City of Hollister City Council Meeting

The City of Hollister City Council held a meeting on June 30, 2026, addressing several procurement and budget-related issues. Key procurement discussions included approval of the Urban Water Management Plan, which outlined water sourcing and treatment costs, with the city spending approximately $4.6 million annually on water purchases. The council approved a two-year renewal of a cannabis regulatory permit for Monterey Bay Alternative Medicine, including a waiver of $7,636 in fees due to administrative delays. The council also reviewed and approved a revised fee schedule for fiscal year 2026-27, with discussions on adjusting fees based on inflation and ensuring fees do not exceed cost recovery, emphasizing the need for public hearings on fee changes beyond inflation adjustments. Budget deliberations highlighted significant financial challenges, including structural deficits in the water fund, reliance on interfund loans from the sewer fund, and the necessity for workforce reductions and operational efficiencies. The council received updates on capital improvement projects prioritizing public safety, community quality of life, and maintenance, with a focus on grant-funded projects and in-house staffing. Additionally, the council approved participation in amicus litigation opposing a proposed federal detention facility in Gilroy. The meeting included public comments expressing concerns about water rates, staffing levels, and transparency. The council deferred final decisions on water rate increases to a subsequent meeting to allow for further public input and resolution refinement.