docketcity.com
Home › Lodi › Meetings

City Council

February 18, 2026 ·7:00 PM Final

Carnegie Forum 305 West Pine Street, Lodi

Agenda PDF Official record ↗

Agenda — 116 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 February 18, 2026, was called to order by Mayor Yepez at 6:17 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 Lindsay, City Attorney Lucchesi, and City Clerk Nashed BREGMAN AND NAKANISHI ABSENT OR LATE??? .
  4. a) PUBLIC EMPLOYEE APPOINTMENT, Pursuant to Government Code § 54957(b). One Position: Interim City Manager.
  5. b) CONFERENCE ON LABOR NEGOTIATIONS – Regarding International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Lodi City Mid-Management Association, AFSCME General Services and Maintenance & Operators, Police Mid-Managers, Lodi Police Officers Association, Lodi Police Dispatchers Association, Lodi Professional Firefighters, Lodi Fire Mid-Management, Confidential General Services, Confidential Mid-Managers, Executive Managers, and Appointed Employees, Pursuant to Government Code § 54957.6 (HR)
  6. c) CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - ANTICIPATED LITIGATION, significant Exposure to Litigation pursuant to Government Code § 54956.9(d)(2). Two cases.
  7. C-3 Adjourn to Closed Session
  8. 7 6:55 p.m. Invocation/Call to Civic Responsibility.
  9. 8 NOTE: THE FOLLOWING ITEMS WILL COMMENCE NO SOONER THAN 7:00 P.M.
  10. 8 At 6:19 p.m., Mayor Yepez adjourned the meeting to a Closed Session to discuss the above matters. The Closed Session adjourned at 7:05 p.m.
  11. C-4 Return to Open Session / Disclosure of Action
  12. A. Call to Order / Roll Call
  13. 10 At 7:05 p.m., Mayor Yepez reconvened the City Council meeting, and City Attorney Lucchesi disclosed that there was no reportable action.
  14. B. Presentations
  15. B.1 Presentation of Proclamation In Observance of the Month of Ramadan, February 17 - March 19, 2026 (CLK) 26-107
  16. 12 The Regular City Council meeting of February 18, 2026, was called to order by Mayor Yepez at 7:06 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 Lindsay, City Attorney Lucchesi, and City Clerk Nashed
  17. B.2 Presentation of Recognition to Retiring Community Development Director, John Della Monica (CLK) 26-097
  18. B.3 Presentation of Recognition to Outgoing Interim City Manager, James Lindsay (CLK) 26-098
  19. C. Consent Calendar (Reading; Comments by the Public; Council Action)
  20. 15 Mayor Yepez presented a proclamation in observance of the Month of Ramadan, February 17 - March 19, 2026, to Masjid Ya Rasool-Allah, Khurram Shehzan Khan, Roger Khan, Mohsen Masood Khan, and Muhammad Sohrab Ali Khan.
  21. C.1 Receive and File Treasurer’s Report and Register of Claims (IS - FIN) 26-062
  22. C.2 Accept the Quarterly Investment Report for the Quarter Ending September 30, 2025 (IS - FIN) 26-061
  23. 17 Retiring Community Development Director John Della Monica spoke regarding his time at the City of Lodi and his appreciation of staff and the community. Mayor Yepez presented retiring Community Development Director Della Monica with a key to the City and a historical picture of the City signed by Community Development staff. Deputy Community Development Director Cynthia Marsh and Neighborhood Services Manager Jennifer Rhyne spoke about Community Development Director Della Monica. Council Member Nakanishi spoke regarding Community Development Director Della Monica's service to the City and the community.
  24. C.3 Accept the Quarterly Report of Purchases between $30,000 and $60,000 through December 31, 2025 (IS - FIN) 26-063
  25. C.4 Adopt a Resolution Waiving the Bid Process and Approving Renewal of Dental Claims Administration Agreement with Stanislaus Foundation for Medical Care and Further Authorizing the Interim City Manager to Execute Agreement (IS - HR) 26-088
  26. 19 Mayor Yepez outgoing Interim City Manager James Lindsay with an axe made by the Fire Department and a key to the City and spoke regarding his service to the City. Outgoing City Manager Lindsay spoke regarding his time with the City. Council Member Nakanishi and Council Member Bregman spoke regarding outgoing City Manager Lindsay's contributions to the City.
  27. C.5 Consider Adopting a Resolution Approving the Allocation of Public Benefit Funds of $7,500 from District 2 Non-Profit Funds to Lodi Community Church (“Love Lodi”) (Total $7,500) (CLK) 26-099
  28. C.6 Adopt a Resolution Repealing and Replacing Resolution No. 2023-98 and Adopting a Revised Lodi City Council Strategic Vision (CM) 26-074
  29. 21 Mayor Pro Tempore Hothi made a motion, second by Council Member Craig-Hensley, to to approve the following items hereinafter set forth, except those otherwise noted, 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
  30. C.7 Adopt a Resolution Appointing Christina Jaromay to the Position of City Treasurer of the City of Lodi (CM) 26-093
  31. C.8 Adopt a Resolution Updating City Staff Signers on City of Lodi Farmers & Merchants Bank Accounts (IS - BUD) 26-070
  32. 23 Claims were approved in the amount of $156,510,180..
  33. C.9 Adopt a Resolution Accepting and Appropriating the Homeless Housing, Assistance, and Prevention (HHAP) Round 5 Grant and Authorizing the Interim City Manager or Designee to Execute HHAP Round 5 Subrecipient Agreements in a Form Acceptable by the City Attorney (CD) 26-094
  34. C.10 Approve Lodi Tourism Business Improvement District 2025 Annual Report (ED) 26-057
  35. 25 Accepted the Quarterly Investment Report for the quarter ending September 30, 2025.
  36. C.11 Adopt a Resolution Approving Lodi Electric Utility Fee Schedule and Authorizing Annual Cost Based Adjustments (EU) 26-069
  37. C.12 Adopt a Resolution Rejecting All Bids for the Adore Pets Building Demolition (PW) 26-011
  38. 27 Accepted the Quarterly Report of Purchases between $30,000 and $60,000 through December 31, 2025.
  39. C.13 Adopt a Resolution Authorizing Interim City Manager to Execute Amendment No. 5 with West Yost & Associates, Inc of Davis, for Fiscal Year 2025/26 Regulatory Engineering Services at White Slough Water Pollution Control Facility ($60,000) (PW) 26-041
  40. C.14 Adopt a Resolution Authorizing Interim City Manager to Execute a Memorandum of Understanding Between the San Joaquin Council of Governments and the City of Lodi Regarding the Coordination of Ongoing Transit Planning and Programming of Federal Funds that Support the Ongoing and Future Deployment of Transit Services in the San Joaquin Region (PW) 26-043
  41. 29 Adopted Resolution No. 2026-17 waiving the bid process and approving the renewal of the Dental Claims Administration Agreement with Stanislaus Foundation for Medical Care and further authorizing the Interim City Manager to execute the agreement.
  42. C.15 Accept Improvements Under Contract for 2024 DeBenedetti Park South Parking Lot Expansion (PW) 26-055
  43. C.16 Set Public Hearing for March 18, 2026, to Consider Resolution Adopting Pre-Approved, Proposition 218 Consumer Price Index-Based Annual Adjustment to Rates for Solid Waste Collection (PW) 26-054
  44. 31 Adopted Resolution No. 2026-18 approving the allocation of Public Benefit Funds of $7,500 from District 2 Non-Profit Funds to Lodi Community Church (“Love Lodi”).
  45. C.17 Set a Public Hearing for March 4, 2026, 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) 26-075
  46. D. Comments by the Public on Non-Agenda Items - None
  47. 33 This item was pulled at the request of Council Member Craig-Hensley. Council Member Craig-Hensley stated that she would like this item on the Regular Calendar so that the public had the opportunity to provide feedback on prioritization, with her preference being continuing it to the March 4, 2026 agenda. In response to Mayor Yepez, City Clerk Nashed provided information regarding continuing the item to the March 4, 2026 agenda. Council Member Craig-Hensley made a motion, second by Council Member Bregman, to continue this item to the March 4, 2026 Regular Calendar agenda. 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
  48. 34 THE TIME ALLOWED PER NON-AGENDA ITEM FOR COMMENTS MADE BY THE PUBLIC IS LIMITED TO FIVE MINUTES.
  49. E. Comments by the City Council Members on Non-Agenda Items
  50. 35 This item was pulled at the request of Council Member Craig-Hensley. Council Member Craig-Hensley spoke regarding the need for codification of the qualifications of the position of City Treasurer. This item was included in the vote on the Consent Calendar. Adopted Resolution No. 2026-19 appointing Christina Jaromay to the position of City Treasurer of the City of Lodi.
  51. 36 page break
  52. F. Public Hearings
  53. 37 Adopted Resolution No. 2026-20 updating City staff signers on City of Lodi Farmers & Merchants Bank accounts.
  54. F.1 Public Hearing to Consider Adopting a Resolution Setting Pre-Approved Engineering News Record Adjustment Index for Usage-Based and Flat Water Rates for Residential, Commercial, and Industrial Customers (PW) 26-056
  55. F.2 Public Hearing to Consider Waiving the First Reading and Introducing Ordinance 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) (EU) 26-072
  56. 39 This item was pulled at the request of Mayor Yepez. Mayor Yepez requested that this item be voted on separately from the Consent Calendar. Council Member Bregman made a motion, second by Mayor Pro Tempore Hothi, to adopt Resolution No. 2026-21 accepting and appropriating the Homeless Housing, Assistance, and Prevention (HHAP) Round 5 Grant and authorizing the Interim City Manager or designee to execute HHAP Round 5 Subrecipient Agreements in a form acceptable by the City Attorney. 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
  57. G. Regular Calendar
  58. G.1 Receive Presentation of the Lodi Economic Development Strategic Plan and Consider Resolution Adopting the Plan (ED) 26-058
  59. 41 This item was pulled at the request of Council Member Craig-Hensley. Council Member Craig-Hensley stated that she feels it is important that Council and the public are informed about the activities of the Lodi Tourism Business Improvement District and invited Visit Lodi President Wes Rhea to the podium. Mr. Rhea provided a brief overview of the annual report. This item was included in the vote on the Consent Calendar. Approved the Lodi Tourism Business Improvement District 2025 Annual Report.
  60. G.2 Consider Adopting a Resolution Extending the Term of Economic Development Ad-Hoc Committee for an Additional Year (ED) 26-059
  61. G.3 Discuss and Provide Direction on the Formation of a City Council Ad Hoc Committee to Review and Make Recommendations on the City’s Delivery of Services to the Community (CM) 26-092
  62. 43 Adopted Resolution No. 2026-22 approving the Lodi Electric Utility Fee Schedule and authorizing annual cost based adjustments.
  63. G.4 Adopt a Resolution Approving the Memorandum of Understanding Between the City of Lodi and the Lodi Professional Firefighters for the Period January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2028 (IS - HR) 26-089
  64. G.5 Adopt a Resolution Approving the Memorandum of Understanding Between the City of Lodi and the Lodi City Mid-Management Association for the Period January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2028 (IS - HR) 26-078
  65. 45 This item was pulled at the request of Council Member Craig-Hensley. In response to Council Member Craig-Hensley, Interim Public Works Director Sean Nathan provided information regarding the rejection of bids for the Adore Pets building demolition and the Community Development Department's alternate plan for the demolition. This item was included in the vote on the Consent Calendar. Adopted Resolution No. 2026-23 rejecting all bids for the Adore Pets building demolition.
  66. G.6 Adopt a Resolution Defining Benefits and Approving Benefit Modifications and Compensation for Unrepresented Mid-Management and General Service employees (CM) 26-087
  67. G.7 Adopt a Resolution Approving Side-Letter Agreements Between the City of Lodi and Local 1245 International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IS - HR) 26-090
  68. 47 Adopted Resolution No. 2026-24 authorizing the Interim City Manager to execute Amendment No. 5 to the Professional Services Agreement with West Yost & Associates, Inc., of Davis, for Fiscal Year 2025/26 regulatory engineering services at White Slough Water Pollution Control Facility, in the amount of $60,000.
  69. G.8 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 (CM) 26-079
  70. G.9 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 (CM) 26-080
  71. 49 Adopted Resolution No. 2026-25 authorizing the Interim City Manager to execute a Memorandum of Understanding between the San Joaquin Council of Governments and the City of Lodi regarding the coordination of ongoing Transit planning and programming of Federal funds that support the ongoing and future deployment of Transit services in the San Joaquin Region.
  72. G.10 Adopt a Resolution Authorizing the City Manager to Execute an Addendum to the Employment Agreement with Jeffrey Berkheimer, Electric Utility Director, Including Future Cost of Living Increases, Elimination of CalPERS Cost-Sharing, and Modification to the City’s Contribution to Medical Premiums (CM) 26-081
  73. G.11 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 (CM) 26-082
  74. 51 This item was pulled at the request of Mayor Pro Tempore Hothi. In response to Mayor Pro Tempore Hothi, Interim Public Works Director Sean Nathan provided information regarding the 2024 DeBenedetti Park South Parking Lot Expansion project, including the scope of work, the Building Code requirement for EV chargers, and the delay in installation of the chargers. In response to Mayor Yepez, Interim Public Works Director Nathan provided information regarding the specifics of the EV chargers. In response to Mayor Yepez, Assistant Electric Utility Director Melissa price provided information regarding the installation of EV fast chargers. This item was included in the vote on the Consent Calendar. Accepted the improvements under the contract for the 2024 DeBenedetti Park South Parking Lot Expansion.
  75. G.12 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 (CM) 26-083
  76. G.13 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 (CM) 26-084
  77. 53 Set a public hearing for March 18, 2026, to consider a resolution adopting pre-approved, Proposition 218 Consumer Price Index-based annual adjustment to rates for solid waste collection.
  78. G.14 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 (CM) 26-085
  79. G.15 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 (CM) 26-086
  80. 55 Set a public hearing for March 4, 2026, 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.
  81. G.16 Adopt a Resolution Appointing an Interim City Manager Candidate, a Retired PERS Annuitant, at a Rate of $140 per hour and Not to Exceed 960 hours in a Fiscal Year (IS - HR) 26-105
  82. H. Ordinances
  83. H.1 Waive the Second Reading and Adopt Ordinance No. 2044 Amending Lodi Municipal Code Chapter 15.44 “Off-Site Improvements and Dedications,” by Updating Section 15.44.040 “Exemption or Deferment” (CLK) 26-095
  84. 58 Council Member Craig-Hensley spoke regarding the delayed posting of the agenda and her inability to read all of the agreements tied to Items G.8 through G.15 due to the late posting. She requested that those items be continued to the March 4 agenda.
  85. H.2 Waive the Second Reading and Adopt Ordinance No. 2045 Amending Lodi Municipal Code Chapter 2.12 “City Manager” by Revising Section 2.12.050 “Removal” (CLK) 26-096
  86. I. Adjournment
  87. 61 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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/. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  88. 61 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 adopting a resolution setting pre-approved Engineering News Record adjustment index for usage-based and flat water rates for residential, commercial, and industrial customers. Public Works Management Analyst Rebecca Areida provided a PowerPoint presentation regarding the setting pre-approved Engineering News Record adjustment index for usage-based and flat water rates for residential, commercial, and industrial customers. Specific topics of discussion included background, staff recommendation, Water Meter Program status, seven-year summary of rate adjustments, rate increase history, recommended meter rates, 2.4% increase amounts, rate comparison of local cities, planned Capital projects, and recommendation. In response to Council Member Bregman, City Attorney Lucchesi provided information regarding Proposition 218. In response to Council Member Bregman, Interim Public Works Director Sean Nathan provided information regarding the Capital project for the Water Treatment Plant capacity expansion planned for FY 29/30 and the separate issue of infrastructure for stormwater and wastewater. In response to Council Member Craig-Hensley, Mayor Pro Tempore Hothi and City Attorney Lucchesi provided information regarding the rate adjustment and ENR in 2021. In response to Council Member Nakanishi, Interim Public Works Director Nathan clarified the process for rate adjustment. Council Member Bregman requested additional information be provided to Council regarding the Water Treatment Plant capacity expansion project. Mayor Yepez opened the public hearing for public comment at 7:57 p.m. There being no public comments, Mayor Yepez closed the public hearing at 7:58 p.m.
  89. 62 Council Member Craig-Hensley made a motion, second by Council Member Nakanishi, to adopt Resolution No. 2026-26 setting pre-approved Engineering News Record adjustment index for usage-based and flat water rates for residential, commercial, and industrial customers. 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
  90. 64 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 waiving the first reading and introducing an ordinance 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). Assistant Electric Utility (EU) Director Melissa Price provided a PowerPoint presentation regarding the introduction of an ordinance 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). Specific topics of discussion included background on Community Benefits Incentive Discount (CBID), current situation, proposed ordinance changes, timeline, next steps, and recommendation. In response to Council Member Craig-Hensley, Assistant EU Director Price provided information regarding the self-certification process and screening and the Disadvantaged Community area. In response to Council Member Nakanishi, Assistant EU Director Price provided information regarding the confidentiality of the organizations currently receiving the discount and the total value of the discount. In response to Mayor Yepez, City Attorney Lucchesi stated the creation of a similar program for the private sector for companies which are relocating to Lodi would fall under the purview of the Economic Development Director. Assistant EU Director Price further provided information regarding the Economic Development Rate, the New Business Discount, and the New Jobs Discount. Mayor Yepez opened the public hearing for public comment at 8:11 p.m. There being no public comments, Mayor Yepez closed the public hearing at 8:11 p.m.
  91. 65 Mayor Pro Tempore Hothi made a motion, second by Council Member Craig-Hensley, to waive the first reading and introducing 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). 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
  92. 68 Interim City Manager Lindsay stated that Economic Development Director Luis Aguilar is prepared to provide a PowerPoint presentation regarding the Lodi Economic Development Strategic Plan, however, at one-on-one meetings with Council Members this week, it appears Council may wish to continue this item to March 4. He noted the consultant has made travel plans to attend the March 4 Council meeting. Council Member Craig-Hensley stated her preference would be to receive the PowerPoint presentation, in the interest of providing the information to the public, and to evaluate any public comment for the need to continue the item to March 4. Mayor Yepez concurred with Council Member Craig-Hensley's recommendation, in the interest of providing the opportunity for more public engagement. Economic Development Director Aguilar provided a PowerPoint presentation regarding the Lodi Economic Development Strategic Plan (EDSP). Specific topics of discussion included background; introduction of Economic Development Ad Hoc Committee; consultant team of The Natelson Dale Group, Inc., Economic Growth Strategies, and RRM Design Group; process; stakeholder engagement; SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) summary; regional context for economic development in Lodi; highlights of North Valley Thrive Strategic initiatives; potential target industries; eight strategy categories of EDSP; EDSP implementation; Action Plan highlights; key partnerships; and EDSP performance metrics. Council Member Craig-Hensley commended Economic Development Director Aguilar, the steering committee, and the consultants on the thorough plan. Council Member Bregman spoke regarding the loss of local businesses in the past due to the lack of an Economic Development staff, the importance of the performance metrics, the mindset of pursuing new businesses and maintaining current businesses, and the good work of the Economic Development Committee. Mayor Yepez spoke regarding the progress the City is making with this plan and the need for the City to be more customer friendly. Mark Chandler, Chair of the Economic Development Committee, spoke regarding the well-done plan, opportunities for growth higher level jobs in agriculture, and support of the Economic Development Committee remaining for the implementation phase of the EDSP. City Clerk Nashed stated Council could make a motion and vote on either continuing the item to the March 4 agenda or accepting the plan. Council Member Craig-Hensley spoke regarding the importance of maintaining the ad hoc committee, partnership with the Lodi Chamber of Commerce, and her support of moving forward with acceptance of the plan.
  93. 69 Council Member Craig-Hensley made a motion, second by Council Member Bregman, to adopt Resolution No. 2026-27 adopting the Lodi Economic Development Strategic Plan. 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
  94. 71 Economic Development Director Aguilar provided a presentation regarding extending the term of the Economic Development Ad-Hoc Committee for an additional year. Specific topics of discussion included recent expiration of the committee's term, the committee's recommendation to extend the term for at least one additional year to oversee the implementation of the plan, return in the future regarding a economic development-related committee, and recommendation. In response to Mayor Pro Tempore Hothi, Economic Development Director Aguilar provided information regarding the expiration of the committee term before the adoption of the Economic Development Strategic Plan (EDSP) and the Downtown Specific Plan, which is directly related to the EDSP, and the recommendation of current members to continue the committee. Council Member Craig-Hensley expressed agreement with the two plans being directly related and stated she would like to see the ad-hoc committee comment on the Downtown Specific Plan in areas in which it overlaps with the EDSP. Mayor Yepez stated that he felt that Council Member Bregman should focus on the Downtown Specific Plan as it encompasses more of his district. He further stated that Economic Development aligns more closely with his background, so he should be involved with the EDSP. In response to Mayor Yepez, Council Member Bregman stated he was happy to give up his spot on the Economic Development Ad-Hoc Committee but felt it was something that he should have mentioned in advance. JP Doucette, President of the Lodi Chamber of Commerce, thanked Council for adoption of the Economic Development Strategic Plan and spoke regarding the importance of the implementation, his support for the continuance of the ad-hoc committee, the integration of all of the planning documents that are in progress, and the continued engagement of all of the people who have been involved in the EDSP to maintain momentum.
  95. 72 Council Member Craig-Hensley made a motion, second by Council Member Bregman, to adopt Resolution No. 2026-28 extending the term of the Economic Development Ad-Hoc Committee for an additional year, with Council Member Bregman ceding his seat to Mayor Yepez. 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
  96. 74 Mayor Yepez provided a presentation regarding the formation of a City Council Ad Hoc Committee to review and make recommendations on the City’s delivery of services to the community. Specific topics of discussion included the Council priority of creating a business-friendly environment; proposed group of two Council Members with people from the community to look at problems, such as how to make the permitting process more efficient; implementation of a customer service matrix for all City departments; ad-hoc committee with a term of eight months; and recommendation for improvement to be brought to Council. Council Member Nakanishi suggested having the Mayor and Mayor Pro Tempore as the two committee members. Council Member Bregman suggested either Council Member Craig-Hensley or himself as being on the committee, due to their experience as business and property owners. Council Member Craig-Hensley stated she felt she needed to step back from this committee as she is too invested in a personal and professional standpoint. Mayor Pro Tempore Hothi stated he was happy to defer to Council Member Bregman. City Clerk Nashed clarified that Mayor Yepez has requested that staff bring an item to a future agenda for the formation of an ad-hoc committee. JP Doucette, President of the Lodi Chamber of Commerce, spoke in favor of the formation of the ad-hoc committee and offered assistance in providing information on similar efforts. Mayor Yepez noted that the Lodi Chamber of Commerce is listed as one of the partners to be represented on the committee and asked that the complete staff report be forwarded to Mr. Doucette and Council. Interim City Manager Lindsay provided information regarding the item that will be presented to Council on a future agenda. In response to Council Member Craig-Hensley, City Attorney Lucchesi confirmed that a motion was not needed and there is a consensus to bring this item back for further consideration.
  97. 76 This item was pulled at the request of staff. Interim City Manager Lindsay stated that the union had requested more time to finalize the MOU.
  98. 78 Interim Human Resources Manager Cristina Gonzales provided a presentation regarding the Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Lodi and the Lodi City Mid-Management Association for the period January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2028. Specific topics of discussion included background, three-year term, a 3% one-time off-salary schedule payment, equity increases for classifications deemed below market; classifications deemed over market to be Y-rated, cost of living increases, increase in City contribution for medical premium, longevity pay, bilingual pay increase, temporary upgrade increase, elimination of CalPERS cost-sharing contribution, implementation of California State Disability coverage, and staff recommendation. Council Member Nakanishi stated Council has spent a lot of time reviewing this item and is happy to be able to raise employee compensation. In response to Council Member Craig-Hensley, Interim Human Resources Manager Gonzales confirmed that information contained in the Blue Sheet had been included in the presentation.
  99. 79 Mayor Pro Tempore Hothi made a motion, second by Mayor Yepez, to adopt Resolution No. 2026-29 approving the Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Lodi and the Lodi City Mid-Management Association for the period January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2028. 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
  100. 81 Interim City Manager Lindsay provided a presentation regarding the definition of benefits and approval of benefit modifications and compensation for unrepresented Mid-Management and General Service employees. Specific topics of discussion included benefit package mirroring what the other units received, item combines both the mid-management and general services unrepresented employees, consistent with other bargaining groups to include CalPERS cost sharing, 90% medical premium sharing, alignment with compensation study and COLA. In response to Council Member Craig-Hensley, Interim City Manager Lindsay provided information regarding funding. Council Member Craig-Hensley spoke regarding the choice of comparative cities for future compensation studies. Interim City Manager Lindsay stated that the cities are established through negotiation and cannot change through the term of the current MOUs. In response to Council Member Nakanishi, Interim City Manager Lindsay provided information regarding the selection of cities for the compensation studies. In response to Mayor Yepez, Interim City Manager Lindsay provided information regarding the number of employees in the unrepresented groups.
  101. 82 Mayor Pro Tempore Hothi made a motion, second by Council Member Craig-Hensley to adopt Resolution No. 2026-30 defining benefits and approving benefit modifications and compensation for unrepresented Mid-Management and General Service employees. 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
  102. 84 Interim Human Resources Manager Cristina Gonzales provided a presentation regarding Side-Letter Agreements between the City of Lodi and Local 1245 International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. Specific topics of discussion included term of current MOU; Side Letter No. 1: amendment to benefits to include a cafeteria plan, increase of City's contribution for medical premiums, elimination of CalPers cost-sharing contribution, and agreement that the City will not be implementing a health reimbursement plan; Side Letter No. 2: Inclusion of the Apprentice Substation Technician position that was omitted from the MOU as a result of a scriveners error; and staff recommendation. Council Member Nakanishi commended Electric Utility Director Jeff Berkheimer on the performance of his crews.
  103. 85 Council Member Nakanishi made a motion, second by Council Member Craig-Hensley, to adopt Resolution No. 2026-31 approving Side-Letter Agreements between the City of Lodi and Local 1245 International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. 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
  104. 87 JP Doucette, President of the Lodi Chamber of Commerce, spoke regarding the long-range finance forecasting tool that was presented last year during the mid-year budget process, and he noted that he would be interested in the results produced by the tool in regard to the impact of the new salary ranges. Council Member Craig-Hensley made a motion, second by Mayor Yepez, to move Items G.8 through G.15 to the March 4, 2026 agenda. 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
  105. 89 JP Doucette, President of the Lodi Chamber of Commerce, spoke regarding the long-range finance forecasting tool that was presented last year during the mid-year budget process, and he noted that he would be interested in the results produced by the tool in regard to the impact of the new salary ranges. Council Member Craig-Hensley made a motion, second by Mayor Yepez, to move Items G.8 through G.15 to the March 4, 2026 agenda. 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
  106. 91 JP Doucette, President of the Lodi Chamber of Commerce, spoke regarding the long-range finance forecasting tool that was presented last year during the mid-year budget process, and he noted that he would be interested in the results produced by the tool in regard to the impact of the new salary ranges. Council Member Craig-Hensley made a motion, second by Mayor Yepez, to move Items G.8 through G.15 to the March 4, 2026 agenda. 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
  107. 93 JP Doucette, President of the Lodi Chamber of Commerce, spoke regarding the long-range finance forecasting tool that was presented last year during the mid-year budget process, and he noted that he would be interested in the results produced by the tool in regard to the impact of the new salary ranges. Council Member Craig-Hensley made a motion, second by Mayor Yepez, to move Items G.8 through G.15 to the March 4, 2026 agenda. 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
  108. 95 JP Doucette, President of the Lodi Chamber of Commerce, spoke regarding the long-range finance forecasting tool that was presented last year during the mid-year budget process, and he noted that he would be interested in the results produced by the tool in regard to the impact of the new salary ranges. Council Member Craig-Hensley made a motion, second by Mayor Yepez, to move Items G.8 through G.15 to the March 4, 2026 agenda. 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
  109. 97 JP Doucette, President of the Lodi Chamber of Commerce, spoke regarding the long-range finance forecasting tool that was presented last year during the mid-year budget process, and he noted that he would be interested in the results produced by the tool in regard to the impact of the new salary ranges. Council Member Craig-Hensley made a motion, second by Mayor Yepez, to move Items G.8 through G.15 to the March 4, 2026 agenda. 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
  110. 99 JP Doucette, President of the Lodi Chamber of Commerce, spoke regarding the long-range finance forecasting tool that was presented last year during the mid-year budget process, and he noted that he would be interested in the results produced by the tool in regard to the impact of the new salary ranges. Council Member Craig-Hensley made a motion, second by Mayor Yepez, to move Items G.8 through G.15 to the March 4, 2026 agenda. 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
  111. 101 JP Doucette, President of the Lodi Chamber of Commerce, spoke regarding the long-range finance forecasting tool that was presented last year during the mid-year budget process, and he noted that he would be interested in the results produced by the tool in regard to the impact of the new salary ranges. Council Member Craig-Hensley made a motion, second by Mayor Yepez, to move Items G.8 through G.15 to the March 4, 2026 agenda. 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
  112. 103 Interim City Manager Lindsay provided a presentation regarding the appointment of an Interim City Manager candidate, a retired PERS annuitant, at a rate of $140 per hour, not to exceed 960 hours in a fiscal year. Specific topics of discussion included approval of the agreement by the candidate, need for Council approval for staff to execute the agreement, rate, limit of 960 hours per fiscal year, start date, continuance of agreement until a permanent City Manager starts. Council Member Nakanishi spoke regarding the choice of a retired annuitant over current department heads. In response to Council Member Craig-Hensley, City Attorney Lucchesi clarified that the item includes execution of the Employment Agreement.
  113. 104 Council Member Craig-Hensley made a motion, second by Mayor Pro Tempore Hothi, to adopt Resolution No. 2026-32 appointing an Interim City Manager candidate, a Retired PERS Annuitant, at a rate of $140 per hour and not to exceed 960 hours in a fiscal year. 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
  114. 107 Council Member Nakanishi made a motion, second by Mayor Pro Tempore Hothi (following reading of the title) to waive reading of the ordinance in full and adopt and order to print Ordinance No. 2044 entitled, "An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Lodi Amending Lodi Municipal Code Chapter 15.44 “Off-Site Improvements and Dedications,” by Updating Section 15.44.040 “Exemption or Deferment," which was introduced at a regular meeting of the Lodi City Council held January 7, 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
  115. 109 Council Member Craig-Hensley made a motion, second by Mayor Pro Tempore Hothi, (following reading of the title) to waive reading of the ordinance in full and adopt and order to print Ordinance No. 2045 entitled, "An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Lodi Amending Lodi Municipal Code Chapter 2.12 “City Manager” by Revising Section 2.12.050 “Removal," which was introduced at a regular meeting of the Lodi City Council held January 7, 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
  116. 111 There being no further business to come before the City Council, the meeting was adjourned at 9:32 p.m.