March 21, 2025 — The Clovis City Council meeting of March 17, 2025, commenced at 6:01 PM, with Mayor Mouanoutoua presiding over a session that addressed a wide range of community concerns, a contentious school expansion proposal, and the critical allocation of Measure Y funds. The meeting began with a solemn Pledge of Allegiance, led by Councilmember Ashbeck, followed by a roll call confirming the presence of all council members.
The initial public comment period served as a vital channel for direct engagement between the council and the community. Eric Rollins, a resident of District One, invited the council to the National Vietnam Veterans Day ceremony and expressed disappointment over the allocation of Measure Y funds, noting a shortfall in the promised 80% for police and fire services. Ryan Parsley and Cody Sturges of Reborn Brewing Company addressed communication challenges with the city and requested a waiver for permit fees. Bill Scott sought clarification on consent calendar items and closed session topics, while Steve Trevino proposed renaming city districts after historical neighborhoods. Belva Mays and Leticia Everett voiced concerns about Measure Y fund distribution and alleged police harassment, respectively.
Following public comments, the council moved to the consent calendar, with Bill Scott raising further concerns about city position allocations. The focus then shifted to the public hearing on Valley Crescent School’s proposed expansion. Marissa Parker from city staff presented the expansion plans, which included a new classroom building and relocated basketball court.
The discussion quickly centered on traffic flow, noise levels, and neighborhood impact. Council members questioned the traffic impact analysis, focusing on the single ingress/egress point, potential congestion, and safety. Noise analysis and mitigation strategies were also scrutinized, with concerns raised about measurement locations, methodology, and the potential for noise levels to exceed city limits. Privacy and aesthetic impacts of the new building were also debated.
Todd Valeri, representing appellant Dr. Reid Van Wagon, reiterated neighborhood concerns about traffic, noise, and the scale of the expansion. He criticized the lack of engagement and demanded a 300-student cap, among other mitigation measures. Supporters of the school countered these arguments, emphasizing the school’s positive impact and compliance with regulations.
Orlando Ramirez, representing Valley Crescent School, responded with proposed mitigation measures, including noise reduction strategies, traffic management plans, and privacy enhancements. Council members deliberated, with varying opinions on the scale of the expansion and the effectiveness of proposed mitigations. Councilmember Bessinger recommended continuing the conditional use permit (CUP) for further discussions, while others suggested compromises and alternative solutions, such as a smaller expansion or a search for a future larger campus.
The council then transitioned to discussing the 2025-2026 budget priorities and the allocation of Measure Y funds. City Manager Andy Haussler and Finance Director Jay Schengel presented the five-year forecast, Measure Y revenue projections, and proposed budget priorities, emphasizing public safety as the primary focus.
Council members raised concerns about the reliability of revenue projections, particularly the $26 million Measure Y figure. One councilmember advocated for a more conservative approach, citing potential economic downturns. The council discussed the breakdown of Measure Y funds, reserve goals, and the balance between public safety and other essential services.
The discussion continued, concerns were voiced about overestimating revenue and the potential for long-term budget shortfalls. Staff emphasized the buffers included in the budget, such as reserves for emergencies and fiscal sustainability. The council clarified that the budget figures included both the city’s regular budget and Measure Y funds.
A mathematical error in the fire department’s budget calculations was identified and corrected. The council clarified the distinction between Measure Y funds and the city’s regular budget, confirming that Measure Y funds were intended to protect existing services and fund expansions. City Manager Hall sought and received confirmation from the council on the proposed budget targets.
Public comments continued, with Eric Rollins and Brian Wilson expressing support for the percentage-based allocation of Measure Y funds. Bill Scott raised concerns about potential union negotiations and the need for fiscal restraint.
The meeting highlighted the council’s commitment to engaging with the public, addressing community concerns, and making informed decisions on critical city matters. The Valley Crescent School expansion proposal sparked a detailed discussion on balancing growth with neighborhood impact. The council’s focus on fiscal prudence and the responsible allocation of Measure Y funds underscored their commitment to maintaining essential services while planning for potential economic challenges. The council’s goal to not over promise, and under deliver was a common theme.