Lodi City Council Meeting - January 7, 2026
City of Lodi Regular Council Meeting
Location: Carnegie Forum, 305 West Pine Street, Lodi, CA 95240
Regular Session: 7:00 PM
Overview Summary
The January 7, 2026 City Council agenda represents a substantial municipal governance session encompassing infrastructure maintenance, regulatory compliance, code modernization, and community investment. The meeting features 21 action items across multiple categories: one presentation recognizing community support, ten consent calendar items totaling approximately $882,786 in contractual obligations, two public hearings addressing municipal code amendments, and three ordinance adoptions addressing utility services, animal control, and comprehensive building code updates.
The agenda reflects the City's strategic priorities in infrastructure investment, fiscal transparency, public well-being, and regulatory compliance. Notably, the consent calendar includes an emergency declaration for critical heating system replacement at the Police Station, demonstrating responsive municipal management, while the ordinances section introduces the 2025 California Building Code suite—a triennial regulatory update affecting all construction activities citywide.
Agenda Items Summary
| Category | Item Count | Financial Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Presentations | 1 | $5,000 (Community Grant) |
| Consent Calendar | 10 | $882,786 |
| Public Hearings | 2 | Regulatory |
| Ordinances | 3 | Policy Updates |
| Total | 16 | $887,786+ |
Section B: Presentations
B.1: Non-Profit Allocation to Wrestling Booster Club of Tokay High
Amount: $5,000
Presenter: Mayor Pro Tempore Mikey Hothi
Purpose: Ceremonial presentation of allocation check from District 5 Non-Profit Fund
Background
On December 3, 2025, the City Council adopted Resolution 2025-209 approving the allocation to the Wrestling Booster Club of Tokay High, finding that the proposal complies with the Non-Profit Fund Policy and provides public benefit to Lodi residents. The funding supports youth athletic programs and community engagement initiatives.
Strategic Alignment
Strategic Vision 8B: Public Well-Being—Partner with entities providing outreach, education, and activities engaging diverse cultures and communities.
Accountability
The Wrestling Booster Club must provide quarterly reports to the City Clerk documenting fund utilization throughout the project lifecycle.
Section C: Consent Calendar Items
The consent calendar contains ten routine administrative items totaling $882,786 in combined contractual obligations, focusing on utility infrastructure, facility maintenance, stormwater compliance, and park acceptance. These items are considered routine and will be acted upon by one motion without separate discussion unless pulled by a Council member or member of the public.
C.1: Substation Maintenance & Inspection Agreement
Contractor: Substation Solutions LLC, Woodland, CA
Term: Five years
Amount: $278,000
Scope of Services
- SF6 (sulfur hexafluoride) leak inspection and testing on aging high-voltage circuit breakers
- Annual substation transformer testing
- Transformer and high-voltage oil breaker analysis for equipment quality-of-life assessment
- Staff training on transformer testing and partial discharge inspections
Rationale for Selection
Testing equipment costs exceed $100,000 per unit, making contracted services more economical than capital equipment purchases. Substation Solutions LLC was selected based on reliable field technicians, proximity to Lodi, and proven utility experience, including successful SF6 gas removal on two circuit breakers—a high-risk procedure.
Procurement Method
Engineering services consultants are exempt from competitive bidding per Lodi Municipal Code Section 3.20.075(2). Prior experiences with other vendors resulted in inconsistent field technician performance, making this specialized contractor essential.
Strategic Vision & Funding
Vision: 5A (Infrastructure: Invest in innovative infrastructure with high Return of Investment)
Funding: Fiscal Year 2025/26 Account No. EUCP.23001.Contracts; future years included in annual budget planning
C.2: Parking Structure Stair Re-sealing Project
Contractor: Waterproofing Associates, Inc., Lodi (Second Lowest Bidder)
Amount: $76,980
Project Location: Lodi Transit Station Parking Structure
Project Scope
Addresses deteriorated concrete sealant at the Transit Station parking structure stairs, which is failing and allowing water intrusion into the World of Wonder's classroom space below. Project will reduce annual maintenance costs and claims associated with water damage.
Bidding Analysis
| Bidder | Location | Bid Amount | Variance from Estimate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineer's Estimate | — | $60,000 | — |
| Paine Construction | Rio Linda | $35,000 | -41.7% |
| Waterproofing Associates | Lodi | $76,980 | +28.3% |
Action Taken
Return bid to Paine Construction due to substantial bidding error confirmed by contractor. The 41.7% variance below estimate and dramatic difference from second bidder indicated a major calculation error. Staff contacted Paine Construction, which confirmed the error and requested withdrawal. Award contract to second lowest bidder, Waterproofing Associates, Inc.
Strategic Vision & Funding
Vision: 5C (Infrastructure: Address deferred maintenance)
Funding Source: Transportation Development Act (TDA), PWTR-26003: $85,000 budgeted
C.3: Emergency Police Station Boiler Replacement
Contractor: ICR Refrigeration, Inc., Lodi (Amendment No. 6 to existing on-call HVAC contract)
Amendment Amount: $120,000
Total Contract Value (after amendment): $1,390,000
Emergency Declaration & Timeline
- December 12, 2025: Second boiler heating Police Station and Courthouse fails unexpectedly
- Background: First boiler had been inoperable for approximately one year; both were scheduled for spring 2026 replacement via Capital Improvement Project (CIP)
- Initial Assessment: Facilities staff determined boiler not repairable
- Immediate Action: ICR Refrigeration sourced replacement options with short lead times
- Final Decision: Selected high-efficiency units with 1-week lead time (only $6,100 more than standard efficiency with 3-week lead time)
- Installation Strategy: Replaced both boilers simultaneously for 5% cost savings and minimal operational disruption
Interim Measures & Impact
Facilities staff purchased portable heaters for occupied areas. However, the jail could not maintain the legally required 68°F minimum temperature and had to temporarily close. Electrical system modifications enabled installation of larger heaters to reopen the jail prior to new boilers being installed.
Emergency Justification
Meets City Purchasing Policy definition: "unforeseen circumstance calling for immediate action to procure equipment to make repairs, safeguard lives or property, or maintain public health or welfare due to imminent or actual failure of any plant, equipment, or structure"
Financial Context
The approved Boiler Replacement CIP ($145,000) was allocated for Carnegie Forum, Library, and Police Station boilers. Staff will request an additional $40,000 at mid-year budget to complete remaining CIP work. At time of emergency, ICR's contract had approximately $90,000 available; staff utilized that on-call HVAC contract for rapid resolution.
Strategic Vision
Vision: 5C (Infrastructure: Address deferred maintenance)
C.4: Gateway South Neighborhood Park Acceptance
Action: Accept public improvements and authorize Landscape Maintenance Agreement execution
Location: Gateway South Subdivision Unit No. 3, west of Lower Sacramento Road and south of Century Boulevard
Development Context
- Part of: Gateway South Subdivision within Community Facilities District (CFD) 2007-01
- Progress: Approximately 280 of 560 homes completed (50%)
- CFD Revenue: City collects $610 per home annually via CFD property taxes (typically one year after home sale)
- Projected Annual Revenue: $340,000 when subdivision complete
Park Features
- Playground structures (ages 2-5 and 5-12 equipment)
- Swing set and climbing structures
- Pickleball courts
- Fitness area with outdoor exercise equipment
- Gazebo and covered picnic area
- Landscaped planting areas
- Turf areas with seating
- Restroom facility
- Bike racks and benches
Maintenance Agreement
Developer maintains park landscape for three years per subdivision Conditions of Approval. Developer provided three-year maintenance bond securing required maintenance work.
Strategic Vision & Fiscal Impact
Vision: 5E (Infrastructure: Proactive infrastructure development for Sphere of Influence & growth areas)
Fiscal Impact: Long-term maintenance costs offset by CFD No. 2007-1 proceeds
C.5: Stormwater Support Services Amendment
Contractor: WGR Southwest, Inc., Los Alamitos
Amendment No. 2 Amount: $81,806
Total Contract Value: $298,574
New Expiration Date: December 31, 2026
Regulatory Context
Stormwater discharges from Lodi are regulated under State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) General Permit, known as Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4), effective since 2013. Failure to comply may result in additional monitoring fees or monetary fines.
Scope of Services
- Construction inspections for stormwater compliance
- Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) reviews
- Trash Management Program assistance
- Pyrethroid (pesticide) Management Program assistance
- New/renewed Phase II MS4 Permit implementation support (expected 2026 release)
Contract History
- December 7, 2022: Original two-year agreement with two one-year extension options for NPDES Permit Compliance
- December 4, 2024: Amendment No. 1 extended term through 2025
- Current amendment: Extends through December 31, 2026
Strategic Vision & Funding
Vision: 8 (Public Well-Being)
Funding Source: Storm Drain Operating (53053005.72450): $81,806
C.6: Animal Shelter Construction Management Extension
Contractor: Bickford Ventures Inc., dba Division 01 Construction Management Services, Lodi
Amendment No. 2: Time extension only (no additional funding)
New Expiration Date: May 31, 2026
Purpose
Correct administrative oversight in Amendment No. 1 (approved December 3, 2025), which provided funding through construction completion but inadvertently omitted necessary time extension beyond original September 30, 2025 expiration. Original agreement approved June 5, 2024, for project management services, quality assurance testing, special inspection, and related laboratory services for Animal Shelter project.
Strategic Vision
Vision: 5C (Infrastructure: Address deferred maintenance)
C.7: White Slough Water Pollution Control Facility Amendment
Contractor: Carollo Engineers, Inc., Walnut Creek
Amendment No. 4: Extends term through November 30, 2025 (retroactive; no additional funding)
Project: Progressive Design Build Construction Documents for Solids Handling Equipment Procurement and Installation
Purpose
Authorize payment for services rendered October-November 2025 after contract expired September 30, 2025, due to minor construction phase delays. Construction contract was accepted by Council on November 5, 2025. Amendment provides project close-out assistance and record (as-built) drawings.
Contract History
- April 15, 2020: Original agreement ($162,500; expires September 30, 2021)
- September 22, 2021: Amendment No. 1 added final design ($110,922; total $273,422; expires September 30, 2022)
- November 1, 2022: Amendment No. 2 added construction administration ($170,000; total $443,422; expires September 30, 2023)
- June 27, 2024: Amendment No. 3 extended to September 30, 2025
- Current amendment: Extends to November 30, 2025 for project close-out
Strategic Vision
Vision: 5C (Infrastructure: Address deferred maintenance)
C.8: Accept On-Call Well and Pump Repair Improvements
Action: Accept completed improvements under contract for on-call well and pump repair services. Project provides essential maintenance for City's water delivery systems and utility infrastructure.
C.9: Accept 2025 Extruded Traffic Stripes Improvements
Action: Accept completed improvements for 2025 traffic striping project throughout City streets and intersections. Includes exhibit map showing striping locations and before/after photographs documenting project completion.
C.10: Board and Committee Vacancy Postings
Action: Post vacancies for the following City boards and committees:
- Library Board of Trustees: Full vacancy opening
- Site Plan and Architectural Review Committee (SPARC): Expired term requiring renewal
Interested residents may submit applications to the City Clerk's Office for consideration by City Council.
Section F: Public Hearings
The City Council will conduct public hearings on the following ordinance amendments. Residents and interested parties are invited to provide public comment during these hearings.
F.1: Off-Site Improvements and Dedications Code Amendment
Action: Waive first reading and introduce ordinance amending Lodi Municipal Code Chapter 15.44 "Off-Site Improvements and Dedications" by updating Section 15.44.040 "Exemption or Deferment"
Purpose
Update requirements for off-site improvements and dedications related to development projects, including exemption and deferment provisions for certain circumstances. This amendment modernizes processes established under Chapter 15.44 to reflect current development practices and City needs.
Process & Timeline
First Reading (Waived): January 7, 2026
Expected Second Reading & Adoption: Subsequent Council meeting
Effective Date: 30 days after final passage
F.2: City Manager Removal Procedures Amendment
Action: Waive first reading and introduce ordinance amending Lodi Municipal Code Chapter 2.12 "City Manager" by revising Section 2.12.050 "Removal"
Background
From October through November 6, 2025, City Council completed City Manager removal procedures as specified in LMC Section 2.12.050. Existing code required: preliminary resolution stating removal reasons, public hearing opportunity, 30-day notice before effective removal, salary payment until effective, and majority vote of all Councilmembers. Council requested Interim City Manager survey other city codes and bring back proposed revisions for process improvement.
Proposed Changes
Key revisions based on comparative research and City Attorney consultation:
- 10-day advance written notice to City Manager before removal (reduced from 30 days)
- 90-day post-election window with Council membership change: Removal by majority vote for misconduct; removal by 4/5 vote for all other reasons
- Outside 90-day window or no Council membership change: Majority vote removes City Manager for any reason (at-will employee serving at Council pleasure)
Strategic Vision
Vision: 7A (Public Safety: Reach and maintain full staffing)
Process & Timeline
First Reading (Waived): January 7, 2026
Expected Second Reading & Adoption: Subsequent Council meeting
Effective Date: 30 days after final passage
Section H: Ordinances (Second Reading & Adoption)
The following ordinances have completed first reading and are now ready for second reading and adoption. These were originally introduced on December 17, 2025.
H.1: Ordinance No. 2035 - Energy Theft/Field Services Fee Recovery
Action: Waive second reading and adopt Ordinance No. 2035 repealing and replacing Lodi Municipal Code Section 13.20.020 "Energy Theft Diversion/Field Services Fee Recovery"
Purpose
Update utility service fees for cost recovery related to energy theft diversion, unauthorized service connections, and field service charges. Regular fee updates adjust for inflation and labor contract increases to maintain cost-effective utility operations and appropriate cost recovery mechanisms.
Strategic Vision & Timeline
Vision: 3A (Fiscal Health: Promote City's transparency & fiscal fluency)
Effective Date: 30 days after final passage (approximately February 6, 2026)
H.2: Ordinance No. 2036 - Animal Services Code Comprehensive Update
Action: Waive second reading and adopt Ordinance No. 2036 amending multiple sections of Lodi Municipal Code Title 1 (General Provisions) Chapter 1.10 "Administrative Enforcement Provision" and Title 6 (Animals)
Sections Amended
Title 1 (General Provisions): Chapter 1.10 (Administrative Enforcement Provision)
Title 6 (Animals):
- Section 6.04.030: Redemption of Impounded Animals
- Chapter 6.08: Prohibited Animals
- Section 6.12.010: License-Required
- Section 6.12.060: Vaccination-Required-Certificate-Exceptions
- Section 6.12.070: Business of Breeding or Raising
- Section 6.12.110: Animal Noise
- Section 6.12.120: Animals at Large
- Section 6.12.150: Mandatory Microchipping of Dogs and Cats
- Section 6.14.020: Sanitation of Premises
- Section 6.14.030: Removal of Animal Waste
- Section 6.14.050: Management of Cat Population; Permitted Acts
- Section 6.15.010: Definitions
- Section 6.15.020: Behavior Prohibited
Key Changes
- Mandatory Microchipping: Animals must be microchipped with current owner information prior to redemption from impound. If not already microchipped, must be microchipped before release
- Administrative Enforcement: Updates procedures for administrative hearings, appeals, and enforcement actions related to animal code violations
- Compliance Requirements: Clarifies vaccination requirements, licensing procedures, breeding business regulations, noise standards, and at-large animal restrictions
Timeline
Effective Date: 30 days after final passage (approximately February 6, 2026)
H.3: Ordinances No. 2037-2043 - 2025 California Building Codes (Seven Ordinances)
Action: Waive second reading and adopt seven ordinances adopting the 2025 California Building Code suite
Ordinances Being Adopted
- Ordinance No. 2037: 2025 California Building Code
- Ordinance No. 2038: 2025 California Existing Building Code
- Ordinance No. 2039: 2025 California Mechanical Code
- Ordinance No. 2040: 2025 California Electrical Code
- Ordinance No. 2041: 2025 California Plumbing Code
- Ordinance No. 2042: 2025 California Residential Code
- Ordinance No. 2043: 2025 California Fire Code and Green Building Standards Code
Background & Significance
California adopts building codes on a triennial (3-year) cycle. The 2025 code suite represents the state's updated construction standards incorporating the latest safety requirements, energy efficiency provisions, accessibility standards, and construction technology advances. Cities must adopt the state codes with any local amendments. Affected chapters include:
- Chapter 15.02: Existing Building Code (redlined and clean versions)
- Chapter 15.04: Building Code provisions
- Chapter 15.06: Residential Code
- Chapter 15.08: Electrical Code
- Chapter 15.12: Plumbing Code
- Chapter 15.16: Mechanical Code
- Chapter 15.18: Fire Code and Green Building Standards
Local Amendments & Key Provisions
- Board of Appeals: City Council sits as Board of Appeals for code interpretations; Building Official serves as ex-officio member and secretary; three members constitute quorum; majority of full board must concur for valid action
- Building Permit Fees: Based on valuation tables and fee schedules in ordinance
- Special Inspections - Downtown Business District: Waived fees to incentivize business location/relocation/expansion, protecting and preserving crucial economic activity and City heritage
- Violation Penalties: Code violations constitute misdemeanor punishable per Chapter 1.08; each day of violation is separate offense
- Master Plan Provisions: Residential Code master plans expire upon adoption of new triennial code cycle
Strategic Vision & Impact
Vision: 4E (Housing: Adopt standards and policies to promote housing for all economic levels)
Effective Date: 30 days after final passage (approximately February 6, 2026)
Citywide Impact: All construction, alteration, repair, demolition, and occupancy activities citywide must comply with updated codes beginning effective date. Affects building permits, plan review, inspections, and enforcement activities.
Fiscal Impact Summary
Consent Calendar Contracts
Emergency Boiler Replacement
| Category | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Substation Maintenance (5-year) | $278,000 | C.1 - Multi-year commitment |
| Parking Structure Re-sealing | $76,980 | C.2 - TDA funding |
| Emergency Boiler Replacement | $120,000 | C.3 - CIP allocation |
| Gateway South Park Acceptance | $0 | C.4 - No City cost (CFD funded) |
| Stormwater Services Amendment | $81,806 | C.5 - Storm Drain Operating |
| Animal Shelter Extension | $0 | C.6 - Time only, no additional cost |
| Water Control Facility Amendment | $0 | C.7 - Retroactive, no additional cost |
| Well and Pump Repair Acceptance | $0 | C.8 - Project completion |
| Traffic Stripes Acceptance | $0 | C.9 - Project completion |
| Board Vacancies Posting | $0 | C.10 - Administrative |
| Presentations - Non-Profit Allocation | $5,000 | B.1 - District 5 Non-Profit Fund |
| TOTAL NEW OBLIGATIONS | $561,786 | FY 2025/26 Impact |
Strategic Vision Alignment
Infrastructure (Strategic Vision 5)
- 5A: Innovative Infrastructure Investment - C.1 (Substation maintenance for electric utility optimization)
- 5C: Address Deferred Maintenance - C.2 (Parking structure repairs), C.3 (Police Station boiler emergency replacement), C.6 (Animal Shelter management), C.7 (Water Control Facility)
- 5E: Proactive Growth Area Development - C.4 (Gateway South Park completion and landscaping)
Fiscal Health (Strategic Vision 3)
- 3A: Transparency & Fiscal Fluency - H.1 (Energy Theft/Field Services Fee Recovery updates for cost recovery and rate adjustments)
Housing (Strategic Vision 4)
- 4E: Housing Standards for All Economic Levels - H.3 (2025 California Building Code adoption with local amendments promoting economic housing diversity)
Public Safety (Strategic Vision 7)
- 7A: Full Staffing Achievement - F.2 (City Manager removal procedures clarification for municipal governance)
Public Well-Being (Strategic Vision 8)
- 8B: Community Engagement - B.1 (Wrestling Booster Club support for youth athletics)
- 8: Environmental Protection - C.5 (Stormwater compliance and NPDES permit administration); H.2 (Animal Services code modernization for public health)
Public Comment Information
Accessibility & Accommodations
Accessibility Services Available
If you request disability-related accommodations or modifications, please contact the City Clerk's Office as soon as possible and at least 72 hours prior to the meeting date. Language interpreter requests must also be received at least 72 hours in advance to help ensure availability.
Olivia Nashed, City Clerk
Phone: (209) 333-6702
Office: 221 W. Pine Street, Lodi, CA 95240
onashed@lodi.gov
Solicitudes de Idiomas: Las solicitudes de interpretación de idiomas deben ser recibidas por lo menos con 72 horas de anticipación a la reunión. Llame a Olivia Nashed: (209) 333-6702
Meeting Broadcast & Livestream
Television: Meetings of the Lodi City Council are telecast on SJTV, Channel 26.
Online Streaming: Live and archived webcasts are available at www.lodi.gov by clicking the meeting webcasts link.
Social Media: Members of the public may view and listen to the open session on Facebook.com/CityofLodi
Document Availability
All staff reports and written documentation relating to each agenda item are on file at the City Clerk's Office (221 W. Pine Street, Lodi) and available for public inspection. Complete agendas and staff reports are also posted on the City website at www.lodi.gov at least 72 hours in advance of the meeting.
How to Provide Public Comment
Members of the public may submit comments on agenda items and non-agenda matters through multiple channels:
Carnegie Forum, 305 West Pine Street, Lodi, CA 95240
Meeting ID: 825 2286 8353
Passcode: 985648
Phone: 1 (253) 215-8782 or 1 (346) 248-7799
Zoom Link
councilcomments@lodi.gov
Must be received no later than two hours prior to the meeting
City Clerk's Office
P.O. Box 3006
Lodi, CA 95241
Must be received no later than two hours prior to the meeting
City Clerk's Office
221 W. Pine Street
Lodi, CA 95240
Must be received no later than two hours prior to the meeting
Note: Public comment received via email, mail, or hand delivery will be provided to the City Council and included in official meeting minutes, but will not be read aloud during the meeting. Comments on non-agenda items are limited to five minutes per person.