What happened
- Rejected new city council district boundaries based on 2020 census 4-3 (Jimenez, Martinez, McLaughlin, Willis dissenting).
- Approved joining regional public banking initiative 4-1 with 2 abstentions (Bates dissenting).
- Approved $2.7 million sewer pump station replacement at Ferry Point unanimously.
- Heard closed session evaluation of City Clerk and City Manager performance.
- Approved combining two city laws governing street work and property encroachments unanimously.
Auto-generated summary from agenda items and vote records
View official: AgendaAttendance
Governance(7 items)
Update street encroachment rules and approve city manager employment agreement
In Plain English
The city wants to combine 2 separate rule books about who can dig up or use city streets and sidewalks. The new rules would also cover private property owners who build onto public land. Additionally, council will approve Shasa Curl's 3-year contract as city manager starting April 2022 at $295,000 base salary plus benefits totaling $444,000 annually.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Combine two city laws governing street work and property encroachments
In Plain English
The city currently has separate laws for utility companies working in streets and for property owners who build on public land. This change merges both sets of rules into one chapter. If approved, all street work permits and encroachment issues get handled under the same regulations.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Votes
Approve consent calendar
7 to 0
To include the following modifications: to place a sign with information regarding the project and who to contact; a minimum 9 foot travel lane plus a 4 foot sidewalk for a one-way street and a minimum 18 foot travel lane plus a 4 foot sidewalk for a two-way street
5 to 1
Support state bill expanding racial bias protections in criminal cases
In Plain English
Assembly Bill 256 would expand California's Racial Justice Act to cover more criminal cases where defendants claim racial bias affected their prosecution or sentencing. The current law only applies to cases involving death penalty or life sentences. If approved, Richmond formally supports this state legislation that aims to address racial disparities in the justice system.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Support teachers union at 2 Summit charter schools serving Richmond students
In Plain English
Teachers at Summit Tamalpais in Richmond and Summit K2 in El Cerrito are negotiating their first union contract. Most students at both charter schools live in Richmond. The teachers want basic job protections and more support for English learner students.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Support state bill creating Office of the Mayor for Richmond
In Plain English
California Assembly Bill 1814 would create a formal Office of the Mayor for Richmond. The city currently operates under a council-manager system where the mayor has limited executive powers. If the bill passes, Richmond would gain expanded mayoral authority similar to other California cities.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Join regional public banking initiative as founding member
In Plain English
The Public Bank of the East Bay would be owned by local governments instead of private shareholders. Richmond would join other cities to study creating this bank, which could keep tax dollars local and fund community projects. Councilmember Gayle McLaughlin would represent Richmond in planning discussions.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Votes
To adopt Resolution No. 48-22 with the exception of the third resolve of the resolution that would approve Councilmember McLaughlin as a representative to PBEB
4 to 1
Adjust city council district boundaries based on 2020 census results
In Plain English
Federal law requires cities to redraw council district maps every 10 years after the census to ensure equal population in each district. The city must update its 6 council districts because Richmond's population shifted between 2010 and 2020. If approved, some residents will have a different council representative starting with the next election.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Votes
To approve Map No. 201
4 to 3
Substitute motion to approve Map No. 102c
3 to 4
Contracts(16 items)
Add $15,000 to contract for pre-employment polygraph testing of police candidates
In Plain English
The city hired Get Polygraphed Inc. in 2020 to conduct lie detector tests on police job applicants. The original $15,000 contract runs through November 2023. If approved, the contract increases to $30,000 total to continue testing new police hires.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Approve $20,000 contract with Napa-Solano SANE/SART for sexual assault exam services
In Plain English
The city contracts with a specialized organization to provide medical exams for sexual assault victims. The current contract runs from March 2022 through June 2023. If approved, the city pays $20,000 for these critical services that help victims and support criminal investigations.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Replace aging sewer pump station at Ferry Point for $2.7 million
In Plain English
The city's sewer pump station at Dornan Drive and Brickyard Cove Road needs replacement due to age and wear. Veolia Water will manage the project and hire Thompson Builders to install new pumps. If approved, the total cost reaches $2.7 million including a 15% contingency fund for unexpected issues.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Votes
To adopt resolution approving Veolia Water to manage and award contracts for the Ferry Point Lift Sewer Pump Replacement Project
7 to 0
Adopt 2 formal statements supporting state racial justice bill and local teachers
In Plain English
The first statement backs AB 256, which would expand California's Racial Justice Act to cover more cases. The second supports Unite Summit teachers who work at 2 charter schools serving mostly Richmond students. These teachers are bargaining for their first union contract with job protections and English learner support.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Approve $300,000 contract to develop Richmond Green-Blue New Deal Plan
In Plain English
The city wants to hire Appraccel LLC to create a comprehensive environmental and economic development plan. The Green-Blue New Deal would combine green infrastructure projects with job creation initiatives. If approved, the contract costs up to $300,000 and ends in October 2023.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Approve $300,000 contract to develop Richmond Green-Blue New Deal Plan
In Plain English
The city wants to hire Appraccel LLC to create a comprehensive environmental and economic plan called the Green-Blue New Deal. The contract runs through October 2023 and costs up to $300,000. If approved, Richmond gets a roadmap for addressing climate change while creating local jobs and improving neighborhoods.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Receive February investment report and approve 2 finance consulting contracts
In Plain English
The city receives a monthly report showing how much cash it has and where investments are performing. Two separate contracts need approval: $90,000 for bond advisory services through 2024, and $30,000 more for budget consulting through December 2022. If approved, total consulting costs reach $229,000 across both contracts.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Approve $90,000 contract with NHA for municipal advisor services
In Plain English
The city needs specialized financial advice for municipal bonds and debt management. NHA Advisors provides expert guidance on borrowing money for major projects like infrastructure improvements. If approved, the contract runs through June 2024 and costs up to $90,000.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Increase contract by $30,000 to implement Measure U business tax
In Plain English
The city hired Management Partners in 2021 to set up a new gross receipts tax on businesses, approved by voters as Measure U. The original $109,135 contract needs an additional $30,000 to finish the work. If approved, the total contract cost reaches $139,135 and extends through December 2022.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Approve $170,000 contract with Kaiser for firefighter medical exams
In Plain English
Richmond firefighters who handle hazardous materials need annual physical exams and immunizations to stay certified. The city has used Kaiser for these specialized medical services since 2022. If approved, the contract continues through December 2024 at a cost of $170,000 total.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Accept $360,335 county grant for hazardous materials emergency response program
In Plain English
Contra Costa County offers Richmond $360,335 to help fund the Fire Department's hazardous materials response team. This covers specialized equipment and training for firefighters who respond to chemical spills, gas leaks, and other dangerous material incidents. If approved, the county pays these costs instead of city taxpayers for one year.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Approve pool of temporary staffing agencies for 2 city departments
In Plain English
The Finance Department and Community Services Employment Division need temporary workers when regular staff are unavailable or during busy periods. This creates a pre-approved list of staffing agencies the city can hire from quickly. If approved, the city spends up to $200,000 over 3 years on temporary staff.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Approve pool of temporary staffing agencies for city vacancies and projects
In Plain English
The city struggles to fill open positions and staff special projects with regular employees. This creates a list of pre-approved temp agencies that departments can hire from quickly. If approved, the city spends up to $200,000 over 3 years to fill critical gaps.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Increase contract with Glen Price Group by $8,085 to write library grant applications
In Plain English
The city hired Glen Price Group to help write grant applications for Richmond Public Library projects. The original contract was $330,000 but needs an extra $8,085 to complete a Building Forward Library Infrastructure Program application. If approved, the total contract reaches $338,085 and extends through June 30, 2023.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Increase transportation grant funding and construction contract by $21,520 each
In Plain English
The city received additional grant money from the regional transportation agency. The extra $21,520 covers cost overruns on a construction project managed by NEMA Construction. If approved, the city's total grant funding reaches $369,371 and the construction contract reaches $107,725.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Approve $338,231 contract amendment for Richmond electric shuttle service
In Plain English
The city runs an electric shuttle pilot program funded by a state grant. Nomad Transit operates the shuttles that connect residents to the library and community centers. The contract amendment increases total spending from $1 million to $1.34 million. If approved, the city pays this extra cost as required matching funds for the grant.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Budget(7 items)
Receive monthly report on city investments and cash balances for February 2022
In Plain English
The city treasurer provides monthly updates on how much cash the city holds and where it invests surplus funds. This routine financial transparency report shows the city's financial position as of February 2022. The report tracks investments in government bonds and money market accounts that earn interest on taxpayer funds.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Accept $111,550 in grants for community centers, library programs, and transit services
In Plain English
The city received multiple grants totaling over $111,000 for various community services. PG&E provided $100,000 to create power hubs and cooling centers at Nevin and Shields-Reid community centers during emergencies. Additional grants fund library staff training, NASA educational materials, workforce development programs, and transit vouchers for low-income residents.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Accept $100,000 PG&E grant to build emergency cooling structures for extreme heat
In Plain English
The city will receive $100,000 from PG&E Corporation Foundation to construct temporary cooling centers during dangerous heat waves. These structures provide air-conditioned relief when temperatures become life-threatening. If approved, the Library and Community Services Department operates the cooling centers during extreme weather events.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Accept $100,000 PG&E grant to create power hubs at 2 community centers
In Plain English
PG&E is providing $100,000 to install backup power systems at Nevin and Shields-Reid community centers. These power hubs will serve as emergency charging and cooling stations during outages. If approved, residents can access electricity and climate control at these locations when the regular power grid fails.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Accept $25,000 library grant for staff training and community programs
In Plain English
The Bay Area Library and Information System awarded Richmond a grant to improve library services. The funding supports training for library staff, new public programs, and planning for future services. If approved, the city adds this money to the current budget without using local tax dollars.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Accept $3,550 state grant to buy NASA science kits for library programs
In Plain English
The California State Library awarded Richmond a grant to purchase NASA educational materials for library programming. The NASA@MyLibrary program provides hands-on science kits that libraries use for educational activities and workshops. If approved, the library receives the materials at no cost to the city.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Accept $250,000 federal grant for job training programs
In Plain English
The state is passing through additional federal job training money to Richmond. The funds come from the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, which helps people find jobs and develop skills. If approved, the city adds this money to its current budget to expand employment services.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Appointments(6 items)
Announce vacant seats on city boards and committees
In Plain English
Several residents have resigned from various city boards and committees. The city needs volunteers to fill these unpaid positions that advise the council on issues like planning, parks, and public safety. Interested residents can apply through the mayor's office.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Appoint David Drisdale to Oakland Airport Community Noise Forum
In Plain English
The city has a seat on a regional forum that addresses airplane noise complaints from Oakland Airport. David Drisdale would represent Richmond residents in discussions about flight paths and noise reduction measures. The forum meets regularly to review noise data and recommend solutions to airport officials.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Reappoint 2 members to Economic Development Commission
In Plain English
Diana Wear and Orrian Willis currently serve on the commission that advises city council on business and economic policies. Both members' terms expire soon and need council approval to continue. If approved, they serve another term ending March 30, 2025.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Appoint 2 new members to Workforce Development Board
In Plain English
The city fills 2 vacant seats on the board that guides job training programs. Fernando Campos joins as a labor representative and Wesley Alexander as a community representative. The board helps connect residents with employers and oversees federal funding for workforce programs.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Reappoint Valerie Snider to Shimada Friendship Commission through 2025
In Plain English
The Shimada Friendship Commission maintains Richmond's sister city relationship with Shimada, Japan. Valerie Snider currently serves on the commission and seeks another 2-year term. The commission organizes cultural exchanges and community events between the two cities.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Appoint Sahar Delijani to Human Rights and Human Relations Commission
In Plain English
The Human Rights and Human Relations Commission advises the city council on civil rights issues and community relations. The mayor nominated Sahar Delijani to fill an empty seat on the 7-member commission. If approved, Delijani serves until March 2025.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Personnel(3 items)
Evaluate job performance of City Clerk and City Manager in closed session
In Plain English
The city council will meet privately to review how well the City Clerk and City Manager are doing their jobs. These annual performance reviews are required by state law and must be conducted behind closed doors. The discussion covers job effectiveness, goals, and any needed improvements.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Approve 3-year employment agreement with new City Manager Shasa Curl
In Plain English
The city needs a formal contract with its new City Manager Shasa Curl. The agreement sets her base salary at $295,000 per year with total compensation of $444,000 including benefits. If approved, she serves a 3-year term starting April 2022.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Support state bill, announce board vacancies, and appoint 8 residents to city committees
In Plain English
The mayor asks council to support a state bill about mayoral offices and announces open spots on city boards. If approved, 8 residents join committees covering economic development, workforce training, human rights, airport noise issues, and sister city relations. These volunteer positions help advise the city on policy decisions.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Public Safety(2 items)
Approve $15,000 contract extension for police polygraph tests and $20,000 for sexual assault exams
In Plain English
The city contracts with Get Polygraphed, Inc. to test job applicants before hiring police officers. This extends that contract through November 2023 for a total of $30,000. The city also contracts with Napa-Solano SANE/SART to provide medical exams for sexual assault victims. If approved, this continues that service through June 2023 for $20,000.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Approve $170,000 medical contract for hazmat firefighters and accept $360,335 county grant
In Plain English
The city needs specialized medical care for firefighters who handle hazardous materials like chemical spills. Kaiser will provide required physical exams, blood tests, and vaccinations through 2024. Contra Costa County covers most costs with a $360,335 grant for the hazmat response program.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Infrastructure(2 items)
Approve $2.7 million sewer pump replacement and Richmond Country Club subdivision map
In Plain English
The city needs to replace aging sewer pumps at Ferry Point near Dornan Drive that move wastewater to treatment facilities. Veolia Water will manage the project and hire contractors for the work. The council also approves the final subdivision map for Richmond Country Club, allowing Meritage Homes to proceed with development.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Support funding request for Richmond Intermodal Transit Center neighborhood improvements
In Plain English
The mayor seeks council backing for a federal grant application to improve the area around the transit center. This item was postponed from a 2022 meeting and has been pending for nearly 2 years. If approved, the council formally endorses the funding request to transform the neighborhood.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Zoning(2 items)
Approve final map for Richmond Country Club housing subdivision
In Plain English
Meritage Homes wants to build a new housing development called Richmond Country Club. The city must approve the final property boundaries and utilities plan before construction begins. If approved, the developer signs an agreement to build required roads, sewers, and other infrastructure.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Receive presentation on revised Terminal One development project
In Plain English
Terminal One Development LLC will present changes to their planned project for the Terminal One site. The city council originally scheduled this presentation for March 2022 but postponed it. The presentation allows council members to hear updated plans before making any formal decisions about the development.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Housing(2 items)
Accept $4.8 million state grant to help Castro Encampment residents find housing
In Plain English
The Castro Encampment sits on a section of the San Francisco Bay Trail. This state grant funds services to help people living there move into permanent housing. If approved, the city can clear the public space and restore trail access for everyone.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Accept $4.8 million state grant to clear Castro Encampment and house residents
In Plain English
The Castro Encampment sits on part of the San Francisco Bay Trail, a public walking path. The state grant funds services to help people living there find permanent housing. If approved, the city uses the money to clear the encampment and restore public access to the trail.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.