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.
The Antioch Amtrak station is scheduled to be decommissioned in the fourth quarter of 2025. The council will vote to oppose the closure Tuesday night. Herald file photos.
Resolution doesn’t mention former city manager’s name
Will consider approving $340K for another year of the 2024-25 Mayor’s Apprenticeship Program; potential creation of a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) Officer position
Proclamation recognizing Antioch-Chichibu Sister City delegation from Japan
By Allen D. Payton
Sixteen months after the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority Board of Directors voted to decommission the Antioch Amtrak station, during their meeting on Tuesday, July 23, 2024, the Antioch City Council will consider approving a resolution to send a message opposing the closure. It’s almost two years after then-City Manager Con Johnson learned of the proposed closure from SJJPA staff and in turn informed Mayor Lamar Hernandez-Thorpe.
In spite of the mayor saying at the end of the last council meeting he wanted to include the name of former city manager Ron Bernal, who Hernandez-Thorpe has repeatedly accused of approving the closure which Bernal denies and has been proven false through public records, the mayor’s opponent in the November election is not named in the resolution. (See related article)
According to the City staff report on the item (#9 on the agenda), “The Antioch-Pittsburg San Joaquins Passenger Stop began providing service to the east Contra Costa County region in Antioch on October 28, 1994. The Stop is served by the San Joaquins line that operates passenger rail service between Oakland and Bakersfield.
According to ridership data, the Antioch-Pittsburg San Joaquins Passenger Stop has provided approximately 106,000 on-boards and 118,200 off-boards between July 2016 and January of 2024. This equates to a daily average of 82 combined boarding types.
The San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority was established after the passage of Assembly Bill 1779 on August 30, 2012. This bill enabled local and regional agencies the ability to protect the San Joaquins rail service throughout the region.
On March 24, 2023, the SJJPA voted to decommission the Antioch-Pittsburg San Joaquins Passenger Stop (Amtrak Station). The decision to decommission the Antioch-Pittsburg San Joaquins Passenger Stop (Amtrak Station) did not have a comprehensive community engagement process nor an analysis concerning the impacts of their decision.
The decommissioning of the Antioch-Pittsburg San Joaquins Passenger Stop (Amtrak Station) will have an immediate negative impact on the local disadvantaged community which include low-income people of color, seniors, veterans, and small businesses that rely on the station.”
Following is the resolution of opposition prepared for discussion and adoption by the city council:
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANTIOCH OPPOSING THE DECOMMISSIONING OF THE ANTIOCH-PITTSBURG SAN JOAQUINS PASSENGER STOP (AMTRAK STATION) IN ANTIOCH
WHEREAS, the Antioch-Pittsburg San Joaquins Passenger Stop (Amtrak Station) in Antioch, CA, has been a vital transportation hub for residents and visitors, providing essential connectivity to regional and national destinations since it;
WHEREAS, the Antioch-Pittsburg San Joaquins Passenger Stop (Amtrak Station) has provided approximately 106,000 on-boardings and 118,200 off-boardings between July 2016 and January 2024 that equates to a daily average of 82 combined boardings;
WHEREAS, the City of Antioch is committed to maintaining and enhancing its transportation infrastructure to ensure the mobility, safety, and well-being of its residents and to support the City’s economic vitality and quality of life;
WHEREAS, the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority was established after AB 1779 was passed by the State Legislature on August 30, 2012, to enable local and regional agencies to protect the San Joaquin Rail Service throughout the San Joaquin Corridor;
WHEREAS, the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority voted to decommission the Antioch-Pittsburg San Joaquins Passenger Stop (Amtrak Station) on March 24, 2023, at Robert J. Cabral Station South Hall Meeting Room 949 East Channel Street Stockton, CA 95202 without providing official notice to the City government or people of Antioch;
WHEREAS, the decision to decommission the Antioch-Pittsburg San Joaquins Passenger Stop (Amtrak Station) did not have a comprehensive community engagement process nor an analysis concerning the impacts of the closure of the Antioch-Pittsburg San Joaquins Passenger Stop (Amtrak Station) on riders who utilize the station to travel to and from the Antioch-Pittsburg San Joaquins Passenger Stop (Amtrak Station);
WHEREAS, the decommissioning of the Antioch-Pittsburg San Joaquins Passenger Stop (Amtrak Station) will have an immediate negative impact on the local disadvantaged communities which include low-income people of color, seniors, veterans, and small businesses that rely on the station;
WHEREAS, the closure of the Antioch-Pittsburg San Joaquins Passenger Stop (Amtrak Station) would adversely affect the quality of life in Antioch; and
WHEREAS, the decommissioning of the Antioch-Pittsburg San Joaquins Passenger Stop (Amtrak Station) impacts the City of Antioch and other regional municipalities from accessing state funding that is associated with having a transportation corridor.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Antioch, California, hereby opposes the closing of the Antioch-Pittsburg San Joaquins Passenger Stop (Amtrak Station) in Antioch and urges Amtrak, the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority, and relevant stakeholders to explore all possible alternatives to keep the station open and operational.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Antioch calls upon federal, state, and local officials to join in opposition to the closure of the Antioch-Pittsburg San Joaquins Passenger Stop (Amtrak Station) and to advocate for the continued operation and investment in this critical transportation asset.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that copies of this resolution will be transmitted to the Governor of California, members of the California State Legislature, the United States Congress, the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority, and other relevant parties to underscore the City of Antioch’s strong opposition to the closing of the Antioch-Pittsburg San Joaquins Passenger Stop (Amtrak Station).
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, Antioch-Pittsburg San Joaquins Passenger Stop (Amtrak Station), protest the decision of the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority to close the Antioch-Pittsburg San Joaquins Passenger Stop (Amtrak Station), and call on the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority to not eliminate regular service to the Antioch-Pittsburg San Joaquins Passenger Stop (Amtrak Station) but rather operate both the Oakley and Antioch-Pittsburg San Joaquins Passenger Stop (Amtrak Station).
Proclamation Recognizing Antioch-Chichibu Sister City Delegation from Japan
At the beginning of the meeting, the council will vote to adopt a Proclamation in Honor of Welcoming the Visiting Delegation from Antioch’s Sister City of Chichibu, Saitama, Japan. The group of 14, including 10 students and four adults, will stay with local host families while here for a 10-day tour.
Will Consider Approving $340,000 for the 2024-25 Mayor’s Apprenticeship Program
On the Consent Calendar, item K., the council will consider authorizing the Acting City Manager or designee to execute an agreement with Rubicon Programs to provide professional services from September 1, 2024, through December 31, 2025, for an amount not to exceed $340,000 for the Mayor’s Apprenticeship Program.
According to the city staff report, the program “began as a pilot initiative in November 2022 and has completed its first two cohorts…recruited young adults ages 18-26 and employed 20 underemployed, underserved and underestimated participants who faced multiple barriers, including justice involvement, homelessness and the foster care system. Participants underwent 60 hours of workforce development training before placement…(and) ongoing professional development…throughout their part-time employment. Participants were placed in the Public Works Department of the City of Antioch to practice, learn and hone skills that would equip the for future employment.”
Potential Creation of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) Officer Position
At District 1 Councilmember Tamisha Torres-Walker’s request the council will consider the potential creation of a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) Officer position under agenda item #10. No information about the proposed position is provided in the city staff report including its purpose, in what department it would be placed and who the person would answer to. The report only shows, “The recommended action has no fiscal impact at this time.” But if the position is created, a salary and benefits package will be developed for it.
Across the country, government agencies, universities and businesses have been either cutting back or completely abandoning their DEI efforts due to significant backlash and the passage of new state laws according to a May 2024 report by Forbes.
According to an article on The Wharton School website, “Diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives that began during the racial reckoning of 2020, when the murder of George Floyd renewed demands for social justice, are being pulled apart by political and cultural shifts,” and “more than 30 states have introduced laws banning or limiting DEI initiatives, and many companies are cutting their DEI teams.”
At a time the city council members are 60% Black even though according to the U.S. Census Bureau, Black residents make up only 19.5% of the city’s population as of July 1, 2023, and the city staff has included two Black police chiefs, one permanent, one interim, a Black city attorney, two Black city managers, one permanent and the current one acting, and the Director of the Human Relations Department is an Hispanic woman, people are wondering why the position is even necessary.
The council is being asked to discuss the proposal and offer direction to staff.
The council meeting begins with a Closed Session at 6:00 p.m. in which includes conference with legal counsel on a lawsuit against the city, real property negotiation for the sale of the building at 275 W. Tregallas Road across from the Antioch Main Post Office that currently houses the Delta Learning Center, and the Public Employment – Recruitment of the City Manager.
Regular Session begins at 7:00 p.m. Council meetings can be watched livestream on the City’s website, on Comcast local cable channel 24 or AT&T U-verse channel 99, or in person inside the Council Chambers at City Hall, 200 H Street in historic, downtown Rivertown.
State’s excise tax on gasoline increased July 1 from 57.9 to 59.6 cents per gallon and from 44.1 to 45.4 cents per gallon for diesel fuel.
No end in the lawto annual increases based on state CPI
By Allen D. Payton
If you’re not already aware, the State of California gas tax increased today, July 1, 2024 according to the announcement in May by the Department of Tax and Fee Assessment (CDTFA). According to that notice as reported by the California Taxpayers Association, the state’s excise tax* on gasoline increased today “from 57.9 cents per gallon to 59.6 cents per gallon and from 44.1 cents per gallon to 45.4 cents per gallon for diesel fuel.”
According to the California Transportation Commission, “the Legislature passed and the Governor signed SB 1 (Beall, 2017)…increasing transportation funding and instituting much-needed reforms. SB 1 provides the first significant, stable, and on-going increase in state transportation funding in more than two decades.”
Contra Costa’s representatives at that time split on the bill, with then-Assemblyman Jim Frazier, who was chairman of the Assembly Transportation Committee, and Assemblyman Tim Grayson voting in favor, and State Senator Steve Glazer voting against.
Source: AAA
As of Monday, according to the American Automobile Association (AAA), which updates prices daily, drivers in Contra Costa County are paying an average of $4.869 per gallon of regular unleaded gas, while today’s Bay Area average is $4.943, California’s average is $4.794 and the national average is $3.491 per gallon.
Taxes & Fees in the Price for a Gallon of Gas
According to data from the California Energy Commission, drivers are now paying 90 cents in taxes per gallon of gas:
$0.596 on state excise tax
$0.184 on the federal excise tax
$0.10 cents on more state and local sales taxes
$0.02 for a state underground storage tank fee
Plus, $0.51 for state environmental programs fee for a total of $1.41 in taxes and fees per gallon of gas.
Source: CA Dept of Tax & Fee Assessment
But why does the state gas tax keep increasing each year? It’s due to the passage of a bill in 2017, not a vote of the people, as some folks misremember. According to the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC), State Senate Bill 1 (SB1) entitled the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017, “was passed by a two-thirds majority in the California Legislature and signed into law by Governor Jerry Brown in 2017. As the largest transportation investment in California history, SB 1 is expected to raise $52.4 billion for transportation investments statewide over the next decade.” It marked “the first increase in the state excise tax on gasoline since 1994.”
It requires the CDTFA to annually adjust the rate by the increase in the California Consumer Price Index (CPI) which is as calculated by the Department of Finance (CDFI). According to the CADFI, the CPI “measures price changes in goods and services purchased by urban consumers. The all urban consumer (CPI-U) represents the spending patterns of the majority of the population which includes professionals, the self-employed, the poor, the unemployed, and retired people, as well as urban wage earners and clerical workers (CPI-W). The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) compiles and publishes the CPI for the Los Angeles area monthly, the Riverside area bimonthly, San Diego County bimonthly, the San Francisco area bimonthly, and the nation each month. A California CPI is calculated…as a population-weighted average of the BLS-published local area CPIs. The California CPI formula was developed by the California Department of Industrial Relations (CADIR).”
According to the CDIR, the CPI “Is a measure of the average change over time in the prices paid by urban consumers for a fixed market basket of goods and services. The CPI provides a way to compare what this market basket of goods and services costs this month with what the same market basket cost, say, a month or year ago.” This year, the California CIP was determined to be 3.3% in February and 3.8% in April.
History of Recent CA Gas Tax Increases
In addition, according to details provided by the CDTFA, “*Effective July 1, 2010, under the Fuel Tax Swap Law, purchases and sales of gasoline are exempt from the state portion of the sales and use tax rate (then 6 percent), and a corresponding increase in the excise tax rate on that gasoline was imposed.” Then, “Effective November 1, 2017, Senate Bill 1 imposed an additional $0.12-per-gallon gasoline tax.” Finally, “Effective July 1, 2020, Senate Bill 1…requires CDTFA to annually adjust the rate by the increase in the California Consumer Price Index.”
Proposed Use of Funds
The majority of the revenue from the state gas tax is intended for “Local Street and Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation” at $1.5 billion per year over 10 years and $1.9 billion for “State Highway Maintenance and Rehabilitation.”
Also, according to the MTC, “In the Bay Area, most of this money will be directed to cities, counties and public transit agencies to tackle the enormous backlog of maintenance and repairs for local streets, roads and transit systems. SB 1 money also will be available for new projects, including bicycle and pedestrian improvements.”
Asked if the law sunsets and the annual increases end or if they continue indefinitely a staff member for CDTFA responded, “CDTFA is required by law to adjust the motor vehicle fuel and diesel fuel excise tax rates annually based on the California Consumer Price Index as calculated by the Department of Finance. SB1 did not include a sunset date.”
For additional information on SB1 see the answers by the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) to the Frequently Asked Questions, here and by the California State Controller’s Office, here.
