Deal with possible lawsuit by city employee during special meeting before another budget study session

Staff does not provide baseline budget to council as requested but shows annual deficits for this, next two years

By Allen D. Payton

CORRECTION: This reporter and members of the community misinterpreted the intent of the agenda items for today’s City Council Closed Session meeting. Because nothing was agendized to discipline or release a city employee, it was not possible for the Council to discuss terminating City Manager Scott.

During a special afternoon Closed Session meeting today, Tuesday, May 5, 2026, the Antioch City Council will discuss City Manager Bessie Scott’s performance evaluation, then deal with a potential lawsuit from an unnamed city employee and appoint an interim city manager. That means Scott could be placed on paid leave. That meeting begins at 4:00 p.m. It will be followed by another budget session at 5:30 p.m.

Scott started in October 2024 and just completed 19 months in her position out of her two-year contract. As previously reported, she was hired on a split, 3-2 City Council vote in August 2024. 

The fact that City staff did not provide “a baseline budget that represents only the required minimum municipal services that the City has to provide” for the 2026-27 Fiscal Year, as requested by the mayor, according to the staff report for the Budget Study Session, that may be one of the reasons for the Council’s actions.

The Closed Session agenda reads as follows:

1) PUBLIC EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE EVALUATION: CITY MANAGER.

This closed session is authorized pursuant to California Government Code section 54957(b)(1).

2) CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL- SIGNIFICANT EXPOSURE TO LITIGATION. The city is in receipt of facts and circumstances that might result in litigation against the City which are known to a potential plaintiff and that pertain to potential employment-related claims by the potential plaintiff against the City. This closed session is authorized pursuant to California Government Code sections 54956.9(d)(2) and 54956.9(e)(2). Number of cases: One.

3) PUBLIC EMPLOYEE APPOINTMENT: ACTING CITY MANAGER. This closed session is authorized pursuant to California Government Code section 54957.

The legal matter may be a possible lawsuit by Scott if she is being terminated for cause and the council doesn’t plan to pay her six months of severance included in her contract. But that is mere speculation as the agenda provides no other information to the public.

Mayor Ron Bernal and the four council members were asked why they’re holding a meeting to fire the city manager and hire an acting city manager at 4:00 p.m. when most people can’t attend. They were also asked why now when she only has six more months on her contract.

Only Freitas responded with, “They Mayor is responsible for setting the agenda. And, due to confidentiality I am legally prevented from discussing this matter with you.”

Additional efforts to reach Bernal and efforts to reach Scott were unsuccessful prior to publication time.

See Meeting agenda.

Budget Study Session – Includes Deficits for This, Following Two years

For the special Budget Study Session beginning at 5:30 p.m., City staff did not provided the Council with the requested baseline budget. The staff report for the one agenda item reads, “At the Special Meeting of April 21, 2026, the Mayor requested that staff provide a baseline budget that represents only the required minimum municipal services that the City has to provide; to then afford the City Council to layer upon that budget to address priorities. As stated by the City Manager and Finance Director, with only 9 weeks to go until the City is required to adopt a budget, this is an impossible exercise to complete in such a short time frame to ensure we have time to research legal mandates as well as do a thorough review of departmental expenditures for what ‘qualify’ as the bare minimum and what is considered to be beyond the minimum. Should Council want to pursue this budget process, it is recommended to start this in August for building the Fiscal Year 2027-28 budget and potential mid-year adjustment for Fiscal Year 2026-27.”

Furthermore, the staff report reads, “With the budget as presented this evening, Council will need to determine what the acceptable level of deficit they are willing to proceed with and potentially direct specific cuts to incorporate if the Council is not willing to adopt this budget.”

Included in the proposed budget are the adjustments the Council proposed at their meeting on April 28th which amount to almost $2.4 million in cuts, plus, the $5 million transfer from the Budget Stabilization Fund.

Even with those cuts and an annual transfer of $5 million from the Budget Stabilization Fund, the General Fund Budget Summary shows an ending deficit for this year of $4.7 million, proposed for the 2026-27 Fiscal Year of $6.5 million and projected for the 2027-27 Fiscal Year of $13.4 million.

See Budget Study Session agenda.

Meeting Details

The Closed Session will begin and the Budget Study Session will be held in the Council Chambers at City Hall located at 200 H Street in Antioch’s historic, downtown Rivertown. They can also be viewed via livestream on the City’s website, on Comcast Cable Channel 24 or AT&T U-verse Channel 99 and a recording posted later on the City’s YouTube Channel. The public can speak before the Closed Session to give input prior to the council adjourning to the closed door meeting.

Paid effort also working before June 6th deadline in 5 Bay Area counties

By Allen D. Payton

On Wednesday, April 22nd, volunteer transit advocates celebrated gathering 46,300 signatures for the regional transit sales tax funding measure to help qualify it for the November ballot.

“’As of today, we’ve surpassed 46,300,’ wrote advocate Cyrus Hall in a celebratory email, according to a report by StreetsBlog SF. The goal was that by now they would ‘collect 45,000 grassroots signatures for Connect Bay Area by today.’”

While the effort must gather a total of the required 186,000 valid signatures of registered voters in the five Bay Area counties of Contra Costa, Alameda, San Francisco, San Mateo and Santa Clara by June 6, the Connect Bay Area has raised more than $3 million to fund the paid-for effort.

“Insiders told Streetsblog that the larger, paid signature-gathering campaign is also on track, although its exact tabulations are a guarded secret,” the report added.

As previously reported, the proposed half-cent sales tax increase in four of the counties and one cent in San Francisco will last for 14 year duration and would generate about $1 billion per year.

Revenue from the tax measure will benefit multiple transit agencies in the region including Tri Delta Transit, County Connection and WestCat, as well as AC Transit and BART which serve Contra Costa County residents.

Following is a county-by-county breakdown of the County Specific Dollars. It does not include money going to BART, Muni, AC Transit and Caltrain, or to regional improvements that aren’t designated by county, such as coordinated fare programs and accessibility improvements:

County Agencies:

• Contra Costa Transportation Authority (2.5%, $26.51M)
• Alameda County Transportation Commission (1%, $10.26M)
• San Mateo County Transit District (4.7%, $50M)
• Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (25.1%, $264.07M)

Small Operators:

• Contra Costa County small operators (1.5%, $15.75M)
• Alameda County small operators (0.5%, $5.25M)
• SF Bay Ferry (0.7%, $7M)
• Golden Gate Transit (0.1%, $1M)

Without new and sustainable operations funding, the BART Board could shut down two of its five lines, close as many as 15 stations, and reduce service from 4,500 trains per week to just 500, with trains running only hourly and no weekend service. (See related article)

Led by 8-member Transition Team; adopts new Mission Statement

By Carla Baker Marymee

ANTIOCH, CA – May 2, 2026 – A new era is taking shape at the Antioch Historical Museum. Located at 1500 W. 4th Street, the museum is embarking on one of the most significant transformations in its history—unveiling an ambitious 5‑year Strategic Plan designed to elevate, protect, and reimagine Antioch’s rich cultural legacy.

At the heart of this effort is the museum’s newly appointed 8‑member Transition Team, a diverse group of community leaders who will guide the plan’s first phase. Members include: Theresa Court, Antioch Historical Society Board President; Janet Farr, Board Member; Mike Green, Vice Principal, Deer Valley High School; Matthew Hart, attorney; Tom Hartrick, business owner; Carla Baker Marymee, Board President‑Elect and business owner; Clifton Mbanugo, business owner; and Donna McGee, Kaiser Permanente Antioch Medical Center Site Director. The team is led by Raymond Davi, Museum Strategic Advisor.

This milestone follows an extensive 18‑month assessment led by Davi, who conducted in‑depth research and interviews with board members, museum members, committees, and community stakeholders. His findings made clear that the museum needed a bold new direction to secure its long‑term future.

To bring that vision to life, consultant Sanjay P. Hukku, PhD was engaged to work with internal and external audiences to shape a comprehensive five‑year plan and a modernized organizational structure. This work was generously funded through an estate gift from longtime museum member Nancy Kelly, whose legacy now helps propel the museum into its next chapter.

The resulting plan establishes a revitalized structure—featuring a Governing Board, Advisory Team, Executive Director (ED), and Friends of the Museum group—and sets a clear roadmap for growth, sustainability, and community impact.

“This plan realigns the museum’s mission, reimagines its role in the community, and positions it as an innovative, engaging, and trusted cultural asset,” said Theresa Court, AHS Board President. “By embracing this new direction, the Antioch Historical Museum is preparing to thrive—preserving the region’s heritage while inspiring future generations.”

During the first year, the Transition Team will focus on foundational work: assessing the historic 1910 Riverview High School building, establishing the new organizational structure, and launching the search for the museum’s first Executive Director.

“The Antioch Historical Museum is at a defining moment,” said Raymond Davi. “At the heart of this transformation is a bold new mission that redefines what the museum stands for and how it connects with the community.”

The museum’s new Mission Statement reflects that vision:

“We welcome curious visitors to explore the extraordinary history in every corner of our community and region. We focus on hidden heroes, untold stories, and surprising moments—bringing them to life through exhibits, outreach, and publications that help young people, families, and visitors of all ages discover that Antioch’s history is impossible to ignore.”

The Antioch Historical Museum is housed in the historic 1910 Riverview High School, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and is also home to the Antioch Sports Legends Hall of Fame.

The museum is open Wednesdays and Saturdays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information, contact Carla Baker Marymee, Antioch Historical Society Museum Public Relations Strategist, at (925) 775‑8764. Visit the museum on Facebook at facebook.com/antiochhistoricalmuseum or online at https://antiochhistoricalmuseum.org.

BISSELL Pet Foundation’s Empty the Shelters® 10th Anniversary Event

Adoption fees waived in Antioch May 1-17

By Becca Bryant

Today marks the start of National Pet Month, and the timing couldn’t be better.

BISSELL Pet Foundation’s Empty the Shelters® – the nation’s largest funded adoption event – returns May 1-17, 2026, marking the 10th anniversary of the Foundation’s signature program. This milestone event celebrates a decade of lifesaving second chances for shelter pets. Hosted in partnership with 335 animal shelters across 39 states, the initiative helps make adoption more affordable by sponsoring reduced adoption fees of $70 or less. All pets are spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped—ready to go from kennel to couch.

As shelters face increased intake during the spring months and adoptions struggle to keep pace, this event provides critical relief by helping thousands of pets find loving homes. Since launching in 2016, Empty the Shelters has helped nearly 400,000 pets find homes through partnerships with 909 organizations across 49 states and Canada. 

BISSELL Pet Foundation, a leading national nonprofit founded in 2011 by Cathy Bissell, partners with animal welfare organizations by reimbursing adoption fees so that adopters pay $70 or less. Every pet is spay/neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped – ready to go from kennel to couch.

 “Ten years ago, Empty the Shelters® began with a simple goal—to bring awareness to the incredible pets in shelters,” said Bissell. “Today, it has grown into a national effort that has helped nearly 400,000 pets find families. Those adoptions have opened space for other pets to enter shelters, provided relief for shelter teams, and created the heartwarming joy that only adoption can bring. This impact has been made possible thanks to the commitment of shelters, adopters, donors and supporters across the country. As we celebrate 10 years, we encourage everyone to consider adoption and help more pets find the homes they deserve. It’s never too late to make a difference.”

Antioch Animal Services Participates Again

Antioch Animal Services is participating in the Empty the Shelters® 10th Anniversary Event. Stop by Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm at 300 L Street in Antioch’s historic, downtown Rivertown.

Antioch’s staff says, “Come check out our amazing pets and perhaps find your new best friend!”

For more information check adoptable pets at https://24petconnect.com/AntiochAdoptablePets or call (925) 779-6989, Tuesday through Saturday, 8:30 am – 5:00 pm.

Additional details & FAQs:

• Events take place quarterly, with emergency activations during shelter crises.
• Each shelter has its own process – contact them directly for applications, adoptable pets, and event hours.
• BISSELL Pet Foundation does not operate a shelter or offer individual pet grants.
• Follow @bissellpets on social media for updates and announcements.
• Adoption saves two lives – the pet going home and the one who takes their place

About BISSELL Pet Foundation:

BISSELL Pet Foundation is a charitable 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to help reduce the number of animals in shelters through pet adoption, spay/neuter, vaccinations, microchipping and emergency support. Founded in 2011 by Cathy Bissell, BPF is an extension of her long-standing love for animals and commitment to their welfare. BPF has since partnered with more than 6,025 shelters and rescues across the U.S. and Canada to help pets find loving homes. The foundation is supported by generous donors and BISSELL Inc. where every purchase saves pets. To learn more, visit www.bissellpetfoundation.org.

For more information about BISSELL Pet Foundation’s Empty the Shelters® visit www.bissellpetfoundation.org/programs/empty-the-shelters/#.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

To celebrate Small Business Week and support local entrepreneurs

By Nicole Holmes

The Bloom Market will debut this week as a community-centered event celebrating Small Business Week, beginning Sunday, May 3. Hosted in Antioch, the market is designed to uplift local entrepreneurs, connect residents to small businesses and activate community space through wellness, commerce, and engagement.

This first Bloom Market is free to the public (and vendors) and was made possible through a grant supporting community programming in Antioch. 

Programming for the event includes a fitness session led by Coach Capri featuring an extreme hip-hop workout, live DJ entertainment throughout the day, and two rounds of community bingo at 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Attendees can also expect a curated vendor marketplace, entrepreneur resource tables, light bites, and specialty beverages including dirty sodas.

Organizers emphasize that the Bloom Market is both a celebration and an experiment in community engagement, designed to assess interest and build momentum for future recurring markets throughout the summer.

Event Details:

Bloom Market – Small Business Week Kickoff

• 514 W. 2nd Street, Rivertown, Antioch (The Lemon Tree)
• 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
• Free and open to the public
• Family-friendly event

For more information visit the Bloom Market Facebook page.

Paid advertisement

By Sgt. Rob Green, Traffic Division, Antioch Police Department

On Friday, April 17, 2026, at approximately 8:00 AM, Antioch Police Officers responded to a report of a vehicle versus pedestrian collision at the intersection of Country Hills Drive and Wolverine Way.

Upon arrival, officers located an 84-year-old female pedestrian from Antioch who had sustained major injuries. She was transported to a local hospital, where she later succumbed to her injuries.

The driver of the vehicle remained at the scene and is fully cooperating with the investigation. The Antioch Police Department Traffic Unit has assumed responsibility for the case.

If you witnessed the collision or have any information that may assist investigators, please contact Officer Josh Egan at (925) 204-1587 or jegan@antiochca.gov.

Will focus on economic growth, public safety, community investment & partnerships, fiscal accountability

Hoping third times’ a charm

By Sandra White for City Council campaign

Sandra White, human resources executive, current president of the Antioch Rotary Club and former Antioch Police Crime Prevention Commission Chair, announced her candidacy for Antioch City Council, District 4 during a campaign kick-off on April 18.

As a resident of Antioch, White has seen firsthand the challenges facing local families, small businesses, and public safety resources, and is committed to delivering practical, results-driven solutions.

She also currently serves as a Standby City Council Member for Mayor Ron Bernal. Her volunteer endeavors included serving on the Antioch Unified School District Advisory Board and previously the Contra Costa County Community Corrections Partnership Community Advisory Board, which focused on re-entry programs for formerly incarcerated individuals.

This will be her third attempt at replacing incumbent Monica Wilson, now serving in her fourth term on the council since first being elected in 2012, but who has yet to announce for re-election in November. White ran in both 2020 for the two-year term and 2022 for the current four-year term.

White brings extensive experience in business operations, workforce development and organizational leadership, with a campaign focused on economic growth, public safety and strengthening community investment and partnerships, and fiscal accountability.

“Antioch is at a critical turning point,” said White. “We have an opportunity to build a safer, stronger and more economically vibrant city. I’m running to bring accountable leadership, common-sense solutions and a stronger, safer future for our community.”

White works as Vice President of Human Resources for a multi-state organization, Center for Social Dynamics, providing autism services to children, where she has led initiatives focused on workforce growth, operational efficiency, and building high-performing teams. According to her bio on the organization’s website, “She loves volunteering in her community and racking up airline mileages. Sandra earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from California State University, East Bay, and a Master of Associate degree in Counseling Psychology from John F. Kennedy University.”

Her professional experience is complemented by a strong record of community involvement in Antioch, including efforts supporting public safety, education, and youth development.

White’s Campaign Priorities Include:

• Economic Development: Attract businesses, support small businesses, empower entrepreneurs, and create sustainable local jobs. Strengthen City leadership by hiring department heads and staff with proven economic development experience and measurable results.

• Public Safety: Support full police staffing, reduce response times, and maintain safe neighborhoods and thriving business districts.

• Community Investment & Partnerships: Expand youth programs, strengthen community services, and improve overall quality of life for Antioch residents.

• Fiscal Accountability: Ensure responsible budgeting, transparency and long-term financial stability while protecting taxpayer dollars.

“We cannot spend more than we bring in,” White added. “Antioch needs disciplined financial leadership, transparency and a high-performing team focused on delivering long-term economic success.”

White’s campaign will focus on engaging residents, listening to community concerns, and building practical solutions that reflect the needs of District 4 and the broader Antioch community.

“This campaign is about bringing people together, listening to our community, and making sure every voice in Antioch is heard.”

Residents interested in learning more, volunteering, or supporting the campaign are encouraged to contact Sandra White at sandra.white4antioch@gmail.com or by calling (510) 303-5880, and follow-on social media at Facebook: Sandra White for Antioch, on Instagram: @sandrawhiteforantioch and TikTok: sandrawhiteforantioch.

Her website will be live, soon.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

By Antioch Police Department

On Thursday, April 23, 2026, officers with the Antioch Police Community Engagement Team responded to a report of an unhoused individual trespassing on private property. When Officers Riosbaas and Shipilov arrived, they made contact with a young man named Harry. During their conversation with Harry, he explained that he had been experiencing homelessness for an extended period of time and was making efforts to obtain employment, so he could afford housing and transportation, but had been unsuccessful so far despite applying to several local businesses.

Officers used their contacts with Mena, the owner of 7-Eleven on Sunset Lane and Davison Drive, and gave Mena Harry’s contact information. Within 15 minutes Mena called Harry and set up a job interview while officers Riosbaas and Shipilov were still on scene. Harry was extremely grateful for the opportunity! Officers gave Harry some pointers for the interview and he aced it! Harry was hired and his first day of work was April 26, 2026.

Officers Riosbaas and Shipilov checked in on Harry on Tuesday, April 28 to congratulate him on his success and took the opportunity to pose with him and Mena.

These are the contacts that make a difference in our community. At the Antioch Police Department, our Community Engagement Team is committed to more than just enforcement. They’re here to build relationships, connect people with resources, and help create pathways to success.

This is just one example of how collaboration, compassion, and proactive policing can positively impact lives. We would like to thank Mena for being willing to give Harry an opportunity, and we wish Harry continued success in this next chapter.