October 8th, 2024 — The latest Clovis City Council meeting captured a broad range of community concerns, from the significance of Domestic Violence Awareness Month to the complexities of shifting the city’s electoral structure. The evening provided a glimpse into the diverse issues facing Clovis and the council’s efforts to address them while navigating legal and social obligations.
The meeting began on a solemn yet hopeful note as the council recognized October 2024 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Council Member Basgall read a proclamation supported by local advocates and law enforcement, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in combating domestic violence and supporting survivors. Nicole Linder, Executive Director of the Marjaree Mason Center, and Dr. Laura Lopez, the center’s Housing Services Manager, provided insight into the severity of the issue in Clovis and Fresno County.
The proclamation revealed that over 600 domestic violence reports were filed in Clovis last year alone. The Marjaree Mason Center, Fresno County’s sole dedicated provider of comprehensive domestic violence support services, assisted over 8,399 adults and children, offering more than 74,000 nights of safe shelter. Dr. Lopez stressed the need for ongoing support to break the cycle of abuse, noting that Fresno County has the highest per capita calls for domestic violence in the state.
Mayor Lynne Ashbeck shared a personal reflection, recalling the opening of the Marjaree Mason Center in Clovis a decade ago and the enduring importance of honoring its namesake, a domestic violence victim. Council Member Bessinger, a former police chief and board member of the center, highlighted the longstanding partnership between the city and the organization, saying, “Without your support and your team’s work, many more people would be in a much worse situation.”
After the solemn discussion on domestic violence, the meeting’s atmosphere shifted to one of hope as the council welcomed the 2024-2025 Youth Commission. This group of 21 high school students, representing various Clovis schools, will serve as the voices of the city’s youth, engaging in civic activities, advising the council, and participating in community service projects.
Chad McKinley, the Youth Commission’s coordinator, introduced the new commissioners and outlined the year’s plans, including a tour of city facilities, involvement in the general plan update, and active participation in city events. The youth commissioners received a warm welcome and applause from council members, signaling the council’s support for fostering youth involvement in local governance.
The meeting then turned to a critical discussion on Measure Y, a public safety initiative that will appear on the November ballot. Jordan Hunter, President of the Clovis Police Officers Association, presented a compelling case for the measure, which proposes a sales tax increase to enhance police and fire services in the growing city.
Hunter highlighted the department’s struggles, noting that staffing levels have remained stagnant despite a 40% population increase over the past 15 years. “Having funding to increase personnel numbers will allow us to have more officers assigned to patrol, specialty units such as investigations, gangs, narcotics, and youth programs like drug education,” he explained.
He shared a sobering anecdote about a local gang member who described Clovis as a “safe haven” for criminals due to the city’s limited resources. Despite acknowledging the unpopularity of tax increases, Hunter emphasized the broader implications for public safety and the quality of life in Clovis.
On a lighter note, Don Watnick, a representative of CenterStage Clovis Community Theatre, spoke about the ongoing production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Watnick praised the dedication of the cast and crew, many of whom volunteered countless hours to bring Broadway-level productions to Clovis. He invited the council and community to attend performances at the newly renovated Clovis Veterans Memorial District Auditorium.
The most contentious item on the agenda was the city’s potential transition from at-large to district-based elections, a shift prompted by a demand letter alleging racially polarized voting under the California Voting Rights Act. The council expressed concerns that such a transition could undermine Clovis’ community spirit and create divisions among residents.
One council member questioned the legitimacy of the legal challenge, speculating that without a local claimant, the case’s foundation was shaky. However, the council ultimately voted, albeit reluctantly, to adopt a resolution initiating the transition, which will take effect in 2026.
“This is not a decision we take lightly,” one member remarked. “But we must consider the financial risks of contesting this claim versus ensuring that Clovis remains strong and united in the future.”
The decision was marked by a blend of frustration, sadness, and determination. Council members urged the community to remain engaged and proactive in maintaining Clovis’ identity and cohesion, even as the city navigates these legal changes.
The meeting was emblematic of the city’s ongoing journey. From confronting domestic violence and celebrating youth involvement to debating public safety funding and grappling with legal mandates, the council faced a diverse array of challenges and opportunities. As Clovis prepares for an eventual transition to district-based elections and considers new measures to enhance safety and community services, the council’s commitment to balancing legal, financial, and civic responsibilities will be critical in shaping the city’s future.