Following complaint from one grant recipient’s leader, mayor challenges panel’s decision; opens rift with City Manager who finds matter “concerning…alarming”; City Attorney issues opinion

“…none of the proposers are entitled to any City funds and every group was given the opportunity to be heard and was equally assessed in determining the awards.”   – City Manager Bessie Scott

Celebrate Antioch Foundation has history of working with, receiving funds from City for community events; was not going to receive funds, but Torres-Walker secured a small amount

Misinterpretations of language in Request for Proposals

By Allen D. Payton

During their meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2025, the Antioch City Council will again reconsider Citywide Economic Development Initiative grants totaling $60,000 to three community organizations awarded in September. The matter has become controversial with Mayor Ron Bernal challenging the decision during the Council’s Nov. 20th meeting. two council members were absent and District 1 Councilwoman Tamisha Torres-Walker left the dais during discussion of the agenda item to prevent a vote. (See 1:59:38 mark of video)

According to the City staff report for item #1 on Tuesday’s agenda, “The Mayor instructed the City Manager to bring for discussion the 2025 Request for Proposals (RFP) for the Citywide Economic Development and associated Grants which were awarded on September 12, 2025, outside of the 90-Day City Council Request List.”

The RFP states that the goal was “to award up to three (3) grants of $20,000 each to the best projects” to help with the City’s economic development efforts. Instead, after a panel, consisting of Torres-Walker, City Manager Bessie Scott, then-Assistant City Manager Brad Helfenberger, then-Interim Community and Economic Development Director David Storer, Public Information Officer Jaden Baird and then-Economic Development Program Manager Bret Sweet, reviewed the proposals, they chose to allocate two grants in the amount of $27,500 each and one in the amount of $5,000. The first two were awarded to Delta Business Group, to support the efforts by the newly organized Downtown Antioch Association of business owners, and Prison From-The-Inside-Out. The smaller grant was awarded to Celebrate Antioch Foundation because the Review Panel determined their proposal “did not align fully with the parameters of the RFP.”

Purpose of Grants

The RFP solicited qualified organizations, nonprofits and business support entities to implement projects that aim to achieve at least two or more of the following outcomes:

• Increased Economic Activity – Boost foot traffic, sales, or commercial occupancy rates in key corridors.

• Business Retention or Expansion – Provide support or services that result in business stabilization, retention, or physical/operational growth.

• Entrepreneurial Development – Foster new business creation, especially among underserved populations or within underutilized areas.

• Commercial Corridor Revitalization – Visibly enhance underperforming areas (e.g., vacant storefront activations, façade improvements, pop-ups).

• Job Creation or Workforce Upskilling – Generate new employment opportunities or improve job readiness among residents.

• Community Engagement – Increase stakeholder participation, visibility of small businesses, or community pride in economic corridors.

Grant Awards

The process included a Blind Review with a group discussion at the end. According to the staff report, the Review Panel chose to issue the following grants for their proposed efforts:

• Celebrate Antioch Foundation– $5,000to perform Antioch Farmers’ Market promotion and signature event promotion. Although this proposal did not align fully with the parameters of the RFP, the organization was awarded an amount due to their services being complimentary to city services such as the farmers’ market.

• Delta Business Group– $27,500to work with the Downtown Antioch Association to build city-wide business-centered digital infrastructure development, city-wide and downtown capacity building, community building, collaboration and transition planning.

• Prison From-The-Inside-Out– $27,500to perform commercial corridor revitalization, city-wide community engagement, workforce development and job creation, and workforce upskilling.

Celebrate Antioch Foundation Leader Appeals Smaller Grant

But former Antioch Councilwoman Joy Motts, who is president of Celebrate Antioch Foundation (CAF), was not satisfied with the amount of her organization’s grant and shared her concerns with Bernal. He in turn chose to bring it to the City Council for a decision that could override the allocations by the Review Panel. The matter was first placed on the Nov. 20th meeting agenda for discussion and a possible decision. That’s when things turned controversial.

CAF has a history of working with and receiving funds from the City for the multiple, annual community events they’ve organized, mostly in downtown Rivertown including annual July 4th Celebration. They worked together on this past Saturday’s Holiday Delites Celebration. CAF’s largest project with the City was the year-long Sesquicentennial Celebration with multiple events in 2022. This year, the group added the Farmer’s Market on Sundays, for which their grant application was focused.

According to a report by City Finance Director Dawn Merchant, CAF received $95,000 in City funds for the Sesquicentennial events, including a $25,000 Administration Fee, and $50,000 for the 2022 July 4th event. (For full disclosure, this reporter named and helped form CAF).

City Attorney Gets Involved

Before the meeting, the City Attorney’s Office reviewed the RFP, along with emails from Motts and all attachments included in the agenda packet. According to Scott’s staff report, in the opinion of Interim City Attorney Derek Cole, “there is no legal issue with the way the City handled this RFP” which “clearly outlines the scope of the services being sought and the amount of the award does not exceed the amount authorized” of $60,000.

Furthermore, Scott states, “none of the proposers are entitled to any City funds and everygroup was given the opportunity to be heard and was equally assessed in determining the awards.”

City Manager Finds Mayor’s Challenge “Concerning…Alarming”, Claims it Diminishes Her Authority, Independence

Scott’s staff report further addressed the mayor’s challenge of the panel’s decision writing, “The City Manager finds it concerning and alarming that members of the City Council would request to diminish her legal and longstanding authority to award routine contracts and grants regardless of value, even if it is within her signing authority amounts. At no time in the past was this authority questioned of prior City Managers, including when the Mayor himself was the City Manager.”

Bernal served as Antioch City Manager from 2017-21. (See related articles here and here)

To further support her position, Scott cited the Report of the 2023-2024 Contra Costa County Civil Grand Jury entitled “Challenges Facing the City of Antioch” claiming Bernal’s challenge of her and the Review Panel’s decisions on the grants were undermining her ability to operate with independence. (See related article)

Scott wrote, “Within the Findings (of the Grand Jury Report), it is stated that a new City Manager’s success will depend, in part, on the Mayor and City Council creating an environment that while maintaining the oversight required by city ordinances, enables the City Manager to operate with independence, as also mandated by city ordinances.”

The City of Antioch has a Council-Manager form of government in which the council members are policy makers and hire a professional city manager to oversee day-to-day operations. The only other staff member the Council hires is the City Attorney.

“The actions described in this Staff Report reflect a departure from the governance structure mandated by the Antioch Municipal Code, as well as the essential duties and functions as outlined in the City Manager’s job description, and they pose significant operational, legal, and ethical risks,” Scott’s staff report states. “Continued encroachment on administrative authority undermines organizational stability and exposes the City to liability.”

She also claims Bernal’s challenge of the grant decisions is delaying the City’s economic development efforts.

“Too, non-adherence to established protocols has caused a significant delay in the carrying out of the 2025 Citywide Economic Development Initiative Grant Awards, as we push for, and desperately are in need of, economic development initiatives across the city,” Scott wrote. “Ensuring a well-functioning government requires that both the City Council and the City Manager operate within their defined roles and collaborate together with a shared goal of moving the city forward.”

Misinterpretations of Language in RFP

During public comments, Motts pointed out that Scott’s staff report incorrectly quotes that, “the RFP states that the goal was to award three groups up to $20,000” because it actually reads on page 4, “This RFP aims to award up to three (3) grants of $20,000 each.”

Yet, Motts was also incorrect in stating, “the RFP is clear that the City will award $60,000 in $20,000 grants to up to three projects. It does not say up to $20,000 and it does not say the grants will be changed to fit a project application.”

“Why would you manipulate the intent of the RFP?” she asked, directing her question to Scott.

However, the word “will” is not included and by using the word “aims” the language in the RFP allowed the panel to award all of the $60,000 allocated for the program to just one group or split the total among two organizations. They didn’t have to award funds to all three and the panel didn’t plan to according to Torres-Walker.

Concerns Politics Involved but Torres-Walker’s Efforts Result in Funds for CAF

Some residents are concerned that politics may be involved in the panel’s decision, since Motts ran unsuccessfully for city council placing second against Torres-Walker in 2020 and 2022, when the difference between the two was just four votes following a recount, and is expected to run against the incumbent councilwoman again, next year. But it was actually Torres-Walker who argued in favor of the $5,000 grant to CAF.

During council discussion of the item on Nov. 20th, Torres-Walker said, “I’m the only panelist who gave Celebrate Antioch a high score because they have been in the community and doing a lot of work in downtown…when others on the panel were considering completely denying the group’s proposal.”

“The proposal was not innovative. But I really appreciated the Farmer’s Market,” the councilwoman continued. “After hours of deliberating and actually only choosing two applicants – we did not choose a third applicant –  Celebrate Antioch’s proposal was not going to be funded. I made a proposal…through the City Manager to staff that we at least consider a small grant to support the efforts of the Farmer’s Market, which was new and innovative to the City of Antioch,” Torres-Walker explained. “Staff deliberated and agreed with my proposal and moved forward as such.”

Options for Council

The council members can choose to approve the Review Panel’s grant awards by voting for the resolution included with the agenda item, choose different grant amounts for each of the three groups, or scrap the entire program.

See Staff Report for Agenda Item #1 including the three proposals and complete Council Agenda.

Meeting Details

The meeting begins at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall located at 200 H Street in Antioch’s historic, downtown Rivertown. It 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.

By Mairead Glowacki, Communications Director, Office of Congressman Mark DeSaulnier

Walnut Creek, CA – Today, Tuesday, November 25, 2025, Congressman Mark DeSaulnier (D, CA-10) announced that he will host a town hall in San Ramon to discuss improving transportation and education in the East Bay on Saturday, December 6th from 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. PT.

As a senior member of the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and the Committee on Education and Workforce, Congressman DeSaulnier will provide updates on his work to improve quality of life in the East Bay by reducing commute times and supporting families, students, and public education. He will also take questions from constituents.

“Two of the issues that impact people’s lives most are transportation and education,” DeSaulnier said. “I’ll highlight my work as a senior member of @EdWorkforceDems and @TransportDems and how I’m working to reduce commutes, make transportation safer, and invest in quality public education to make life better for our whole community.”

Town Hall on Improving Transportation and Education in the East Bay

Saturday, December 6th

11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. PT

Live Oak Elementary School

5151 Sherwood Way, San Ramon

The event is open to the public and press. To RSVP or request special accommodations, visit https://desaulnier.house.gov/town-hall-rsvp or call (925) 933-2660. Please note that space is limited.

This will be Congressman DeSaulnier’s 253rd town hall and mobile district office hour since coming to Congress in January 2015. He represents portions of Antioch in the current 10th Congressional District.

Landscaping improved; SJJPA Board’s 2023 vote hasn’t yet changed

By Jaden Baird, PIO, City of Antioch

ANTIOCH, CA — On March 24, 2023, the San Joaquins Joint Powers Authority (SJJPA) Board voted to decommission the Antioch-Pittsburg San Joaquins train station. In keeping with this decision, Antioch’s Amtrak station will cease operations for the foreseeable future in 2027.  

In late 2024, SJJPA convened the Ad Hoc Antioch Train Station Working Group (ATSWG). This was at the direction of the SJJPA Board and SJJPA Board Vice Chair Diane Burgis, and in response to requests from community leaders. The ATSWG brings together a diverse mix of voices—including local elected officials, Antioch staff, Antioch community members and SJJPA staff—who are all committed to working collaboratively on this important matter. 

The ATSWG has met four times to explore the future of the Amtrak Gold Runner (formerly San Joaquins) Station in Antioch. Group discussions to date have focused on measures implemented by the City of Antioch to improve the safety of Gold Runner riders at the station, as well as plans to beautify the station and its surroundings (while still in use before decommissioning is completed). Antioch has made a total of $375,000 in budgetary commitments to implement these improvements in the short- and long-term. SJJPA Board Vice Chair Diane Burgis has shared her appreciation for Antioch’s efforts stating, “San Joaquins riders should feel safe and welcome at our stations, including here in East Contra Costa County. I’m grateful to the Antioch community and Antioch’s city leaders for stepping up and collaborating with staff.”  

The collaborative approach undertaken by the ATSWG—including City of Antioch representatives, Alliance of Californians for Community Empowerment (ACCE) Action Antioch, Contra Costa County partners and SJJPA and Amtrak Staff—demonstrates a strong commitment to improving Antioch Station safety, appearance, and functionality.  

The City of Antioch’s stated goal as part of the ATSWG effort was to request that the SJJPA Board reconsider its decision to decommission the station, ensuring the continued operation of passenger rail service while advancing infrastructure improvements that will enhance regional connectivity, improve reliability, and support future growth along the San Joaquins corridor.

“I appreciate the joint discussions about reasons the station was decommissioned and the significant investment the City is making to position the Antioch-Pittsburg Station for consideration to be recommissioned,” said Antioch Mayor Ron Bernal.

ATSWG community representatives Eddie Gums, Tachina Garrett and Devin Williams of ACCE Action Antioch, as well as many other residents during SJJPA hearings and council meetingss, have expressed their opposition to the planned closure of the Pittsburg–Antioch station as a reflection of general community sentiment. While they appreciate the formation of the ATSWG, the three stated, “The initial decision was made without prior public notice, and the community must be involved in any major, life-altering transportation decisions that affect us”. 

Gums, Garrett and Williams “urge the committee to prioritize transparency, robust public engagement and consideration of the long-term impacts this closure will have on residents.” 

At the time of this statement’s release, the SJJPA Board’s March 24, 2023, decision to decommission the Antioch Amtrak Station remains unchanged and will be executed as planned in 2027. (See related articles here, here, here, here and here).

Issues statement calling it “reckless Republican funding bill” which passed 222-209

Reps. Garamendi, Harder, Senators Padilla & Schiff also vote against

Republicans called it a “damaging and unnecessary shutdown” and claim they “acted responsibly and stood with the nation from the start”

By Allen D. Payton

Today, Congressman Mark DeSaulnier (D, CA-10) released the following statement upon voting “no” on final passage of the Continuing Appropriations, Agriculture, Legislative Branch, Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Extensions Act, 2026 (H.R. 5371) in the United States House of Representatives, which ended the longest government shutdown in the nation’s history.

“This Republican spending bill is an assault on the health care, wallets, and wellbeing of the constituents I represent and the American people. Since the start of the year, I have promised to stand up against Republican attacks and protect Americans’ health care. Rather than work with Democrats to negotiate a bipartisan spending bill that keeps care affordable, Republicans shut down the government. After playing politics with Americans’ lives and livelihoods for over a month, nothing in today’s so-called “deal” will make life better for working people than it was before the shutdown started. I continue to hear every day from people who are worried about how to get by and whether they will be able to afford quality health care for themselves and their families. My vote today was in support of and solidarity with these members of our community and millions more across the country whose livelihoods and health will suffer as a direct result of this cruel and reckless bill. Despite this outcome, I will continue to fight on to lower costs, protect health care, and preserve the rule of law.”

The bill, known as a Continuing Resolution, passed the Senate Monday on a 60-40 vote, following multiple previous votes, with eight Democrats joining 52 of the 53 Republicans. Both California’s U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D) and Adam Schiff (D) voted “no”. The original bill which passed the House in September was amended and had to return to the House for final votes.

It passed the House on Wednesday on a vote of 222-209 with six Democrats crossing the aisle to back the bill.  Contra Costa County’s other Members of the House of Representatives, John Garamendi (D, CA-8) and Josh Harder (D, CA-9) also voted against the bill.

The House Appropriations Committee issued the following press release about the vote:

House Republicans Restore Order: Congress Passes Clean Funding Extension and Full-Year Appropriations Bills to Reopen Government

“The House of Representatives passed the Continuing Appropriations, Agriculture, Legislative Branch, Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Extensions Act, 2026, with a vote of 222 to 209.

After a damaging and unnecessary shutdown that lasted 43 days, a funding extension that House Republicans called for and passed in September is finally headed to President Trump’s desk. Senate Democrats voted against this clean, nonpartisan measure 15 times over the course of the six weeks they held the government hostage.

In addition to the continuing resolution, Congress approved three full-year appropriations bills covering the Legislative Branch, Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, Agriculture, Rural Development, and the Food and Drug Administration.

Passage of this first tranche of bills is strong Article I progress for Appropriators, who have already advanced all twelve bills through the full committee. With the rest of the federal government now funded through January 30, 2026, the Appropriations Committee will continue working to move our remaining nine full-year bills across both chambers. This regular order momentum ends the era of backroom omnibus deals and puts taxpayers first. 

While Democrat leadership and their progressive caucus determined that inflicting pain on the American people was their pathway forward, reason overturned their obstruction in the end. Republicans acted responsibly and stood with the nation from the start. Now, the Democrat shutdown is behind us, and Congress can refocus on the work the American people expect and deserve.”

Next, the bill will go to President Donald Trump, who plans to sign it tonight.

Draft Plan Bay Area 2050+ Is Here
《灣區規劃2050+（草案）》現已發布
El borrador de Plan Bay Area 2050+ ya está disponible

“To help the region build more homes, reduce commute times, and create vibrant downtowns and natural areas for everyone to enjoy.”

By MTC & ABAG

After more than two years of public discussion, technical analysis and refinement, the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) and the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) have released the Draft Plan Bay Area 2050+ and the Plan Bay Area 2050+ Draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for review and comment. The plan contains 35 strategies representing public policies and investments that can be implemented in the Bay Area by 2050 to help the region build more homes, reduce commute times, and create vibrant downtowns and natural areas for everyone to enjoy. The plan’s strategies also aim to keep people safe from natural hazards, support a strong economy and provide stable housing for those who need it most.

Unique to this plan cycle is the parallel Transit 2050+ planning effort, which culminated in the first-of-its-kind plan to re-envision the future of Bay Area public transit, in partnership with transit operators across the region.

The first in a series of public hearings for Draft Plan Bay Area 2050+ will take place this Friday as part of the MTC Planning Committee and ABAG Administrative Committee.

The draft plan, along with the Draft EIR, the Draft Implementation Plan and accompanying supplemental reports, are all available for review and comment.

The schedule for public hearings on the draft plan and the Draft EIR is as follows:

Public Hearing #1 — MTC Planning Committee and ABAG Administrative Committee
Friday, November 14, 2025, at 9:40 a.m. or upon the conclusion of the Bay Area Infrastructure Financing Authority Network and Operations Committee, whichever is later.

Bay Area Metro Center
Board Room, 1st Floor
375 Beale Street, San Francisco
Instructions to join by Zoom

Public Hearing #2 — Fremont (hybrid)
Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at 6 p.m.

Zoom link: https://bit.ly/drafthearing2
Webinar ID: 875 7625 3306
Passcode: 178983
888 788 0099 US Toll Free

In-person location:
Olive Hyde Art Center and Gallery
123 Washington Boulevard, Fremont

Public Hearing #3 — Novato (hybrid)
Thursday, December 4, 2025, at 6 p.m.

Zoom link: https://bit.ly/drafthearing3
Webinar ID: 898 0347 9624
Passcode: 129009
888 788 0099 US Toll Free

In-person location:
Best Western Plus Novato Oaks Inn
215 Alameda del Prado, Novato

Each public hearing will begin with the Draft Plan Bay Area 2050+ hearing followed by the Draft EIR hearing. Oral and written comments will be received at the hearings.

See below for additional public participation opportunities.

Read Draft Plan Bay Area 2050+ and its supplemental reports at planbayarea.org/draftplan, review the Draft EIR at https://planbayarea.org/2050/environmental-impact-report-eir, and submit your comments by December 18, 2025 at 5 p.m.

Tell Us What You Think

Submit Written Comments

Draft Plan Bay Area 2050+

• Use the online comment form at planbayarea.org/draftplan
• Email info@planbayarea.org (subject line: “Draft Plan”)
• Mail comments to:
  MTC Public Information Office
  Attn: Plan Bay Area
  375 Beale Street, Suite 800
  San Francisco, CA 94105

Plan Bay Area 2050+ Draft EIR

• Use the online comment form at planbayarea.org/2050/environmental-impact-report-eir
• Email eircomments@bayareametro.gov (subject line: “Draft EIR”)
• Mail comments to:
  MTC Public Information Office
  Attn: Draft EIR Comments
  375 Beale Street, Suite 800
  San Francisco, CA 94105

Leave a Voicemail

Call the Plan Bay Area public information line at (415) 778-2292 and record your comment.

All comments must be received by 5 p.m. on Thursday, December 18, 2025.

Request assistance! | ¡Solicita ayuda! | 請求幫助!

For translation, interpretation and any other assistance, call (415) 778.6757. Three working days’ notice is required.

Para traducción, interpretación u otra asistencia, llame al (415) 778.6757. Se requiere aviso con tres días hábiles de anticipación.

如需翻譯，口譯或其他協助，請提前三個工作日致電(415) 778.6757。 

La liberación de los beneficios de CalFresh en California para noviembre

All County offices will be closed for Veterans Day holiday, Tuesday, Nov. 11

By Tish Gallegos, PIO, Contra Costa County Employment & Human Services Department

(Martinez, Calif.) – California residents are seeing the restoration of their CalFresh benefits to Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards as the federal government issues 100% of the funding following a court order. CalFresh, known federally as the Supplemental Nutrition Food Assistance Program (SNAP), provides critical food assistance to households and County residents.

The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) has confirmed the loading of CalFresh benefits to EBT cards for November-eligible recipients who should have received them from Nov. 1-6. CDSS expects the loading to continue for those who were regularly scheduled to receive them Nov. 7-10.

CalFresh recipients can check on their CalFresh benefits by visiting BenefitsCal.com, calling 1(866) 663-3225, or visiting an EHSD office (find office locations at ehsd.org). Note that all County offices will be closed for the Veterans Day holiday on Tuesday, November 11.

With the release of funding to load EBT cards, Contra Costa County is pausing its recently announced plan to distribute debit cards to CalFresh participants eligible for the benefit in November. The distribution was expected to fill the gap from the lapse of federal funding that threatened the food security of 107,020 individuals in Contra Costa County, more than half children and older adults.  Earlier this week, the Board of Supervisors’ unanimously approved up to $21 million from the County’s General Fund authorizing the Employment & Human Services Department (EHSD) to implement the debit card distribution plan.

“We are committed to supporting our community members and remain prepared to possibly distribute the debit cards at a later time if CalFresh (SNAP) funding is further disrupted,” said Board Chair Candace Andersen, District 2 Supervisor. “It is uncertain what will happen with CalFresh benefits for December, and we will hold the County funds in reserve as we watch for the federal government to reach a funding solution.”

The Board of Supervisors declared a local emergency this week due to the federal government shutdown disrupting CalFresh funding. The declaration stands for 60 days, and EHSD expects to report back to the Board about the need to continue the local emergency.

For residents who need food resources, the Food Bank of Contra Costa & Solano’s Find Food in My City page is available to search by city or zip code for food distribution sites. Community members can also call (855) 309-FOOD (3663). 

Additional Resources

• Contra Costa Crisis Center- crisis-center.org; call 988 or (800) 273-8255; or text “HOPE” to 20121
• 211 Contra Costa Database – Contra Costa Crisis Center – comprehensive database of local health and social services for Contra Costa residents
• CAfoodbanks.org – California Food Banks’ website
• ehsd.org – CalFresh updates related to the federal government shutdown

En Español

(Martínez, California) – Los residentes de California están viendo la restauración de sus beneficios de CalFresh a las tarjetas de Transferencia Electrónica de Beneficios (EBT) ya que el gobierno federal emite el 100% de los fondos luego de una orden judicial. CalFresh, conocido federalmente como el Programa de Asistencia Alimentaria de Nutrición Suplementaria (SNAP por sus siglas en Inglés), brinda asistencia alimentaria crítica a los hogares y residentes del condado.

El Departamento de Servicios Sociales de California (CDSS por sus siglas en Inglés) ha confirmado la carga de los beneficios de CalFresh a las tarjetas EBT para los beneficiarios elegibles para noviembre que deberían haberlos recibido del 1 al 6 de noviembre. CDSS espera que la carga continúe para aquellos que están programados regularmente para recibirlos del 7 al 10 de noviembre.

Los beneficiarios de CalFresh pueden verificar sus beneficios de CalFresh visitando BenefitsCal.com, llamando al 1(866) 663-3225 o visitando una oficina de EHSD (encuentre las ubicaciones de las oficinas en ehsd.org). Tenga en cuenta que todas las oficinas del condado estarán cerradas por el feriado del Día de los Veteranos el martes 11 de noviembre.

La Junta de Supervisores sigue comprometida a apoyar a los hogares que no reciben beneficios de CalFresh debido al cierre del gobierno. Cualquier hogar que no haya recibido sus beneficios antes del lunes, puede llamar o venir a una ubicación de EHSD para obtener ayuda. Consulte ehsd.org para conocer las ubicaciones.

A principios de esta semana, la Junta de Supervisores aprobó por unanimidad hasta $21 millones del Fondo General del Condado que autoriza al Departamento de Empleo y Servicios Humanos (EHSD) a implementar el plan de distribución de tarjetas de débito.

“Estamos comprometidos a apoyar a los miembros de nuestra comunidad y seguimos preparados para posiblemente distribuir las tarjetas de débito si los fondos de CalFresh (SNAP) se interrumpen aún más”, dijo la presidenta de la junta, Candace Andersen, supervisora del Distrito 2. “No está claro qué sucederá con los beneficios de CalFresh para diciembre, y mantendremos los fondos del condado en reserva mientras esperamos que el gobierno federal llegue a una solución de financiamiento”.

La Junta de Supervisores declaró una emergencia local esta semana debido al gobierno federal interrupción de la financiación de CalFresh. La declaración tiene una duración de 60 días, y EHSD espera informar a la Junta sobre la necesidad de continuar con la emergencia local.

Para los residentes que necesitan recursos alimentarios, la página Find Food in My City del Banco de Alimentos de Contra Costa y Solano está disponible para buscar por ciudad o código postal los sitios de distribución de alimentos. Los miembros de la comunidad también pueden llamar al (855) 309-FOOD (3663).

Recursos adicionales

• Centro de Crisis de Contra Costa: crisis-center.org; llame al 988 o al (800) 273-8255; o envíe un mensaje de texto con la palabra “HOPE” al 20121

• Base de datos 211 de Contra Costa – Centro de crisis de Contra Costa – base de datos completa de servicios sociales y de salud locales para residentes de Contra Costa

• CAfoodbanks.org – Sitio web de los Bancos de Alimentos de California

• ehsd.org – Actualizaciones de CalFresh relacionadas con el cierre del gobierno federal

New roles including strategic advisor intended to enhance city operations, community focus; staff claims “City’s executive staffing plan” complete but Assistant City Manager is vacant, City Attorney is interim – search underway; Helfenberger switches to Director of Info Services

By Jaden Baird, Public Information Officer, City of Antioch

The City of Antioch announces several executive appointments and leadership transitions across key departments, marking an important milestone in the City’s ongoing efforts to strengthen organizational capacity, operational efficiency and service to the community. Brad Helfenberger will move to the position of Director of Information Services from Assistant City Manager, which is currently vacant. Instead, an Executive Consultant has been hired to advise City Manager Bessie M. Scott.

“These appointments represent both stability and forward progress,” Scott said. “We’ve filled essential leadership roles with experienced professionals who bring strong vision, proven capability and a shared commitment to serving our community. Together, they reflect the City’s investment in sustainable leadership and operational excellence.”

Effective October 20, 2025, the following appointments and transitions took effect:

Monserrat Cabral – Director of Public Safety and Community Resources

Previously serving as Interim Director, Monserrat Cabral has been appointed as the permanent Director of Public Safety and Community Resources.

Cabral is a strategic and heart-centered public sector leader with more than two decades of experience advancing equity, safety, and opportunity across government, community, and nonprofit systems. As Acting Director, she has led initiatives that strengthen community well-being, expand access to housing and youth opportunity, and embed compassion into public policy.

Her leadership is defined by her ability to bridge institutional systems with lived experience, building trust, alignment, and lasting impact. Before joining the City of Antioch, Cabral served in leadership roles across education, philanthropy, and nonprofit sectors, designing programs that empowered young people, working families, and system-impacted communities.

She has advised national networks on organizational culture and equity in leadership development, directed regional collaboratives focused on restorative justice and reentry, and taught as an adjunct professor at Rutgers University, guiding graduate students in public policy and community engagement.

A skilled negotiator and policy strategist, Cabral champions collaboration between city leadership, frontline staff, and community-based organizations, ensuring that those most affected by city policies help shape them.

At her core, Cabral believes that consistency, kindness, and joy are the foundation of meaningful change. She is passionate about writing, creating, and spending time with community and purpose, grounded in the belief that even serious work can be filled with warmth, humor, and hope.

Brad Helfenberger – Director of Information Services

Currently serving as Assistant City Manager, Brad Helfenberger will transition to Director of Information Services as part of the City’s upcoming leadership succession plan in the department, his third position in the last two years.

Helfenberger was originally hired by the City of Antioch as the Parks and Recreation Director in February 2021. He then was twice appointed Acting Assistant City Manager before being hired for the permanent position earlier this year.

Helfenberger brings over 25 years of experience in municipal government and holds a Bachelor of Science in Recreation from San José State University. Prior to joining Antioch, he held leadership roles with the City of Emeryville, the Hayward Area Recreation & Park District, and the City of Milpitas.

His expertise in budget management, policy development, and interdepartmental collaboration has made a lasting impact in every community he has served. As Antioch’s Parks and Recreation Director, Helfenberger was instrumental in enhancing public spaces, expanding recreational programming, and fostering community engagement.

This new role will allow Helfenberger to apply those same organizational and leadership skills to strengthen the City’s information systems and modernize its internal infrastructure.

Helfenberger has expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity to lead Information Services and continue contributing to the City’s long-term success.

“Brad’s ability to create structure, streamline operations, and build efficient systems will continue to benefit the City as we modernize technology and improve transparency,” Scott stated.

Shahad Wright – Director of Parks and Recreation

Promoted from Interim Director, Shahad Wright has been appointed Director of Parks and Recreation.

Born and raised in the Bay Area, Wright holds a Bachelor of Arts in Recreation with an emphasis in Non-Profit Management from San Francisco State University. He began his recreation career with the YMCA, leading local and national programs for more than 15 years and coordinating major events nationwide for NIKE, including NBA All-Star Weekends and USA Olympic programs.

Since joining the City of Antioch in 2022 as a Recreation Supervisor, Wright has advanced quickly through leadership roles, serving as Recreation Services Manager in 2023 and most recently as Acting Director. He oversees citywide recreation operations, including the Antioch Water Park, community centers, sports programs, facility maintenance, and special events, while serving as staff liaison for the Parks and Recreation Commission.

Committed to youth and community development, Wright and his family founded Giving the Wright Way, a nonprofit organization supporting youth success and higher education. In his free time, he enjoys traveling and spending time with his family.

This promotion recognizes Wright’s leadership in advancing recreation programming, expanding community access, and creating inclusive spaces that support the well-being of all Antioch residents.

Kelly Zelenka – Executive Consultant

The City has engaged Kelly Zelenka as an Executive Consultant to support ongoing operational and organizational development initiatives.

Zelenka brings more than 20 years of experience in the nonprofit, government, and philanthropic sectors, with a strong focus on human-centered leadership, culture-building, and strategic operations. Her work will assist the City in assessing systems, supporting leadership development, and enhancing collaboration across departments.

“Kelly’s extensive experience in organizational strategy and operational improvement will help strengthen how we work internally to serve the public more effectively,” said Scott. “Her insight and guidance are valuable as we continue building a high-performing, people-focused city organization.”

According to her LinkedIn profile, Zelenka since May 2022, Zelenka is the Principal of K Zelenka Consulting. She previously worked as the Senior Director, Housing and Services for Volunteers of America in Minnesota and Wisconsin, Assistant Director, Human Services for the Minneapolis Public Housing Authority and Deputy Department Director for the Seattle Public Housing Authority.

These appointments mark the completion of the City’s executive staffing plan and reflect Antioch’s ongoing investment in operational excellence, leadership continuity, and responsive public service. Together, the strengthened leadership team will continue building systems that support transparency, collaboration, and community trust.

Baird was asked how the appointments complete the City’s executive staffing plan when it leaves the Assistant City Manager’s position vacant and the current City Attorney is an interim position. He responded, “When we say the staffing plan is ‘complete,’ we mean that the key leadership roles outlined in the City Manager’s plan have been filled and that the structure is now in place to support the City Manager’s priorities. While the Assistant City Manager position isn’t being recruited right now, the focus has shifted to process improvement within departments, work that will be guided in large part by the consultant and supported by the City Manager’s office.”

According to Human Resources staff, earlier this year the Council hired a firm for a new city attorney to conduct a nationwide search which has been underway since May.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Community input wanted during two-year process

By City of Antioch

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.

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?

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.

Click to read the meeting agenda.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.