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. UPDATE: Mayor Pro Tem Don Freitas and City PIO Jaden Baird later explained that including West 1st Street was a mistake and the negotiations are only about the golf and event center.
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.
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.
Inclusionary Housing Ordinance will require developers to privately-subsidize housing bysetting aside 15% of new units for low-income buyers/residents or pay a $200K per unit fee
Will also establish affordable Inclusionary Housing Trust Fund requiring more City staff
Building Industry says ordinance not state required, will have opposite effect
“The higher the inclusionary requirement, the fewer market-rate homes are constructed” – UC Berkeley, UCLA joint study
Participants might not be allowed to keep increase in equity, but share it with City instead
By Allen D. Payton
During their meeting tomorrow night, Tuesday, March 10, 2026, the Antioch City Council will require new home developers to set aside 15% of housing units for Very Low-Income, Low-Income, and Moderate Income households. Although it’s not required by the state and opposed by the Building Industry Association of the Bay Area, on February 4, 2026, the Planning Commission voted 4-0, with two members absent, to recommend the City Council adopt an Inclusionary Housing Ordinance (IHO). The IHO would apply to both single-family homes and both for rent and for sale multi-family projects.
Antioch would be only the eighth city out of 19 to approve such an ordinance.
Program Participants Might Not Get to Keep Equity Growth or Must Share it With City
The lower-income homebuyers who would participate in and benefit by the program would be able to purchase the same home as their neighbors but at a much lower price. Yet, when they sell the home, they might only be allowed to keep the amount of their original downpayment but not receive any of the increase in equity as the home must be resold to another buyer who qualifies, whenever the sale occurs “in perpetuity”. The other option would be the seller would have to share the increase in equity with the City.
Section 3.3 DISPOSITION REQUIREMENTS of the Financial Feasibility Analysis for the ordinance reads:
“An inclusionary ordinance will likely require that households purchasing an affordable unit qualify based
on income and that the sales price qualify as affordable to that household. The program will also have to identify what restriction, if any, will be applied to future resales of these affordable units. Different state and federal programs have different requirements.
We recommend that the city’s ordinance restrict future resales so that the purchasing household also be income-qualified and the sales price represents an affordable housing payment for the purchasing household. We further recommend that this restriction be enforced by a deed restriction for a period of 45 years. This would be consistent with some federal affordable housing programs, but it is worth noting that it is unlikely that federal funding would be involved with mixed-income inclusionary housing projects.
As an alternative, Antioch could consider using provisions similar to the State Density Bonus Law. The original purchaser would still have to be income-qualified and the sales price would have to be qualified as affordable to the purchasing household. The purchasing household would not be restricted from selling the property in the future at then market-rates or to selling to households that are not qualified as low income. However, there would be an equity sharing agreement, and the city would receive the amount of the original sales price write-down and a proportional share of any appreciation in value. Antioch could then use its share of the sales price to support other affordable housing projects and programs.”
However, the proposed ordinance in Section 9-5.4308 – Ongoing Affordability and Occupancy reads, “A. Ongoing Affordability of For-Sale Units. In order to maintain the availability of For-Sale Inclusionary Units constructed pursuant to this Article, the affordable sales prices of for-sale Inclusionary Units shall be restricted in perpetuity, and reset upon resale of the unit(s), as documented through an Inclusionary Housing Agreement, as prescribed in Section 9-5.4305.F, recorded against the property.”
Program Details, Previous Findings Stated Antioch IHO “Not Warranted…Not Reasonable”
According to the City staff report for the agenda item, #8, an IHO is a zoning tool that requires developers to allocate a percentage of housing units in market-rate developments as “affordable”, or below-market rate (BMR) units. Many HOs include the option of paying a fee (“in-lieu” fee) rather than building the required affordable units onsite.
Inclusionary ordinances require that a specific percentage of units in market-rate development projects be offered at below market rates, typically to Very Low-Income (VLI), Low-Income (LI), and Moderate Income (MI) households (see below for definitions). These percentages are known as inclusionary requirements.
Developers would be given the option to instead pay an in-lieu fee, which is proposed at $202,500 per unit, and the City would collect the fees and be deposited into an Inclusionary Housing Trust Fund (IHTF) to be used for affordable housing purposes. The purpose of the IHTF is to assist in the creation and preservation of affordable housing in the City of Antioch for the benefit of extremely low, very low, low and moderate-income households.
The staff report also explained that Antioch has considered adopting an IHO since approximately 2009. Past City leadership concluded that market rate housing in Antioch was already adequately affordable. In 2016, the Contra Costa Grand Jury released a report titled Where Will We Live: The Affordable Housing Waiting List Is Closed. The report recommended that Antioch should consider adopting an IHO. The City responded to this recommendation on August 9, 2016, stating that the City, assuming 2000-2009 home values, “already provides a diversity of housing options and is accessible to households of all income levels…” Therefore, an IHO was “not warranted and is not reasonable.”
IHO Income Levels
The Area Median Income (AMI) per household in Contra Costa County is $159,800. The three categories of affordable housing typically accommodated in IHOs are:
Very Low-Income (VLI) Housing. Units affordable to households earning 0-50% of the Area Median Income (AMI).
Low-Income (LI) Housing. Units affordable to households earning 51-80% of AMI.
Moderate Income (MI) Housing. Units affordable to households earning 80-120% of AMI.
The State also recognizes Above-Moderate Income Housing, which are units affordable to households earning more than 120% of AMI. However, this affordability level is not provided for in IHOs.
Proposed Ordinance Applies Citywide Including New Sand Creek Area Subdivisions
The proposed City of Antioch Inclusionary Housing Ordinance is composed of the following basic regulations:
Applicable Geography. The proposed IHO requirements apply to Residential Development Projects citywide.
Affordability Term. The proposed IHO requires all BMR units to be affordable in perpetuity.
Threshold Project Size. The proposed IHO requirements apply to all Residential Development Projects consisting of five or more units.
Income and Affordability Requirements. As proposed, 15 percent of all new Residential Development Projects shall be affordable to VLI and LI incomes.
Specifically:
Ten percent of the BMR units shall be affordable to VLI households.
Five percent of the BMR units shall be affordable to LI households.
The first BMR unit shall be affordable to VLI households, the second unit shall be affordable to LI households, and so forth for all the BMR units in the project.
Affordability Standards. The proposed IHO includes standards to ensure that affordable units are of the same quality as Market Rate Units. Per the IHO, all affordable units shall:
Be built in the same proportion as the Market Rate Units.
Have an average square footage of at least 90 percent of Market Rate Units with the same bedroom count.
Be developed with the same bedroom count ratio as the Market Rate Units.
Have the same quality of exterior design and overall quality of construction as the Market Rate Units.
Have the same quality and type of interior finishes and features as the Market Rate Units.
Meet all site, design, and construction standards included in the City’s Building Regulations, Planning and Zoning.
Only seven other cities out of 19 in the county, plus, the County have IHO’s. Source: City of Antioch
Planning Commission Recommendations
During the Feb. 4th Planning Commission meeting one member of the public opposed the IHO with six members of the public representing coalitions of housing advocates spoke in favor. A letter in support was submitted by Joey Flegel-Mishlove, East Bay Housing Organizations, on behalf of California Center for Movement Legal Services, Contra Costa Budget Justice Coalition, East Bay Alliance for a Sustainable Economy, East Bay Housing Organizations, Ensuring Opportunity Campaign to End Poverty in Contra Costa County, Hope Solutions, Lift Up Contra Costa County, Monument Impact, Multi-Faith ACTION Coalition, Public Advocates, Rising Juntos and United Latino Voices of Contra Costa County. They wanted to set “the IHO’s overall inclusionary rate at 20%.”
The Commission provided recommendations and requested that the City Attorney review them prior to the City Council reviewing the IHO including:
That the housing units created with the IHTF shall be prioritized for residents of Antioch.
However, the City Attorney responded, “the City of Antioch generally cannot lawfully adopt a broad resident-priority rule for assistance funded by inclusionary in-lieu fees, particularly for homebuyer subsidies. California law strongly protects statewide housing objectives and fair housing principles, and such a preference would likely conflict with those goals.”
That the IHO and IHTF gives preference to local unions.
But the City Attorney responded, “the City of Antioch cannot lawfully require private developers to give priority to union labor over non-union contractors on inclusionary housing projects. Such a requirement would first be preempted by federal law under the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), which governs private-sector labor relations and occupies the field to the exclusion of most local regulation.”
Developers’ Share Concerns
According to the staff report, during a December 2024 workshop, local housing developers “stressed that the difficulty of qualifying for home loans may impede the function of an IHO. Per participants, lower income households in Contra Costa typically face severe economic barriers to mortgage qualification, including an adequate down payment. As such, requiring the construction of for-sale units for very low-income or low-income households may be an unproductive path toward privately subsidized affordable housing.”
Building Industry Says IHO’s Aren’t State Required, Don’t Work, Benefits “Lucky” Few
In a letter to the council members and commissioners for the study session during the Planning Commission meeting on April 16, 2025, the Eastern Division of the Building Industry Association of the Bay Area submitted a letter opposing the ordinance saying they aren’t required by the state and they don’t work, making the cost to build the market rate housing to high.
The letter reads, “the California Housing & Community Development staff informs us that no jurisdiction is required to study the feasibility of an inclusionary ordinance or adopt such a program as part of the housing element review process.”
The BIA letter also includes a policy brief published in 2019 and updated in 2021by the Mercatus Center at George Mason University which “found that none of the six major studies of inclusionary programs show that they increase the housing supply or lower prices. Instead, much of the research comes to the opposite conclusion: Except for a very small number of people lucky enough to secure one of the affordable units, inclusionary programs cause overall housing prices and rents to rise, further reducing affordability for everyone else.”
“‘Relying on new housing construction to provide subsidized units is not a strategy that can lead to more housing that’s affordable for more people,’ wrote research fellow Emily Hamilton. ‘In cases where inclusionary zoning raises house prices generally, the costs of the policy fall hardest on the lowest-income.’”
An IHO “improves housing affordability for a few at the risk of worsening affordability for many, and it taxes precisely the activity needed to ameliorate the housing shortage and bring down rents: development.”
The BIA letter also states, “a 15 percent inclusionary requirement is infeasible for all single-family large lot developments and only partially feasible for single-family small lot and townhome developments. On the rental side, only high-density multifamily projects are fully feasible for very low, low and moderate income households. The market for very dense rental housing in Antioch is limited, at best. Overall, adopting a 10 or 15 percent inclusionary requirement will result in fewer homes being built in Antioch.”
The BIA requests City “staff to work with the development industry on alternative incentive-based approaches.”
Local Real Estate Broker Says IHO “Unnecessary”, “Built on…Fundamentally Socialist Ideology…Failed Model”
In a letter to the Commission, local real estate broker, Mark Jordan wrote, “an inclusionary housing ordinance is unnecessary, unsupported by current case law, and of questionable constitutional validity. Adoption of this ordinance would expose the City to avoidable legal and financial risk.” His letter cited a successful lawsuit against City of East Palo Alto and as a result, “significantly modified its inclusionary housing ordinance” and possibly paid the man who sued that city.
In a previous email to the City Council dated Sept. 15, 2025, Jordan wrote, “Though rarely stated outright, the lnclusionary Housing Ordinance is built on a fundamentally socialist ideology-one that demands others pay the price for systemic outcomes beyond their control. But socialism, like Marxism, is a failed model. It doesn’t uplift communities; it burdens them and eventually collapses under its own weight.
“If life hasn’t turned out the way we want, the answer isn’t to demand others pay the price. The answer is to adapt, to work harder, to upskill, to disengage from distractions-and to pursue our own happiness through self-reliance.
“In closing, I urge you to table this ordinance. It is ill-timed, legally risky, economically unwise, and ideologically misguided.”
Antioch Housing Already Affordable, Hundreds of Units Already Approved or in Approval Process
The City is already meeting its Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) requirements for very low- and low-income housing. A total of 1,248 new housing units are required in those categories. Yet, as previously reported, over 2,000 apartment units have either been or can be approved by staff through the 10 Commercial Infill Housing Overlay Districts about by the City Council in 2022, many of which will be affordable, including in the extremely-low, very-low and low-income housing categories.
In addition, according to Redfin.com, “The housing market in Antioch, CA, is currently competitive, with homes selling for a median price of $603K. The market is somewhat competitive, with homes selling in about 40 days on average. The median sale price per square foot is $306, down 3.2% since last year. In December 2025, Antioch home prices were down 1.2%.”
Finally, according to Realtor.com, “The housing market in Contra Costa County, CA, presents a range of home values and prices. As of February 2026, the median price for a single-family home is $780,000, with a median AVM value of $801,000 for properties sold in the last year.” According to RocketMortgage.com, AVM value is “an estimated property value generated by an Automated Valuation Model using algorithms and real estate data.”
Questions for Mayor, Council Members
An email was sent to the mayor and four council members Monday afternoon, asking questions about the ordinance:
They were asked, “since it’s not required by state law why do you feel an IHO is necessary in Antioch, since our city is already going to have at least five if not 10 more affordable housing apartment complexes as part of the Commercial Infill Housing Overlay Districts?”
They were also asked, “why does the proposed ordinance apply citywide and therefore include the remaining Sand Creek Focus Area developments that have yet to be approved, when those homes have long been intended to be the more upscale, higher priced homes for that end of our housing mix?”
Finally, they were asked, “why use this option to achieve the RHNA requirements when Antioch homes are less expensive than the average throughout the county?”
No responses were received to the email and further efforts to contact each of the council members were unsuccessful prior to publication time. Please check back later for any updates to this report.
Council Meeting Details
The Council meeting begins with a Closed Session at 4:30 p.m. for a Conference with legal counsel regarding “significant exposure to litigation.”
That will be followed at 5:00 p.m. for a Special Meeting/Study Session on the fiscal year 2026-27 budget and an update on the Code Enforcement Division’s progress and operations.
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.
Commercial Infill Housing Overlay District Sites Map shows the 10 parcels rezoned in 2022. Source: City of Antioch
No Planning Commission, Council decisions or public input required due to Council votes in 2022 to rezone 10 commercial properties to include Extremely Low, Very Low and Low-Incomehousing and mixed-use development; not state required
By Allen D. Payton
It’s been over 20 years since the residents who live near the Antioch golf course rose up in 2004 and successfully defeated a proposed apartment complex on Blue Rock Drive on the north side of Lone Tree Way. Yet Antioch City staff have “Approved, Administratively” an Extremely Low, Very Low and Low-Income, 233-unit apartment complex on the south side of Lone Tree Way next to the CVS store and shopping center without any public hearings before the Planning Commission or City Council.
But it’s only one of 10 sites throughout the city where the same conversion from commercial zoning to residential development can occur due to multiple votes by the City Council in 2022 where almost 2,500 affordable apartments can be built. Over 2,000 units only require city staff approval. Currently, four of the 10 sites have projects in process and have already been approved by staff, including the largest project, the 702-unit Somersville Town Center apartment complex.
That’s because higher density residential is allowed by right under the Regional Commercial land use designation of the General Plan due to a 2022 amendment to the General Plan Use Element (GP22-01), approved by the City Council, that added a “Commercial Infill Housing Policy.” Pursuant to this policy, the Council designated the various sites with a Commercial Infill Housing (“CIH”) overlay.
Aerial photo of site of the administratively approved Joyfield at Lakeview Center Apartments on Lone Tree Way near Golf Course Road behind the CVS store. Source: City of Antioch. Labels by the Herald
As part of the strategic infill housing study process in 2022, the specific sites within Antioch were rezoned to allow for the streamlined development of medium- and high-density residential and mixed-use projects. These infill sites are typically vacant and / or underutilized commercial areas of the City.
According to the City staff report for the City Council meeting agenda item on April 12, 2022, “The intent with this policy is to encourage revitalization in commercial developments that have commercial vacancies and relocation of commercial activity to other parts of the city. These sites are eligible for streamlined review subject to compliance with objective standards. This fulfills the need to add more housing through the building of medium and high-density housing and allows for existing commercial sites to be developed with high quality residential development.”
Unanimous Council Votes in Favor of Rezoning
During that meeting, the council voted unanimously through five separate motions to approve the Zoning Map Amendments and Rezone the 10 sites to include a CIH Overlay District designation, an addendum to the 2003 General Plan Environmental Impact Report, the General Plan Amendment, establishing Commercial In-Fill Housing Policies in the Land Use Element, the project’s Objective Design Standards and other administrative requirements to implement the changes.
Nine sites are currently developed with existing commercial uses, requiring demolition, and vary in size from 4.9 to 40.9 acres. One site, located at the southeast corner of Crestview Drive and W. 10th Street, is vacant and is 2.3 acres.
The 10 sites rezoned by the City Council are labeled as:
Lakeview Center – Estimated Units: 80. Actual: 233 See below.
In-Shape Shopping Center – Estimated Units: 267. Actual: 245 See below.
Deer Valley Plaza – Location of former AMC theaters building and parking lot. Estimated Units: 147. No plans yet submitted.
Hillcrest Summit – Estimated Units: 147. Actual: 165 See below.
Hillcrest Terrace – on Deer Valley Road next to McDonald’s, across from Safeway and the Hillcrest Crossings shopping center. Estimated Units: 189. Actual: 165 No plans yet submitted.(Owned by the Antioch Unified School District).
Buchanan Crossings – Estimated Units: 81. Actual: 195 See below.
Delta Fair Shopping Center – Estimated Units: 221 Submitted: 210 Withdrawn See below.
Somersville Towne Center – Estimated Units: 720. Actual: 702 See below.
99 Cents Only/Big Lots shopping center – on Somersville Road. Estimated Units: 113. No plans yet submitted.
Crestview Drive/W. 10th Street – empty lot near Enterprise Rent-A-Car. Estimated Units: 115. No plans yet submitted.
Votes, including two split, on individual sites occurred as follows:
On Nov. 22, 2022, the council voted to rezone and include in CIH Overlay Districts for both the Lakeview Center (Ayes: Ogorchock, Wilson, Barbanica, Thorpe; Noes: Torres-Walker) and Buchanan Crossings (Ayes: Ogorchock, Wilson, Thorpe; Noes: Torres-Walker, Barbanica recused himself) and on Dec. 13, 2022, the council unanimously approved them during the second reading as part of the Consent Calendar.
City of Antioch Principal Planner Kevin Scudero was asked about those votes and when the other eight sites were rezoned and included in CIH Overlay Districts by the City Council. He responded, “The City Council adopted the CIH Overlay on April 12, 2022. The Lakeview Center and Buchanan Crossings parcels were part of the original approval but there was an error in processing and some parcels within the center that were intended to be included were left out of the ordinance. The action on November 22, 2022, was a cleanup to add in the parcels that were mistakenly left off of the original approval.”
Asked if any additional parcels been added to the list of 10, Scudero responded, “No parcels have been added.”
Not State Required
Although the City was awarded $310,000 in SB 2 The Building Homes and Jobs Act grant funding to study feasibility of providing infill, high-density residential development on underutilized and vacant commercial sites, the rezoning was not required by state mandate.
No Additional Commission or Council Meetings with Public Input Required
Once a site has a CIH overlay, residential development is a permitted use under the General Plan. Furthermore, the entitlement process for a residential development within the CIH Overlay is ministerialprovided the proposed project is consistent with the applicable CIH Overlay District Objective Design Standards. That means no additional Planning Commission or City Council hearings with public input are required.
So, instead of future potential commercial and employment areas as the City grows south into the Sand Creek Focus Area, the designated properties will now be used to build over 2,000 apartments and townhomes. Since the change in 2022, developers have been submitting applications to build on many of the sites.
Following are the projects on the City’s Community Development Department, Planning Division’s Current Projects webpage:
Joyfield at Lakeview Center Apartments read and front views. Source: City of Antioch
233-Unit Extremely Low, Very Low and Low-Income Lakeview Center ApartmentsNear Golf Cours Road
Labeled “Lakeview Center Multi-family”, it’s described as “Commercial Infill Housing, Administrative Design Review Request for a Multi-family development with 233 affordable units.”
Currently, the General Plan designations for the four parcels on 7.56 acres are Office, Neighborhood Community Commercial or both and each has a CIH overlay zoning. The project has been “Approved, Administratively.”
Source: City of Antioch
Development plans show seven new 3- and 4-story buildings included in the project by Los Angeles-based Standard Communities. The Project will include 350 on-grade parking stalls, community amenities, and site landscaping. The apartments will be single level and arranged in a “stacked flat” configuration. Each unit will be accessed through stairways with direct access to the parking areas. There will be 109 one-bedroom 607 s.f. units, 58 two-bedroom 793 s.f. units and 66 three-bedroom 1,008 s.f. units included.
The architectural style for the Project is “California Contemporary,” simple, and sophisticated. The amenity building is located at the center of the Project and includes a leasing center, clubhouse, business center, fitness center and laundry. The indoor amenity areas will connect to the landscaped courtyard which will include a BBQ area, lounge seating and tot lot. The Project will also have a dog park.
Site map for the Lone Tree Apartments near In-Shape health club. Source: City of Antioch
245-Unit Lone Tree Apartments at In-Shape Shopping Center
The Lone Tree Way Apartments project, proposed by The Spanos Corporation of Stockton, sits on 8.93 acres in Antioch, located between Bluerock Drive and Eagleridge Drive near the In Shape health club. The project, submitted in May 2023, and also “Approved, Administratively”, consists of 245 apartment units within (5) 49-plex, 4 story buildings as well as a stand-alone 2-story community clubhouse (approximately 9,400 SF). Each building is served by an elevator with interior-conditioned corridors. Units will range from 477 SF studios to 1,047 SF 2-bedrooms.
Renderings of the administratively approved Lone Tree Apartments near In-Shape and graphics showing the businesses approved by the city council last year. Source: City of Antioch
Each unit will include washer/dryer, private balcony, and luxury interior finishes. Located centrally within each building will be a pet spa and bicycle café. The community clubhouse will include a leasing center, great room, fitness center, mail and parcel room, game room, theater, sports simulator, rooftop deck and more. Outdoor amenities will include a pool, spa, cabana, fire pit, bocce ball, tot lot, dog park and pickle ball court.
Last year, a commercial project was approved to be located in front of the apartment complex, along Lone Tree Way, which will include a Chipotle Mexican Grill, Habit Burger & Grill and Mister car wash.
Hillcrest Summit Apartments Location Map. Source: City of Antioch
165-Unit Hillcrest Summit Apartments
Administrative review for a 165-unit, 100% affordable apartment development, complete with associated parking and site improvements on a Commercial Infill Housing site also “Approved, Administratively”.
Hillcrest Summit Apartments is a proposed 100% affordable apartment project at Hillcrest Avenue and Shaddick Drive on a vacant site behind the 76 Service Station and 7-Eleven. Effective May 26, 2022, the property was included in the Commercial Infill Housing (CIH) Overlay District. The new zoning classification allows for by-right housing development for projects in compliance with Objective Design Standards.
Hillcrest Summit Apartments AMI figures. Source: City of Antioch
In accordance with the purpose of the CIH Overlay District, the project aims to revitalize the underutilized commercial site and increase the city’s housing supply. The convenient location is less than a half-mile from the Antioch BART Station, near access onto Highway 4, and includes a bus stop at the Hillcrest frontage. The project will include 165 residential units on four levels.
165-Unit Hillcrest Terrace Apartments – No Project Yet Submitted
This project, planned for the vacant property located next to the McDonald’s and across Deer Valley Road from the Hillcrest Crossings/Safeway shopping center, consists of a 165-unit affordable senior housing project. The CIH Overlay District would allow for up to 189 units on the 6.3-acre parcel.
The only information about the project available is regarding a loan from the City’s former redevelopment agency. According to a City staff report in the 2023 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for the Council meeting on Feb. 13, 2024, “In October 1998, the former redevelopment agency made a commitment for $731,175 in housing set-aside funds towards this project.
“Commencing on the first date of disbursement, the loan accrues simple interest at 3% per annum. The 55-year term loan is secured by a deed of trust. Commencing on the June 1 after project completion, and on June 1 of each year thereafter, the developer will pay the Agency one-half of the residual receipts to the extent there is residual receipts. Payments will be first credited against accrued interest and then against principal. Any outstanding principal and interest is due and payable in full in June 2055. In September 2001, the Agency made a commitment of an additional $200,000 due and payable October 1, 2038. Principal and interest outstanding for these loans at June 30, 2023, is $1,599,570.”
Scudero confirmed ownership of the property. “According to our records this site is still owned by the (Antioch Unified) school district,” he wrote. However, there are no current plans submitted for the site.
Source: City of Antioch
195 Affordable Apartments on Buchanan Road next to Grocery Outlet
Standard Communities of Los Angeles has another affordable apartment complex in Antioch, known as Buchanan Crossings Phase II, which was also “Approved, Administratively.” The application is for a residential 100% affordable multifamily development project on 6.22 acres along Buchanan Road that will include residential apartment units with associated parking, amenity areas and site landscaping as well as frontage improvements along Buchanan Road.
Buchanan Crossings Phase II AMI Units. Source: City of Antioch
The Project will consist of six new 3-story buildings with a total of 195 total affordable residential apartments and 293 on-grade parking stalls. There will be 91 one-bedroom, 49 two-bedroom and 55 three-bedroom units included in the complex.
Both parcels are located within the Western Antioch Commercial Focus Area of the Antioch General Plan and have a Regional Commercial land use designation and the CIH designation added in 2022.
Rendering of proposed Delta Fair Village apartment complex from 2020. Source: City of Antioch
210-Unit Delta Fair Shopping Center Apartments – Withdrawn
The project, which proposed a 4,000 s.f. commercial building and 210 apartments, known as the Delta Fair Village, was withdrawn by the developer after the City Council voted 3-2 in Sept. 2020 to postpone indefinitely his application. That was before the CIH policies were approved and the property rezoned to allow for high-density housing. At that time the plans show the residential units to be condominiums.
Somersville Towne Center Master Plan Aerial Concept with 702 administratively approved apartments. Source: City of Antioch
702-Unit Somersville Town Center Apartment Complex
The largest, new apartment complex currently in process in Antioch, will be the redevelopment of a majority of the Somersville Town Center shopping mall which has also been “Approved, Administratively” due to its location in a Commercial Infill Housing (CIH) Overlay District.
The existing mall includes 500,000 sf+/- of retail floor area. When the buildout is complete the approximately forty-acre site will include 702 new apartment units and 124,872+/- of commercial space.
Development is proposed to occur in two phases. Following demolition of most of the existing shopping mall, the first phase would begin at the northern part of the site and include eleven residential buildings, comprising 330 apartment units. Three-story, walk-up apartment buildings would be arrayed along Fairview Drive and Delta Fair Boulevard, with a central clubhouse facility.
Phase Two will complete the residential master plan adding 372 units in twelve buildings. The resulting design will define two distinct apartment villages, each with a unique architectural identity and community character. On-site parking will provide covered parking spaces for all of the units.
OTHER AFFORDABLE APARTMENT PROJECTS
Wildflower Senior Apartments Project site map. Source: City of Antioch
180-Unit Wildflower Senior Apartments
In addition to the administratively approved apartment complexes on the various CIH Overlay District sites, the 180-unit Wildflower Senior Apartments are planned for the corner of Wildflower Drive and Hillcrest Avenue. According to the Project Description, it is a proposed 100% affordable, senior apartment project on a 3.77-acre, vacant site located across Wildflower Drive from the previously approved Wildflower Station Multi-Family project and across Hillcrest Avenue from the Chevron gas station.
The General Plan land use is High-Density Residential with a zoning designation of R-35. The site is identified in the 2023-2031 Housing Element as Site 112. As a Housing Element site, the property has been targeted for redevelopment.
Rendering of Wildflower Senior Apartments Project. Source: City of Antioch
Within the building, a mix of one- and two-bedroom units make up the 180 residential units on four levels arranged around the central courtyard. The 102 one-bedroom units are approximately 559 s.f. each and make up 56.7% of the units. There are also 78 two-bedroom units (43.3% of total) at approximately 771 s.f. each. Two, one-bedroom units will be utilized as manager’s units.
The project will provide 100% of the residential units at 60% Area Median Income (AMI) or less and is currently in processing.
Apartments at Lone Tree site map. Source: City of Antioch
395 Apartments, 101 Townhomes Planned for Lone Tree Way Not Part of CIH But Some Units Will be Affordable
While, according to Principal Planner Scudero, the proposed project labeled, Apartments at Lone Tree, is not part of the CIH zoning overlay district, “the City Council approved the rezoning of the property from commercial to high-density residential in January 2023 as part of the Housing Element approval.”
The project by The Martin Group based in Oakland, is planned for the north side of Lone Tree Way between Country Hills Drive and Deer Valley Road, below the Seventh Day Adventist Church and Hilltop Christian School. The developer proposes 395 apartment units consisting of 25 or 33 junior one-bedroom, 261 or 253 one-bedrooms, and 109 two-bedrooms. In addition, proposed townhome buildings include a total of 84 two-bedroom, 2-bath, 1-car and 27 three-bedroom, 2.5-bath, 2-car units. This project includes 616 vehicle parking stalls with 399 surface parking spaces, and 220 proposed garage spaces. The project sponsor proposes to develop the property per the California state density bonus law.
The 19 townhome buildings are planned for the west end of the property along Country Hills Drive. The four apartment buildings and clubhouse are planned for the center of the property facing Lone Tree Way and the east end near the intersection with Deer Valley Road.
Apartments at Lone Tree aerial map with locations of photos included in the plans. Source: City of Antioch
The project sponsor proposes to develop the property per the California state density bonus law (government code sections 65915-65918). The proposed project can utilize the concessions, incentives and waivers that are afforded.
While the CIH Overlay District is not required by the state, according to the 2021 Guide to the California Density Bonus Law by the Meyers Nave law firm, the Density Bonus is a state mandate requiring cities to adopt ordinances to implement the law. It “provides developers with powerful tools to encourage the development of affordable and senior housing, including up to a 50% increase in project densities for most projects, depending on the amount of affordable housing provided, and an 80% increase in density for projects which are completely affordable.”
“A developer who meets the requirements of the state law is entitled to receive the density bonus and other benefits as a matter of right,” the Guide continues. “Special development bonuses are available for developers of commercial projects who partner with affordable housing developers to provide onsite or offsite affordable housing.”
The developer is currently processing the project application with City staff but did not provide in the Project Description the percentage of units that will be affordable and at what AMI levels.
Rendering of the proposed Apartments at Lone Tree. Source: City of Antioch
Scudero was asked questions regarding the Apartments at Lone Tree project. He was first informed of and asked about the discrepancy in unit totals as the Project Description reads, “PROPOSES A TOTAL OF 395 UNITS CONSISTING OF 33 JUNIOR ONE-BEDROOM, 253 ONE-BEDROOMS, AND 109 TWO-BEDROOMS. TOWNHOMES BUILDINGS PROPOSES A TOTAL OF 84 TWO-BEDROOM AND 27 THREE-BEDROOM TOWNHOMES.” But further down in the Unit and Area Summary chart it shows 25 Junior One-Bedroom and 261 One-Bedroom apartments.
Finally, the Project Description reads, “The project sponsor proposes to develop the property per the California state density bonus law (California government code sections 65915-65918). The proposed project can utilize the concessions/Incentives and waivers that are afforded.”
The state Density Bonus Law means a portion of the units will be affordable. Scudero was asked what percentage of the units will be affordable or if those numbers be submitted later.
Scudero responded, “Regarding the Lone Tree project, we have notified the applicant of the inconsistency in the plans and project description as part of our consistency review. Once we receive a revised submittal we will update the plans on the website. The total unit count of 506 units is correct. Regarding the density bonus, you are correct they will be providing affordable units. They have not determined yet what percentage of affordable they will propose to achieve the density bonus. That will come at a later date.
“Regarding the CIH site at Hillcrest that was approved as part of the original CIH approvals. The ordinance needs a second reading and goes into effect 30 days after that which is why the effective date is later than the original approval date,” he added.
City Staff Provides Additional Information
Questions were emailed to City staff, Mayor Ron Bernal and Councilmembers Don Freitas and Louie Rocha about the apartment and townhome projects.
Staff were asked if the parcels with projects that do not yet have administrative approval can be rezoned, the CIH overlays be eliminated and the projects be stopped. Principal City Planner Scudero responded, “Given the current complexities in state housing laws, we will need to look further into this question and get back to you.”
Staff were also asked if SB330, the state law that streamlines and limits local regulations on housing developments in California, applies to these projects since they’re apartments and not single-family residences. The townhome projects recently approved by the City Council at Wildflower Station and Slatten Ranch were submitted under the law and the council was required to approve them.
Scudero responded, “Yes, SB330 applies to all housing projects that are consistent with the General Plan and Zoning standards.”
The three council members were asked if they were aware of the CIH apartment projects and, if they can, are they willing to reverse the decision on parcels that don’t yet have a project that’s been administratively approved.
Creating Another Sycamore?
Both the councilmembers and staff were asked if approving 702 apartment units where most of Somersville Towne Center currently exists and must be demolished was going to create another Sycamore area, the City’s neighborhood with the greatest crime problems, with too many multi-family units in one area. They were also asked if some of those units could instead be approved as for sale, owner-occupied condominiums.
Scudero responded, “The decision to make a project for sale versus for rent is up to the developer. They are reviewed against the same objective design standards with the one difference being that a for sale project also requires the processing of a map for subdivision purposes.”
Questions Regarding Delta Fair and 99 Cents/Big Lots Shopping Center Projects
The four were also asked if someone has contacted Gabriel Chew, the owner of the property where the Delta Fair Village is proposed, to reconsider submitting and processing it. They were also asked if Chew owns the 99 Cents/Big Lots property and has there been any contact with him or the owner (if different) about redeveloping it.
Finally, they were asked about Deer Valley Plaza, where the former theaters building is located and is included on the list, but no plans have been submitted for it, yet, if it was purchased and going to be a mosque as has been rumored.
Scudero responded, “The Delta Fair Village property owned by Gabriel Chiu is included in the CIH Overlay district and the site is eligible to be developed under the streamlined CIH approval process. The former 99 Cents/Big Lots/CVS building is actually three separate parcels under separate ownership. A church has recently purchased the former CVS and obtained a use permit to operate there.”
A sign on the side of the former theaters building reads, “Bay Area Pentacostals”.
Bernal Must Check with Staff, City Attorney if Stopping Projects Not Yet Approved Possible
Bernal responded with, “I am aware of the overlays the Council approved in 2022 but do not know if the City can ‘undo’ these overlays and will have to find out from City staff and the City Attorney’s office if this is a possibility.
“Regarding Mr. Chiu, I have reached out to him but have been unable to arrange a time for us to meet,” the mayor continued. “My understanding is that he still owns shopping centers on Delta Fair Blvd., 18th and A Streets and Deer Valley Plaza. I’m told he sold the theater to a church which I have seen is currently being renovated.”
“I’ve been told the former CVS and 99 Cent stores at the Bank of America Center on Somersville Road have been purchased by La Palabra de Dios Church and are currently being renovated,” Bernal added, reiterating what Scudero shared.
Rocha Open to Reviewing Commercial Properties Not Yet Administratively Approved
In response to the questions posed to him, Rocha said, “I’m aware of the approved projects and in favor of reviewing all projects as we develop our new General Plan with a focus on rezoning of commercial properties that have not received Administrative Approvals.”
“We have learned the limitations to local government control with properties that were rezoned from commercial to residential under new legislation SB 330 that grants high density housing as part of the States response to the housing crisis without local approvals,” he continued. “I am in favor of advocating for mixed housing and commercial projects that support economic development that provides housing, business and local employment.”
Asked if he had nny concerns about too many low-income rental units being concentrated in one area of the city as part of the redevelopment of Somersville Towne Center and possibly creating more future crime problems, Rocha responded, “I’m in favor of mixed development that provides equitable opportunities for all members of our community.
Pressed again if he is concerned about too many low-income rental units being concentrated in one location, the councilman did not respond.
Barbanica Wanted Up-Scale Housing, Ogorchock Knew They Would be Affordable, Neither Were Aware They Only Required Staff Approval
At the time the CIH rezoning was proposed to the city council, Con Johnson was City Manager, Forrest Ebbs was Community Development Director and Kwame Reed was Economic Development Director.
When reached for comment about the matter, former District 2 Councilman Mike Barbanica said, “It was never the intent to be affordable, low-income housing. It was to be upscale housing and mixed use. I had several meetings with Forrest about rezoning the properties.”
Asked about her votes on the CIH Overlay Districts for the 10 properties, former District 3 Councilwoman Lori Ogorchock said, “Basically, I remember them being infill projects. The one that sticks in my mind was the property behind CVS on Lone Tree Way.”
“I don’t remember them ever allowing them to be administratively approved,” she continued.
“I didn’t meet with Con Johnson because he never had answers and he was going to ask department heads for the answers and then never got back to me,” Ogorchock offered. “He didn’t want us meeting us with department heads without his presence. But I would talk to Forrest.”
“I would have never voted for anything if it was only administratively approved,” she stated. “I believe in the process of the Planning Commission and Council meetings with public input.”
“I do remember them being affordable but, that we couldn’t say ‘no’ to any housing projects because of the new state law. (SB330). I also remember them being mixed use,” Ogorchock added.
Questions for Former Mayor, Current Councilwomen, Torres-Walker Thought She Voted for Mixed-Use
Councilwomen Monica Wilson and Tamisha Torres-Walker, and former Mayor Lamar Thorpe were asked the following questions:
“Were you aware you were giving City staff the authority to approve each project without having to go through the public approval process?”
For the councilwoman they were asked the same questions as the current mayor and councilmen, “Are you willing to either require the five sites that don’t yet have administrative approval to go through the public process, require that they be mixed use instead of just housing or stop and rezone them? They were also asked, “Are you concerned about creating another policing problem area like the Sycamore neighborhood, by concentrating too many rental housing units in the same area at the Somersville Towne Center project?”
Wilson was specifically asked, were you aware of the 2004 effort to stop the apartments from being built on the property where your townhome is located? If so, why would you vote to approve not only an apartment complex there, but one that includes Extremely Low, Very Low and Low-Income units?
Only Torres-Walker responded with, “I am a supporter of affordable housing projects and I have considered the need for housing projects that include options for individuals that fall under the category of Extremely Low, Very Low and Low-Income.”
“When I voted I was under the impression that we were supporting mixed-use and mixed income projects,” she added.
The District 1 Councilwoman was again asked if she was aware that they had given City staff the authority to approve the projects without holding hearings for public input. But she did not respond prior to publication time.
Lakeview Center, Buchanan Crossing Projects on Feb. 24th Council Meeting Agenda
For the council meeting on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, two of the projects were on the agenda, as Items #5 and #6. They were Appeals of the December 18, 2025 Administrative Decision Regarding Lakeview Center Commercial Infill Housing Application and the November 13, 2025, Administrative Decision Regarding Buchanan Crossing Commercial Infill Housing Application. However, both items were requested to be postponed until the next council meeting on March 10, 2026, for Public Hearings.
Multiple efforts to reach Freitas, Wilson and Thorpe for their responses to the questions were unsuccessful. Please check back later for any updates to this report.
Positions on Police Oversight, Parks & Recreation and Sales Tax Oversight Commissions, Board of Administrative Appeals, General Plan Advisory Committee
Application deadline: Feb. 27 at 5:00 p.m.
By Allen D. Payton
The Antioch City Council is seeking residents to serve on the following three commissions and one board. Any interested resident is invited to apply for the following vacancies by 5:00 p.m., Friday, February 27, 2026.
Antioch Police Oversight Commission
One (1) Partial Term Vacancy, expiring November 2026
The Antioch Police Oversight Commission shall advise the City Council and Staff on the administration of the Antioch Police Department and public safety issues to ensure that the policies conform to national standards of constitutional policing. The Commission shall promote, encourage, and facilitate community participation and oversight by reviewing and recommending policies that is sensitive to the diverse needs of residents, aiming to inform the community of its rights and responsibilities on interactions with police officers.
Meetings are held at 6:00 pm on the 1st and 3rd Monday of every month, except in July and December, when meetings occur only once, inside the Council Chambers, at City Hall, except for two meetings per year will be held at locations within Antioch for the purpose of increasing community engagement.
The Commission serves in an advisory capacity to the City Council in matters pertaining to parks, recreation functions and policy, as well as engaging the community in programs and services. The Commission also surveys current and future recreation and park needs of the community to provide sound, year-round program for all ages.
Meetings are held at 7:00 pm on the 3rd Thursday of every month in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 200 H Street.
The Sales Tax Citizens’ Oversight Committee shall review the expenditures and report publicly how the funds are being used to address the City Council’s stated priorities of maintaining Antioch’s fiscal stability, police patrols, 911 emergency response, youth violence prevention programs; ensuring water quality/safety; repairing streets; cleaning up parks/illegal dumping; restoring youth afterschool/summer programs; and other essential services. 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 and 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.
Meetings are held at least twice annually at a location to be determined.
Three (3) Full Term Vacancies, expiring March 2030
One (1) Alternate Vacancy, Two-Year Term
The Board of Administrative Appeals hears appeals regarding administrative decisions by any official of the City dealing with Municipal Code Interpretations.
Meetings are held at 3:00 pm on the 1st Thursday of every month in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 200 H Street.
The City of Antioch encourages residents to become involved in their local community. One way to do so is to serve on various commissions, boards, and committees. Any interested resident is encouraged to apply.
Purpose: The Committee (GPAC) will serve as one of the primary channels for the community to provide input and make recommendations on the General Plan Update. Participation by members appointed to the GPAC is temporary; the roles and responsibilities of its members will terminate with City Council adoption of the General Plan.
Meetings will generally occur once per month, but there may be months when no meetings are held. The first meeting is anticipated to be held April 2026.
GPAC Requirements:
•Must be a resident of the City of Antioch.
•Members are subject to The Brown Act open meeting law.
•Commissioners are required to submit the Fair Political Practices Commission(FPPC) Form 700 (Statement of Economic Interests) upon assuming office, and everyyear thereafter.
•Commissioners are required to complete a 2-hour online AB1234 Ethics course withinone year of their appointment.
•Newly appointed and reappointed Members are required to take an Oath of Office administered by the City Clerk.
To apply visit Boards & Commissions page on the City’s websiteselect the link to download the application. The application will download onto your computer or mobile device and can be emailed directly to the City Clerk’s Office. You can also print and mail/drop off your application to the City Clerk’s Office at 200 H Street Antioch, CA 94509.
The City Council will vote for each appointment at a future council meeting.
Lori Asuncion was voted to be the new Antioch City Attorney on Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026. Photo: LinkedIn
Will be paid $288,000 salary per year, $513,028 in total compensation
By Allen D. Payton
After granting her request to postpone the matter during their last meeting, at which only three members were present, the Antioch City Council voted 5-0to hire former Stockton City Attorney Lori Asuncion as Antioch’s new City Attorney. The matter was placed on the agenda for the Jan. 27th meeting, but both Mayor Ron Bernal and District 4 Councilwoman Monica Wilson. Asuncion made a last-minute request to postpone the vote.
This time, both Bernal and Wilson, who arrived at 7:55 p.m., were there for the vote. But Asuncion was not in attendance.
Interim City Attorney Derek Cole introduced the item saying Asuncion is “an exceptional, very talented attorney with city attorney experience…who I’ve known for several years. She has a fantastic reputation.”
He also spoke about SB707 requiring the council to report out of Closed Session, “the compensation package of your key executive and key department heads. It has to be…put on the record in a public meeting.”
Cole then shared Asuncion will receive an annual salary of $288,000 or $24,000 per month, and benefits of $225,028 for total compensation of $513,028 per year.
It’s a 26.7% increase over the compensation she received in Stockton. According to Transparent California, in 2024, Asuncion earned Regular pay of $290,601, Other pay of $15,300 for Total pay of $305,901. In addition, she received $98,700 in benefits for a total compensation package of $404,601 per year.
No one from the council had any questions for Cole or made any comments, nor were there any public comments before the motion to hire Asuncion was made by Mayor Pro Tem and District 3 Councilman Don Freitas and seconded by Wilson. It passed unanimously.
It’s been 13 months since Thomas Lloyd Smith resigned the position on Jan. 17, 2025. Since then, Cole, of law firm Cole Huber, has served as Antioch’s Interim City Attorney on a contract basis. Asuncion was chosen following a statewide search, several closed session meetings with both the consultant, Recruiter Joe Gorton, from the Bob Hall & Associates recruiting firm, and candidates during the recruitment process.
According to a press release sent out by City PIO Jaden Baird immediately following the vote, “Ms. Asuncion brings more than 18 years of dedicated public service to Antioch, most recently serving as City Attorney for the City of Stockton, where she served as a trusted legal advisor on some of the City’s most complex and high-profile matters.
Ms. Asuncion began her tenure with the City of Stockton in 2007 as a Deputy City Attorney, was promoted to Assistant City Attorney in 2018, and appointed City Attorney in 2022. During her service, she played a critical role in shaping key city policies and ordinances, advancing strategic goals and priorities, leading sensitive investigations, and managing complex litigation. She brings deep expertise in land use law, Brown Act compliance, and litigation management.
Following an extensive and competitive recruitment process, the City Council selected Ms. Asuncion based on her depth of experience, leadership background, and demonstrated expertise in municipal law.
Mayor Bernal welcomed the appointment, stating, “With eighteen years of municipal law experience in the City of Stockton, City Attorney Asuncion brings proven leadership and the ability to navigate complex challenges. I am confident she will be a valuable asset as we continue moving Antioch forward.”
Cole expressed strong support for the appointment, stating, “I am excited that Lori Asuncion will be the next Antioch City Attorney. I’ve had the pleasure of working with Lori through our mutual involvement with the League of California Cities. Lori is widely respected in the City Attorney Community. She has nearly two decades of legal experience in a large city attorney office. She is well prepared to work with the City Council, City Administration, and Executive Team to move Antioch forward.”
Reflecting on her selection, Ms. Asuncion stated, “I am honored that the Mayor and Council chose me to serve the City of Antioch and contribute to the success, stability, and resilience of the community.”
Her leadership reflects a strong commitment to public service, transparency, staff support, and community improvement.
Ms. Asuncion has also been actively involved in professional legal organizations. She has served on the California League of Cities City Attorneys’ Department Nominating and Legal Advocacy Committee and has contributed as an editor to the League’s Municipal Law Handbook.
Born and raised in Stockton, Ms. Asuncion earned her Juris Doctor from the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law in 2005 and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from California State University, Stanislaus, awarded in 2002.
When asked, Baird responded, Antioch’s Human Resources Department has not yet shared Asuncion’s start date.
UPDATE: On Feb. 18th, Baird said, “Our Attorney’s start date is March 2nd.”
Hourly top step pay comparison among police agencies in Contra Costa County. Source: APOA
Include Dispatchers in public, social media campaign for new contract
“150 days out of contract and no relief in sight.” – APOA
APD Management also out of contract but working under previous one
So far, six Closed Session Conferences with Labor Negotiators held
Share Barbanica’s social media post regarding concerns about City spending more money on another homeless hotel
By Allen D. Payton
Ignoring the advice of City Manager Bessie Scott to Antioch Police Officers Association has continued their public campaign regarding the lack of a contract with the City since the end of August with an added complaint of the difference in pay with other local agencies. They’ve included Dispatchers’ pay in their list of complaints and with posts on their Facebook page and Instagram account as part of their campaign.
Antioch PD Among Lowest Top Step Hourly Pay in County
In a post on the organization’s Facebook page on Friday, Jan. 30, 2025, they show a chart of top step hourly pay for police officers for 17 agencies in Contra Costa County plus, BART Police. It shows Antioch PD has one of the lowest levels of pay. Their contract used to include a requirement that they be paid the second highest in the county, as Antioch is the second largest city by population. But now, 14 other police agencies offer a higher top step pay than Antioch which offers $67.56 per hour. Neighboring agencies pay more with Oakley PD at $69.93, Brentwood PD at $69.89 and Pittsburg at $69.69. San Ramon PD offers the highest top step pay in the county at $77.81 per hour.
APD Dispatchers are also out of contract. Source: APOA video screenshots
Antioch Dispatchers Also Affected
In a separate post on Saturday, January 31st, the APOA shared a video about Dispatchers’ pay and wrote, “The lack of a contract for the APOA is far more problematic than you may have thought. The pay gap extends to our members in dispatch as well! 150 days out of contract and no relief in sight.”
The video includes an audio narrative with subtitles which reads, “Every call for help in Antioch starts the same way. With a dispatcher answering the phone. But here’s the reality. Antioch police dispatchers are significantly underpaid compared to neighboring agencies.
“Dispatchers at the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office and Pittsburg Police earn nine thousand nine hundred dollars more per year than Antioch. Concord dispatchers make twenty-two thousand four hundred four dollars more. Pleasant Hill pays seventeen thousand eighty-eight dollars more. Richmond dispatchers earn twenty-six thousand six hundred seventy-six dollars more annually. Walnut Creek pays seventeen thousand nine hundred seventy-six dollars more. Brentwood pays twelve thousand five hundred sixty-four dollars more. And Martinez pays sixteen thousand forty-four dollars more than Antioch.
“These aren’t small differences. They’re life-changing pay gaps. And they come with real consequences. When experienced dispatchers can earn tens of thousands more by crossing city lines, recruitment suffers. Retention suffers.
“Antioch dispatchers are working understaffed and often work sixteen-hour shifts to cover the empty spots. That means fewer dispatchers, longer wait times, increased stress, and heavier workloads for those who stay.
“If Antioch wants to recruit and retain skilled dispatchers, pay must reflect the responsibility of the job. That means a meaningful contract with competitive salaries. Because when dispatchers leave, everyone in this city feels the impact.”
In addition, APOA has been posting more videos on their Facebook page and Instagram account as part of their campaign.
Antioch Police Management Also Out of Contract
Members of the Antioch Police Sworn Management Association were asked if they have a new contract with the City and if theirs also expired at the end of August. Captain Desmond Bittner responded, “It expired the same time as APOA’s. I had them (the City) add language saying the contract will continue until we worked out a new one.”
The former Comfort Inn now Antioch Inn & Suites will be used to house the homeless at $1.2 million per year. Photo courtesy of Mike Barbanica
Share Former Councilman Barbanica’s Post About City Expenditures for Homeless
The APOA also reposted comments by former Antioch Councilman Mike Barbanica about the City considering spending funds on another homeless hotel writing, “We want the public to see where their money is going!”
In a post on his “Community Member” Facebook page, Barbanica, a former Pittsburg Police Lieutenant, showed a photo of the now closed Comfort Inn, located on Mahogany Way at Highway 4 and Auto Center Drive and entered the discussion writing, “$1,200,000 potentially every year, local taxpayer funded…up to 15 years…
If other funding falls short, Antioch taxpayers are on the hook!
Transparency note: I didn’t author this from a single document. I reviewed staff reports, press reports, spoke with several people familiar with the proposal, and used AI to help compile a neutral, fact-based outline so the numbers could be seen clearly. The goal here is clarity, not advocacy.
Here’s the total City of Antioch financial commitment for the proposed Homekey+ housing project if it is approved and funded by the state:
1. One-time Local Match – The city would provide a one-time contribution of $750,000 toward acquisition and rehabilitation of the property when the Homekey+ award is received.
2. Annual Operating Subsidy – The City would commit up to $1.2 million per year to help operate the facility.
3. Duration of Operating Support – That annual subsidy is for five years, with two optional extensions of five years each (for a potential total of 15 years of subsidy) if the project continues to meet Homekey+ program guidelines.
4. Overall Total Estimate – Based on the staffing report and Council discussion, the total projected financial commitment over the long term is roughly $18 million–$19 million if you include the operating subsidies plus the one-time match (i.e., ~$1.2 M × 15 years = ~$18 M, plus the ~$750 K match).
Summary of Antioch’s Commitment if Homekey+ is Approved
Component Amount
One-time contribution (acquisition/rehabilitation) $750,000, Annual operating subsidy Up to $1.2 M per year
Duration of subsidy 5–15 years (with extensions), Approximate total over full life ~$18 M–$19 M
Important Notes
This commitment only takes effect if the state awards Homekey+ funding and the City moves forward with the project after award.
The operating subsidy requirements could be reduced if alternative funding sources or partners contribute support, but the report assumes the full amount will initially be covered by the City.
WHAT COULD THIS MEAN?
The $1.2 million per year is a CITY / local commitment, not state money.
Now the break down so there’s no ambiguity.
Who pays what in the Antioch Homekey+ project
State of California (Homekey / Homekey+)
Through California Department of Housing and Community Development:
Pays up-front capital costs: Property acquisition, Rehabilitation / conversion, This is a one-time grant, not ongoing funding,
The state does NOT commit to covering long-term operations.
City of Antioch (local funds)
From Antioch: One-time local match, $750,000 (city funds), Annual operating subsidy, Up to $1.2 million per year, Initially 5 years, With two optional 5-year extensions, Potential exposure: up to 15 years
This money comes from local sources: City General Fund, Measure funds / local housing allocations, Other city-controlled revenue (not guaranteed state funding), The staff reports are explicit that the City is responsible for covering operating shortfalls if other funding does not materialize.
What that means… The state helps buy and convert the building, The city commits to keeping it running, If other funding falls short, Antioch taxpayers are on the hook, That’s why council members and staff describe it as a long-term fiscal obligation, not just a grant.”
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Six Closed Session Conferences with Labor Negotiators to Discuss Contracts
To date, the City Council, City Manager Bess Scott and a representative from the City Attorney’s Office have held six Closed Session meetings entitled Conference with Labor Negotiators with representatives of the APOA and City employee groups to discuss their contracts. The first one was held August 12 followed by additional meetings on Aug. 26, Sept. 9, Oct. 14, 2025, and Jan. 13 and 27, 2026.
Questions for APOA, City Staff, CouncilGo Unanswered for Now
Questions were asked of APOA leadership, when did negotiations begin and who represented the organization.
Questions were also emailed on Saturday, January 31st, to City Manager Scott, Mayor Bernal, the four council members and the City Attorney’s Office staff. They were asked, “Why wait so long to begin negotiations when the contracts for at least the APOA and APD Management Association ended on August 31st? Is that usual practice? Why not start sooner? Why didn’t you have meetings before every regular meeting to get things worked out?”
They were also asked, “Besides the APOA and APD Management Association, have the contracts also expire for the other employee groups, including the Management Unit, Treatment Plant Employees’ Association, Operating Engineers Local Union No. 3 and Confidential Unit? If not, when do their contracts expire?”
Finally, the council and staff members were asked, “How long are the new contracts expected to last? One year, two, three or five years?”
The questions were resent to City staff and council members early Tuesday morning, Feb. 3, 2026. But no responses were received prior to publication time. Please check back later for any updates to this report.
Lori Asuncion’s request was granted by the three members of the Antioch City Council in attendance during their meeting Tuesday night, Jan. 27, 2026. Sources: LinkedIn profile photo (left) and YouTube video screenshot (right).
By Allen D. Payton
During last night’s Antioch City Council meeting, on Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2026, the three members in attendance voted to postpone the vote to hire Lori Asuncion as the new City Attorney. The former Stockton City Attorney, who resigned two weeks ago while facing possible termination, submitted a last-minute request to wait until the full council was in attendance. (See related article)
Both Mayor Ron Bernal, who was traveling to Washington, D.C. for the 94th Winter Meeting of the U.S. Conference of Mayors, and District 4 Councilwoman Monica Wilson, whose mother recently passed away, were absent from the meeting
After Mayor Pro Tem and District 3 Councilman Don Freitas, who was chairing the meeting, read the agenda item’s description, but before the council considered the matter, Assistant City Attorney Kevin Kundinger informed the members of the matter.
“Actually, with this item, I received a request from Ms. Asuncion through the City Attorney that this be continued to a date where the entire council was present. That was the request that I received approximately 40 minutes ago.”
“OK. We can do that. It might delay things,” said Freitas.
“It is just a request that I received,” Kundinger reiterated.
“What does council?” Freitas began to ask. But District 1 Councilwoman Tamisha Torres-Walker spoke over him asking, “Couldn’t we vote tonight and do a ceremonial vote when everybody is…?” Then cutting her off Freitas said, “No. I can see, I’m sure she wants five votes” as Torres-Walker laughed and said at the same time, “I know what she doin’. But I’m good with making a motion to continue it to the next council meeting.”
Accepting that as the motion, Freitas asked for a second which was provided by District 2 Councilman Louie Rocha. With no public comment or further council discussion on the item, the motion passed 3-0. (See the 2:41:10 minute mark of the Council meeting video)
The next council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 10th.
