City will have to move quickly to qualify for third round of state funding

By Allen D. Payton

Following their closed session that began at 6:30 p.m., Mayor Lamar Thorpe called the regular Antioch City Council meeting to order at 7:25 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2023. City Attorney Thomas L. Smith reported out from the closed session regarding the three lawsuits against the City in Contra Costa Superior Court saying, “no reportable action on that item”. Regarding the second item of his performance evaluation Smith said, “the city council gave direction to the city attorney”.

The council approved a proclamation in memory of Ronald A. Grant who was a member of the City’s Board of Administrative Appeals and passed away on December 11, 2022. The proclamation was presented to Grant’s family and fellow members of the Board of Administrative Appeals. Ronald A Grant proclamation 021423

The council also honored February as Black History Month with a proclamation. (See related article).

Homekey Transitional Housing Project & Program Presentation

A presentation on the state’s Homekey program was provided by Dignity Moves. Part of the presentation included a proposed 50 units for Phase 1 and an additional 75-100 units in Phase 2 on the City-owned 5-acre parcel on Delta Fair Blvd. near Hwy 4 where Century Blvd. dead ends. Dignity Moves Homekey presentation ACC021423

According to the presentation, Dignity Moves is a new, non-profit that proposes using “Modular and pre-fabricated building techniques for rapid, cost-effective construction.”

The proposed project would require a capital match and operating expenses from the City of $13 million for a five-year program and up to $25.75 million for a 10-year program.

“I want to caution…when we ask questions, we not imply we’re going in this direction,” Mayor Thorpe warned the council and public.

Antioch resident and homeless advocate Andrew Becker said during public comments, “That was an exciting presentation” then complained about a recent sweep of homeless encampment.

“This presentation is an opportunity. Homekey is an opportunity,” he continued. “Respectfully, as a city we’ve put out an RFP for Homekey. Focus Strategies put out an RFP for Homekey. Where are we? What have we done?”

He made the claim that representatives of Comfort Inn approached city staff asking if they wanted to use that hotel for the Homekey program but that city staff declined and didn’t bring it to the city council to decide.

“This is the opportunity. This is the time,” Becker added.

Five other residents also spoke in support of the proposal, with two complaining that the city has been kicking things down the road in dealing with the City’s homeless.

“I’m hopeful that they come through with safety,” resident Patricia Granados said.

During council discussion of the presentation, District 3 Councilwoman Lori Ogorchock spoke first saying, “I personally like the program. I’m glad (one of the presenters) spoke about other programs. With this program, there’s an opportunity to house families, kids, get them out of cars. I’m very interested, and I’d like to see more about this program.”

Mayor Pro Tem Tamisha Torres-Walker then said, “I like housing that goes from transition to temporary to permanent. I’ve been to a modular community, and I’ve seen what could happen, and the opportunity for gardens and taking care of their pets. All the consideration that’s put into these projects and not just the development. We are now in the potential last round is a little unfortunate. Because we had the chance…and we forfeited that opportunity and we should really apologize to the community, especially to those living on the streets.”

She complained about Comfort Inn mentioned by Becker not being brought to the council for use as a Homekey site for transitional housing for the city’s homeless population.

District 4 Councilwoman Monica Wilson said with a laugh, “I want to thank Andrew for constantly bugging me about this.” She spoke of the Five Keys and the programs offered of getting residents connected to job training…and trauma informed services and trauma informed care, and restorative justice. I didn’t hear it. He may have said it.

Trauma means their own room,” one of the presenters said in response. She said, Gensler, a global architect firm, which designs the projects, includes that in their design.

“Our whole approach is trauma informed,” the Five Keys spokesman then shared. “We work on de-escalation…understanding what their path and journey has been. It’s not just the custodian, not just the security guard. We have staff cross-trained.”

Thorpe then said, “We did have an RFP process and we did vote to reject the proposal.”

“I anticipated that you guys would apply but you didn’t,” he said directing his comments to Dignity Moves. “We’re just as frustrated as anybody seeing folks living out on our streets. The challenges we’ve had here are timelines. Timelines take a long time.”

“Since you mentioned timelines…we’ve been talking about this since the first round of Homekey,” Torres-Walker responded. “There was not enough time…the timelines were too tight. Here we are after two years and two rounds asking for them to bring something, again in a tight timeline. We’re in the third round we had an opportunity with an insufficient timeline…because we’re not all bought into this process. The timeline wasn’t enough. This one may not be. But I’m hopeful.”

“I’m hopeful, too,” Thorpe said. “I wasn’t referring to the overall timeline of our process. I’m referring to timeline of this process.”

“The timeline is going to be really short,” one of the presenters said in response. “The state is doing the decision. There’s going to be a short fuse.” She then spoke of March as a deadline by the state.

“We will have something for the next meeting,” Thorpe said. “We’re talking about March.”

“One of the big pieces…we need to discuss the financial commitment on behalf of the city…to advertise and be sure we’re disclosing to bidders and what we’re bringing,” Assistant City Manager Rosanna Bayon Moore stated.

“At the end we’re going to have to get our consultant to call a special meeting to get this on the agenda as soon as possible,” Thorpe shared.

Ogorchock then said, “I think we need to move on this. I personally don’t want to miss out on the opportunity of the third round.”

“It also looks like the comment from Dignity Moves is that it doesn’t have to be an RFP,” Torres-Walker said.

“There are other cities that have formed a development team and not gone into an RFP process,” one of the Dignity Moves offered.

“Let’s have…maybe a sidebar discussion leading up to a special meeting,” Thorpe said in conclusion.

 

 

During the Antioch City Council on Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2023 meeting, it was announced that application deadline for appointments to the seven vacancies on the City’s new Police Oversight Commission has been extended until this Friday, Feb. 17.

Formation of the new commission was approved by the council in May 2022.

CURRENT VACANCIES:

• (2) 1-year terms, expiring November 30, 2023
• (2) 2-year terms, expiring November 30, 2024
• (3) 3-year terms, expiring November 30, 2025

MEETINGS:

• Twice a month, except in July and December, when meetings occur only once.

SEATS:

• 4 representatives, 1 from each District
• 1 representative from Faith-based community
• 1 representative from Business community
• 1 employee or student from Antioch Unified School District

REQUIREMENTS:

• All members must reside in the City of Antioch
• Not a spouse of, or a current/former City employee / department-sworn employee / sworn police officer / sworn police officer association representative

To be considered for the vacancy position(s) listed above, please fill out and sign the “Community Service Application” form, available at City Hall or online at https://www.antiochca.gov/government/boards-commissions/.

Then, e-mail it to cityclerk@antiochca.gov, or print and mail/drop off in the water billing drop-off box outside City Hall at: City Clerk, 200 H Street, Antioch, CA 94509

 

This year’s theme is focused on Black Health and Wellness

At the beginning of their regular meeting on Tuesday night, Feb. 14, 2023, the Antioch City Council unanimously approved a proclamation honoring February as Black History Month. Antioch resident Odessa LeFrancois, president and other members of the NAACP East County Branch accepted the proclamation.

Following is the complete text: City of Antioch Black History Month proclamation 021423

IN HONOR OF

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

FEBRUARY 2023

WHEREAS, Black History Month is observed in February of every year;

WHEREAS, the origins of Black History Month can be traced to 1915, half a century

after the Thirteenth Amendment abolished slavery in the United States;

WHEREAS, the Black History Month 2023 theme focuses on the importance of Black Health

and Wellness. This theme acknowledges the legacy of not only Black scholars and medical

practitioners in Western medicine, but also other ways of knowing (for example,

doulas, midwives, herbalists, etc.) throughout the African Diaspora.

The 2023 theme considers activities, rituals, and initiatives that

Black communities have engaged in to achieve wellness;

WHEREAS, the achievements of African Americans in the Arts, Civil Rights, Education,

Entertainment, Government, History, Law, Literature, Medicine, Military,

Music, Politics, Science, Sports, and other endeavors are recognized

and celebrated in the month of February;

WHEREAS, the observance of Black History Month calls our attention to the ongoing need

to build a community and society that live up to our collective democratic ideals;

WHEREAS, the City of Antioch continues to work toward becoming an inclusive community

in which all residents — past, present, and future — are respected and recognized

for their contributions and potential contributions to our community,

the state, the country, and the world; and

WHEREAS, the City of Antioch is proud to honor the history and contributions of

African Americans in our community, throughout our state, and nation.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, LAMAR A. THORPE, Mayor of the City of Antioch,

hereby proclaim February 2023 to be “BLACK HISTORY MONTH.” I encourage all citizens

to celebrate our diverse heritage and culture and to continue our efforts to create

a world that is more just, peaceful, and prosperous for all.

FEBRUARY 14, 2023

Learn more about Black History Month visit www.history.com/topics/black-history/black-history-month.

Thorpe looking for a little love from fellow council members so he can have a taxpayer-funded, part-time secretary to support him in his part-time policy making position

Council will also deal with three lawsuits, city attorney’s performance evaluation during closed session

By Allen D. Payton

During their meeting on Valentine’s Day night, Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2023, the Antioch City Council will once again consider hiring three part-time secretaries to provide staff support for themselves in an unprecedented action. Mayor Lamar Thorpe is hoping at least two council members will show him some love and give him his own secretary to help him with his part-time policy making role, and two more to serve the other four part-time council members. (See Item 11)

In addition, the council will consider approving another cannabis distribution business, Delta Distribution planned for 2101 W. 10th Street in the same building as the Delta Dispensary owned by the same family. (See Item 8)

The council will also consider increasing street sweeping services. (See Item 10)

Closed Session

Before the regular meeting at 7:00 p.m., the council will meet in closed session at 6:30 p.m.to discuss lawsuits by four energy companies. At least one is about the council majority’s decision, last year, to vote against renewing the franchise agreement for the natural gas pipeline that runs beneath the city.

California Resources Production is suing the City of Antioch and City Council in Contra Costa County Superior Court Case No. N21-2354. In the second lawsuit, Delta Gas Gathering, Inc. and California Energy Exchange Corporation are suing the City of Antioch and City Council in Contra Costa County Superior Court Case No. N21-2355.

The third lawsuit the council will consider is by Enerfin Resources Northwest Limited Partnership which is also suing the City of Antioch and City Council in the Contra Costa County Superior Court Case No. N21-2356.  According to unicort.com, the three cases are each a writ of mandamus which “is a civil action lawsuit that seeks to compel a government entity to act in a specific instance”. However, the website also reads for each, “Court documents are not available for this case.”

Also, during closed session, the council will provide City Attorney Thomas Lloyd Smith with his performance evaluation.

Council Secretaries

The last time the council discussed hiring part-time secretaries was during a special Friday the 13th afternoon meeting which proved to be unlucky for Thorpe as Mayor Pro Tem and District 1 Councilwoman Tamisha Torres-Walker suggested the positions be filled by interns. Even though she said it was her idea, Torres-Walker wouldn’t approve any of them at that time, siding with District 3 Councilwoman Lori Ogorchock who opposes them altogether. District 2 Councilman Mike Barbanica was absent from the meeting and the matter was postponed.

While Thorpe is hoping for two more votes to support him hiring a taxpayer funded, part-time assistant, he may be looking for love in all the wrong places as Torres-Walker said at the Feb. 13th meeting, “After having several hours conversations with community members…we came to the conclusion, this probably isn’t the right direction to go in. The right direction would be internships. I’m not prepared to support this tonight or in the future. But I would support a public policy internship program.”

So, the mayor may have to look somewhere other than the city council members for an open heart Tuesday night. (He might want to check with Zale’s).

Public Comments

The public has the opportunity to address the City Council on each agenda item. No one may speak more than once on an agenda item or during “Public Comments”.

Members of the public wishing to provide public comments, may do so in one of the following ways (#2 pertains to the Zoom Webinar Platform):

1. IN PERSON – Fill out a Speaker Request Form, available near the entrance doors, and place in the Speaker Card Tray near the City Clerk before the City Council Meeting begins.
2. VIRTUAL – To provide oral public comments during the meeting, please click the following link to register in advance to access the meeting via Zoom Webinar: https://www.antiochca.gov/speakers

• You will be asked to enter an email address and a name. Your email address will not be disclosed to the public. After registering, you will receive an email with instructions on how to connect to the meeting.
• When the Mayor announces public comments, click the “raise hand” feature in Zoom. For instructions on using the “raise hand” feature in Zoom, visit:

https://www.antiochca.gov/raise_hand. When calling into the meeting using the Zoom Webinar telephone number, press *9 on your telephone keypad to “raise your hand”. Please ensure your Zoom client is updated so staff can enable your microphone when it is your turn to speak.

Speakers will be notified shortly before they are called to speak. When you are called to speak, please limit your comments to the time allotted (350 words, up to 3 minutes, at the discretion of the Mayor).

The City cannot guarantee that its network and/or the site will be uninterrupted.

3. WRITTEN PUBLIC COMMENT – If you wish to provide a written public comment, you may do so in one of the following ways by 3:00 p.m. the day of the City Council Meeting:

(1) Fill out an online speaker card, located at https://www.antiochca.gov/speaker_card,

Or,

(2) Email the City Clerk’s Department at cityclerk@ci.antioch.ca.us.

Please note: Written public comments received by 3:00 p.m. the day of the City Council Meeting will be shared with the City Council before the meeting, entered into the public record, retained on file by the City Clerk’s Office, and available to the public upon request. Written public comments will not be read during the City Council Meeting.

“Mayor Thorpe was indicating he had placed the yoke of oppression on Antioch’s police officers and implemented what seemed an era of tyranny towards Antioch officers…Mayor Thorpe’s outlandish statements are politically motivated, and I believe he would use an Oakley officer as a pawn to advance his political agenda.” – Councilman George Fuller

Antioch Police Officers respond to Fuller’s remarks, take swipe at Thorpe

“The mayor’s constant attacks against our officers have always been unhelpful” – APD Sgt. & APOA President Rick Hoffman

NAACP President says “nothing inappropriate” about Thorpe’s comments; Antioch resident “embarrassed” by them

By Allen D. Payton

At the end of the Oakley City Council meeting Tuesday night, Jan. 24, 2023, Councilman George Fuller took a swipe at Antioch Mayor Lamar Thorpe not wanting to have Oakley Police Officers provide support to Antioch Police because of something Thorpe said at the recent MLK Day Breakfast hosted by the NAACP East County Branch. (See 1:50 mark of video)

Fuller spoke about the Antioch City Council and said, “Now, we stay on our side and I’m very happy. But there’s one thing that I’m very, very concerned about, and that is we have a mutual aid agreement with Antioch for our officers to go to the city to assist officers in that location to make arrests, put their lives on the line, and perhaps become involved in a…and I want to discuss what we can do to protect our officers. Because the way it was going was that if something happens over there, Mayor Thorpe is going to be very happy to say ‘well, our officers misbehaved’…and I don’t want to see their careers go up.”

“Our officers are trained. Whatever he says, our officers are trained,” Fuller continued. “I do not want my officers going over there and suddenly finding themselves in trouble.”

Fuller Explains His Concerns About Thorpe’s Remarks

Asked what Thorpe had said at the breakfast that caused his concern, Fuller responded in an email writing, “Before going any further, I need to say that I find the East Contra Costa NAACP a viable organization that has worked extensively, and still does, to create homogeneous communities in East Contra Costa County that are diverse and inclusive. I am completing my membership request to become a member of the association.

I did attend the Martin Luther King, Jr’s prayer breakfast, sponsored by the East Contra Costa NAACP. I received an invite from Odessa LeFrancois, installed as president of the group during the meal. I am grateful that Ms. LeFrancois extended the invitation.

I represented the proclamation that the City Council of Oakley extended honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. I did so at the behest of Ms. LeFrancois. The proclamation was the first to honor Dr. King by the City of Oakley City Council. The reception of the proclamation of those attending the breakfast was commendatory.

Mayor Thorpe followed my presentation. Mayor Thorpe’s first words were, ‘Some cities just give proclamations; in Antioch, we do something about it.’ The statement intended to insult Oakley’s proclamation. It was evident in Mayor Thorpe’s mind that the Oakley City Council gives a token acknowledgment of Dr. King’s legacy but fails to address systemic racism in Oakley. Yes, Mayor Thorpe’s rhetoric and hostile discourse are not valid.

Mayor Thorpe said he has solved racism in Antioch by ‘reining in the police’. Mayor Thorpe stated, ‘we have banned certain control holds that the police can use. We deny the police the use of military-grade equipment. We have created a police oversight commission.’ Mayor Thorpe was indicating he had placed the yoke of oppression on Antioch’s police officers and implemented what seemed an era of tyranny towards Antioch officers. Mayor Thorpe said that his efforts have resulted in a fifty percent decrease in murders in Antioch. Antioch residents did not suffer injustices from the police because of his actions.

Mayor Thorpe continued that there were three Black council members on the Antioch City Council. Consequently, Mayor Thorpe could implement his agenda, which favored Black lives in Antioch. Also, those who attempted to recall him from the council would experience consequences for trying to do so. In short, Mayor Thorpe marginalized Antioch Police Officers as a violent, out-of-control, racist organization, and he was protecting Antioch from the police.

Initially, Mayor Thorpe experienced polite applause for his statements. At the end of his lengthy monologue, he received no applause.

My immediate concern was the well-being of Oakley Police Officers. Oakley officers respond to mutual aid requests from the Antioch Police Officers when the Antioch officers confront an emergency that strains their safety resources. Mayor Thorpe’s statements indicate that he would have no qualms demonizing an Oakley officer for responding to a situation where lives were at risk. The threat to the officer, and the officer’s family, would be catastrophic. Mayor Thorpe’s outlandish statements are politically motivated, and I believe he would use an Oakley officer as a pawn to advance his political agenda.

I believe it is incumbent on the Oakley City Council to determine the threat to Oakley officers and take precautionary measures to protect them as they respond to mutual aid requests in Antioch. I am grateful that the Oakley City Council agreed (except perhaps one member who has publicly commented on my statements) to discuss the issue and reconcile any dangers to Oakley officers.

The Oakley Police Department offers extensive training on professional responses to critical safety issues and contains them with the least amount of force necessary to control the situation. The City of Oakley takes a course of providing adequate funding for the police department to be able to deliver professional police services properly. Oakley officers are aware of systemic racism, even in Oakley, and how to respond to such demagoguery ensures the well-being of all members of the Oakley inclusive community.

An example of Oakley’s professionalism occurred the night of January 15, 2023, the night before the NAACP breakfast; officers responded to a man with a gun in Oakley. Upon arrival, the suspect pointed a gun at the officer. The officer retreated, and the Oakley officers contained the area and called for a mental health team to respond to the location. The mental health team responded by convincing the suspect to surrender their weapon. The officers afforded the health services the suspect so urgently required. That is an example of the ‘true grit professional police services’ Oakley officers deliver. I will not allow those services to be ‘trashed’ by Mayor Thorpe.

I do not want to see an Oakley officer end their career by saving the life of an Antioch officer or Antioch resident and suffer a catastrophic tyrannical political outburst from the Mayor of Antioch, Lamar Thorpe.

I previously mentioned that Mayor Thorpe delivered similar statements at the Contra Costa Mayors Association in Hercules on January 5, 2023.

Hopefully, the above answers your request.

With best regards,

George Fuller, MPA, MA”

——————-

Antioch Police Officers Respond to Fuller, Take Swipes at Thorpe

In a message to the media on Thursday afternoon, also posted later on the Antioch Police Officers Association Facebook page, President and APD Sergeant Rick Hoffman wrote, “Earlier today, the APOA was solicited for comment regarding an Oakley City Council member requesting that the Oakley Police Department stop sending officers into Antioch after hearing remarks from Mayor Thorpe at an NAACP breakfast. As we said earlier, the idea of neighboring police agencies not assisting each other is deeply troubling. We recognize that crime has no borders and the best way to combat crime and keep the citizens of our cities safe is by everyone, police officer and citizen alike, to work together. APD has always and will continue to work with our neighboring agencies in times of need. We will always answer the call when they ask, and we hope they will do the same.

What we, as a POA, want to further highlight is the unnecessary and disparaging remarks that Mayor Thorpe makes on a routine basis towards the officers of APD. Mayor Thorpe claims that he has outlawed certain control holds and has mandated that our officers act in a certain manner. Not only is the claim that he has outlawed control holds inaccurate at best, but the further claim that his alleged efforts have led to a reduction in Antioch’s murder rate is a slap in the face to the hard work of the men and women of APD. Facing an unprecedented staffing shortage, our officers work diligently to solve these crimes amidst one of the most tumultuous times ever faced by our department. The mayor’s constant attacks against our officers have always been unhelpful but we wish to highlight that his comments are now also dangerous and putting officer’s lives at risk. For his comments to cause other cities to entertain the idea of no longer assisting our department is alarming and we call on the mayor to exercise caution and restraint when speaking about our officers.

We would also like to recognize that we have always had, and plan on continuing, a great working relationship with our neighboring agencies. Specifically, we appreciate the ongoing support we receive from the Oakley, Pittsburg, and Brentwood Police Departments.”

——————-

NAACP President Responds

“I don’t know what they’re talking about,” Odessa LeFrancois, Antioch resident and recently elected President of the NAACP East County Branch said when reached for comment regarding Thorpe’s remarks. “As far as what I know, Lamar didn’t say anything inappropriate at the breakfast.”

Antioch Resident and Breakfast Attendee “Embarrassed” by Thorpe’s Remarks

Antioch resident Velma Wilson, who also attended the breakfast, disagreed with LeFrancois and confirmed Fuller’s views on Thorpe’s remarks.

“The Oakley Councilmember presented a proclamation of being more active with organizations like the NAACP and spreading the message of Dr. King. The councilman had a service animal with him,” she said. “Thorpe wasn’t on the program. It was toward the end of the meeting. But then he went on this rant about Black people and that although we are in Pittsburg our city is the most of diverse.”

Wilson continued saying Thorpe said, “‘We aren’t just typing up a resolution to sound pretty we’re actually putting into action our work. I’m proud of the work of the three Black council members and we’re not going to stop.’”

“He also said, ‘I know we have a recall proponent in here,’” she said referring to her.

“‘In East County we are the city holding our police officers accountable and we are the council, and I reiterate, a majority Black council that made sure we had body cameras on each of our officers.’” Wilson recalled of Thorpe’s remarks.

“MLK, yes, he fought for civil rights, but for all,” Wilson stated.

“A lot of people were checking out and getting up. He went more on a racial thing,” she continued about Thorpe’s remarks.

“Even (Pittsburg Mayor) Shanelle (Scales-Preston) was ‘how do you say, you’re in Pittsburg, you’re at MLK Junior High on MLK Day, and you say Antioch is the best’?” Wilson stated. “I was embarrassed as an Antioch resident.”
“Lamar thought he had an audience that would cheer and clap for that crazy speech. He may have had three people clap for him,” she added.

Thorpe Does Not Respond

The mayor of Antioch was asked via email Wednesday if he had any comment on his remarks at the breakfast, responses to Fuller’s comments and the APOA’s statement and about the mutual aid between the two police departments. But Thorpe did not respond.

Recognizes MLK Day, approves $1 million for small business grants

By Allen D. Payton

During their meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2023, the Antioch City Council voted for another cannabis business and $1 million in federal funds for small business grants. They also recognized MLK Day, honored Antioch’s 2022-23 Lifetime Veteran of the Year and proclaimed Friday, January 27, 2023 as Grace Bible Fellowship of Antioch Day.

The council also approved the Housing Element Update which included Amendments to the East Lone Tree Specific Plan for the Commercial and Employment Phase and tabled a proposed new salary range for department directors.  (See related articles here and here)

Closed Session Report

At the beginning of the regular council meeting, City Attorney Thomas L. Smith reported out from Closed Session saying, “the City Council decided to settle the case by $10,000.” It passed on a 4-1 vote with Mayor Pro Tamisha Torres-Walker voting no.

In the case, David L. Cook sued the City alleging “that he was improperly arrested and detained on multiple occasions”.

Smith also said there was no reportable action on the performance evaluations of City Manager Con Johnson and himself.

District 3 Councilwoman Lori Ogorchock asked to move up Item 10 on the agenda regarding the department director salary adjustments after the proclamations. The council unanimously approved the motion.

MLK Day Recognized

The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day was recognized by the council due to the cancellation of the MLK Day of Service because of the weather. The council shared Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech.

“This will be our small version of our MLK Day event,” Thorpe said. “As I’ve listened to some folks quote Dr. King…that person has never listened to Dr. King’s speech because he’s taken so out of context. This is a man who is more complex than ‘I Have a Dream’.”

A video of the civil rights leader’s 17-minute speech in August 1963 during the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom was then broadcast followed by remarks from Dr. Lamont Francies, Senior Pastor of Delta Bay Church in Antioch, and a poem entitled “What if” by Jose Cordon who Thorpe appointed last year at the city’s poet laureate.

Thorpe Asks Forgiveness for His Past Behavior

Mayor Lamar Thorpe, who had his right arm in a sling during the meeting, then publicly apologized for his behavior, last year.

“If I have embarrassed this city…I ask your forgiveness,” Thorpe stated.

But he then said, “I want to challenge you, myself because you all aren’t perfect so there should be no finger pointing.”

An effort to ask the mayor why his arm is in a sling was unsuccessful prior to publication time.

Later, during his Mayor’s Comments, Thorpe said, “We wasted so much time, last year beating each other up. Rather than recall me help me in getting people housed.”

Commission Appointments

The council then moved up Items 7 and 8 on the agenda for the appointments of Antwon Webster to the Board of Administrative Appeals and Dorothy Ellis to the Parks and Recreation Commission, both on 5-0 votes.

Honors & Proclamations

The council then honored resident Autrey James who was selected the 2022-23 Antioch Lifetime Veteran of the Year and proclaimed Friday, Jan. 27, 2023 as Grace Bible Fellowship of Antioch Day.  (See related article)  Autrey James Antioch Lifetime Veteran of the Year 2022-23

Approves $1M for Small Business Grants

During the Consent Calendar portion of the meeting, the council authorized the Economic Development Director to disburse American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds up to $500,000 for Small Business Grants and up to $500,000 for Façade Upgrade Grants. City of Antioch Small Business Programs ACC 012423

According to the city staff report, “The City of Antioch is partnering with FORWARD to support eligible small businesses in Antioch. FORWARD is a platform that helps public agencies administer programs through an online portal. FORWARD’s scope of work includes marketing/outreach, an application intake portal, application processing, fraud protection, email, chat, and call center support, and data reporting.

The Small Business Grant program will provide grant payments ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 for eligible small businesses that experienced a negative financial impact due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. The Façade Upgrade Program will provide reimbursement grants ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 for eligible small businesses that have experienced a negative financial impact from the COVID-19 Pandemic.”

Application intake for both programs will begin February 1, 2023.

Approve Another Cannabis Business on Split Vote

The council on a 3-2 vote approved the cannabis operating agreement for Natural Supplements, Inc. According to the city staff report, the business which already holds a Cannabis Business Use Permit approved by the council last February, will be located at 2100-2300 Wilbur Avenue and include construction of two buildings, of 11,200 and 19,500 square feet. Approval of the operating agreement will result in increased revenue to the City and the social equity program supported by the operating agreement from Natural Supplements’ business. The proposed recipient of the social equity program is Rubicon, which has several locations in the county, including one in Antioch.

“I would like to see the list of the non-profits we are going to include in the equity program,” Ogorchock said. “There’s some of them the list that I’d like to see come back.”

“I’ve been on the Cannabis Standing Committee for the past two years,” Torres-Walker stated. “I was disappointed there wasn’t more of a public process to select the equity partners. There was a commitment to have a public process, but that process has not begun.”

She explained that the intent of the funds are, “to clean up around the impact…of cannabis as a result of the War on Drugs and the criminalization of cannabis…to Black and brown communities.”

“There is no requirement to report back to this council or anyone else the impact of the funds,” she continued. “I know that Rubicon does that in the community. But I’m concerned a lot of these organizations don’t have to report.”

“Moving forward I hope the community can attend these standing committees and…have your voice heard,” Torres-Walker added.

“In our original cannabis policy, the requirement was if social equity was the avenue we were going to take, the applicant was responsible for finding the equity partner,” Thorpe shared. “Because we don’t have the capacity at the city to support a social equity program.”

“There is an annual review of all these equity programs by the city attorney,” he added.

“I understand what you’re saying, mayor and I’m clear the public doesn’t understand the process,” Torres-Walker responded. “I’m just saying it’s not just the city attorney to see the outcomes of these funds. It’s the public’s right to see the outcomes. If we just let a dispensary roll in here, not knowing the make up of the community, not knowing the needs of the community…come back to us and let us know who you want to support. I’m looking forward to having those conversations in the standing committee.”

“The operating agreement is reviewed by the standing committee and by the council,” Thorpe said. “If you don’t agree…there isn’t just a stamp here. We vote to approve. There are several review processes in this review process, now.”

The motion was then approved on a 3-2 vote with Ogorchock and Barbanica voting against.

Barbanica Announces His Standby Councilmembers

Because he was absent from the special Friday meeting on Jan. 13th at which the other four council members announced their standby council members, Barbanica announced the three Antioch residents he’s chosen to stand in for him in case of his incapacity or death during a state of emergency. He appointed William Barbanica, II, Benjamin McCurdy and Michael Schneider.

Thorpe Challenged During General Public Comments

Antioch resident and homeless advocate Andrew Becker spoke during general public comments challenging the mayor and council for holding the special meeting on Friday, January 13 and including items from the previously scheduled, regular meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 10 which was adjourned. (See related articles here, here and here)

He said that an adjourned meeting requires the agenda items be placed on a regular council meeting agenda, not a special meeting agenda.

“You, Mr. Mayor referenced that previous meeting that the packet had been out since Thursday,” Becker stated. “You had the time to go on Facebook and post that the meeting had been cancelled completely outside the process.”

He spoke of the fact during the consent calendar of the special meeting, another “$120,000 was allocated to Focus Strategies for an unhoused resident coordinator.”

“They don’t answer my calls. I’m a non-profit that’s trying to build housing in this community,” Becker complained. “Public comments before you vote on that consent calendar item, I was stripped of.”

“Where were you 30 minutes before that meeting, Mr. Mayor,” Becker asked Thorpe. “Tell the community why you can’t make it to a regularly scheduled meeting. This is serious work and I do make public comments.”

Thorpe then suspended the meeting for a five-minute break.

Later, during general public comments at the end of the meeting, Becker continued his concerns with Thorpe saying, “That Brown Act actually specifically requires a speaker does not have to fill out a speaker’s card. So, there are processes that were created here. Those speaker cards have been here for a long time. I’ve worked very hard to be professional and understanding. But when my right…is denied…I’m very frustrated because you…think you have the right to say I have to fill out another card, just like you think you have the right to cancel a meeting.”

“You work very hard to rein public comments in,” he continued. “I’ve never seen a mayor work so hard to rein public comments in. How many times have I reached out to you? I reached out to you…you laughed at me. You talk about the homeless people out on the streets after the storms. Yeah, because they were moved out of creek areas and waterways.”

“If you want to control comments you have the responsibility to do it properly,” Becker added before his three minutes were up.

By Allen D. Payton

During their meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2023, the Antioch City Council approved for 2023-2031 resolutions and ordinances related to the 663-page 6th Cycle Housing Element Update. They include the Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA), Amendments to the East Lone Tree Specific Plan and the Multi-Family Residential Objective Design Standards. Antioch 2023-31 Housing Element Update Sections 1-8    Antioch 2023-31 Housing Element Update Adppendix A    Antioch 2023-31 Housing Element Update Adppendix B  Antioch 2023-31 Housing Element Update Adppendices C-F

The RHNA is a requirement of state housing law and is a process that determines projected and existing housing need for all jurisdictions (city or unincorporated county) in California. The latest plan requires the city to approve a total of 3,016 new housing units in four categories from 2023 to 2031. They include 792 Very Low-Income Units, 456 Low-Income Units, 493 Moderate-Income Units and 1,275 Above Moderate-Income Units. However, the city’s plans already include more than enough of each type of units for a total of 4,881 units of 62% more than required. Those include housing units already approved and in the “pipeline”, projected Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU’s) which are small housing units on the property of existing residences, sometimes referred to as “in-law units”; pending units and future multi-family development.

“This is a pretty important element of the city. We do this every eight years,” Thorpe explained.

“This is a state required policy, addressing housing, specifically…where we want to see housing,” Planning Manager Ann Hersch said. “There is no development being proposed at this time. This is a change on paper. It’s really policy changes at this time.”

“The first time…it was more equitable in how they dispersed the housing development in the Bay Area,” Thorpe said. “While other cities like San Mateo fought it and got all the businesses, we were stuck with all the housing and the problems. So, this is an important policy that for the first time is equitable throughout the Bay Area.”

“Just because we rezone something it doesn’t mean there’s going to be housing on it,” he continued. “It depends on the property owner. There are certain shopping plazas in Antioch that will be rezoned to accommodate housing. We are changing those rules to accommodate state law. Their process will be more streamlined than others do.”

“Those are the kinds of changes that we may implement, today. Some of it we just can’t get around,” Thorpe added.

Most of the residents who spoke during public comments on the item live in the Viera Avenue neighborhood off E. 18th Street who are concerned about increasing density and adding more housing in their part of town, which has been more rural, and not wanting the nearby vineyards from being developed.

Adopt East Lone Tree Specific Plan Amendments

Formerly known as Future Urban Area #2 or FUA-2 and adopted as the East Lone Tree Specific Plan area by the city council in 1996, consists of approximately 200 acres of land at Laurel Road and Highway 4, set aside for employment and commercial development. It includes the housing on the west side of Highway 4 north of Lone Tree Way and the Slatten Ranch Shopping Center. The council approved amendments to the plan for the employment and commercial phase on the north and east side of the freeway. In that portion of the plan, Slatten Ranch Road will be extended from J.C. Penney and from the Antioch BART Station to Laurel Road.  East Lone Tree Specific Plan ACC012423

Council Discussion

Regarding “Community engagement. Did we do enough of it?” Wilson asked.

“We had two public workshops. We also had planning commission meetings and the council meeting in June. We also had an online survey up.,” Hersch responded.

“Did we do these community meetings at different times?” Wilson pressed further.

“Those were both Wednesday evenings. There were also Spanish-language workshops,” Hersch said.

“We have to do better with this outreach,” Wilson said. “If I lived in a neighborhood and I saw my house highlighted I’d be a little freaked out, too.”

“How are we supporting special needs, now and propose supporting them in the future,” Wilson asked.

“Housing is shared between the Community Development Department. But the administration of programs will be handled in the new Public Safety and Community Services Department,” Community Development Director Forrest Ebbs explained.

All Six Resolutions Approved on 4-1 Votes

Ogorchock then moved approval of the six resolutions, and the council voted on each of them separately. They all passed on 4-1 votes with Barbanica voting against.

“The rezoning creates opportunities for residential development,” Ebbs explained about the property in the Viera Avenue neighborhood.

“What’s happening today is because of state law,” Thorpe added.

Following the meeting Barbanica was asked why he voted against each of the housing element update resolutions.

“Overall, this was going to pass, and I assumed that going into this,” he said. “I’m not anti-development. But I’m for smart development. When you take some of these people in the Viera Avenue area who didn’t want to be inside the city. Now, in the next housing update they’re looking at having their property rezoned, and facing potential development around their land, someone needs to listen to these folks.”

”

 

Following approval of contracts last fall and second survey of nearby cities

“It will cost the city $487,000 more in pay, not including benefits…for just these 12 individuals,” – Mark Haddock

By Allen D. Payton

After a lengthy discussion during their meeting, Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2023, the city council voted 4-1 to table the proposed department head salary adjustments. During her staff report City of Antioch Human Resources Director Ana Cortez said a 2022 salary survey showed for the city’s department heads, there was a difference of as much as $3,000 per month between their salaries ranging from $15,545 to $18,896 per month. Also, lower-level staff members are being paid more than the department heads, she shared.

“No one will be taking a pay cut,” Cortez added about the proposal.

During public comments Mark Haddock said, “A comparison of 11 neighboring cities shows some department heads are getting paid less would have an increase and those being paid more would remain the same.”

“The HR Director in 2021 in Step E would be making $161,000 per year. A new salary became $180,000 per year. This new proposal would have Step E, at $228,000 a $48,000 increase,” Haddock stated.

“It will cost the city $487,000 more in pay, not including benefits…for just these 12 individuals,” he said.

During council discussion of the item District 2 Councilman Mike Barbanica asked Cortez, “the survey we’re using for directors, currently, is that the same survey used during contract negotiations?”

No. That was a different…it was done more of a compensation survey,” Cortez responded. “I was looking at what other cities are doing…of having one salary range for all department heads.”

“We didn’t use that same survey or cities for this one…that’s what has me concerned,” Barbanica said. “Three months later we’re increasing the pay for department heads. That’s why I’m not for this.”

“We negotiated in good faith with all the bargaining units,” Ogorchock stated. “I also feel that in this package we’re not looking at the benefits. Our employees may be getting quite a bit more in benefits than these other cities. When I spoke with Brentwood, today this was the case. If we’re not comparing apples to apples…I’m going to stand by what we did several months ago.”

“Why wasn’t this discussed when we were going through contract negotiations?” Wilson asked.

“She wasn’t there,” Thorpe responded referring to Cortez.

“I was tasked with looking at salaries,” Cortez said.

“The reason that came was we gave direction to do that,” Thorpe said. “We asked them to do that.”

“I don’t recall us asking for a new survey,” Barbanica stated.

“You’re right,” Thorpe said. “I think what we ended up doing was a desk audit. Because people felt their pay was unfair and inequitable. Some of our department heads who have been here the longest were getting paid less than others who came, yesterday. Some of our department heads are women” and mentioned “the discrepancies particularly around gender.”

“I see both sides of the coin. We went through negotiations, and this should have been part of it. I’m seeing salaries that are not in line,” District 4 Councilwoman Monica Wilson said.

Ogorchock moved to table the item. Wilson seconded the motion.

Barbanica then said, “I’d rather this item just die and go away and come back the right way,” and offered a substitute motion.

“It doesn’t have all of our employees working off of one survey, we closed those negotiations. Send this back to staff and come back to us with a study or a proposal that is the same cities we asked all the employees to use,” he stated.

Thorpe seconded the motion.

If we do that, we’re still renegotiating with directors. Are we going to go back and renegotiate with all the MOU’s?” Ogorchock asked. “If we do this, we’re showing bad faith with all the other city employees. I understand there’s disparities. I think when we did the negotiations that’s when it should be discussed.”

“When was the close of the last directors’ negotiation?” Barbanica asked.

“It started with negotiations,” Thorpe said. “We negotiated in good faith. It’s taken this long to get up here.”

“I just didn’t know we would be using a different survey. I just want to stick to the same survey,” Barbanica stated. “We should be looking at this into the future. I just don’t like the study that was done.”

“I can go back and take a look. The salary survey done back then is outdated,” Cortez stated. “It was looking at one salary range. If I go back…it would not be comparing the same thing…of what I’m going to be comparing. Not all the agencies I surveyed had one salary range.”

“Our ask is to go back and look at those cities and see where they’re at,” Thorpe said.

“It can’t be that outdated we just closed with these groups a couple months ago,” Barbanica stated.

“Why would upper management sign the MOU, then?” Ogorchock asked.

“It was my understanding they believed they were going to look at the compaction,” Barbanica responded.

“I don’t recall that,” Ogorchock said.

“They looked at several positions,” Thorpe said. “We did a whole bunch of them. It’s not a mysterious thing.”

“I’m just trying to get clarification,” Mayor Pro Tem Tamisha Torres-Walker said. “Some people were not happy. Now, we’re here to discuss what was reviewed through that process. Management is hoping to come back. We had a salary survey done…now, we want them to go back and do another survey using the same salary survey and same salaries we already used.”

“If you don’t support it, if you don’t feel comfortable,” vote against it she urged her colleagues.

“Did you meet and confer with management on this?” Thorpe asked.

City Clerk Ellie Householder announced, “Ana Cortez nodded her head in response to the mayor’s question.”

Todd Northam an employee with the City’s Public Works Department then spoke on the motion mentioning, “The ‘me too’ clause that management had.”

“As far as I’m concerned, they’re locked in and bound,” he said. “Those at the bottom are the ones who are hurting. Those one-percenters at the top it means another pair of Guccis. You need to do the right thing for Antioch.”
Barbanica then said, “based on that comment I withdraw my substitute motion.”

“Then we go back to the original motion to table,” Thorpe said.

The motion to table passed on a 4-1 vote with Torres-Walker voting no.