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March 4, 2026 ·7:00 PM Final

Carnegie Forum 305 West Pine Street, Lodi

Agenda PDF Official record ↗

Agenda — 82 items

  1. C-1 Call to Order / Roll Call
  2. C-2 Announcement of Closed Session
  3. 2 The City Council Closed Session meeting of March 4, 2026, was called to order by Mayor Yepez at 5:07 p.m. Present: Council Member Bregman, Council Member Craig-Hensley, Council Member Nakanishi, and Mayor Yepez Absent: Mayor Pro Tempore Hothi Also Present: Interim City Manager Busch, Interim City Attorney Luebberke, and City Clerk Nashed NOTE: Mayor Pro Tempore Hothi arrived at 5:22 p.m.
  4. a) PUBLIC EMPLOYMENT – Regarding One Position – Conference with Greg Nelson, of Mosiac Public Partners, Regarding Recruitment of City Manager Pursuant to Government Code §54957.
  5. b) PUBLIC EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE EVALUATION: One Appointed Position. Pursuant to Government Code § 54957(b). Initial Review of Interim City Manager.
  6. C-3 Adjourn to Closed Session
  7. 6 6:55 p.m. Invocation/Call to Civic Responsibility.
  8. 7 NOTE: THE FOLLOWING ITEMS WILL COMMENCE NO SOONER THAN 7:00 P.M.
  9. 7 At 5:08 p.m., Mayor Yepez adjourned the meeting to a Closed Session to discuss the above matters. The Closed Session adjourned at 7:16 p.m.
  10. C-4 Return to Open Session / Disclosure of Action
  11. A. Call to Order / Roll Call
  12. 9 At 7:16 p.m., Mayor Yepez reconvened the City Council meeting, and City Attorney Lucchesi disclosed that there was no reportable action.
  13. B. Presentations
  14. B.1 Presentation of Proclamation Recognizing Outgoing NCPA General Manager, Randy Howard (CLK) 26-127
  15. 11 The Regular City Council meeting of March 4, 2026, was called to order by Mayor Yepez at 7:20 p.m. Present: Council Member Bregman, Council Member Craig-Hensley, Council Member Nakanishi, Mayor Pro Tempore Hothi, and Mayor Yepez Absent: None Also Present: Interim City Manager Busch, Interim City Attorney Luebberke, and City Clerk Nashed
  16. C. Consent Calendar (Reading; Comments by the Public; Council Action)
  17. C.1 Receive and File the Treasurer’s Report and Register of Claims for the Month of January 2026 (IS - FIN) 26-103
  18. C.2 Accept the Quarterly Investment Report for the Quarter Ending December 31, 2025 (IS - FIN) 26-102
  19. 14 Mayor Yepez presented a proclamation in recognition of outgoing Northern California Power Agency (NCPA) General Manager, Randy Howard. Mayor Pro Tempore Hothi, Lodi City Council Representative to the NCPA, and Electric Utility Director Jeff Berkheimer spoke regarding Mr. Howard's service.
  20. C.3 Adopt a Resolution Authorizing the Interim City Manager to Execute the Write-off of Uncollectible Utility Billing Bad Debts for the Years 2017 Through 2021, Approve the Total Write-off Amount of $1,573,855.04, and Approve Appropriations of $1,292,718 (IS-FIN) 26-106
  21. C.4 Adopt a Resolution Authorizing City Manager to Accept a Donation from the Carnegie Corporation of New York in the Amount of $10,000 for the Lodi Public Library and Appropriate Funds (LIB) 26-100
  22. 16 Council Member Craig-Hensley made a motion, second by Council Member Nakanishi, to approve the following items hereinafter set forth, in accordance with the report and recommendation of the City Manager. VOTE: The above motion carried by the following vote: Ayes: Council Member Bregman, Council Member Craig-Hensley, Council Member Nakanishi, Mayor Pro Tempore Hothi, and Mayor Yepez Noes: None Absent: None
  23. C.5 Adopt a Resolution Authorizing City Manager to Accept a Donation from the Constance E. Reynolds Trust in the Amount of $25,000 for the Lodi Public Library and Appropriate Funds (LIB) 26-101
  24. C.6 Set a Public Hearing for March 18, 2026 to Consider a Motion to Approve the 2025 Housing Element Annual Progress Report and Direct Staff to Transmit the Report to the California Department of Housing and Community Development and the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research (CD) 26-034
  25. 18 Claims were approved in the amount of $21,825,205.
  26. D. Comments by the Public on Non-Agenda Items
  27. 20 THE TIME ALLOWED PER NON-AGENDA ITEM FOR COMMENTS MADE BY THE PUBLIC IS LIMITED TO FIVE MINUTES.
  28. 20 Accepted the Quarterly Investment Report for the Quarter ending December 31, 2025.
  29. E. Comments by the City Council Members on Non-Agenda Items
  30. F. Public Hearings
  31. 22 Adopted Resolution No. 2026-33 authorizing the Interim City Manager to execute the write-off of uncollectible Utility billing bad debts for the Years 2017 through 2021, approving the total write-off amount of $1,573,855.04, and approve appropriations in the amount of $1,292,718.
  32. F.1 Public Hearing to Repeal and Replace Resolution No. 2018-111 and Authorize the City of Lodi to Join the Statewide Community Infrastructure Program; Authorize the California Statewide Communities Development Authority to Accept Applications from Property Owners, Conduct Special Assessment Proceedings and Levy Assessments and Special District Taxes and to Form Assessment Districts and Community Facilities Districts Within the Territory of the City of Lodi; Embody the Terms of a Joint Community Facilities Agreement Setting Forth the Provisions for Community Facilities District Financings; Approve Form of Acquisition Agreement for Use When Applicable; and Authorize Related Actions (ED) 26-125
  33. G. Regular Calendar
  34. 24 Adopted Resolution No. 2026-34 authorizing the City Manager to accept a donation from the Carnegie Corporation of New York in the amount of $10,000 for the Lodi Public Library and appropriating funds.
  35. G.1 Temporary Access Center and Emergency Shelter Quarterly Update (CD) 26-077
  36. G.2 Consider Adopting a Resolution Authorizing the Interim City Manager to Enter into a Concession Lease Agreement with Galt Fuel, LLC for a Portion of Lawrence Park Located at 350 N. Washington Street, Lodi (ED) 26-126
  37. 26 Adopted Resolution No. 2026-35 authorizing the City Manager to accept a donation from the Constance E. Reynolds Trust in the amount of $25,000 for the Lodi Public Library and appropriating funds.
  38. G.3 Adopt a Resolution Repealing and Replacing Resolution No. 2023-98 and Adopting a Revised Lodi City Council Strategic Vision (CM) 26-132
  39. G.4 Adopt a Resolution Approving Side-Letter Agreement Between the City of Lodi and Lodi Police Mid-Management Organization for a one-time off salary schedule payment (IS - HR) 26-130
  40. 28 Set a public hearing for March 18, 2026, to consider a motion to approve the 2025 Housing Element Annual Progress Report and direct staff to transmit the report to the California Department of Housing and Community Development and the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research.
  41. G.5 Adopt a Resolution Authorizing the City Manager to Execute an Addendum to the Employment Agreement with Jennifer Fontanilla, Library Director, Including Future Wage Adjustments to Bring the Library Director’s Base Salary to $172,010 Annually, effective January 4, 2027, Elimination of CalPERS Cost-Sharing, and Modification to the City’s Contribution to Medical Premiums (IS - HR) 26-111
  42. G.6 Adopt a Resolution Authorizing the City Manager to Execute an Addendum to the Employment Agreement with Christina Jaromay, Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Director, Including Future Wage Adjustments to Bring the PRCS Director’s Base Salary to $219,390 Annually, effective January 4, 2027, Elimination of CalPERS Cost-Sharing, and Modification to the City’s Contribution to Medical Premiums (IS - HR) 26-112
  43. 30 David Mendoza, a local engineer, spoke regarding the excellent service received from the Building Department and the Public Works Department, but he feels the Public Works Department is severely understaffed. Gordon Shields, a member of the public, spoke regarding the help he had received from City staff in getting a handicap ramp installed on his street so that his paraplegic daughter is able to access the community mailbox. Vanessa Barberis, of Waste Management, spoke regarding upcoming events for electronic recycling, secure document shredding, and tire and mattress disposal.
  44. G.7 Adopt a Resolution Authorizing the City Manager to Execute an Addendum to the Employment Agreement with Jeffrey Berkheimer, Electric Utility Director, Maintaining Current Salary of $342,000, Including Future Cost of Living Increases, Elimination of CalPERS Cost-Sharing, and Modification to the City’s Contribution to Medical Premiums (IS - HR) 26-113
  45. G.8 Adopt a Resolution Authorizing the City Manager to Execute an Addendum to the Employment Agreement with Ricardo Garcia, Police Chief Including a One-Point Two One Percent (1.21%) Equity Adjustment to Bring the Police Chief’s Base Salary to $269,921 Annually, effective January 5, 2026, Future Cost of Living Increases, Reduction in CalPERS Cost-Sharing, and Modification to the City’s Contribution to Medical Premiums (IS - HR) 26-114
  46. 32 In response to Council Member Craig-Hensley, Interim Public Works Director Sean Nathan provided information regarding the handicap ramp installed in Mr. Gordon Shield's neighborhood and the Department's database of areas with accessibility issues and trip hazards. Council Member Craig-Hensley suggested sharing the database information with the Senior Citizens Commission and the Lodi Improvement Committee. In response to Council Member Nakanishi, Interim Public Works Director Nathan provided information regarding the length of time the City has maintained the databases. Mayor Pro Tempore Hothi thanked the Public Works Department for responding to Mr. Shield's problem so quickly and efficiently.
  47. G.9 Adopt a Resolution Authorizing the City Manager to Execute an Addendum to the Employment Agreement with Kenneth Johnson, Fire Chief, Including a Five Percent (5%) Equity Adjustment to Bring the Fire Chief’s Base Salary to $236,752 Annually, effective January 5, 2026, Future Cost of Living Increases, and Modification to the City’s Contribution to Medical Premiums (IS - HR) 26-116
  48. G.10 Adopt a Resolution Authorizing the City Manager to Execute an Addendum #2 to the Employment Agreement with Luis Aguilar, Economic Development Director, Including a Five Percent (5%) Equity Adjustment to Bring the Economic Development Director’s Base Salary to $198,198 Annually, effective January 5, 2026, Future Cost of Living Increases, Elimination of CalPERS Cost-Sharing, and Modification to the City’s Contribution to Medical Premiums (IS - HR) 26-115
  49. G.11 Adopt a Resolution Authorizing the City Manager to Execute an Addendum to the Employment Agreement with Katie O. Lucchesi, City Attorney, Including Wage Adjustment to Bring the City Attorney’s Base Salary to $303,680 Annually, Elimination of CalPERS Cost-Sharing, and Modification to the City’s Contribution to Medical Premiums (IS - HR) 26-117
  50. 35 Notice thereof having been published according to law, an affidavit of which publication is on file in the office of the City Clerk, Mayor Yepez called for the public hearing to consider the repeal and replacement of Resolution No. 2018-111 and the authorization of the City of Lodi to join the Statewide Community Infrastructure Program; authorization of the California Statewide Communities Development Authority to accept applications from property owners, conduct Special Assessment proceedings and levy assessments and Special District taxes and to form Assessment Districts and Community Facilities Districts within the territory of the City of Lodi; embodiment of the terms of a Joint Community Facilities Agreement setting forth the provisions for Community Facilities District financings; approval of the Form of Acquisition Agreement for use when applicable; and authorization of related actions. Economic Development Director Luis Aguilar provided a presentation regarding the Statewide Community Infrastructure Program. Specific topics of discussion included the development of the Statewide Community Infrastructure Program by the California Statewide Communities Development Authority (CSCDA) to help finance development projects, pooled tax-exempt bonds that fund development impact fees and public improvement for private development, bond issuance by CSCDA as a joint powers authority sponsored by the League of California Cities and the California State Association of Counties, Lodi membership in the program since 2018, program expansion to include financing public capital improvements constructed by developers and public services necessary to support new development, modifications to the legal documentation for Community Facilities Districts (CFD), need for a public hearing, and program benefits. Council Member Craig-Hensley spoke regarding the program meeting some of the strategic priorities. In response to Council Member Nakanishi, Interim City Manager Busch confirmed the program issues tax-exempt bonds. Mayor Yepez opened the public hearing for public comment at 7:48 p.m. There being no public comments, Mayor Yepez closed the public hearing at 7:48 p.m.
  51. G.12 Adopt a Resolution Authorizing the City Manager to Execute an Addendum to the Employment Agreement with Olivia Nashed, City Clerk, Including Wage Adjustment to Bring the City Clerk’s Base Salary to $162,842 Annually, Elimination of CalPERS Cost-Sharing, and Modification to the City’s Contribution to Medical Premiums (IS - HR) 26-118
  52. 36 Council Member Craig-Hensley made a motion, second by Mayor Pro Tempore Hothi, to repeal and replace Resolution No. 2018-111 and adopt Resolution No. 2026-36 authorizing the City of Lodi to join the Statewide Community Infrastructure Program; authorizing the California Statewide Communities Development Authority to accept applications from property owners, conduct Special Assessment proceedings and levy assessments and Special District taxes and to form Assessment Districts and Community Facilities Districts within the territory of the City of Lodi; embody the terms of a Joint Community Facilities Agreement setting forth the provisions for Community Facilities District financings; approving the form of Acquisition Agreement for use when applicable; and authorizing related actions. VOTE: The above motion carried by the following vote: Ayes: Council Member Bregman, Council Member Craig-Hensley, Council Member Nakanishi, Mayor Pro Tempore Hothi, and Mayor Yepez Noes: None Absent:None
  53. 37 page break
  54. H. Ordinances
  55. H.1 Waive the Second Reading and Adopt Ordinance No. 2046 Revising Lodi Municipal Code, Section 13.20.240 Schedule G1-General Service-Group 1 Commercial/Industrial and Section 13.20.250 Schedule G2-General Service-Group 2 Commercial/Industrial (Community Benefits Incentive Discount) (CLK) 26-119
  56. 39 Neighborhood Services Manager Jennifer Rhyne and Outreach Ministries International's Jason McEachron provided a PowerPoint presentation regarding the Temporary Access Center and Emergency Shelter Quarterly update. Specific topics of discussion included provision of update for two quarters, overview, Access Center construction budget and schedule update, Temporary Access Center operator budget status overview, Year One contract budget breakdown, first quarter of Year Two contract budget breakdown, Lodi Access Center success statistics, 15-month update, Tree to Success, client demographics, seniors at the Access Center, In response to Mayor Yepez, Mr. McEachron provided information regarding the tracking and follow-up of clients who have been placed in housing, programs, or jobs. Council Member Craig-Hensley state that the information provided shows the cost per person served at the Access Center is significantly lower than the County and State average. In response to Council Member Nakanishi, Mr. McEachron provided information regarding the current bed count. In response to Council Member Bregman, Mr. McEachron provided information regarding occupancy. In response to Council Member Bregman, Neighborhood Services Manager Rhyne provided information regarding referrals from outside of Lodi. In response to Mayor Yepez, Mr. McEachron provided information regarding the average salary for Access Center employees. Johnny Coughran??? provided Lodi Access Center hats to City Council. No Council action was required on this item.
  57. I. Adjournment
  58. 41 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- All staff reports or other written documentation relating to each item of business referred to on the agenda are on file in the Office of the City Clerk, located at 221 W. Pine Street, Lodi, and are available for public inspection. Agendas and staff reports are also posted on the City’s website at www.lodi.gov. If requested, the agenda shall be made available in appropriate alternative formats to persons with a disability, as required by Section 202 of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. Sec. 12132), and the federal rules and regulations adopted in implementation thereof. To make a request for disability-related modification or accommodation contact the City Clerk’s Office as soon as possible and at least 72 hours prior to the meeting date. Language interpreter requests must be received at least 72 hours in advance of the meeting to help ensure availability. Contact Olivia Nashed at (209) 333-6702. Solicitudes de interpretación de idiomas deben ser recibidas por lo menos con 72 horas de anticipación a la reunión para ayudar a asegurar la disponibilidad. Llame a Olivia Nashed (209) 333-6702. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Meetings of the Lodi City Council are telecast on SJTV, Channel 26. The City of Lodi provides live and archived webcasts of regular City Council meetings. The webcasts can be found on the City's website at www.lodi.gov by clicking the meeting webcasts link. Members of the public may view and listen to the open session of this meeting at www.facebook.com/CityofLodi/. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  59. 41 Economic Development Director Luis Aguilar provided a presentation regarding a Concession Lease Agreement with Galt Fuel Station, LLC, for a portion of Lawrence Park, located at 350 North Washington Street, Lodi . Specific topics of discussion included American Legion building adjacent to Lawrence Park, current renovations to the American Legion building to be re-purposed as an event space, Galt Field Station's request to lease approximately 5,400 square feet of the land from Lawrence Park for the construction of an enclosed dining and entertainment patio with related improvements on the southern end of the property, and terms of the agreement. In response to Council Member Bregman, City Attorney Lucchesi clarified what Council Members may discuss in Open Session, relative to what was discussed in Closed Session. Maria Jones, a member of the American Legion, spoke in favor of the agreement. Bertha Castro, Lodi resident and President of Unidos Progresdando - Progressing Together, spoke in favor of the agreement. JP Doucette, President of the Lodi Chamber of Commerce, acknowledged the years of service provided to the American Legion Post by Maria and Martin Jones, and spoke in favor of the agreement. Ryan Ranchhod, speaking on behalf of the Diede family and those involved in the Legion Hall renovation, thanked the City for the collaboration on the project and spoke in favor of the agreement. Council Member Craig-Hensley stated that is important to remember that the American Legion Hall is a memorial to those who lost their lives defending our nation, which makes it important to have the space activated again. She also spoke regarding the community's support of the renovation of the Legion Hall building and the continued presence of the police at Lawrence Park. Council Member Bregman spoke regarding his appreciation of the building and the community effort in the Lawrence Park area. He further stated that he feels the City should have a system to calculate property value vs. return or public benefit for the lease of City property, so that in the future the City is able to demonstrate the process behind the decision.
  60. 42 Mayor Pro Tempore Hothi made a motion, second by Council Member Craig-Hensley, to adopt Resolution No. 2026-37 authorizing the Interim City Manager to enter into a Concession Lease Agreement with Galt Fuel Station, LLC, for a portion of Lawrence Park located at 350 North Washington Street. VOTE: The above motion carried by the following vote: Ayes: Council Member Craig-Hensley, Council Member Nakanishi, Mayor Pro Tempore Hothi, and Mayor Yepez Noes: Council Member Bregman Absent:None
  61. 44 City Clerk Nashed provided a presentation regarding a revised Lodi City Council Strategic Vision. Specific topics of discussion included the 2023 two-day strategic planning session, Council-directed updates in January 2026 by Interim City Manager Lindsay, and the proposed resolution adopting those changes. Interim City Manager Busch stated that this is a foundational piece that Council will rely on for budget purposes and work plans, and he looks forward to working with the departments as they incorporate this priorities in the upcoming budget. In response to Mayor Yepez, Interim City Manager Busch provided information regarding aligning work plans and clarification of competing priorities. Council Member Craig-Hensley spoke regarding the need for measurable objectives and alignment of the work plans to the priorities and recapped her priority list. JP Doucette, President of the Lodi Chamber of Commerce, spoke regarding the Chamber's willingness to help, business retention and expansion plan, outreach to local employers through the Chamber to collect meaningful data, creation of a business-friendly environment, and partnerships within the community.
  62. 45 Council Member Bregman made a motion, second by Council Member Craig-Hensley, to adopt Resolution No. 2026-38 repealing and replacing Resolution No. 2023-98 and adopting a revised Lodi City Council Strategic Vision. VOTE: The above motion carried by the following vote: Ayes: Council Member Bregman, Council Member Craig-Hensley, Council Member Nakanishi, Mayor Pro Tempore Hothi, and Mayor Yepez Noes: None Absent:None
  63. 47 Interim Human Resources Manager Cristina Gonzales provided a presentation regarding a Side-Letter Agreement between the City of Lodi and the Lodi Police Mid-Management Organization (LPMO) for a one-time off salary schedule payment. Specific topics of discussion included previously-negotiated CalPERS cost-sharing agreements with all employee groups, LPMO's agreement to contribute 9% towards the City's contribution through previous MOUs, successor MOU approved by Council on November 19, 2025, lowering the contribution to 3%, delay in execution of amendment during which time members continued to pay a 9% contribution, complaint filed by LPMO, amendment to cost-sharing agreement effective date of February 2, 2026, agreement to one-time off salary schedule payment of $1,000 per LPMO member, adoption of Side Letter to resolve the LPMO complaint, and staff recommendation.
  64. 48 Council Member Nakanishi made a motion, second by Mayor Pro Tempore Hothi, to adopt Resolution No. 2026-39 approving the Side-Letter Agreement between the City of Lodi and the Lodi Police Mid-Management Organization for a one-time off salary schedule payment. VOTE: The above motion carried by the following vote: Ayes: Council Member Bregman, Council Member Craig-Hensley, Council Member Nakanishi, Mayor Pro Tempore Hothi, and Mayor Yepez Noes: None Absent:None
  65. 50 Interim City Manager Busch provided a PowerPoint presentation regarding an addendum to the Employment Agreement with Jennifer Fontanilla, Library Director, including future wage adjustments to bring the Library Director’s base salary to $172,010 annually, effective January 4, 2027, elimination of CalPERS cost-sharing, and modification to the City’s contribution to medical premiums. Interim City Manager Busch noted that due to the similarity in the final eight items on the agenda, and in the interest of time, he will provide one PowerPoint presentation for the general information and highlight the differences on individual slides for each position. Specific topics of discussion included background on City negotiations, common negotiated terms offered to all employees, and the Library Director addendum. Council Member Craig-Hensley thanked Interim City Manager Busch for the clarification of the information provided in the agenda packet. Council Member Nakanishi spoke regarding the hours spent on reaching these agreements and the goal of getting the City's employees to the median salary range. Council Member Bregman spoke regarding the need to retain good employees. Mayor Yepez spoke regarding his evaluation of City directors and his intention to vote against some of the items.
  66. 51 Mayor Pro Tempore Hothi made a motion, second by Council Member Nakanishi, to adopt Resolution No. 2026-40 authorizing the City Manager to execute an Addendum to the Employment Agreement with Jennifer Fontanilla, Library Director, including future wage adjustments to bring the Library Director’s base salary to $172,010 annually, effective January 4, 2027, elimination of CalPERS cost-sharing, and modification to the City’s contribution to medical premiums. VOTE: The above motion carried by the following vote: Ayes: Council Member Bregman, Council Member Craig-Hensley, Council Member Nakanishi, and Mayor Pro Tempore Hothi Noes: Mayor Yepez Absent:None
  67. 53 Interim City Manager Busch provided a PowerPoint presentation regarding an addendum to the Employment Agreement with Christina Jaromay, Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services (PRCS) Director, including future wage adjustments to bring the PRCS Director’s base salary to $219,390 annually, effective January 4, 2027, elimination of CalPERS cost-sharing, and modification to the City’s contribution to medical premiums. Interim City Manager Busch noted that due to the similarity in the final eight items on the agenda, and in the interest of time, he will provide one PowerPoint presentation for the general information and highlight the differences on individual slides for each position. Specific topics of discussion included background on City negotiations, common negotiated terms offered to all employees, and the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Director addendum.
  68. 54 Mayor Pro Tempore Hothi made a motion, second by Council Member Bregman, to adopt Resolution No. 2026-41 authorizing the City Manager to execute an Addendum to the Employment Agreement with Christina Jaromay, Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Director, including future wage adjustments to bring the PRCS Director’s base salary to $219,390 annually, effective January 4, 2027, elimination of CalPERS cost-sharing, and modification to the City’s contribution to medical premiums. VOTE: The above motion carried by the following vote: Ayes: Council Member Bregman, Council Member Craig-Hensley, Council Member Nakanishi, and Mayor Pro Tempore Hothi Noes: Mayor Yepez Absent:None
  69. 56 Interim City Manager Busch provided a PowerPoint presentation regarding an addendum to the Employment Agreement with Jeffrey Berkheimer, Electric Utility Director, maintaining current salary of $342,000, including future cost of living increases, elimination of CalPERS cost-sharing, and modification to the City’s contribution to medical premiums. Interim City Manager Busch noted that due to the similarity in the final eight items on the agenda, and in the interest of time, he will provide one PowerPoint presentation for the general information and highlight the differences on individual slides for each position. Specific topics of discussion included background on City negotiations, common negotiated terms offered to all employees, and the Electric Utility Director addendum.
  70. 57 Council Member Nakanishi made a motion, second by Council Member Bregman, to adopt Resolution No. 2026-42 authorizing the City Manager to execute an Addendum to the Employment Agreement with Jeffrey Berkheimer, Electric Utility Director, maintaining the current salary of $342,000, including future cost of living increases, elimination of CalPERS cost-sharing, and modification to the City’s contribution to medical premiums. VOTE: The above motion carried by the following vote: Ayes: Council Member Bregman, Council Member Craig-Hensley, Council Member Nakanishi, Mayor Pro Tempore Hothi, and Mayor Yepez Noes: None Absent:None
  71. 59 Interim City Manager Busch provided a presentation regarding an addendum to the Employment Agreement with Ricardo Garcia, Police Chief, including a 1.21% equity adjustment to bring the Police Chief’s base salary to $269,921 annually, effective January 5, 2026, future cost of living increases, reduction in CalPERS cost-sharing, and modification to the City’s contribution to medical premiums. Interim City Manager Busch noted that due to the similarity in the final eight items on the agenda, and in the interest of time, he will provide one PowerPoint presentation for the general information and highlight the differences on individual slides for each position. Specific topics of discussion included background on City negotiations, common negotiated terms offered to all employees, and the Police Chief addendum.
  72. 60 Council Member Craig-Hensley made a motion, second by Council Member Bregman, to adopt Resolution No. 2026-43 authorizing the City Manager to execute an Addendum to the Employment Agreement with Ricardo Garcia, Police Chief including a 1.21% equity adjustment to bring the Police Chief’s base salary to $269,921 annually, effective January 5, 2026, future cost of living increases, reduction in CalPERS cost-sharing, and modification to the City’s contribution to medical premiums. VOTE: The above motion carried by the following vote: Ayes: Council Member Bregman, Council Member Craig-Hensley, Council Member Nakanishi, Mayor Pro Tempore Hothi, and Mayor Yepez Noes: None Absent:None
  73. 62 Interim City Manager Busch provided a presentation regarding an addendum to the Employment Agreement with Kenneth Johnson, Fire Chief, including a 5% equity adjustment to bring the Fire Chief’s base salary to $236,752 annually, effective January 5, 2026, future cost of living increases, and modification to the City’s contribution to medical premiums. Interim City Manager Busch noted that due to the similarity in the final eight items on the agenda, and in the interest of time, he will provide one PowerPoint presentation for the general information and highlight the differences on individual slides for each position. Specific topics of discussion included background on City negotiations, common negotiated terms offered to all employees, and the Fire Chief addendum.
  74. 63 Council Member Craig-Hensley made a motion, second by Council Member Bregman, to adopt Resolution No. 2026-44 authorizing the City Manager to execute an Addendum to the Employment Agreement with Kenneth Johnson, Fire Chief, including a 5% equity adjustment to bring the Fire Chief’s base salary to $236,752 annually, effective January 5, 2026, future cost of living increases, and modification to the City’s contribution to medical premiums. VOTE: The above motion carried by the following vote: Ayes: Council Member Bregman, Council Member Craig-Hensley, Council Member Nakanishi, Mayor Pro Tempore Hothi, and Mayor Yepez Noes: None Absent:None
  75. 65 Interim City Manager Busch provided a presentation regarding Addendum No. 2 to the Employment Agreement with Luis Aguilar, Economic Development Director, including a 5% equity adjustment to bring the Economic Development Director’s base salary to $198,198 annually, effective January 5, 2026, future cost of living increases, elimination of CalPERS cost-sharing, and modification to the City’s contribution to medical premiums. Interim City Manager Busch noted that due to the similarity in the final eight items on the agenda, and in the interest of time, he will provide one PowerPoint presentation for the general information and highlight the differences on individual slides for each position. Specific topics of discussion included background on City negotiations, common negotiated terms offered to all employees, and the Economic Development Director addendum.
  76. 66 Council Member Nakanishi made a motion, second by Council Member Craig-Hensley, to adopt Resolution No. 2026-45 authorizing the City Manager to execute an Addendum No.2 to the Employment Agreement with Luis Aguilar, Economic Development Director, including a 5% equity adjustment to bring the Economic Development Director’s base salary to $198,198 annually, effective January 5, 2026, future cost of living increases, elimination of CalPERS cost-sharing, and modification to the City’s contribution to medical premiums. VOTE: The above motion carried by the following vote: Ayes: Council Member Bregman, Council Member Craig-Hensley, Council Member Nakanishi, and Mayor Pro Tempore Hothi Noes: Mayor Yepez Absent:None
  77. 68 Interim City Manager Busch provided a presentation regarding an addendum to the Employment Agreement with Katie O. Lucchesi, City Attorney, including wage adjustment to bring the City Attorney’s base salary to $303,680 annually, elimination of CalPERS cost-sharing, and modification to the City’s contribution to medical premiums. Interim City Manager Busch noted that due to the similarity in the final eight items on the agenda, and in the interest of time, he will provide one PowerPoint presentation for the general information and highlight the differences on individual slides for each position. Specific topics of discussion included background on City negotiations, common negotiated terms offered to all employees, appointees evaluation procedure, and the City Attorney addendum. Council Member Craig-Hensley stated the City Attorney and City Clerk are the only two positions on the agenda that Council has the opportunity for a performance evaluation and the Council as a whole approved the City Attorney and City Clerk addendums.
  78. 69 Mayor Pro Tempore Hothi made a motion, second by Council Member Bregman, to adopt Resolution No. 2026-46 authorizing the City Manager to execute an Addendum to the Employment Agreement with Katie O. Lucchesi, City Attorney, including wage adjustment to bring the City Attorney’s base salary to $303,680 annually, elimination of CalPERS cost-sharing, and modification to the City’s contribution to medical premiums. VOTE: The above motion carried by the following vote: Ayes: Council Member Bregman, Council Member Craig-Hensley, Council Member Nakanishi, and Mayor Pro Tempore Hothi Noes: Mayor Yepez Absent:None
  79. 71 Interim City Manager Busch provided a presentation regarding an addendum to the Employment Agreement with Olivia Nashed, City Clerk, including wage adjustment to bring the City Clerk’s base salary to $162,842 annually, elimination of CalPERS cost-sharing, and modification to the City’s contribution to medical premiums. Interim City Manager Busch noted that due to the similarity in the final eight items on the agenda, and in the interest of time, he will provide one PowerPoint presentation for the general information and highlight the differences on individual slides for each position. Specific topics of discussion included background on City negotiations, common negotiated terms offered to all employees, appointees evaluation procedure, and the City Clerk addendum. Scott Hamilton, a member of the public, spoke regarding the process of department directors' contracts coming to Council when those positions report to the City Manager.
  80. 72 Council Member Craig-Hensley made a motion, second by Council Member Bregman, to adopt Resolution No. 2026-47 authorizing the City Manager to execute an Addendum to the Employment Agreement with Olivia Nashed, City Clerk, including wage adjustment to bring the City Clerk’s base salary to $162,842 annually, elimination of CalPERS cost-sharing, and modification to the City’s contribution to medical premiums. VOTE: The above motion carried by the following vote: Ayes: Council Member Bregman, Council Member Craig-Hensley, Council Member Nakanishi, Mayor Pro Tempore Hothi, and Mayor Yepez Noes: None Absent:None
  81. 75 City Clerk Nashed provided a presentation regarding Ordinance No. 2046. Specific items of discussion included introduction date and staff recommendation. Council Member Craig-Hensley stated that she spoke with Assistant Electric Utility Director Melissa Price regarding this ordinance and received information about which groups would benefit from this program. She further stated that she would encourage local nonprofits to contact Assistant Electric Utility Director Price regarding possible qualification for the program. Council Member Craig-Hensley made a motion, second by Council Member Bregman, (following reading of the title) to waive reading of the ordinance in full and adopt and order to print Ordinance No. 2046 entitled, "An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Lodi Revising Lodi Municipal Code, Section 13.20.240 Schedule G1-General Service-Group 1 Commercial/Industrial and Section 13.20.250 Schedule G2-General Service-Group 2 Commercial/Industrial (Community Benefits Incentive Discount)," which was introduced at a regular meeting of the Lodi City Council held February 18, 2026. VOTE: The above motion carried by the following vote: Ayes: Council Member Bregman, Council Member Craig-Hensley, Council Member Nakanishi, Mayor Pro Tempore Hothi, and Mayor Yepez Noes: None Absent:None
  82. 77 There being no further business to come before the City Council, the meeting was adjourned at 9:16 p.m.