Discuss 10% annual water rate increases, set public hearing for March 11

“This is kind of a shock for people, 50% over five years” – District 3 Councilman Don Freitas.

Both councilwomen absent for first meeting of the year

By Allen D. Payton

During the first Antioch City Council meeting of the new year, on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, the new mayor and two members discussed and approved a variety of matters without the input or votes of both councilwomen who did not attend. Those included an agreement with former Interim Chief Brian Addington’s consulting firm for services to the police department and fees for concealed carry weapons. The council also heard a presentation on the process for recruiting a new, permanent police chief and another from the Parks and Recreation Department entitled, “What a Year It’s Been – Celebrating Our Year 2024.”

According to City Manager Bessie Scott, District 1 Councilwoman Tamisha Torres-Walker was sick and District 4 Councilwoman Monica Wilson was in Washington D.C. for a conference.

Approves Agreement with Addington’s Consulting Firm for Police Department

After just completing his time as Antioch’s interim police chief last Friday, Jan. 10, 2025, Brian Addington’s company, WBA Consulting was hired as the consultant to the police department to comply with the City’s recent agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice.

As previously reported, the council was asked to hire a “consultant team that can provide support, guidance, and advice in several areas, which will supplement and enhance the Antioch Police Department’s efficiency and effectiveness. The City requires assistance with overall project management for Police Department operations and administration, policy support, and special project implementation for not only day-to-day operations, but also with compliance efforts identified in the Department of Justice (“DOJ”) settlement agreement with the Antioch Police Department and City of Antioch dated January 2, 2025.” (See related article)

WBA Consulting was mentioned as part of his background in an introductory article about Addington when he was hired as interim police chief last February.

Other than one question from District 3 Councilman Don Freitas about the items in the agreement lined through that were eliminated from the final version, without discussion, the council approved the agreement 3-0, with Councilwomen Tamisha Torres-Walker and Monica Wilson absent.

Approves CCW Permit Fees

Under agenda item 6, according to Antioch Police Captain Desmond Bitner, who provided the City staff report to the council about setting fees for handling concealed carry weapons (CCW) permits, the majority of law enforcement agencies in California use software to expedite the process. As of January, under SB2 cities can increase fees. Permits have to be renewed every two years.

“These are basic numbers we’ve assessed and consulted other agencies,” Bittner We’re not making any money on this. We’re just breaking even to cover our costs.”

Only two members of the public spoke on the item, but neither chose to serve as the proponent or opponent for the public hearing which would have afforded them 10 minutes to speak.

“I was not aware what’s really going on,” said a woman who claimed to be a local leader for Gun Owners of America. “I get a little emotional when it comes to my right to carry. I grew up in this town. I left…then I came back. I feel incredibly unsafe in this town.”

“It’s cheaper for me to fly to Texas…to get the training,” she continued. “To hear the fees for me to exercise my constitutional right to carry…is appalling.”

“Police told me the applications are stacked so high, don’t even bother,” she added. “I just want actions, and I want answers. I shouldn’t have to wait a year-and-a-half.”

Resident Greg Farina who identified himself as the president of the Contra Costa Chapter of the California Rifle and Pistol Association said, “I’m very happy the City of Antioch is going through this. I just got my letter from Contra Costa County. It took me 15 months.”

“Yes, it’s expensive. I’m concerned about lower income folks. I will help you do anything and help sell what you’re doing,” he added.

Freitas asked Bittner, “do we actively have applications for the City of Antioch, now?”

“As far as I know, no,” the captain responded. “We averaged about five applications per year. The sheriff’s department processed for us on average 67 per year. We can get the knocked out in 90 days. If the applicant is being diligent in getting things done, we’ll be right there with them.”

“This will not impact the General Fund?” District 2 Councilman Louie Rocha asked. Mayor Ron Bernal responded, “No.”

“We respect the citizens right to carry,” Bittner added.

The council approved the item on a 3-0 vote.

Review Water Rates Study Including 10% per Year Increases & Set Public Hearing

Under Item 7 the council adopted a resolution to set a hearing for March 11th on water rate increases. City staff presented a Water Rates Study showing Antioch has the lowest single family monthly water bills of neighboring cities and a proposed increase of 10% per year on average. The City’s ratepayers get to provide their opinion to the council.

On Nov. 12, 2025, the previous council failed to approve the rate increases on a vote 2-1-1 with Councilwomen Lori Ogorchock and Monica Wilson voting yes, then-Mayor Lamar Hernandez-Thorpe voting no, Councilwoman Tamisha Torres-Walker voting to abstain and then-Councilman Mike Barbanica absent. (See Item 8 of the Meeting Minutes)

“If the council should accept these, is the funding sufficient to pay our bills on an annual basis?” Freitas asked.

“Yes,” Tom Pavletic of Pavletic Consulting responded.

The Water Use chart for Calendar Years 2023-29 shows a one percent increase in projected water use for Fiscal Year 2024 but a one percent decrease in FY2025-27 and a two percent decrease in FY2028 and 2029.
“I don’t understand for three consecutive years you’re showing a decrease,” Freitas stated.

“We put 100 new accounts per year in this model. But it’s a matter of conservation. In the past 15 years your single-family user class has reduced 15%,” the consultant responded. “Your rates are going to go up about 10% per year. That’s going to result in conservation.”

“You’ve gone from 375 gallons per year to 250 gallons,” he added.

Bernal stated, “you’re using 100 units per year. That seems a little bit low…for projections.”

“We looked at past models and past growth and that’s what comes in,” Pavletic responded. “When I do water rate studies, I never use the General Plan.”

Freitas asked, “What we’re asking is for an increase of about 10% a year?”

“Yes,” Pavletic responded.

Freitas pressed staff on the debt service for the water department on the 2019 Construction Installment Sale Agreement with the State Water Resources Control Board for the Brackish Water Desalination Plant.
“Antioch is one of the few cities with its own water plant…and we have this new state of the art facility coming online,” Finance Director Dawn Merchant stated.

“For debt service, if we fall below, it’s going to be with us for a long, long time,” Freitas stated. “This is a very dangerous thing to get to for infrastructure financing. Why did we not have rate increases for five years? I don’t get it.”

“There was a number of reasons. Initially and honestly, the water system has enough funds to continue,” said Acting Public Works Director Scott Buenting. “The same time as COVID was going on and giving the residents a break for two, two-year terms.”

“This is kind of a shock for people, 50% over five years,” Freitas stated. “I think we should do things incrementally…when we review the budget.”

“Are we taking into account the entire cost of the (brackish water) project?” Bernal asked. “Yes, Buenting responded.

Asked about the City purchasing less water from the Contra Costa Water District, Buenting responded, “That should be less.”

“Since we’re so close on our ratios we don’t want to have any surprises,” Bernal stated.

“When the water becomes brackish the desalination plant will be operational,” Buenting stated.

“This year?” Freitas asked.

“Yes. This year,” Buenting responded.

“I feel like we have no choice. The consumer cannot deal with these increases,” Freitas stated and made a motion to approve with Rocha later seconding the motion.

Public Comments on Water Rate Increases

“As a consumer, I don’t like it,” said resident Melissa Case. “But Don, you’re a blessing to this conversation. Now, I know where your strengths are. It looks like we have to find to pay our water bills.”

Former Councilwoman Ogorchock spoke next saying, “The council did not approve it. It was one abstention, two yesses and one no. That was the mayor. It wasn’t cost effective for our seniors, and I look out for our seniors.”

She asked about the effect of not voting for it and the possible move of $2 million into the enterprise fund.

Resident and local business owner Jim Lanter said the council had the responsibility for, “public safety, budget. We’ve got to make ourselves fiscally smart. I appreciate the questions, the tough questions. But nobody can afford 10%. I wish we had two-and-a-half percent a year.”

“Those little changes do matter. I would encourage the City to bring forward these rate hikes…and explore rate subsidies. We just have to fill that gap. There are plenty of opportunities out there,” Freitas stated.

“If there is any alternative flexibility for our seniors on fixed incomes,” Rocha mentioned. “This got kicked down the road. So, now we have to address what didn’t get done. But if we can look at our seniors and those who face the biggest struggle.”

“It gets to be a complicated legal issue if you use the enterprise fund to provide subsidies as it is a tax on other ratepayers,” Freitas mentioned.

“I do appreciate your expertise from your experience in the water industry,” Rochas said to Freitas who served on the CCWD Board for 16 years. “We probably should have taken action in 2023. But it is what it is and we have to address it.”

“I just want to make sure General Fund money has not been used to prop up the water fund,” Bernal asked.

“No,” Buenting responded.

“I think that 1.2% needs to be mentioned up front. For the public to understand,” Freitas added.

“I’d like to see something in the staff report to reflect what happens if we don’t pass this,” Bernal said to City Manager Bessie Scott.

The council then approved the process 3-0 which will include Hearing Notices being mailed out to account holders who get to provide input on the proposed rate changes. If written protests against the proposed rate changes are presented by a majority of the parcels or accounts, the city council will not enact the proposed changes. If a majority don’t protest, the council will then vote on a resolution to adjust rates and charges.

If approved, the new FY25 rates will begin May 1st and on Jan. 1, 2026, the new rates for FY 26 will be implemented. Then on July 1st of the following three fiscal years the rates for those years will be implemented.

Meeting Extended for Up to an Hour

The council then voted 3-0 to extend the meeting until midnight, one hour past the normal ending time of 11:00 p.m.

Discusses Annual Financial Reports

Under Item 9 the council considered the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2024, inclusive of the City of Antioch Single Audit Reports for the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2024.

“We were deficit spending for the past several fiscal years. We broke even this year. Do we have reserves or are they decreasing? Are we in a financial bind?” Freitas asked.

“As of today, we are not in a financial bind,” Merchant responded.

“We are putting together the 2025-27 budget. I think we will still have that deficit. We are still pulling together the numbers. We will be drawing down on our reserves. The budget stabilization fund which are using the fill the gap should only be used one time,” she continued.

“The ARPA money from the pandemic that ends in April, right?” Freitas asked.

“They had to be obligated by the end of December. But we have until 2026 to spend them. There are some programs that end, like Opportunity Village, that contract ends in April,” Merchant responded referring to the homeless motel on East 18th Street. “We have to look and see how much was allocated to that to continue. Once the money is spent from ARPA it’s gone.”

Freitas asked about claims during the campaign of a $90 billion reserve fund.

“That money is there but you can see $46.4 million of the Budget Stabilization Fund is committed. You really need to look at the $36.5 million,” Merchant stated.

“That’s the really true reserve,” Freitas stated. “Not the $90 million.”

“It’s really supposed to be for one-time projects,” Merchant stated.

“As we go into the budget we have transparency,” Freitas requested of Bernal. “These are real impacts to real people. I’d like the opportunity to educate the staff…the public. If there isn’t any money those projects are in jeopardy.”

“I think lumping the two funds together is misleading,” Rocha stated. “When you look at the ARPA funds which is about 20% of our budget…that’s a significant amount. We’re going to have to look to work with the County. We have a responsibility to be fiscally solvent and spending down our reserves is not the way.

If we can continue the services to our unhoused community maybe we can take housing off the table.”
“Hearing some of the things, tonight, unless we come together and have partnerships in the region, there are going to have to be some serious cuts,” the District 2 councilman continued. “I know that’s not popular. But I didn’t sign up to be popular. We’re going to have to look at grant writing.
Bernal then mentioned amounts of the net pension liability and asked, “Can you explain what the net pension liability is?”

“Is what CalPERS calculates the ultimate liability we have to pay current employees until their descendants are no longer alive,” Merchant responded. They’re calculated on mortality rates.”

“Other post-employment benefits you provide medical…for those employees under that plan…they’re estimated we have to pay until those employees are deceased,” she added.

“Can we break out that amount…on an annualized cost?” Bernal asked. “Yes,” Merchant responded.

The council then voted 3-0 to receive and file the report.

Item 11, the proposed emergency City staffing positions, was tabled until the next council meeting.

Following comments by the city manager offering “kudos” to a variety of City staff members and committee reports by the councilmembers the meeting adjourned at 11:27 p.m.

Also, postpones Amtrak Station improvements, Grand Jury report noncompliance letter response

By Allen D. Payton

During their meeting on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, the Antioch City Council could not get three votes to approve water rates for the coming year. With District 2 Councilman Mike Barbanica absent due to a family medical emergency, the remaining four members split 2-1-1 on the motion to increase rates and continue the current tiered rate structure. The structure means those residential customers who use more water pay a higher per gallon rate, effectively subsidizing the rates for those who use less water each month. Following the vote, during one of his final meetings on the council, Mayor Lamar Hernandez-Thorpe acted like Pontius Pilate and washed his hands of it saying, “If the new council wants to take this up, they can take it up.”

In addition, the council postponed both the discussion on the Amtrak Station improvements as well as responding to the Grand Jury report noncompliance letter.

During public comments on the item #8 on the agenda, in which the council considered accepting the Water Utility Cash Flow Evaluation and Rates Study from Pavletic Consulting LLC dated August 2024, approving the Water Rate Schedule effective January 1, 2025, and amending the Master Fee Schedule to include the updated water rates, the few residents who spoke opposed the proposed rate increases, as well as the current tiered rate structure. If adopted, every rate across the board would increase each year through 2029.

“I hope you’ll hear me. I hope you’ll do something. Please, help,” said a woman who is a retiree living in a condo on a pension.

“We have a free water supply. We get to draw off the San Joaquin River. No one charges us for that. But then it goes through your meters,” a man said. “In the past few months I’ve seen an excessive amount. To have anything more…where it keeps going up 35, 50 cents a year. I’m a retired individual…for about 12 or 15 years. So, I don’t see my wages going up. It ain’t cutting it for us. Why should we have to sit there and put ourselves out to the point that we’re going to have to be giving up our vehicles…and other parts of our life because you’re putting us out.”

District 3 Councilwoman Lori Ogorchock asked for an explanation of tiers and the pre-1914 water rights. Based on the questions people asked earlier. People think we’re pulling water out of the river. Can you just explain why it happens that way?”

Acting Public Works Director Scott Buenting said, “Antioch has pre-1914 rights to the river…among the best in the state. But there are other things like permits and agencies that restrict how much water you can get at one time. However, there is electricity to pump it out of the river, there are facilities…chemicals and staff. There is plenty of costs to get it treated and to the tap.

“Rates are based on costs for service. We don’t make money off of it. The formula that goes into this proposal is for the cost of service,” Hernandez-Thorpe explained.

“I believe it was in 2015…that the council wanted a tiered rate,” said the consultant. “There’s virtually no city enterprise or special district, you cannot find an entity without tiered rates anymore. Except for Fresno. They’re the largest city with a uniform rate.”

“You’re the lowest by far. The only people in the state, there might be a handful in the Central Valley pumping the groundwater. That’s being taken away from them,” he continued. “The budget dictates the rate study.”

“What would happen if we just went to one tier?” Ogorchock asked.

“Revenue neutral. What happens is the rate goes up for lower-end users, from say, zero to 11 units. Everyone above that, their bills would go down,” the consultant explained. “That’s the general shift you would see. The folks at the low end, especially senior citizens…a uniform rate their bill would go up. The uniform rate is higher than the Tier 1 rate.”

“I didn’t know we had senior rates,” Ogorchock stated.

“I’m not aware there are senior rates. The City isn’t subsidizing rates,” Buenting stated.

Asked by Ogorchock about fluoride in the water and “if it’s dangerous,” Buenting responded, “I can look into that.”

“I don’t like tiered rates but I don’t want the uniform rate, either,” the councilwoman stated. She then made a motion to approve the pr

“If we did a flat rate, unfortunately, it’s going to negatively impact you,” Wilson said. I’m going to definitely second this.”

District 1 Councilwoman Tamisha Torres-Walker said, “We could keep explaining…but it won’t keep people’s pockets from hurting.”

“The challenge with Antioch is…why they stay so low is because there are a lot of poor working people and seniors.

“I was not for this the last time so, I will not be for this tonight,” the mayor said.

The motion failed on a 2-1-1 vote.

“It does not pass,” City Clerk Ellie Householder stated. “With two yes and one abstention by Councilwoman Torres-Walker, one no by the mayor and Councilman Barbanica absent.”

“If the new council wants to take this up, they can take it up,” Hernandez-Thorpe stated. “As I said, I was against this from the start.”

Estimates according to a new USGS predictive model. Exposure to some PFAS may lead to adverse health risks.

Antioch has some of the highest levels

Approximately 71 to 95 million people in the Lower 48 states – more than 20% of the country’s population – may rely on groundwater that contains detectable concentrations of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, also known as PFAS, for their drinking water supplies. These findings are according to a U.S Geological Survey study published Oct. 24. The predictive model results can help members of the public, water suppliers and regulators understand the potential for PFAS contamination, guide future studies and inform strategic planning for water resources.

USGS scientists are the first to report national estimates of PFAS occurrence in untreated groundwater that supplies water to public and private wells. This research also provides the first estimate of the number of people across the country who are potentially affected by PFAS-contaminated groundwater.

Along with a scientific report, the USGS published an interactive, online map so users can see probability estimates of PFAS occurrence. Note that predictive results are intended to be evaluated at state, regional and national scales rather than at individual household levels. Probability estimates are for the presence of PFAS in groundwater and do not account for any subsequent actions taken by states, municipalities or individuals to treat drinking water. The model does not include estimates of PFAS concentrations; testing is the only way to confirm the presence of contaminants.

Exposure to certain PFAS may lead to adverse health risks in people, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. PFAS are a group of synthetic chemicals used in a wide variety of common applications, from the linings of fast-food boxes and non-stick cookware to fire-fighting foams and other purposes. PFAS are commonly called “forever chemicals” because many of them do not easily break down and can build up over time, making them a concern for drinking water quality.

“This study’s findings indicate widespread PFAS contamination in groundwater that is used for public and private drinking water supplies in the U.S.,” said Andrea Tokranov, USGS research hydrologist and lead author of this study. “This new predictive model can help prioritize areas for future sampling to help ensure people aren’t unknowingly drinking contaminated water. This is especially important for private well users, who may not have information on water quality in their region and may not have the same access to testing and treatment that public water suppliers do.”

The EPA has established legally enforceable levels, called maximum contaminant levels, for six types of PFAS in drinking water. The EPA regulates public water supplies, and some states have additional regulations for drinking water. Some homes use private water supplies, where residents are responsible for the maintenance, testing and treatment of their drinking water. Those interested in treatment processes and testing options can read EPA’s guidance or contact their state officials or water supplier.

The states with the largest populations relying on public water supplies with potentially contaminated groundwater sources are Florida and California. Regarding private wells, Michigan, Florida, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, New York and Ohio have the largest populations relying on potentially contaminated groundwater.

The study also presents data according to population percentage. In Massachusetts, for example, the source water for 86 to 98% of people who rely on groundwater from public water supplies could be contaminated with PFAS. In Connecticut, the source water for 67 to 87% of the people who rely on groundwater from private wells could be affected. Details by state can be seen in the report’s tables S6 through S8.

“To derive these estimates, the team analyzed 1,238 groundwater samples collected by USGS scientists and determined how factors such as urban development and well depth can impact PFAS occurrence,” continued Tokranov. “With that information, a detailed machine learning model was developed and used to identify which geographic areas have a higher likelihood for contamination. That information was combined with existing USGS research on the number of people in a given area who rely on groundwater for drinking water to establish population estimates.”

Scientists present separate estimates for public and private wells because they typically receive water from different groundwater depths. Public wells using groundwater as the primary water source are usually deeper than private wells.

There are more than 12,000 types of PFAS, not all of which can be detected with current tests; the USGS study tested for the presence of 24 common types. The USGS estimates consider the presence of at least one of those 24 types of PFAS. The most frequently detected compounds were perfluorobutane sulfonate known as PFBS, perfluorooctane sulfonate known as PFOS and perfluorooctanoate known as PFOA.
This research provides a broad outlook for the Lower 48 states and presents state-level estimates. Scientists did not look in detail at specific cities or provide estimates for the types of PFAS present or PFAS concentrations.

The new USGS study was published in Science.

Learn more about USGS research on PFAS by reading the USGS strategy for the study of PFAS in the environment and visiting the USGS PFAS Integrated Science Team’s website.

For more information about PFAS regulations, visit the EPA’s website on addressing PFAS.

Will bring back for future votes: more street cameras, ordinance requiring native plant species for new developments, city owned property and resolution opposing Amtrak Station closure.

Ogorchock, Hernandez-Thorpe agree City needs to maintain historic murals

By Allen D. Payton

During their meeting last Tuesday night, June 25, 2024, the Antioch City Council adopted the 5-Year Capital Improvement Program (CIP) for 2024-29 which includes $176.85 million for projects in multiple categories including roads, parks and trails, water, sewer system and city-owned buildings. They also agreed to move forward, for future council votes, additional street cameras and an ordinance requiring plants included in new developments and on city-owned property be at least 70% native species.

Finally, the council agreed to return with a resolution opposing the closure of the Antioch Amtrak station and sending a letter to the San Joaquins Joint Powers Authority which governs the service in and through the city. Plus, the mayor and District 3 Councilwoman Lori Ogorchock agreed the City must maintain the historic murals it owns. District 1 Councilwoman Tamisha Torres-Walker was absent for the meeting.

Council Approves 5-Year CIP Budget

The council heard from Acting Public Works Director Scott Buenting about the 5-Year Capital Improvement Program for 2024-29 with a budget covering $176.85 million for a variety of projects in various main categories. The CIP also shows $7.7 million in projects completed during the 2023-24 Fiscal Year which runs from July 1st to June 30th. The CIP also provides the list of $171.1 million of projects currently in progress of which $116.1 million is for the Brackish Water Desalination Plant. A total of $2.19 million for Community Facilities improvement projects was added to the list which includes $1 million for the police department’s Dispatch Communications Center Improvements and $550,000 for Antioch Water Park improvements.

The category to receive the greatest level of funding was $52.9 million for Roadway Improvements followed by $45.8 million for the City’s Water System, not including the desal plant for which $22.95 million was allocated. Community Facilities (City-owned buildings) were allocated $21.8 million followed by $18.85 million for Parks & Trails. The Wastewater & Storm Drain System will receive $10.25 million, and Traffic Signals were allocated $4.3 million.

$20.629 Million for L Street Improvements

Under the Roadway Improvements category, the greatest amount of funding received by a project, $20,629,000, is for the L Street Improvements from Hwy 4 to the marina which includes widening from Sycamore Drive to W. 10th Street. With planned completion in 2028, the project will provide four lanes of traffic, as well as curbs, gutters and sidewalks on both sides of the street, and landscaping.

CIP Budget Sources of Funds

Sources of funding for the projects include $60 million from sewer and water Enterprise Fund and $41.2 million from Special Revenue Funds including Measure J, the county’s half-cent sales tax for transportation, state gas tax and federal ARPA funds approved during COVID. An additional $27.8 million is from Grant Funds, including federal and state program sources, $16.9 million from the State Revolving Loan program, almost $10 million from the City’s General Fund and $2.4 million from Capital Improvement Funds. Over 10 percent of the CIP budget, a total of about $18.6 million, is currently unfunded.

See complete 5-Year CIP for 2024-29

Council Moves Forward Two Proposed Items for Future Votes

The council also discussed matters proposed by two council members. With Torres-Walker absent, her proposed items were held over to the council meeting in late July including creating a new Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Officer position and a Health and Safety Analyst position for the Human Resources Department.

“I would like to put this back on the agenda when she can speak on it in late July,” Mayor Lamar Hernandez-Thorpe stated. The others agreed.

Street Cameras

“It’s very important to have these cameras back in our community….capture vital information,” said Ogorchock about her proposed agenda item. “Currently we have 130 cameras. If we had another 130 that would cover all intersections coming in and going out of the city.”

“The cost would be $250 per camera to maintain,” she continued. “They will be huge in capturing drivers and spectators of sideshows.”

“Is there consensus to bring back the cameras for discussion?” the mayor asked.

“I support cameras coming back and the discussion,” Barbanica said.

“OK. That will be coming back,” Hernandez-Thorpe stated.

Taxpayer Protection Act Opposed, But No Vote As It Was Removed from Nov. Ballot

Ogorchock, who asked for this item to be on the agenda for discussion and a vote by the council to oppose it, said, “I have really good news about this. The California Supreme Court ruled the Taxpayer ‘Deception’ Act would be removed from the November ballot.”

However, the measure was actually entitled the Taxpayer Protection and Government Accountability Act and if passed would have required all new local taxes to be enacted via a two-thirds vote of the electorate. (See related article)

Ralph Hernandez said, “Unfortunately, you don’t have really any information there in the packet. At this time without a lot of the information…if you’re looking at tax increases, I’m against it. I think the public already suffered enough in this economy.”

“This was a ballot measure sponsored by the California Business Roundtable that would impact cities like us negatively,” the mayor explained. “The Supreme Court decided it can’t even be on the ballot.”

Policy on Use of Native Plant Species in New Developments

Ogorchock also asked for this item to be on the agenda for discussion. One speaker asked that the policy, “include private developments and city land and parks. There are a variety of nurseries that offer native plants. Native plants can be acquired at reasonable costs.”

“Direct staff that when native plants – more than 70% be native plants,” she continued. “Without that, birds in general can’t reproduce. They need lots and lots of caterpillars. Keystone species provide the habitat for caterpillars.”

Another speaker, Alexander Broom, said, “A mandate or an ordinance would be a huge step in the right direction for new developments and city property. There’s just so many benefits.”

Ogorchock said, “I do believe we need to start looking at adding this to the General Plan. This is something we can do within our city, not only with new developments but with City property. I’m for having a 70% policy of native species.

I definitely concur,” District 4 Councilwoman Monica Wilson said. “Invasive species of plants have been planted and wreaked havoc on our environment. I think this is a plus for our city to do. It can play a part in our Climate Action Plan.”

“I’m definitely in favor of it coming back, at least 70%,” Barbanica stated.

Asked if the requirement on new development can be done with developers, Acting Community Development Director Kevin Scudero said, “I can’t find a city in the state that has one.”

“I think it’s not that difficult to do it we just need to do it,” Ogorchock added.

“That will come back,” the mayor said in conclusion.

Agree to Bring Back Resolution Opposing Amtrak Station Closure

Before the council discussed the Antioch Amtrak Station closure Ogorchock, who had requested the item to be on the agenda, suggested Hernandez-Thorpe public comments on the matter first, which he did.

One resident, Tashena Garret said, “We are still fighting to save our train. We, again, are not giving up.”

Another resident, who the mayor referred to as Mr. Gums, said, “I’m in support of the Amtrak train station staying. I would like all the council members to show their support for the Amtrak station staying.” He wanted the council to issue a press release stating that.

“I did meet with ACCE and a couple other individuals regarding the Amtrak station,” Ogorchock stated. “And in order for them to have a really good conversation with Senator Glazer, Assemblyman Grayson, Supervisors Federal (Glover) and maybe Burgis, we would like to have a resolution regarding the need, why we need that station and how important it is to our community.”

“So, I think that when they have the resolution in hand and they go and meet with these elected officials then they have something from the City stating why it’s so important,” she reiterated.

“What we’re asking for is a resolution to come back saying we never agreed to this,” Hernandez-Thorpe stated.

“I don’t know if it needs to say, that we didn’t agree to it,” Ogorchock responded. “Basically, it needs to say who it impacts, how many people, ridership, people go to work, basically…actually I started a resolution.”

“You guys had a draft,” the mayor said to City staff members.

“Well, the attorney said you would give me one,” Ogorchock stated.

“Do you want it to come back late July?” Hernandez-Thorpe asked, referring to the next council meeting (as they won’t hold one the second Tuesday in July). “We could call a special meeting.”

He then mentioned that the July 19th Board of Directors meeting of the San Joaquins Joint Powers Authority, which oversees and operates the Amtrak line in and through Antioch, had been cancelled. The next meeting is scheduled for Sept. 20th in Martinez, according to the organization’s website.

“Oh, but you want it for your advocacy efforts,” the mayor said to staff.

The council members then agreed to bring back a resolution for a vote opposing the closure of the Antioch Amtrak Station at their meeting on July 23rd.

“But I think it’s important that we include language we were never asked to weigh in, we were never asked our opinion,” Hernandez-Thorpe said, “Whoever made the decision, according to the San Joaquins, and you’ve all seen the video – I sent it to you – that this was the city manager, former city manager Ron Bernal who made this decision. He never told us about it. He never asked us to make a decision or weigh in. For the city manager to singularly make that decision on his own, I just think it was inappropriate and it needs to be noted.”

“So, everybody agree to that?” the mayor asked. “OK. So, consensus, there.

Ogorchock, Hernandez-Thorpe Agree City Must Maintain Historic Murals

During Council Communications and future agenda items, Ogorchock spoke about the murals in the city following the removal of the historic, council-commissioned mural on W. 4th Street this past week. (See related articles here and here)

“The mural on 2nd Street, we do have an easement on that property, next to the Nick Rodriguez building,” she stated. “It does need some repairs. I don’t want to go through the same issues. We need to make sure because we have an agreement, that is a written agreement, that we would maintain these. So, we need to go back and do what we need to do on that mural because there’s parts of it…that is weathered.”

“Then we need to make sure, we have the one at the Marina,” Ogorchock continued. “So, we need to make sure that all the murals are being maintained and repaired along with the (utility) boxes that we have.”

“The ones we own, I think the issue is with the easements on a few of them,” said Hernandez-Thorpe. “If we could take that back and I had an understanding…it’s really hard. And we do have all that money we set aside for murals, and we need to use some of that for the ones we’ve said, historically that we’re going to maintain.”

“On that, we do need to make sure that the mural money that we put aside was for a new mural,” Ogorchock pointed out. “That Mayor Pro Tem Wilson has asked for, too.”

With no further discussion on the matter, the council then voted to adjourn the meeting.

By Brandon Lawson

As Antioch searches for ways to rejuvenate its economy and community, it’s crucial to remember our rich heritage of leveraging local resources for growth and prosperity. Historically, from the coal mines to the steel mills, our city thrived by tapping into what was readily available. Today, we face a similar opportunity, not by following the trend of tech industry acquisitions, but by returning to our roots and using our natural assets—specifically, the abundant water of the Delta.

Creating hydroelectric power plants along the Delta can be Antioch’s modern-day coal mine. This initiative will not only provide sustainable energy but also generate a surge in job opportunities, echoing the industrial boom of our past. It’s a chance to align with global movements toward renewable resources while addressing local employment and energy needs.

Such a project would do more than just power our homes; it could stimulate local businesses, attract investments, and provide the city with a stable economic foundation. Furthermore, hydroelectric power is clean, reducing our environmental footprint and offering our community a leadership role in the sustainable practices that are increasingly valued worldwide.

We must also consider the broader implications of this shift. By focusing on sustainable energy, Antioch can set an example for cities across the nation that economic growth and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand. This is not just about energy; it’s about cultivating a resilient community ready to face the challenges of the future with innovative solutions derived from our historical identity.

As we ponder Antioch’s path forward, let’s choose to harness the natural strength of the Delta. This approach not only respects our past but also paves the way for a future where Antioch stands as a beacon of sustainable innovation and economic independence.

Lawson is an educator and sci-fi author from Antioch who writes under the pen name Will Scifi.

The Antioch Water Park presents Water Park After Dark each Friday night in July.

First, enjoy Carnival Night on July 5th, followed by Christmas in July on July 12th. Then enjoy Country Night on July 19th and finally All Star Night on July 26th.

Pre-Sale tickets are $11 per person and $13 at the door or purchase an After Dark Pass for all four nights for just $35 per person at AntiochWaterPark.com.

The Antioch Water Park is located inside Prewett Family Park at 4701 Lone Tree Way.

“A Vision for Water-Based Transportation and Emergency Response on the San Francisco Bay”

By Allen D. Payton

The Bay Area’s Water Emergency Transportation Authority (WETA) board adopted the 2050 Service Vision and Expansion Policy during its meeting on Thursday, May 9 and the plan includes a future, possible station for Antioch, as well as one each in Pittsburg, Martinez and Hercules. Also included is an additional route for the existing terminal in Richmond, which currently offers WETA’s only ferry service in Contra Costa County.

The plan includes two tiers, with the four additional Contra Costa terminals in Tier 2 which will be added based on demand and current, technological barriers to service. The Vision includes one route between the San Francisco Ferry Building to the Hercules terminal and a separate route to and from the Antioch, Pittsburg and Martinez terminals.

The Vision explains that first, “WETA will enhance existing route frequency to continue growing markets for all-day service.” Then, “WETA will expand by implementing the Tier 1 projects from the map including regional priority projects such as those included in regional plans – including Mission Bay and Treasure Island to the San Francisco Ferry Building, Berkeley to San Francisco, and Oakland to Redwood City.”

That will be followed by WETA exploring “development of Tier 2 projects from the map to further expand the reach of the ferry system as market demand matures and technologies evolve to overcome current barriers to operating service.”

In the plan, “WETA will provide at minimum three types of service on the ferry network: Local service consisting of short distance trips connecting dense urban hubs; Regional service consisting of medium and long-distance trips connecting activity centers; and Special Event service to major venues with existing terminals.”

In addition, “WETA will electrify the ferry system to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”

According to their website, “Water transit is a vital part of life in the San Francisco Bay Area. WETA has been developing a shared vision of the San Francisco Bay Area ferry system in 2050, including the level of service and extent of WETA ferry operations and emergency response.

This ‘Service Vision’ informs how WETA operates in the future and what changes will need to be made to get there. The vision will serve as the foundation of WETA’s Business Plan, which will present the specific strategies and actions required to achieve the 2050 Service Vision. Strategies and goals are divided across six Focus Areas.

This service visioning effort is a unique opportunity to re-imagine water transit and address emerging priorities concerning the environment, equity, economic development, emergency response and quality of life throughout the Bay Area.”

According to the staff report for the agenda item #11, the plan was “developed to define a long-term service vision based on input from agency stakeholders, the public, and other parties with an interest in the future of the agency. The goal of this project is to create clear direction for the agency and its staff concerning future expansion efforts, prioritize the use of limited funds, identify resource needs, and help build a broad coalition to advocate for future investment in the regional ferry network. The WETA Board received a presentation on a draft Policy at its last meeting in April 2024. Following that meeting, staff incorporated comments from Directors into the final 2050 Service Vision and Expansion Policy—including more detailed information about emergency response and first/last mile connections.

During an initial stakeholder and public outreach effort in 2021, staff identified six focus areas

for consideration in the Business Plan. These include:

1. Regional Ferry Network

2. Emergency Response

3. Environmental Stewardship

4. Community Connections

5. Organizational Capacity

6. Financial Capacity

At Business Plan Workshop #1 held in August 2022, the Board identified a set of network expansion concepts for consideration in defining a 2050 Service Vision. Staff undertook a technical evaluation of these concepts and conducted broad stakeholder and public engagement to create a proposal to develop a draft 2050 Service Vision that was presented to the Board during Workshop #2 in April 2023.

Upon receiving direction from the Board to look more broadly at opportunities to expand the ferry network, staff worked with its consultant team to incorporate this feedback into an updated draft 2050 Service Vision and set of feasibility criteria for future expansion projects.

The draft service vision and feasibility criteria were refined upon review with key project stakeholders, the Community and Business Advisory Groups, and the WETA Business Plan Subcommittee. A consistent source of feedback during the outreach process was support for a WETA pilot program to test the feasibility of new technologies and emerging markets. The product of this process is the final 2050 Service Vision and Expansion Policy.”

The Vision also includes Terminal Rehabilitation & Replacement, improvements to Terminal Access, encouraging Transit-Supportive Land Uses in close proximity to eachcandidate ferry terminal, and Emergency Response. “WETA serves as the coordinator of water-based emergency response activities in the Bay Area in the event of a major disaster or disruptive event. In this capacity, WETA will work closely with the California Office of Emergency Services and/or the United States Coast Guard and will be directed to perform activities coordinated on a regional and state-wide basis. These include deploying WETA’s fleet resources to evacuate dangerous areas, to move first responders, and to deliver needed supplies. WETA will coordinate with other regional maritime partners to add to this fleet response, and terminal facilities must have sufficient capacity and facilities to accommodate these partner vessels. All new expansion terminals must be designed and built to Essential Facilities Standards. Emergency service to individual terminals will be guided based on state and regional direction.”

In addition to Thursday’s meeting, WETA held a public Board of Directors workshop on the 2050 Service Vision in April. The service vision evaluation memo and presentation slides are available, here:

• Service Vision Evaluation Memo
• Presentation

Here’s the public survey summary report, first published in May 2023.

To learn more about the project, visit Bay Ferry 2050 microsite where you can subscribe to updates, share your feedback and more.

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To public agencies prior to certification per CEQA requirements

By California Department of Water Resources

The California Department of Water Resources (DWR) is today releasing the Final Environmental Impact Report to public agencies that commented on the Draft EIR, per the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).* Proposed responses to comments, as well as the Final EIR and accompanying informational resources, can be accessed at www.deltaconveyanceproject.com. This action signifies the last step DWR is required to take under CEQA prior to deciding whether to certify the EIR and approve the proposed project.

The Final EIR was prepared by DWR as the lead agency to comply with the requirements of CEQA. The Final EIR is presented in two volumes: 1) the contents of the entire Draft EIR, as revised, and 2) all comments received on the Draft EIR and responses to substantive comments. 

At the conclusion of the CEQA process, DWR will determine if the Final EIR has been completed in compliance with CEQA and whether to certify that the Final EIR reflects DWR’s independent judgment and analysis. Following certification of the Final EIR, DWR would then determine whether to approve the proposed project, an alternative or no project. Learn more about the CEQA process here.

The proposed project identified in the Final EIR would modernize the state’s water infrastructure in the Delta to help protect the reliability of this important water supply for 27 million Californians and 750,000 acres of farmland from earthquakes and climate-driven weather extremes. 

Accessing the Final EIR

The Final EIR is available online at www.deltaconveyanceproject.com/planning-processes/california-environmental-quality-act/final-eir/final-eir-document.

Informational Materials and Resources

• Final EIR Overview Fact Sheet 

Project Planning Next Steps

• Community Benefits Program: Should DWR certify the Final EIR and approve the proposed project, DWR plans to release the Community Benefits Program Implementation Plan and Guidelines Discussion Document next year for review. There will be associated public engagement opportunities announced when that document is released. 
• Additional Permitting: DWR continues to pursue additional required federal and state planning processes, including but not limited to federal and state Endangered Species Act compliance, adding points of diversion to existing water rights and Delta Plan consistency. Information and updates related to these processes can be found on the project’s permit portal website. 
  *DWR is releasing the Final EIR to public agencies prior to certification per CEQA requirements. While CEQA does not require—and DWR is not providing—a public comment period on a Final EIR, it does require DWR to send its proposed responses at least 10 days prior to a decision on certification of the EIR.

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