City Council appoints HR Director as Acting City Manager

Several members of the public spoke in support of Bessie Scott

By Allen D. Payton

Following a three-hour long Closed Session meeting of the Antioch City Council on May 5, 2026, it was announced that City Manager Bessie M. Scott was on a paid leave of absence and the council appointed another staff member as Acting City Manager.

The closed-door meeting lasted about three hours during which they discussed Scott’s performance evaluation and a potential lawsuit against the City by an unnamed employee. (See related article)

Scott did not attend the open session prior to the council adjourning into closed session, nor did she attend that meeting.

During the open session, which began at 4:00 p.m., a variety of residents spoke, many on the assumption Scott was going to be fired.

Public Comments

Rivertown store owner and Downtown Antioch Association leader Debbie Blaisure said about Scott, “She gave the faith in the downtown businesses to do the job. I am hoping and praying she continues with this city. I wish all the businesses were here to talk on her behalf.”

Dr. Jamilia Land spoke next saying, “Some of what I’ve been hearing should disturb everyone in this room. It was under your watch that much of what happened in the APD occurred. To turn around and gaslight this woman, I’ve heard nothing but positive from people in the community.”

Antioch Police Oversight Commission (APOC) Vice Chairperson Devin Williams said, “This decision isn’t just about a person it’s about a pattern. It makes it difficult to move forward. Instead of working with her they want to get rid of her. We lose consistency. We lost time. We lose money. We lose the same money we say we don’t have. This sends a message. She hasn’t been here long enough to actually make a difference. This seems like the City of Antioch continues to self-sabotage. This stuff is exhausting.”

APOC Chairperson Porshe Taylor spoke next saying, “I’m not proud of the city. This person is being disclosed in Closed Session, yet without the public. This room is empty. This is disappointing.”

In her comments, Assistant City Clerk Christina Garcia announced her retirement concluding with, “When people stop listening it’s time to go.”

“I’ve been here for 23 1/2 years,” she said. “Why does the city manager evaluation have to be up here 10 times within a year? I don’t understand why this is happening, Ron. I thank you, City Manager Scott, for helping with the City Clerk’s Office. Let’s work together. Let’s move forward. It is time for me to retire. You didn’t push me out. It’s time to move on.”

Homeless advocate and resident Andrew Becker said, “I did rush down here with the short notice. He asked what is involved in a city employee performance review.” The special meeting agenda was issued Monday afternoon.

This reporter spoke during public comments and asked why the meeting was being held in the afternoon and suggested the council postpone it until next Tuesday at 6:00 p.m. to give the public time to provide input to the council, first.

Businessman and event promoter Ron Muhammad spoke last saying, “I’m a shareholder in this corporation called Antioch in the Bluerock district. The measuring stick on our elected officials should be deliverables. Closed Session should be based on input from your constituents. Check in with your constituents and represent them.”

City Attorney’s Announcements from Closed Session Actions

Following closed session, City Attorney Lori Asuncion reported out, “that Council voted 4-0 with Councilwoman (Tamisha) Torres-Walker abstaining, City Manager is on leave of absence effective Wednesday, May 6, 2026. Compensation will continue without disruption. Ana Cortez is appointed Acting City Manager in the city manager’s absence effective immediately.”

She further said about agenda item 2., regarding a potential lawsuit against the City by an unnamed employee believed to possibly be Scott, “there’s nothing to report out under that agenda item.”

According to a press release by City PIO Jaden Baird, Scott’s benefits will also “continue without disruption during this period.

“The City Council appointed Human Resources and Risk Management Director Ana Cortez to serve as Acting City Manager effective immediately during the City Manager’s absence.

“City operations and services will continue without disruption.

“As this matter pertains to a confidential personnel issue, the City is not at liberty to provide additional information at this time.”

Scott was hired in 2024 on a two-year contract and started in the position in early October of that year.

Following the city attorney’s announcement, due to the extended length of the closed session, District 2 Councilman Louie Rocha suggested postponing the scheduled special Budget Study Session meeting which was to begin at 5:30 p.m., until next Tuesday night. The council agreed with a 5-0 vote and the meeting was adjourned.

Deal with possible lawsuit by city employee during special meeting before another budget study session

Staff does not provide baseline budget to council as requested but shows annual deficits for this, next two years

By Allen D. Payton

CORRECTION: This reporter and members of the community misinterpreted the intent of the agenda items for today’s City Council Closed Session meeting. Because nothing was agendized to discipline or release a city employee, it was not possible for the Council to discuss terminating City Manager Scott.

During a special afternoon Closed Session meeting today, Tuesday, May 5, 2026, the Antioch City Council will discuss City Manager Bessie Scott’s performance evaluation, then deal with a potential lawsuit from an unnamed city employee and appoint an interim city manager. That means Scott could be placed on paid leave. That meeting begins at 4:00 p.m. It will be followed by another budget session at 5:30 p.m.

Scott started in October 2024 and just completed 19 months in her position out of her two-year contract. As previously reported, she was hired on a split, 3-2 City Council vote in August 2024. 

The fact that City staff did not provide “a baseline budget that represents only the required minimum municipal services that the City has to provide” for the 2026-27 Fiscal Year, as requested by the mayor, according to the staff report for the Budget Study Session, that may be one of the reasons for the Council’s actions.

The Closed Session agenda reads as follows:

1) PUBLIC EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE EVALUATION: CITY MANAGER.

This closed session is authorized pursuant to California Government Code section 54957(b)(1).

2) CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL- SIGNIFICANT EXPOSURE TO LITIGATION. The city is in receipt of facts and circumstances that might result in litigation against the City which are known to a potential plaintiff and that pertain to potential employment-related claims by the potential plaintiff against the City. This closed session is authorized pursuant to California Government Code sections 54956.9(d)(2) and 54956.9(e)(2). Number of cases: One.

3) PUBLIC EMPLOYEE APPOINTMENT: ACTING CITY MANAGER. This closed session is authorized pursuant to California Government Code section 54957.

The legal matter may be a possible lawsuit by Scott if she is being terminated for cause and the council doesn’t plan to pay her six months of severance included in her contract. But that is mere speculation as the agenda provides no other information to the public.

Mayor Ron Bernal and the four council members were asked why they’re holding a meeting to fire the city manager and hire an acting city manager at 4:00 p.m. when most people can’t attend. They were also asked why now when she only has six more months on her contract.

Only Freitas responded with, “They Mayor is responsible for setting the agenda. And, due to confidentiality I am legally prevented from discussing this matter with you.”

Additional efforts to reach Bernal and efforts to reach Scott were unsuccessful prior to publication time.

See Meeting agenda.

Budget Study Session – Includes Deficits for This, Following Two years

For the special Budget Study Session beginning at 5:30 p.m., City staff did not provided the Council with the requested baseline budget. The staff report for the one agenda item reads, “At the Special Meeting of April 21, 2026, the Mayor requested that staff provide a baseline budget that represents only the required minimum municipal services that the City has to provide; to then afford the City Council to layer upon that budget to address priorities. As stated by the City Manager and Finance Director, with only 9 weeks to go until the City is required to adopt a budget, this is an impossible exercise to complete in such a short time frame to ensure we have time to research legal mandates as well as do a thorough review of departmental expenditures for what ‘qualify’ as the bare minimum and what is considered to be beyond the minimum. Should Council want to pursue this budget process, it is recommended to start this in August for building the Fiscal Year 2027-28 budget and potential mid-year adjustment for Fiscal Year 2026-27.”

Furthermore, the staff report reads, “With the budget as presented this evening, Council will need to determine what the acceptable level of deficit they are willing to proceed with and potentially direct specific cuts to incorporate if the Council is not willing to adopt this budget.”

Included in the proposed budget are the adjustments the Council proposed at their meeting on April 28th which amount to almost $2.4 million in cuts, plus, the $5 million transfer from the Budget Stabilization Fund.

Even with those cuts and an annual transfer of $5 million from the Budget Stabilization Fund, the General Fund Budget Summary shows an ending deficit for this year of $4.7 million, proposed for the 2026-27 Fiscal Year of $6.5 million and projected for the 2027-27 Fiscal Year of $13.4 million.

See Budget Study Session agenda.

Meeting Details

The Closed Session will begin and the Budget Study Session will be held in the Council Chambers at City Hall located at 200 H Street in Antioch’s historic, downtown Rivertown. They can also be viewed via livestream on the City’s website, on Comcast Cable Channel 24 or AT&T U-verse Channel 99 and a recording posted later on the City’s YouTube Channel. The public can speak before the Closed Session to give input prior to the council adjourning to the closed door meeting.

Oversight Committee not holding Council accountable to 80-10-10 split

By Allen D. Payton

The City of Antioch is supposed to be spending the funds from Measure W’s one-cent sales tax measure, passed by the voters in November 2018, on an 80-10-10 split, with 80% for maintaining public safety, 10% for youth services and the remaining 10% to support quality of life, and fiscal stability and accountability. However, the 2023-24 budget spent only 60% of Measure W funds on police, last year’s budget increased the amount to 65.4% and the current fiscal year’s City budget allocated 70%. Plus, last year’s budget only allocated 4.6% to Youth Network Services.

Funds in Fiscal Year 2024-25 instead were spent on Code Enforcement and homeless services, as well as street lighting and landscaping.

According to the adopted 2025-26 City Budget, “The adopted fiscal year 2023-25 budget allocated 60% of funds to the Police Department, 20% to Quality of Life and 20% to Youth. For fiscal year 2025-26, City Council is allocating 70% to the Police Department, 15% to Quality of Life and 15% to Youth” ignoring the original intent of the council that voted to place the measure on the ballot.

Sales Tax Citizens’ Oversight Committee Report

According to the Sales Tax Citizens’ Oversight Committee Fiscal Year 2024-25 Annual Report on Measure W  provided to the City Council on March 24, 2026 (relegated to the Consent  Calendar under agenda item 5.N.), “In FY24, the City received $20,160,685 in Measure W revenue and allocated funds at 60% Police, 20% Quality of Life, and 20% Youth.”

For the fiscal year that ended June 30, 2025, “The largest share of Measure W funds—65.4%, or $13,077,475—was directed to the Antioch Police Department. These funds supported a portion of police personnel costs ($40,376,709 in total department personnel expenditures) and services and supplies ($11,436,353). Measure W revenue represents approximately 24.5% of the Police Department’s total FY25 expenditures of $53,413,941, sustaining patrol operations, 911 response capacity, and related public safety services.”

Also, according to the report, the other Measure W revenues were spent in FY 2024-25 in order of greatest amount to least, as follows:

• Recreation 15.4%;
• Code Enforcement 8.6%;
• Youth Network Services 4.6%;
• Quality of Life 4.4%; and
• Landscape Enhancements 1.6%

2024-25 Measure W Expenditure Report Details

Under section 3 entitled, “Alignment with City Council Stated Priorities” the report offers details for each of those expenditure categories, but does not identify which council stated the priorities nor cite when that occurred. The report reads as follows:

• Youth Violence Prevention and Community Safety

The Public Safety and Community Resources (PSCR) Department received $878,748 (100% Measure W funded) for Quality of Life programs. Within the department’s broader operation, the Violence Intervention and Prevention unit had a budget of $281,094 with $137,814 expended, during the fiscal year while the Housing and Homelessness unit budgeted $351,575 and expended $207,645. Community Engagement budgeted $27,697 with $27,629 expended. These programs directly address community safety, violence intervention, and quality of life for Antioch residents.

• Youth Afterschool and Summer Programs

A combined total of $3,998,811 in Measure W funds supported youth-focused programs. Youth Network Services received $919,813 (100% Measure W funded) for personnel ($477,538) and services and supplies ($442,275). Recreation received $3,078,998, representing 46.7% of the department’s total expenditures. Recreation’s programs include youth afterschool activities, summer programming, and community recreation services.

• Code Enforcement and Community Cleanup

Code Enforcement received $1,714,021 in Measure W funds, constituting 81.6% of the division’s total expenditures. The division’s work addresses illegal dumping, nuisance abatement, and property maintenance standards—directly supporting the Council’s priorities of cleaning up parks and combating blight. Personnel costs totaled $1,785,197, with services and supplies at $314,916.

• Landscape Enhancements

A total of $325,000 (100% Measure W funded) was transferred to the Lighting and Landscape Districts for maintenance and enhancements across the city’s public landscaped areas, contributing to park and neighborhood beautification.

History of Measure W

As previously reported, during their meeting on Tuesday, July 24, 2018, the Antioch City Council voted 5-0 to place a ballot measure that would extend and double the transaction and use tax, or sales tax, permanently from the half-cent sales tax of Measure C, passed in 2013, to one cent. (See related article)

The council members discussed the draft version of the proposed one-cent sales tax measure. It allocated 60% of revenue for the maintenance of public safety, 20% for youth services, and the remaining 20% for supporting quality of life and fiscal stability and accountability.

But during the meeting the council discussed changing these amounts from percentages of 60-20-20 to an 80-10-10 allocation had the support of three council members. That split was advocated for by both Councilwoman Lori Ogorchock, who included it in her motion which was seconded by Councilman Tony Tiscareno, and Mayor Sean Wright during his comments.  

20-Year Sunset Clause, Public Oversight Added

Then during a special meeting on August 7, 20218, the Council on a 3-2 split vote, approved adding a 20-year sunset clause and including language to continue the Citizens Sales Tax Oversight Committee to the measure with then-Mayor Pro Tem Lamar Thorpe and Councilwoman Monica Wilson voting against. Placing the measure on the ballot required a two-thirds vote of the council, or favorable votes by four of the five councilmembers.

The council held another meeting two days later on August 9th at which the two who opposed it switched course. They joined the other three councilmembers for a unanimous, 5-0 vote to included both the 20-year sunset clause and citizens oversight language in the ballot measure.

Council Meeting Minutes on Measure W Votes

According to the minutes of the council meeting on July 24, 2018, the original motion is reported as follows:

“Councilmember Ogorchock moved to 1) Adopt the resolution of the City Council of the City of Antioch Calling for a Municipal Election on November 6, 2018 to Request City Voters Extend and increase the City’s Transaction and Use Tax from One-Half Cent to One Cent to Provide for Public Safety and 911 Service, Support Youth, and Maintain Other Quality of Life Services; and, 2) Enact an Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Antioch Submitting a Proposition to The Voters of the City of Antioch to Amend Article 4 of Chapter 5 of Title 3 of the Antioch Municipal Code to Increase the City’s Transactions and Use Tax from a Half Cent to One Cent and to Impose This Tax Until Repealed by the Voters. 3) Maintain Public Safety target for Antioch Police Department at 80 percent, support youth services 10 percent, support quality of life/fiscal stability and accountability at 10 percent.

Councilmember Tiscareno seconded the motion”

In addition, the minutes read, “Mayor Wright…noted that he would support 80 percent of the tax being allocated to public safety.”

However, following input from the city attorney and city clerk, the motion adopted by the council did not include specific allocation figures. According to the meeting’s minutes for the item: “Following discussion, Councilmember Ogorchock amended her motion. Councilmember Tiscareno agreed to second the amended motion, which was approved as follows:

“On motion by Councilmember Ogorchock, seconded by Councilmember Tiscareno, the City Council unanimously 1) Adopted a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Antioch Calling for a Municipal Election on November 6, 2018 to Request City Voters Extend and Increase the City’s Transaction and Use Tax from One-Half Cent to One Cent to Provide for Public Safety and 911 Service, Support Youth, and Maintain “Other Quality of Life Services; and 2) Enacted an Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Antioch Submitting a Measure to The Voters of the City of Antioch to Amend Article 4 of Chapter 5 of Title 3 of the Antioch Municipal Code to Increase the City’s Transactions and Use Tax from a Half Cent to One Cent and to Impose This Tax Until Repealed by the Voters. With the following changes:

• Amending the Ordinance under the ‘Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved’ to read: ‘that the People of Antioch do ordain as follows:’
• Striking the word ‘Proposition’ from the Ordinance and replacing it with ‘Measure’.”

Again, the additional clauses adding a 20-year sunset and citizen oversight to the measure were adopted at later meetings in 2018 before the measure’s final language was placed on the ballot.

Measure W Ballot Language

The final ballot language included in the measure which passed with 66.11% of the vote but only needed a simple, 50% plus, one vote was as follows: Antioch’s Quality of Life Measure. To maintain 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; other essential services; shall the measure be adopted approving an ordinance to renew the sales tax at the one-cent rate, raising approximately $14,000,000 annually,  expiring in twenty years, with mandatory annual independent financial audits, and independent citizens oversight?

Although the first motion to place Measure W on the ballot, which had majority council support, included the 80-10-10 split, it is not part of the actual ballot language, meaning the city council is not bound by those amounts and can spend the funds in any way they deem necessary.

Yes on W Campaign Message

Yet, that’s how the measure was sold to the voters and how Antioch residents expect the funds to be spent.

Since the measure passed, the new Department of Public Safety and Community Resources was formed, with attempts by some council members to redefine and expand the meaning of “public safety” in Antioch to include more than just police services. Yet, the campaign in support of Measure W was very specific.

In a letter to the editor on Oct. 30, 2018, then-Mayor Wright wrote, “Measure W gives us a choice to increase our financial ability to make our community safer, create more activities for our youth after school and to improve our quality of life.”

Plus, in a Yes on W campaign ad run on page two of the Antioch Herald October 2018 edition, under “The Whys on W” headline it read, “Maintaining 911 police response and number of officers patrolling the streets.” At the time, there were 97 sworn officers on the Antioch Police force.

That was in spite of the commitment by the city council of hiring 22 more police “immediately” from the funds generated by Measure C, the half-cent sales tax precursor to Measure W, which passed in 2013 when there were 90 sworn officers on the force.

The ad also offered the other Whys, including, “Maintaining quality of life and financial stability; Ensuring water quality and safety; Cleaning up illegal dumping; and Restoring after school and summer programs for youth.”

Committee’s Incorrect Claims

While the Oversight Committee’s report claims, “Expenditures across all funded departments were within budgeted amounts for FY25, demonstrating sound fiscal management of Measure W resources,” it’s clear the revenues have been not been appropriately allocated. In fact, past and current councils have been robbing Peter to pay Paul, as the old saying goes, which is what those who opposed the measure were afraid of.

Furthermore, the committee concluded its report claiming, “Measure W revenues for FY25 were expended in a manner consistent with the City Council’s stated priorities,” they’re ignoring the fact the council majority at the time they voted to place the measure on the ballot supported the 80-10-10 allocation split. So, even if the city council has since then, or in 2024 before adopting the FY 2024-25 budget, voted to change the allocation split of Measure W revenues, the funds were not “expended in a manner consistent with the City Council’s stated priorities” and are definitely out of alignment with the original intent.

Committee Needs to Represent and Advocate for Original Intent of the Council, Will of the Voters

Every year, the Oversight Committee’s report should include the city council’s original intent of allocating the revenue from Measure W on an 80-10-10 split and remind the current council members and public of that fact. Simply reporting how the council and City spent the funds based on information provided by City staff isn’t good enough. They need to hold the current council members accountable and advocate on behalf of the voters and residents of Antioch that they fulfill that intent. Otherwise, what’s the point of having an oversight committee? The members need to remember that although they were appointed to the committee by the city council, they’re not there to please the council but to represent the will of the people. Hopefully, the five new members who are expected to soon be appointed will.

Council Needs to Return to Original Intent of Measure W Revenue Allocation

As the city council works to finalize the Fiscal Year 2026-27 budget they need to be reminded of the original intent of the allocation of Measure W revenues and increase the amount being spent on police to 80%. While it’s good the council has expressed support for increasing the total number of sworn officers on the Antioch Police force, the allocation of the correct percentage of Measure W funds should be a key part of that. The good news is the projected revenue from Measure W for the next fiscal year is expected to increase by almost $120,000 to a little over $20.1 million. So, that will help some and it makes the math simple: $16.08 million to police, $2.01 million to youth services and $2.01 million to quality of life budget items. It all comes down to priorities.

Will focus on economic growth, public safety, community investment & partnerships, fiscal accountability

Hoping third times’ a charm

By Sandra White for City Council campaign

Sandra White, human resources executive, current president of the Antioch Rotary Club and former Antioch Police Crime Prevention Commission Chair, announced her candidacy for Antioch City Council, District 4 during a campaign kick-off on April 18.

As a resident of Antioch, White has seen firsthand the challenges facing local families, small businesses, and public safety resources, and is committed to delivering practical, results-driven solutions.

She also currently serves as a Standby City Council Member for Mayor Ron Bernal. Her volunteer endeavors included serving on the Antioch Unified School District Advisory Board and previously the Contra Costa County Community Corrections Partnership Community Advisory Board, which focused on re-entry programs for formerly incarcerated individuals.

This will be her third attempt at replacing incumbent Monica Wilson, now serving in her fourth term on the council since first being elected in 2012, but who has yet to announce for re-election in November. White ran in both 2020 for the two-year term and 2022 for the current four-year term.

White brings extensive experience in business operations, workforce development and organizational leadership, with a campaign focused on economic growth, public safety and strengthening community investment and partnerships, and fiscal accountability.

“Antioch is at a critical turning point,” said White. “We have an opportunity to build a safer, stronger and more economically vibrant city. I’m running to bring accountable leadership, common-sense solutions and a stronger, safer future for our community.”

White works as Vice President of Human Resources for a multi-state organization, Center for Social Dynamics, providing autism services to children, where she has led initiatives focused on workforce growth, operational efficiency, and building high-performing teams. According to her bio on the organization’s website, “She loves volunteering in her community and racking up airline mileages. Sandra earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from California State University, East Bay, and a Master of Associate degree in Counseling Psychology from John F. Kennedy University.”

Her professional experience is complemented by a strong record of community involvement in Antioch, including efforts supporting public safety, education, and youth development.

White’s Campaign Priorities Include:

• Economic Development: Attract businesses, support small businesses, empower entrepreneurs, and create sustainable local jobs. Strengthen City leadership by hiring department heads and staff with proven economic development experience and measurable results.

• Public Safety: Support full police staffing, reduce response times, and maintain safe neighborhoods and thriving business districts.

• Community Investment & Partnerships: Expand youth programs, strengthen community services, and improve overall quality of life for Antioch residents.

• Fiscal Accountability: Ensure responsible budgeting, transparency and long-term financial stability while protecting taxpayer dollars.

“We cannot spend more than we bring in,” White added. “Antioch needs disciplined financial leadership, transparency and a high-performing team focused on delivering long-term economic success.”

White’s campaign will focus on engaging residents, listening to community concerns, and building practical solutions that reflect the needs of District 4 and the broader Antioch community.

“This campaign is about bringing people together, listening to our community, and making sure every voice in Antioch is heard.”

Residents interested in learning more, volunteering, or supporting the campaign are encouraged to contact Sandra White at sandra.white4antioch@gmail.com or by calling (510) 303-5880, and follow-on social media at Facebook: Sandra White for Antioch, on Instagram: @sandrawhiteforantioch and TikTok: sandrawhiteforantioch.

Her website will be live, soon.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Plus, this year’s National Night Out and Sister City activities; but no mention of Holiday Delites Celebration

By Allen D. Payton

During their special meeting budget workshop on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, the Antioch City Council directed staff to keep funding for four community events and activities. They include this year’s Juneteenth celebration, the July 4th celebration on the nation’s 250th Independence Day and the National Night Out event. Also, the council protected funding for this year’s Sister City activities with Chichibu, Japan.

While reviewing a list of Deficit Reduction Proposals from city staff, Council postponed decisions for several of the items asking for more information from staff, first. Those are expected at a Budget Session before next Tuesday’s regular Council meeting.

“Since we’re hosting, this year, I’ll say ‘no’,” Mayor Pro Tem and District 3 Councilman Don Freitas said to the recommendation to “Pause Sister City Activities.” The other three council members and Mayor Ron Bernal agreed.

Following are the costs to the City’s General Fund budget for the four items:

• Juneteenth – $54,606, which includes vendors, supplies and police staffing;
• July 4th – $157,586, which includes fireworks, vendors, supplies and police staffing;
• National Night Out – $3,842 for police overtime; and
• Sister City activities – $15,000

City Finance Director Dawn Merchant asked the council members to confirm they were agreeing to only fund the three events, plus, Sister City activities, they each responded, “Yes.”

However, none of the council members or staff mentioned the annual Holiday Delites Celebration in December which wasn’t on the list for cutting. A question asking about funding for that event was sent to council members and staff.

UPDATE: Later, Bernal responded, “Forgot about that one. I’m sure we can add it when we do our next study session.”

Proposed budget cuts include cancelling annual July 4th celebration during nation’s 250th Independence Day

By Allen D. Payton

The Antioch City Council will hold a Special Meeting Tuesday, April 21, 2026, with Study Sessions on the Budget for Fiscal Years 2026-2027 and the Five-Year Capital Improvement Program for 2026-31.

Budget Study Session

The Council will discuss follow-up items from their meeting on March 24, 2026, including Position Vacancies, Consultant Services Contracts, Fiscal Year 2027 Fleet Replacements, American Rescue Plan (“ARPA”) funds remaining budgets, Budget Deficit Reduction Proposals totaling $5,360,641.

After transferring in $5 million from the Budget Stabilization Fund and making the proposed cuts, the City will end the 2027 Fiscal Year on June 30, 2027, with a $2,884,167 deficit.

One line item in the proposed budget cuts is to Cancel the 4th of July event. But it’s not clear if that is for this year during the nation’s 250th Independence Day celebration or for July 4th, 2027.

UPDATE: In response to questions for city council members and staff, Finance Director Dawn Merchant said, “This would be for this July. Although we pay for a lot of the expense to vendors in June, for accounting purposes, this is recorded as a ‘prepaid expense’ at June 30th and then booked as an expense in July 2026 since the actual event is in July. I hope this clarifies for you.”

Capital Improvement Program Study Session

According to the City staff report for the agenda item, the $74,359,000 Capital Improvements Budget for Revised Fiscal Year 2025/26 and $29,125,000 Capital Improvements Budget for Fiscal Year 2026/27 will be included in the City’s operating budget. Projects in the outlying years of the 5 Year Capital Improvement Program (CIP) 2026-2031 are for planning purposes and may be incorporated into future budgets.

View the entire agenda packet.

The Council meeting begins at 5:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 200 H Street in Antioch’s historic, downtown Rivertown. The meeting can also be viewed via livestream on the City’s website.

Plus, two alternates

By Jaden Baird, PIO, City of Antioch

The Antioch City Council approved appointments to the General Plan Advisory Committee and the Antioch Police Oversight Commission (APOC) at its April 14, 2026, meeting.

General Plan Advisory Committee (GPAC)

At-Large Appointments:

• James Becker, the Antioch Chamber of Commerce Chair and non-profit CEO;
• Edgar Alejandro Martinez, a Senior Practice Support Advisor for Hills Physicians Medical Group/UC Berkeley/CSU East Bay;
• Sean McCauley, a local commercial building and business owner;
• Redonha Means, an HR Business Partner for Kaiser Permanente; and
• Gerald Glenn “J.R.” Wilson, Jr., Founder of Delta Veterans Group.

Alternates:

• Desiree Coronado, a volunteer with Team Jesus Ministries; and
• Veiongo Uesi, a Corporate Security Investigator Analyst for BMO and University of Pheonix.

A total of 16 residents applied for the At-Large Member appointments. The GPAC will play a key role in shaping Antioch’s long-term vision by providing input on the City’s General Plan update. Learn more, here: Antioch General Plan

Antioch Police Oversight Commission (APOC) – Partial Term Appointment:

• Manuel L. “Manny” Soliz, Jr., a Wealth Advisor with Thrivent and a former Antioch Mayor Pro Tem and Councilman.

The Commission provides independent oversight of the Antioch Police Department, helping promote transparency and accountability. Learn more, here: Antioch Police Oversight Commission.

Congratulations to all appointees and thank you for your commitment to serving the Antioch community!

Read more about each appointee in a related article.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Including Lakeview Center near Golf Course Road

Will discuss staff contracts expired since last year, gas pipeline lawsuit

Make appointments to new General Plan Advisory Committee

By Allen D. Payton

During their meeting on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, the Antioch City Council will hold public hearings to consider approving conduit financing bonds for three of the 10 low-income apartment projects planned throughout the city. The council will also consider joining a joint powers authority for Green Stormwater Infrastructure, spending $500,000 for violence prevention services and $1.6 million for residential street resurfacing.

The council will also vote to appoint one member to the Antioch Police Oversight Commission for a partial-term vacancy and seven members and two alternates to the new General Plan Advisory Committee.

At the beginning of the regular meeting, the Council will hear two presentations, one on the Coordinated Outreach Referral and Engagement (CORE) Semi Annual Report on Contra Costa Health’s Health, Housing & Homeless (H3) Services in Antioch. The other will be the SeeClickFix 311 CRM Organizational Assessment Presentation.

Before the regular meeting at 7:00 p.m., during a Closed Session meeting beginning at 5:30 p.m., the council members will meet with representatives of the various city staff bargaining units on their contracts that expired last year. The City’s representative will be City Finance Director Dawn Merchant in the capacity of Acting City Manager in place of City Manager Bessie Scott who is on vacation. (See related articles here and here)

Will Discuss Two Lawsuits

The council will also discuss two lawsuits including an ongoing dispute with the California Resources Pipeline Corporation which owns the gas pipeline that runs through the city. It’s listed as Contra Costa Superior Court Case No. MSN21-2354.

After following the lead of the Brentwood City Council, in September 2021, the Antioch City Council voted 2-3 against renewing the franchise agreement for the low-pressure, natural gas pipeline that runs beneath the two communities. That resulted in it being closed, the City foregoing the annual franchise fee of about $17,000 and the lawsuit. The 35-mile long, 12-inch pipe previously carried 1.8 million cubic feet of natural gas daily which is enough to supply about 9,000 homes. The intent by the council majority of Councilwoman Monica Wilson and Tamisha Torres-Walker, and then-Mayor Lamar Hernández-Thorpe, was to protect the community from an explosion similar to what occurred in San Bruno in 2011 and save the environment from greenhouse gas emissions. However, according to a company spokesman, “The pressures are 50% below the allowable pressures.” Furthermore, the result was an increase in emissions and a much dirtier product being used by the refineries, from which Antioch is downwind. (See related article)

The second lawsuit to be discussed is against the City, water park and school district, was brought by Jayson Robinson, a former student with a heart condition who almost drowned in 2019. It’s listed as Contra Costa Superior Court Case No.C20-02420. (See related article)

Public Financing for Extremely Low, Very Low & Low-Income Apartment Projects

Under agenda items, 6., 7. and 8., the Council will conduct public hearings on financing for three proposed extremely low, very low and low-income housing projects, part of the 10 properties the City Council rezoned to a Commercial Infill Housing (CIH) Overlay Districts in 2022. While, as a result, no Planning Commission or Council decisions with public input are required to approve the projects, the public does have the opportunity to provide input on the City assisting with financing.

According to the staff reports for each item, under the Tax Equity Fiscal Responsibility Act of 1982 (TEFRA), the Council is being asked to approve the issuance of one or more series of revenue bonds by the California Municipal Finance Authority (CMFA) to provide for the financing or refinancing of the acquisition, construction, improvement and equipping of the projects.

Under agenda item 6., the bonds, not to exceed $50,000,000, will benefit Hillcrest Antioch LP for the 165-unit multi-family housing project on the 4.9-acre parcel known as Hillcrest Summit Apartments. It is planned for vacant land located behind the 76 Service Station and 7-Eleven bordered by Shaddick Drive, Harris Drive, E. Tregallas Road and Hillcrest Avenue.

Under item 7., the bonds, not to exceed $43,000,000, will benefit Standard Buchanan Venture LP for the 195-unit Buchanan Crossings CIH project, a multifamily rental housing project on 5.4 acres located at 3210 Buchanan Road next to the Grocery Outlet store.

Finally, under item 8., the bonds, not to exceed $50,000,000, will benefit Standard Lone Tree Venture LP, by Los Angeles-based Standard Communities, for the 233-unit Lakeview Center CIH, multifamily rental housing project. It will be located on 5.3 acres next to the CVS store on the southwest side of Lone Tree Way between Golf Course Road and James Donlon Blvd.

Green Stormwater Infrastructure Projects JPA

Under Consent Calendar agenda item 5.L, the Council will consider joining the Contra Costa County Regional Alternative Compliance (RAC) Joint Powers Authority (JPA) to establish one or more community facilities districts (CFDs), for Off-Site Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI) Projects.

The RAC would be empowered to “accept applications from property owners, annex properties to the CFD, and levy special taxes to finance on-going maintenance costs.”

According to the City staff report, the RAC System is an innovative, regionally supported approach to fulfilling state-mandated stormwater treatment obligations. Developed through a partnership between the Contra Costa Clean Water Program, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and the San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board, the RAC System provides an off-site, alternate compliance mechanism for the GSI that would normally be required on site. The RAC System creates a countywide marketplace that allows both public agencies and private developers to purchase ‘compliance units’ generated by certified Off-Site GSI projects constructed elsewhere in the county. These units represent an equivalent amount of stormwater treatment required for regulatory compliance.

$500,000 for Violence Prevention Services

Under the Consent Calendar items 5.M and 5.N, the Council will also consider approving two contracts totaling $500,000 from the City’s CalVIP-5 grant for violence prevention training over the period of April 1, 2026, through June 30, 2029. The first agreement is with Advance Peace to provide technical assistance and training evaluation services in the amount of $360,000. The second agreement is with Evident Change to provide evaluation services in the amount of $140,000.

According to the City staff reports by Public Safety & Community Resources Director Monserrat Cabral, “On March 10, 2026, the City Council approved acceptance of CalVIP-5 funding to support and expand the City’s violence intervention infrastructure.”

The Advance Peace website describes the organization as, “Transforming Public Safety Through Leadership Development, Healing-Centered Support, Violence Reduction Fellowships and Training” and “is dedicated to ending cyclical and retaliatory gun violence in American urban neighborhoods.”

According to Cabral’s report for item 5.M, “The City’s program model includes Neighborhood Change Agents delivering intensive street outreach, case management, and wraparound services; workforce development and stabilization supports; and structured, incentive-based interventions designed to drive sustained behavioral change. This model is grounded in nationally recognized best practices and is aligned with the Advance Peace Peacemaker Fellowship model—an evidence-informed strategy with demonstrated outcomes in reducing gun violence in high-impact communities.”

According to the organization’s website, “Evident Change, formerly the National Council on Crime & Delinquency and the Children’s Research Center, is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that uses data and research to improve our social systems,” whose “work began in 1907” as “a volunteer organization made up of probation and parole workers who wanted to keep children out of the adult system.” Since then, they expanded their scope “to improving adult justice and public safety…the child welfare system” and “the adult protective services system.”

According to the Cabral’s report for item 5.N, “Evident Change has served as the City’s evaluation partner under CalVIP-4, providing critical support in program implementation tracking, participant outcome analysis, trend identification, and compliance with California Board of State and Community Corrections (BSCC) reporting requirements. Through this work, Evident Change has developed extensive knowledge of the City’s program model, data systems, performance measures, and community context.”

Police Oversight Commission Appointment

Under item 9 the council will also appoint one member to the Antioch Police Oversight Commission for a partial-term vacancy with the term ending November 2026.

Three residents have applied for the position include Jim Thor, a former Digital Security Engineer; Manuel “Manny” Soliz, Jr., a Wealth Advisor with Thrivent and a former Antioch Mayor Pro Tem and Councilman; and Nicholas Cannon, retired from a 40-year career in law enforcement and security, and a former member and chairman of the Antioch Police and Crime Prevention Commission.

Appointments to New General Plan Committee

Under item 10, the council will appoint six members and two alternates to the new General Plan Advisory Committee (GPAC). According to the City staff report, “The GPAC is an advisory body that provides a mechanism for the General Plan project team (City staff and consultants) to receive input regarding the effectiveness of the current General Plan, methods to address issues of concern to the City and the Antioch community, and an opportunity for the public to provide input on the update to the General Plan. A series of GPAC meetings is anticipated throughout the General Plan Update process to address potential land use, economic development, infrastructure, circulation, and other considerations to develop the Land Use Map and the goals and policies for each topic to be addressed in the General Plan Update.

The committee will consist of two City Council Members, two Planning Commission Members; five At-Large Members of the general public and two At-Large Alternate Members of the general public.

At the March 10, 2026, City Council Meeting the Council voted 4-0, with one Councilmember absent, to approve the appointments of Mayor Ron Bernal and Mayor Pro Tem and District 3 Councilman Don Freitas to the GPAC.

At the February 4, 2026, Planning Commission Meeting they voted 4-0, with two Commissioners absent, to forward their recommendation of Commissioners Kevin Riley and Cortney Jones to Mayor Bernal for consideration to serve on the GPAC. He is nominating Commissioner both to fill the two Planning Commissioner seats.

A total of 16 residents have applied for the At-Large Member appointments including James Becker, the Antioch Chamber of Commerce Chair and non-profit CEO; Gerald “J.R.” Wilson, Founder of Delta Veterans Group; Melissa Case, a local Realtor and regular council meeting attendee and public comments speaker; and Sean McCauley, a local commercial building and business owner.

The other 12 applicants include:

• Alex Aorga, a retired IT Project Manager;
• Sally Ann Bergquist, Vice President Managing Agent for Unlimited Resources, LLC dba Berggie Trucking & Movers and dba Jacobson Transfer & Piano Movers & Storage;
• Desiree Coronado, a volunteer with Team Jesus Ministries;
• Lemuel def Castillo, a Lead Civil Engineer for the Federal Aviation Administration;
• Buffie Lafayette, Founder and Pastor of True Free Love Ministries who moved to Antioch last June;
• Nicola “Nikki” Lopez, CEO of Caring Haven;
• Edgar Alejandro Martinez, a Senior Practice Support Advisor for Hills Physicians Medical Group/UC Berkeley/CSU East Bay;
• Redonha Means, an HR Business Partner for Kaiser Permanente;
• Salvadore Morales, an Economic Development Planner for the Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development;
• Erika Raulston, a Community Navigator for GEO Reentry Services DRC (Day Reporting Centers);
• Tom Tafolla, Corporate Advisor and Legal Affairs Officer of Abacus Semiconductor Corporation and former Professor of Business & Technology Administration; and
• Veiongo Uesi, a Corporate Security Investigator Analyst for BMO and University of Pheonix.

Learn more about the General Plan Update, here: Antioch General Plan

$1.6 Million for Street Micro-surfacing

Under agenda item 11, the Council will consider approving $1.6 million for the Antioch Cape Seal Project 2026. According to the City staff report, the project consists of the placement of a half-inch Polymer Modified Asphalt Rubber Chip Seal with an application of micro-surfacing on top to various residential streets. They include:

Staff recommends that the contract be awarded to the lowest, responsive and responsible bidder, American Pavement Systems, Inc. of Modesto, CA in the amount of $1,565,550.58, with a 5% contingency in the amount of $78,277.53 for a total contract amount of $1,643,828.11.

Funds to pay for the project include $1,000,000 from the Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Account (RMRA). The approval of this resolution will amend the Fiscal Year 2025/26 Capital Improvement Budget by adding $1,000,000 of RMRA funds for a total of $2,000,000 of RMRA funds. There is an additional $308,053 of Contra Costa County Measure J half-cent sales tax for transportation funds for a total budget of $2,308,053 for the project.

Meeting Details

The beginning of the Closed Session and the regular Council meeting 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.

See the entire agenda packet.