By Allen Payton

During the Tuesday, Jan. 12, 2021 meeting, the Antioch City Council approved one more cannabis business, tabled approval of another due to opposition from neighboring businesses over parking, security.

Approve Another Cannabis Business

The council unanimously approved the Delta Family Pharms cannabis cultivation operation. It will be located next to and operated by the Delta Dispensary on W. 10th Street. It will have 24-7 armed security.

“I’m delighted that Councilman Ogorchock has come a long way in embracing cannabis,” Mayor Lamar Thorpe exclaimed

“If you remember, Mr. Mayor, I supported this dispensary when it first came before us,” she responded.

“This is record breaking, I believe,” Thorpe retorted.

Table Other Cannabis Business on 4-0-1 Vote

The council then voted to table and send back to the Planning Division the Culture Club Cannabis Dispensary on Verne Roberts Circle, on the backside of Costco. The owner, High Horizons Group, asked to sell paraphernalia including vape pens and related products.

One of the owners, who called it the Culture Cannabis Club Dispensary, spoke briefly about the proposed business.

During public comments, Jay Jeremy, who owns The Print Club in one of the retail spaces at the front of the parcel, spoke against the business, because the lack of parking and security.

“I’m deeply concerned. We only heard about this last night, so we’ve had little time to prepare. We were kind of shocked that a dispensary is going in,” he said. “Regarding the parking spots there’s just not enough room. I’m a little bit concerned with the security. I don’t know what kind of security we’re going to have. It just doesn’t seem like the right location. I’m not opposed to a cannabis business. But it’s just not the right location.”

“I’m not light industrial, I’m actually retail,” Jeremy continued. “I have three employees who drive to work. If I’m only allowed three spots, then I won’t have any room for my customers. I believe that a lot of this information that was submitted to the city is definitely outdated.

This definitely needs two exits. There’s only one way in,” he stated. “There’s also 400 storage units in the back. So, that means there are 400 people who have access to the back.”

The next speaker, Joe O’Brien said he owns “an adjacent business, next door. Several things concern me. If there are going to be armed guards…there are thin, cheap rock walls in between. Where does that put me, my customers, or family members who visit me?”

“I also do breathalizers for the State of California for DUI’s,” he shared. “I haven’t been able to get a hold of mandatory actions at DMV if they’re opposed to this. We found out, yesterday in an article. I’ve never met the applicant. He’s never come and introduced himself. If they’re going to be a good neighbor, you’d think they’d introduce themselves. None of us was notified of this.”

“If you’re going to sell alcohol in the State of California you have to post a notice for 60 days before. It makes no sense that if you’re going to sell cannabis they don’t have to do the same,” O’Brien concluded.

Councilman Mike Barbanica, to the applicant, “how many people at a time do you expect…to be in your business. You have four neighbors there.

“Our estimate on a daily basis is going to be 75 to 100 total customers that come through the doors,” the applicant said. “Those come in groups. So, it’s not 100 cars.”

“We also have an agreement with the storage spaces who is the owner of the property for units in the back for parking,” he added.

“We’re offering employees a stipend to use ride share,” he continued.

“There’s actually street parking available on Verne Roberts Circle,” he shared.

“We will have 24-7, armed security,” he continued. “The loading and unloading will be in the rear area which is safer.”

Ogorchock was the first council member to speak saying, “I too have concerns about the parking. It’s right next door to Costco. So, that curve is a very busy curve, right there. The parking along Verne Roberts Circle is actually being used by the cars for the employees in the dealerships, further up.”

She asked if there will be two, and not just one, armed security guard. City Planning Manager Alexis Morris confirmed there will be two.

“I have a major concern about where it’s at,” Ogorchock added. “There are other businesses there…so, it is a very busy parking lot.”

“There is still one more stop in the process…the operating agreement. So, the doors won’t open until the operating agreement is solved,” Thorpe said.

“Yesterday, I went out to this location,” Barbanica shared. “We’re in the middle of COVID and there were several spots taken. What happens when all the spaces are filled with businesses?”

“If there are 400 people who have access to the storage facility and we’re loading cannabis in the back, then I have concerns about the security,” he added.

“This can still be vetted in the operating agreement process,” Mayor Pro Tem Monica Wilson said, directing her comments to City Attorney Thomas Smith.

“You can also table the matter and send it back to the Planning Division,” he responded.

“I believe that would be the best course of action,” Wilson said.

“Mr. Julian, there seems to be an interest in you speaking with your neighbors,” Thorpe said.

“I’m for tabling it, indefinitely,” Ogorchock then said. “I don’t see this as a viable spot for this business.”

She was concerned that if the applicant buys the building, then gets to the

Wilson then made a motion to table indefinitely and send the matter back to the Planning Division

“Everything Councilwoman Ogorchock said I share,” Thorpe said.

Ogorchock then seconded the motion.

The motion passed 4-0-1 with Councilwoman Tamisha Torres-Walker abstaining. Asked during a break in the meeting, why she abstained, Torres-Walker did not respond.

 

Dear Council Members,

I have watched the FB live videos from Ms. Torres-Walker and Mr. Thorpe.  I noticed that you both promote and are seeking “accountability” from the police department regarding the police interaction with Ms. Torres-Walker’s children (23-year-old and 13-year-old sons).  Your demand for accountability revolves around alleged racial bias, alleged police misconduct and excessive force by the Antioch Police.

The word “Accountable” is defined as: an obligation or willingness to accept responsibility or to account for one’s actions.

I agree that all parents have an obligation to protect their children.  We also have an obligation to model and teach accountability.  As an adult we have to hold ourselves accountable and admit our own wrong doings.  We must also hold our children accountable for their actions.

As City leaders, you are held to a higher standard.  You are “accountable” to your community!  You are expected to behave in a professional manner, a manner that does not bring disrepute to our city and does not create a division amongst city offices and the community.  Your personal beliefs and personal agendas are not to interfere with your job as a council member.  As elected officials; you took an oath to “bear true faith and allegiance to the United States and the Constitution of the State of California”, and you agreed to discharge your duties faithfully.

Your videos have displayed a blatant disregard of your oath and obligation to our community.  Ms. Torres-Walker renounced her position as a council member, she did not uphold her oath and she behaved in an unprofessional manner while spewing her discord toward our city government and community.  Ms. Torres-Walker’s threats of violence toward our police officers, threat to organize protests against our police department and threats of a potential lawsuit are inexcusable.  Ms. Torres-Walker’s rant and rhetoric serve only to deflect her accountability (along with the accountability of her children) and blame the police for the unlawful behavior of her “23- and 13-year-old children.”

Mr. Thorpe, your attempt to downplay, defend and excuse Ms. Torres-Walker’s rhetoric is inexcusable.  The fact that a council member under your leadership has behaved in such a horrific and divisive manner reflects poorly upon you and your leadership abilities.

As a longtime community member and business owner, I am asking that you publicly condemn Ms. Torres-Walker’s behavior/threats and that you ensure our community that her behavior or similar behavior by anyone will not be tolerated.

Ms. Torres-Walker admitted she allowed her 13-year-old (an unlicensed driver) to drive an off-road quad runner on a public roadway.  This is a clear violation of Vehicle code 12500 (a) which states: “a person may not drive a motor vehicle upon a highway, unless the person holds a valid driver’s license issued under this code.”  California Penal Code Section 273 (a) states: “Any person who willfully causes or permits that a child be placed in a situation where his or her person or health is endangered, shall be punished by imprisonment in a county jail not exceeding one year, or in a state prison for two, four or six years.” The discussions this evening would not be occurring had Ms. Torres-Walker and her 23-year-old child (who video recorded himself driving his off-road motorcycle in a reckless manner and endangered/abandoned his 13-year-old brother while evading the police on a public roadway) followed the law.

Mr. Thorpe, if you truly want accountability and unity within our community, then you must start by holding Ms. Torres-Walker accountable for her actions and decisions that led the Antioch Police Officers to come in contact with her children who were unlawfully operating motor vehicles on public roadways and subsequently decided to initiate a vehicle pursuit when the police arrived.  You must also hold Ms. Torres-Walker accountable for spewing hateful, divisive remarks, unprofessional behavior and threats of violence toward our police officers and community.  Your decision to justify Ms. Torres-Walker’s efforts to demonize our police department and divide our community is unacceptable!  Your decision to defend poor behavior has created a further division amongst community members.

This incident occurred while you were vacationing out of the country, during a pandemic that has our nation, state, county and city under strict COVID pandemic restrictions.  Your justifications of Ms. Torres-Walker’s poor decisions and your actions of leaving the country have given the impression that you believe you are “above the law.”

A true leader will always lead by example and will not excuse poor behavior.    Accountability is paramount and it builds trust and unity.  It is my hope that you will reflect upon your decision to support Ms. Torres-Walker’s poor behavior, you will hold yourself accountable and that you will make an effort to correct the division you created.

Everyone makes mistakes, but only a person with integrity owns up to them!

Jesse Zuniga Jr.

Community Member since 1989 and Antioch Business Owner since 2002

 

1/12/21 UPDATE: Participation limited to only 75 individuals who either live or work in Antioch and in only one of three “Dialogues”, public comments also limited since not regular council meetings

The Antioch community is invited to participate in a series of discussions entitled “Bridging the Gap” with the goal of increasing understanding of how to address racial injustice and improve police-community relations. They will be hosted by CNA, a non-profit 501(c)(3) with professional experience assisting public agencies in the realm of public safety services. Those who live or work in Antioch are invited to register for one virtual discussion session from the list below.

Dialogue 1: Police Oversight, Accountability, and Transparency

Date:  Tuesday, January 19th

Time: 5:30 – 7:00 pm

Discussion will focus on methods of police oversight, the police conduct complaint and discipline process, and practices that can increase police transparency.

Register here.

Dialogue 2: Racial Disparities in Policing

Date:  Saturday, February 6th

Time: 10:00 – 11:30 am

Discussion will focus on the disparate impact of police practices – such as recruitment and training, and use of force – on communities of color.

Register here.

Dialogue 3: Police-Community Engagement

Date:  Thursday, February 18th

Time: 10:00 – 11:30 am

Discussion will focus on how to improve the ways in which the police interact with young people and vulnerable communities, how police approach crime prevention, and how communities impact policing priorities.

Register here.

Questions About Meetings

The following questions were sent to Mayor Lamar Thorpe, City Manager Ron Bernal and City Attorney Thomas Smith, City Clerk Ellie Householder and Assistant City Manager Rosanna Bayon Moore and the City’s Public Information Officer, Rolando Bonilla provided answers.If I understand that correctly, each Antioch resident gets to register for and participate in only one of the three different Bridge the Gap discussions/Dialogues that have different topics. Is that correct?

Q. If I understand that correctly, each Antioch resident gets to register for and participate in only one of the three different Bridge the Gap discussions/Dialogues that have different topics. Is that correct?

A. “Yes. On December 15th, at the City Council meeting, the format for the Bridging the Gap roundtable discussions was held by the Council.”

Q.  Does that mean each resident who wishes to participate only gets to offer a public comment during one of the forums, each of which have different topics? Or can each person who wants submit a public comment during each, but only receive the resource materials for one? Will everyone be able to watch all three?

A. “Thebulk of the meeting times is intendedfor small, facilitated breakout sessions in which intimate discussions about the select topic will occur,” he explained.

Q. Aren’t they going to be public meetings and therefore must allow any and all residents to participate and offer public comments before or after the meeting, as well as on the agendized topic?

A. “It is public in that members of the public can participate, and the larger group convening will be publicly broadcast, but not public in the same way as a City Council meeting. Due to that, those requirements do not apply.”

Q. Also, why are you holding the first one at 5:30 p.m. on a Tuesday when some residents who still are working at jobs outside of the city will still be in the commute at that time?

A. “A pre-eventsurvey was conducted and advertised across several City platforms. Meeting days and times were selected based on the input of respondents.”

Q. Are you trying to limit public participation to fit within your timeframes for each?

A. “No.”

Q. You do recognize limiting each to just 90 minutes on such volatile, controversial topics is not enough time, right?

A. “Your opinion.”

However, Councilwoman Tamisha Torres-Walker doesn’t isn’t waiting for the forums to occur. In a Friday post on her District 1 City Council Facebook page she wrote, “Show up for police reform in Antioch. Tuesday, January 12, 2021 7 PM

We need to address the lack of accountability and transparency of the Antioch Police Department that leads to bias policing, excessive use of force, and harassment in the City of Antioch.

We can’t forget about George Floyd, Tamir rice Freddie Gray, Brianna Taylor, Ahmad Albury, Eric Garner, Jacob blake [sic], Devin Carter, Sandra Bland and so many more.

Ask that the Antioch City Council take action now. Your voice matters

1. Body-worn cameras on every officer.
2. A dashcam in every police car.
3. Independent investigations into civilian complaints regarding the use of force, harassment, and misconduct.
4. The establishment of a civilian police oversight body.”

Allen Payton contributed to this report.

“I will be hiring an outside, independent investigator to conduct the investigation.” – Antioch Police Chief T Brooks

By Allen Payton

On Tuesday, Dec. 29, 2020 two boys were stopped by Antioch Police for riding a quad and dirt bike on city streets. The quad was seen by this reporter pulled over in the 1900 block of A Street, facing south in the right, northbound lane. Their mother is new Councilmember Tamisha Torres-Walker who represents District 1.

She posted a nine-minute, tearful, profanity-laced Live video on one of her Facebook pages, later that day, calling the Antioch Police “motherf—-rs” and “a—holes”, and complaining they chased down her sons, side swiped them, bumped the quad and pulled out their tazers, but didn’t use them. Tores-Walker said she told the police officers “you don’t know who I am” but claims she said that because she doesn’t care that she’s a council member.

“I don’t care. I don’t care. Like, when I say ‘you don’t know who I am’ you better believe that I’m saying I don’t give a f—- about being a city council member. That’s what I’m saying,” she said in the video. “So, when I say ‘you don’t know who I am’ I’m not trying to say ‘I’m a city council member.’ What I’m trying to say is I don’t give a f— about being a city council member. That’s what I’m trying to say, that you don’t know me about my kids.”

“I fixing to get off of this Live, right now,” Torres-Walker continued with a chuckle. “I’m so mad, right now. I’m not scared enough to back down from this sh–. My son is all f—ed up, right now, because he didn’t know what y’all was going to do and this is a child. So, yes, I will be filing a complaint.”

“This sh– is just out of line,” she concluded.

The video has since been removed from her Facebook page. But EastCountyToday.net was able to capture and post it on YouTube. The video can be viewed, here. (Warning: video contains graphic language)

In the video, Torres-Walker mentions her two sons who were “out here having fun” including one who is 13 years old. The age of her other son was not shared. Efforts to reach her for more details and to answer questions were unsuccessful prior to publication time, including if they live on or near A Street and if she’s aware it’s illegal to ride dirt bikes and quads on city streets.

Chief Brooks Responds

In response to questions about the incident and what the Antioch Police Department had to say about it and will do, Chief T Brooks offered the following, official response: “I am aware of the video and the incident in question. I take these allegations very seriously and have initiated an investigation into the matter. In order to ensure a fair, impartial, and objective process is completed, I will be hiring an outside, independent investigator to conduct the investigation.”

In addition, an APD sergeant said he expected a press release about the incident to be issued, soon.

Councilmembers Asked About Possible Censure

Finally, immediately prior to publication, Mayor Lamar Thorpe, Mayor Pro Tem Monica Wilson and Council Members Lori Ogorchock and Mike Barbanica were asked if any of them will consider censuring Walker for her comments, as Antioch residents have been asking on social media. That’s especially in light of Wilson’s successful effort to not merely censure former Planning Commission Chair Kenny Turnage, but her, Thorpe’s and Ogorchock’s votes to remove him for his controversial comments about COVID-19 on Facebook, earlier this year.

Please check back later for updates to this report.

All six positions are ready to be filled, today; Questions to both elected officials and city staff ignored

Desalination plant budget increase by $50 million and contract on agenda

Discussion on roundtable meetings on racial injustice and police-community relations also on agenda

By Allen Payton

During the first and special meeting of the new Antioch City Council, tonight, Tuesday, December 15, at 6:00 p.m., they will consider rescinding the vote by the previous council of accepting a federal grant to help fund six police officers on Antioch middle and high school campuses. The three-year, $750,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Justice COPS (Community Oriented Policing Services) Hiring Program, along with matching funds from the Antioch School District, approved by the school board, earlier this year, would pay for the officer. (See related article, here)

The issue was a matter of controversy when the school board considered voting on the matching funds, with the first meeting being interrupted by a protest, including protesters pounding on the windows and door, and even breaking into the school district offices during the meeting. That meeting was abruptly ended and continued a few days later during which the SRO’s were approved on a 3-2 vote. (See related articles, here, here and here)

In an email sent Sunday night to Mayor Lamar Thorpe he was asked, “while you voted against accepting the grant, during the campaign you repeatedly stated you are not for defunding police. Yet, if you now vote to rescind the approved $750,000 grant to help pay for six police officers on Antioch middle and high school campuses, aren’t you in effect voting to defund police?” He did not respond prior to publication time.

In addition, during a campaign interview Walker said, “Right now, everyone deserves quality policing services. If we are always in opposition…it’s because we’re not talking to each other” referring to the police and community. She was asked since the intent of the SRO’s is to create community policing on the campuses, and develop communication and relationships between Antioch police officers and students, why would she not want the SRO’s on the campuses? Walker did not respond.

Questions About Who Can Place the Item On Agenda and Others Go Unanswered

Additional questions were emailed Sunday night to City Attorney Thomas Smith, City Clerk Ellie Householder and City Manager Ron Bernal including how does it work within both state law and Robert’s Rules of Order for a council member to bring back something for reconsideration that was already passed/approved/adopted by the council?

If a motion fails, it takes one of those who voted for the motion to bring back the item for reconsideration. They were all asked does the same apply to an item that was approved? Who requested the item to be placed on Tuesday’s agenda? Was it Mayor Thorpe and/or another council member? Finally, what is the deadline for the city to rescind the funds?

Instead of answering the questions, on Monday morning, Householder referred them to the city’s Public Information Officer (PIO) Rolando Bonilla writing, “I’m CC’ing the City’s PIO, Rolando, to this email. He can address your questions.”

The same questions were sent again to the same four plus Thorpe, Monday night. But still no response.

Bonilla has not responded to the questions either in the 24 hours since he received them.

However, it was learned Tuesday morning from an official who chose to remain anonymous, that it was Thorpe who requested the item be placed on the agenda.

The question remains, if it requires someone who voted for the motion to bring it back for reconsideration, that could only be Councilwoman Lori Ogorchock, because she’s the only remaining council member who voted for the grant, along with former Mayor Sean Wright and former Mayor Pro Tem Joy Motts, both of whom lost their bids for re-election.

Possible Open Meeting Law Violations

In  addition, it has been alleged that the state’s Brown Act open meeting law has been violated by both Mayor Lamar Thorpe and District 1 Councilwoman Tamisha Walker, for having serial meetings, which means speaking with more than one other council member about an agenda item before it’s discussed in public. It’s alleged that Thorpe spoke to both Walker and District 2 Councilman Mike Barbanica. Walker is accused of also speaking to District 3 Councilwoman Lori Ogorchock, after she spoke with Thorpe.

Although Thorpe, along with Mayor Pro Tem Monica Wilson voted against the council’s approval of the grant also on a 3-2 vote, he claimed repeatedly during his recent campaign that he was not for defunding police. Asked if a vote to rescind was, in effect, defunding police he responded,

Asked if he had spoken to both Walker and Barbanica about the SRO’s before tonight’s meeting, Thorpe did not respond to multiple attempts to contact him for this report.

When asked if she spoke with both Thorpe and Ogorchock about the agenda items Walker responded, “I took the oath of office December 7th and have not talked to anyone concerning this or any matter before the council.”

However, the Brown Act applies to candidates who were elected beginning on Election Night. So, a follow up question was asked if Walker had spoken to any other council member about the SRO’s since Election Night. She did not respond as of publication time.

An attempt to reach Ogorchock, asking if she had spoken to Walker about rescinding the grant for the SRO’s, but she too did not respond as of publication time. Attempt to reach Barbanica, asking if he had spoken to Thorpe about rescinding the grant for the SRO’s, were unsuccessful before publication time.

Hiring Process Has Already Started, All Six Positions Could Be Filled, Today

The hiring process for the six SRO’s has begun, according to Antioch Police Chief T Brooks. He was also asked if any of the grant money had been spent, yet, and if there is a deadline for rescinding the grant.

“We’ve already selected all six SRO’s, because they were all police officers with us, already,” he stated. “So, basically the grant is to hire additional positions. I am authorized 115 officers. With the grant, that would raise my sworn authorized to 121 because I would have had to create new positions for it. I would be able to pay for the new officers by using the grant money to offset the costs. The remaining portion is being split 50/50 with the school district.”

“They were interviewed and the interview process involved members of the police department, staff of the AUSD, teachers union and students,” Brooks explained. “They were all selected and chosen for which school they were going to work at. We were just waiting for the schools to open.”

“None of the grant money has been spent, yet,” he continued. Regarding the deadline he said he didn’t know.

“The grants actually became effective July 1, 2020. But we haven’t started drawing on them,” Brooks shared. “So, we would be able to extend it on the back end. The COPS office, due to the pandemic would allow us to apply for extensions for use of the funding.”

The department was authorized by the city council to overhire by five additional officers, earlier this year, for a total of 120 sworn officers who are currently on the force. Plus, there is one prospective officer currently in the academy. So, all six positions could be filled, today.

Desalination Plant Budget Increase & Construction Contract

In addition, the council will consider increasing the budget for the brackish water desalination plant by $50 million to a total of $110 million and approve the construction contract of $86,689,000.

Roundtable Meetings on Racial Injustice & Police-Community Relations

Plus, the council will be asked to provide direction to city staff on getting back on track the planned Bridging the Gap community roundtable discussions on racial injustice and police-community relations. The city has hired a consulting firm to help facilitate the virtual meetings. According to the staff report on the item, three roundtable discussions are proposed to begin early next year with the topics of 1) Police Oversight, Accountability and Transparency; 2) Racial Disparities in Policing; and 3) Police-Community Engagement.

Making a Public Comment

The item is number 4 on the council’s agenda. For those wanting to submit a public comment to be read during the meeting, click here or email cityclerk@ci.antioch.ca.us prior to the Mayor announcing that public comment is closed, and the comment will be read into the record at the meeting (350 words maximum, up to 3 minutes, at the discretion of the Mayor). IMPORTANT: Identify the agenda item in the subject line of your email (i.e. “Public Comments” or a specific Agenda Item number).

For those who want to call in and speak live during the public comment period on the item, click here. 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. The meeting can be viewed via livestream on the city’s website, or on Comcast/Xfinity local cable Channel 24 beginning at 6:00 p.m.

Please check back later to any updates to this report.

 

 

Council members propose new ideas for future agenda items

NOTE: Apologies for the poor quality of the photos/screenshots. The council meeting’s livestream feed was offline during the oaths of office and for the remainder of the meeting. Each shot is from a TV screen.

By Allen Payton

As the last action of their terms in office, Antioch Mayor Sean Wright and Mayor Pro Tem Joy Motts voted with the other three council members to unanimously approve a fifth cannabis business in the city, the Cookies dispensary. It will be located at 2515 W. 10th Street.

The council then voted to accept the results of the November election. Following comments by City Manager Ron Bernal, Wright, Motts, and thoughts shared by fellow council members, and other officials who represent Antioch, the new city officials were given their ceremonial oaths of office, having been sworn in during an in person process Tuesday afternoon. (See related article)

Wright, Motts Offer Their Farewells

“We just completed an historic election in the City of Antioch,” said City Manager Ron Bernal. “We had all seven offices up for election. There were 27 candidates that ran for city office. We went to by district elections.”

“Serving in public office is not for the fainted hearted. It takes a certain kind of selflessness,” he continued. “I want to personally thank outgoing Mayor Sean Wright and Mayor Pro Tem Motts for their service. Each of you bring special talents to the job you’ve been doing for the City of Antioch.”

“I want to thank you for the opportunity to serve you as electeds,” he added.

Outgoing City Clerk Arne Simonsen spoke next.

“To the citizens of Antioch…these eight years and the eight years on the city council have given me a love for Antioch. We have a good city,” he said. About the other officials Simonsen said, “They really want to serve the public. You’ve got to give them some good respect for what they do. Whatever they’re doing is for the best of all of Antioch.”

Motts spoke next reading from prepared remarks, saying, “It’s been my honor to serve the residents of Antioch for the last two years. Although my time on council was short, I’m proud of what we were able to accomplish. I will continue to be an advocate for the community. I am by no means going away. This council must make the revitalization of north Antioch one of its priorities. The continued downward spiral will only get much worse if there’s not a commitment.

“Shelter should be a human right,” she continued. “Homelessness is undermining our public health, our economic development.”

Motts said she would continue to push for a park and event center at the old lumber company lot in downtown.

Getting choked up, she thanked Bernal and City Attorney Thomas Smith, and each of her fellow council members and the work they did with her.

She then congratulated newly elected council members Tamisha Walker and Mike Barbanica.

“Being a council member has been difficult in these polarized times,” Motts said, and then thanked her family for their support.

“I didn’t spend the time to write anything out,” Mayor Sean Wright said, speaking next. “It’s been my honor to serve Antioch for the last four years. Mayor is just a position. Our ability to serve has nothing to do with our title. I will continue to serve this community. We have worked our butts off for four years. From redistricting, to cannabis to COVID…to police reform, it’s been non-stop.”

He then thanked Bernal for his friendship and for all he does for the community, getting choked up.

“I will do everything I can to support the new council,” Wright continued.

“Mayor Thorpe, congratulations. I say that will all sincerity,” he said. “I look forward to working behind you.”

Wright then congratulated Walker and Barbanica, and thanked Councilwomen Monica Wilson, Ogorchock and Motts, pointing out what he appreciated about each of them.

“Arne it’s been a pleasure working with you,” he continued. “With that, I just say thank you, the voters of Antioch, for giving me the pleasure of serving you.”

Bernal then showed the plaques that will be presented to Wright and Motts.

Outgoing City Treasurer Jim Davis was not able to attend the online meeting.

County Supervisor Diane Burgis and a staff representative of State Senator Steve Glazer thanked Wright, Motts and Simonsen, and congratulated the newly elected city officials.

Ogorchock, Wilson and Thorpe then offered their comments to Motts, Wright and Simonsen.

“You’re the best cheerleader for Antioch,” Ogorchock said to Wright. “I’m gonna miss you guys.”

“Definitely going to miss Jim Davis and Arne Simonsen,” Wilson said next. “Sean, I’m going to miss you. Joy Motts, what can I say? You’ve supported every idea I’ve brought to you. I’m not going to say I’m going to miss you. I’ll see you around. I thank all of you for your hard work and dedication to the City of Antioch and see you later.”

Thorpe spoke last saying, “I offer my congratulations to both Arne and Jim Davis for their years of service to the City of Antioch. Both of you literally created the opportunities for people like me to be here.”

“To Mayor Sean Wright, thank you for your four years of service,” he said. “I’m very appreciative of our time, together. Elections can be rocky. But the better thing to do is to move forward for the betterment of our community.”

“I always affectionately say Joy Motts brought me to the party,” he said. “You made me feel valued. You made me feel engaged. I love you for all that you’ve done for me. You’ve always had my back and I appreciate you for it.”

He then thanked Motts for her efforts on homelessness. “I appreciate you for it. I could go on for hours talking about the huge heart that you have for the community, for people who are not always heard. I appreciate you for that.”

New City Officials Take Ceremonial Oaths of Office

Having given each of the recently elected official their oath of office, earlier Tuesday afternoon, Simonsen then administered the ceremonial oaths of office to each of them, starting with Thorpe, then followed by Walker, Barbanica, Ogorchock, Wilson and Posada. As his last act as city clerk, Simonsen gave the ceremonial oath of office to his replacement, newly elected City Clerk Elizabeth “Ellie” Householder.

Council Reorganization

The council then considered which member hasn’t yet served as Mayor Pro Tem, previously and then who received the highest percentage of votes in the most recent election.

“The person who fits that criteria is Councilmember Wilson,” City Attorney Thomas Smith said.

“Mayor, council members, I gladly accept the nomination,” Wilson said.

On motion by Ogorchock, seconded by Barbanica, Wilson was voted in unanimously as the city’s new Mayor Pro Tem, However, the motion did not include the term, whether it be for one year or two.

Thorpe then nominated council members to various city and regional committees and with one vote for each member, all of his appointments were approved.

Two public comments including one by council watchdog Willie Mims concluded the meeting, as he congratulated the newly elected and re-elected members of the council. He said Walker surprised him because he did not think she was going to win.

“Your primary responsibilities are to the citizens of Antioch who elected you,” Mims said. “I hope that you as a council will live up to the task. Hopefully I will be able to attend some of your meetings. I’ll be watching you like I’m watching everyone else. Good luck.”

A special council meeting will be held next Tuesday night to deal with some important issues, Bernal announced.

Attorney Smith then congratulated each of the newly elected and re-elected officials.

Future Agenda Items Requested

For future agenda items, Ogorchock brought up the issue of offering the unused FEMA trailers to other cities and an urgency ordinance to establish a 15% cap for food delivery service companies to Antioch restaurants.

Thorpe asked council members to reach out to him, personally for future agenda items.

“Work with me so we can get them prioritized or else it’s just going to sit for six months,” he said. I will do my best to work with the city manager.”

“We do have the list, we can see the list,” Ogorchock said. “It’s in the city manager’s office. That is the policy.”

“That is the policy. I’m going to ask you to work with me directly so I can work with the city manager,” Thorpe stated.

Walker then suggested two future agenda items.

“One to address food insecurity,” she said. “Lucky’s is closing. Grocery Outlet closed down,” both located in District 1, which she represents.

“Also, I wanted to add the establishment a Human Rights and Social Equity Commission for the city,” Walker added.

“It’s best to talk to me to figure out the best way to bring it to the council for a vote,” Thorpe reiterated.

“City Attorney if we talk to…the mayor…that ties our hands in talking with other council members as it violates the Brown Act,” Ogorchock said.

Smith spoke of a serial violation by having three council members discuss a possible agenda item.

“It’s most likely permissible,” Smith said. “Specifically, mayor, city manager are responsible for setting the agenda.”

With that the council voted to adjourn with Walker saying, “I’ve never got out of a city council meeting this early,” with a chuckle, along with Thorpe.

 

Will repeat for public to see during council meeting, tonight.

By Allen Payton

Due to COVID-19, the newly elected City of Antioch officials took their oaths of office, today, Tuesday afternoon at City Hall in an unceremonious way without the public watching. The new mayor, council members, city clerk and treasurer will repeat their oaths in a public ceremony during tonight’s council meeting.

Mayor Lamar Thorpe took his oath of office, administered by outgoing City Clerk Arne Simonsen at 2:00 p.m. wearing a Bernie Sanders for President shirt. A video of his swearing in can be seen on Facebook. At the end of his oath of office he said, “Alright. This is it, people.”

Above the video Thorpe posted a simple message in English and partly in Spanish, his first language, “It’s official!!!! I’m the alcalde/mayor of Antioch!”

He will be hosting a Zoom public swearing-in ceremony this Friday at 10:00 a.m. online and also via Facebook live. New City Clerk Ellie Householder will serve as Mistress of Ceremonies.

Householder was the only other new official to post on social media about taking the oath of office, today. She posted a video on her campaign Facebook page. Simonsen administered the oath to his replacement.

Tamisha Walker, who was elected to the city council in District 1, posted on her Facebook page Monday about the ceremony occurring tonight at 8:00 p.m.

“Please join me tomorrow Tuesday December 8th at 8PM as I am sworn in virtually to as City Council Member for District 1. I officially start in January. However I have not forgotten the countless conversation I have had with residents and myself included about the neglect our community has endured.

We deserve better and I will be dedicated to make our community better and bring issues from before my time and work to resolve them during my term. I will be accountable and transparent to our community. My main goal is to engage our residents in government because government is in service to community.

Please join me virtually and submit your public comment. I want your voice to be heard and put on record for what our community needs. Join me and help us all be part of the right choice for change.”

On Tuesday afternoon, Walker posted a brief comment on her campaign Facebook page, “This morning I took the o[a]th of office. One down two to go. I would like to thank Arne for his years of service to Antioch l, for being kind, and informative. Hope to see you all tonight at 8pm. The live stream, can be accessed at https://www.antiochca.gov/gov…/city-council-meetings/live/”

She also posted a photo of herself, her signed Oath of Office form and the cover.

None of the other new city officials posted anything about taking their oaths today on their Facebook pages. However, when asked Councilman Mike Barbanica, elected in District 2 confirmed he was sworn in, today and said all the others were, as well.

“Tonight, they’re going to do it, again for everyone to see,” said Barbanica. “According to Arne, they had to be done in person, and then have us sign the documents.”

Asked if there are now seven council members, he said, “No. It does not take official affect until the council accepts the results of the election, first which will happen, tonight. Because of COVID everyone is having to adjust.”

Asked if he’s now the mayor, who will be running the meeting, Thorpe replied, “I’ll take over after we ratify the election,” reiterating Barbanica’s comment.

According to tonight’s (Tuesday, Dec. 8) council meeting agenda, outgoing Mayor Sean Wright and Mayor Pro Tem Joy Motts will have the opportunity to offer their parting comments. The new council members will then vote for which one will be Mayor Pro Tem for the following year and will be appointed to the various city and regional committees.

The meeting can be viewed beginning at 7:00 p.m. via livestream on the city’s website or on Comcast/Xfinity Channel 24.

During their Tuesday night, Nov. 24 meeting, the Antioch City Council approved the following resolution recognizing:

HOMELESSNESS AWARENESS MONTH

NOVEMBER 2020

WHEREAS, the month of November is recognized as Homelessness Awareness Month in the United States;

WHEREAS, the purpose of the proclamation is to educate the public and advocate with and on behalf of people experiencing homelessness about the many reasons people are homeless, including the shortage of affordable housing in Contra Costa County;

WHEREAS, there are over twenty organizations in Contra Costa committed to sheltering, providing supportive services, and/or basic resources to people experiencing homelessness;

WHEREAS, the City of Antioch recognizes that homelessness continues to be a serious problem for many individuals and families;

WHEREAS, the 2020 Point in Time Count identified 2,277 homeless individuals in Contra Costa County, with 52 percent experiencing a mental health condition, 50 percent with a substance use issue and 45 percent with a chronic health condition;

WHEREAS, 55 percent of the homeless population in Contra Costa County is between the ages of 25-54 and 33 percent of the population is aged 55 or older;

WHEREAS, 238 unhoused people were counted in the City of Antioch in Contra Costa County;

WHEREAS, a report by the California Housing Partnership found that Contra Costa County needs 33,477 more affordable rental homes to meet the needs of its lowest income renters.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, SEAN WRIGHT, Mayor of the City of Antioch, do hereby proclaim the month of November 2020, to be “Homelessness Awareness Month” and encourage all citizens to recognize that thousands of people in Contra Costa do not have housing and need support from citizens, and private/public non-profit service entities to address the myriad challenges of homelessness.

The council voted 5-0 to approve the resolution.