Finalize agreement to expand DOJ-required monitoring consultant’s contract
Consider potential whistleblower lawsuit
By Allen D. Payton
During a special meeting Monday, August 31, 2026, the Antioch City Council will consider hiring an Economic Development Director and forming a separate Economic Development Department, again. They will also finalize the discussion and vote on expanding the contract with the monitoring consultant required by the settlement agreements with the U.S. Department of Justice, City of Antioch and police department. That will follow a Closed Session to discuss the lawsuit by the natural gas pipeline company and a potential lawsuit by a City employee whistleblower.
Economic Development Director & Department Redo
Under Item 2. on the Special Meeting agenda, the Council will consider once again forming an Economic Development Department and hiring a director for it, following its merger with the Community Development Department by City Manager Bessie Scott, last year.
It also follows the current vacancy in the position of Director of the Community and Economic Development Department since March 3, 2026, when Zach Seal was no longer in the position after being hired less than six months earlier. (See related article)
According to the City staff report, the Council “has identified economic development as an important policy priority, including business attraction and retention, investment recruitment, development incentives, redevelopment, workforce partnerships and strategies to strengthen the City’s economic base. At the August 25th budget study session, City Council expressed the desire to explore separating Economic Development from Community Development and re-establishing a separate department with its own Director to have a focused strategy…at a time when economic development and revenue generation are most vital to the City.”
The staff report continues, “the Fiscal Year 2026/27 Economic Development division in the Community and Economic Development Department includes $436,759 in personnel budget for three positions: Senior Economic Development Program Manager, Economic Development Program Manager and Economic Development Specialist. Projected vacancy savings were built into the 2026/27 budget figure assuming it would take several months to fill the positions. There could be a budget impact should City Council decide to add back the Director position.”
The recommended organizational structure of the department would include an Economic Development Director, Senior Economic Development Coordinator and Specialist, eliminating the position and cost for the Economic Development Program Manager.
The staff report also shared, the current salary range for the Antioch Economic Development Director is $13,021-$15,828 per month, which is on the low end of a salary comparison with surrounding cities that’s included. “If a new salary range were established beyond that, it should fall within Antioch’s existing range of executive leadership salaries. If City Council would desire to increase the existing established salary range for the department’s Director, it is recommended to be at a range of $14,185-$17,242, slightly above Brentwood and within the City’s existing structure. The 2026/27 estimated annual salary and benefit cost of the position at this range at Step E would be $393,027.”
Monitoring Consultant Contract
After discussing then postponing the matter during their Aug. 25th meeting, under Item 1 on the Special Meeting agenda, the Council will again consider approving the First Amendment to the Professional Services Agreement with MS Investigative Services and Consulting, LLC, to expand the scope of services to include Independent Monitoring services required under the Allen Settlement Agreement (ASA); and authorizing an additional annual compensation amount of $150,000 for ASA monitoring services and associated Fiscal Year 2026/27 General Fund budget amendment.
According the company’s website, the Principal, Manjit Sappal “served in three California police departments, culminating in his tenure as Chief of Police for the City of Martinez…he also served twice as Interim City Manager…oversaw all municipal departments and guided the City through strategic budget initiatives, ballot measures, and community safety priorities.”
He earned a Master’s degree in Public Administration, a CA Private Investigator License, he’s a Certified Protection Professional, a graduate of the FBI National Academy Session 241 and the Police Executive Research Forum Senior Management Institute and has received DEA Federal Law Enforcement Analysis Training and CA Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Executive, Management, Supervisory, Advance, Intermediate and Basic.
According to the City staff report, “The existing Professional Services Agreement…provides compensation of up to $250,000 annually for consulting and monitoring services required under the USDOJ Memorandum of Agreement (MOA). The proposed First Amendment increases compensation by $150,000 annually to compensate the Consultant for the expanded monitoring responsibilities required under the Allen Settlement Agreement. The additional compensation will be paid hourly at the rate of $210 not to exceed $150,000.”
If the First Amendment is approved, total annual compensation for monitoring services under both agreements will not exceed $400,000 annually. Amending the contract requires a Fiscal Year 2026/27 General Fund budget amendment of $150,000 which will increase the projected deficit of $4,567,879 by $150,000. Funding for future years will be included in draft budgets brought forth for consideration.
Background
According to the City staff report, in April 2023, the USDOJ initiated an investigation into the Antioch Police Department following the public disclosure of text messages exchanged by Antioch police officers containing racist, sexist and discriminatory language. As a result, in Jan. 2025, the City of Antioch, Antioch Police Department and the USDOJ entered into the MOA, requiring implementation of reforms related to constitutional policing, accountability systems, data collection, complaint investigations, community engagement, hiring practices, supervision and oversight.
A key component of the MOA required the City and the USDOJ to jointly select an Independent Consultant to provide technical assistance, compliance monitoring and implementation oversight. Following a competitive and joint evaluation process with USDOJ representatives, MS Investigative Services and Consulting, LLC was selected as the Independent Consultant.
Then, on March 27, 2026, the City entered into the Settlement Agreement in Allen et al. v. City of Antioch, et al, a class action civil rights lawsuit. The Settlement Agreement incorporates many of the same constitutional policing reforms and accountability measures already required under the DOJ MOA and expressly requires that the existing DOJ Monitor also serve as the Monitor under the ASA.
The monitoring consultant submitted the Antioch Police Department’s First Compliance Report in April this year, pursuant to the MOA signed January 2, 2025. The report assesses the Department’s compliance with the MOA for the reporting from that date through March 31, 2026.
That followed the police department’s Self-Assessment Report 1 issued by Chief Joe Vigil on October 15, 2025.
Closed Session
During their Closed Session meeting beginning at 5:30 p.m., under Item 1. the Council will hold a Conference with Legal Counsel on existing litigation by the California Resources Pipeline Corporation (CPRC) v. City of Antioch, Contra Costa Superior Court Case No. MSN21-2354. The lawsuit continues following the Antioch City Council’s 4-0 vote during their meeting on July 28, 2026, to deny the company’s Encroachment Permit Appeal. CPRC is the owner of the low-pressure, natural gas pipeline that runs under the city and has been shut off since 2021. (See related articles here, here and here)
Under Item 2., the Council will hear about and discuss “Significant exposure to one case of litigation pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(e)(2). The staff report reads, “The City is in receipt of information concerning facts and circumstances that might result in litigation against the City which are known to a potential plaintiff or plaintiffs pertaining to possible Labor Code Section 1102.5, and Fair Employment and Housing Act violations.” According to Employment Law Aid, “California Labor Code § 1102.5 protects whistleblowers who report violations.”
Meeting Details
Before entering Closed Session and during their Regular Meeting, which begins at 6:30 p.m., the Council will meet in the Council Chambers at 200 H Street, and both can be viewed via livestream on the City’s website, on the City’s YouTube channel or on Comcast cable TV channel 24 or AT&T U-verse channel 99.
Antioch Superintendent Dr. Darnise Williams is on paid administrative leave, and Jose Banda has been appointed Interim Superintendent in her place. Photos: AUSD (left) and LinkedIn (right)
Following four meetings on her performance evaluation
Interim Superintendent appointed, starts Monday
By Allen D. Payton
During another special meeting of the Antioch School Board on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, on a split vote, the trustees placed Superintendent Dr. Darnise R. Williams on paid administrative leave after less than 14 months in the job. Following a Closed Session during the fourth meeting at which they conducted the superintendent’s public employee performance evaluation, Board President Dr. Jag Lathan reported, “The Board took action in Closed Session by a vote of four yays and one no to place Superintendent Williams on administrative leave effective…August 25th, 2026 until further notice.” Lathan was the only trustee to vote against the action. Williams will continue to be paid during her leave.
Tuesday night’s meeting agenda included three items of discussion: A. Public Employee Evaluation – Superintendent; B. Public Employee Discipline/Dismissal/Release; and C. Public Employee Appointment – Acting and/or Interim Superintendent, all under Gov. Code § 54957, which allows local agency legislative bodies to hold closed sessions for employee matters.
Lathan also reported, “The Board took action in Closed Session by a vote of three yays and two no’s, to finalize Superintendent Williams’ evaluation. Trustee Brown, Cobos-Smith and Trustee Rocha voted yes, Trustees Hernandez and Lathan voted no.”
Finally, the Board also, “took action in Closed Session by a unanimous vote…to appoint Ed Dacus as Acting Superintendent effective August 26th through August 30th, 20206 and Jose Banda as Interim Superintendent effective August 31st, 20206 through and until his services are no longer needed,” Lathan stated. His contract will be discussed at the next regular board meeting which is scheduled for Sept. 9. (See 2:12:25 mark of meeting video)
AUSD Board President Dr. Lathan reports out from Closed Session during the meeting on Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2026. Video screenshot
Williams was hired during the June 11, 2025 School Board meeting on a 3-1 vote with Area 5 Trustee Mary Rocha the lone dissenter and Area 4 Trustee Olga Cobos-Smith absent. This is Williams’ fourth position in five years, and she was paid $357,234 this past school year. (See related article)
The Board conducted the performance evaluation of Williams during three previous meetings. At their Special Meeting on May 27, which was not live-streamed, the report out reads, “There was no reportable action taken during closed session.” Then during the August 5 Special Board Meeting, which was also not live-streamed, the report out of Closed Session reads,“The Board took action by unanimous vote of all trustees present to assign Trustee Cobos-Smith with the duty of compiling the Board’s evaluation of the superintendent consistent with Board Policy 2140.”
Then during their Regular Meeting on August 19th, the Board again conducted the performance evaluation of the superintendent. But Lathan did not report out from Closed Session any action on the matter.
Public Comments
Before the board entered Closed Session this past Tuesday night, only one person spoke during public comments, Dr. Kimberly Payton (no relation to this reporter) of the East County NAACP said, “Put children first. Put equity first. Put their future first.”
“For far too long students in this district have suffered educational setbacks and unacceptable levels of progress,” she stated. “Now, at a critical moment, we finally have a superintendent who appears to be committed to recognizing the true value of education and to be delivering quality, equitable and inclusive educational opportunities for every child and now, she may be terminated. We must ask ourselves, why would we turn away from progress when children need it most.”
“The East County NAACP is asking you to make a choice and take a chance,” she continued. “Choose children over politics. Choose equity over excuses. Choose inclusion over exclusion. Choose progress over continued failure. Our students deserve an education that prepares them to succeed not a system that accepts persistent gaps from the normal.”
“We cannot ask another generation of African American students to wait. We cannot tell families to wait while their children fall further behind,” said Payton. “Today, I urge you to…give the students of this district opportunity, support, resources and leadership that they need to succeed. Their future cannot wait.”
“Stand with our children. Stand for equity. Stand for educational excellence, and do not support the continued failure and non-progress of African American students,” she concluded.
The Board then adjourned to Closed Session and returned an hour and 40 minutes later with their decision.
About Interim Superintendent Banda
On Wednesday, the District issued the following statement from the Board about Banda’s appointment (but did not provide it to local media):
“The Board of Trustees of the Antioch Unified School District acted by a unanimous vote of 5-0 on August 25, 2026, to appoint Jose Banda, a qualified administrator and retired superintendent, to serve as Interim Superintendent. This appointment followed the Board’s prior action by a vote of 4-1 to place Superintendent Darnise Williams on a leave of absence, effective August 25, 2026, until further notice. Mr. Banda will commence his service as Interim Superintendent on August 31, 2026. Until then, Director of Educational Services Ed Dacus will serve as Acting Superintendent.”
According to his Linkedin profile, Banda is the former Superintendent of the Sacramento City Unified School District and earned a B.A. in Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies from has Cal State University Sacramento and a Master of Arts degree in Educational Leadership and Administration, General from Chapman University.
Suing District, Threatens to Sue Two Trustees
Rocha claims Williams is suing the district and threatened to sue her and Area 2 Trustee Dee Brown for $5 million, but would not share the details of the potential lawsuit. Rocha only said, “I was expecting the papers. But she hasn’t yet. She might now.”
Efforts to reach Brown were unsuccessful prior to publication time.
When reached for comment Cobos-Smith responded, “This is a confidential personnel matter, and I have no further comment. Mr. Banda is an experienced and retired superintendent qualified to lead the District during Dr. Williams’ leave of absence. I have no further comment.”
Please check back later for any updates to this report.
Like a scene from the Apple MacIntosh computer “1984” Super Bowl TV commercial and during a night the council voted to approve what some are concerned is more Big Brother-type surveillance, Mayor Ron Bernal’s face looms large over the Antioch City Council meeting on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, as he participates remotely due to what he described as “a contagious illness.” Video screenshot.
Plus, 30 more police emergency radios; postpones contract expansion with U.S. DOJ police department monitor
Mayor Bernal participates remotely without prior notification but allowed due to “contagious illness”
“I want to get Flock out of Antioch,” Councilwoman Torres-Walker said then voted for the new AI-assisted license plate reader system.
By Allen D. Payton
During their Tuesday night meeting, Aug. 25, 2026, the Antioch City Council approved the purchase of AI-assisted technology systems for the police department, a one-year 3% COLA pay raise for police officers, traffic calming devices for Sycamore Drive and 30 more police emergency radios. The council postponed approving the contract expansion with U.S. DOJ police department monitor. They also received some good news about the City’s investments, received and approved the 2025 Annual Military Equipment Report from the police department and approved the 2025 Urban Water Management Plan and Water Shortage Contingency Plan.
Bernal Participates Remotely Due to Illness
Only three council members attended in-person with Mayor Ron Bernal participating remotely, but his location was not included in the agenda as was required of District 1 Councilwoman Tamisha Torres-Walker during the last two meetings. She participated remotely in the last council meeting from a resort and spa in Santa Cruz after proper notification. That followed her being denied the opportunity to participate in the prior meeting due to an error by Acting City Manager Ana Cortez, even though the councilwoman did provide her location prior to the meeting as required. However, different rules applied this time because Bernal was sick. (See related articles here, here and here)
Mayor Pro Tem and District 3 Councilman Don Freitas presided over the meeting, with only Torres-Walker and District 2 Councilman Louie Rocha in attendance and District 4 Councilwoman Monica Wilson absent.
At the beginning of Tuesday’s meetings, which started with a Closed Session at 3:30 p.m., Bernal was asked to confirm his attendance by Freitas. The mayor, via Zoom said, “I affirm my attendance. I, Ron Bernal, Mayor of the City of Antioch, am unable to attend tonight’s meeting due to a contagious illness and am appearing remotely under just cause pursuant to California Government Code Section 54953.8.3. My wife, Irma, will be the only person, the only adult in the room with me and I will participate via both audio and visual technology throughout the entirety of the meeting. Mr. City Clerk, I ask that you please record my remote appearance under just cause, in the official meeting minutes for the record. Thank you.”
“So noted,” City Clerk Michael Mandy responded.
“And your attendance, roll call,” Freitas asked.
“My attendance is remote tonight so Mayor Pro Tem Freitas will be presiding over tonight’s meeting,” Bernal added.
“It is affirmative,” Freitas responded.
“The mayor has confirmed his attendance,” Mandy stated.
“I am present,” Bernal responded.
The council then entered Closed Session to discuss employee group contracts and nine potential lawsuits. That was followed by a Special Meeting Study Session on the Fiscal Year 2027-28 General Fund Budget at 5:30 p.m. which was followed by the Regular Meeting.
Regular Meeting
Bernal repeated his confirmation to participate remotely at the beginning of the Regular Meeting which was again noted by Mandy.
City Attorney Lori Asuncion said there was nothing to report out from Closed Session.
Resident Loretta Ezeife offers her appreciation and about her background after being appointed to the Sales Tax Citizens’ Oversight Committee and then given the oath of office and congratulated by City Clerk Michael Mandy while surrounded by her family. Video screenshots.
The council then moved up Item 8 the appointment of Loretta Ezeife to the Sales Tax Citizens’ Oversight Committee after Item 2 on the agenda. She was appointed on a 4-0 vote of the council. Ezeife then offered remarks and thanked the mayor for nominating her and was given the oath of office by City Clerk Mandy while she was surrounded by her family members.
City of Antioch Accrual Basis Earnings 2016-26. Source: PFM Asset Management
The council, under Item 5, received the Investment Performance Review presented by Justin Ressuelo, Institutional Sales and Relationship Manager of PFM Asset Management, the City’s advisors. The report shows the City has experienced Accrual Basis Earnings from its investments of almost $51 million over the past 10 years and earned $1.2 million in interest over the past three months, $4.9 million over the past year and $13.7 million over the past three years.
Traffic Calming Devices on Sycamore Drive
Rocha wanted to know why the traffic calming devices proposed for Sycamore Drive, under Item 6.H. on the Consent Calendar, were moved up ahead of those proposed for James Donlon Blvd.
“It will go out (for bid) this fall. Give us a year and we’ll have things laid out a bit better,” Public Works Director Scott Buenting stated.
Traffic Calming Devices and their locations in one of eight segments planned for Sycamore Drive. Source: City of Antioch
Bernal asked about other traffic calming throughout town in response to complaints about sideshows in intersections throughout the city.
“They’re not built into the traffic calming,” Buenting responded, “We’re working through some geometry about that. It’s not a one-size-fits-all. Most likely it’s going to be bringing out something in the middle of the intersection like a speed bump. These would be done with bolt-down apparatus. I want to get something rolled out here fairly soon…in a couple different areas…that need some sideshow deterrent.”
The Council then voted 4-0 to award the construction agreement to Martinez-based Cowan & Thompson Construction, Inc. in the amount of $488,511.94, with a $25,000 contingency for a total contract amount of $513,511.94 for the Sycamore Drive Traffic Calming Improvements Project. The devices will be placed in eight segments along the street and will include signs and raised traffic separator curb guidance systems with quick release delineator bases.
Council Postpones Decision on DOJ Settlement Agreement Monitoring Consultant
Under Item 6.K. on the Consent Calendar agenda, regarding paying for the monitoring consultant required by the settlement agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) turned out to be a surprisingly controversial matter as Freitas expressed his adamant opposition.
According to the City staff report for the item, following the U.S. DOJ investigation into the Antioch Police Department beginning in April 2023, regarding text messages containing racist, sexist and discriminatory language. As a result in January 2025, the City, police department and U.S. DOJ entered into a Memorandum of Agreement requiring implementation of reforms related to constitutional policing, accountability systems, data collection, complaint investigations, community engagement, hiring practices, supervision and oversight.
A key requirement requires the City and U.S. DOJ to jointly select an Independent Consultant to provide technical assistance, compliance monitoring and implementation oversight.
On March 27, 2026, the City entered into a Settlement Agreement in the Allen, et al. civil rights class action lawsuit that incorporates many of the constitutional policing reforms and accountability measures already required under the DOJ Agreement and requires the existing DOJ Monitor also serve as the Monitor under the Allen Settlement Agreement. (See related articles here and here)
The council was asked to approve the First Amendment to the Professional Services Agreement with MS Investigative Services and Consulting, LLC, to expand the scope of services to include Independent Monitoring services required under the Allen Settlement Agreement and authorizing additional compensation of $150,000 annually for monitoring services and the associated Fiscal Year 2026/27 General Fund budget amendment. If approved, the total compensation for the consultant would be $400,000 per year.
Bernal questioned paying the consultant monthly versus hourly.
Antioch Police Captain Shane Bower provided the staff report and answers to the council members’ questions.
“I have a very difficult time with a 71% increase, and I am absolutely opposed to $12,500 quarterly. He could be on vacation for a month and still get the $12,500,” Freitas stated. He also opposed paying the consultant hourly while driving from his home in Martinez to Antioch and instead wanted him to be paid the standard mileage rate.
“This is one of the most expensive consultant’s contract we have,” the Mayor Pro Tem added.
Bernal asked if the invoices can be brought back “to see how the billing has been going, so far.”
“Yes, I can bring that back,” Cortez stated.
“We have a five-year block of time. There’s a lot of additional work,” Bower responded.
“It’s in the report,” Freitas interjected.
“Mr. Sepulveda has already written the draft…that far exceeds the scope,” Bower said.
“It’s not my goal…to delay the satisfaction of the settlement,” Bernal responded.
“I support working with the existing consultant,” District 2 Councilman Louie Rocha stated. “Compensation seems to be the issue. It needs to be resolved.”
“Is that the standard in the City of Antioch? If it is it needs to come back for council discussion,” Freitas said about consultants being paid while driving to Antioch.
“There’s no doubt in my opinion that we need
“A majority of this agreement does not overlap with the DOJ agreement at all,” Police Chief Joe Vigil stated.
“As far as I’m concerned, there are concerns on the other side that we are dragging our feet. I’d hate to see us back in court,” said Torres-Walker.
“If a council member makes a request and it’s ignored, that causes a delay,” Freitas responded. “We also have a fiduciary responsibility, an oversight responsibility. I think those things need to be addressed.”
“I’m suggesting we are at risk of being in violation of the settlement agreement,” Torres-Walker stated and asked for a special meeting to discuss the matter.
Following agreement between Freitas and Cortez, the matter will return to a future council meeting for additional information and action.
Photo sources: (left) Flock Safety. (right) Axon.
Approves Police Department Technology Systems Purchase
Under Item 9. on the agenda, the Council received the staff report from Antioch Police Lt. Michael Mellone on the purchase of AI-assisted automated license plate recognition, in-car camera and integrated public safety technology systems. According to the staff report, the contract includes “55 fixed automated license plate recognition (ALPR) locations using Axon Outpost, six additional Axon Fleet 3 in-car video and mobile ALPR systems, and 120 Axon AI Assistant licenses for the Police Department, for a 49-month term beginning October 1, 2026, in an amount not to exceed $661,687.54.”
“I called for dash cameras so I’m glad there’ll be more of them throughout the city,” Torres-Walker stated. She then asked about Flock license plate recognition cameras and compliance.
“We are at the forefront of being compliant, not only with the Flock license plate readers,” Mellone responded. “We don’t share with ICE or any federal agencies. That data we collect in Antioch is staying here and not being shared with anyone else.”
“I’m excited to see there will be AI translation,” the councilwoman stated.
“It’s really cool. All the officer has to do is push a button on his body-worn camera and choose whatever language…and it will translate one-to-one,” Mellone explained.
During public comments, resident Kimberly Kit Bailey asked if the cameras “are only going to be in…the troubled areas or will they be all over the city?”
“They are in all locations of the city,” Mellone responded. “We try to cover all the major entry and exit points of town. All the major thoroughfares, all the major intersections. We’re not just concentrating on certain, specific neighborhoods.”
The next public speaker was Mike Katz-Lacabe, who said he is the Director of Oakland Privacy, described as “a citizens’ coalition that works statewide to defend the right to privacy, enhance public transparency and promote oversight regarding the use of surveillance techniques and equipment.” He said, “I urge a no vote…because the staff report does not provide enough information…to justify the $660,000. There was no competitive or comparison bidding process.” He also questioned “expansion of the surveillance program” and said APD’s claim that “Motorola is decommissioning their ALPR platform…is highly suspect” because “law enforcement agencies like L.A.P.D. are continuing to purchase and deploy…technology from Motorola.”
Katz-Lacabe further complained the “staff report lacks any analysis of the effectiveness of the currently deployed license plate readers.” He also said the technology could be and is being abused and used to stalk people.
Resident Frank Sterling, speaking via Zoom said, “I am concerned about mass surveillance. I’m learning more about Axon. But one thing I have been following…is the abuses are happening where people are taking advantage of the system. I think the possibility of abuse is still there.”
Mellone responded, “I think there are some very legitimate questions and concerns. I don’t think anyone in this room wants to have their movements tracked with specificity. I don’t think we want to live in that type of society. I know I certainly don’t. It does not track people. It tracks vehicle detections. It doesn’t track driver identity. It does not maintain a live location feed on a person.”
“Only an authorized investigator can review when and where a specific license plate was captured within the (30-day) retention period, and that search must have a legitimate purpose and it’s logged, audited and tracked,” he continued. “The system records a plate image, vehicle content image and visible vehicle characteristics and the time and location of a detection.”
He also said the information from the system is available to the public.
“I understand the community’s concerns around hyper-surveillance,” Torres-Walker stated. “My position is I want to get Flock out of Antioch and if moving forward with this Axon system is going to do that with potential…reviews along the way and some guardrails to make sure we are not violating civil liberties…then I can support that. My main position right now is I really want to see Flock eliminated,” she reiterated then asked about reporting to the council.
“We’re doing that now,” Mellone stated. “We have a website with the Fock data, in spite of how controversial that is. Anyone can go to our website…we have a transparency portal.” That can be found here: Flock Safety – Antioch CA PD Transparency Portal.
“With the Axon system, it’s a closed system,” he added.
The councilwoman then asked for reasons for the sole source purchase.
Mellone explained, “There are a few reasons. We’re already using Axon’s body-worn cameras. We’re already using their digital evidence platforms. We trusted Axon with our most sensitive digital evidence. We’ve never had a data breach. All of our personnel are trained in that system. I don’t have to run audits on multiple systems.”
Councilman Rocha spoke next saying, “I support the sole-source justification and the way it’s written. It is what’s most attractive to me.”
He then made the motion to approve the purchase, and as Torres-Walker took a moment to consider seconding after Freitas asked if she wanted to, Bernal said, “I’ll second it.”
Before the vote, Freitas asked, “When will they be implemented? The first phase, I guess?”
Mellone responded, “I don’t have the exact information, the timeline. I can report back to council on that. I don’t think it’s going to be a lengthy implementation.”
Referring to Torres-Walker’s comments Freitas then suggested an annual report to the council, “giving us the detailed information, positive or negative” and asked “the maker and seconder of the motion to add that…from the date the system is implemented.”
Both Rocha and Bernal agreed to the amendment to their motion.
Bernal then asked, “What is the timeline for moving away from Flock with this new system?”
“I think a lot of it depends on how soon we can get the new system up and running,” Mellone shared. He said he didn’t want to compromise existing investigations and asked if either he or the chief could return to the council with an implementation schedule. He also mentioned the additional cost for the Flock cameras as another motivation to replace them.
“So, would the Flock cameras go first, then? Would that be the strategy?” Bernal asked.
“I will make sure that the people involved…will replace the Flock cameras as a priority,” Mellone responded.
“The existing Flock contract we have another 12 months,” Chief Vigil stated.
“But we could end that,” Torres-Walker asked.
“I’d have to get with the City Attorney on ending that,” Vigil responded.
Freitas then asked that the police department leaders return in the next few weeks with answers to the council members questions.
The amended motion then passed on a 4-0 vote.
CCWD Water Supply Facilities Map. Antioch receives some of its water from CCWD.
Other Council Action
In other action, the Council voted 4-0 to approve the 2025 Urban Water Management Plan and the Water Shortage Contingency Plan. The City’s water supply consists primarily of surface water diverted from the San Joaquin River and water purchased from Contra Costa Water District (CCWD). Untreated surface water from the San Joaquin River is pumped to the City’s Municipal Reservoir, where it is stored prior to treatment at the City’s Water Treatment Plant. This untreated surface water may also be routed to the Brackish Water Desalination Plant (BWDP).
Photos: (l-r) Motorola, Herald file, Antioch PD
Plus, except for Items 6.H. and 6.K., the Council also unanimously approved the Consent Calendar which included the following:
Item 6.I. – the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the City of Antioch and the Antioch Police Officers’ Association including a 3% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for Fiscal Year 2026-27 at a cost of $661,430 and other matters;
Item 6.G. – the purchase of 30 additional Motorola APX N70 handheld two-way emergency radios for the police department’s communications, including accessories and five years of subscriber and device management services, from Motorola Solutions in an amount not to exceed $300,717.21;
Item 6.J. – received and approved the 2025 Annual Military Equipment Report from the police department. The equipment includes:
Armored Rescue Vehicle
Mobile Command Center box truck
Specialized Firearms and Ammunition:
A. Geissele Border Patrol Rifle. Quantity 26
B. Colt ArmaLite Rifle (AR)-15 rifle. Quantity 41
C. M4 AR-15 rifle. Quantity 6
D. Colt Commando Short Barrel (SB) rifle. Quantity 10
E. Heckler & Koch (H&K) UMP. Quantity 5
F. Remington 700 bolt action rifle. Quantity 5
G. Federal brand .223 caliber rifle ammunition. Quantity 326 cases
J. Cobalt Kinetics Scrambler Quick Detach Suppressor. Quantity 35
4. Kinetc Energy Projectile Launch Platforms and Projectiles
a. Penn Arms Model L140-4. Quantity 20.
b. Remington 870 Less lethal Shotgun. Quantity 2
i. Both have orange stocks and foregrips and are identified as non-lethal munition launchers.
c. Projectiles
i. Combined Tactical Systems (CTS) direct impact sponge round. Quantity 200
ii. CTS Frangible CS round. Quantity 60
iii. CTS Ferrett round. Quantity 100
iv. CTS LC5 Launching Cups. Quantity 4
v. CTS 2600 12-gauge launch cartridge. Quantity 60
According to the report, “The Antioch Police Department used specific military equipment in five incidents (in 2025). An audit…found no complaints regarding deploying or using the listed equipment. Internal audits of the listed equipment regarding deployment and use did not yield any policy violations or deployment concerns.”
City officials and residents join Antioch Mayor Ron Bernal in cutting the ribbon to officially re-open Jacobsen Park on Friday, Aug. 21, 2026, following renovations and improvements. Photos by Allen D. Payton
Almost $700,000 spent on renovations
By Allen D. Payton
City of Antioch officials held a Grand Re-Opening of the renovated Jacobsen Park in the northeast part of town Friday afternoon, Aug. 21, 2026. Mayor Ron Bernal, Mayor Pro Tem and District 3 Councilman Don Freitas, City Clerk Michael Mandy, Parks and Recreation Commissioners including Chari Dorothy Ellis, , Recreation Director Shahad Wright, Public Works Director Scott Buenting and other City staff were joined by children and residents from the nearby neighborhoods to cut the ribbon.
Children enjoy the play structure and swing, and large lawn at Jacobsen Park during the Grand Re-Opening.
As Bernal welcomed those in attendance and thanked City staff for their work on it, and Wright who thanked “the Public Works team” for their “support and dedication” and gave “a shout out to Buenting,” children enjoyed climbing on the play structure. Following the ceremony, adults and youth played basketball in the nearby half-court. Wright also acknowledged former Parks & Recreation Director Brad Helfenberger, who is now the City’s Information Systems Director, for initially leading the effort for the renovations.
Antioch Public Works Director Scott Buenting, Parks & Recreation Director Shahad Wright and Congressman Josh Harder’s District Representative and former Parks & Rec Commissioner Domonique King speak during the Jacobsen Park Grand Re-Opening and Ribbon Cutting.
Former Parks and Recreation Commissioner Domonique King, spoke on behalf of Congressman Josh Harder as his District Representative. “It is an honor to be here and celebrate the ribbon cutting of Jacobsen Park. If you know the Congressman, if he could be here, he definitely would be here, especially as he has two young girls who would have loved to enjoy this park, today. Congratulations and hope this park continues to be the center of the community that surrounds it.” Harder doesn’t currently represent portions of Antioch in the U.S. House of Representatives but is running for re-election in the newly drawn district.
According to the City, “A vintage neighborhood park received a much-welcomed makeover. Jacobsen Park’s many renovations and additions were revealed on Friday afternoon to an appreciative group of families from the Garrow Estates neighborhood.
“At one point in the 1960s this park, one of the oldest in Antioch, had a decommissioned front portion of a jet as its centerpiece attraction. Long-time residents still lovingly refer to this area as ‘Jet Park’.” Wright said children played on the jet.
A City staff member shoots hoops with residents at the basketball half-court in Jacobsen Park. Yes, he scored the two points.
“Jacobsen Park is now sure to offer new warm memories as was evident by the many children enjoying the newly installed play area.”
Approved by the City Council on August 27, 2024, the work by Frontline General Engineering Construction, Inc. of San Lorenzo was budgeted at a total of $695,830.55 and involved a full renovation of the existing park, including:
Clearing, grubbing and grading
Landscaping and irrigation facilities
Removal and installation of concrete flatwork
Basketball court rehabilitation
Hardscaping
Installation of underground utilities
Site furnishings and shade structures
Traffic control measures
Water pollution control
The play area has a rubberized flooring that offers a significant cushion when stepped on, and one shade structure includes a barbeque pit.
Front Row: City of Antioch Parks and Recreation Commission Chair Dorothy Ellis (center) and Commissioners (l-r) Vice Chair Alexander Broom, Ellen Greggs, Nichole Gardner and Lesley Eubanks are joined by Mayor Ron Bernal, Mayor Pro Tem & District 3 Councilman Don Freitas, (back row) Commissioner Jim Thor,Parks & Rec Director Shahad Wright, Public Works Director Scott Buenting, Information Systems Director and former Parks & Rec Director Brad Helfenberger and City Clerk Michael Mandy in front of the new play structure at Jacobsen Park. (Not pictured: Commissioner Shan Hunt)
“This has been a project that’s been under works for a little while,” Buenting shared. “It’s a good example of when our departments come together working through our operations and the Parks and Rec Department to get it designed and then get it built. On our side within the Capital Improvements department Nicky Cruz was out here, daily, with these crews making sure the work was done properly as our inspector, as well as our team of engineers, Mitchell Loving, (Assistant Engineer) Robert Pizarro and Paul Fuentes all had some involvement in this project.”
“I think it turned out great,” Buenting continued. “I’m super excited about the attendance that we had today. Thank you all for coming.”
State’s largest free database of public employee pay and pension information
New website is live – faster, mobile friendly and 100% ad free, giving 10 million users a clearer look at government pay and spending.
By Transparent California
Transparent California, the state’s largest database of public pay and pension data, has now obtained 2024 data covering over 93% of employee compensation and pension payments in our state. This includes state, county, city, school district, and special records.
Our team has collected almost 3 million compensation records documenting $278 billion in total pay and benefits, and 1.5 million pension records with $64 billion in payments. Since launching over a decade ago Transparent California has now collected and posted over 50 million compensation and pension records. All available free at http://transparentcalifornia.com.
This year we’ve made that site easier to use. Users report they love our site changes and web traffic has seen a tremendous increase, to over 2 million page views a month.
Photo: Transparent CA
Did you know in 2024 149,065 public employees made total compensation exceeding a quarter-million dollars a year? For more detail on what we’ve found in this data, go to our website and click on News and Updates for a summary.
And if you have a specific interest in an agency of our government, click “Get notified” on that agency’s page and you’ll get a notice when new data is posted.
Transparent California’s data collection schedule is determined by the State Controller’s Office reporting requirements. The inordinate delays allowed by the state, as well as significant resistance from some of the agencies involved, is why we’re just now wrapping up 2024.
Assembly Bill AB1821, if passed, would extend the time for a response from 14 calendar days to 14 “business days”, effectively be three weeks. This may sound small, but that deadline only applies to a “response”, not to provision of the actual records requested. Our legislature continues to ignore the current legislation has no defined deadline for production of the actual records, nor does it impose any penalty on agencies for delaying the process (or declining to respond altogether) even if the requester files a lawsuit and wins.
Transparent California’s Director of Research, Todd Maddison, notes “As we see more tax increase proposals appearing, we’re focused on giving the People the data they deserve to see how their existing tax dollars are being spent, so they can make informed decisions at the ballot box.”
Transparent California depends on the generosity of individual donors to enable this collection. Anyone with a specific interest in a particular agency can sponsor collection of their data and support the effort to provide the public with this service.
Share ideas, raise concerns, provide suggestionsonline or in person
By David Hafner, Office of Public Affairs, CDTFA
What: The Taxpayers’ Bill of Rights Meeting, on August 19, 2026, is an opportunity for taxpayers to provide valuable feedback on the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration’s (CDTFA) programs and procedures. Presided over by the Department’s Taxpayers’ Rights Advocate, Alfred Buck, the annual meeting encourages taxpayers to share ideas, raise concerns and provide suggestions. This meeting is open to everyone.
IN PERSON: May Lee State Office Complex Auditorium, 651 Bannon Street, Sacramento, CA 95811-0299 Those unable to attend in person can also participate by:
Telephone, toll-free at 844-767-5651, access code 8014689.
Enacted in January 1989, the Harris-Katz California Taxpayers’ Bill of Rights ensures that the rights of California taxpayers are protected during the assessment and collection of sales taxes. The Taxpayers’ Bill of Rights was expanded in 1993 to include special tax programs such as environmental fees, fuel taxes, and tobacco taxes.
The California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA) administers California’s sales and use, fuel, tobacco, alcohol and cannabis taxes, as well as other taxes and fees that fund specific state programs. CDTFA-administered programs accounted for more than $97.8 billion in the 2024/25 fiscal year, supporting essential local services such as transportation, public safety and health, libraries, schools, social services and natural resource management programs through the distribution of tax dollars directly to local communities.
To oversee process for Bay Area transit tax on Nov. ballot
By Metropolitan Transportation Commission
OAKLAND, CA – Updated Aug. 17, 2026 – The Public Transit Revenue Measure District (PTRMD) was established under Government Code Title 7.85, by Senate Bill 63 (2025), which also authorizes a regional transportation revenue measure to be placed on the November 2026 ballot, known as the Connect Bay Area Transit Initiative.
The PTRMD on Jan. 16, 2026, received a notice of intent from the Connect Bay Area Transit Committee to place a citizen’s initiative on the November 2026 ballot. Senate Bill 63, authored by state senators Scott Wiener of San Francisco and Jesse Arreguín of Berkeley, authorized a qualified voter initiative to impose a retail transactions and use tax ordinance applicable to the entire district for a duration of 14 years, in an amount of 0.5% in each of the counties located within the district and 1% in the City and County of San Francisco, subject to voter approval at the November 3, 2026, statewide general election.
On July 1, 2026, the District Elections Official issued a Certificate to Initiative Petition, certifying that proponents of the Connect Bay Area Transit Initiative submitted sufficient valid signatures for the measure to qualify for placement on the ballot.
The District at its July 24, 2026, meeting formally approved a resolution accepting the District Elections Official’s certification of the Connect Bay Area Transit initiative measure and requesting the Boards of Supervisors in Alameda, Contra Costa, San Francisco, San Mateo and Santa Clara counties to call a special election on the measure and to consolidate this special election with the November 3, 2026, statewide general election.
Impartial Analysis of Regional Transit Measure
Legal counsel for the Public Transit Revenue Measure District has prepared an impartial analysis of the Regional Transit Measure pursuant to subdivision (d) of Government Code 67740. This text will also be included in each county’s voter information guide per state law.
Notices of Election Provided by Santa Clara County
Santa Clara County Registrar of Voters provided the following notices of election:
Established election dates related to the measure can be found on the Santa Clara County Registrar of Voters (ROV) website. Please reference the most recently published Public Transit Revenue Measure District (PTRMD) calendars, which may be accessed at the SantaClaraCounty.gov website. If you are unable to access the link, please contact the Santa Clara County ROV directly for assistance.
Staff Contact
Kimberly Ward, District Elections Official Phone: 415-778-5367 Email: kward@bayareametro.gov
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Para solicitar asistencia, por favor llamemos al (415) 778-6757. Para telecomunicaciones para personas sordas y discapacitadas, favor de llamar al 711, el Servicio de Retransmisión de California (CRS) para TTY/VCO/HCO a Voz o para Voz a TTY/VCO/HCO al (800) 855-3000 y pedir que lo conecten al (415) 778-6700. Necesitamos aviso de al menos tres días hábiles de anticipación para proporcionar la asistencia adecuada.
Do you need one of our documents translated? Do you need written materials in large type or in Braille? Do you need a sign language interpreter or an interpreter who speaks your language in order to participate?
To request accommodation, please call (415) 778-6757. For TDD or hearing impaired, call 711, California Relay Service, or (800) 735-2929 (TTY), (800) 735-2922 (voice) and ask to be relayed to (415) 778-6700. We require at least three working days’ notice to accommodate requests.
City of Antioch’s General Plan Visioning Survey closes Monday, August 17
By City of Antioch
The City’s General Plan will help guide decisions about Antioch’s future, including how our community grows, develops, and evolves in the years ahead.
The City of Antioch is updating its General Plan, which provides goals, policies, and guidelines for the physical development of the City for the next ten to twenty years. The General Plan is intended to reflect the goals, values, and priorities of the Antioch community. The following questions will help the City gain a broad perspective of views and values in the community to help craft a General Plan that is reflective of local concerns and priorities. Your opinion and input are greatly appreciated. Please complete one survey per person.
This survey is available in English and Spanish. Please use the language selector at the top left of the survey to choose your preferred language.
Esta encuesta está disponible en inglés y español. Utilice el selector de idioma en la parte superior izquierda de la encuesta para elegir su idioma preferido.
Your input matters. If you haven’t taken the survey yet, now is the time to make your voice heard.
