Oath of office ceremony held Tuesday; brings staffing to 101 sworn; incentive program wasn’t a factor in recruitment

“I guarantee the people of Antioch that these six officers are what they expect law enforcement officers to be. Caring, compassionate, humble and professional.” – Academy Trainer Robert McManus

By Allen D. Payton

During an oath of office ceremony at the Antioch Police Facility on Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2023, six new officers were sworn in. Four of the officers had their badges pinned by their wives, while one was pinned by his sister, and another had his pinned by an APD lieutenant. The ceremony was held in the department’s Community Room as family, friends, fellow APD officers and staff, and District 3 Councilwoman Lori Ogorchock looked on.

The additions bring the current force to 101 sworn officers out of 115 in the budget. However, there are 51 officers on leave mostly due to the two investigations. The new officers will soon be fully ready to help protect the city once they complete their field training.

“This is the largest group of officers we’ve ever sworn in at the same time,” said Acting Chief Joe Vigil who read their bios as each one was introduced. He later said, “Very proud of these guys. A majority of these guys started with us three or four months before the academy, building the foundation, learning report writing, legal statutes, plus, physical training to face the rigors of the academy. Some of these guys have been with us in a training capacity for nine months. We’ve been stressing how this department will look and how this group is different in training, influencing and giving them the tools during a very trying time of policing. This group has been all about us from the beginning and they are dedicated to us and the city. That’s what will make them tremendous officers.”

Officer Kyle Armstrong was pinned with his badge by his wife Britney.

“Kyle was born in Fremont and graduated from Freedom high school. At Freedom high school, he played and excelled in golf lettering all four years and played in the state qualifier in 2004 to 2006,” Vigil shared. “He enlisted in the army in 2010 and spent 10 years as a Sergeant for communications units. His postings include Fort Bragg, North Carolina, and Camp Parks, California to include two deployments, one in Iraq, and one in Somalia. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his wife, Britney, and his four kids, Kayden 11, Peyton 9, Everly 2 and Tucker 2 months. He also enjoys golfing and camping with his friends and family. 

Fun fact: Kyle directly supported a Two-Star General while attached to Joint Operations in Africa.”

Officer Najee Bailey was pinned by his wife Deborah.

Vigil shared, “Najee was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois and graduated from Wheeler high school. At WHS, Najee excelled in basketball and was a part of the state championship team in 2010. He then began his education at Oakton community college on a partial scholarship for his academics. In his free time, Najee enjoys the sport of bodybuilding. He competed in his first competition in September 2021 and took second place. Najee was employed by the Department of State for the last five years as a diplomatic officer. Now she is looking forward to being a part of the Antioch PD family. 

Fun fact: Najee plans to earn his bodybuilding pro card while serving as a public servant.”

Bailey later shared that he worked for the State Department in San Francisco.

Officer Bryan Cruz Guzman was pinned by his sister Ariana Cruz.

“Bryan was born in Berkeley and was raised in Richmond. He later moved to Antioch, and currently still lives here. He graduated from freedom high school in Oakley, California,” Vigil said. “While in high school, he played soccer as a goalkeeper. While being a goalkeeper, he was able to play against very high-level teams and compete with colleges all around the bay area. During his free time, he enjoys spending time with his family and working out.

Fun fact: Bryan enjoys singing Hispanic music with his father Juan.”

Officer Joshua Pachan was pinned by his wife Kimberly.

Vigil shared, “Josh was born and raised in Pittsburg and graduated from Riverside High School. After high school, he enrolled in WyoTech and worked for Mike’s auto body for the last nine years. Josh has been married to his wonderful wife Kimberly for 15 years. Josh is a proud Antioch resident and looks forward to serving the community he lives in. In his free time, Josh enjoys hiking, shooting, and watching sports.

Fun fact: Josh’s great grandfather was a Constable for the city of Pittsburg.”

Officer Justin Posey was pinned by his wife Kasie.

“Justin was born and raised in Martinez and graduated from Briones Valley independent study,” Vigil said. “He grew up racing motorcycles and raced professionally for numerous years. For the past 16 years, Justin has worked for Drill Tech as a project manager. Justin is married to his wonderful wife, Kasie, and they have two children, Olivia, 5 and Jett 3. In his free time, he enjoys working out, shooting and working on motorcycles.

Fun fact: Justin’s nickname is J-PO.”

Officer Vincent Starzyk was pinned by Sgt. Lauren Bledsoe who said about the new recruit, “He got the overall top performance award for his academy.”

According to Vigil, “Vincent was born and raised in Antioch and graduated from Deer Valley High School. At DVHS, Vincent excelled in wrestling and was offered the chance to wrestle internationally and in the United States world team. He declined the offer to pursue his dream of becoming a police officer. In his free time, he likes to play video games, shoot guns, work out, and ride his motorcycles. Vincent‘s mom, Shannon is the Director of the Family Justice Center in Antioch, and was a deputy sheriff for 12 years. Vincent’s dad Paul was a police officer for the city of Pleasant Hill. He eventually lateraled to the city of Martinez and was promoted to the rank of Sergeant. Sergeant Starzyk tragically lost his life in the line of duty on September 6, 2008. Vincent wants to pursue a career as a Police Officer to continue the legacy of his parents. 

Fun fact: Vincent was a rescue diver from middle school to high school.”

Acting City Manager Kwame Reed, who attended the ceremony, offered his thoughts on the new hires.

“This is very exciting to see six new officers join our Antioch Police Department,” he said. “Seeing the enthusiasm on their faces made me feel really good. I’m looking forward to when they hit the streets and add to our numbers. I look forward to seeing more recruits in the near future.”

“Great group of officers,” Bledsoe, Vice President of the Antioch Police Officers’ Association simply said following the ceremony.

Five of the six new officers were asked if the hiring incentive program was part of their decision to join APD.

Armstrong said, “No. I wouldn’t say so. I grew up in the area and wanted to work somewhere close. I had people tell me I should consider other agencies. But I met a lot of people here. I didn’t get the impression that something bad was going on. The people that are in-house are good. The opportunity for that to be seen will be good.”

Pachan replied, “I didn’t even know of it when I first applied. I’d been thinking of applying specifically with Antioch.”

“We’re part of the community so we want to make the community better,” his wife Kimberly added.

“No. I didn’t even know it was in effect,” said Posey. “One of my best friends works here. That was my deciding factor.”

To the same question Cruz Guzman said, “No sir. I was raised here in Antioch. So it’s my own city. The city means more to me than most people. That’s the reason I came here.”

Starzyk also said, “No. You know I’ve always had a deep love for Antioch. It was pretty much the only department I was considering. I applied to the Sheriff’s Department, but Antioch was screaming to me. I have this love for Antioch and its people.”

Asked how many were in the academy, he said, “We started out with 63 and finished with 49 in his class.”

Robert McManus, a retired San Leandro Police lieutenant and currently an instructor with the Alameda County Sheriff’s Academy, who also attended the ceremony at the request of Starzyk, spoke highly of the recruits.

“I had the pleasure of being involved throughout the 28-week academy in training the next generation of Antioch’s law enforcement officers,” McManus stated. “I guarantee the people of Antioch that these six officers are what they expect law enforcement officers to be. Caring, compassionate, humble and professional. They will exceed Antioch’s expectations.”

Regarding the incentive program, Mayor Lamar Thorpe, who did not attend the ceremony, said later, “It has increased the pool of candidates. It wasn’t created to recruit officers. We weren’t attracting candidates. But interest went up. It doesn’t mean every candidate will qualify or want to participate in our department. People don’t become officers because of an incentive program.”

“We’re trying to provide the department with as many tools as possible,” he continued. “I think the changes and reforms we’ve made have attracted candidates. We get new officers. We don’t get many laterals. I believe we’re attracting new officers who are embracing the changes.”

“I’m just excited that our recruiting efforts are working, and I look forward to officially welcoming these officers at a council meeting in the near future,” Thorpe added.

APOA attorney says City claims there aren’t any; council will address lawsuit during tonight’s closed session Tuesday

Thorpe claims he doesn’t use personal cell phone for city business; issues statement calling lawsuit “intimidation tactics”

Attorney says during five months of the text scandal investigation only 5 or 6 cops on leave of the 15 or 16 his office represents have been interviewed

“So, they’re just sitting there earning money because of the disfunction of the City leaders” – Mike Rains, APOA attorney

By Allen D. Payton

During their meeting tonight, Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2023, the Antioch City Council will address in closed session a lawsuit by the Antioch Police Officers’ Association (APOA). Asked about reasons for the lawsuit the APOA’s attorney, Mike Rains, said it’s to obtain Mayor Lamar Thorpe’s phone records because the City won’t provide them, claiming they couldn’t find any. The Public Records Act request covers the nine days prior to Thorpe’s Wednesday, March 30th press conference when he spoke about the investigation into the racist text scandal among Antioch officers. (See related article)

In that press conference, Thorpe read from prepared text saying, “Monday I received some information that has arisen from an ongoing investigation of the Antioch Police Department. Several additional officers have been placed on administrative leave. Let me be very clear I’m not here to confirm the number of officers that are involved nor am I here to confirm any rumors or speculations about the nature of what was discovered.”

Since that time, about 35 officers have been on leave, all paid until last month when three of the officers who have been charged with crimes by the Contra Costa DA’s Office, were placed on unpaid leave.

The lawsuit (Case number N23-1629 in Contra Costa Superior Court) is seeking “records reflecting telephone calls, emails, and text messages sent or received by City of Antioch Mayor Lamar Thorpe concerning the initiation of a non-criminal administrative investigation into allegations of misconduct by City of Antioch police officers concerning text or email messages allegedly containing graphic references to issues regarding race, ethnicity or national original, or sexual preference and/or sexual identification, which have become the subject of media scrutiny.”

“This started months ago,” Rains explained. “We sent a Public Records Act request to the City to get the records from the mayor’s phone, texts, emails and phone calls to others, from about March 21-30, the nine days before his March 30th news conference announcing that this investigation of the text messaging was going on. He couldn’t provide details. The chief had not given him any information at all. He claimed the city manager had briefed him. But the city manager didn’t know anything. So, where was he getting his information?”

“Larry Wallace from the DA’s office had put together his two reports on the texting and I believe Thorpe was getting his information from Wallace directly,” Rains stated. “I don’t know. But we have a right to know where he’s getting his information about public business. It’s a public record.”

“We asked for that information but the former assistant city attorney who quit during a meeting and just walked out, wrote us a letter asking for a extension, saying ‘we need to look at it,’” Rains shared. “Then we give her the extension then she sent us a letter claiming they didn’t have anything.”

“So, we asked how she had searched the mayor’s phone. We got crickets,” he continued. “Then we sent another letter asking for the same thing and threatened but they didn’t respond. So, we did. That’s what tomorrow is about.”

“They have to do a search according to state Supreme Court based on a case out of the City of San Jose, that had to do with records requests for council members private phones,” Rains said. “I have a feeling they never did the search. I’m sure the mayor has since tried to delete everything. That would probably cause us to get the phone and do a forensic analysis to get all the deleted messages.”

Text Scandal Investigation

Regarding the investigation of the officers on leave for the racist text scandal, Rains said, “The city’s lawyers who they’ve retained and another group that they’ve retained to do something else, they’re going through all kinds of law firms, including the few interviews of the cops on leave for the texts. They’ve only done about five or six interviews. They still have about seven or eight guys they need to interview, guys who shouldn’t be on leave at the request of the mayor and the city attorney, not with the support of Chief Ford.”

“We had all these interviews set up for 15 of the cops but at first, they said they were only going to do one interview,” he continued. “I think we’ve had three different investigators, now, that have done the five or six interviews. The first one from Los Angeles didn’t even show up. Then they hired the Hispanic lady. She was nice and did one or two interviews. Then they hired some guy who did a couple interviews.”

As previously reported, City Attorney Thomas L. Smith hired Cerritos, CA-based Angela Powell, a partner in the law firm of Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo, to conduct the investigation of the text messages. She has 26 years’ experience as an attorney. Her services ended by Monday, May 15, the day the interviews of the officers were to begin. In her place, the City hired San Jose-based attorney Allison Hernandez, a Senior Associate with the law firm of Burke, Williams & Sorensen who earned her law degree in 2016.

Asked about Powell, Rains said, “She said she was going to be fair. She wasn’t going to let anyone tell her what to do. The next thing I know is we had another lady showing up to do the interviews. I think she didn’t find anything they could do.”

Asked about the other officers on leave Rains said, “I don’t know what they did with Rombough. We don’t represent him. I don’t know how many they think they still need to interview. We don’t represent all these guys. We represent somewhere around 15 or 16 cops on leave, who were mostly recipients of group texts. Of those they’ve only interviewed half in about five months.”

“So, they’re just sitting there earning money because of the disfunction of the City leaders,” he added.

Asked if there is any communication between his office and the investigators Rains stated, “No. The city attorney and the mayor have cut the investigators out of any communication with the department. Even Chief Ford couldn’t speak with them. Usually in the scheme of things, when outside investigators are hired, the chief coordinates it, working with staff setting up interviews. Ford wasn’t even in the picture.”

“All the attorneys have been brought in by the city attorney,” Rains continued. “So, the chief isn’t involved in any of it, and I think that includes the current, acting chief. He’s just sitting on the sidelines, too.”

Asked if he knows when the interviews and the investigation will conclude, Rains replied, “No idea.”

Questions for Thorpe, City Attorney

Questions were sent to both Thorpe and City Attorney Smith Monday night giving them until noon Tuesday to respond.

They were asked if Rains’ claims are true that the City won’t provide the records from the mayor’s personal phone from March 21-30 because they claim there aren’t any.

Thorpe was asked, if that is true, if he had deleted any phone calls, text or email messages on his phone from that period.

They were also asked if it’s not true, and there are records of phone calls, text and email messages from the mayor’s phone, why haven’t they been provided if they are a public record.

Thorpe was then asked if he has a city-issued phone that he uses for city business and if not, how does he communicate with members of the public and others regarding city-related business.

Finally, the mayor was asked if he received his information about the text scandal from anyone in the Contra Costa DA’s Office, including Larry Wallace.

Smith was then asked if only five or six of the 15 or 16 officers represented by Rains’ law firm have been interviewed by the outside investigators. He was also asked, “If so, why haven’t they all been interviewed yet in the five months since they’ve been placed on leave and when will they be interviewed?” If that’s not correct, how many of the 35 or so officers on leave have been interviewed during the investigation? Have the outside investigators been given a deadline for completing the interview and investigation and providing you and the city council with a final report?”

Thorpe Says He Doesn’t Use Personal Cell Phone, Uses Home Landline for City Business

Thorpe said he doesn’t use his personal cell phone for city business, but uses his home landline, instead.

“I use this phone, right here,” he stated during a phone call Tuesday morning. “I have another cell phone but I don’t give out that number as too many people have my other number and I get texts and phone calls on that.”

Labels APOA’s Lawsuit “Intimidation Tactics”

Later, on Tuesday afternoon, Thorpe posted on his official social media accounts the following:

Statement Regarding Antioch Police Union’s Intimidation Tactics

“I’m deeply troubled and disappointed that the Antioch Police Officers Association -a.k.a. the Police Union- still doesn’t get it.

Current and former members of the Antioch Police Department are being indicted by the US Department of Justice. Several more are being charged with state crimes by the Contra Costa District Attorney.

Two state agencies are investigating the department including California’s attorney general. The city is currently investigating members for racist text messages discovered by the FBI.

And, lastly, the city council approved my request for audits of the internal affairs process, hiring and promotions practices, and to examine patterns and practices.

Right now, the police union should be working with my colleagues and me to build a department that is reflective of our city’s values. Instead, the police union is busy trying to intimidate me and City Hall with the same old, tired tactics of yesteryear by aiming to turn me into the 800-pound gorilla in the room.”

Because it didn’t answer the questions posed to him or explain how there are no record of texts, emails or phone calls as requested by the APOA’s attorney, Thorpe was again asked if he uses a city-issued cell phone. He was also asked when he stopped using his personal cell phone for city-related business. He did not respond prior to Tuesday’s closed session meeting which began at 6:00 p.m. or by publication time.

Smith also did not respond prior to publication time.

UPDATE #1: Rains Responds to Thorpe’s Statement

In response to Thorpe’s statement Rains wrote, “It’s nonsense.  We have been trying to get a straight answer from the City for five months concerning calls/texts/emails sent and/or received by Thorpe with other City or DA employees in the week or so preceding his March 30 press conference announcing the texting investigation, even though no text messages had been released to the City or the media before March 30.  The City refused our request to describe any search conducted of his cell phone for the information, and we told them if they continued to refuse our request for transparency, we would seek relief in Superior Court.  They did nothing and we were forced to file the writ.”

UPDATE #2: Following Tuesday night’s closed session, Attorney Smith reported out about the lawsuit stating, “no reportable action.”

UPDATE #3 (9/27/23): When reached later for comment asking again when he stopped using his personal cell phone for city business Thorpe said, “I’m not going to answer any questions related to the investigation.” But the mayor did say he doesn’t have a city-issued cell phone.

Result of effort by countywide task force; held on $700,000 bail

By Ted Asregadoo, PIO, Contra Costa County Office of the District Attorney

A 28-year-old resident of Antioch was charged today in a seven-count felony complaint by the Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office for the production and distribution of child pornography.

Michelle Nicole Hidalgo was arrested on Friday, September 22, 2023, by the Contra Costa County Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Officers served Hidalgo with a search warrant at her home and seized equipment used in the production and distribution of pornographic images of minors. The search of Hidalgo’s home and her arrest came after task force members were notified by a social media company on September 21st that child sexual abuse materials (CSAM) of a small child were being shared on their platform.

At the time of her arrest in Antioch, Hidalgo was working part-time as a nanny for the victim’s family.

Hidalgo remains in the custody of the Contra Costa County Sheriff and her bail has been set at $700,000. She will make her first court appearance on Wednesday, September 27, 2023, in Martinez.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, Hidalgo is 5’3”, 250 lbs. and Hispanic and born on born on December 23, 1994 and is being held in the Martinez Detention Facility on $800,000 bail. Her Facebook profile shows she lives in Antioch and is from Pacifica, CA where she studied at Terra Nova High School.

The case is being prosecuted by the Sexual Assault Unit of the Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office. It was investigated by the Contra Costa County Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, in which detectives and investigators from the Walnut Creek, Concord, Pleasant Hill, Brentwood, Pittsburg, San Ramon, Danville, Oakley, and Moraga Police Departments, the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, United States Secret Service, Homeland Security Investigations, and Inspectors from the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office participate on the task force.

Anyone with relevant information is asked to contact Senior Inspector Darryl Holcombe, dholcombe@contracostada.org.

Case information: | The People of the State of California v. Hidalgo, Michelle Nicole

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

6 more officers to be added to the force tomorrow; only 44 positions in service out of 115 authorized

Auto thefts up 85.7%, burglaries increased a 62.5% and robberies up 47.2% compared to last year

By Allen D. Payton

During next Tuesday’s closed session portion of their meeting the Antioch City Council will receive information on a lawsuit by the Antioch Police Officers Association (APOA) and will receive a report from Acting Chief Vigil on police department staffing and activities.

The presentation is in response to District 2 Councilman Mike Barbanica’s request and following discussion during the council’s September 12th meeting of hiring retired officers to supplement the currently depleted ranks of police force. That’s due to 16 unfilled positions and the 51 officers on leave mainly from the two police scandals and investigations.

“The chief will provide a presentation so we can make a determination if we want to hire retired officers,” Barbanica shared. “Tamisha supported having the presentation, as well.”

On the closed session agenda, the council will deal with, “Significant exposure to litigation pursuant to California Government Code section 54956.9(d)(2): Antioch Police Officers Association v. City of Antioch et al., Superior Court of the State of California, Contra Costa County, Case No. N23-1629.”

Attempts to reach APOA attorney Mike Rains for details of the lawsuit were unsuccessful prior to publication time.

Acting Police Chief’s Update

The council will also receive a report from Acting Police Chief Joe Vigil about the department staffing and activities. The report shows there are currently 115 authorized positions, 95 of those positions are filled, but only 44 are positions are in service, 31 officers are assigned to patrol. The department is averaging over 100 calls per shift, on a modified work schedule with seven officers assigned to investigations who are averaging a case load of just over 300 cases, and seven detectives are doing all filing and follow up.

His report also shows the latest Part I Crime statistics comparing this year to last year, of a 33.3% increase in homicides, 62.5% increase in burglaries, robberies up 47.2% and theft increased 19.4%. The report also offers some good news showing a 57.1% decrease in arson, rapes down 25.8% and aggravated assaults decreased by 18.2%. Overall Part I Crime increased by 31.09%.

Recently, Vigil shared that there are currently 12 recruits in the academy and six officers will be given their oaths of office during a ceremony earlier in the day on Tuesday.

The closed session begins at 6:00 p.m. and the regular meeting begins at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Antioch City Hall, 200 H Street. The meeting can be viewed on Comcast Cable Channel 24, AT&T U-verse Channel 99 or live stream on the City’s website. Those who wish to speak during public comments must attend in person. See complete meeting agenda, here.

Please check back later for updates to this report.

Leaves it with city manager after Torres-Walker adds sunset clause opposed by Thorpe

By Allen D. Payton

During their meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2023, on the second reading of the ordinance for directly hiring the police chief, the Antioch City Council voted 2-3 after Mayor Pro Tem Tamisha Torres-Walker added an amendment to sunset the ordinance of 12 months or hiring a permanent city manager. Her compromise was supported by District 4 Councilwoman Monica Wilson but opposed by Mayor Lamar Thorpe.

During their meeting on August 22, the council voted 3-2 to changing the City’s organizational structure by transferring from the city manager to the city council the authority to appoint, supervise and remove the police chief, with District 2 Councilman Mike Barbanica and District 3 Councilwoman Lori Ogorchock voting no. But it required a second reading and vote.

During discussion of the motion before that vote, Torres-Walker proposed a time limit of possibly one year for the authority to revert back to the city manager which was supported by District 4 Councilwoman Monica Wilson. But that was not included in the motion the council adopted.

In a post on her official Facebook page on Monday, Sept. 11, Torres-Walker posted a video and reiterated her support for a time limit writing, “Chief of police oversight…after some refleacting [sic] I believe that the comprise I attempted to offer my colleagues on Council was a reasonable one.”

After Barbanica requested the item be removed from the Sept. 12th consent calendar so it could be voted on separately, Torres-Walker followed up on her commitment saying, “I offered the compromise because, one, most of us work full time. We also want to have a close eye and a transparent process for hiring of a new chief. But I just do not think this new policy should be the order of the day. I do think we need to have a term to time this policy out whether it’s 12 months or upon the hire of the permanent city manager. That is the compromise I’m offering today or else I will not be voting to move forward with this ordinance.” (See 3:06:40 mark of council meeting video)

But Thorpe said, “I’m personally sticking with the original proposal.”

“Then there will never be oversight,” he said about Torres-Walker’s proposal.

“The purpose of this was towards accountability, transparency and all that good stuff,” the mayor continued. “But I can’t personally support your policy. If you can’t support it without that in it then it just won’t pass.”

Torres-Walker responded, “then it just won’t pass, and we can move on.”

“Yep,” Thorpe replied.

District 4 Councilwoman Monica Wilson then offered her support for the compromise saying when it first proposed, “I was very interested. Over the last couple weeks…I’ve had an opportunity to think more and more about it and I’m in agreement with you. I support you with that.”

“Being reasonable is what I’m asking for,” Torres-Walker stated.

“We’d have to bring it back for a new reading,” said City Attorney Thomas L. Smith.

She then made a motion to amend the ordinance to add a sunset of 12 months and/or the hiring of a permanent city manager. But the proposed amended ordinance failed on a 2-3 vote with Thorpe joining Barbanica and Ogorchock in voting no.

“Seeing there’s no other motion we’ll move on,” Thorpe stated.

Antioch Council reverses course on directly hiring police chief

Leaves it with city manager after Torres-Walker adds sunset clause opposed by Thorpe

By Allen D. Payton

PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Apologies for the late publication of this article. I have been recovering from surgery over the past few weeks. Thank you for the prayers and well wishes to those readers who offered them.

During their meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2023, on the second reading of the ordinance for directly hiring the police chief, the Antioch City Council voted 2-3 after Mayor Pro Tem Tamisha Torres-Walker added an amendment to sunset the ordinance of 12 months or hiring a permanent city manager. Her compromise was supported by District 4 Councilwoman Monica Wilson but opposed by Mayor Lamar Thorpe.

During their meeting on August 22, the council voted 3-2 to changing the City’s organizational structure by transferring from the city manager to the city council the authority to appoint, supervise and remove the police chief, with District 2 Councilman Mike Barbanica and District 3 Councilwoman Lori Ogorchock voting no. But it required a second reading and vote.

During discussion of the motion before that vote, Torres-Walker proposed a time limit of possibly one year for the authority to revert back to the city manager which was supported by District 4 Councilwoman Monica Wilson. But that was not included in the motion the council adopted.

In a post on her official Facebook page on Monday, Sept. 11, Torres-Walker posted a video and reiterated her support for a time limit writing, “Chief of police oversight…after some refleacting [sic] I believe that the comprise I attempted to offer my colleagues on Council was a reasonable one.”

After Barbanica requested the item be removed from the Sept. 12th consent calendar so it could be voted on separately, Torres-Walker followed up on her commitment saying, “I offered the compromise because, one, most of us work full time. We also want to have a close eye and a transparent process for hiring of a new chief. But I just do not think this new policy should be the order of the day. I do think we need to have a term to time this policy out whether it’s 12 months or upon the hire of the permanent city manager. That is the compromise I’m offering today or else I will not be voting to move forward with this ordinance.” (See 3:06:40 mark of council meeting video)

But Thorpe said, “I’m personally sticking with the original proposal.”

“Then there will never be oversight,” he said about Torres-Walker’s proposal.

“The purpose of this was towards accountability, transparency and all that good stuff,” the mayor continued. “But I can’t personally support your policy. If you can’t support it without that in it then it just won’t pass.”

Torres-Walker responded, “then it just won’t pass, and we can move on.”

“Yep,” Thorpe replied.

District 4 Councilwoman Monica Wilson then offered her support for the compromise saying when it first proposed, “I was very interested. Over the last couple weeks…I’ve had an opportunity to think more and more about it and I’m in agreement with you. I support you with that.”

“Being reasonable is what I’m asking for,” Torres-Walker stated.

“We’d have to bring it back for a new reading,” said City Attorney Thomas L. Smith.

She then made a motion to amend the ordinance to add a sunset of 12 months and/or the hiring of a permanent city manager. But the proposed amended ordinance failed on a 2-3 vote with Thorpe joining Barbanica and Ogorchock in voting no.

“Seeing there’s no other motion we’ll move on,” Thorpe stated.

Third candidate to announce for District 5 to replace Glover; touts major endorsements

On Thursday, September 21, Antioch City Councilman, business owner, retired police lieutenant Mike Barbanica announced his campaign for Contra Costa County Supervisor District 5. The campaign held its kick-off event later that evening at the Deputy Sheriff’s Association Hall in Martinez.

“We had a better turnout than expected,” Barbanica shared following the event. “We had well over 100. All the tables were full. It could not have been a more successful event. It was incredible.”

Barbanica is a 21-year veteran of the Pittsburg Police Department, where he retired in 2007 as a police lieutenant and earned the Bronze Medal of Valor Award for his service. Barbanica and his team were credited by the police chief with bringing about a 20% decrease in crime. Barbanica and his wife Kristine are the owners of Blue Line Property Group where they help local families access affordable housing. In 2020, Barbanica, a Democrat, was elected to the Antioch City Council and currently represents District 2.

“I am thrilled to announce my campaign for Supervisor for Contra Costa County District 5,” Barbanica said. “With over 20 years of experience protecting our community as a police officer and now an elected councilmember with a thriving small business that is taking on the housing crisis, I will proudly put my public service track record up against all-comers while I continue to fight for Contra Costa families. I will do what it takes to ensure Contra Costa County is a place where every family has an equal opportunity to thrive. I will use my experience as a long-time police officer and now councilmember to tackle the housing crisis, ensure we get serious about public safety, and build a stronger community for all who call Contra Costa County home.”

Barbanica is a real estate broker and owns Blue Line Property Management in Antioch handling both residential and commercial real estate sales, leasing and management.

Barbanica is running for Contra Costa County Supervisorial District 5, which spans the north shore of Contra Costa County, including the cities of Hercules, Martinez and Pittsburg, and portions of Antioch and the unincorporated communities of Alhambra Valley, Bay Point, Briones, Rodeo, Pacheco, Crockett, Tormey, Port Costa, Mt. View, Vine Hill, Reliez Valley, and Clyde. 

He enters the race with a growing list of influential and respected endorsers, including Mary Knox, Contra Costa County Deputy District Attorney,  Sue Rainey, former Mayor of Walnut Creek, Mary Erbez, former Mayor of Pittsburg, Frank Aiello, former Mayor of Pittsburg, Angelica Lopez, Pittsburg City Councilmember, Tony Oerlemans, Brentwood City Councilmember, Sean Wright, former Mayor of Antioch, and Arne Simonsen, former Antioch City Clerk and City Councilmember, as well as the United Steelworkers Local 326.

So far, he will face Pittsburg Mayor Shanelle Preston and Pittsburg Councilman Jelani Killings in the primary election in March. Filing closes December 8.

More About Barbanica

Barbanica, a lifelong resident of Antioch, is the small business owner of Blue Line Property Group in Antioch. He has received numerous awards for his teaching and coaching of others, including the California and Hawaii Region “Outstanding Brokerage of the Year” and the region’s “Broker of the Year.” Barbanica also authored an international bestselling book. 

Before serving residents’ real estate needs, he began his career with the Pittsburg Police Department where he served 21 years and retired in 2007 as a police lieutenant. On the force, Barbanica ran a street level narcotic and crime unit for six years that was credited with reducing crime by 23% in Pittsburg.

In 2020, Barbanica was elected to represent District 2 on the Antioch City Council where he’s been cracking down on dilapidated properties, improving public safety, and getting small businesses the funds they need to succeed. 

Barbanica is also active in the Antioch community, is a member of the Elk’s Club, the local Knights of Columbus, the Peace Officers Research Association of California, the National Association of Realtors, the Pittsburg Italian American Club, and other service organizations. 

Barbanica is married to Kristine Barbanica, and together they have raised three children in the Antioch community and are grandparents to 4 grandchildren.

For more information on Barbanica for Contra Costa County Supervisor, please visit www.mikebarbanica.com.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Start logging your rides today.

Enjoy the Mokelumne Trail Bridge Bike Ride from Antioch BART Station Plaza on Sept. 30

Friday, September 1, 2023, marked the official start of the Bay Area’s eighth-annual Transit Month. Hosted by San Francisco Transit Riders and Seamless Bay Area with support from local transit agencies, including BART, Transit Month toasts the many trains, buses, and ferries that connect the region and uplift its communities, economies, and cultures.  

During Transit Month, riders are encouraged to explore the region by taking local transportation. The month is hallmarked by a multitude of free events, a Ride Contest, ride-a-longs with transit leaders, a Rider First Awards ceremony, and more. 

Some of the BART-centric events to look forward to this year include: 

Mokelumne Trail Bridge Bike Ride from Antioch BART Station Plaza on Sept. 30, organized by Bike East Bay 

Ride with Bike East Bay to the new bike/walk bridge over Hwy 4 in deep east Contra Costa County. The bridge now provides a safer route between Antioch and Brentwood, including a connection to the Mokelumne Trail which continues to the east through Brentwood, and to the west through Pittsburg and Bay Point. On this ride we will explore the connection from the Antioch eBART station to the bridge, and then back along the Delta de Anza Trail.

Details: September 30, 2023 | 10:00 am – 1:00 pm 

Address: Antioch BART Station Plaza, 1600 Slatten Ranch Rd, Antioch, CA 94509

RSVP: https://bikeeastbay.org/events/mokelumne-trail-hwy-4-bike-bridge-grand-opening-ride-antioch/

Hosted by: Bike East Bay

Meet the BART Anime Mascots on Sept. 16  
Beat the Ridership Record All Aboard Bay Area Transit Day on Sept. 16 
Transit CEO Ride-Along and Happy Hour on Sept. 29 
BART Scavenger Hunt from Sept. 1 through 21, organized by Young Professionals in Transportation

Read about the upcoming events and RSVP here.   

Last year, riders logged more than 3,000 regional transit trips during the monthlong celebration, and we’re hoping to see even more rides logged this year! 

“It’s no secret that the past few years have been hard on our transit, and though we scraped by a budget win recently, it’s not enough. That’s why we need to uplift transit all September long and highlight how necessary it is to keep our city equitable, equal, and fun,” said Thea Selby, Board Co-Chair of San Francisco Transit Riders, which created Transit Month. “It is more important than ever before that we show our elected leaders how important transit is to our city, and that we need to continue funding it. Let’s prove that to them this Transit Month by getting out and taking transit!”

Transit Month prizes are awarded to riders who log the most trips during the Ride Contest. But logging the most rides isn’t the only way to get a prize; this year, when a rider logs a trip, their name will be entered into a raffle.  

“We’re expecting Transit Month to be bigger than ever before with more events, more participating agencies, and more community group involvement,” said Ian Griffiths, the co-founder and policy director of Seamless Bay Area, which co-hosts the monthlong celebration. “One of the things we’re most excited about is our community grant program, where we’re distributing 11 small community grants to get more groups involved.” 

Transit Month prizes this year include lots of transit agency swag, as well as behind-the-scenes tours of sites not typically accessible to the public, like the Salesforce Transit Center.  

The rider who logs the most BART trips this Transit Month will win an HO scale BART A car made by Rapido Trains (the model trains are currently available for preorder on railgoods.com). This museum-quality model will arrive inside a custom-made display case, allowing the rider to proudly show off their best-in-the-Bay Transit Month performance (Delivery is estimated Summer 2024). Other BART prizes up include a BARTable swag bag with promotional prizes, a poster-size BART map, and a BART anime mascot swag bag. Hear from last year’s BART Ride Contest winner below.

By Timothy Leong, Director of Communications and Community Relations, 4CD

The Contra Costa Community College District (4CD) has announced changes to its Full-time Free Tuition Program for Contra Costa College (CCC), Diablo Valley College (DVC) and Los Medanos College (LMC) students beginning the fall 2023 semester. The expansion of this free tuition program, formerly known as FT3, removes the previous requirement that participants must be a first-time student, and opens the door to full-time students who have previously taken college courses or even completed a degree.

To receive free tuition for up to two academic years, CCC, DVC, and LMC students must meet the following requirements:

• Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or California Dream Act Application (CADA) for the current academic year;
• Enroll in a minimum of 12 units; and
• Be a California resident or otherwise exempt from paying non-resident tuition fees.

Students are not required to qualify for financial aid, demonstrate financial need or meet any income requirements. Although the Full-time Free Tuition Program waives the $46 per unit enrollment/tuition fees at 4CD colleges, participating students are still responsible to pay for other expenses such as books, supplies, and materials fees required by their classes.

“We are very excited to expand the Full-time Free Tuition Program to students who have previously attended college”, said Interim Chancellor Mojdeh Mehdizadeh. “This cost-saving option provides the financial incentive returning full-time students may need to achieve their higher education objectives with us.”

To learn more about 4CD’s Full-time Free Tuition Program, please visit: https://www.4cd.edu/insite/full-time-free-tuition-program/ 

The Contra Costa Community College District (4CD) is one of the largest multi-college community college districts in California. The 4CD serves 1.2 million residents, and its boundaries encompass all but 48 of the 734-square-mile land area of Contra Costa County. 4CD is home to Contra Costa College in San Pablo, Diablo Valley College with campuses in Pleasant Hill and San Ramon, and Los Medanos College with campuses in Pittsburg and Brentwood. The District headquarters is located in downtown Martinez. Each college is individually accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges. For more information visit www.4cd.edu.