Join us for the General Plan Update Kickoff Meeting on Tuesday, October 21st at 6:00 PM at the Antioch Community Center in Prewett Family Park at 4703 Lone Tree Way.
This special joint session with the City Council and Planning Commission will serve as a “General Plan 101” and is a great opportunity to learn how Antioch plans for the future and how YOU can get involved!
Every city and county in California is required by state law to prepare and maintain a planning document called a General Plan. A General Plan is designed to serve as the jurisdiction’s “constitution” or “blueprint” for future decisions concerning land use, social issues, circulation, recreation, infrastructure, public services, environment, and resource conservation. This General Plan Update will ensure Antioch addresses recent changes in state law, proactively plans for future challenges and opportunities, prioritizes economic growth and vitality, and builds upon the City’s unique heritage and community-focused atmosphere. The update, through each element, will provide a basis for local decision making and involves the community in the process of identifying goals and policies to define how the City should respond to needs for physical development over time.
On August 26, 2025, the City Council selected the De Novo Planning Group team to prepare its General Plan Update. The team’s subconsultants will provide technical expertise: W-trans (traffic and circulation), EPS (economic development and fiscal sustainability), Kearns & West (community outreach), and Cogstone Resource Management (cultural and historical resources).
The process will occur over the next two years with the Draft General Plan to be issued in January 2027 and final adoption by the Council in July or August 2027.
Source: City of Antioch
The Council and Commission will hear and see the presentation from De Novo Planning Group regarding the General Plan Update process and provide staff and the consultant with input regarding the following:
Opportunities, Issues, and Priorities
1. What are the top three most critical issues or opportunities you believe this General Plan Update must address to best serve Antioch’s future?
2. Are there any specific geographic areas or corridors within Antioch (e.g., the waterfront, specific commercial districts, a neighborhood) that you feel require special attention or a focused vision during this process?
3. Beyond fulfilling state requirements, what key achievement or outcome will define this General Plan Update as a success for the City of Antioch?
Source: City of Antioch
General Plan Advisory Committee
The Council and Commission will also discuss forming an advisory committee.
To ensure the General Plan Update receives consistent and focused feedback, an advisory committee is often established. The structure of this committee is a key decision that shapes how community and technical input is integrated into the process. We seek direction on whether one should be established, and, if so, the preferred model for Antioch. Common options include:
• Option A: Community-Based Advisory: This is a committee appointed by the City Council, typically composed of 9 to 15 residents, business owners, and community stakeholders who represent a diversity of geographic areas, interests, and demographic backgrounds. With this approach, the GPAC would hold a series of public meetings to discuss General Plan topics and provide an opportunity for public comment. Locally, the City of Brentwood and Contra Costa County have used this approach for their General Plan Updates.
• Option B: Technical Advisory Committee: This approach relies on a committee of technical experts from City departments (e.g., Planning, Public Works, Economic Development) and key partner agencies (e.g., school districts, regional transit, utility providers). The TAC ensures the plan is technically feasible and coordinated. In this model, broader public input is gathered primarily through the visioning workshops, open houses, and focused community meetings rather than a standing citizen committee. The City of Pittsburg employed this approach for its recent General Plan Update.
• Option C: Hybrid Model with the Planning Commission: In this streamlined model, the Planning Commission serves as the primary advisory body, holding dedicated study sessions throughout the process to provide policy guidance. This approach prioritizes efficiency, leveraging the Commission’s existing knowledge of land use issues and is often supplemented by a staff-level TAC for technical review.
Let’s talk about the big picture: growth, housing, transportation, parks and more. Your voice matters in shaping the future of Antioch.
Video screenshot of the Antioch Police Oversight Committee on Sept. 15, 2025.
Would require background process for commissioners, allow current police officers from other agencies or former APD or other agency officers, family members to serve
By Allen D. Payton
During their meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2025, under agenda Item 1, the Antioch City Council will receive a staff report on the Antioch Police Oversight Commission and consider recommended changes to the ordinance.
According to the City staff report, “On July 7, 2025, staff sought input from the APOC regarding updates to this ordinance. APOC’s suggestions were reviewed and consolidated with the suggestions that staff now presents to the City Council. This collaborative effort aims to ensure that any revisions to the ordinance reflect community values, enhance oversight effectiveness, and support the City’s broader goals of transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement.
“This effort is being carried out in response to City Council direction and aims to identify opportunities to strengthen the Commission’s structure, clarify its authority, and improve its effectiveness. One of the main goals of this review is to ensure consistency with best practices in civilian oversight and to support compliance with the Memorandum of Agreement between the City of Antioch and the U.S. Department of Justice.”
The suggested amendments to the ordinance include the following:
Under Section 4-3.103 MEMBERSHIP AND APPOINTMENT, adding “the Chair, Mayor, and City Manager shall interview applicants and make recommendations to the Council”; adding a background process for commission applicants with information from personal interviews and social media reviews, and have them sworn in by the City Clerk or an authorized member of the Clerk’s Office;
Revise the language to read: “The Mayor and City Council shall strive to appoint and confirm members to the Commission with the intent of ensuring meaningful representation from individuals with diverse backgrounds and perspectives. While not required to include representation from each category listed below, and recognizing that some individuals may reflect more than one category, the following are important Factors to consider when making appointments:”
Delete the following sub-subsections which list the individuals currently ineligible to serve as a Police Commissioner: a) current sworn police officer or his/ her spouse; c) former Department sworn employee or his/ her spouse; or d) current or former employee, official, or representative of an employee association representing sworn police officers or his/ her spouse. The only remaining prohibition would be for a current City employee or his/ her spouse.
Under Section 4-3.104 TERMS OF OFFICE AND REMOVAL FROM OFFICE, adding the City Manager, Mayor, or any member of the City Council has the authority to make the recommendation; under subsection D) Regarding the removal of a Commission member add, “the City Manager, Mayor, or any member of the City Council has the authority to make the recommendation.” (4) – sub-subsection d) Regarding “absences from at least three meetings in a one- year span of time” delete word “unexcused;” (5) – sub-subsection e) Change to “violation of the APOC Rules of Decorum and conduct policy.”
Under Section 4-3.106 MEETINGS, subsection (A) – change to “at least once each month” and delete “July and December” language and that APOC would have the authority to hold additional meetings by majority vote.
Under Section 4-3.108 BUDGET, include a sentence that the funding will be incorporated into the City Manager’s budget, with the specific allocation amount determined during each budget cycle.
Under Section 4-3.109 TRAINING, Add a requirement that each Commissioner complete a police ride-along within the first 30 days of appointment and participate in at least two ride-alongs annually. Additionally, Commissioners must complete use-of-force simulator training within 90 days of appointment and annually thereafter. Commissioners are also required to complete all training outlined in the APOC Training Plan. Add a requirement that all training requests requiring city funding must be pre-authorized by the City Manager.
Under Section 4-3.110 POWERS AND DUTIES, Add “Personnel Complaints” to list of policies. Edit: subsection (B) “Work with the City Attorney to clarify the process for recommending changes to the specified policies. If APOC and the department agrees on the proposed changes, the Police Chief shall amend the policy accordingly. If APOC and the Department disagree, the proposed changes shall be forwarded to the City Council for final approval or rejection.” Under subsection (D) – Discussion of the requirement for APOC to review the proposed budget and conduct at least one public hearing.”
Addition: Temporary pause of APOC. The City Council has the authority to temporarily pause APOC. Such action may only be approved by a majority vote of the City Council and will be based on factors including, but not limited to, the Commission’s effectiveness, compliance with legal obligations, budget constraints, or shifts in city priorities. The temporary suspension cannot exceed three months within a rolling 12-month period. APOC does not have the authority to pause, without City Council Authorization.”
The City Council can also offer additional recommendations.
The meeting will be held in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 200 H Street, in Antioch’s historic, downtown Rivertown. They can also be viewed via livestream on the City’s website and the City’s YouTube Channel, on Comcast Cable Channel 24 or AT&T U-verse Channel 99.
Renderings of the single-family homes and accessory dwelling units (top) and the duplexes (bottom) in the proposed Vineyard Crossing rental housing project. Source: BrightSky Residential
Will discuss $30 million lawsuit by desal plant general contractor
By Allen D. Payton
During their meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2025, the Antioch City Council will consider approving a 137-unit rental housing project in the northeast part of the city, within the City’s Priority Development Area north of the Antioch BART station. They will also consider spending an additional $245,000 on an Organizational Efficiency Implementation Consultant and splitting the $21 million L Street Pathway to Transit Project into two projects.
City Faces $30M+ Lawsuit by Desalination Plant General Contractor
Before the regular meeting, the council will hold a three-hour Closed Session, beginning at 4:00 p.m., for labor negotiations with the Management Unit, Treatment Plant Employees’ Association, Operating Engineers Local Union No. 3, Confidential Unit, Antioch Police Officers Association, and Antioch Police Sworn Management Association. In addition, the council will discuss two lawsuits, including: Shimmick Construction Co v. City of Antioch, Contra Costa Superior Court Case No. C25-01690 for Unlimited Breach of Contract/Warranty by the General Contractor for non-payment for work on the City’s Brackish Water Desalination Plant in which they are seeking damages of $30 million plus interest; and Antioch Adams Warehouse et al. v. Jason Walker (and City of Antioch), Contra Costa Superior Court Case No. MSC 18-02260 regarding a property dispute on Cesa Lane, as well as anticipated litigation.
Consultant for Organizational Efficiency Implementation Services
According to the City staff report, for Item 2.P., “It is recommended that the City Council adopt a resolution approving a Professional Services Agreement with K. Zelenka Consulting to provide organizational efficiency implementation services and other functions in an amount not to exceed $245,000…that will help the City Manager advance the City’s adopted efficiency review recommendations and ensure continuity in several key initiatives. The
consultant will concentrate on facilitating process improvements, coordinating efforts across departments, and supporting the City’s ongoing commitment to organizational effectiveness and customer-focused service delivery.”
In addition, the report reads, “K. Zelenka Consulting is in the process of completing the City’s comprehensive organizational efficiency audits, which have identified a series of actionable recommendations to improve operations, streamline processes, and enhance overall service delivery.
“The consultant will immediately continue the Operational Assessments with the Human Resources Department (in final draft phase) and will begin assessments for Antioch Police Department (APD) Dispatch Center, Community and Economic Development Department, and Parks and Recreation Services Department this month. The consultant will also identify new opportunities for process improvement, recommend strategies to enhance service delivery, and assist with community engagement and stakeholder communication related to organizational changes. As directed by the City Manager, the consultant may provide policy and program analysis and attend City Council or community meetings to present updates.
“Because K. Zelenka Consulting conducted the original organizational efficiency audits and possesses specialized knowledge of the City’s operations, her continued involvement is essential to maintain momentum and ensure consistency in implementation.
“Funding for this initiative will come from cost savings achieved during the vacancies of the Assistant City Manager and Executive Assistant positions within the City Manager’s office, while recruitment efforts to fill the open roles continue and commence.”
Vineyard Crossing Project Site map. Source: City of Antioch
Vineyard Crossing Rental Housing Project – Part of Almondridge, City’s PDA
Under Item 6, the Council will consider approving a 137-unit housing project by Walnut Creek-based BrightSky Residential on 14.6 acres located northwest of the intersection of Phillips Lane and Oakley Road within the City’s Priority Development Area near the BART Station. According to the City staff report, the proposed project would subdivide the project site into 71 individual lots containing 137 residential units total with 45 single-family residential lots and 40 accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on the western parcel. A condominium map could be recorded for the duplex lots 46-71 on the eastern parcel, for 26 duplex building lots creating 52 condominium lots.
In addition, the “proposed project designates 10% of base units (13 of the ADUs total) as affordable to low-income households to obtain a density bonus of 16 additional units (included in the 137) as well as waivers from certain development standards, in accordance with state density bonus law.” They would be deed-restricted and available for households earning 60 percent of the Area Median Income (AMI). The City’s proposed Inclusionary Housing Ordinance, which would require designating 15% of units in new developments as affordable, cannot apply as the Council has not yet adopted it.
The applicant has indicated that they intend to own and operate the entire project after construction as a rental housing community. However, the proposed Vesting Tentative Map is for condominium purposes for the duplex lots on the eastern parcel and would allow for the possible future sale of each residential duplex unit.
The project site is part of the Almondridge South Planned Development District that was entitled in 1991 but only partially developed since that time. Single-family residences were developed to the west of the project site, but both of the project parcels have remained undeveloped.
As part of the City’s 2003 General Plan, the western project parcel was designated Medium Low Density Residential with a density of up to 6 dwelling units/acre permitted and the eastern project parcel was designated Medium Density Residential with a density of up to 10 dwelling units/acre permitted.
The project applicant submitted a preliminary development plan and received feedback from the Antioch Planning Commission and City Council in December 2023 and January 2024 respectively.
The applicant submitted a Preliminary Application under SB 330 (The Housing Crisis Act of 2019). Through the Preliminary Application process put in place under SB 330, housing developments may only be subject to the ordinances and objective standards in effect at the time when a completed Preliminary Application is submitted. To qualify, projects had to be submitted prior to Jan. 1, 2025.
Rezoning Not Required, ADU’s Not Counted Toward Density per State Law
While the project does not conform to the adopted Planned Development zoning standards for the site such as lot size and setbacks, it is consistent with the density established in the General Plan, and therefore per state law, a rezoning is not required to develop the project. Additionally, per state law, accessory dwelling units are not counted as units for the purposes of determining the proposed density of a project.
As part of Plan Bay Area, each of the 101 cities in the nine-county Bay Area were required to set aside land for a Priority Development Area (PDA) near public transit planned for new homes, jobs and community amenities, including higher-density housing. In order for Antioch to obtain approval for a BART extension and station, the city council had to agree to 2,500 housing units in the City’s 400-acre PDA. It includes the land east of the BART station and north to E. 18th Street.
Amenities located on the western parcel of the site would include a recreation center with an outdoor pool area as well as a children’s play area. Amenities located on the eastern parcel would include an activity lawn area with park benches in the northern portion of the parcel.
Parking
The project provides a total of 408 parking spots. This includes 194 spots within 2-car garages for each single-family home and duplex unit, 130 spots within the single-family home and ADU driveways, and 84 spots on streets. Projects receiving a density bonus are entitled to reduced parking standards, with a maximum parking requirement of 1.5 parking spaces for a 3-bedroom unit (all units proposed for the development, with the exception of the ADU’s are 3-bedroom). The 45 single family homes and 52 duplex units would therefore require 146 parking spots.
The project parking therefore exceeds what is required for a density bonus project, and in fact also exceeds standard municipal code requirements for parking (single family detached – 2 spots per unit in a garage plus 1 guest spot – 135 total – single family attached – 2 spots per unit plus 1 per 5 units for guest parking – 114 spots total).
L Street Improvements Plan. Source: City of Antioch 5-Year CIP 2025-30
Split $21 Million L Street Pathway to Transit Improvement Project into Two
Under Item 8 the council will consider splitting the planned $21 million L Street improvement project into two projects to reserve funding.
According to the City staff report for the item, the L Street Pathway to Transit (“Project”) will improve accessibility for all modes of transportation and beautify the L Street corridor between Highway 4 and the Antioch Marina.
“The first phase of work on the Project will consist of modifying portions of the roadway, constructing new concrete curb, gutter, sidewalks and curb cuts, installing landscaping and decorative hardscape, improve bicycle access and upgrading signage, and striping throughout the Project from Highway 4 to Sycamore Drive, and from West Tenth Street to the Marina.
“The second phase of work will consist of widening the roadway to four lanes between West 10th Street to West 18th Street, installation of new sidewalks on the western side of the roadway, ADA-compliant upgrades, signal improvements at the intersection of W. 10th and W. 18th Streets, enhanced bus facilities, and the addition of bike lanes. (P. W. 234-16).
“In order to keep the funding sources separately, staff recommends separating this work into two projects. The first phase will be funded by Measure J funds in the amount of 1,191,465 and the One Bay Area Grant (OBAG2) in the amount of $1,469,000. The second phase will be funded by the state’s Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Account (RMRA) in the amount of $5,244,167, and a U.S. Department of Transportation’s Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Grant in the amount of $13,008,000, which has already been budgeted for in the 5 Year Capital Improvement Program 2025-2030.”
The meetings will be held in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 200 H Street, in Antioch’s historic, downtown Rivertown. They can also be viewed via livestream on the City’s website and the City’s YouTube Channel, on Comcast Cable Channel 24 or AT&T U-verse Channel 99.
New Antioch City Clerk Michael Mandy takes his seat at the dais, next to Stephanie Cabrera-Brown, an Administrative Analyst in the Clerk’s Department, after being appointed by the City Council and sworn in Tuesday night, Sept. 23, 2025. Photos by Allen D. Payton
Michael Mandy will serve until special election in November 2026
By Allen D. Payton
During a special meeting on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, the Antioch City Council interviewed five candidates for City Clerk and appointed, on a 4-1 vote, Michael Mandy, an AT&T Premises Technician, who will serve until a special election next November. Voters will then decide who to elect for the remainder of the four-year term. The vacancy was created by the sudden departure on July 30th of Melissa Rhodes who was elected last November.
Before appointing Mandy, District 3 Councilman Don Freitas thanked all those who applied and said, “We really, truly appreciate you stepping forward and this isn’t the last time we see you. We have boards and commissions that need you.”
Mayor Pro Tem and District 2 Councilman Louie Rocha then said, “Because this is a one-year appointment…there will be an election. This is a temporary appointment.” He then said, “Based on experience and what I wrote down. I make a motion to recommend Lori Ogorchock to the position and fill the term. Mayor Ron Bernal seconded the motion which died on a 2-0-3 vote, with Councilmembers Monica Wilson, Tamisha Torres-Walker and Freitas voting to abstain.
Then, Freitas made a motion to appoint Mandy which passed 4-1 with Rocha voting against.
Mayor Ron Bernal administers the oath of office to and congratulates new City Clerk Michael Mandy as his wife Aurora looks on during the special City Council meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2025.
Mandy Immediately Sworn In, Thanks Council, Goes to Work
Mandy was then joined by his wife Aurora as Bernal administered the oath of office. The new City Clerk then thanked the council and said, “I hope to make you proud for your selection. I appreciate it very much. Thank you very much.”
“This is very emotional. Thank you,” he added with laughter from him and the audience.
Following a brief council meeting recess, Mandy took his seat at the dais and a sign with his name was placed in front of him.
Michael Mandy speaks to the City Council before being appointed during the City Clerk interview process on Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2025.
Mandy’s Background from his Application
In his application for the appointment Mandy provided information about his background. He wrote, “My name is Michael Mandy, and I am writing this letter to be considered for the position of City Clerk of the city of Antioch, California. (See application)
“n May, 1994 my wife and I moved into our house, which is near the southern end of Hillcrest Avenue. So I have been a resident of Antioch for over 30 years. We raised our two children here, and they both attended Diablo Vista, Dallas Ranch, and Deer Valley High schools.
I am very proud of the City of Antioch. I have spent many hours hiking at Black Diamond Mines and the adjacent Reservoir. My family loved the Rivertown Jamboree (RIP), 4th of July fireworks over the Delta, and recently attended the Rivertown Wine Walk & Artisan Faire this last May.
My family has lived in the San Francisco Bay Area for 3 generations. My father was an Independent Insurance Agent, and his office was in San Carlos. After school I would sit for hours in his office, doing office-type jobs, such as answering the phones, taking messages, organizing paperwork, typing and using the Copy machine. I learned professionalism, courtesy, and posess [sic] a high work ethic.
In 1995 we moved the family Insurance office from San Carlos to my home in Antioch. I was in business here until I sold the agency in 2013 to pursue other opportunities. Since then, I have been a Premises Technician for AT&T. My job duties have been going into peoples’ homes and installing High-speed Internet and climbing telephone poles to upgrade the telephone lines to Fiber.
I was also an active member in our Union, CWA District 9, Local 9417. Since 2013 I have been our garage’s Union Representative, and in 2019 was elected to serve on our Local’s Executive Board. My duties included attending all meetings, coordinating and assisting in our Local Elections, and approving budgets and company records.
I am Detail-oriented, as I love desk work. I excel at inputting data on computers, paperwork, and following up to make sure everything gets done and gets filed correctly. I am also very adept at dealing with the public, as my previous jobs involved face-to-face interactions.
I am very proud of my city and I would be thrilled to work with the City Administrators and help to contribute to the success of my city of Antioch. I believe that I would be very successful as a City Clerk.”
About the City Clerk’s Office
The City Clerk is the official keeper of the municipal records and is sometimes referred to as the historian of the community. City Clerk responsibilities include:
Acting as the official custodian of records for the City and is responsible for all City Council agendas, minutes, ordinances, resolutions, and legal publications
Coordinating Fair Political Practices Commission filings including the Statement of Economic Interests and Campaign Disclosures
Acting as the service agent for the City regarding claims, subpoenas, and summons
Overseeing the City’s records management, legislative history, bids, contracts, archives, election activities, and board/commission/committee programs
Communications directed to the City, its legislative bodies, and their members (i.e., City Council, Planning Commission) or City staff are public records and are subject to disclosure pursuant to the California Public Records Act and Brown Act unless exempt from disclosure under the applicable law.
The City Clerk’s Office is located on the Third Floor of City Hall at 200 H Street, Antioch, Monday–Friday, between 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM. For more information email cityclerk@antiochca.gov or call (925) 779-7009.
Renderings of the proposed Slatten Ranch Townhomes (above) and Wildflower Station Townhomes (below). Source: DeNova Homes
DeNova Homes proposes129-unit Slatten Ranch Townhomes Project, next to J.C. Penney store and 159-unit Wildflower Station Townhomes 2 Multifamily Residential Project on Hillcrest Avenue near Deer Valley Road
By Allen D. Payton
During their regular meeting beginning at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2025, the Antioch City Council will consider approving two new housing projects proposed by developer DeNova Homes whose co-founder and vice-president son accused of allegedly bribing a council member believed to be former Mayor Lamar Hernandez-Thorpe.
As previously reported, on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California announced an indictment for alleged bribery of an Antioch Councilmember by the father and son, former and current, leaders of the Concord-based company.
While the project applicant is Kathryn Watt, with DeNova Homes Inc., Dave Sanson is CEO Emeritus and a Co-Founder of the company, with his wife, and their son Trent is the company’s Vice President for Land Acquisition and Entitlements. Dave’s attorney Winston Chan claims his client had nothing to do with the alleged bribery, writing, “We are confident the facts will show that Dave is innocent, and that he was unfairly targeted.”
According to the company’s Chief Legal Officer, Dana Tsubota, “While Mr. (Dave) Sanson has been an important figure in the company’s history, he semi-retired in 2020 when he moved to Montana and he is no longer involved in the leadership or daily operations.”
In the indictment, the terms “he” and “him” are used to describe the unnamed councilmember, which could refer to either former Mayor Lamar Hernandez-Thorpe or former Councilman Mike Barbanica.
The alleged bribe was related to a previous project in Antioch, known as Aviano, a multi-phase, 533-unit single-family home residential development in the Sand Creek area on the south side of the city.
Proposed Slatten Ranch Townhome Project Site Map. Source: DeNova Homes
Slatten Ranch Townhomes Project
The first DeNova Homes project the Council will consider Tuesday night is the 129-unit Slatten Ranch Townhome Condominium Project. The application includes a Vesting Tentative Subdivision Map for 17 residential lots for the 17 condominium buildings.
According to the City staff report for the agenda item, #4, the proposed 6.41-acre vacant project site is located north of Wicklow Way, east of Slatten Ranch Road, and west of Empire Avenue. The project site is located within the East Lone Tree Specific Plan (ELTSP), is designated as East Lone Tree Specific Plan Focus Area in the City of Antioch General Plan and the site is zoned
High Density Residential District (R-25) allowing for the development of multifamily housing with a density of 20 to 25 dwelling units (du)/acre.
Although the land was part of 200 acres designated by the City Council in 1998 for employment and commercial and development purposes, in February of 2023, the City of Antioch adopted the Housing Element EIR, which analyzed adoption and implementation of the City’s Sixth Cycle Housing Element Update (2023-2031), including the adoption and implementation of rezoning and General Plan amendments to accommodate the City’s Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA), requiring 3,016 more housing units in Antioch between 2023 and 2031.
Each residential unit would include a two-car garage, and the centrally located play area would include 19 additional vehicle parking spaces. The 129 residential units would consist of a mix of two- and three-bedrooms units, ranging in size from 1,293 to 1,791 square feet.
Slatten Ranch Townhome Development Plan. Source: DeNova Homes
The Row Townhome buildings include entryways with covered porches at the front elevations and garages at the rear elevations. The Back-to-Back (B2B) Townhome buildings will include entryways with covered porches and garages at both the front and rear elevations. Each building would have either five, six, eight or 10 units. Three Row Townhome floorplan types would be offered with two- and three-bedrooms, ranging in size from 1,432 to 1,791 square feet. Two B2B floorplan types would be offered with two- and three-bedrooms ranging in size from 1,293 to 1,414 square feet.
The proposed project would include a total of 1.77 acres of landscaping and open space, consisting of a 0.34-acre open play area, dog park, and open space for bio retention.
The project was submitted in 2023 as a Preliminary Housing Application under SB330 (The Housing Crisis Act of 2019). Through the Preliminary Application process put in place under SB 330, housing developments may only be subject to the ordinances and objective standards in effect at the time when a completed Preliminary Application is submitted.
Proposed Wildflower Station Townhomes 2 Project Site Map. Source: DeNova Homes
Wildflower Station Townhomes 2
The second DeNova Homes project the Council will consider is a 159-unit townhome-style condominium development, known as Wildflower Station Townhomes 2 Multifamily Residential Project. It is planned for the four-parcel, 10.35 acre vacant property near the intersection of Hillcrest Avenue and Deer Valley Road and bordered by Wildflower Drive to the east and the road next to the KFC restaurant in the Hillcrest Crossroads shopping center which also serves the existing condo development.
According to the City staff report for the agenda item, #5, the proposed project consists of a Vesting Tentative Subdivision Map to create 19 residential lots for 19 three-story buildings, containing 159 new townhome condominiums in two different building styles: “back-to-back” and row townhome-style. Both styles of townhomes include individual one-car or two-car garages with the living areas primarily on the second and third levels above the garage parking.
The proposed project would include a total of 2.8 acres of landscaping and open space, consisting of two open play areas and open space for bioretention. The play areas would include 25 additional parking spaces with another 57 surplus shared parking spaces with the adjacent Wildflower Station development. The 159 residential units would consist of a mix of two- and three-bedrooms units, ranging in size from 1,135 to 1,381 square feet.
Rendering of proposed Wildflower Station Back-Back Townhomes. Source: DeNova Homes
The project site was part of the larger 23-acre Wildflower Station project that includes 22 single family homes (on the ridgeline above), the 98-condominium stacked flat homes immediately adjacent and planned commercial development that was entitled in 2018. The single-family homes and condos were built, but the commercial parcels along Hillcrest Avenue (the current project site) weren’t and the land sat undeveloped.
In 2023, the City Council revised the General Plan and rezoned the four parcels to High Density Residential District (R-25). The proposed project would result in a density of approximately 20 du/ac.
The project was also submitted in 2023 as a Preliminary Housing Application under SB330.
Meeting Information
The Council’s regular meeting will be preceded by a Closed Session meeting beginning at 4:00 p.m. during which the Council will consider the use of the City-owned parking lot at the north end of G Street by developer Sean McCauley, owner of the adjacent property at 113 G Street, which is planned to be a restaurant. (See related article) That will be followed by a Special Meeting at 5:30 p.m. to appoint a new City Clerk. (See related article)
The meetings will be held in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 200 H Street, in Antioch’s historic, downtown Rivertown. They can also be viewed via livestream on the City’s website and the City’s YouTube Channel, on Comcast Cable Channel 24 or AT&T U-verse Channel 99.
Efforts to reach media representatives in the U.S. Attorney’s Office to verify if the investigation is ongoing or if settled, the disposition of the case were unsuccessful prior to publication time. Please check back later for any updates to this report.
Rendering of proposed G Street restaurant dining deck and City parking lot with view of river. Source: Sean McCauley Investments
Just like the deck at Monica’s Riverview; similar to previous lease to Sean McCauleyof City-owned land next to Smith’s Landing for new patio
Will also discuss two ongoing lawsuits
By Allen D. Payton
During a Closed Session meeting beginning at 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2025, the Antioch City Council will consider the use of the City-owned parking lot at the north end of G Street by Sean McCauley, owner of the adjacent property at 113 G Street, which is planned to be a restaurant. The area for the proposed outdoor dining deck, like the one he built at Monica’s Riverview, is approximately 1,275 square feet.
Renderings of the Smith’s Landing Patio. Source: Sean McCauley Investments
Smith’s Landing Patio
Previously, the Council approved the rental of land near the Antioch Marina adjacent to Smith’s Landing Seafood Grill to McCauley for an outdoor dining patio for that restaurant. It is also approximately 1,300 square feet in size.
Renderings of the Smith’s Landing Patio and marina point concept with beach umbrellas and seating that are not included. Source: Sean McCauley Investments
He said the “concept for the Smith’s Landing Patio took over three years to approve and plans were submitted for permits earlier this month. We are excited about it and wanted to share it with the public.”
“We are planning to open the patio in spring of 2026,” McCauley added.
Rendering of proposed G Street restaurant dining deck. Source: Sean McCauley Investments
G Street Parking Lot Needs Improving
“It will cost about $100,000 to improve the G Street parking lot,” he shared. The costs of the deck are separate and part of the restaurant improvements.
“There will still be parking there,” McCauley explained. “We’re only taking five stalls.”
The council previously rejected his proposal during their meeting on Aug. 9, 2025, he said.
Interim City Attorney Derek Cole reported out from that Closed Session meeting simply that “Direction was given to the City’s negotiators.”
Will Discuss Two Lawsuits
The Council will also discuss two lawsuits during the Closed Session meeting, including one by the California Resources Pipeline Corporation v. City of Antioch regarding use of the natural gas pipeline which was blocked by the previous council majority. The case is being heard in Superior Court in Contra Costa County. The other, a federal lawsuit against the City, six cops and former police chiefs, was brought by murder suspect Trent Allen and others. The case is labeled Trent Allen, et al. v. City of Antioch, et al., and is being heard in U.S. District Court Northern District of California.
Public Comment will be received on all three meeting agenda items before the Council adjourns into Closed Session. That meeting will be followed by a Special Meeting at 5:30 p.m. to appoint a new City Clerk and the Council’s regular meeting at 7:00 p.m. The meetings will be held in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 200 H Street, in Antioch’s historic, downtown Rivertown. They can also be viewed via livestream on the City’s website and the City’s YouTube Channel, on Comcast Cable Channel 24 or AT&T U-verse Channel 99.
Will interview former councilwoman, former county supervisor’s chief of staff, AT&T technician, parking enforcement officer and barber
By Allen D. Payton
During a special meeting beginning at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday night, Sept. 23, 2025, the Antioch City Council will interview five applicants and appoint one to fill the vacant City Clerk position for a little more than one year. An election will be held in November 2026 to fill the remaining two of the four-year term.
As previously reported, on July 30, 2025, City Clerk Melissa Rhodes, elected last November, submitted her written resignation effective immediately. At its meeting of August 12, 2025, the City Council directed that the vacancy be filled by appointment rather than by special election. State law requires that the appointment be made within 60 days of the vacancy, or no later than September 30, 2025. Then during it’s Aug. 26th meeting, the Council adopted the appointment process with applications due Thursday, September 11.
According to the City staff report for the agenda item #SM-1, a total of 14 Antioch voters picked up the application packet; two withdrew. As of the close of the application period, the City received five applications…submitted by (in alphabetical order by last name):
• Michael J. Mandy, an AT&T Premises Technician and 31-year Antioch resident;
• Vincent Manuel, the former Chief of Staff, Contra Costa County Supervisor Federal Glover, who worked for four months as an Administrative Analyst in the Antioch City Clerk’s Office and is a 35-year Antioch resident. He also has served on the Antioch Planning Commission, as Chair of the Antioch Police Crime Prevention Commission and on the Antioch Board of Administrative Appeals.
• Eric Bao Xuan Nguyen, a Parking Enforcement Officer and six-year Antioch resident;
• Lori Ogorchock, former three-term Antioch Councilwoman, a retired, self-employed real estate agent, and 54-year Antioch resident; and
• Jerome Terrell, a barber and 12-year Antioch resident.
Staff is recommending that the City Council take the following action to fill the City Clerk vacancy:
1. Receive applicant presentations (up to five minutes). Each applicant will be called up (in alphabetical order) and given the opportunity to speak.
2. Once each applicant has spoken, the applicant will be escorted to the HR interview room.
3. Applicants will be called back into the chamber in alphabetical order to take
questions from the Council.
4. Each councilmember will ask one question, as indicated below.
5. After the conclusion of Council questions, public comment will be opened.
6. Upon conclusion of public comment, the Council will deliberate and will select a candidate upon motion approved by a simple majority.
7. The City Council will adopt the resolution appointing [name of appointee] as City Clerk through November 2026.
Proposed Interview Questions
Staff is suggesting is that, during the interviews, each Councilmember and the Mayor ask one question of each candidate. The following are five questions the City Council may consider asking:
• How does the applicant view the role of City Clerk?
• What knowledge does the applicant have of computer systems and electronic platforms that might be used in the City Clerk position?
• What is the specific role of the City Clerk under the Brown Act, California Government Code, and California Elections Code?
• How would the applicant balance outside interests, including other civic, community, and political interests, with their work as City Clerk?
• What assurance can the applicant provide that they will timely carry out their duties for the remainder of the term?
Following this question-and-answer period, the City Council should then open the matter for public comment. Upon the conclusion of public comment, the matter shall be before the City Council for its consideration and a vote.
The special meeting will be preceded by a Closed Session meeting at 4:00 p.m. and followed by the regular meeting at 7:00 p.m. The meetings will be held in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 200 H Street, in Antioch’s historic, downtown Rivertown. They can also be viewed via livestream on the City’s website and the City’s YouTube Channel, on Comcast Cable Channel 24 or AT&T U-verse Channel 99.
On Monday, Sept. 22, 2025, at 7:30 AM the Antioch City Council will hold a special, closed session meeting on the recruitment of a permanent City Attorney. The new hire will replace current Interim City Attorney Derek Cole who has been serving in the position since Thomas L. Smith resigned the position in January, following a two-and-a-half hour Closed Session meeting by the council.
The meeting will begin in the Council Chambers at 200 H Street in Antioch’s downtown Rivertown and public comments will be heard before the Council adjourns to closed session. The Council will later return, and Cole will publicly state any reportable action.
