Turlock · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Turlock public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
CFD No. 3 Special Taxes and Annexation
Two ordinances cleared final reading: special taxes for Community Facilities District No. 3 (with Annexation No. 1) and zoning code updates on nonconforming structures and conditional use permits.
Measure A spending and road bond debt dispute
The annual report shows Measure A sales tax money going to roads and public safety, with a new user-friendly website presentation. Residents asked for maps showing exactly which roads got fixed.
Building permit and tax revenue dispute at 290 North Thor Street
A resident alleged a stair repair permit at 290 North Thor Street was wrongly categorized as residential repair rather than commercial new construction, suppressing property tax revenue for the city and county.
Public Comment Placement Under New Remote Participation Format
Starting July 1, council meetings must be remotely accessible, agendas translated into Spanish, and formal disruption policies adopted. Remote speakers get the same three minutes as in-person speakers.
Cannabis business tax ballot measure
Council considered sending a cannabis business tax to voters but declined 3-2. Operators were split, with some saying proposed rates are too high.
CDBG public service funding
$115,000 in federal grants go to six nonprofits providing food, shelter, housing assistance, and fair housing services to low-income residents.
FY 2026-27 city budget
The city's finances are on solid ground at mid-year: sales tax is running about $600,000 ahead of projections and salary savings total roughly $2.1 million. Amendments add a police position split between the general fund and cannabis fund.
Measure A sales tax shift to fund three firefighters
The council shifted 3% of Measure A sales tax money from roads to public safety to start hiring three firefighters for the ladder truck arriving in three to four years. Critics worried about setting a precedent of using the tax for salaries; the council added a no-overtime condition and a 12-month review.
FY 2026-2027 HUD Annual Action Plan
The council approved the city's plan for about $1.1 million in federal CDBG and HOME funds, funding home rehab for owners, grants to six nonprofits, infrastructure, and first-time homebuyer help.
SB 707 Brown Act Compliance
New state law lets the public participate remotely like during COVID. The city is upgrading council chambers for audio/video remote participation ahead of a July 1 deadline.
Senior care program funding
The city put another $300,000 in federal pandemic money toward a program helping seniors stay in their homes. It passed 4-1, with Councilmember Abram arguing the city's limited resources should go elsewhere.