Archive for the ‘News’ Category

Antioch Council approves spending $1.4 million of Coronavirus CARES Act funds, $7.5 million in federal funds overall

Tuesday, May 12th, 2020

“The council subcommittee is recommending an unprecedented $2,924,946 in CDBG funds,” said Terri House, the City’s CDBG Consultant.

By Allen Payton

During their meeting on Tuesday night, May 12, 2020, on a unanimous vote, the council approved spending plans for $7.5 million of federal funds, including $1.4 million of Coronavirus CARES Act funding. ACC Federal Funds presentation

According to the staff presentation, the City of Antioch has joined with the cities of Concord, Pittsburg, Walnut Creek and the County on behalf of the rest of the cities to create the Contra Costa HOME/CDBG Consortium to plan for entire county, and prepare the joint Consolidated Plan.

According to the city staff report – Action #1: The recommended action has no immediate fiscal impact; however, it will guide the funding decisions of approximately $6,000,000 in future CDBG and other funding over the 2020-25 Consolidated Plan period, and commits a total of $1,404,946 in CDBG and CDBG-CV (Corona Virus CARES funding) for FY 2020-21 to address identified high priority needs of the City in general public services, homeless services, housing and prevention, senior and youth services, economic development, infrastructure, housing, and CDBG administration.

Of the $1.4 million Antioch will receive $509,257 to address effects of the pandemic.

Highest priorities include:

  • Emergency assistance for rent, mortgage, and utility payments for those affected by “Stay At Home” order or other effects of Covid-19;
  • Assistance for renters to understand City’s Eviction and Rent Moratorium, and to direct them to City emergency assistance and other resources; and
  • Food assistance for homeless and seniors.

The process will begin in October with applications by non-profit organizations due in December.

Action #2: The recommended action has no impact to the General Fund but commits a total of $1,520,000 in Housing Successor Low Income Housing funds for FY 2020-21 to address identified high priority housing and homeless needs of the City.

“The council subcommittee is recommending an unprecedented $2,924,946 in CDBG funds,” said Terri House, the City’s CDBG Consultant.

The council approved the expenditure plans for Fiscal Years 20-21 and 20-25 on a 5-0 vote.

The meeting will be rebroadcast on Comcast local cable channel 24 on Thursday at 7 p.m. and Saturday at 1 p.m. or can be viewed on the City’s website.

Antioch Council honors Jack Roddy for 50 years of community service

Tuesday, May 12th, 2020

“There’s not a prettier place in the world than right here, in Antioch. We’re going to miss Antioch.” – Jack Roddy

Jack Roddy. Herald file photo.

By Allen Payton

During their meeting on Tuesday, May 12, 2020 the Antioch City Council honored Jack and Donna Roddy for their contributions to the Antioch community with a proclamation. Supervisor Diane Burgis and Congressman Jerry McNerney also provided proclamations honoring Jack Roddy. Jack Roddy Proclamation Antioch City Council 05-12-20

“Using a basketball analogy, it would be like having Michael Jordan in your community,” Mayor Sean Wright said about Jack Roddy.

Jack Roddy joined the council meeting by telephone from his new home in Stephenville, Texas.

“I feel very humbled by all these accolades. I’ve been proud to be a resident of Antioch,” he shared. “Whenever I traveled for rodeo, I was proud to represent Antioch.”

“We’ve had 50 years of friends. But I’ve had too many injuries to keep the ranch going,” Roddy explained. “But, we’ve left it in good hands. It will be a park for people to enjoy that ranch like we have. We’re going to miss Antioch. Anytime anyone from there comes to Texas, we live in Stevensville. You’re welcome to stay.”

“I appreciate all the kind words and we’re going to miss Antioch,” he added.

“We have a special video that’s been made to honor Jack,” said Wright.

“It was fun, I got to go out and watch them make this video of Jack. For him to tell his stories. For him they’re not stories. He has a book out. He’s just a legend. We’re going to miss him,” said Councilwoman Lori Ogorchock

In the video Roddy said, “There’s not a prettier place in the world than right here, in Antioch.”

Mayor Pro Tem Joy added her thoughts. “Jack and Donna have given their support and life to this community,” she said. “It’s just been remarkable. I really hate to see them go. I wish them the best of luck.”

“Jack you’re just a super nice person who has done great things for our community,” said Councilwoman Monica Wilson. “I remember whenever I’d see you, you always had a smile on your face. Thank you for everything you’ve done.”

“Thank you, Jack and Donna,” added Councilman Lamar Thorpe who was wearing a cowboy hat in the Roddy’s honor. “When I first moved to Antioch, one of the very first names you hear about is Jack Roddy. Thank you for your philanthropy. I still remember taking my daughter to your ranch and seeing all the cattle. Thank you for opening your home to us and the community. Best wishes in Texas.”

“Jack, it’s been great. I’ve had the honor and privilege of bringing my friends from Chichibu, Japan out to your ranch…to have that real Western, cowboy experience,” Wright added. “I’m excited for Deer Valley Park and your ranch for being a place of education. You will be remembered in Antioch and you and Donna will be missed.

Following is the proclamation approved unanimously by the council:

IN HONOR OF

JACK RODDY

MAY 12, 2020

WHEREAS, Jack Roddy was raised in San Jose’s eastern foothills and became a rodeo legend following a nationally renowned career including several national titles and Hall of Fame recognition;

WHEREAS, Jack and his wife Donna settled in the beautiful valley on the southern edge of Antioch at the base of the Mt. Diablo foothills where he built a very successful cattle and ranching operations;

WHEREAS, Jack Roddy has dedicated his time, money, and personal resources to making Antioch a better community since his arrival;

WHEREAS, in 1989 Jack was a founding member of the Delta Advocacy Fund, which was created to bring needed resources to those residents facing life emergencies and has provided

more than $500,000 to families throughout Antioch and East Contra Costa County;

WHEREAS, Jack willingly opened up his ranch for fundraising events and personally welcomed

thousands of guests that shared his desire to support many community efforts;

WHEREAS, in 2013 Jack hosted a Barbecue to support Antioch City Councilman Gary Agopian, who was battling brain cancer, Jack raised over $40,000 to support Gary and his family during this difficult time;

WHEREAS, Jack has been instrumental in raising additional funds to assist the Antioch Police Department, Chichibu Sister City Program, Mayor’s Cup golf tournament, Mangini Agriculture Museum and Gardens, and many other city programs; and

WHEREAS, for decades Jack participated in efforts to preserve his ranch lands, including Roddy Ranch Golf Club, to protect the habitat and to expand recreational opportunities in East Contra Costa which will provide a 3,254-acre, regional park for everyone’s enjoyment.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, SEAN WRIGHT, Mayor of the City of Antioch, do hereby honor Mr. Jack and Donna Roddy for more than forty years of service, support and land stewardship that enriches the Antioch community and all its residents.

 

Contra Costa Coronavirus Update: 1,066 cases, 32 total deaths, only 18 hospitalized in county

Tuesday, May 12th, 2020

Screenshot of CCHealth Coronavirus Dashboard 05-12-20.

By Allen Payton

As of this morning, Tuesday, May 12, 2020 at 11:30 a.m. Contra Costa Health Services (CCHS) is reporting a total of 1,066 cases of COVID-19/coronavirus, and a total of 32 deaths in the county. There are only 18 people diagnosed with the virus currently hospitalized.

There were 14 new cases reported in the past 24 hours, 3 more on Sunday and 12 more cases reported on Saturday.

A total of 19,176 people have been tested for the virus in the county.

To see the all the statistics provided by CCHS, click here.

Woman arrested for attempted murder as Antioch Mother’s Day family dispute turns deadly

Monday, May 11th, 2020

Runs down female family member, stabs husband

By Allen Payton

According to Antioch Police Corporal Vanderpool, Sunday night, May 10, 2020 at about 10:00 p.m. at 3185 Contra Loma Blvd. family dispute that went bad.

It started as a minor domestic argument and one of the family members got upset and as she was driving off in her car she allegedly, intentionally ran over a female family member, who experienced serious injuries to her pelvis and leg,” Vanderpool stated.

“Then the driver got out and stabbed who we believe to be is her soon to be ex-husband,” he said. “The female victim was transported to the hospital by helicopter that landed in Chichibu Park. The male victim is in stable condition with a serious stab wound to his leg.”

The suspect was arrested and taken to county jail on attempted murder charges,” Vanderpool added.

Antioch Police K-9 helps nab drug dealer with weed and over $13,000 Monday

Monday, May 11th, 2020

Antioch Police K-9 Officer Purcy sits proudly with his catch for the day. Photo by APD.

By Antioch Police Department

Monday, May 11, 2020, APD Detectives along with Canine Purcy executed a search warrant at the residence of a suspected drug dealer. During the search, over two pounds of marijuana and more than $13,000 was located. The suspect was booked into the County Jail and the cash was seized as proceeds of the illegal drug dealing.

This is part of an ongoing commitment to address drug dealing in our community by conducting complex investigations and seeking search warrants. This case will be presented to the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office for prosecution.

#AntiochStrong #AntiochPD #AntiochPDK9 #CaninePurcy

Antioch Police step up traffic enforcement, discover illegal dagger, stolen mail Friday

Saturday, May 9th, 2020

Traffic stops reveal stolen mail and illegal dagger. Photos by APD.

By Antioch Police Department

We’re listening Antioch!!

APD’s Traffic Unit had a busy day responding to your concerns about speeding vehicles, stop sign violations, and reckless driving. Our focus areas on Friday, May 8, 2020 included East 18th Street, Lone Tree, Putnam, and Highway 4.

While patrolling Cavallo, an officer spotted a reckless driver traveling in excess of 65 MPH, and causing other motorists to take evasive action to avoid a collision. After stopping said vehicle, the officer noticed an illegal dagger in the center console. The vehicle was whisked-off to car jail and a search revealed a bag full of stolen mail. The driver was sent to people jail to receive remedial education on shelter in-place.

One driver was nailed going 84 MPH. Photos by APD.

Reminder: The US Postal Service has a FREE service called Informed Delivery. This service provides a daily email preview of mail and packages arriving at your address . For more information, check out this link: https://informeddelivery.usps.com

Stay-tuned for more traffic enforcement on James Donlon and many other areas you’ve contacted us about! #AntiochPD #APDTrafficUnit #AntiochStrong #WeAreListening

DUI driver arrested after crashing car on James Donlon Thursday night

Saturday, May 9th, 2020

Photos by APD.

By Antioch Police Department

“I only had one beer…”

That’s what the driver of this car told officers after crashing into a light pole and three trees at James Donlon Blvd. and Hummingbird Drive. By the looks of things, you’d expect to see major injuries, or even worse. The driver, who was placed under arrest for DUI, escaped with only minor cuts and scrapes. Her car is totaled, and if convicted, she faces fines/fees of approximately $10,000, loss of her license, DUI offender classes, and jail or community service. Thankfully, no innocent bystanders were hurt from this incident.

Photos by APD.

I don’t know how many times we gotta say this – PLEASE DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE! Tens of thousands are injured on our roadways from DUI drivers each year. THERE IS NO EXCUSE!!!

What can you do if you spot an impaired driver? First, maintain a safe distance, try to get a license plate, and call 9-1-1. You never know who you might save by doing this.

Pinole man struck, killed by Bethel Island woman on Highway 4 in Antioch Friday night

Saturday, May 9th, 2020

By CHP – Contra Costa

Friday evening, May 8, 2020 at approximately 9:20 pm, Contra Costa CHP was advised of a vehicle collision vs. a pedestrian on HWY 4 westbound, east of Laurel Road. Upon emergency personnel and CHP arrival, a 29-year-old male pedestrian from Pinole, had been struck by a vehicle and was lying in the roadway. He was pronounced deceased at the scene by emergency personnel. The driver of the Nissan sedan that hit the pedestrian suffered major injuries and she was transported to the hospital. The Contra Costa County Sheriff Coroner’s Office will be handling the release of identify of the deceased male pedestrian.

In the initial investigation, the 23-year-old female driver from Bethel Island was traveling westbound on HWY 4 in a 2012 Nissan Versa, east of Laurel road. For unknown reasons, the male pedestrian was in the roadway and directly in the path of the approaching Nissan. The driver of the Nissan was unable to avoid the pedestrian and collided into him, causing fatal injuries. The driver suffered non-life-threatening but major injuries and was transported to John Muir Hospital in Walnut Creek. Her two passengers in the Nissan were not injured.

This incident is still under investigation. If anyone witnessed this collision or the events leading up to it, please contact Contra Costa CHP in Martinez at (925) 646-4980. Thank you