism, causing one of the locks to fail and allowing officers to open the gate. His quick and decisive action restored access to Empire Mine Road and enabled responding units to rapidly enter the field and continue the search. Without Detective Morris’s intervention, officers would have been significantly delayed at a crucial moment, greatly increasing the likelihood that the suspect would have escaped.
Shortly after officers gained access to the area, the suspect was located along a dirt path, visibly exhausted and soaked from running through wet terrain. Detective Morris immediately climbed over a four-foot barbed-wire style fence and safely took the suspect into custody without further incident, placing him in handcuffs and maintaining control through proper officer safety procedures.
Detective Morris demonstrated exceptional initiative, determination, and leadership throughout the incident. By recognizing a critical obstacle, acting immediately to overcome it, and decisively taking the suspect into custody in challenging terrain, he directly influenced the successful outcome of the operation. His actions reflect a high level of professionalism and dedication to the safety of the community.
For his outstanding performance and commitment to service, Detective Geoffrey Morris is deserving of the Distinguished Service Award.
2025 Antioch Police Department Life Saving Award winner Officer Kyle Smith is congratulated by Lt. Bill Whitaker during the ceremony.
Life Saving Award – Officer Kyle Smith
On March 18, 2023, Officer Kyle Smith to 137 Wilbur Avenue after an 11-year-old reporting party called 9-1-1 requesting immediate help for an assault in progress.
Upon arrival, Officer Smith encountered a rapidly evolving emergency. Outside the residence he observed clear signs of a violent attack, including a large amount of blood and a knife leading to the open apartment door.
Officer Smith immediately made entry and located multiple victims inside the apartment, including two juveniles, 14-year-old Oscar and 11-year-old Yaret both suffering from stab wounds. Officer Smith quickly assessed the victims and recognized that Oscar had sustained the most critical injuries, including a large open wound to the back near the left shoulder blade with significant bleeding and exposed tissue. Understanding the life-threatening nature of the injury and the urgency of the moment, Officer Smith retrieved his medical kit and immediately began lifesaving measures. He exposed the wound, packed it with gauze, and applied firm direct pressure while closely monitoring Oscar’s condition until emergency medical personnel arrived and assumed care.
Due to the severity of his injuries, Oscar was airlifted to Children’s Hospital in Oakland and was later listed in critical condition. Officer Smith’s immediate and decisive trauma care controlled the bleeding during the most critical moments following the assault and may have been the determining factor in the victim’s survival.
Despite the chaotic and emotionally charged environment, Officer Smith remained composed and continued his duties by obtaining an immediate suspect identification and broadcasting the suspect’s name over the radio. This information proved critical in assisting responding officers, ultimately leading to the suspect’s apprehension following a lengthy high-speed pursuit.
Officer Smith’s actions demonstrated exceptional judgment, composure under extreme pressure, and decisive lifesaving intervention during a critical incident involving severely injured juvenile victims. His swift medical response directly contributed to stabilizing a critically injured child prior to advanced medical treatment.
Officer Kyle Smith’s courage, professionalism, and commitment to protecting the lives of others exemplify the highest standards of the Antioch Police Department and make him deserving of the Life Saving Award. (See related articles here and here)
2025 Antioch Police Department Life Saving Award winners Sgt. Rob Green and Detective Geoffrey Morris. Green is congratulated by Sgt. Dan Fachner (right).
Life Saving Awards – Sergeant Robert Green and Detective Geoffrey Morris
On February 8, 2024, at approximately 1815 hours, officers with the Antioch Police Department responded to multiple 9-1-1 calls reporting that a vehicle had driven into the Antioch Marina boat ramp and had become submerged with the driver still inside.
Sergeant Green and Detective Morris were the first to arrive on scene and immediately observed the vehicle several yards out in the water, with the interior already completely flooded. Without hesitation and recognizing the imminent danger to the trapped occupant, both officers entered the cold water to attempt a rescue.
Upon reaching the vehicle, they discovered an unresponsive female driver inside, facedown and trapped within the submerged car. The vehicle’s doors were locked, preventing immediate access. Acting quickly, Detective Morris used a rescue tool to break a window while Sergeant Green positioned himself to remove the victim. Once the window was broken, Sergeant Green was able to pull the unconscious driver from the vehicle. Detective Morris then carried the victim out of the water and onto the boat ramp where she could receive further assistance.
After the rescue, Sergeant Green returned to the vehicle to ensure no additional occupants were inside. Citizens at the scene assisted by providing ropes to secure the vehicle and prevent it from drifting further into the Delta.
Due to the decisive actions, courage, and teamwork demonstrated by Sergeant Green and Detective Morris, the victim was successfully rescued and later regained consciousness. She was transported to a local hospital where she made a full recovery.
Their willingness to immediately place themselves in danger in order to save the life of another reflects the highest traditions of the Antioch Police Department and is worthy of recognition through the Life Saving Award.
We are incredibly proud of our team and grateful for their commitment to serving our community every day. Congratulations to all of the recipients!
BART, three Contra Costa County Public Works projects also honored
By City of Antioch
The City of Antioch’s Brackish Water Desalination Project continues to receive recognition across the engineering and public works community!
The project has been named a 2026 Project Award Winner by the American Public Works Association (APWA) Northern California Chapter. Antioch’s desal plant was one of eight projects in Contra Costa County, including three Public Works projects, honored at the 2026 Project Awards Luncheon in Vallejo on March 5th.
A total of 25 projects were nominated and 15 received an award, including BART and seven others in Contra Costa County. All winners will be moving on to the APWA National at Public Works Expo 2026 in Houston, TX in August for consideration.
Source: APWA Northern California
The APWA Northern California Chapter is a dynamic and engaged community of professionals dedicated to advancing the goals and mission of our association at the local level. The chapter is an integral part of the larger APWA network, representing a vibrant community of professionals in Northern California. We are committed to fostering professional growth, facilitating meaningful connections, and promoting excellence within the industry.
During the ACEC California awards ceremony on Feb. 19, 2026. Photo: ACEC California
ACEC California Engineering ExcellenceAward
Public Works Director Scott Buenting and Water Treatment Plant Superintendent Marcus Woodland were presented last month with an Engineering Excellence Award from the American Council of Engineering Companies of California (ACEC). Carollo Engineers of Walnut Creek submitted the Antioch project for consideration which received a ACEC California Merit Award.
The ACEC California’s annual Engineering Excellence Awards competition recognizes outstanding achievements in engineering and land surveying projects completed by California firms. Entries are accepted into one of 12 project categories: studies, research and consulting engineering services; building/technology systems; structural systems; surveying and mapping technology; environmental; waste and storm water; water resources; transportation; special projects; small projects; energy; and industrial and manufacturing processes and facilities.
Projects were recognized for demonstrating an exceptional degree of innovation, complexity, achievement, and value. Twenty projects earned the prestigious Honor Award distinction, twenty-seven were recognized with Merit Awards, and fifteen Commendation Awards were granted.
“We are proud to recognize these ACEC California firms for delivering an exceptional degree of value and technical excellence to our communities,” said Tyler Munzing, Executive Director of ACEC California. “Quality infrastructure—from dependable drinking water to safe, efficient roadways and structurally sound public spaces—is essential to our state’s success. These award-winning projects showcase how our engineering and land surveying firms are passionately building a more resilient and connected California.”
The awards were announced at the Engineering Excellence Awards Banquet on February 19, 2026. The annual celebration is also a fundraiser for the ACEC California Scholarship Foundation 501(c)3, which provides scholarship awards to graduate and undergraduate students who are recognized for their notable and outstanding academic achievements.
These recognitions highlight the expertise and dedication of the team working to deliver safe, reliable water for our community.
