July 27, 2026 Regular City Council Meeting

The City of Ceres held its regular City Council meeting on July 27, 2026, where several procurement and budget-related items were discussed and approved. Key procurement actions included the approval of a $2 million contract with AM Signal for a citywide intelligent transportation system modernization project, funded entirely by Measure L, which will upgrade traffic signal video detection and synchronization across 39 intersections. The council also approved a professional services agreement with Musco Sports Lighting for $248,552.84 (plus a 10% contingency) to enhance lighting at George Costa Fields, funded by the Facilities Internal Service Fund and a Turlock Irrigation District Energy Efficiency Grant. Additionally, the council adopted resolutions to levy and collect special taxes for Community Facilities Districts 1 and 2 for fiscal year 2026-27, with modest CPI-based increases. The council accepted a nearly $1 million Proposition 64 grant to target illegal cannabis enforcement and maintain a third code enforcement officer. Policy discussions included amendments to the municipal code to implement the 2023-2031 Housing Element, focusing on zoning changes to facilitate affordable housing development and compliance with state law. The council also directed staff to begin negotiations regarding the proposed annexation of the Ceres Fire Protection District into the Stanislaus Consolidated Fire Protection District, emphasizing the need to protect city revenues and service levels. Other referrals included establishing an Arts and Culture Commission, a comprehensive roads maintenance plan, and quarterly town hall meetings to improve community engagement. The meeting featured public comments on safety, maintenance, and community programs, with no significant opposition to procurement items.