City Park and new signage got the thumbs up but the River Town Square project was given a big thumbs down from a majority of the Antioch City Council Members during their meeting Tuesday night, Aug. 11, 2026. Sources: photo and sign rendering by City of Antioch, site plan by Save The Yard.
Postpones, will study resuming security services for downtown
“This is one thing that unites people that don’t usually get together.” – resident Frank Sterling about support for the proposed downtown park
“We do not have $250,000 to spend to maintain this park. If we do, every other park is going to have a reduced level of maintenance.” – Mayor Ron Bernal
Freitas envisions a hotel with conference center on the former Beede Lumber Yard site
By Allen D. Payton
In spite of impassioned comments from a broad spectrum of residents in favor of using state funds for a new park on the site of the former Beede Lumber Yard in downtown, to their chagrin, during the regular meeting on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, the Antioch City Council voted 4-1 to apply for the grant to benefit City Park. Only District 2 Councilman Louie Rocha voted against the motion. Most of the public speakers spoke in favor of the proposed, new downtown park, including representatives of two groups of residents, one wearing blue shirts with the message, “Rivertown Square Yes!” printed on them and the other from Rising Juntos wearing green shirts, and others who aren’t usually allied on the same side of major issues. (See related article)
During Council deliberations on the matter, both Councilmembers Tamisha Torres-Walker, in whose District 1 both sites are located, and Don Freitas hemmed and hawed in their willingness to support the Rivertown Square project before ultimately voting to pursue the funds for City Park, instead.
Public Comments
Before the vote on item #8 on the agenda, members of the public spoke mainly in favor of using the state grant funds for the Rivertown Square.
“I’ve watched cities that have grown their downtowns…and I think, ‘why not us? Why not Antioch?’” said one downtown resident. “Downtown once had a green space at Barbara Price Marina Park and we were promised a replacement.”
“Please choose the Yard,” she added.
“This is our neighborhood. I have been fighting for The Yard…this is one of the longest fights I’ve been doing,” said resident Frank Sterling. “This is one thing that unites people that don’t usually get together. I feel like you all should be bold. I’m in favor of The Yard being our downtown…community space.”
Resident Michael Simpson, wearing one of the blue shirts compared it to Concord’s Todos Santos Plaza, Oakley’s Civic Center and Brentwood’s downtown City Park, as well as Pittsburg’s Old Town park.
“We should…create something for future generations,” he stated.
Barbara Price Marina Park was six acres, and the Beede Lumber Lot is just under two acres, one third the size, so, the maintenance costs will be less, another resident pointed out.
“We have waited long enough. This community has spoken. Please don’t let maintenance be the issue. Please honor the commitment. Please apply for the grant to be at the Rivertown Square,” she concluded.
“Antioch shouldn’t be the city people drive through but the city people drive to,” another resident wearing one of the blue shirts in support of the Rivertown Square stated.
Former Planning Commissioner Kerry Motts, also wearing a blue shirt in support of the project for which his sister, former councilwoman and current District 1 council candidate, Joy Motts has helped lead the effort, said, it “would provide for enhanced economic vitality of Rivertown. This has been a stated goal…for 40 years.”
A leader of Rising Juntos East spoke “in support of developing the Beed Lumber Yard park.”
“Please vote yes for the families of north Antioch,” she added.
“Children and families need safe spaces to thrive,” another representative of Rising Juntos said in support of the Rivertown Square. “We envision not just a park but a cultural hub.”
“Why is it taking so long?” she asked. “Making the lot a park would make the downtown more walkable and enjoyable. It’s right across the street from the Senior Center. They could enjoy it.”
Another member of Rising Juntos said, “City Park needs investment and our community absolutely needs to see it improved. But one park should not be sacrificed at the expense of another.”
Alexander Broom, Vice Chair of the Antioch Parks and Recreation Commission, said, “I think it should be Beede Lumber Yard or bust. I believe we should put all of our eggs in this basket.
District 4 Council candidate and local homeless advocate Andrew Becker spoke last with a completely different idea saying, “My concern is that the intent of Prop. 4 is to…preserve or create open space for individuals and I keep hearing, tonight it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity. Forty years ago, homes were built along Cavallo (Road). There’s still no parks within a-half a mile.”
Council Discussion & Decisionfor City Park
During council discussion Acting Community Development Director Steve Scudero was asked by Mayor Ron Bernal about the vacant downtown lot, “How is that property zoned?”
“Mixed use which allows for commercial residential and public spaces,” Scudero responded.
“If we wanted to sell that property as a surplus property…” Bernal began.
“We would have to make it available to an affordable housing builder…giving a sixty-day notice of availability… before selling the property,” Scudero stated.
District 2 Councilman Louie Rocha spoke next saying, “Both parks are important. I believe City Park does need investment. But we have a downtown area that many of us…for enrichment would see where people could come together and bring some economic development.”
“It’s unfortunate we have to pick just one. It looks like both projects meet the criteria for the process,” he continued. “Whatever we decide tonight won’t determine what would happen to the other.”
“Probably the one thing I’ve been most impressed with…over the years I’ve heard about The Yard, the Town Square,” Rocha stated. “I’m inclined to support The Yard because of the engagement that’s bringing people together. This may be four years down the road even if we get the funding.”
“I understand the value of bringing people together. I could support both. But I’m going to support the Beede Lumber Yard because of all the engagement,” he added. “I don’t think there’ll be a problem with getting the people behind you.”
District 4 Councilwoman Monica Wilson said, “Both are good. But I want to put one in that’s most competitive and going to get the dollars.”
Alex Gibbs, Grants Director of Townsend Public Affairs, the City’s consultant on the grant process, said, “There will be a lengthy process…that will include site visits from the state…most likely in April next year. You’re looking at really a difference of five or six points. There are fewer people living near the Yard…given the location of the lot near the river. But the state takes that into consideration. That’s the reality we’re living in. I’m confident that either case…we can write a very competitive application. The only thing you’re going to lose out on is the number of people living in poverty and nearby park land.”
Wilson asked about the Cavallo Road area saying, “That space we don’t own. It’s not a park,” referring to an empty, privately-owned lot on the southeast corner of Cavallo Road and E. 18th Street.
“I’m not aware of any land we own in that area,” Scudero stated.
District 1 Councilwoman Tamisha Torres-Walker, participating remotely from a resort and spa in Santa Cruz, then said, “I keep saying, don’t put housing there. I also don’t agree that housing should be the priority for this site.” She then said, “I keep hearing, it’s been 15 years they’ve had the commitment to replace the Barbara Price park that they lost. That seems to be a theme I continue to hear…that people have been waiting…for something.”
“I definitely want us to award whatever can bring revenue to the City of Antioch and I’m hearing the Beede Lumber Yard could bring revenue and even cover its maintenance costs,” Torres-Walker continued. “This is potentially an $8 million grant. We could submit one application or two applications.”
“Anything is possible,” said Recreation Department Director Shahad Wright. “Whatever money we have…we’ll make sure the contingency fund will be enough to cover.”
“It will be a city park not a neighborhood park so it would include restrooms,” Torres-Walker stated.
“That will be part of the design process,” Wright responded.
“If Beede Lumber lot is selected tonight, there will be a design phase, a community engagement phase, restrooms. What would be the follow up for City Park?” she asked.
“I will pivot and figure out how to fix the rest of the parks in the city,” Wright stated. “You have up to four years to spend the grant funds.”
The councilwoman then mentioned “downtown business owners” dealing with “parking issues and unhoused folks who actually live along the waterfront” and giving enough time for the City to deal with those issues.
District 3 Councilman Don Freitas said, “We’ve talked a lot about history. Some of us have intimate knowledge of history. I want to go back to 1978 and 1979. I was the Executive Director of the Antioch Chamber of Commerce and most of our members were in downtown. Because at that time it was still one of the economic hubs of the community.”
“I told them, ‘the downtown could survive if we had residents moving into the downtown and…sustained economic development,’” he continued.
“We needed to improve the circulation pattern in the downtown area. As mayor…from 2000-2008, whe number one project was to finally connect A Street to Second Street,” Freitas stated. “That was probably one of my greatest achievements as mayor. Because downtown finally had circulation.”
“So, on the issue of the Beede Lumber Yard…and this has been an issue for over 40 years, my vision for Beede Lumber was that we need to make downtown a destination, and we needed to generate revenue,” he explained. “I’ve seen many people say on social media that Freitas wants to build apartments. Freitas has never been for building apartments” on the vacant lot.
“My vision was to build a Sheraton Inn like in Concord…that Antioch would own the property and reach out to owners of hotels…two to three stories with a rooftop garden,” Freitas shared. “I wanted to have a situation where we would have a 35-year lease. I never wanted to sell that property…and each and every year we would generate revenue.”
“We have more than 118,000 people in this town. There is no hotel in this town for us to offer conferences or seminars or anything. So, part of my argument was, let’s build one,” he continued. “If you’re there for two to three days, what are you going to do? You’re going to walk up the street. We could have a jazz lounge. We would have restaurants there.”
“You say you’ve been disappointed for 15 years. I’ve been disappointed for over 50 to 60 years,” Freitas exclaimed. “You say this is going to produce revenue. To do that you’d have to be using this facility every day. That’s not going to happen. Excluding the 4th of July, you’re going to get a couple hundred people. Very few people come out of District 3 to the downtown because there’s nothing there for them.”
“We have Williamson (Park). What’s the problem? There’s no parking,” he asked and answered. “If Beede goes through, the problem is going to be parking.”
“I have seen your schematics. Very interesting. But it’s not going to sustain itself,” Freitas stated. “But you’ve done a very good job coming together and advocating. I think I can count the votes. I think we’re going to probably engage Beede. But be under no delusion. The best bet is not Beede. The best bet in my opinion is City Park.”
“But I’m going to challenge every single one of you here. There’s going to be community meetings. You’ve said, ‘we can raise money through non-profits…through other means.’ Don’t wait,” he said. “That’s been the problem with this city. I challenge you, start figuring out how to pay for this on a long-term basis.”
“We are in a deficit. We’ve reduced it dramatically,” Freitas pointed out. “Your organization is great…you have another part of the job. Don’t abandon us. Stay with us. I challenge you. Where are all these other monies going to come in? Because the city doesn’t have it.”
Mayor Ron Bernal spoke next reiterating Freitas’ last point saying, “The Council chose to remove this project from the Capital Improvement process because we didn’t have the funds for maintenance. If this goes through, we still won’t have the money for maintenance. We do not have $250,000 to spend to maintain this park. If we do, every other park is going to have a reduced level of maintenance.”
“We have deferred maintenance coming out of our ears,” he stated. “I am not in favor of adding another expense…as much as people would love to have this park built in downtown,” he continued.
“We’re talking about one point being the difference in getting this funding. We don’t have five points,” Bernal explained. “And that (City) park won’t be improved and we won’t have Beede, either.”
“The new areas are fully paying for the maintenance of their parks. The downtown area parks, the General Fund is paying for their maintenance,” he continued.
“We do need to improve our downtown…have places for people to gather. I’m for all of that,” Bernal said. “This is an example of everyone coming together. But we don’t have the…wiggle room in this process. So, I’m going to be in favor of City Park.”
Torres-Walker than said, “I didn’t hear that we only had to submit one application. I heard we could do two applications. Was that correct?”
Gibbs of Townsend said, “That is correct. There is no limit to the number of applications the City can submit.”
“Would the Council be against submitting two?” she asked.
“I would be opposed to that,” Freitas said. “I think Townsend has made the case not to do that.”
“I think there would be a staff issue in running two processes. How well would you be able to run two processes?” Bernal asked.
“It’s a heavy lift,” Director Wright said. “We’re already understaffed and two facilities down. How well can we do in this small timeframe?”
Freitas asked, “What is in the best interest of Antioch?” then said, “I’m going to move that we do apply for this grant for City Park.”
Bernal seconded the motion.
Torres-Walker than stated, “For Townsend said, ‘this takes a while to bring this process around.’ I’ve been for bringing grants to the City. Do you see there will be opportunities in the future…can there be a commitment to pursue grant funding for parks?”
“I can commit to purse the best grant application as possible…I commit to not leaving any stone unturned…be it state, federal or other,” Gibbs said.
The motion then passed on a vote of 4-1 with Rocha voting against.
In response, one member of the audience could be heard yelling out, “There are elections coming up.”
Sources: Top – Antioch Herald file photo. Bottom photo: City of Antioch
Postpones Resuming Downtown Security Services Until September to Study Issue
Two residents spoke during public comments on the item, #9 on the agenda, local homeless advocate and District 4 Council candidate Andrew Becker said, “I managed a private security company…for years. I think…the biggest question is…what’s very alarming is staff puts out the report that includes the security logs. But there’s no results. ‘We as staff are doing a good job…that the work should continue in downtown.’ It’s staff’s responsibility to monitor and maintain contracts.”
“I went through all of the security logs,” he continued. “It speaks to a high volume of emergency calls…I think you see four or five very low instances in the hundreds of logs put out. The contract is for City-owned parking lots. If that’s the case, then why are the photos…of properties the City doesn’t own in downtown? Or pictures of properties that aren’t even in downtown….a shopping center in a newer development? Where are these guards and who are we paying and what is the relationship of this company to the City?”
Keith Butler, CEO and Founder of Elite Defense Security Solutions said he had, “ties to prior law enforcement. I’m a retired law enforcement officer of 18 years.”
“Without getting into the particulars of the current company…it’s not who’s providing the security, it’s what does the security look like. You need to look at what that security can do,” he continued.
“I have to agree with the previous speaker,” Butler stated. “There were a lot of items on there that don’t look to be parking lots.”
He then offered to help the City draft a new RFQ (request for quote).
Council Discussion & Decision to Postpone After Meeting with Downtown Businesses, City Staff
During Council discussion, Freitas spoke first saying, “I think that when we initially did this, we did focus on the City-owned property. If we want to put together a work group…we didn’t receive any input from the Police Department…Code Enforcement, the Antioch Chamber of Commerce, the Downtown Antioch Association. We need to ask questions…be proactive rather than reactive.”
Rocha then said, “One key strategy identified…is to act as a visible deterrent…and properly report incidents to the Antioch Police Department. When you read the comments from the survey…the key strategy is to be visible when people don’t even know they’re there. Maybe this is misleading the way the key was written.”
“I think the merchants and restaurant owners are wanting to have a relationship…that didn’t happen with this particular vender,” he continued. “I do think we need to have community members meet together. I think there needs to be dialogue. I’m not prepared to approve this contract.”
Wilson then said, “We didn’t include any measurables…around patrol hours…how to communicate with the police. I think if we have this committee we figure out the performance measures. That’s the problem with the RFQ. I think we really missed it on this one.”
Finance Director Dawn Merchant, serving in the role of acting city manager for the meeting (or Acting Acting City Manager she jokingly said) then shared, “One of the difficulties I do recall being discussed was how can the City pay for extra security for businesses in downtown when they don’t for another challenged area in the City. That’s why it was focused on the City-owned parking lots. That’s how this evolved.”
Torres-Walker mentioned, “the businesses saying, ‘we need more support from the City.’ The police saying, ‘we can’t just commit officers to downtown’. We couldn’t justify doing it for the businesses. We asked if there were other City-owned parking lots throughout the city.”
“What is being often overlooked is…it just provided patrol for City-owned parking lots in downtown not the businesses,” she continued. “When I looked at this report…at least one property outlined in here that is way over by Deer Valley. How did they end up all the way over in District 4?”
“The survey was completed by seven respondents…out of fifty or more in downtown,” Torres-Walker stated. “You have 71% of the respondents said they would support the City continuing security services in downtown. It is very telling. The majority of businesses that responded felt like security services were needed for weekdays and the evenings and special events.”
“Asked how often they see security services downtown it was pretty spread out. You never had ‘never or occasionally.’ Although you had one outlier say they had seen the security company several times a week,” the councilwoman shared.
She then mentioned the only cannabis retail location in downtown and that, “they’re supposed to have 24-hour armed security.”
“I do want to add patrolling for downtown businesses,” Torres-Walker stated. “Most municipalities have a downtown overlay district where the businesses pay for additional police patrols” and mentioned using “CSO’s (Community Service Officers) driving around in marked cars.”
She concluded by suggesting forming a “police district in the waterfront.”
“This could be a collaborative effort of the City and downtown businesses that they pay for this,” Freitas said. “I think it’s in their best interest. I just think we should try to get them together…with the City Attorney. It’s an idea to move forward. Because we don’t have the services right now, the question to the police department is, are there other personnel that can be used such as VIPS. I think we need to be a little creative.”
Rocha agreed with using CSO’s.
Antioch Police Captain Matt Koch jokingly said, “In the words of Director Wright, ‘anything is possible.’”
“We’ve already increased our presence over there with officers and CSO’s during all hours of the day and night that are scheduled,” he stated. “I went 42 days before and 42 days after and there’s been a 23% increase in calls for service to the police department. It’s about three-and-a-half to four-and-a-half calls for service per day. I think having them there…with the lights flashing is a deterrence. It is a great service and a force multiplier for us.”
“There are some residences besides the businesses that are affected there,” Koch continued. “At my request they were taking pictures and providing them to the department.
“So, you see the security as a benefit overall,” Bernal asked.
“Overall, yes,” Koch responded.
“As they’re driving different routes between the parking lots there’s nothing that precludes them from making calls if they see something,” Bernal said.
“Yes,” Koch stated.
“I would like to see something done in the month of August,” Bernal stated. “I just think we need to do something quickly.”
“I do think we need to pursue another request for qualifications,” Torres-Walker added.
There will be a DAA meeting on the 19th at El Campanil Theatre,” the mayor stated. Torres-Walker said she will be attending that meeting.
Rocha said he will speak with the Chamber of Commerce. Bernal suggested Freitas do so, as well.
The council members agreed to have representatives from the Antioch Police Department, Code Enforcement meet and downtown business owners to discuss the needs for private security.
Suspect Terrence Gordon Langston in a video posted on his Facebook page Jan. 13, 2020, and the cash and gold bars confiscated. Photo by Antioch PD
Has victims in multiple states, history of arrests, already out of custody
By Antioch Police Department
On July 21, 2026, Lear Capital, a Los Angeles-based precious metals company, contacted the Antioch Police Department to report suspicious transactions they believed were fraudulent. Their employees noticed something was off, and instead of looking the other way, they picked up the phone and called us.
That call mattered. Detective Duff quickly connected the activity to victims in multiple states with combined losses of nearly $30,000. Within days, detectives served a search warrant at an Antioch residence and recovered stolen property, including $9,000 in gold, along with check-printing equipment, card readers, personal identifying information belonging to numerous people and two firearms.
Terrence Gordon Langston, 34, of Antioch, was arrested and the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office has filed felony identity theft and grand theft charges.
According to localcrimenews.com, he has a history of arrests by Antioch and Colma Police and the Contra Costa Sheriff dating back to 2017 for crimes including receiving stolen property – motor vehicle, receiving or concealing stolen property and for a bench warrant/failure to appear on a misdemeanor charge.
On Langston’s Facebook page, it shows he’s self-employed since January 2018 and he posted a video of himself talking about something he called “Money Mystery” and described as “the next generation of broadcast.” Langston said that he’s “been MIA for a minute…because I’ve been working on my own app” and was “in the beta-testing stages” and looking for “11 testers” to help him and “each week…giving out $11 to each tester.” Under Langston’s education it shows California State University, Northridge.
We want to thank Lear Capital for doing the right thing. Most identity theft victims don’t know they’ve been targeted until the damage is done. Alert businesses are often the first to spot it.
That’s the lesson in this case: early detection stops fraud. Here’s how to detect it early in your own life.
Freeze your credit. It’s free, takes about 10 minutes, and blocks anyone from opening accounts in your name. You can unfreeze it anytime.
Sign up for USPS Informed Delivery. This free service emails you a photo of the mail arriving at your address each day, before it gets there. If something goes missing between the photo and your mailbox, you’ll know. Mail theft remains one of the most common ways criminals steal identities. Sign up at informeddelivery.usps.com.
Check your credit reports. You’re entitled to free weekly reports from all three bureaus at AnnualCreditReport.com.
Look for accounts you don’t recognize.
Verify before you share. If someone calls claiming to be your bank, a company you do business with, or even law enforcement, hang up and call back using a number you find yourself. Legitimate organizations will never pressure you to stay on the line.
If it happens to you, report it at IdentityTheft.gov and file a report with your local police department. A police report is often required to dispute fraudulent accounts.
All defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Vote on spending over $500K for park and trail signage, $382K for police dep’t security system, appointing new member to Sales Tax Citizens’ Oversight Committee
By Allen D. Payton
Following a Closed Session at 4:30 p.m., during their Regular Meeting tonight, Tuesday, August 11, 2026, the Antioch City Council will discuss resuming downtown security services and vote on spending over $500,000 for park and trail signage, about $382,000 for Police Department cameras and appointing a new member to the Sales Tax Citizens’ Oversight Committee. That’s in addition to deciding where to use state park grant funds, either at the former Beede Lumber Yard in Rivertown or at City Park. (See related article)
Before their Regular Meeting at 7:00 p.m., during Closed Session, which begins at 4:30 p.m., the Council will discuss the City Attorney’s performance evaluation, nine potential lawsuits pertaining to possible Labor Code Section 1102.5, which protects employees from retaliation for reporting or refusing to participate in illegal or unlawful activities, and Fair Employment and Housing Act violations, as well as one possible lawsuit for a potential breach of contract and related claims.
Herald file photo
Downtown Security Services Discussion
Under item 9 on the agenda, the Council will discuss resuming private security services to patrol City-owned parking lots in historic, downtown Rivertown. The previous contract and extensions ended on June 30th.
According to the City staff report, “In December 2022, in response to increasing concerns from Rivertown/Downtown business owners and visitors regarding criminal activity and quality of life issues occurring in and around City-owned public parking lots, the City Council directed staff to evaluate options to improve public safety and security in the area. One key strategy identified was the deployment of private security services to act as a visible deterrent, identify safety issues, monitor City-owned properties and promptly report incidents and safety concerns to the Antioch Police Department.
“Following a competitive process, the City selected Shield Protection & Public Safety, Inc., DBA Spearhead Protection, as the most qualified provider. The City entered into a professional services agreement with Spearhead Protection for services from January 9, 2024, through June 30, 2025, in the not-to-exceed amount of $100,068. On April 23, 2025, the City executed a first amended agreement, increasing the compensation by $49,932. On May 27, 2025, agreement (mislabeled as a first amendment), extending services through June 30, 2026, and increasing compensation to the not-to-exceed amount of $100,000.
“There is no direct fiscal impact of the discussion surrounding downtown security services. Should Council direct that the City resume security services and issue a request for proposal, the City Manager’s General Fund budget includes $102,500 for services, based on the pricing of the prior contract.”
“The previous contract provided security coverage seven days a week, including holidays, between the hours of 5:00 p.m. and midnight. Services include regular patrols of nine designated locations in the Rivertown/Downtown area by a uniformed guard in a marked security vehicle.”
Photo: Verkada
New Police Department Cameras, Hardware & Software
Under the Consent Calendar item 5.F, the Council will consider approving a five-year agreement with Verkada-Development Group Inc. in the amount of $381,676.22 to purchase police department cameras, hardware and cloud-based operating system software for use inside the police facility and animal shelter for the period from September 1, 2026, to September 1, 2031
It requires authorizing a fiscal year 2026-27 budget amendment to roll over the FY 2025-26 Police Department General Fund budget to the Fiscal Year 2026/27 budget. The cost of the five-year contract is to be paid upfront with an average cost of $76,335.24 per year.
The contract will be with Redding-based Development Group, Inc., which designs and installs equipment by San Mateo-based Verkada.
According to the City staff report, “the Antioch Police Department’s existing Bay Alarm video surveillance system has reached the end of its useful life and is no longer capable of providing the level of security, reliability, and functionality required to support daily police operations. The system was originally designed as a 12-server, on-premises video management platform; however, eight of the twelve servers have failed and are no longer operational. As a result, the system has experienced a significant reduction in performance, reliability, and recording capability, creating substantial vulnerabilities in the Department’s security infrastructure.
“In addition to the server failures, much of the existing surveillance hardware has deteriorated due to age and prolonged use. Numerous cameras have exposed wiring, increasing the likelihood of equipment failure and presenting maintenance and safety concerns. The video intercom systems located at secure entrances, public access doors, and vehicle gates are also malfunctioning and no longer provide dependable communication or access control. These failures negatively impact the Department’s ability to monitor facilities, control access and maintain a secure environment for employees, visitors and members of the public.
Source: Verkada
“The Bay Alarm video management software and supporting platform are also obsolete and have exceeded their serviceable life. Replacement components are increasingly difficult to obtain, manufacturer support is limited or unavailable, and the system is no longer capable of supporting current security technologies or operational requirements.
“Due to the age and condition of both the hardware and software, continued repairs are no longer practical or cost-effective. The system is beyond repair and requires complete replacement with a modern, reliable video surveillance solution that provides enhanced security, improved operational efficiency, and long-term sustainability.
“Verkada…has built a unique end-to-end, cloud-managed security platform for monitoring and managing physical security. The Verkada integrated platform offers comprehensive solutions across video security (cameras), access control (door controllers and readers), environmental sensors (air quality monitoring), alarms (wired and wireless sensors, wired alarm panel, and wireless hub, as well as packaged monitoring offerings), visitor management, mailroom management, and video door intercoms.
“This platform includes a number of unique features, such as up to 365 days of continuous on-camera storage, a full range of indoor and outdoor cameras with night vision (dome, mini, bullet, split, and fisheye models), infrared LED isolation on 4K dome camera models, an offline mode that allows a user to view live streams via a viewing station even in the event of an Internet outage, and security screens for visitors. Verkada provides native integration across all those applications, including security cameras, access control, environmental sensors, alarms, visitor management, mailroom management, and video intercoms.
“Verkada is the only manufacturer of cloud-managed physical security solutions with all those features. These products are designed, manufactured, and sold exclusively by Verkada who holds various intellectual property rights in and to its products.
“Switching to Verkada provides a modern, scalable security platform that better aligns with current and future operational needs. Verkada’s cloud-managed system consolidates video surveillance, access control, and system management into a single, intuitive interface, reducing complexity and administrative overhead. This transition improves system reliability, simplifies maintenance, and ensures consistent performance across all deployed devices while allowing authorized personnel to securely access and manage the system from anywhere.”
Examples of new park sign designs from bidding plans. Source: City of Antioch
New Park & Trail Signage
Under the Consent Calendar item 5.H., the Council will consider awarding the construction agreement for the Installation of Park Signage Project to the lowest, responsive and responsible bidder, Los Angeles-based Monarka Development Corporation DBA Express Sign & Neon in the amount of $498,860, with a $25,000 contingency for a total contract amount of $523,860.
Examples of new park sign designs from bidding plans. Source: City of Antioch
It requires approving a budget amendment to the Fiscal Year 2026/27 Capital Improvement and Operating Budgets using Park-in-Lieu funds paid for by new development, in the amount of $187,000.
According to the City staff report, the project consists of the fabrication and installation of signage within parks and major trails throughout the city including Antioch City Park, Chichibu Park, Worth Shaw Community Park, Antioch Community Park and other designated trail locations.
Under item 6 on the agenda, Mayor Ron Bernal will to nominate the candidate of his choice, Christian Lapena, and the City Council will vote on adopting a resolution approving his appointment to the Sales Tax Citizens’ Oversight Committee for a full-term vacancy expiring March 2030.
According to his application, Lapena has lived in Antioch since 2021 and is the founder of the non-profit organization Herpaderp. According to their website, the exotic animal rescue organization based in Antioch, specializes in rescuing and rehabilitating animals such as turtles, lizards, snakes and other animals that are not native to the area or are not commonly kept as pets.
According to his LinkedIn profile, since Sept. 2024 he has worked as a Senior Support Engineer for Renascent Technology and since Oct. 2020 Lapena has worked as a contract Senior Support Engineer for the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative. In 2012 He earned an Associate of Arts and Sciences degree in network security from City College of San Francisco.
The Sales Tax Citizens’ Oversight Committee is responsible for reviewing the receipt and expenditure of funds under the City’s Measure W one-cent sales tax as they relate to the Council’s stated priorities outlined in the adopted budgets of the City. The Committee is responsible for reporting out the result of their review by April 1st of each year at a public meeting.
Committee members are responsible for the following duties:
Reviewing annual sales tax revenue and expenditure reports.
Monitoring compliance with ballot measure requirements.
Providing transparency to the public regarding fund usage.
Advising the City Council on accountability measures.
Each year, an independent auditor shall complete a public audit report of the revenue raised and its expenditure. The Committee’s review shall be completed in conjunction with the City’s budget process. The Committee’s report on its review, whether oral or written, shall be considered by the City Council at a public meeting before April 1 of each year. Any written report shall be a matter of public record.
The Committee consists of seven members who are Antioch residents. The terms of the Committee members are staggered with four members serving a four-year term and three members serving a two-year term. At least one member of the Committee shall have a financial, accounting or auditing background.
As previously reported, there are currently five more vacancies on the committee that the Council will be filling that include:
Three (3) Full-Term Vacancies, expiring March 2030
Two (2) Full-Term Vacancies, expiring March 2028
Applications are due this Friday, Aug. 14 at 5:00 p.m. To be considered for the vacancy position(s), please complete an application and submit it to the City Clerk’s Office by the deadline date listed above. Applications are also located on the City’s Website at www.antiochca.gov/739/Boards-Commissions and may be picked up in person at Antioch City Hall, 200 H Street, Antioch, CA.
Please email your completed application to: cityclerk@antiochca.gov. You can also drop off your application (Attn: City Clerk) in the water billing drop-off box located in the parking lot just outside of Antioch City Hall.
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.
Antioch School Board incumbent Mary Rocha will face off against newcomer Brandon Dawkins for Area 2 Trustee in the November election. Sources: Official and campaign photos.
Deadline is Wed. Aug 12 at 5:00 p.m.
By Allen D. Payton
In the elections for the two seats on the Antioch School Board, the race for Area 5 Trustee is set as of last Friday, while the filing period for Area 2 Trustee has been extended until Wednesday, Aug. 12th at 5:00 p.m. because incumbent Dr. Jag Lathan did not seek re-election.
In Trustee Area 5, incumbent Mary Rocha will face only one opponent, Brandon Dawkins, as Brandon William Lawson did not complete the filing process. As previously reported, according to his campaign Facebook page and his campaign website, Dawkins is a “Healthcare Worker, Labor and Community Organizer” and “a father of five, with four of his children attending Antioch Unified schools.” His campaign slogan is “Whole Student, Whole Community.”
In Trustee Area 2, Oakley resident Roxanne Reece so far faces no opponent. But because the incumbent didn’t file to run for re-election by last Friday’s deadline, the filing period has been extended five days until 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 12th.
According to Reece’s campaign Facebook page she is a “Parent, Advocate, Community Voice” and is “Committed to students, families, educators, accountability and a stronger future for Antioch schools.” A portion of Oakley is within the Antioch School District boundaries.
Registered voters who live within the light green area shown in this Antioch School District Trustee Area 2 map can run for the school board. Source: AUSD
To run, candidates must live within the Trustee Area, acquire nomination papers at and submit them to the Contra Costa Elections office, 555 Escobar Street in Martinez. Interested candidates can schedule an appointment by emailing candidate.services@vote.cccounty.us or by calling (925) 335-7800. Walk-ins are accepted, but service is subject to the availability of staff. Appointments are available on weekdays from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. Filing documents and information will be provided to interested constituents at their appointment. The process takes approximately 20 minutes. For more information visit www.contracostavote.gov/elections/candidates-campaigns-measures/run-for-office.
Graphic by Antioch Herald does not depict actual Antioch Police Officers or residents. Nor is there a pond or lake at Worth Shaw Community Park. So, leave your swimsuit, fishing pole and boat at home. Source: AI-generated using ChatGPT
By Antioch Police Department
We will be hosting a community meeting on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at Worth Shaw Community Park, 801 James Donlon Blvd. We encourage you to attend, as this is a valuable opportunity to ask questions, receive helpful information, and engage directly with your Police Department. A photo of the meeting location is attached for your convenience
On Tuesday, August 11, 2026, the Contra Costa Immigrant Rights Alliance (CCIRA) is hosting a press event to urge the Board of Supervisors to pass a strong countywide ordinance creating the necessary barriers to prevent Immigration and Customs Enforcement and other federal agencies from pillaging and looting Contra Costa County resources.
For over a year, immigration attorneys, advocates, and community members have worked to propose language and advocate for a strong ordinance. Contra Costa is one of the few Bay Area counties without this protection. Neighboring counties of Alameda, San Mateo, San Francisco, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, and Sonoma all have non-cooperation ordinances in effect. And the draft proposed by county counsel is insufficient to protect our residents and not in compliance with the recent guidance issued by the CA Attorney General.
Inspired by the Summer 2025 TRUTH Act and ICE’s expanding presence in Contra Costa, the Contra Costa Immigrant Rights Alliance, Lift Up Contra Costa, and its allies have been advocating for a non-cooperation ordinance that:
Prohibits the usage of our county’s resources and funds for ICE operations.
Calls for the creation of county-wide policies to protect county workers.
Safeguards our county data from being raided by ICE agents.
Ensures that county contractors do not comply or cooperate with ICE agents.
Demands that the Sheriff Department report its contact with federal agencies.
Since January, over 50 people have died in ICE custody. We have also witnessed ICE’s rogue extrajudicial killings in Minnesota, Houston and Biddeford. Local ordinances are one answer to these deadly federal immigration enforcement tactics. These unprecedented times require brave leadership and action. We’re calling on the Board of Supervisors to do their duty and to stop delaying. Contra Costa deserves better.
What: Press Event Demanding the Passage of a Strong ICE Non-Cooperation Ordinance in Contra Costa County
Confirmed Speakers:
Danny Espinoza, Director, Lift Up Contra Costa
Rev. Deborah Lee, Executive Director of Interfaith Movement for Human Integrity
Brandon Dawkins, VP of Organizing, SEIU 1021
Cameron Sasai, Mayor of the City of Pinole
Miosotti Tenecora, Staff Attorney, Immigrant Legal Resource Center
Betty Gabaldon, Concord Organizer Manager, East Bay Alliance for a Sustainable Economy
Tony Bravo, Executive Director, United Latino Voices
Devin Williams, 3rd Vice President, East Contra Costa County NAACP Executive Committee and Vice Chairperson, Antioch Police Oversight Commission
Marifer Marina, Organizer, Monument Impact
Katie Ricklefs, Chair, Democratic Party of Contra Costa
By law California is already a sanctuary state as, according to iceoutofca.org, “California has long enacted laws that restrict state and local law enforcement from cooperating with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in immigration enforcement actions. The most significant of these is the California Values Act (SB 54), which took effect on January 1, 2018,” which “protects the safety and wellbeing of all Californians by limiting use of state and local resources for mass deportationsand ensures that important institutions such as schools, health facilities, and courthouses remain accessible to everyone. SB 54 remains legally binding state law, and states and localities continue to have the constitutional right to opt out of federal immigration enforcement.
In addition, the County complies with other state laws regarding law enforcement dealing with undocumented immigrants illegally residing in the U.S. They include:
“TRUTH Act (AB 2792, 2017) – Requires local law enforcement to provide “Know Your Rights” information and copies of ICE holds, notifications, or transfer requests to individuals affected.
“TRUST Act (AB 4, 2014) – Prohibits local jails from holding individuals beyond the time ICE requests, with some exceptions.”
As previously reported, the Board of Supervisors will hold its annual state TRUTH Act Community Forumto discuss civil immigration enforcement activities during their regular meeting at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2026.
River Town Square Site Plan from presentation at Antioch City Council meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 23, 2021.
12-year effort by River Town Square supporters continues but City’s consultant recommends applying for funds to renovate City Park
Torres-Walker to participate remotely from resort and spa in Santa Cruz
By Allen D. Payton
During their meeting on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, the Antioch City Council will discuss using state grant funds for either a park at the former Beede Lumber Company Yard, in downtown where the Council-supported River Town Square project has been proposed, or at City Park.
District Councilwoman Tamisha Torres-Walker will attend remote via ZOOM from the Chaminade Resort & Spa, (Seascape Room) in Santa Cruz. Unlike during the last council meeting on July 28, this time, the councilwoman’s remote location is included in the agenda as required, allowing her to participate other than calling in during public comments as she did twice that night.
Source of State park grant funds.
State Park Grant
According to the City staff report for item #8 on the agenda, the California Department of State Parks Office of Grants and Local Services (OGALS), will be administering a competitive grant funded by Proposition 4 in the next 12-18 months. This is the same agency that administered Proposition 68 grant funds, of which Antioch received a $2.9M grant for the renovation of Contra Loma Estates Park. The grant will require that there be less than three acres of parkland per 1,000 residents and/or residents are below median income within a half-mile radius of a selected point within the project site.
Source: City of Antioch
According to the presentation by Townsend Public Affairs, there are five locations in the City that meet the criteria. They include Antioch City Park, Eagleridge Park, Waldie Plaza, Beede Lumber Yard and Contra Loma Estates Park, which was already renovated.
Council is being given two options for use of the funds, either Antioch City Park at the corner of A and W. 10th Streets or the former Beede Lumber Company Yard bordered by W. 2nd, W. 3rd and E Streets, across the street from the old Lumber Company building, that now houses Prime Vintage Realty.
Save The Yard sign with website that no longer exists and rendering of River Town Square by Jody Mattieson. Source: River Town Square Facebook page
History of 12-Year River Town Square Effort
For more than a decade, an effort, formerly known as Save The Yard, led by former Antioch Councilwoman and District 1 candidate Joy Motts, has been to change the lumber yard into the “River Town Square” park and event center. The City has owned the dirt lot since the late 1990’s and originally planned to build condominiums or townhouses. But neighbors on W. 3rd Street have opposed that through the years, sharing concerns that their views of the river would be blocked.
The idea was first proposed in 2014 during a joint meeting of the Antioch Planning and Economic Development Commissions on November 19th, regarding the Downtown Specific Plan. Several of the speakers were in favor of the creation of an event plaza, as opposed to construction of additional housing, downtown. Lee Ballesteros, representing Citizens for Responsible Antioch Waterfront Development, spoke about a proposal her group had submitted to the city advocating just such an idea. “Our vision for Downtown is for an active, vibrant, event plaza, as opposed to selling it and putting up homes. Events and quality of life is something that is very important to people,” she said.
Then during their meeting on June 23, 2015, the Council in approving the Downtown Specific Plan voted 5-0 for a Mixed-Use designation for the Beede site that would restrict the number of units to 18 per acre but still retain the possibility of a park, pleasing supporters of the River Town Square project.
Renderings of proposed townhomes on the Beede Lumber Yard. Sources: Antioch 2016 State of the City presentation and marketing video.
But during Closed Session at their meeting on Aug. 25, 2015, the Council reversed course with a vote of 4-1 to build condos on the lot instead, agreeing to sell the property along with eight other City-owned parcels to one developer. Supporters of the event center vowed to pursue a ballot measure. Two signature gathering efforts, including an initiative effort in 2016, that included fundraisers to support it, failed to garner enough signatures to qualify for the ballot. A second effort was announced later that year but did not materialize into a ballot measure.
During the Council meeting on Sept. 13, 2016, Councilwomen Lori Ogorchock and Monica Wilson offered some light at the end of the tunnel for the project when they “suggested reclassifying the lot from ‘Medium Density’ to ‘Open Space’, which would prevent the City from developing it in the near future, and clear the way for the Save the Yard movement to begin raising funds for a new event center.”
Antioch Lumber Company lot and wharf circa 1905. Photo courtesy of Katie Bookman Lamothe. Aerial view in 2016. Source: City of Antioch
It wasn’t until the Nov. 23, 2021 Antioch City Council meeting, Motts and other Save The Yard representatives received the go ahead from the Council after providing a presentation on the River Town Square proposal. All five council members agreed to “explore” the idea, including Torres-Walker, in whose district the lot is located, who said, “yes, this should be green space.” She also mentioned people not having to “go to San Francisco for 420 fests”, which is a large, annual pot smoking event. “We should do it, here like we do all these other things,” Torres-Walker stated.
“We can begin a process for exploring a community gathering space, a green space,” then-City Manager and now-Mayor Ron Bernal said at that meeting.
That process began in July 2022, when the Council hired Mill Valley-based RHAA Landscape Architecture & Planning and approved a contract for the Rivertown Community Space Project in the amount of $350,000 for design of the former Antioch Lumber Company lot to, according to that meeting agenda’s staff report, “that will transform the area into a family friendly public space.” RHAA also designed the City’s Prewett Park Community Center.
Source: City of Antioch
Then, in May 2023, the City announced in a press release, “the development of a new gathering place in downtown Antioch” and invited the public, “to share your vision for the future central attraction of historic Rivertown. This new outdoor public space is uniquely situated along the Sacramento-San Joaquin River. It will benefit our diverse community by fostering a vibrant, thriving downtown.” The survey is still available on the City’s website at Antioch Rivertown Community Open Space Design Survey.
Rivertown Community Space location aerial photo and renderings. Source: City of Antioch
The Parks & Recreation Department currently has a page on the City’s website dedicated to the Rivertown Community Space that offers renderings of what a park, there could look like and a link to the survey.
Then in February 2024, the City held two Community Design Workshops to obtain public input on the development of the new gathering place at the former Beede Lumber Yard.
But no results of that survey or the workshops have been provided to the Council or public.
Then, at a recent Council meeting, Torres-Walker switched and said she now supports building homes there. However, because the City owns the property, any homes built there would have to be within the affordable range, which would undermine efforts to attract residents of means to the historic downtown area to live, shop and dine.
The former Barbara Price Marina Park and sign (inset). Source: Yelp It is now the location of the Marina Boat Ramp and parking lot. Source: City of Antioch
One argument offered in support of the River Town Square project is the City’s downtown hasn’t had a large park since the much larger Barbara Price Marina Park was replaced with the marina boat launch and parking lot in 2012. Concerts and community events are held in Waldie Plaza, but it’s much smaller and can hold fewer attendees than at the proposed River Town Square.
According to the staff report for Tuesday’s agenda, the Parks and Recreation Commission discussed use of the grant at their meeting on February 19, 2026. The commissioners were provided with an overview of the grant program requirements, eligibility criteria and the Community Fact Finder tool https://www.parksforcalifornia.org/communities/ which assists agencies in determining project eligibility and priority status for grant funding.
Since that meeting, staff conducted a preliminary evaluation of potential project sites and narrowed the focus of the Proposition 4 grant opportunity to two locations: City Park and the Beede Lumber Yard site.
Source: Townsend Public Affairs presentation to City Council 8/11/26
City Park was last significantly renovated more than 20 years ago and continues to serve as one of Antioch’s most heavily utilized park facilities. According to Placer.ai visitation data, City Park ranks as the City’s most visited park. The site presents an opportunity for a transformational community investment that could include improvements such as a synthetic turf field, an all-inclusive playground, renovated and fully operational restroom facilities, pickleball courts, enhanced gathering spaces, and other recreational amenities. Due to its central location, City Park also has the potential to generate income from user groups and continue to be a community hub.
Source: Presentation to Antioch City Council by Townsend Public Affairs
The staff report continues: The Beede Lumber Yard site is currently an undeveloped property located in Downtown Antioch. Preliminary community outreach and conceptual renderings for a future park at this location were completed in 2024. Development of the site would create a new public park and gathering space in the downtown area, further supporting community activation, recreation opportunities, and economic vitality.
Source: Townsend Public Affairs presentation to City Council 8/11/26
While development of a new park at the Beede Lumber Yard site would result in additional annual maintenance and operational costs estimated between $200,000 and $250,000, public spaces in downtown areas can provide broader economic and community benefits by attracting visitors, supporting local businesses, and creating a “third place” for residents to gather outside of home and work.
Both locations appear to meet the preliminary eligibility requirements of the Proposition 4 grant program and present significant opportunities to expand recreational amenities and enhance quality of life for Antioch residents.
Staff is seeking City Council direction regarding which project site should be advanced for further evaluation, community engagement, conceptual design and grant application development.
Renderings by both the River Town Square proponents and RHAA include a concert stage, grass, trees, benches and pathways. The RHAA renderings include an amphitheater for seating near the corner of W. 3rd and E Streets.
The playground at City Park. Photo: City of Antioch
Consultant Recommends City Park
In the presentation by consulting firm Townsend Public Affairs, who was hired by the City to provide state and federal legislative advocacy and grant writing services, they recommend the Council choose City Park as the location for the state grant funds.
They wrote, “City Park is definitively the most competitive project site across both selection criteria (lack of park space and significant poverty). While TPA and the City of Antioch considered multiple potential project sites, other options that were able to demonstrate significant poverty were less competitive in terms of park space, primarily due to their proximity to Corteva Wetlands Preserve and other large preservation areas.”
River Town Square and Save The Yard supporters in the July 4th Parades in 2026 and 2016 (right). Herald file photos
River Town Square Supporters Continue Effort
At one point, supporters of the River Town Square project said the cost would be covered privately without any City funds. But with the potential state grant funds, the supporters have changed to asking the Council to fund it.
Since 2015 supporters have maintained a Facebook page, participated in parades including this year’s Independence Day Parade, and launched an effort on Change.org, posted by Kim Stadtler, asking for people to sign a petition until tomorrow, Sunday, Aug. 9th. So far, 836 people of the 1,000 goal have added their names. She wrote:
“The Issue
“What would a Town Square mean to you?
“For decades, residents have advocated for preserving one of the last large historic waterfront sites (at 2nd and E Streets), known as the “Yard” in downtown Antioch for a community Rivertown Square. Volunteers have organized petitions, attended meetings, participated in workshops, and contributed ideas to help shape a vision for a Rivertown Square.
“This petition continues that community-driven effort and demonstrates that residents remain committed to creating a public space that serves all of Antioch. This spacious area is not just a piece of land; it represents a precious opportunity for our community allowing seniors, families, and people from all walks of life to come together and enjoy a versatile community space.
Concept Design 01 for the Rivertown Community Space by RHAA Landscape Architecture & Planning. Source: City of Antioch
“Once this property is developed for another use, the opportunity to create a town square may be lost forever.
“Turning this space into a Town Square would create a hub for recreation, cultural events, farmers markets, and community celebrations. The town square could serve as a vibrant gathering place that celebrates our diverse community and enhances the quality of life for everyone in Antioch.
“To make this vision a reality, we need the Antioch City Council to choose the “Yard” in their application for the Prop 47 grant of up to $8 million, to build our Town Square. THIS MONEY CAN ONLY BE USED FOR THE RENOVATION OR DEVELOPMENT OF A COMMUNITY GREEN SPACE. By securing these funds, we can ensure that the site truly reflects the needs and desires of our community, transforming it into a welcoming venue that honors our diverse history.
“Numerous cities (Pittsburg, Brentwood, Oakley, Clayton) have benefited from similar initiatives, finding that such spaces boost local business and improve public well-being. The town square would be a testament to the city’s commitment to revitalizing downtown.
“PLEASE SIGN THIS PETITION by August 9th, 2026, and urge the Antioch City Council to seize this opportunity and use these grant funds to build our Town Square. Together, we can make a lasting difference for Antioch’s future! Take action now.”
Concept Design 02 for the Rivertown Community Space by RHAA Landscape Architecture & Planning. Source: City of Antioch
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.
KP LAUNCH Program Coordinator Stephanie Ponce with Summer Intern Jessica Chambers and Jessica in her scrubs at Kaiser Permanente Antioch Medical Center. Photos: Kaiser Permanente
Including Antioch resident, an LMC student
By Elissa Harrington, Senior Media Relations & Public Relations Representative, Kaiser Permanente Northern California
Stephanie Ponce, an Antioch resident and student at Los Medanos College in Pittsburg, spent her summer interning at the Kaiser Permanente Antioch Medical Center.
She applied for the eight-week paid summer internship program, earning $25.09-$29.16 per hour, after taking a college course that piqued her interest in medicine.
“This is an amazing opportunity to see if health care is for you,” said Ponce. “There are many jobs in health care that aren’t just working with patients, but also administrative roles.”
Ponce is one of more than 300 interns who participated in Kaiser Permanente’s KP LAUNCH program. The paid internship gives high school and college aged students exposure to careers in health care at Kaiser Permanente hospitals and medical offices. They learn practical skills and receive mentoring from health care professionals.
Ponce said she did administrative work and had the chance to shadow pediatric nurses. She watched one nurse help a child who was scared to get a shot. “I saw how she comforted the patient during a shot. She stayed there, talked to them, and explained what the medication was and how it was going to work.”
Jessica Chambers is a Program Coordinator for the KP LAUNCH program at the Antioch Medical Center. She helped with scheduling and coordinated with the departments on how to provide opportunities for the interns to learn and grow.
“We educated the interns on a variety of different topics,” said Chambers. “We have different people who come out and tell them a little bit about their departments or their jobs.”
Chambers said it was important to keep the interns engaged every day and provide them with opportunities to develop their skills. “We gave the interns an opportunity to see what it looks like in real life. We also had a variety of different guest speakers, because every journey is not the same,” she said.
Ponce said she has always loved helping people, and this internship confirmed she’s on the right career path: “It reinforced my love for health care and doing a people-facing job like this.”
