David Despain for Most Impact, Ray Yaker for Lifetime achievement and Jimmy Bean recognized

By Antioch Chamber of Commerce

During the annual Gala on Friday, March 28, 2025, the Antioch Chamber of Commerce honored 2024/25 Antioch Veterans of the Year, David Despain for most impact and Ray Yaker for Lifetime achievement, and honored the late Jimmy Bean with a posthumous award recognizing him for years of service to the community. The event was held at the Lone Tree Golf & Event Center.

2024/25 Antioch Veteran of the Year – David (Dave) Despain

I was born March 17, 1965, in Boulder, Colorado.I graduated from Niwot High School in Niwot Colorado in 1983 and enlisted in the Navy in July of 1983 as a Construction Mechanic in the Navy Sea Bees!

I attended Boot Camp in San Diego, then transferred to Port Hueneme for Construction Mechanic training and certification.

After completion of training my first set of orders were to Adak Alaska, where I spent 2 years working in Public Works supporting the snow equipment, aircraft refuelers and construction equipment to support the anti-submarine warfare efforts during the cold war.

After leaving Adak, I received orders to Navy Second Class Dive School in Coronado, Ca to eventually be assigned to UCT 2 (Underwater Construction Team 2) in Port Hueneme, CA.

After this assignment I transferred to NMCB 40 (Naval Mobile Construction Battalion) in Port Hueneme.  Where I was deployed to Yokosuka, Japan and then later to Rota Spain.

In 1987, I received orders to the Concord Naval Weapons Station, which brought me to Antioch.

Released from Active Duty in 1992, I began a career with Caltrans (Highway Department).

In late 1992, I enlisted into the navy Reserves and joined CHB-3 (Cargo Handling Battalion) in Alameda, California. While assigned to CHB-3 we were tasked with mobilizing, storing, supplying Mobile Navy Hospitals around the world.  This took me to several countries including, Turkey, Norway, Korea, and Guam.

I retired as a 1st Class Petty Officer in the United States Navy Seabees in August of 2006.

While in the reserves I joined the American Legion, Harding-Noia Post 161 in Antioch, CA. I worked with the American Legion in supporting youth programs by leading and sponsoring Cub Scout Pack 151 and Boy Scout Troop 151. In 2019 I became the Commander for Antioch’s American Legion Post 161 and am still serving as Commander.

2024/25 Antioch Lifetime Veteran of the Year – Ray Yaker

I was born in May of 1947 in Fresno Ca. to William & Martha Yaker, where I went to school and graduated from Roosevelt High in the spring of 1965. In January of ‘66 joined the Navy and later that year after completing a course at BT ‘A’ school was deployed on a West-Pac tour which included off the shore of Vietnam. In the middle of March of ‘67 while trying to assist the rescue of a downed pilot we received a direct hit from shore batteries which came seriously close to sending the entire ship and crew to Davy Jones Locker.

After that I applied to UDT (Navy Frogmen) and was sent back to San Diego and the infamous “Silver Strand” for training. Unfortunately, after five and a half weeks into the training I was in a bit of an accident that left me missing a couple of teeth and was unable to complete the course and transferred to a second ship where I finished my service in June of ’68. 

In March of ’69 I was married and later that year we had our first of two children. I worked in Fresno at various places till July of ’73 and relocated to Winters Ca and went to work for PG&E and played a little music on the side, till I became a truck driver in ’78 for 16yrs. It was during this time we met Paul and Winkie Scannell, who, were really the people responsible for us getting involved with helping others. At that time, it was the Make-A-Wish Foundation then later the American Legion.

I was already a member of the VFW but when joined the Legion I became a member of their Honor Guard and really got evolved with volunteering it was at that time we noticed that people allover were starting to recognizing Veterans and thanking us for our service to our country.

Over the years we have donated to as many service organizations as possible and have volunteered whenever we could. 

According to local veterans’ leader, J.R. Wilson, who assisted with the presentations, Mr. Yaker was unable to attend the dinner due to his wife being diagnosed with cancer and having her first chemo treatment that day. At Ray’s request, during the ceremony, J.R. spoke about the importance of cancer screening.

Posthumous Award Honoring Jimmy Bean

We are honored to present this Posthumous Award in memory of Jimmy, a devoted family man, community leader, and steadfast supporter of the Antioch Chamber of Commerce. Jimmy’s love and commitment to service and generosity left an incredible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A proud veteran, Jimmy served in the National Guard in North Carolina, demonstrating his dedication to his country. As a longtime member of the Lions Club, he played a pivotal role in organizing countless fundraisers, ensuring their success and impact on the community. His passion for service extended through his years as a business owner and Antioch Chamber member, where he was always willing to assist others in times of need.

Beyond his professional and community contributions, Jimmy was a man of many passions. He found joy in golf, photography, fine wine, and the music of Elvis Presley. His warmth, kindness, and generosity touched many lives, making him not only a respected leader but also a cherished friend. Jimmy’s legacy of service and compassion will forever be remembered. Though he is no longer with us, his impact will continue to inspire generations to come.

In loving memory of Jimmy—thank you for a life well-lived and a community well-served.

Bean passed away on December 26, 2024, at the age of 85. Read his obituary, here:

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

For Most Impact and Lifetime Achievement, respectively

By Antioch Chamber of Commerce

During the annual Gala on Friday, March 28, 2025, the Antioch Chamber of Commerce honored Deer Valley High School Vice Principal Mike Green as the 2024 Antioch Citizen of the Year for Most Impact and former Councilwoman Lori Ogorchock with the 2024 Antioch Citizen of the Year for Lifetime Achievement award. The event was held at the Lone Tree Golf & Event Center.

2024 Citizen of the Year for Most Impact – Mike Green

Mike is the kind of volunteer every community dreams of – dedicated, selfless and endlessly giving. His commitment to service extends both locally and internationally, having traveled alongside his father to Mexico and Zambia to assist with dental work for those in need. A natural leader from a young age, Mike achieved the rank of Eagle Scout at just 12 years old and has since continued his scouting journey as a Scoutmaster, tirelessly fundraising and mentoring young scouts.

Beyond scouting, Mike has devoted his career to shaping young minds, serving as an elementary school principal and now as the Vice Principal at Deer Valley High School. His passion for helping students reach their full potential extends to the athletic field, where he previously coached track at Deer Valley. His impact in Antioch runs deep – serving on the boards of Delta Advocacy, the Leo Fontana Foundation, and the Rotary Club of the Delta, where he has championed initiatives supporting low-income families, youth, and seniors.

Mike’s generosity does not stop there. He founded the Home Team program, which provides minor home repairs for local seniors, ensuring they can live safely and comfortably. His heart for service is also evident in the kitchen, where he volunteers as a sous chef, preparing meals for community dinners benefiting causes such as the Elderly Wish Foundation and Special Needs Christmas events. The list of Mike’s contributions could go on and on, but one thing is clear—his impact is profound, and his dedication to Antioch is unmatched. He is truly an incredible, selfless, and exemplary member of our community.

2024 Citizen of the Year for Lifetime Achievement – Former Councilwoman Lori Ogorchock

Lori is the true definition of a servant leader, dedicating countless hours to understanding and uplifting her community. Her passion and commitment have driven numerous initiatives that have positively impacted Antioch and beyond.

From coaching youth sports to organizing fundraising efforts, Lori has always prioritized the well-being of children and families. She played a pivotal role in coordinating the first Women’s March in Antioch, raising awareness for women’s rights in East County. She also initiated the Veterans Banner Program, a heartfelt tribute that honors local veterans by displaying their images along the city’s main streets.

As a dedicated board member of PAL (Police Activities League), Lori works tirelessly to support fundraising efforts for youth programs, ensuring that children have access to positive activities and opportunities. Additionally, she serves as the Chair of the Elderly Wish Foundation, granting seniors their final wishes and bringing joy to their lives in their most precious moments. Lori’s impact extends even further as she was instrumental in the opening of Antioch’s Family Justice Center, providing essential resources and support for individuals and families in need.

Her efforts have not only strengthened community programs but have also inspired countless individuals to take action and give back. Whether advocating for women’s rights, honoring veterans, supporting youth, or fulfilling the wishes of seniors, Lori’s selfless contributions have touched lives in profound ways. Her lifelong commitment to service and advocacy is a testament to her character, making her a truly deserving recipient of this award.

Former Acting City Manager, Economic Development Director Kwame Reed was appointed to current position in January

By Allen D. Payton

After less than two months in his position as Assistant City Manager, Kwame Reed is leaving the City of Antioch for a position with Contra Costa County. But no one will say what the job will be for the City’s former Economic Development Director, Acting City Manager and current Acting Economic Development Director. At the end of Tuesday night’s city council meeting during Staff Communications, City Manager Bessie M. Scott announced Reed’s departure. (See 5:59 mark of meeting video)

“I want to acknowledge the assistant city manager who will not be here at the next council meeting as his last day is on the 21st,” she said. “And I want to congratulate him for his new position at the county and to acknowledge his contribution to my success in the short time that I’ve been here. He walked side by side with me having no manual, no onboarding plan, no even announcement that I was joining the City. But I just wanted to acknowledge his support and to congratulate him on these next steps.”

She did not identify Reed’s new position.

Scott previously announced on Jan. 23rd that she had appointed him to the position of Assistant City Manager. She said at that time, “Reed brings more than 29 years of leadership and operational experience across local and regional government agencies.” He had served as Antioch’s Acting City Manager from June 2023 until Scott was hired last October. Reed began his time with the City in 2018. Prior to that, he worked for the City of Brentwood as a Senior Policy Analyst from 2004 to 2018.

Reed also served on the County’s Workforce Development Board to support the workforce and help bring greater recognition to East Contra Costa County. According to his bio on that organization’s website, “When he isn’t working or serving on the board, Reed, a husband and father of three, enjoys time with family and playing the role of “Dad Chauffeur,” with the family’s Giant Schnauzer, Abena, in tow.”

In response to questions about Reed’s new position Scott said she would check. Contra Costa County Office of Communications & Media Director Kristi Jourdan responded to an inquiry about it writing, “I haven’t heard anything” but will “try to track down some information.”

When asked, District 3 County Supervisor Diane Burgis said, “That’s for Kwame to announce.”

Efforts to reach Mayor Ron Bernal to learn what Reed’s new position will be were also unsuccessful and District 2 Councilman Louie Rocha said, “I’m not sure”. But District 3 Councilman Don Freitas said he remembers reading that it will be the Deputy Clerk-Recorder and congratulated County Clerk-Recorder Kristin Connelly during an event both were attending recently.

Reed later responded, “Out of the respect I have for my colleagues and friends I am currently working with, I am going to request the County provide a statement closer to my last day. I do not think Antioch should make a statement about my departure.”

However, it was announced to the County Clerk-Recorder’s Office staff that Reed will become the highest-level staff member in the department, answering directly to elected Connelly. His first day will be April 15.

Asked to confirm that, Reed responded, “Yes that is my new role.”

He will replace Tommy Gong who retired in February.

The Clerk-Recorder’s Office oversees the Elections Division, handles real estate recordings, Fictitious Business Name filings and professional registrations, as well as issues birth, marriage and death certificates and marriage licenses.

The vacancy in the City position will leave Antioch without an Assistant City Manager or Economic Development Director, and an Acting Police Chief, Acting City Attorney, Acting Community Development Director and Acting Public Works Director/City Engineer. A nationwide search is currently being conducted to hire a permanent police chief.

Three awards to be presented during luncheon including “Visionary Leadership” Award to Contra Costa DA Diana Becton

By Jennifer Adams, Senior Executive Assistant, President’s Office, Los Medanos College

Los Medanos College will host its 2nd Annual Celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2025. Three people will receive the 2025 Los Medanos College MLK Awards:
• “Visionary Leadership” Award – Diana Becton | District Attorney for Contra Costa County
• “Beloved Community” Award – Kolette Simonton | Director of Recreation for the City of Pittsburg
• “Emerging Leadership” Award – Annisha Geran | LMC Alumna, School Site Council Chairperson at MLK, Jr. Junior High School & School Site Council Vice Chairperson at Pittsburg High School
The awards will be presented during the luncheon that day.

The “Visionary Leadership” Award recognizes a member of the eastern Contra Costa County community who embodies Dr. King’s strengths as a transformational, servant leader. Dr. King inspired others to shape the future articulated in his vision. He focused on the well-being, growth, and empowerment of others and the community he served. Dr. King said, “Human progress is neither automatic nor inevitable … Every step toward the goal of justice requires sacrifice, suffering, and struggle; the tireless exertions and passionate concern of dedicated individuals.” This award recognizes local leaders who have demonstrated the courage to speak up when needed, to step up when no one else would, and to lift others whose efforts would serve the greater good.

The “Beloved Community” Award is inspired by the term popularized by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and is presented to a local resident who has demonstrated a long-standing commitment to service. As noted by The King Center, the “Beloved Community” is a global vision in which: all people can share in the wealth of the earth; poverty, hunger, and homelessness will not be tolerated; racism and all forms of discrimination, bigotry, and prejudice will be replaced by an all-inclusive spirit of sisterhood and brotherhood; and love and trust will triumph over fear and hatred.” Recipients of this award demonstrate agape love, which Dr. King described as “understanding, redeeming goodwill for all” – a love “seeking to preserve and create community.”

The “Emerging Leadership” Award is given to an LMC student or alumna/us who exemplifies the principles of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and, within the last year, has made a significant impact on the LMC campus or in the local community in the areas of advocacy and social justice. Dr. King once said, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?” – and these emerging leaders are already demonstrating that commitment to service.

RSVPs for the luncheon are no longer being accepted.

About LMC
Los Medanos College is one of three colleges in the Contra Costa Community College District, serving the East Contra Costa County community. Established in 1974, LMC has earned federal designations as a Minority-Serving and Hispanic-Serving institution. It offers award-winning transfer and career-technical programs, support services, and diverse academic opportunities in an inclusive learning environment. With exceptional educators, innovative curriculum, growing degree and certificate offerings, and state-of-the-art facilities, the college prepares students to succeed in their educational pursuits, in the workforce, and beyond.
• The Pittsburg Campus boasts 120 acres, a lake, advanced library, science, math and student union buildings.
• The Brentwood Center, which opened May 2022, is nestled on 17.5 acres along the rolling hills of the City of Brentwood.
• The college offers more than 90 transfer and career-technical programs of study to help students achieve a lifetime of higher earnings.
• Established in 1974, LMC has earned federal designations as a Minority-Serving and Hispanic-Serving institution.
LMC is located at 2700 E. Leland Road in Pittsburg. The Brentwood Center is located at 1351 Pioneer Square.

Lori Ogorchock, Mike Green are 2024 Citizens of the Year

By Allen D. Payton

The Antioch Chamber of Commerce has announced the winners of the annual awards for 2024.

• Citizen of the Year for Lifetime Achievement – Former Councilwoman Lori Ogorchock
• Citizen of the Year for Most Impact- Mike Green
• Small Business of the Year- Mike’s Pastry
• Large Corporate Business of the Year – Travis Credit Union
• Non-Profit of the Year – RCF Connects
• Student of the Year – Mina Aljanaby, Dozier-Libbey Medical High School student

More details on each winner will be provided by the Chamber later.

An additional Citizen of the Year for Lifetime Achievement will be posthumously to the late Jimmy Bean, a former business owner and community leader, who passed away in December. (See obituary, here)

All seven award winners will be honored at the Chamber’s Annual Gala at the Lone Tree Golf & Event Center on Saturday, March 28. Tickets are $85 per person or $680 for a table of eight and are available on the Chamber’s website at www.AntiochChamber.com.

Thomas Gaines Virtual Academy’s Crystal Berry had a 25-year career in education

By Allen D. Payton

On Thursday, February 13, 2025, the Antioch Unified School District informed the families of students at Thomas Gaines Virtual Academy that Principal Crystal Berry had passed. Classes at the school were not held on Friday.

A post on the district’s Facebook page on Friday offered more details:
It is with extreme sadness we share that longtime educator Crystal Berry has passed away.
In her 25-year career, she taught, guided, helped and cheered on countless students and staff members.
She graced the campuses of Diablo Vista, Marsh and Lone Tree elementary schools, Park Middle and, most recently, was the principal of Thomas Gaines Virtual Academy.
In a 2019 district Facebook article, Crystal said one of the funniest things that happened in her teaching career was when her students told her she was Superwoman.
“It’s because I could run and play basketball in high heels!”
Over the years, Crystal would say schools were her happy place.
“I love being in a role where I can implement changes … and provide guidance and support to students, staff and families.
“I love children. I believe they are unique, resilient and talented.”
The family requests privacy during this heartbreaking time. We send them comforting thoughts.

The letter to families from the district’s Director of Secondary Support, Lindsay Lopez-Wisely, read as follows:

February 13, 2025

Dear TGVA Families,

It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of our beloved Principal, Crystal Berry. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the Berry family and the entire TGVA and AUSD community. Ms. Berry dedicated over twenty-five years to serving our students, staff, and families, and her passing is a profound loss for all who knew her.

During this difficult time, our crisis team will be available to support students, staff, and parents as we navigate this loss together. Counselors, mental health clinicians, and restorative facilitators will be on-site and available virtually for those in need of support. To connect with a support provider, please contact the TGVA office. We can arrange either a virtual session or an in-person meeting.

Schedule Update for Friday, February 14th

Out of respect for our community and to allow time for processing this loss, teachers will not hold classes on Friday, February 14th. Instead, students will receive asynchronous assignments with extended time for completion.

Coping with Loss

A loss like this can affect each of us differently. Some may grieve personally, others may feel deep sympathy, and some may be reminded of past losses. No matter how you are experiencing this, please know that you are not alone. Support is available both on campus and within our community.

On-Campus Support

•Visit the TGVA office – counseling staff will be available in Room 501
•Call the TGVA office at 925-779-7640 to sign up for support with a counselor
•Email Kathryn Coyle Youker, Coordinator of Counseling Services at KathrynCoyle-Youker@antiochschools.net

Community Support

Antioch Unified School District has partnered with Care Solace to provide confidential, complimentary mental health support for students, staff, and their families. If you or a family member need assistance, you can use Care Solace to connect with therapists or treatment programs, regardless of circumstances.
•Call: 888-515-0595 (Available 24/7/365, any language)
•Visit: www.caresolace.com/antiochschools to search for providers or book an appointment viavideo chat, email, or phone.

Emergency Resources

If you or someone you know is in crisis, please seek immediate support:
•Call 911 and request a Crisis Intervention Trained (C.I.T.) response
•Go to the nearest emergency room
•Text “Hello” or “Home” to 741741 for crisis support
•Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ+ Crisis Support): 1-866-488-7386
•National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 (Online chat)

We appreciate your support for one another during this time of grief. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need assistance.

With deepest sympathy,

Lindsay Lopez-Wisely
Director of Secondary Support

—————-

Area 3 Trustee Dee Brown offered her thoughts on Berry’s passing. In a post on her official Facebook page on Saturday she wrote, “My deepest condolences and prayers are with the Beautiful Principal Crystal Berry family. May her family and everyone connected to her be comforted as her memories are always cherished and her legacy continues.
Rest well Ms. Berry.”

Inspired by his late uncle, a Pittsburg cop, to pursue a law enforcement career, Antioch native Desmond Bittner worked “his way up through the ranks” from cadet

By Antioch Police Department

During a ceremony at the Antioch Police Facility on Monday, Feb. 10, 2025, Interim Chief Joe Vigil administered the oath of office to the department’s new Captain Desmond Bittner.

The chief said and later posted on the APD Facebook page, “Today we are excited to announce the promotion of Captain Desmond Bittner.

A true Antioch native, Captain Desmond Bittner has dedicated his entire law enforcement career to the Antioch Police Department—starting as a police Cadet (then called the Explorer program) and working his way up through the ranks to Captain!

Over the years, Captain Bittner has:
Served in Investigations
Been a Recruit Training Officer at the academy
Led the SWAT team as Commander
Overseen Field Services & Operations
(But you won’t catch him in Traffic or Canine—he doesn’t like writing tickets and is allergic to dogs!)

With a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Criminal Justice Administration, plus advanced leadership training, Captain Bittner is a well-respected leader in the department.

Outside of work, he:
Coaches his son’s baseball team
Practices Brazilian jiu-jitsu
Once competed professionally in CrossFit!

During the ceremony, Chief Vigil shared about the new captain:

“Captain Desmond Bittner was born and raised in the City of Antioch. He began his law enforcement career with the Antioch Police Department as a police cadet. While working as a Community Service Officer, he was hired as a police officer. Throughout his time in the Antioch Police Department, Captain Bittner has been promoted through the ranks and has served as a Corporal, Sergeant, Lieutenant, and most recently acted as Captain.

“Throughout his career Captain Bittner has worked in investigations, been a recruit training officer at the police academy, and has served as the departments Special Weapons and Tactics commander. He has overseen field services and operations and has never worked in traffic or canine because he does not like writing tickets and is allergic to dogs.

“Captain Bitter has also completed Management School and participated in California’s Police Officers Standards and Training Leadership and Wellness Symposium.

“He has been married to his wife Kristel for the last twenty-one years and they have a fourteen-year-old son named Patton. In his spare time Captain Bittner enjoys managing his son’s baseball team and practicing Brazilian jiu-jitsu. In his younger years, Captain Bittner competed professionally in the world of sports and fitness, which we know to be CrossFit.

“Fun Fact: Captain Bittner met his wife Kristel when they were just eight years old!

Join us in celebrating Captain Bittner’s leadership and dedication to our community!”

As previously reported, Vigil administered the oath of office to Bittner, along with two new officers, Canaan Lutu and Charise Holloway. The chief later led them, new Dispatcher Paige Garner and part-time Records Technician Sirinity Burkett in reciting the International Association of Chiefs of Police Oath of Honor.

Bittner then shared some thoughts and thanks for the promotion.

Offers Thanks, Says He Was Inspired by Late Uncle – a Former Pittsburg Cop
When reached for comment about his promotion Bittner said, “First and foremost, as a Christian, I always thank God first in looking over my family and the department and guiding me in my career.”

He then shared what he said at the ceremony.

“I thanked Chief Vigil for the promotion,” the new captain stated. “I invited the retired APD officers I worked with through my career and thanked them and made sure they know they’d never be forgotten. I also invited some officers from the Pittsburg PD and thanked them for all they do for the City of Antioch and our department.”

“I’ve always had a special place in my heart for Pittsburg PD,” Bittner continued. “My uncle Norm Bittner worked for Pittsburg PD in the 1980’s. He was instrumental in me becoming interested in law enforcement. He passed away some years ago. It’s always been a big part of my life.”

“I also gave thanks to all the staff I’ve worked with through the years who worked under me and always made me look good as a lieutenant,” he added.

The new captain is one of two currently on the Antioch Police force including Captain Matt Koch. Bittner currently oversees Support Services which include investigations, Internal Affairs, training, recruiting and dispatch. Koch oversees Field Services, which includes patrol, SWAT, the Crisis Negotiation Team, the UAS-Unmanned Aerial System (drone) Team, traffic and volunteers.

“There will be a third one, soon,” Bittner stated. “They’re creating a new division in for the agreement with DOJ, which should be operational sometime in July.” That captain will take on some of Bittner’s responsibilities “to spread out the work,” he added.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Leslie May, who is Black, used “the N-word” twice to describe city manager, then-city attorney both of whom are also Black

On next Tuesday’s council meeting agenda

“What was most troubling to me…the city manager was in tears. That’s not acceptable.” District 3 Councilman Don Freitas

By Allen D. Payton

Speaking during Council Committee Reports and Communication at the Antioch City Council meeting on Jan. 28, 2025, District 3 Councilman Don Freitas was very critical of racially charged comments by Police Oversight Commission Member Leslie May during public comments at the special council meeting on Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. As previously reported, the commissioner, who is Black, referred to City Manager Bessie Scott, who is also Black, as the “house ni**er” and then-City Attorney Thomas L. Smith, who is also Black, as the “field ni**er”. Freitas initially asked for May to publicly apologize and recommended she resign from the commission. He is now asking the council to consider her removal, and the matter has been placed on the agenda for a decision during their next regular meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 11.

“Something I found very troubling, because words matter and when you have a particular individual stand up and using derogatory terms to the city manager and the then-city attorney, it was very troubling to me,” Freitas stated. “What was most troubling to me is when we adjourned and got into the elevator to go to the Third Floor to conduct our Closed Session, the city manager was in tears. That’s not acceptable.”

“I would recommend…when you, Mr. Mayor talked about a code of conduct, not only for ourselves, but for board members, commission members, because they are representing us, the City of Antioch,” he said while pounding his finger on the dais.

“Some of the most racist statements were made, and it concerns me that this particular individual is on the Oversight committee who is supposed to be monitoring behavior in the department, one issue is racism,” Freitas continued. “It is absolutely unacceptable in any forum to use the term, the “the N-word” not once, not twice but directed to the city manager and the then-city attorney.”

“I personally believe this individual owes an apology to the city manager, to this council and to this community,” he added.

“I would strongly recommend that she resigns from the Police Oversight committee, and we get the code of conduct so that we know what is expected of us as individuals as elected members and appointed members,” Freitas concluded. (See 3:05:05 mark of meeting video)

Under Item 7 on the Council meeting agenda for Feb. 11, the staff report reads, “It is recommended that the City Council consider removing Commissioner Leslie May from the Antioch Police Oversight Commission effective immediately. Antioch Municipal Code (AMC) § 2-5.202 states that members of boards and commissions serve at the pleasure of the City Council and may be removed by majority vote of the City Council if properly noticed on the public portion of a City Council Agenda. AMC § 4-3.104 states that members of the Police Commission shall serve at the pleasure of the City Council and may be removed from office by a majority vote of the Council.”

May’s comments on Jan.17th weren’t the first to raise eyebrows. She has made several other racially-charged comments during previous council meetings and on the Antioch Herald Facebook page, for which she was challenged by this reporter, including calling some residents, “colonizers”.

According to a column by Damon Young, on The Root website entitled, “Is ‘Colonizer’ the Best Word for Problematic White People Ever?” the term colonizer is “the perfect slur for white people.” He wrote that it’s “one that smashes historical reverence and contemporary snark and pith together into a tasty slur sangria.” The columnist also wrote about the term, “Slurs are meant to shame and induce claustrophobia—a sense of perpetual unwelcome. But how unwelcoming can a word be if your status exists as a boundless welcome mat? Colonizer, however, recognizes that dynamic and inverts it by laughing at it instead of lauding it. It’s a Jedi slur trick.”

Transit-Oriented Communities Policy Presentation
The council then received a presentation from the Metropolitan Transportation Commission on the City’s required Transit-Oriented Communities (TOC) Policy. TOCs feature housing and business development that is near to transportation, putting public transit in reach for more people and improving the quality of life in the Bay Area. (See details in related article)

Approves Contract with Interim City Attorney’s Law Firm
Under agenda Item 7, the City Council voted 5-0 to adopt a resolution approving the agreement with Cole and Huber LLP to provide Interim City Attorney Services for an amount up to $400,000. Partner Derek Cole is serving in the role.

Rescinds Resolution Requiring City Attorney Hire All Outside Attorneys
That was followed by Item 8, City Council adopted a resolution rescinding Resolution No. 2021/26, which implemented a policy for the City Attorney’s office to select all outside attorneys providing legal services and managing related agreements and invoices for City departments.

During discussion of the matter, Freitas asked City Manager Scott if a department, “director signs off on it, does it also need the signature of the city manager?” She responded, “Yes, it will come through me.”

“So, ultimately they all cross your desk, as well?” he pressed further.

“Yes,” she said. “None of the directors, as much as I love them, will be willy nilly signing off on anything. I will hopefully work with the city attorney to, hopefully, set a litigation ceiling in this budget cycle as much as possible. So, it will actually be managed better.”

“We are rescinding this resolution which means that it’s going back to the way it’s always been done,” District 1 Councilwoman Tamisha Torres-Walker explained. “So, this was the change in response to the massive litigation the city was facing after the incidents with the police department…with the understanding the city manager will have full oversight.”

“Yes,” Scott reiterated. “I will say I have worked with many city attorneys…and this is really unusual. So, yes, it will go back to…and I would discourage anyone coming in putting it back to this, unless there is another area with a gap in leadership. There was a turn in city managers, and it made sense.” Then referring to former City Attorney Thomas L. Smith she continued, “He had to compensate somehow and fill that vacuum. But this is not normal.”

“I think with us now having the stipulated agreement and…not necessarily in the police department everything starting to level out, I definitely support rescinding this resolution,” Torres-Walker added.

She then made the motion, seconded by District 2 Councilman Louie Rocha. The council then passed the motion on a vote of 5-0.

After dealing with two other items which have been or will be described in separate news reports, including appointing Standby Council Members, and the Development Agreement with APS West Coast, Inc. for the AMPORTS automotive logistics and processing facility for vehicles prior to their distribution to dealerships, to be located on Wilbur Avenue along the waterfront in the northeast part of the city, the council meeting adjourned at midnight.

See the entire Annotated Meeting Agenda.