Antioch PD, Contra Costa Sheriff’s Dep’t among 148 Cannabis Tax Fund Grant Program recipients
CCC Sheriff Forensic Services Division will use funds for toxicology crime lab
By Tami Grimes, CHP Public Information Officer
SACRAMENTO – The California Highway Patrol (CHP) today announced more than $35 million in grant funding to 148 California law enforcement agencies, crime laboratories, local government agencies and nonprofit organizations to help address the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
“As the legal cannabis market continues to grow, so do the state’s efforts to ensure Californians are recreating responsibly. By supporting the organizations that enforce and amplify our laws on the ground, we can keep everyone safer,” said Governor Gavin Newsom.
The grants from Proposition 64, the Control, Regulate and Tax Adult Use of Marijuana Act, assigned the CHP the responsibility of administering grants for education, prevention and enforcement programs aimed at helping communities tackle impaired driving. Additionally, funds are available for crime laboratories that conduct forensic toxicology testing. The funding for these grants comes from a tax on the sale of cannabis and cannabis products in California.
Source: CHP
“This funding represents a major step forward in our ongoing mission to save lives and prevent impaired driving,”said CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee. “With over $35 million going to nearly 150 public safety partners across the state, we’re expanding our reach like never before. These resources will help those on the frontlines keep California’s roads safer for everyone.”
These funds will go towards a variety of activities. One hundred twenty-six recipients of law enforcement grants will use the funding to combat impaired driving in their communities, including Antioch, Danville, Pinole, Pleasant Hill, Richmond and San Ramon Police Departments. The funds will also support drug recognition evaluator training to improve the identification of drug-impaired drivers, as well as public outreach campaigns, including educational presentations and community events.
Eleven recipients of education grants will use the funds to inform local communities about impaired driving laws while highlighting the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
Source: CHP
Seven recipients of two-year toxicology crime laboratory grants, including the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Department Forensic Services Division, will use the funds to eliminate backlogs in analyzing forensic science evidence and to purchase or upgrade laboratory equipment to enhance testing capabilities.
Four recipients of two-year medical examiner’s and coroner’s office grants will use the funds to improve and advance data collection in cases involving driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
With the passage of Proposition 64, the Control, Regulate, and Tax Adult Use of Marijuana Act (AUMA), California voters mandated the state set aside funding for the California Highway Patrol (CHP) to award grants to local governments and qualified nonprofit organizations, as described in Revenue and Taxation Code Section 34019(f)(3)(B).
The Cannabis Tax Fund Grant Program marks an important step toward reducing impaired driving crashes, increasing public awareness surrounding the dangers of impaired driving, and making California’s roadways a safer place to travel.
The application process for future grant funding is expected to reopen in early 2026. More information is available on the CHP website at CHP’s Cannabis Tax Fund Grant Program.
The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.
Holiday Enforcement Period Friday, May 23 at 6:01 PM to Monday, May 26 at 11:59 PM
SACRAMENTO — As Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial beginning of summer, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) urges drivers and passengers to prioritize safety by buckling up before each trip.
The CHP will begin its annual statewide Memorial Day Holiday Enforcement Period (HEP) on Friday, May 23, at 6:01 p.m. and continue through Monday, May 26, at 11:59 p.m. To help maintain safety on California’s roadways, CHP officers will be vigilant for impaired and reckless drivers and motorists who fail to buckle up.
“Our top priority is keeping the public safe, not just during the holidays but daily,” said CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee. “Buckling up is one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect yourself and your passengers in a crash. Our officers will be out in force to help everyone arrive at their destination safely.”
In addition to CHP officers driving traditional black-and-white patrol vehicles, motorists are reminded that they may encounter the CHP’s new generation of low-profile Specially Marked Patrol Vehicles on the roadway. These fully marked patrol vehicles blend into traffic just enough to observe the most reckless and dangerous driving behaviors without immediate detection.
Last year, 42 people lost their lives in crashes across California during Memorial Day weekend. Tragically, nearly half of all vehicle occupants killed in a crash within CHP jurisdiction were not wearing seatbelts. CHP officers also made more than 1,100 arrests for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
California law mandates that all drivers and passengers aged eight and older must wear seatbelts. Children under eight need to be properly secured in an appropriate child passenger safety seat or booster seat situated in the back seat of the vehicle. Children under two must also ride in a rear-facing car seat unless they weigh more than 40 pounds or are taller than 40 inches.
This year, the CHP’s holiday enforcement effort coincides with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) designation of May 19 – June 1 as the national “Click it or Ticket” mobilization campaign. Throughout this awareness initiative, CHP personnel will concentrate their enforcement efforts on seat belt and child safety seat violations.
As always, the CHP urges everyone to make smart choices behind the wheel: Buckle up. Drive sober. Stay alert. If you plan to drink or use drugs, arrange for a safe ride home before heading out. Your safety and the safety of others depend on it.
Let’s work together to make this Memorial Day weekend safe for all Californians.
The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime cultural adventure! Join the Chichibu Sister City Program and experience the beauty, traditions, and warm hospitality of Chichibu, Japan. From breathtaking landscapes to rich history, this is your chance to build lifelong connections and unforgettable memories. Last year, delegates from Japan joined us here in Antioch, and this summer, it’s our turn to visit Japan! Apply today and be part of this amazing exchange!
Learn more information about the Antioch Chichibu Sister City Program when you visit their Facebook page Antioch-Chichibu Sister City Organization or email AntiochChichibuSCO@gmail.com.
Eastbound and westbound views of the now open Sand Creek Road Extension including the bridge over the creek. Herald file photos.
Connects Heidorn Ranch Road and Hillcrest Avenue in Antioch to Hwy 4
By Allen D. Payton
The City of Brentwood announced on Monday, “The Sand Creek Road Extension is NOW OPEN! We’re thrilled to bring this new roadway to the community and hope it enhances your travels. Please drive safely and enjoy the new route!”
About the delay in the road’s opening two weeks after the ribbon cutting, Assistant City Manager Darin Gale said, “The extension is a unique project because it starts at an intersection that’s controlled by Caltrans and ends at an intersection that’s controlled by Antioch.”
“There were still some items that needed to be completed before we could open the road,” he shared, reiterating what City Manager Tim Ogden said during the ribbon cutting ceremony on Jan. 28. (See related article)
“We appreciate the partnership with those two agencies in getting the road open as quickly as possible” Gale added.
“Part of the intersection built by the developer in Antioch had not yet been approved by the City of Antioch,” he explained as one of the reasons for the delay.
Aerial view of the Sand Creek Road Extension at Heidorn Ranch Road. Source: City of Brentwood
Gale was asked about the timing of the opening and if it had anything to do with the new Costco opening nearby.
He responded, “The City of Brentwood was moving forward with the Sand Creek Road anyway. However, the road does provide a connection to Costco. While it was coincidental to the timing of the opening of Costco, it helped us with attracting the store to Brentwood.”
“We look forward to Sand Creek Road serving the Brentwood Innovation Center (located to the north) and bringing jobs to the residents of East County,” Gale stated.
The new section of the road now connects to the Antioch section at Heidorn Ranch Road, then to Hillcrest Avenue and west to the road that runs north adjacent to Dozier Libbey Medical High School in Antioch.
Gale also reiterated what Antioch Mayor Ron Bernal said at the ribbon cutting, as previously reported. He said, “Richland Communities over to the west of us, they’re going to be starting this year, I’m told, on their subdivision that’s going to build that final link between Sand Creek Road, where it terminates right now, and Deer Valley Road. So, that’s going to be able to get residents and folks over to Kaiser, which is important, getting people off of Deer Valley Road.”
Sand Creek Road will eventually connect to Dallas Ranch Road in Antioch, on the west side of Deer Valley Road and run through The Ranch 1,177-new home subdivision developed by Richland Communities and approved by the Antioch City Council in July 2020.
Includes reckless driving & sideshow enforcement, electric bicycle safety, autonomous vehicles, retail theft, more
SACRAMENTO – As we head into the new year, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) is highlighting the new public safety laws that were passed during this year’s legislative session and signed by Governor Gavin Newsom. Unless otherwise noted, the laws referenced below take effect on January 1, 2025.
Assembly Bill 1978 permits storing a vehicle when an individual is arrested but not taken into custody for obstructing or placing a barricade a highway or off-street parking facility for purposes of aiding a speed contest or exhibition of speed.
Assembly Bill 2186 permits the arrest and custody of individuals engaged in an exhibition of speed in an off-street parking facility. It also permits the impounding of the individual’s vehicle for not more than 30 days.
Assembly Bill 2645 allows transportation agencies operating electronic toll collection systems to share real-time license plate data with law enforcement during active emergency alerts, such as AMBER, Ebony, or Feather Alerts. This legislation eliminates the need for a search warrant in such situations, enabling quicker responses to locate suspect vehicles linked to emergencies, such as child abductions.
Beginning January 1, 2026, SB 1271 focuses on improving the safety standards for electric bicycles (e-bikes), powered mobility devices, and related lithium-ion batteries. It requires these devices and their components, such as batteries and charging systems, to be tested by accredited laboratories to meet specific safety standards. The bill also mandates labeling these products to show compliance with safety regulations, ensuring consumers are informed. Furthermore, it prohibits distributing, selling, or leasing e-bikes and related equipment unless they meet these standards, aiming to reduce risks like fire hazards and electrical malfunctions. Beginning January 1, 2028, the bill would prohibit a person from renting or offering for rental an electric bicycle, powered mobility device, charging system, or storage battery unless it has been tested to the specified safety standard.
Assembly Bill 1774 prohibits modifying an electric bicycle’s speed capability to an extent it no longer meets the definition of an electric bicycle. Also, it prohibits selling a product or device that can modify the speed capability of an electric bicycle to an extent it no longer meets the definition of an electric bicycle.
Assembly Bill 1778 authorizes a local authority within the County of Marin, or the County of Marin in unincorporated areas, to enact an ordinance or resolution prohibiting a person under 16 years of age from operating a class 2 electric bicycle or requiring a person operating a class 2 electric bicycle to wear a helmet.
Assembly Bill 2234 establishes the San Diego Electric Bicycle Safety Program and authorizes a local authority within the County of San Diego, or the County of San Diego in unincorporated areas, to enact an ordinance or resolution prohibiting a person under 12 years of age from operating a class 1 or 2 electric bicycle.
Senate Bill 1297 establishes a five-year Speed Safety System Pilot Program in the City of Malibu. The bill defines a ‘speed safety system’ as a fixed or mobile radar or laser system, or any other electronic device that utilizes automated equipment, to detect a violation of speed laws and obtains a clear photograph of a speeding vehicle’s license plate. The bill establishes mandates regarding policy, enforcement, implementation, public notification, and a system evaluation report.
Assembly Bill 2678 permits vehicles with a Clean Air Vehicle decal to drive in High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes until January 1, 2027, if federal law permits.
Senate Bill 1313 prohibits using, possessing, or selling devices designed to interfere with driver monitoring systems in vehicles equipped with advanced driver assistance systems or autonomous technology. These systems monitor driver alertness and help ensure safety when automated features are used. Violating this law is classified as an infraction. Exceptions are provided for manufacturers testing new technology, vehicle repairs, and updates compliant with safety standards or modifications for disability accommodations. This law aims to enhance road safety by preventing tampering with critical monitoring systems.
Upon the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) adoption of necessary regulations, AB 1777 creates new authority for a law enforcement officer to issue a “notice of autonomous vehicle (AV) noncompliance” to an AV manufacturer for an alleged traffic violation committed by one of their vehicles. Beginning July 1, 2026, AB 1777 establishes additional requirements for how AVs that operate without a human operator in the vehicle interact with first responders, including a requirement for manufacturers to provide a two-way device in the vehicles to communicate with first responders.
Assembly Bill 1904 authorizes a transit agency to equip a transit bus with a “yield” right-of-way sign on the left rear of the bus. The sign may be a static decal or a flashing light-emitting diode (LED).
Senate Bill 905 creates the crime of Unlawful Entry of a Vehicle, which addresses unlawfully entering a vehicle with the intent to commit a theft or any felony. It also adds the crime of Automotive Property Theft for Resale, which addresses possessing stolen property obtained from a vehicle with the intent to sell or exchange the property for value. The property’s value must be over $950.00 and not for personal use. The value of property can be combined within two years of separate acts.
Senate Bill 982 makes the crime of organized retail theft permanent and strengthens measures to address retail crime. The bill eliminates the expiration date for specific provisions targeting organized retail theft, ensuring long-term tools for law enforcement to combat this issue.
Senate Bill 1242 amends Penal Code Section 452 regarding the unlawful setting of fires. It updates penalties and legal language to clarify offenses, including circumstances involving organized retail theft.
Senate Bill 1416 focuses on combating organized retail theft by increasing penalties for those involved in the resale of stolen goods, often referred to as “fencing.” The bill, until January 1, 2030, creates sentencing enhancements for individuals who sell, exchange, or return stolen property for value, particularly when the property exceeds specific thresholds. Punishment increases from one year to four years based on a property value scale ranging from $50,000 to over $3 million.
Assembly Bill 1779 addresses the issue of organized retail theft by streamlining the prosecution process. Specifically, it allows district attorneys to consolidate charges for theft offenses committed across multiple counties into a single trial, provided all affected county district attorneys agree.
Assembly Bill 1802 ensures that the crime of organized retail theft remains permanently defined in state law and extends the CHP’s Property Crimes Task Force indefinitely. This bill eliminates the “sunset” clause that would have otherwise allowed the statute and the task force to expire.
Assembly Bill 1972 expands the scope of the CHP’s Regional Property Crimes Task Force to include cargo theft as a property crime for consideration and requires the task force to provide logistical and law enforcement support for railroad police.
This bill emphasizes cargo theft as a specific priority and aims to strengthen resources for law enforcement agencies to combat these issues. As an urgency statute, AB 1972 went into effect immediately upon its passage in August 2024 to address these concerns promptly.
Assembly Bill 2943, also called the “California Retail Theft Reduction Act,” strengthens measures to combat organized retail theft by creating a specific crime for serial retail theft, allowing the aggregation of property value for thefts committed within 90 days to qualify as grand theft. It empowers law enforcement to make arrests using video evidence or sworn statements, shields businesses from lawsuits for reporting crimes and promotes rehabilitation through diversion programs for minor offenders. The bill aims to dismantle theft rings while balancing public safety and criminal justice reforms.
Assembly Bill 3209 creates a retail crime restraining order. A court may issue a restraining order when sentencing an individual for specific retail theft-related crimes, including vandalism of a retail store and assaulting a retail store employee. The restraining order prohibits the individual from entering or being on the grounds of the establishment and may include parking lots adjacent to and used by the establishment.
The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.
SACRAMENTO – As families prepare to celebrate the holidays, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) reminds everyone to prioritize safety on the road. To keep travelers safe throughout the busy holiday season, the CHP is initiating the first of two statewide Maximum Enforcement Periods (MEP) this month to reduce traffic incidents by targeting unsafe driving behaviors and assisting motorists.
The CHP’s Christmas MEP begins at 6:01 p.m. on Tuesday, December 24, and continues until 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, December 25. During this period, the CHP will increase patrols throughout the state to deter dangerous driving behaviors, including impaired driving, speeding, distracted driving and seat belt violations. The CHP also encourages the public to report unsafe drivers by calling 9-1-1.
“This time of year is about celebrating with family and friends, but it’s also a time when traffic incidents increase due to poor driving decisions,” said CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee. “Each of us has a role in making California’s roads safer. Let’s work together to keep this holiday season free of tragedy.”
Last year, during the 78-hour Christmas MEP, 20 people lost their lives in crashes within CHP jurisdiction. In addition, CHP officers made over 900 arrests for driving under the influence.
Let’s make safety our top priority on the road! Buckle up, drive responsibly, and if you’re celebrating, always plan for a sober ride. Your thoughtful choices can help prevent crashes and keep California’s roads safe for everyone. Celebrate wisely and drive with care!
The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.
Galatea on a Dolphin, a 19th century Italian marble sculpture, illuminated in the Lily Pond on the Main Terrace of Hearst Castle – one of the many works that can be viewed as part of the ‘Art Under the Moonlight’ tour. Photo from California State Parks
‘Art Under the Moonlight’ tours will allow guests to explore William Randolph Hearst’s famed art collection like never before
By California Department of Parks and Recreation, Divisions of Boating and Waterways, Historic Preservation and Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation
SAN SIMEON, Calif.— California State Parks is excited to announce a new limited series of evening tours at the iconic Hearst Castle® this fall. The “Art Under the Moonlight” tours will offer guests a unique opportunity to explore William Randolph Hearst’s world-renowned art collection like never before – under the enchanting glow of the moon. These guided tours will be available on select Fridays and Saturdays from Oct. 4 through Nov. 16. Due to the limited availability, reservations are highly recommended.
WHAT: ‘Art Under the Moonlight’ tours WHEN: Select Fridays and Saturdays from Oct. 4 – Nov. 16, 2024 WHERE: Hearst San Simeon State Historical Monument (Hearst Castle®) COST: $50 for guests over 12 years old, $25 for children ages 5-12, no cost for children under 5. ACCESSIBILITY: The tour will involve navigating 160 stairs and will take moderate effort. An ADA-accessible version of the tour that involves no stairs and can accommodate up to four people per tour is also available. HOW TO JOIN: Visit HearstCastle.org or ReserveCalifornia.com to make your reservation. The tour lasts 100 minutes.
The new tour offers a rare chance to view illuminated outdoor works of art while learning about their significance through time and enjoying their beauty as one of Hearst’s honored guests would have done in the 1930s. Inside the historic castle, guests will get an intimate look at the art collection that the influential media mogul amassed during his time there.
“This is an incredible opportunity to be under the moonlight on the same path that Mr. Hearst and his guests strolled while smelling the fragrant blooms and hearing the calming sound of the hilltop fountains,” said San Luis Obispo Coast District Superintendent Dan Falat. “The evenings are magical here, and this one-of-a-kind art collection is shown off in the best lighting.”
About Hearst Castle®
La Cuesta Encantada, “The Enchanted Hill” high above the ocean at San Simeon, was the creation of two extraordinary individuals, William Randolph Hearst and architect Julia Morgan. Their collaboration, which began in 1919 and continued for 28 years, transformed an informal hilltop campsite into the world-famous Hearst Castle® – an estate that comprises the magnificent 115-room main house plus three sumptuous guesthouses, pools, and 127 acres of terraced gardens, fountains, and paths. The main house, “Casa Grande” and the three guesthouses, “Casa del Monte,” “Casa del Sol,” and “Casa del Mar” are home to Hearst’s extraordinary art collection and have hosted many influential guests, including President Calvin Coolidge, Winston Churchill, George Bernard Shaw, Hedda Hopper, Joan Crawford, Charlie Chaplin, and a diverse array of luminaries from the sports, show business, and publishing industries.
The California Department of Parks and Recreation, popularly known as State Parks, and the programs supported by its Office of Historic Preservation and divisions of Boating and Waterways and Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation provide for the health, inspiration and education of the people of California by helping to preserve the state’s extraordinary biological diversity, protecting its most valued natural and cultural resources, and creating opportunities for high-quality outdoor recreation. Learn more at parks.ca.gov.
With Wilson absent also approves resolution opposing Amtrak station closure
Staff working on developing possible DEI policies, not position, yet
Torres-Walker issues another diatribe from the dais, slams DA, Grand Jury investigations of alleged Brown Act violations
Close meeting in honor of late former Reserve Officer Frank Rupani, woman shot and killed by police in Illinois
By Allen D. Payton
After over 10 months of discussing an ordinance and multiple votes, with Mayor Pro Tem Monica Wilson absent, the Antioch City Council, on Tuesday night, July 23, 2024, voted 3-0-1 to finally barely approve a ban on sideshow organizers, advertisers and spectators. District 1 Councilwoman Tamisha Torres-Walker voted to abstain. The council also approved on a unanimous vote a resolution opposing the decommissioning of the Antioch Amtrak station.
Ban on Sideshow Organizers, Advertisers and Spectators
Before council discussion of the second reading for the ordinance banning organizing, advertising and being a spectator at sideshows, public comments were received. Former councilman Ralph Hernandez spoke first saying, “I fully support that the city enact a very strict ordinance. These are very dangerous things. They’re advocating for criminality. When you have people actually come to Antioch to see these sideshows…they have actually become art of a conspiracy which is not just a misdemeanor, it’s a felony. They’re standing on the sidewalk encouraging the participants. They’re actually becoming participants…aiding and abetting the criminality.
“Give the police the weapons they need to fight this kind of crime,” he added.
Alexander Broom said, “Last meeting we discussed possibly narrowing the definition of what a spectator is for this ordinance. Although I do support the ordinance, still…I don’t think we should leave any slack in what a participant is and obviously, a participant and a spectator in these situations are different and I think the language used in this ordinance is just far too broad and it opens things up.”
“I don’t think we should be discouraging people observing, witnessing these events,” he continued. “Especially, if that prevents them from assisting police in capturing license plates and these illegal acts. It’s not illegal to observe a crime.”
“I just ask that we consider, tonight narrowing down what a participant is to not… giving our law enforcement officers the opportunity to make a mistake. Because those mistakes are costly for the city…for the residents…for those who may not be guilty of this crime,” he concluded.
During council discussion, District 3 Councilwoman Lori Ogorchock said it was, “another tool in the toolbelt for our police officers.” She then attempted to again add in the ordinance items she had requested that the other councilmembers wouldn’t accept at their meeting on June 25. They include “impounding vehicles until the court date and increasing fines and fines for our resources.” The councilwoman asked that they be brought back, “to see if those can be added to the ordinance at a later date.”
Torres-Walker then asked Acting Chief Brian Addington multiple questions about sideshows in the city and how the department will enforce the ordinance asking, “How many, year-to-date, so, in the past six months, how many sideshows have occurred…with 50 to 100 spectators?”
He responded, “Unfortunately, I wasn’t prepared for that question so, I don’t have the exact stats. But I would venture to say there’s been more than 15.”
“With 50 to 100 spectators?” the councilwoman repeated. “Not vehicles, not drivers, just spectators.”
“With 50 to 100 people participating in the event,” said the chief.
“Excluding the drivers,” Torres-Walker pressed further.
“Yes. With hundreds of people out there,” Addington stated.
“So, maybe 15. I’m just trying to get the number because it hasn’t been in anything I’ve seen,” said the councilwoman.
She then asked, “How many of these activities have you needed to request mutual aid for from other cities”
The chief responded, “I would say at least half of those and some smaller ones, as well.”
“What typically happens is they start as big ones and then they start breaking up into smaller ones,” he continued. “So, you may have two or 300 at one event, and the next thing you know that breaks up and the next one is 100 and it may go down to 50.”
“Right. So, more than half the sideshows that you experienced with the potential for 50 to 100 participants plus, spectators, you’ve needed mutual aid from outside cities for,” Torres-Walker asked again.
“We have requested mutual aid,” Addington clarified. “Sometimes some other agencies have been able to send officers to assist. Sometimes they have not.”
“How large is your current traffic division,” she then asked.
“Right now, we have one sergeant and one officer assigned to the traffic division,” the Chief answered.
“So, two?” the councilwoman asked. “And when you need to respond to a large sideshow how do you make up the difference? You pull everybody from all beats to the one location.”
“Yes,” the Chief said. “Most traffic officers generally work during the day and a lot of our sideshows occur in the late evening and on the weekends. Sometimes we have our traffic officers working those hours, obviously, so, we want to be prepared. But the vast majority of sideshows are handled by the beat officers, and we have to pull all of our resources to go and deal with these sideshows. Then, as I mentioned, call in additional resources when they’re available from other agencies. So, it’s a considerable undertaking.”
“How does it work to enforce this ordinance? Is that through the department of vehicle or through the district attorney or both?” Torres-Walker asked. “How is somebody charged with a misdemeanor that would trigger the fine, the forced, the volunteering? Who imposes that? Is it the district attorney’s office?”
“So, usually there’s two routes…the criminal prosecution route or you could do the administrative citation route which would be a function of the City,” the Chief responded. “But generally, it is through the criminal route and it goes through the district attorney’s office.”
“The route this ordinance is proposing is a citation?” she asked and then answered her own question saying, “It will be both.”
“Yes,” Addington confirmed.
“Have you had the chance to talk to anybody at the district attorney’s office?” Torres-Walker then asked.
“Yes, ma’am,” he responded.
“And what was that conversation like,” she asked.
“We talked about training. We talked about different sections that are applicable and the use of the ordinance, as well,” the Chief responded.
“And so, they’re familiar with all of this? They already know how to run it through?” the councilwoman asked. “And I’m sure every citation will be under a microscope.”
“They know how to review these cases, yes,” Addington stated.
Torres-Walker then asked, “Do you believe that there’s any potential of any policy to have disparate impact on certain communities?”
“I think our officers are going to do the best they can to enforce the law based on the information that they see at the time,” the chief responded.
The District 1 councilwoman said the initial focus was on “proactive enforcement. How do you stop it before it happens?”
“The $1,000 fines that are being collected, where’s that money going and how is it going to be spent,” she asked City Attorney Thomas L. Smith and Acting City Manager Kwame Reed.
Smith responded, “Those fines are not going to be delivered to the city for expenditure. Those are under the penal code and so, I don’t know exactly how they spend them. But it’s not the city’s pot of money if that’s the question.”
“Well, I know that the fines won’t come to the city,” Torres-Walker stated. “I just wanted you to say it so people in the public who have asked me will know that these particular fines won’t come back to the city in any type of way for any monetary value for any other use or purpose and they also won’t be going to the police department. So, there’s no physical [fiscal] benefit that the city will be receiving by passing this ordinance.”
“I think that the devil is really in implementation and enforcement and we won’t really know if it works or doesn’t until it’s enacted and we trust current officers who are committed to quality policing in Antioch to enforce this ordinance and see where it goes,” Torres-Walker concluded.
District 2 Councilman Mike Barbanica then made the motion to adopt the ordinance which was seconded by Ogorchock. With no further discussion the ordinance was adopted on a vote of 3-0-1 with Torres-Walker abstaining. (For details on the ordinance see related article)
Mayor Pro Tem Monica Wilson was absent during the council meeting on Tuesday, July 23, 2024. Video screenshot.
Resolution Opposing Decommission of Amtrak Station
Then, 16 months after the vote, at the suggestion of Councilwoman Ogorchock, the council considered, discussed and then adopted a resolution sending a message to the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority (SJJPA) opposing the decommissioning of the Antioch Amtrak station. As previously reported, the SJJPA board voted with the support of a minimum of six members in favor in March 2023.
Leslie May was the first of only three members of the public to speak on the matter saying, “I am opposed to closing this station, as well, because I use it. I don’t have to depend on my daughter driving me. I have friends in Oregon I like to go see. There’s a lot of seniors that use it. I hope you do pass this resolution, tonight.”
Eddie Dotts spoke next saying “I’m just here to thank you in advance for passing this. I just got here today from the train, riding Amtrak. I always end up seeing someone I know on the train. I saw a senior who’s got to be at least 90 years old, up walking around on the train. Do everything you can to make sure Antioch stays viable in transportation.”
Andrew Becker said, “It’s frustrating. The resolution speaks of passenger rail service starting here in 1994. But that’s not true. The rail service came to Antioch all the way back to when the transcontinental rail was completed.”
“In 1910, passenger service started over in the downtown waterfront area,” he continued. “There was siding for trains to pull off. But in the 80’s the City of Antioch decided it was time to use redevelopment dollars to get rid of that siding. It was said it couldn’t be there anymore, it was too dangerous…in its current form and fashion.”
“Nobody has talked about what the rail authority wants…and the City of Antioch owns most of the right-of-way on each side of the rail line,” Becker added.
One proposal by the SJJPA staff during the March 24, 2023, board meeting was to add another track or siding, to allow for trains to pass each other along the route, which would allow for the Antioch station to remain open.
Ogorchock made the motion to oppose the decommissioning of the Amtrak station, Torres-Walker seconded it and the motion was adopted 4-0. (See resolution in related article)
No Action on Creating DEIB Officer Position, but Staff Says They’re Already Working on Developing DEIB Policies
Upon introducing the proposed Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Officer Position for the city, Torres-Walker said, “this was my request.”
During public comments Chima Oluo said he was “a springboard intern for our city attorney. I am in favor of a DEIB officer position…bring Antioch closer to a more equitable city.”
“I believe that more people don’t know what this is,” he continued. “DEI is fundamentally about promoting fairness and equal processes for all.” He gave examples of the City of Oakland and San Francisco and their DEI practices then said, “I believe Antioch can do this, too. Antioch can establish similar initiatives tailored to the needs of our residents. This will lay the foundation for a more inclusive Antioch.”
Torres-Walker then claimed the idea was the result of a conversation she had with one city employee.
The councilwoman said, “I would like to take full credit for this item, but this really came out of a conversation with a city staff person who wants to remain anonymous about the lack of human rights and racial equity policies in this city and the lack of diversity and inclusion in city staffing and in our policies.”
“We talked about the potential for this position because it exists in other cities,” Torres-Walker continued. “And giving the direction that this city is going in, we’re always saying we’re the third most, the second most diverse city and yet our public policy doesn’t show that, our hiring practices often doesn’t show that. So, I think it’s important to listen to city staff…because they don’t feel like it’s inclusive.”
“The last update I got from Acting City Manager Kwame Reed is that there might be an effort to look into the need for this position in this city,” she continued. “I can’t help myself because I’m a Black Latina and I’m a Black woman. When we talk about what we want to do for Black people, we say, ‘let’s do a feasibility study and see if Black people have any discrimination they face and then once we come back with those findings then we’ll see if there’s a policy needed to stop discriminating against Black people. Oh, let’s see if people with disabilities are really struggling.’”
“So, why do we need to do studies on issues that people are consistently telling us there’s an issue?” the District 1 councilwoman asked rhetorically. “Is there a need for this position? I would say that there is. I would say that we need to look into it.”
Then she broached the subject of the council’s Human Rights and Racial Equity Ad Hoc Committee.
“We had one public meeting to talk with the public about how they felt about human rights, racial equity and belonging in this city and then we haven’t discussed it again,” Torres-Walker continued.
She wanted another ad hoc committee “to actually create human rights and racial equity policies in this city because they do not exist.”
“Before we can have a Human Rights and Racial Equity Commission, we first need to have policies that address human rights and racial equity disparities in this city as well as a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Officer position to oversee and work with that commission to make sure that these policies are enforced,” the councilwoman stated. “And that good customer service that Councilman Barbanica was talking about. That happens when a city is inclusive.”
“So, I would love for that ad-hoc…to create the policies…to actually come back to the agenda,” she reiterated.
“The three of us did meet,” said Reed, referring to Acting Assistant City Manager Brad Helfenberger and Tasha Johnson, Director of the Public Safety and Community Resources Department. “This was the second RFP that we’re considering to bring back to council. The idea was not to make a determination on whether or not this position was needed…but to develop and do an assessment on how we can formulate the policies. So, it was not about whether this position was needed but how to get a game plan for the position to go forward. The idea is to hire a consultant to come in, do an assessment of the city and look at everything. That’s what we’re looking to do.”
“Our office is happy to help in any way…if you decide to move forward with the initiative,” City Attorney Smith said.
“I would like for the council to agree to allow the city manager, assistant city manager and Tasha Johnson to continue to move forward with the effort around an assessment,” Torres-Walker continued. “But to also grant my request for an ad hoc…to work on…policy for the city.”
Hernandez-Thorpe said, “I just think we need an expert to develop the policies. I’m agreeing with you on this position. Do we really need…we know the culture, here. It’s not rocket science. We did this before with youth services. Then we hired somebody and created an entire department. If we’re going to do all these studies to tell us what we already know.”
“The Department of Public Safety and Community Resources was created by me, thank you,” Torres-Walker then said.
“I think there are experts who do this we can contract out to,” the mayor said. “I don’t think this should sit in one department. It has to be a higher level. The department level, everybody has to be involved.”
“I hear you saying we shouldn’t do this. I hear you saying we need all departments involved,” Torres-Walker continued. “All policies would have to be evaluated.”
Reed said, “We always work together on things. So, we will work together on this.”
“That’s not normal in this city in my experience,” Torres-Walker responded.
“It doesn’t need our approval,” Ogorchock said.
“What’s on the agenda is the position,” Hernandez-Thorpe said.
“We’re not giving the direction to create a position,” Torres-Walker said.
“If you’re doing what you’re doing, then we’re good,” Hernandez-Thorpe said to Reed.
“I think we should have staff look into the creation of this position,” the District 1 councilwoman reiterated. “And it’s already happening and we’re really grateful.”
Then looking at the audience she said, “And we’re all going to be watching, aren’t we?”
However, city staff only said they are looking into developing DEIB policies, not creating the position.
Final Agenda Item Tabled
On the final item, #11 to create a Health and Safety Analyst position for the Human Resources Department, Torres-Walker said a city staff member who also wanted to remain anonymous suggested the position to her, “with concerns about safety, health and safety in the city, in our buildings and within our policies.”
But saying she wanted to “table this…not indefinitely, for me to have a deeper conversation with Acting City Manager Kwame Reed about what he’s been able to find,” the District 1 councilwoman then offered a motion to table. With no public or council comments the motion passed 4-0.
District 1 Councilwoman Tamisha Torres-Walker speaks during Council Communications at the end of the meeting on Tuesday, July 23, 2024, for which Mayor Pro Tem Monica Wilson was absent. Video screenshot
Torres-Walker Issues Another Diatribe from the Dais During Council Communications
During Council Communications, without identifying to or about whom she was speaking or referring, Torres-Walker provided another of her diatribes saying, “It’s a crazy time we’re in. What I want to say is Black face and minstrel shows never excited me and I don’t like Black face or minstrel shows. Which is why I will never let clear people use me to climb the political ladder to gain power over me and my community.”
“When we are in a time when well-educated professionals cannot think critically about what information they are getting and dissect it for truth and lies, we’re in a bad way,” she continued. “You have pencil pushers and keyboard warriors who are masquerading as journalists, voicing their opinions and not one smart person in the room could think to themselves that they need to be critical of what they’re reading over the internet.”
“And so, what I want to say tonight is that every accusation that has been thrown at every council member on this council, whether it was being a corrupt cop, which people have come and said all the time, or whether it’s a resident coming and talking about breeding dogs and selling them online, community members have come to this council accusing all of, every last one of us just about anything,” Torres-Walker stated. “What I want to say is think critically, know what you’re reading and taking in. Protect your ear gates. And the next time the mayor throws a karaoke or pizza party at his house we will be sure to invite the public, so they don’t mistake it for a public meeting. Thank you.” (See 2:53:30 mark of council meeting video)
That last comment was in reference to the accusations against her, Wilson and Hernandez-Thorpe of violating the state’s Brown Act open meeting law when they were at his home and allegedly discussed council business, including the redistricting of Councilwoman Ogorchock, moving her neighborhood from Districts 3 to 4, preventing her from running for re-election. The accusations resulted in an inconclusive investigation by the Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office and a separate investigation by the county’s Civil Grand Jury which issued a report to the council with directives on that matter and two others related to city staffing, ordering them to respond by September 13, 2024, and take actions to rectify within six months. (See related article)
Close Meeting in Honor of Former Antioch Reserve Officer, Woman Shot, Killed by Police in Illinois
The council then closed the meeting in honor of former Antioch Reserve Officer Frank Rupani, who recently passed away, and also, at the request of Torres-Walker, Sonya Massey, who was shot and killed by police in Springfield, IL during an incident earlier this month, caught on officers’ body cam footage.
