12/11/2023 City Council Regular Meeting Adopted 01/08/2024
Page 1 of 9
City of Gilroy
City Council Special Meeting Minutes
Monday, December 11, 2023 | 6:00 PM
1. OPENING
1.1. Call to Order
The meeting was called to order by Mayor Blankley at 6:00 PM.
1.2. Pledge of Allegiance
Council Member Armendariz led the Pledge of Allegiance.
1.3. Invocation
Pastor Malcolm MacPhail provided the Invocation.
1.4 City Clerk's Report on Posting the Agenda
City Clerk Pham reported on the Posting the Agenda.
1.5. Roll Call
Attendance Attendee Name
Present Rebeca Armendariz, Council Member
Dion Bracco, Mayor Pro Tempore
Tom Cline, Council Member
Zach Hilton, Council Member
Carol Marques, Council Member
Fred Tovar, Council Member
Marie Blankley, Mayor
Absent None 1.6. Orders of the Day
Mayor Blankley requested that Item 2.3 be done after 2.1, followed by 2.2.
1.7. Employee Introductions
Police Chief Espinoza introduced Public Safety Coordinator Katie Povio.
2. CEREMONIAL ITEMS - Proclamations and Awards
2.3. Retirement Recognition and Proclamation for Gilroy Staff
Mayor Blankley read aloud retirement proclamations for Planner II Melissa Durkin,
Senior Planner Kraig Tambornini, and Community Service Officer Maria
Cabatingan.
2.1. Recognition of Christopher High School Student Aryan Ganesh, 2023 STEM
Winner at the Santa Clara County 2023 Synopsys Championship Science
Fair
Santa Clara Valley Science and Engineering Fair Association Board Member
accepted the recognition from the Council.
2.2. Presentation by Visit Gilroy
December 11, 2023 | 6:00 PM Page 2 of 9 City Council
Special Meeting Minutes
Visit Gilroy Executive Director Frank Johnson provided his presentation to
Council.
3. PRESENTATIONS TO THE COUNCIL
3.1. PUBLIC COMMENT BY MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ON ITEMS NOT ON THE
AGENDA BUT WITHIN THE SUBJECT MATTER JURISDICTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL
Mayor Blankley opened Public Comment. The following speakers spoke on items
that were not on the agenda:
Donald Perino discussed various topics, including local Gilroy history, tree
planting efforts, personal experiences at a dog park meeting, opinions on
international politics and historical events involving U.S. Secretaries of
State, and the need for strong American leadership in addressing global
conflicts and war crimes.
Christine West, representing the Gilroy Veterans Day Parade Committee,
expressed gratitude towards the city for its support in the successful
Veterans Day Parade, highlighting the increase in parade entries, thanking
specific city council members and staff for their contributions, and inviting
everyone to participate in the next parade scheduled for Saturday,
November 9th, despite Veterans Day falling on Monday, November 11th,
in 2024.
Abir Bhattacharyya shared his experience of a deer-vehicle collision in
Santa Teresa, raised concerns about frequent deer accidents in the area,
and suggested implementing safety measures like signage or lighting to
protect wildlife.
Robert Zepeda discussed his skepticism about a local newspaper editorial
advocating for private citizens to offer land for tiny homes to help the
homeless, expressing concerns about property rights and societal
contributions. He also highlighted an initiative called the Protect Kids of
California Act of 2024, urging everyone to read more about it and support
its inclusion on the ballot.
Mattie Scariot, Director of the Poppy Jasper International Film Festival,
reported the festival's growth with nearly a thousand submissions from 50
countries and announced plans to host 260 films in 16 venues across five
cities, highlighting a new major media sponsorship for widespread
promotion.
There being no further speakers, Mayor Blankley closed Public Comment.
4. REPORTS OF COUNCIL MEMBERS
Council Member Bracco had no report.
Council Member Armendariz reported attending various events throughout the City.
Council Member Marques reported on the Downtown Committee.
Council Member Hilton on VTA Policy Advisory Committee.
Council Member Cline had no report.
December 11, 2023 | 6:00 PM Page 3 of 9 City Council
Special Meeting Minutes
Council Member Tovar had no report.
Mayor Blankley reported on VTA Board of Directors.
5. COUNCIL CORRESPONDENCE
There were none.
6. FUTURE COUNCIL INITIATED AGENDA ITEMS
Mayor Blankley requested the Council to direct staff to propose a process for future council-
initiated agenda items, emphasizing the need for a minimum amount of information to be
provided by council members for each proposed item to ensure clarity and understanding
of what is being presented. Her request received majority support.
7. BOARD AND COMMISSION INTERVIEWS
7.1. Interviews for Open Seats on Boards, Commissions, and Committees with
Future Appointment on January 8, 2024
Council accepted the late applications that were received after the December 1,
2023 deadline and interviewed candidates.
8. CONSENT CALENDAR
Council Member Bracco requested Item No. 8.2 to be pulled from the Consent Calendar.
Mayor Blankley opened Public Comment. There being no speakers, Mayor Blankley closed
Public Comment.
8.1. Approval of the Action Minutes of the December 4, 2023 City Council Regular
Meeting
Motion: Approve the Action Minutes of the December 4, 2023 City Council
Regular Meeting
RESULT: Pass
MOVER: Fred Tovar, Council Member
SECONDER: Tom Cline, Council Member
AYES: Council Member Armendariz, Mayor Pro Tempore Bracco,
Council Member Cline, Council Member Hilton, Council Member
Marques, Council Member Tovar, Mayor Blankley
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None 8.2. Resolution of Support for Caltrans Sustainable Communities Grant
Application to Fund the City of Gilroy Greenhouse Gas/Vehicle Miles
Traveled Reduction Program
Community Development Director Goei responded to Council Member questions.
Mayor Blankley opened Public Comment.
Ron Kirkish expressed concern about the association of Vehicle Miles Traveled
(VMT) with potential new taxes, referencing a 2020 Tax Foundation report and
citing personal calculations of significant tax implications for himself and his wife.
December 11, 2023 | 6:00 PM Page 4 of 9 City Council
Special Meeting Minutes
He also expressed skepticism about government transparency in implementing
such taxes and referenced recent climate change conferences to highlight
perceived inconsistencies in environmental policy.
Motion: Adopt the Resolution
RESULT: Pass
MOVER: Rebeca Armendariz, Council Member
SECONDER: Zach Hilton, Council Member
AYES: Council Member Armendariz, Council Member Cline, Council
Member Hilton, Council Member Marques, Mayor Blankley
NAYS: Mayor Pro Tempore Bracco, Council Member Tovar
ABSENT: None Enactment No.: Resolution No.: 2023-67
9. BIDS AND PROPOSALS
9.1. Award the Purchase of a Rosenbauer Type VI Fire Engine in the Amount of
$377,179.86 Utilizing Sourcewell Tag-On Contract No. 113021-RSD
Assistant City Administrator LeeAnn McPhillips provided staff presentation and
responded to Council Member questions.
Mayor Blankley opened Public Comment. There being no speakers, Mayor
Blankley closed Public Comment.
Motion: Award the purchase of a Rosenbauer Type VI Fire Engine in the
amount of $377,179.86 utilizing Sourcewell Contract No. 113021-RSD and
authorize the City Administrator to execute the purchase contract
documents.
RESULT: Pass
MOVER: Fred Tovar, Council Member
SECONDER: Rebeca Armendariz, Council Member
AYES: Council Member Armendariz, Mayor Pro Tempore Bracco,
Council Member Cline, Council Member Marques, Council
Member Tovar, Mayor Blankley
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Council Member Hilton
10. PUBLIC HEARINGS
There were none.
11. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
There were none.
12. INTRODUCTION OF NEW BUSINESS
12.1. Selection of Mayor Pro Tempore
December 11, 2023 | 6:00 PM Page 5 of 9 City Council
Special Meeting Minutes
Mayor Blankley opened Public Comment. There being no speakers, Mayor
Blankley closed Public Comment.
Motion: Elect Council Member Marques to the position of Mayor Pro
Tempore to serve until a successor is elected.
RESULT: Pass
MOVER: Dion Bracco, Mayor Pro Tempore
SECONDER: Fred Tovar, Council Member
AYES: Council Member Armendariz, Mayor Pro Tempore Bracco,
Council Member Cline, Council Member Hilton, Council Member
Marques, Council Member Tovar, Mayor Blankley
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
12.2. Mayoral Appointments of Council Members to Serve in Regional
Representative Seats and Seats on Local Boards and Committees
Mayor Blankley opened Public Comment. There being no speakers, Mayor
Blankley closed Public Comment.
Motion: Approve representative seat assignments as determined by Mayor
Blankley.
RESULT: Pass
MOVER: Dion Bracco, Mayor Pro Tempore
SECONDER: Carol Marques, Council Member
AYES: Council Member Armendariz, Mayor Pro Tempore Bracco,
Council Member Cline, Council Member Hilton, Council Member
Marques, Council Member Tovar, Mayor Blankley
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None 12.3. Resolution in Support of “Build the Future” (Affordable Childcare)
Council Member Armendariz led the discussion on the item and responded to
Council Member questions.
Mayor Blankley opened Public Comment.
Ana Mendoza urged Council to pass a resolution for affordable childcare,
highlighting the financial struggles faced by families of varying income
levels due to high costs and rising living expenses.
Ana Rocha requested support for fellow childcare providers and expressed
concern for mothers unable to access childcare programs, which impacts
their ability to work.
Amador Leal voiced concerns about the universal pre-K program's
potential requirement to double teacher qualification units, stressing its
impact on staffing challenges and the daycare's ability to enroll children,
particularly affecting single mothers in the teaching workforce.
December 11, 2023 | 6:00 PM Page 6 of 9 City Council
Special Meeting Minutes
Elizabeth Hoiberg highlighted her 16-year commitment to helping families
access childcare subsidies and expressed concern about the
underrecognition of local providers' efforts, along with the challenges of
trespassing and break-ins at her facility.
Maria Watkins praised Tiny Tots Childcare and its owner for their significant
support in helping her access childcare subsidies, enabling her to work and
improve her situation.
Aisha Valenzuela shared her positive experience with Tiny Tots,
highlighting the efficient process of receiving subsidies through the
program and the easy recertification process, as well as her trust and
comfort with the daycare and its owner. She also read statements from
other parents who echoed similar sentiments about the ease of accessing
childcare support and the helpfulness of Tiny Tots.
There being no further speakers, Mayor Blankley closed Public Comment.
Council discussion ensued on the item. Council Member Cline proposed the
following changes to the proposed resolution:
• Title of the resolution to read as Resolution of the City Council of the
City of Gilroy Joining “Build the Future Santa Clara County” to
Advocate for Collaborative and Comprehensive Solutions to Advance
Child Care Options.
• Remove fourth paragraph.
• Remove the wording “investing in” in the sixth paragraph.
• Reword the eighth paragraph clause to read as “Whereas, broadly
accessible, high-quality child care benefits the local economy; and”.
• Reword the ninth paragraph clause to read as “Whereas, the child care
sector supports all working families regardless of race, ethnicity, or minority
group; and”.
• Remove the tenth paragraph altogether.
• Replace “Resolved” with “Therefore, be it resolved” in the 11th paragraph.
• Add the words “to the extent possible after “child care facilities” in the 12th
paragraph.
• Reword the 14th paragraph to read to “Resolved that the City of Gilroy joins
with Build the Future Santa Clara County in advocating for comprehensive
and collaborative solution that address improving accessibility to child care
for working families in our community.”
Motion: Revise the proposed wording of the draft resolution as proposed
by Council Member Cline, have staff review the revised wording, and bring
it back for the council's consideration.
RESULT: Pass
MOVER: Tom Cline, Council Member
SECONDER: Marie Blankley, Mayor
AYES: Mayor Pro Tempore Bracco. Council Member Cline. Council
Member Marques, Mayor Blankley
NAYS: Council Member Armendariz. Council Member Hilton. Council
Member Tovar
ABSENT: None
December 11, 2023 | 6:00 PM Page 7 of 9 City Council
Special Meeting Minutes
12.4. Receive Quarterly Financial Report for the First Quarter of Fiscal Year 2023-
24 (FY24) and Adopt a Resolution Amending the Appropriations for Police
Grant Funds
Finance Director Sangha provided staff presentation and responded to Council
Member questions.
Mayor Blankley opened Public Comment. There being no further speakers, Mayor
Blankley closed Public Comment.
Motion: Adopt a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Gilroy
Amending the Appropriations for FY24.
RESULT: Pass
MOVER: Dion Bracco, Mayor Pro Tempore
SECONDER: Tom Cline, Council Member
AYES: Council Member Armendariz, Mayor Pro Tempore Bracco,
Council Member Cline, Council Member Hilton, Council Member
Marques, Council Member Tovar, Mayor Blankley
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None Enactment No.: Resolution No.: 2023-68
12.5. Development of Parklet Program and Extension of Temporary Outdoor
Dining Parklet
Community Development Director Goei provided staff presentation and
responded to Council Member questions.
Mayor Blankley opened Public Comment.
Terence Fugazzi cautioned against rushing into city planning decisions that
could significantly impact local businesses. He suggested postponing new
initiatives for six to ten months to observe downtown developments and to
gather more input from business owners, emphasizing the need for
thoughtful planning and consideration of existing challenges and
commitments.
There being no further speakers, Mayor Blankley closed Public Comment.
Council directed staff to survey eating and drinking establishments along with
building owners in Downtown Gilroy (as defined 4th to 7th, Eigleberry to Railroad)
if there is an interest in building parklets if given an opportunity of the City having
a parklet program with the three criteria: the construction cost, maintenance, and
tax implications; and not extend the Temporary Outdoor Dining Parklet for Station
55.
13. CITY ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORTS
13.1. Update on Gourmet Alley Project
13.2. 2023 Year in Review
City Administrator Forbis provided City Administrator’s Report.
December 11, 2023 | 6:00 PM Page 8 of 9 City Council
Special Meeting Minutes
14. CITY ATTORNEY'S REPORTS
There were none.
15. CLOSED SESSION
Mayor Blankley opened Public Comment. There being no speakers, Mayor Blankley closed
Public Comment.
A motion was made to go into Closed Session. The motion received unanimous approval.
Mayor Blankley recessed the regular meeting at 9:34 PM.
Mayor Blankley reconvened the Council into Closed Session at 9:38 PM.
15.1. Conference with Legal Counsel – Existing Litigation; Paragraph (1) of
Subdivision (d) of 54956.9 and Gilroy City Code Section 17A.11(3)(a); Case
Names:
1. WENDY TOWNER; FRANCISCO AGUILERA; NICK MCFARLAND;
JUSTIN BATES; BRYNN OTA-MATTHEWS; GABRIELLA GAUS;
HARRY DE LA VEGA; BARBARA V. AGUIRRE; ALBERTO ROMERO;
BARBARA J. AGUIRRE; LESLEY SANCHEZ, a minor, by and through
her Guardian ad Litem Diana Galindo; and LESLIE ANDRES, a minor,
by and through her Guardian ad Litem Laura Rodriguez, Plaintiffs, vs.
GILROY GARLIC FESTIVAL ASSOCIATION, INC., a California
Nonprofit Corporation; FIRST ALARM SECURITY & PATROL, INC., a
California Corporation; CITY OF GILROY; and DOES 1 to 100,
inclusive, Defendants; Santa Clara County Superior Court; Case No.
19CV358256; Filed November 12, 2019, Fifth Amended Complaint:
July 23, 2021
2. VERONICA HENDERSON, Plaintiffs, vs. GILROY GARLIC FESTIVAL
ASSOCIATION, INC., a California Nonprofit Corporation; FIRST
ALARM SECURITY & PATROL, INC., a California Corporation; CITY
OF GILROY; CENTURY ARMS, INC.; and DOES 1 to 125, inclusive,
Defendants; Santa Clara County Superior Court; Case No.
19CV358256; Filed: October 30, 2020, Second Amended Complaint:
July 18, 2022
3. JUAN SALAZAR; LORENA SALAZAR; LYANN SALAZAR, a minor, by
and through her Guardian ad Litem Juan Salazar; EDUARDO PONCE;
and DASHA PIMENTAL, a minor, by and through her Guardian ad
Litem Eduardo Ponce, Plaintiffs, vs. GILROY GARLIC FESTIVAL
ASSOCIATION, INC., a California Nonprofit Corporation; FIRST
ALARM SECURITY & PATROL, INC., a California Corporation; CITY
OF GILROY; CENTURY ARMS, INC.; and DOES 1 to 125, inclusive,
Defendants; Santa Clara County Superior Court; Case No.
19CV358256; Filed: September 10, 2020, Third Amended Complaint:
July 27, 2021
No reportable action.
16. ADJOURN TO OPEN SESSION
Mayor Blankley reported out on Closed Session as shown above.
December 11, 2023 | 6:00 PM Page 9 of 9 City Council
Special Meeting Minutes
17. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned by Mayor Blankley at 9:44 PM.
I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing minutes were duly and regularly adopted at a regular
meeting of the City Council of the City of Gilroy on January 8, 2024.
Thai Nam Pham, MMC, CPMC
City Clerk