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• Manteca City Council approved a resolution to place a 3/4-cent sales tax measure on the November 2024 ballot.

  September 10, 2024 8:46 pm Leave a Comment

  On July 16, 2024, the Manteca City Council approved a resolution to place a 3/4-cent sales tax measure on the November 2024 ballot.

  The 3/4-cent sales tax increase aims to address critical needs within the City and is estimated to generate between $10 – $13 million annually. The City of Manteca’s current sales tax rate is 8.25% with 1.5% allocated directly to Manteca. If a 3/4-cent sales tax measure is approved by the voters, Manteca’s new tax rate would be 9%. The revenue generated would offset General Fund expenditures, pay for additional services and programs, and rebuild the City’s General Fund reserve.

  Measure Q is aimed to:

  • Fund roadway and infrastructure repairs (including potholes).
  • Enhance neighborhood police patrols and crime prevention efforts.
  • Enhance fire protection services and maintain emergency response times.
  • Improve and increase quality of life programs and amenities such as parks, public facilities, local business support, homeless services, youth services, and other areas based on Council and community priorities.

  Should Measure Q pass, a citizen’s oversight committee will be formed to review and report on the revenues and expenditures related to the sales tax measure.

  For more information, call the City Manager’s office at (209) 456-8000, email Feedback@manteca.gov, or visit MantecaInfo.com.

  About the City of Manteca

  Manteca is a full-service City with police, fire, public works, water, trash, and sewer services.

  Incorporated in 1918, Manteca has a diverse population of 86,928. Manteca continues to grow at 4.1 percent a year. The City has 25,670 households with a median home price of $432,100. The median annual household income is $82,538.

• Manteca Needs A New Pool Complex

  July 19, 2024 5:00 am Leave a Comment

  

  Residents envision a spacious new pool complex with features to accommodate more swim lessons, team activities, lap swimming, and water polo. Desired amenities include water attractions, a lazy river, locker room showers, and lighting for early morning and evening use. Enclosing the building for year-round activities is also a priority.

  Manteca, Calif. – The demand for a new swimming pool in the City of Manteca continues to grow. Lincoln Pool, built in the 1960s, no longer meets the needs of Manteca’s expanding population. With heavy use for swim lessons, swim teams, and the addition of a water polo team, the limitations of the pool are clear. The six-lane pool, with a depth of 3.5 to 5 feet, isn’t suitable for water polo, and the high demand for swim lessons means the pool is fully booked from morning until evening during the summer months.

  “Our pool was built for a much smaller population and can’t accommodate our current needs,” said Brandy Clark, Recreation and Community Services Manager. Despite its limitations, the pool remains a vital part of the community, with sixty trained lifeguards overseeing lessons and activities.

  City residents use the pool heavily in June and July. The demand for swimming lessons exceeds the City’s ability to deliver. Four to five hundred children and adults take swimming lessons every two weeks. More than 2,500 lessons were delivered last year, and the same amount is expected this year. “Open swim on the weekends has 50 to 100 people participating,” Clark adds.

  Eric Culpepper, Recreation Supervisor, emphasized the need for year-round programming. “Lincoln Pool operates only three months a year. We aim to provide year-round options, including water polo, swim lessons, lap swimming, and water exercise.” The scorching summer temperatures and limited amenities like shade and seating further highlight the need for an upgraded facility.

  The Manteca Dolphins swim team, founded in the early 1970s, faces space constraints with its 200 members aged 5 to 18. The lack of available space forces many high-level swimmers to seek opportunities elsewhere. While three local high schools offer water polo, public access is limited due to school tournaments.

  Community Vision for a New Pool Complex

  Residents envision a spacious new pool complex with features to accommodate more swim lessons, team activities, lap swimming, and water polo. Desired amenities include water attractions, a lazy river, locker room showers, and lighting for early morning and evening use. Enclosing the building for year-round activities is also a priority.

  The estimated cost for a new pool complex is $25 to $30 million on existing city-owned land. If additional land is needed, costs could rise significantly. For context, Sacramento’s pool complex, completed in 2019, cost $45 million and took over two years to build.

   “With current budget challenges, a new pool complex is a distant goal, but we are exploring funding strategies to make that dream a reality for our residents,” said Clark.

  Swim Programming at Lincoln Pool

  Lincoln Pool is open for the summer season! See flyer below for open swim hours and fees. For information on swim lessons and family swim passes, visit www.manteca.gov or call the Recreation Services Department at (209) 456-8600.

  

• Manteca Fire: New Stations, Trucks and Repairs Needed

  July 13, 2024 5:53 pm Leave a Comment

  

  Manteca Fire Chief David Marques underscores the need for additional fire resources, stating, “Fire Station 1, built in 1965, and Station 3, built in 1985, are in dire need of replacement. These stations have issues such as leaky roofs, faulty fire doors that fall on fire trucks, and insufficient living quarters for firefighters.”

   

  Manteca, Calif. – From 2017 to 2022, the Manteca Fire Department saw a 43% rise in call volume. In 2022, it responded to 10,852 calls for service, making it the second busiest fire department in San Joaquin County. With the increase in calls for service, the City of Manteca needs more fire personnel, facilities, and equipment to ensure the safety of its residents.

  Manteca Fire Chief David Marques underscores the need for additional fire resources, stating, “Fire Station 1, built in 1965, and Station 3, built in 1985, are in dire need of replacement. These stations have issues such as leaky roofs, faulty fire doors that fall on fire trucks, and insufficient living quarters for firefighters.” Marques adds, “The stations were designed for two people but now accommodate three, with no eating area, gym, nor individual sleeping quarters.”

  

  A new fire station (Station 6) is needed in the southwest of town to provide adequate fire protection for several thousand homes and ensure response times of five minutes or less. The cost of building a new station ranges from $7 to $15 million, and the City’s current budget cannot accommodate these expenses. In the meantime, the Fire Department is addressing the issues with temporary solutions, patching up broken infrastructure, and using the current facilities until a long-term solution can be implemented.

  Fire Personnel

  Chief Marques has proposed adding nine new fire personnel to staff Fire Station 2 on Union Avenue to improve emergency response capabilities. However, funding for this request is unavailable in the current fiscal year.

  Equipment Challenges

  The City’s aging fire engines frequently require costly repairs, with some in service well beyond their recommended lifespan. Funding is urgently needed for four new engines over the next four years to ensure reliable service. The recent acquisition of an Aerial Tiller Truck featuring a 110-foot ladder underscores efforts to enhance firefighting capabilities for taller structures in Manteca.

  “Each custom-made engine takes about four years to complete. Two engines have already been ordered but not yet paid for, and two more still need to be ordered. However, funding will be required to do so,” explained Chief Marques.

  

  The annual repair budget for the fire engines is $150,000. For instance, a fire engine purchased new in 2015 recently experienced a blown engine, resulting in a $50,000 repair bill. This fire engine will be out of service for several months. Chief Marques said that it is not uncommon for the engines to be in the repair shop for an extended period, causing delays in reaching fires and people needing medical attention.

  There have been occasions where the Manteca Fire Department had no backup engines available, necessitating aid from a neighboring fire department, which could take 15 minutes or more to arrive on site.

   

  Training and Facilities

  Manteca lacks dedicated training facilities, relying on makeshift sites and neighboring cities for training opportunities. The need for a local training facility to minimize response disruptions during training sessions is paramount.

  “Additional funding is needed to bring the Manteca Fire Department up to industry standards. The department is doing everything in its power to keep the residents in the City of Manteca Safe, but this is not sustainable,” stated Chief Marques.

  

  CONTACT

  City of Manteca, City Manager’s Office

  (209) 456-8000

  Citymanager@manteca.gov

  About the City of Manteca

  Manteca is a full-service City with police, fire, public works, water, trash and sewer services. Incorporated in 1918, Manteca has a diverse population of 88,772. In the heart of California, Manteca is alive with opportunities. This family-friendly City, San Joaquin County’s third largest, is quickly approaching 90,000 residents and is the state’s 6th fastest-growing City. Manteca thrives on multiple fronts with key infrastructure and commercial, residential, and recreational developments. The City has 28,454 households with a median home price of $500,017. The median annual household income is $118,814.

• Aaron Jeffery is Manteca’s City’s Streets Manager

  June 17, 2024 6:43 pm Leave a Comment

  Aaron Jeffery,
  Streets Manager

  This is a series of articles intended to introduce to the community key members of the City’s Team of employees who serve Manteca residents through their respective positions and areas of expertise.

  

  MANTECA, Calif. — Aaron Jeffery has worked for the City of Manteca for 27 years, spending the majority of his career with the City’s Streets Division. One of the things that Jeffery appreciates about working for the City is the potential for growth and development that it offers its employees. He began his career as a maintenance worker and has since risen to the position of Street Manager.

  “I have spent most of my life in Manteca. I attended Nile Garden Elementary and Manteca High School before going on to college in San Francisco. When the Streets Division position opened, I thought if I could get the job, I would give it my all and make a career out of it.”

  So, Jeffery moved back to Manteca to be near his family. It’s where he and his wife have made their home. Both of their children, daughter Bradee and son Evan, attended Manteca schools and played sports in the community. They have since moved on to play at the college level. With both his children now playing college sports, he travels significantly to be with them. Jeffery coached several different youth sports teams when his children lived locally.

  Jeffery spent his first 18 years with the City of Manteca in the Streets Division before moving to the Water Division. He applied the skills he learned with Streets to his role in the City’s Water Division, stressing, “I was able to use my experience working underground to streamline the process for water repairs.”

  While with the Water Division, he earned specialty certifications and, as a result, after five years with the Water Division, was well-positioned to rejoin the City’s Streets Division.

  Jeffery said that when he first returned to work for the Streets Division, his goal was to increase morale, bring structure to the Division, and expand its size. However, with only eight employees, they could not meet the City’s growing needs for road repairs, and everything they did was reactionary.

  In the four years since he rejoined the Streets Division, they have increased staffing to 14 full-time employees and made the Division more proactive, which better serves the City’s street repair needs.

  The expanded team has been able to do larger paving projects, eliminate many of the large transverse cracks that run through several neighborhoods, add striping to enhance travel lanes and repair worn asphalt and concrete.

  The Streets Division has added lead positions and new equipment that allows them to complete jobs more efficiently and effectively. However, Jeffery stresses that they still need additional resources to address future needs.

  The Streets Division is responsible for maintaining more than 600 miles of sidewalks, 300-plus center lane miles of roads, street signs and markings, concrete and asphalt repairs, streetlights, and traffic signals. Jeffery and his team also respond to emergency traffic accidents and destructive weather events and temporarily close roads for special events.

  In addition to fulfilling his division duties, Jeffery also serves on several City committees, including the Traffic Solutions Team, which addresses traffic safety concerns throughout the community.

  A proud resident of Manteca, Jeffery has dedicated his life to providing the best services possible to the community he loves. “I absolutely love living and working in Manteca!” exclaims Jeffery, “and I truly appreciate the support I receive from the City Council, City Manager, Toni Lundgren, and the Senior Leadership  Team.”

  For more information, call the City Manager’s office at (209) 456-8000, email Feedback@Manteca.gov, or go online to Manteca.gov. Sign up for our e-newsletter at https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/HiHAyru/manteca.

  About the City of Manteca

  Manteca is a full-service City with police, fire, public works, water, trash and sewer services. For more information, call the City Manager’s office at (209) 456-8000, email Feedback@manteca.gov, or go to https://www.Manteca.gov.

  Incorporated in 1918, Manteca has a diverse population of 88,772. It grew at 24.4% from 2010-2020 and continues to grow at an accelerated pace. The City has 28,454 households, with a median home price of $500,017 and a median annual household income of $118,814.

• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Proposed Funding Measure on November 2024 Ballot

  May 30, 2024 1:53 pm Leave a Comment

  Updated May 29, 2024

  The City of Manteca is considering placing a funding Measure on the November 2024 ballot, asking Manteca
  voters to authorize increasing the City’s sales tax to address pressing challenges presently facing City officials.
  This FAQ is intended to be a “living” document; as such, it will be updated regularly as input is received from
  Manteca voters.

  Q: What type of funding measure is the City proposing?
  A: The City of Manteca is considering a 1% sales tax measure for the November 2024 ballot, weighing the results
  of an upcoming survey which will determine if a sales tax increase of one cent on the dollar is supported by
  Manteca voters.

  Q: Why is the City proposing to increase our local sales tax?
  A: The 1% sales tax increase aims to address critical needs within the City and is estimated to generate between
  $16 – $20 million annually. This increase is intended to be permanent and would play a vital role in funding critical
  needs and priorities for the community and tackling ongoing challenges for delivering services, particularly those
  impacted by rising inflation and higher interest rates.

  Q: How did we get here?
  A: In 2020, the City placed a general sales tax measure on the ballot that did not pass. Over the past several
  years, public presentations have been shared regarding the City’s ongoing financial constraints and challenges.
  The past shortfalls in property and sales tax have been millions in losses over the years. Over time, our assets
  have aged, which have compounded the difficulties we have today. The City is at a pivotal point where we can no
  longer defer fees or continue to place band-aids on potholes.

  Q: What is Manteca’s current sales tax rate?
  A: The current sales tax rate in Manteca is 8.25%. Of that amount, 1.5% goes to the City of Manteca. If the
  proposed 1% sales tax measure is passed, Manteca’s sales tax rate would be 9.25%.

  Q: Why a sales tax and not some other funding mechanism?
  A: The City is pursuing a sales tax measure because of the following reasons:

  • • A local sales tax provides funding that cannot be taken away by the State and will be solely used to benefit
    our community.
    • The money brought into Manteca by tourists and visitors will contribute to local sales tax revenue. For
    example, visitors who purchase gas, and frequent local shops and restaurants will help fund programs and
    services for Manteca residents.
    • Most foods (groceries), prescription drugs, personal services, and medical services are not charged sales
    tax.
    • If passed, a 1% increase in local sales tax will cost Manteca residents and consumers from outside the City
    less than one penny for every dollar spent locally.

  Q: How much will this sales tax cost consumers when making taxable purchases in the City of Manteca?
  A: The 1% increase in local sales tax will cost consumers who shop in Manteca one cent for every dollar spent.

  Q: How much revenue will this sales tax measure produce?
  A: A 1% sales tax increase will produce roughly $16 – $20 million annually for the City of Manteca.

  Q: If the sales tax measure is approved by voters in November 2024, how soon will it go into effect?
  A: Spring of 2025

  Q: What will the sales tax measure be used for?

  A: The Measure under consideration is aimed to:

  • • Enhance neighborhood police patrols and crime prevention efforts.
    • Enhance fire protection services and maintain emergency response times.
    • Street and road repairs (including potholes).

  In addition, the City needs to keep public spaces safe and clean, improve traffic flows and reduce congestion,
  maintain youth and senior programs in the City, further address homelessness in Manteca, and maintain and/or
  enhance other quality-of-life amenities and services.

  Q: What has the City done to reduce operating costs?
  A: The City has done more with less. It has cut back on all General Fund services to maintain a balanced budget
  and ensure uninterrupted services to the community. The City operates below industry trends from staffing to
  operational needs; nonetheless, it has postponed critical maintenance and infrastructure needs. City facilities and
  equipment are out of date and falling apart.

  Q: Why does the City Have a shortage of revenue with the influx of housing?
  A: While property taxes are a significant revenue source for Manteca, they are not sufficient to cover all essential
  city services. Here’s why:

  • • Property Tax Rate and Distribution: California’s property tax rate is 1%, and Manteca receives only 20% of
    this revenue for most areas. Although the total assessed value of all property in Manteca is nearly $10
    billion, generating approximately $100 million in property tax revenue, Manteca’s share is just about $13.5
    million annually.
    • Recent Changes: Even with the recent negotiation increasing Manteca’s share to 40% for new growth
    areas, the overall revenue from property taxes remains inadequate to meet the city’s growing needs.
    • For example: For a home valued at $450,000, the annual property tax is $4,500, and Manteca receives
    only $900 for general fund operations. This amount is not enough to sustain the wide range of essential
    services required by our community.

  To ensure that Manteca can continue to provide essential city services, such as public safety, infrastructure
  maintenance, and community programs, we need additional revenue. Increasing the sales tax rate is a practical
  solution to bridge the funding gap and maintain the quality of life for our residents.
  1001 W. Center Street, Manteca, CA 95337 | www.manteca.gov

  Q: Will the 1% sales tax increase end once the City’s fiscal challenges are resolved?
  A: No, this will be proposed as a permanent measure.

  Q: Assuming the measure passes, will there be citizen oversight?
  A: YES:
  • A five-member Citizen Oversight Committee will be appointed to monitor expenditures.
  • An outside audit will be conducted annually, and a report will be produced and made public.

  Q: What is the threshold of voter support needed to pass this measure?
  A: A majority of voter approval (50% + 1) is needed.

  Q: What happens if the measure does not pass?
  A: If a majority of voters do not pass the measure, the City will need to consider making significant cuts to
  community programs and services. This could mean more potholes on our roads, fewer police officers and
  firefighters, potential closures of parks, and impacts to staffing and services.

  Q: Why can’t the City use its reserves to fund its programs and services?
  A: The City’s reserves are quickly being constrained, or even depleted, and exist for one-time uses based on the
  City’s Reserve Policy. City reserves are used when faced with unforeseen emergencies, like earthquakes or other
  natural disasters.

  Q: How can I get more information?
  A: As we continue to address the fiscal challenges facing the City of Manteca, we will work hard to keep you
  informed. Please visit the City’s website, sign up for our e-newsletter, or email us at feedback@manteca.gov.

  Q: When is the 2024 election?
  A: The general election will take place on November 5, 2024. For information on voter registration and polling
  locations, visit: Registrar of Voters (sjgov.org).

• Manteca is Considering a 1% Sales Tax Measure for November 2024 Ballot

  1:41 pm Leave a Comment

  

  Manteca, Calif. – The City of Manteca is considering placing a funding Measure on the November 2024 ballot, asking Manteca voters to authorize increasing the City’s sales tax by 1% (from 8.25% to 9.25%) in order to address the pressing challenges presently facing the City.

  The basic needs that have led City officials to consider placing a funding measure on the local ballot include (i) the need to enhance neighborhood police patrols and crime prevention efforts; (ii) the need to enhance fire protection services and maintain emergency response times in the City; and (iii) the need for street and road repairs (including potholes).

  In addition, the City needs to keep public spaces safe and clean, improve traffic flows and reduce congestion, maintain youth and senior programs in the City, further address homelessness in Manteca, and maintain and/or enhance other quality-of-life amenities and services.

  If passed in the November 2024 election cycle, a 1% increase in local sales tax will cost Manteca residents, and consumers from outside the City, less than one penny for every $1 spent locally.  According to Manteca’s City Manager, Toni Lundgren, “This modest increase would play a vital role in addressing the City’s ongoing challenges; particularly those impacted by rising inflation and subsequently higher interest rates.”

  A 1% increase in the local sales tax will generate approximately $21 million, annually.  It is intended to be permanent.

  Lundgren explained that City officials are considering asking Manteca voters to authorize a modest increase in the City’s sales tax, rather than addressing the City’s fiscal challenges through some other funding mechanism, for the following reasons:

  1. A localized City sales tax provides funding that cannot be seized (taken away) by the State; thus, assuming the funding measure secures the required voter support, the revenue will remain in the City to benefit Manteca residents.
  2. This tax is paid by non-City residents, as well as Manteca residents, as funds are brought into the community from people who reside outside the community to benefit Manteca residents. For example, commuters who fuel-up at gas stations, eat at local restaurants, and shop in Manteca will help fund services that benefit Manteca residents.
  3. Most foods (groceries) and medicines (prescription drugs) are exempt from being charged a sales tax.

  Further, the City Manager points out that the City’s infrastructure is in decline due to deferred maintenance, and there is a lack of available funds for such things as the replacement of vehicles, ranging from lawnmowers to fire trucks.

  

  “We lack reserve funds; these are quickly being depleted,” Lundgren explains.  “We are using our limited reserves to pay for operating costs.  City reserves are intended to be used when the City is faced with unforeseen emergencies, like earthquakes or other natural disasters; these are one-time funds…once they are used, they are gone, forever,” she stresses.

  Over the last 20 years, the City has managed to maintain essential services as best it could, such as water and sewer treatment, as well as park equipment, “…but, these days are behind us,” Lundgren laments.

  Some residents question how there can be a shortage of revenue in light of all the new development occurring in the City.  Homeowners pay property tax annually equal to 1% of the assessed property value; with Manteca receiving 20% of that amount. Thus, for a home valued at $450,000, the property tax is approximately $4,500 per year; the City receives only $900 from these funds.

  Furthermore, revenue generated from development comes with accompanying costs for services and infrastructure maintenance. And, income from property taxes is shared with San Joaquin County. “In essence,” Lundgren explains, “the positive impact of new development on the general fund is marginal.”

  Recently, the City negotiated a new property tax agreement with San Joaquin County and their rate of new growth will be 40% of the 1% received, which will apply to new development.

  The City Manager stresses that the City does more with less. “We’ve had to cut back on all General Fund services in order to maintain a balanced budget.  We have significant deferred maintenance and major infrastructure needs. City facilities and equipment are out of date and falling apart.”

  Moreover, of the 8.25% sales tax rate presently being charged for purchases made in Manteca, the City receives only 1.5%; the remainder goes to the state, and the county. “The current rate is insufficient to fund critical needs and is causing a financial strain on the City”, says Manteca’s Finance Director Shay Narayan.

  The breakdown of the 8.25% is that approximately 4% goes to the State and 2.75% to San Joaquin County and only 1.5% goes to the City; one-third of that (.5%) goes to Measure M Public Safety Sales Tax. Measure M was passed by the Manteca voters in 2006 and funds 36 public safety positions; 18 police and 18 fire, “…which are crucial for the City,” Narayan stresses.

  

  How is General Fund Allocated: The largest portion of the General Fund (between 50%-60%) is allocated to police and fire services, emphasizing the City’s prioritization of public safety services in Manteca. The rest is distributed among various functions that contribute to the overall well-being of the community.

  

  Narayan stresses, “If Manteca voters do not authorize an increase in the local sales tax, the City will be forced to make significant cutbacks in services and programs presently being provided by and/or through the City.  Some services may have to be eliminated, altogether.  This will result in more potholes, fewer police officers and firefighters, and the reduction of other services that impact the quality-of-life Manteca residents presently enjoy.”

  Passage of such a funding measure requires simply-majority support of the voters (50 percent +1 YES vote); the revenues generated from a successful funding measure will be placed in the City’s General Fund.

  Assuming the funding measure under consideration passes, a five-member Citizen Oversight Committee will be created to monitor expenditures and recommend a spending plan. An outside audit of sales tax spending will be conducted annually; a report will be produced and made public.

  “As we continue to address the fiscal challenges facing the City of Manteca, we will keep the community informed regarding Manteca’s financial status,” the City Manager concludes.

  For more information, contact the City Manager’s office at (209) 456-8000, email: Feedback@manteca.gov, or go online to Manteca.gov. Sign up for our e-newsletter at: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/HiHAyru/manteca

  About the City of Manteca

  Manteca is a full-service City with police, fire, public works, water, trash and sewer services. Incorporated in 1918, Manteca has a diverse population of 88,772. In the heart of California, Manteca is alive with opportunities. This family-friendly City, San Joaquin County’s third largest, is quickly approaching 90,000 residents and is the state’s 6th fastest-growing City. Manteca is thriving on multiple fronts with key infrastructure, commercial, residential, and recreational developments. The City has 28,454 households with a median home price of $500,017. The median annual household income is $118,814.

• Manteca Sees 36% Drop in Crime, Calls for Sustained Support

  May 24, 2024 6:51 am Leave a Comment

  

  While overall crime has decreased despite a growing population, there has been an increase in homicides and aggravated assaults. To maintain the optimal police officer-to-population ratio and ensure peak performance, additional resources are needed.

  MANTECA, CALIF. — Recent crime statistics reveal a 36.54% reduction in overall crime in the City of Manteca from 2013 to 2023, a testament to the effectiveness and dedication of the Manteca Police Department. Despite a population increase of 23.45% during this period, notable decreases were seen in several key areas: robbery dropped by 12.6%, burglary by 50.4%, and larceny by 45.5%. Arrests also declined from 2,779 in 2013 to 1,858 in 2023.

  “Manteca has seen substantial improvements in public safety, even as our community has grown,” stated Police Chief Stephen Schluer. “These achievements reflect our commitment to keeping Manteca safe.”

  

  However, alongside these positive trends, there has been an increase in certain serious crimes. The city experienced an uptick in homicides, rising from zero to five, and aggravated assaults increased by 93.3%, from 90 to 174 cases from 2013 to 2023. Chief Schluer noted that the surge in aggravated assaults may be correlated to a nationwide rise in domestic violence cases post-COVID-19.

  “In 2013, zero homicides were an anomaly; it’s rare to have no homicides at all. Recent incidents include two domestic violence cases, a road rage incident, one gang-related case, and a fatal carjacking,” explained Chief Schluer.

  The demand for police services has also risen, with calls for service increasing by 23.4%, from 34,357 to 42,417. Despite the population growth, the rate of stolen vehicles per capita has decreased, showcasing the effectiveness of current police operations.

  

  While these statistics highlight Manteca’s success in reducing crime, maintaining and improving public safety requires ongoing investment. The Manteca Police Department currently has 78 budgeted officers, with 76 actively serving and two in the hiring process. This staffing is crucial for addressing not only traditional crimes but also emerging issues like human trafficking, mental illness, and homelessness.

  “Today’s police officers face more complex challenges that demand greater coordination, information sharing, and partnerships,” Chief Schluer emphasized. “To continue our progress, we need additional funding resources to ensure we can respond effectively to these demands.”

  A recent COPS Grant has enabled hiring five new community policing officers, with two being hired this year and the remaining three by 2026. However, this grant covers only part of the cost, and the city must supplement it with funds from Measure M and the General Fund.

  City Manager Toni Lundgren added, “The COPS grant is a valuable asset but requires a 72.5% local match. To meet these requirements and continue improving our police services and response times, securing further funding is essential.”

  

  Currently, the department is stretched thin, with more officers allocated to patrol and fewer to investigations. The investigations team has been reduced from nine to five, necessitating the dissolution of the gang unit and the reassignment of some street crime investigators to gang-related cases.

  Chief Schluer concluded, “To sustain our achievements and ensure the safety and quality of life for Manteca’s residents, we must invest in maintaining and enhancing our police force, facilities, and equipment. This investment is crucial for keeping crime rates low and continuing to make Manteca a safe place to live.”

  For more information, contact the City Manager’s office at (209) 456-8000, email Feedback@manteca.gov, or visit Manteca.gov.

  About the City of Manteca

  Manteca is a full-service City with police, fire, public works, water, trash and sewer services. Incorporated in 1918, Manteca has a diverse population of 88,772. In the heart of California, Manteca is alive with opportunities. This family-friendly city, San Joaquin County’s third largest, is quickly approaching 90,000 residents and is the state’s 6th fastest growing city. Manteca is thriving on multiple fronts with key infrastructure and commercial, residential, and recreational developments. The City has 28,454 households with a median home price of $500,017. The median annual household income is $118,814.

• Manteca’s Financial Transformation: A Story of Resilience and Progress

  April 15, 2024 5:25 am Leave a Comment

  

  Manteca, Calif, — In a transformative move towards fiscal responsibility and resiliency, Manteca has embarked on a journey of financial revitalization under the leadership of  City Manager Toni Lundgren, and Finance Director, Shay Narayan. Overcoming past challenges of late audits and financial uncertainty, the City of Manteca is now ushering in a new era of stability and prosperity.

  “Upon my arrival, we faced significant hurdles, including overdue audits and a backlog of payments to vendors,” states Narayan. “However, through innovative solutions and harnessing the talents of the Finance team, we swiftly automated purchasing and accounts payable processes, using existing technology without the need for additional funding.”

  

  Narayan emphasizes that the success achieved thus far has been a testament to the dedication and expertise of the Manteca finance team and support from the City Manager’s Office and City Council.

  “Our focus extends beyond mere numbers; it’s about fostering collaboration among departments, engaging with auditors and the public, and building a foundation for sustained prosperity,” Narayan adds.

  Recognizing the challenges stemming from organizational transitions and evolving practices, Narayan highlights the importance of leadership continuity and institutional knowledge.

  “With nearly a third of our staff joining in the last two years, it was crucial to establish clear roles and responsibilities,” he explains. To this end, Narayan appointed Lana McBroom as Acting Budget Manager, ensuring streamlined operations and effective financial oversight.

  McBroom echoes Narayan’s sentiments, emphasizing her role in driving sound financial practices and facilitating strategic planning initiatives. “Our focus remains on ensuring transparency, accountability, and efficiency in all financial endeavors,” states McBroom.

  Under City Manager Lundgren’s guidance, Manteca has prioritized comprehensive policy reform, strategic utility rate analysis, and enhanced collaboration among the Senior Leadership Team.

  “Our collective efforts are geared towards not only stabilizing our finances but also setting a solid foundation for sustained growth and prosperity,” states Lundgren.

  

  The City’s commitment to transparency and accountability extends to its annual comprehensive financial reporting, ensuring compliance with regulatory bodies and credit rating agencies.

  “Our success is rooted in the Manteca approach – a blend of diligent work ethic, community engagement, and cohesive teamwork,” Lundgren concludes.

  About the City of Manteca

  Manteca is a full-service City with police, fire, public works, water, trash and sewer services. For more information, call the City Manager’s office at (209) 456-8000, email: Feedback@manteca.gov, or go online to https://www.manteca.gov.

  Incorporated in 1918, Manteca has a diverse population of 88,772. Manteca grew at 24.4% from 2010-2020 and continues to grow at an accelerated pace. The City has 28,454 households with a median home price of $500,017. The median annual household income is $118,814.

• Meet Jose Jasso, Assistant City Manager for the City of Manteca.

  April 8, 2024 8:53 pm Leave a Comment

  

  Manteca, Calif, — With a local government career spanning over three decades, Jose Jasso brings a wealth of experience and passion to his current role as Assistant City Manager for the City of Manteca.

  Jasso’s journey began as a part-time employee with the City of Manteca in 1984 and later transitioned to full-time status in 1987. In 2016, he left Manteca and served several other cities, including Santa Clara as Assistant City Clerk and Rio Vista as Assistant City Manager and City Clerk. In 2022, an opportunity to return to the City of Manteca arose, and he was appointed Interim Assistant City Manager and later was appointed to the permanent position.

  “I came back to work in Manteca because, for me, this is my home.  My mom still lives here; my sister works for a local high school. I went to high school and grammar school here. I wanted to give back to the City that gave me so much,” says Jasso.

  As Assistant City Manager, Jasso oversees key departments including Legislative Services/ City Clerk, Human Resources, Information Technology, and Recreation Services. His responsibilities encompass a wide range of projects and tasks, from ensuring the efficient operations of City departments to providing day-to-day administrative support to the City Manager.

  Jasso has a deep-rooted connection to Manteca and enjoys working behind the scenes to help accomplish the City Council’s goals and priorities. He believes in the strength and capabilities of Team Manteca and is dedicated to implementing policies and procedures to help ensure Manteca’s success well into the future.

  Beyond his professional endeavors, he is actively involved in various organizations, including serving as the Vice President – Northern California Cities Self Insurance Fund – A Joint Power Authority; Board Member – Community Action Partnership of Solano – A Joint Power Authority; City Clerks Association of California – Past President; City Clerks Association of California – Board Member (2011-2018); City Clerks Association of California where he served as Mentor to CMC candidates and the International Institute of Municipal Clerks.

  Jasso holds an associate’s degree from Modesto Junior College and graduated with honors from the University of San Francisco with a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Behavior in 1997.

  In his leisure time, Jasso indulges his love for dogs by raising and showing miniature Schnauzers and spending quality time with family and friends.

  About the City of Manteca

  Manteca is a full-service City with police, fire, public works, water, trash and sewer services. For more information, call the City Manager’s office at (209) 456-8000, email: Feedback@manteca.gov, or go online to https://www.manteca.gov.

  Incorporated in 1918, Manteca has a diverse population of 88,772. Manteca grew at 24.4% from 2010-2020 and continues to grow at an accelerated pace. The City has 28,454 households with a median home price

• Shay Narayan, Director of Finance for the City of Manteca 

  March 26, 2024 5:20 pm Leave a Comment

  

  MANTECA, CALIF. — In the City of Manteca, a new chapter of fiscal management has begun under the guidance of Shalesh (Shay) Narayan, who assumed the role of Finance Director just six months ago following an extensive nationwide search. Tasked with a robust agenda, Narayan has swiftly navigated the city’s financial landscape, ensuring that pending audits, budgeting initiatives, and policy revisions are not just addressed but set on a trajectory for success.

  Narayan’s decision to join Manteca’s team stems from the city’s dynamic growth, offering a unique canvas for his expertise to flourish. His commitment to Manteca’s financial well-being is evident in his strategic approach, which has already begun to bear fruit.

  Narayan states, “I am excited to participate in Manteca’s new leadership and community development initiatives. As a former Budget Manager for the City of Elk Grove, I have had the opportunity to witness many community priorities being realized in a city that has seen significant growth. I look forward to contributing to Manteca’s financial future and being part of the City’s progress.”

  Under Narayan’s leadership, Manteca is witnessing a resurgence in fiscal stewardship, with a renewed focus on transparency, efficiency, and accountability. His emphasis on collaboration and communication has fostered a culture of teamwork within the Finance Department, paving the way for smoother operations and enhanced productivity.

  “It’s Manteca’s approach to reaching goals and priorities, it’s the team’s work ethic, community engagement, and staff collaboration.  It’s the bold, present, persistent, strategic, and purposeful approach to serving the public. This approach is greatly attributed to the leadership style of the City Council and the City Manager, all of whom I admire and am grateful to work for,” states Narayan.

  Moreover, Narayan’s dedication to community engagement is evident in his involvement in local boards, exemplifying his commitment to giving back to Manteca. As Manteca embraces this new era of financial stability and growth, Shay Narayan is helping to guide the city towards a brighter, more prosperous future.

  Narayan holds a Master of Science in Economics from Portland State University, Graduating in 2011, and a Bachelor of Science in Economics & Mathematics from the same university in 2009.

  About the City of Manteca

  Manteca is a full-service City with police, fire, public works, water, trash and sewer services. For more information, call the City Manager’s office at (209) 456-8000, email: Feedback@manteca.gov, or go online to https://www.manteca.gov.

  Incorporated in 1918, Manteca has a diverse population of 88,772. Manteca grew at 24.4% from 2010-2020 and continues to grow at an accelerated pace. The City has 28,454 households with a median home price of $500,017. The median annual household income is $118,814.

• Manteca’s Animal Shelter Places More Than 90% of Animals into New Homes

  March 13, 2024 8:06 pm Leave a Comment

  

  Manteca’s Animal Shelter assists in placing animals into loving homes by removing adoption fees and covering the costs of spaying and neutering. “We recognize the financial challenges many face in caring for pets,” explains Chief Stephen Schluer. “Our goal is to remove barriers and enable every willing pet owner to provide a safe and nurturing environment for their companion.”

   

  Manteca, Calif. – In a significant milestone, Manteca’s Animal Shelter proudly achieved no-kill status in 2023, marking a pivotal shift towards compassionate animal welfare practices.  A no-kill animal shelter does not euthanize healthy or treatable animals based on capacity or time constraints but rather limits euthanasia to those with severe medical conditions or behavioral issues as a last resort.

  Chief Stephen Schluer states, “We earned the no-kill distinction in 2023 because 91% of all animals that came into our facility were adopted into new homes,” Schluer explains.  “Two years ago, 47% of the animals in our care had a live outcome; we increased that to 56%, then 65%, and now we have surpassed 90%.”

  The shelter’s no-kill status was achieved through a multifaceted approach that includes proper medical care, housing, community partnerships, and proactive measures to reduce homeless animal populations such as the Trap Neuter Release (TNR) program for feral cats or free pet microchipping which is currently being offered.

  The shelter’s collaboration with local volunteers, including high school students through the Regional Occupations Programs (ROP), highlights its community-driven efforts.

  Events like “Clear the Shelter for Christmas” promote pet adoption and foster community engagement, furthering the shelter’s mission to find forever homes for our furry friends.

  The Manteca Animal Shelter has pioneered programs to help promote pet adoptions. One such program is the Doggie Day Out Program where residents are encouraged to come into the shelter and foster a dog for a week or walk them.

  The Doggie Day Out Program launched in January 2023, resulting in 761 Doggie Day Out. Of the 506 volunteers who participated, 82 adopted a pet. Volunteer Raquel Fresquez is dedicated to managing The Doggie Day Out Program.

  

  Stephanie Sandoval, Animal Services Supervisor, states, “We have residents who foster a cat or a dog for 30-60 days until they find their forever home. Some foster newborn kittens until they are old enough to be spayed or neutered.”

  

  Sandoval adds, “Looking ahead, the Manteca Animal Shelter is working to launch initiatives like a mobile spay/neuter program to increase veterinary accessibility to all Manteca residents. Normally, the cost for spaying or neutering is $100, this will be significantly reduced if done through the mobile program. The target date for implementation is May 2024.”

  

  Marketing efforts through social media and community events aim to boost pet adoption rates and reduce stray populations. To view the latest pets for adoption, the public can follow the Manteca Animal Shelter on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok or visit the shelter’s webpage.

  

  “It brings me immense joy to see how many families in Manteca have found the perfect pet with our help,” Chief Schluer shares.  “We are actively seeking funds to help expand our shelter, with plans to do so through grants and donations. Additionally, we welcome more volunteers and individuals looking to foster or adopt a cat or dog. Your support is greatly appreciated.”

  

  Visit the Manteca Animal Shelter webpage to learn how you can become a volunteer. To adopt a pet, visit the shelter at 115 E. Wetmore Street in Manteca from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Friday, call the shelter at (209) 456-8270, or visit https://24petconnect.com.

  

  About the City of Manteca

  Manteca is a full-service City with police, fire, public works, water, trash and sewer services. For more information, call the City Manager’s office at (209) 456-8000, email: Feedback@manteca.gov, or go online to https://www.manteca.gov.

  Incorporated in 1918, Manteca has a diverse population of 88,772. Manteca grew at 24.4 percent from 2010-2020 and continues to grow at an accelerated pace. The City has 28,454 households with a median home price of $500,017. The median annual household income is $90,640.

• Meet Lana McBroom, MBA, Acting Budget Manager

  February 21, 2024 9:30 pm Leave a Comment

  

  Manteca, Calif. – Meet Lana McBroom, Acting Budget Manager. With nearly 18 years of service to the City of Manteca, Lana brings a wealth of knowledge, technical expertise, and passion to her new role.

  Lana’s journey with the City of Manteca is not merely professional; it’s deeply personal. “I came to work for the City of Manteca because I grew up in this community and I love it,” Lana shares.

  “My family moved to Manteca 40 years ago. Working in the City gives me a unique opportunity to make lasting positive impacts on the community in which I live.”

  As Acting Budget Manager, Lana’s responsibilities encompass a wide spectrum of tasks, most notably ensuring sound financial management of City resources.

  “My role includes supporting the development of our annual budget in collaboration with senior leadership and City officials, performing fiscal analysis, monitoring budget compliance, preparing financial reports, and contributing to strategic planning efforts.”

  Beyond her professional duties, Lana remains deeply involved in the Manteca community. From her teenage years to adulthood, she has dedicated herself to various community activities and service projects.

  Lana’s volunteer work includes initiatives with the Second Harvest Food Bank, Manteca Senior Center, and the Cpl. Charles O. Palmer III Memorial Troop Support Program, where she packed military care packages and donated essential items.

  Lana also donates platelets and plasma for cancer treatment patients through The American Red Cross, exemplifying her commitment to helping others in need.

  “Lana McBroom’s hard work, dedication, and leadership contributions are invaluable to the City of Manteca,” stated City Manager, Toni Lundgren. “We are fortunate to have Lana as part of Team Manteca, and we look forward to her continued service and impact on our community.”

  About the City of Manteca

  Manteca is a full-service City with police, fire, public works, water, trash and sewer services. For more information, call the City Manager’s office at (209) 456-8000, email: Feedback@manteca.gov, or go online to https://www.manteca.gov.

  Incorporated in 1918, Manteca has a diverse population of 88,772. Manteca grew at 24.4 percent from 2010-2020 and continues to grow at an accelerated pace. The City has 28,454 households with a median home price of $500,017. The median annual household income is $90,640.

• Manteca Has Lots of Places for Children To Play and Compete

  February 13, 2024 11:28 pm Leave a Comment

  “Most parks are within a 10-minute walk from your home,” says Brandy Clark, Recreation and Community Services Manager.  For a complete list of fun events and competitions for children, adults, and seniors check out the Recreation Activity Guide.

   

  

  MANTECA CALIF. —The City of Manteca offers a total of 68 parks and community facilities, out of which 50 are exclusively designed to cater to children’s play and competitive activities. These parks offer a variety of programs throughout the year.

  Furthermore, Manteca has 18 specialty parks and community facilities, including a skate park, pickleball courts, tennis center, Northgate Softball Complex, Lincoln Pool, the Senior Center, and Woodward Community Park. The BMX track, golf course, and Big League Dreams Sports Parks are all operated through contracts.

  

  “Most parks are within a 10-minute walk from your home,” says Brandy Clark, Recreation and Community Services Manager.  For a complete list of fun events and competitions for children, adults, and seniors check out the Recreation Activity Guide.

  Creating programs for children of all ages and abilities to play and compete is the job of the City of Manteca’s seven-member Recreation and Community Services Department. Team Manteca has created sports leagues and educational initiatives that foster positive development, promote healthy lifestyles, and provide safe environments for children and teens in the community.

  The current sports program features NFL Flag Football. Over 260 kids participated this season, playing under the lights at Northgate Community Park. The community turned out in impressive numbers to watch the children play, which led the department to add a second season in the spring. Clark expressed excitement over the opportunity for all girls and boys to play together. “It’s cool and the kids have fun!” she exclaimed.

  

  Basketball leagues will begin in January and the City is helping players prepare with basketball clinics and camps throughout the year. There are over 500 children signed up for the league this year. These clinics and camps are available during the summer and before the season.

   “The clinics help prepare everyone to play,” Clark continues. “They provide children with more practice and one-on-one coaching time. This year there will be more basketball clinics and lots of youngsters are expected to participate.”

  

  “Last year, over 500 children participated in the Jr. Giants program, which we organize in partnership with the San Francisco Giants baseball team during the summer,” Clark exclaimed.

  The Recreation Department offers Tiny Tots sports programs for children aged 3-4 and 5-6; including basketball (twice a year), soccer (twice a year), flag football, and T-ball. The City also offers classes in baton twirling, art, dog obedience, tennis, Zumba, chess, and online Spanish classes.

   

  

  The Department also offers Challenger Sports for participants with special needs; currently, we are offering kickball, basketball, and a division within the Jr. Giants program.

  “For preschoolers, we have Art Exploration and Parent and Me. Additionally, in the youth area, we have Jr. Lifeguard Camps and Youth Summer Camps,”  Clark continues.

  Manteca offers various live entertainment events, including Movies in the Park and Music on Maple, both featuring live band performances, with food trucks on hand for refreshments.

  

  Park-a-Palooza at Woodward Park is another popular event. Live bands perform and around 2,000 people attend. There is a Trunk or Treat event that involves 3,000 kids and 60 businesses and organizations.

  “We just had Christmas at the Center, which included a tree-lighting ceremony, photo sessions with costumed characters, artificial snow, music, entertainment, and a visit from Santa Claus,”  Clark continues.  Approximately 1,500 people attended this event.

  

  “With the changes in the community and their preferences,  we work hard to maintain the level of service that our residents expect,” said Clark. “Our coordinators serve many residents. They also work on special events and with local independent contractors to give us a little more offering in leisure programming,” Clark added.

  “Serving a population that is nearing 100,000 with a team of seven is not an easy task for us; nonetheless, we have created safe fun for all,” said Clark.

  “We are looking for volunteers to coach and help children advance,” said Clark. ”If you are interested in volunteering, please call (209) 456-8600”.

  About the City of Manteca

  Manteca is a full-service City with police, fire, public works, water, trash and sewer services. For more information, call the City Manager’s office at (209) 456-8000, email: Feedback@manteca.gov, or go to Manteca.gov.

  Incorporated in 1918, Manteca has a diverse population of 88,772. Manteca grew at 24.4% from 2010-2020 and continues to grow at an accelerated pace. The City has 28,454 households with a median home price of $500,017. The median annual household income is $118,814.

• Cassandra Candini-Tilton is the Manteca City Director of Legislative Services/City Clerk

  February 7, 2024 11:59 pm Leave a Comment

  

  MANTECA, Calif. — Cassandra Candini-Tilton joined the Finance Department of the City of Manteca in October 2014. After a year, she transferred to the City Clerk’s office as the Deputy City Clerk. Due to her hard work and dedication, she was promoted to Assistant City Clerk in June 2019. On February 1, 2021, Candini-Tilton was appointed the City’s Director of Legislative Services/City Clerk.

  Candini-Tilton is a Manteca native. “Manteca is my hometown,” she explains, “and the opportunity to work within the City where I was born and raised held great significance for me. I wanted to contribute not only by leveraging my professional skills but also, by providing a unique perspective shaped by my intimate knowledge of the community”.

  “The privilege of collaborating with a team of exceptionally dedicated and hardworking people, day in and day out, is what I like best about working for the City. My colleagues’ work ethic and commitment are inspiring, and so are the responsiveness and can-do spirit of other City departments, like Police and Fire,” she continued.

  A typical day for Candini-Tilton varies day-by-day which includes administering democratic processes such as elections, access to city records, and all legislative actions ensuring transparency to the public. Candini-Tilton is the compliance officer for federal, state, and local statutes including the Political Reform Act, the Brown Act, and the Public Records Act.

  The City Clerk manages public inquiries and relationships and arranges for ceremonial and official functions.”   Legal matters requiring Candini-Tilton’s attention include accepting subpoenas and lawsuits for the City.

  As the Director of Legislative Services, she is heavily involved in preparations for the upcoming 2024 elections. Candini-Tilton also oversees the organizing of the 2024 Youth and Government Day event.

  Her additional responsibilities include working daily with the Mayor and City Council along with Department Directors.  Other typical department functions include overseeing the City’s construction bidding process, recruiting board and commission members, coordinating proclamations and certificates, organizing ceremonial events, and administering the oath of office to new employees.

  As City Clerk, she handles the filings for the Fair Political Practices Commission, overseeing Conflict of Interest and Campaign Disclosures, while also facilitating personnel ethics training requirements, as required by California law AB 1234.

  “I am committed to customer service and ensuring the smooth functioning of the City Clerk’s office as an integral part of the City’s organizational framework,” she stated.

  Candini-Tilton is an active member of Soroptimist International of Manteca and serves on the Membership and Mentoring Committee of the International Institute of Municipal Clerks.

  She represents Region 3 (Central Valley) for the City Clerks Association of California as the regional representative on the Association’s Regional Committee.

  In policy and community services, she serves as the City Clerk Appointee of the League of California Cities Policy Committee–Community Service. “This enables me to participate in meaningful discussions and decisions that shape policies impacting our region and City.

  “I am committed to professional development, bettering our community, and actively participating in the growth of our region,” said Candini-Tilton.

  About the City of Manteca

  Manteca is a full-service City with police, fire, public works, water, trash and sewer services. For more information, call the City Manager’s office at (209) 456-8000, email: Feedback@manteca.gov, or go to Manteca.gov.

  Incorporated in 1918, Manteca has a diverse population of 88,772. Manteca grew at 24.4% from 2010-2020 and continues to grow at an accelerated pace. The City has 28,454 households with a median home price of $500,017. The median annual household income is $118,814.

  Manteca-PR-129.3 Candini-Tilton MTT

• David Marques is The City of Manteca’s Fire Chief

  January 29, 2024 9:50 pm Leave a Comment

  

  MANTECA, CALIF.  Manteca’s Fire Chief, David Marques, has been working for the City of Manteca for nearly three decades, since 1996.  “Back in the late ’90s, competition for firefighter jobs was so fierce that young firefighters like me would take the first job they were offered,” Marques recalls; however, I’ve stayed in Manteca because I truly love my job and the people I work with.”

  Marques worked his way up through the ranks, serving as a Battalion Chief from 2011 until November 2021, when he was chosen as the City’s new Fire Chief.

  Chief Marques began his career in the South Placer Fire District in 1991 as a Reserve Firefighter. In 1993 he earned his associate of arts degree in Fire Science at American River College. He then obtained his Paramedic license in 1995 and was hired as a full-time Firefighter in South Placer.

  Toward continuing his professional development, Marques obtained his Chief Officer Certification from the State of California and completed the Fire and Emergency Services Program Management course at the National Fire Academy in 2016; he then enrolled at Columbia Southern University, where he graduated with his Bachelor of Science degree in Fire Services Administration, in 2020.

  Chief Marques attributes his continued success to the dedication, professionalism, and work ethic of the men and women he works with. “I take great pride and satisfaction in hearing people from other cities and organizations speak highly of the Manteca Fire Department, which happens often,” said Chief Marques.

  For Chief Marques, a typical day starts at 7:00 a.m. in his office at Fire Station 2. After meeting with his command staff to review any overnight events, he checks his daily calendar for meetings and events. On any given day he will attend several meetings, some with the public and some with other city staff.

  Much of his morning is spent answering and sending emails, after which he usually spends time attending to ongoing projects such as annual/monthly reports, budget preparation, staffing issues, and analyzing response effectiveness.

  “A particular priority for the Chief is planning for the future growth of the City and how the Manteca Fire Department will handle the increased call volume,” said Chief Marques.

  While his job consumes the lion’s share of his time, Chief Marques also makes time to be actively involved in the community.  For example, he belongs to the Manteca Afternoon Rotary Club and sits on the Board of the Second Harvest of The Greater Valley Food Bank.

  About the City of Manteca

  Manteca is a full-service City with police, fire, public works, water, trash and sewer services. For more information, call the City Manager’s office at (209) 456-8000, email: Feedback@manteca.gov, or go online to https://www.manteca.gov.

  Incorporated in 1918, Manteca has a diverse population of 88,772. Manteca grew at 24.4 percent from 2010-2020 and continues to grow at an accelerated pace. The City has 28,454 households with a median home price of $500,017. The median annual household income is $90,640.

• Manteca Police PD Adds Five New Officers With $625,000 Grant from Department of Justice

  January 23, 2024 7:33 pm Leave a Comment

  “We are thrilled to announce that the Manteca Police Department will be expanding by five new officers,” said City Manager Toni Lundgren. 

  

  Manteca, Calif.   The City of Manteca is a winner! “On behalf of United States Attorney General Merrick B. Garland, it is my pleasure to inform you the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (the COPS Office) has approved the application submitted by the City of Manteca for the 2023 FY23 COPS Hiring Program. The approved award amount is $625,000 for five new police officers” said Hugh Clements, COPS Director, Office for Civil Rights United States Department of Justice.

  “We are thrilled to announce that the Manteca Police Department will be expanding by five officers,” said City Manager Toni Lundgren. “With Manteca’s population growing at an accelerated pace of 24.4 percent from 2010-2020, we recognize the need for additional officers to ensure the safety and security of our community. This grant provides us with the necessary funds to commence the expansion of our Police Department.”

  “Thank you Ninth District Congressional Representative Josh Harder for supporting these grant funds,” said Manteca Mayor Gary Sing.

  

  There are currently 78 officers in the Police Department’s budget. Of those, 76 are on the job with another two in the process of being hired. The plan is to hire two of the five officers this year, one in 2025 and the other two in 2026.

  The COPS Hiring Program (CHP) is a competitive award program designed by the Department of Justice to provide funding directly to law enforcement agencies to hire and/or rehire additional career law enforcement officers to increase their community policing capacity and crime prevention efforts.

  Manteca Police Chief Stephen Schluer said the CHP award will put five new police officers on the street.  The Department also will increase involvement in community policing, and community partnerships, and allow him to implement changes to personnel and Department management that support community policing.

  

  “These five new officers are permanent additions to Manteca’s Police force totaling 83 by 2026 and we plan to add more officers in the future,” explained Chief Schluer.

  The COPS Grant funds the officers for 36 months and the City is required to maintain the positions for an additional 12 months. This is in addition to the number of locally funded sworn officer positions that would have been available had the award not been granted.

  “We continue to seek additional funding to grow our Police department to meet the needs of our growing City,” declared Chief Schluer.

  The COPS Hiring Program award requires the City to contribute a match of 72.5 percent of the award. The local match must be a cash match from funds not previously budgeted for law enforcement purposes and must be paid during the award period.  The match must be made on an increasing basis during each year of the three-year award period, with the federal share decreasing accordingly.  Total cost is projected at $2,252,385 with the DOJ contributing $625,000 and the City contributing $1,627,385 from Measure M reserves and general fund vacancy surplus funds.

  Manteca will maintain the positions of the five newly hired officers for at least 12 months after the completion of 36 months of federal funding. This is in addition to the number of locally funded sworn officer positions that would have been available had the award not been granted.

  If you have any questions please, call the City Manager’s office at (209) 456-8000, email Feedback@manteca.gov, or go to https://www.manteca.gov.

  

  About the City of Manteca

  Manteca is a full-service City with police, fire, public works, water, trash and sewer services. For more information, call the City Manager’s office at (209) 456-8000, email: Feedback@manteca.gov, or go to https://www.manteca.gov.

  Incorporated in 1918, Manteca has a diverse population of 86,928. Manteca grew at 24.4 percent from 2010-2020 and continues to grow at an accelerated pace. The City has 25,670 households with a median home price of $432,100. The median annual household income is $82,538.

• Barbara Harb, Economic Development Manager

  6:20 pm Leave a Comment

  

  While Barbara Harb has been serving the City of Manteca as its Economic Development Manager for only a year and a half, she has lived in south San Joaquin County for more than 25 years and, as a result, knows a great deal about Manteca’s strengths and opportunities.

  Asked why she wanted to work for the City she said, “With all of the housing interest in the area, I felt I could help Manteca leverage its premier, Central California location and the City’s significant growth to attract higher-quality retail and entertainment businesses, and higher-paying jobs to our community.

  She points out that she also has a passion for serving small businesses, such as those in Manteca’s historic downtown.  “I truly have a passion for revitalizing downtowns to become destinations for families and friends to gather, enjoy great food, and shop…while simultaneously preserving its rich history, cultural value, and unique charms.“

  Harb continues, “I knew Manteca was a special community even before being employed by the City; and now, as the City’s Economic Development Manager, I am privileged to work alongside an enormously dedicated team of professionals who share the same customer-focused, outcome-driven approach to serving our community.”

  “I think what I enjoy most about the City of Manteca is working with our development team to streamline the development process for new developments coming to Manteca,”  Harb says that she understands that the permitting process can be confusing and complicated; and that wasted time is wasted money.

  “Therefore, one of our top priorities in Economic Development is to help businesses navigate through the process and open up as quickly as possible. In fact, she feels her experience working with new businesses allows her to observe the process from the customers’ perspective and recommend improvements,” Harb observes.

  A day typically begins with Harb managing her email.  After that, she works with the individuals who contact the City to ask about available properties, renewing a business license, permitting process and requirements, local and regional grant funding, and attending collaborative meetings with local and regional agencies.

  There are also meetings to discuss new developments and marketing meetings.  “On the best days, I’ll attend a Chamber coffee or ribbon cutting for a new business,” Harb adds. “The very best day will be when I finally get that call from Trader Joe’s!”

  In addition to all that, the Economic Development team works on gathering and compiling data to help promote the value of a Manteca location.

  They secure information from several data sources, including the U.S. Census Bureau, ESRI, Placer.ai, University of the Pacific, San Joaquin County, California Department of Finance, Employment Development Department, and other independently commissioned studies.

  “We use these data to design advertisements and marketing materials for promoting the City.  It all helps us put together a compelling story as to why Manteca is a smart investment and a great place to live,” Harb concludes.

  About the City of Manteca

  Manteca is a full-service City with police, fire, public works, water, trash and sewer services. For more information, call the City Manager’s office at (209) 456-8000, email: Feedback@manteca.gov, or go online to https://www.manteca.gov.

  Incorporated in 1918, Manteca has a diverse population of 88,772. Manteca grew at 24.4 percent from 2010-2020 and continues to grow at an accelerated pace. The City has 28,454 households with a median home price of $500,017. The median annual household income is $90,640.

• The City Invests in Downtown Manteca with a PBID

  January 16, 2024 5:28 pm Leave a Comment

  

  Manteca, Calif.   The City of Manteca is investing in the City with a proposed formation of a Downtown Property-Based Improvement District (PBID).

  The City of Manteca has prioritized the revitalization of Downtown Manteca. “We realize an active city center that provides a safe, clean gathering place for friends and family is essential to uplifting Manteca residents’ quality of life,” said Barbara Harb, the City’s Economic Development Manager.

  A PBID is a special benefits district whereby property owners agree to assess themselves in order to fund defined benefits above what is already provided by the City, and which is consistent with the City’s “Management District Plan.” A PBID is managed by a non-profit corporation of stakeholders.  “In the present case, the City has contracted with New City America to create a formal PBID, similar to other PBIDs that can be found all over the United States,“ said Manteca City Manteca City Manager Toni Lundgren.

  

  “Downtown is the historic center of Manteca and preserving its rich history can be costly. The City has invested in murals that are representative of our community culture. Several murals represent our agricultural history and support the men and women who have served in our country’s international conflicts,” Lundgren continues.

  The newest mural can be found on the wall of a new comedy club opening this month (January) near the intersection of Main St. and Yosemite Ave.

  PBIDs often sponsor special events, maintain the cleanliness of the streets, or add seasonal decorations to attract more business to the City.

  In October 2021, the City and NCA sent surveys to property owners in the proposed district to understand precisely what services they would like to see provided through the local PBID.  The survey results indicated that the priority for downtown is cleanliness and safety, as well as marketing and positive promotion of the downtown,” Lundgren explains.

  Using the survey results, NCA, City staff, and several property owners developed the Management District Plan (MDP), which outlines the funding formula and how the funds can be spent. The assessments for each property owner were then calculated.

  The process that determines whether or not the special district will be formed is called a “protest ballot”.  Ballots are sent out to all property owners whose property is located within the boundaries of the proposed district.

  

  The vote is weighted by the amount of annual assessment; those who pay more will have a greater (weighted) vote.  Property owners will be given 45 days to return their ballot and either support or reject the creation of the special district.

  If the number of no-votes exceeds simple-majority, then the district will not be formed and the process to create the special district will end (thus, the term “protest”).  If less than a majority of the weighted vote objects, then the special district will, indeed, be formed.

  Lundgren points out that additional funding for Downtown Businesses comes from a $200,000 annual small business grant program for downtown, $100,000 in façade grants available to all businesses (including downtown businesses), and approximately $58,000 in sidewalk cleaning services already funded by the City.

  Harb, the City’s Economic Development Manager, explains that during the COVID pandemic, the City Council authorized $5,000 grants to local businesses to help them meet their financial responsibilities, while they continued to comply with State restrictions.

  

  “Since then, the City Council has continued to provide grants to businesses with a greater focus on downtown businesses, she continues, “In the last two grant cycles, the City has allocated $400,000 in grant funding specifically to downtown property and business owners, with a priority placed on attracting new entertainment and restaurant businesses.

  Grants require a funding match by the applicant; the maximum grant award is $20,000. “To date, there are nearly $2 million in renovation and improvement projects taking place downtown,” said Harb.

  

  If you have any questions please, call the City Manager’s office at (209) 456-8000, email Feedback@manteca.gov, or go online to https://www.manteca.gov.

  About the City of Manteca

  Manteca is a full-service City with police, fire, public works, water, trash and sewer services. For more information, call the City Manager’s office at (209) 456-8000, email: Feedback@manteca.gov, or go online to https://www.manteca.gov.

  Incorporated in 1918, Manteca has a diverse population of 88,772. Manteca grew at 24.4 percent from 2010-2020 and continues to grow at an accelerated pace. The City has 28,454 households with a median home price of $500,017. The median annual household income is $90,640.

• The City of Manteca has a New Public Safety Office Downtown

  January 3, 2024 7:21 pm Leave a Comment

  Manteca, Calif. – The City of Manteca has a new Public Safety Annex located at 124 Sycamore Ave.  It will house the police department’s community resource officers, code enforcement divisions, and the Fire Department’s fire marshal/fire prevention services.

  

  Two police officers who are assigned to homeless outreach efforts, Mike Kelly and Matt Smith, will operate from this facility. “The intent is to increase their effectiveness,” said Manteca Police Chief Stephen Schluer.

  According to Toni Lundgren, City Manager, the downtown Annex must accommodate the growing population.  “From 2010-2020, the City experienced a population growth rate of 24.4%; further, the City has more than 10,000 entitled lots in the development pipeline, indicating rapid growth,” she explains.

  “The region is experiencing growth, with businesses expanding and companies relocating to the City and the region,” Lundgren continues.  “The workforce is growing, and San Joaquin County boasts of being one of the hottest housing markets in the nation.  This is due to buyers seeking excellent schools, close-knit communities, great housing and land prices, and a high quality of life.”

  Lundgren points out, further, that there are additional indicators of economic growth in the region, including a world-class wine and agriculture industry, a 431,000-square-foot Tesla manufacturing facility, as well as the presence of FedEx, Medline, Amazon, and numerous startups that provide hundreds of job opportunities.

  

  Manteca purchased the building on Sycamore Avenue two years ago for $390,000.  “The building was purchased from San Joaquin County it used to be an old public health building.  The county remodeled the facility before we bought the property however, we had to fix the building from a roof leak that occurred when the building was vacant,” said Lundgren.

  “We will continue to add services and facilities to meet the needs of our growing population,” Lundgren concluded.

  

  CRO Matt Smith said, “It is a great opportunity to be able to connect with community members and businesses in the downtown area by being at the Public Safety Annex.”

  ORO Mike Kelly said, “Downtown is extremely clean and no homeless have been in or sleeping at the Library for over a month now.”

  “In the pulse of our city, the Public Safety Annex emerges as a powerful force for efficiency, strategically positioned to address the challenge of homelessness in our downtown area. Beyond its role in ensuring swift responses, this annex becomes a pivotal instrument in curbing the impact of homelessness. By proactively engaging with compassion and resources, it stands as a beacon of hope, reducing the presence of homelessness and fostering a more secure and vibrant downtown community. In this synergy of safety and support, our city demonstrates that an empowered public safety approach is not only effective but essential for building a resilient urban fabric,” said Chief Schluer.

  If you have any questions please, call the City Manager’s office at (209) 456-8000, emailFeedback@manteca.gov, or go online to https://www.manteca.gov.

  About the City of Manteca

  Manteca is a full-service City with police, fire, public works, water, trash and sewer services. For more information, call the City Manager’s office at(209) 456-8000, email: Feedback@manteca.gov, or go to https://www.manteca.gov.

  Incorporated in 1918, Manteca has a diverse population of 88,772. Manteca grew at 24.4 percent from 2010-2020 and continues to grow at an accelerated pace. The City has 28,454 households with a median home price of $500,017. The median annual household income is $90,640.

• Effective Leadership Requires A Lifelong Commitment to Learning

  7:11 pm Leave a Comment

  

   

  Manteca, Calif. – Whether you’re in the public, nonprofit, or corporate sector, good leaders know that effective leadership requires a lifelong commitment to learning, building new skills, and expanding their network of colleagues and friends.

  Manteca’s City Manager Toni Lundgren and City Attorney David Nefouse are doing just that. They are attending the Harvard Kennedy School Executive Education Public Leadership Certificate program online.

  The Public Leadership Certificate consists of six, six-week courses in three focus areas: Evidence for Decisions, Policy Design and Delivery, and Leadership and Ethics.

  “Harvard’s Public Leadership concentration is for leaders with extensive public service experience,” according to Harvard’s website.  “Through these professional education programs, they explore innovative leadership and management strategies and gain cutting-edge insights into effectively delivering public-facing services while managing diverse constituencies.”

  Lundgren and Nefouse recently completed the first class and have been awarded a certificate of completion for the Public Narrative: Leadership, Storytelling, and Action Program.

  Lundgren stated, “Through storytelling, I have gained a deeper understanding of empathy and how to relate my values to governing.  This has helped me communicate more effectively with my team and the citizens of Manteca, explaining why I believe a certain course of action is best for the city.”

  “Manteca is experiencing a great deal of changes in population and services. What I learned from this world-class Public Policy Leadership program is making a positive difference in how I make choices every day in our city,” said Nefouse.

  The City Attorney advises the City Council, City advisory boards and commissions, and City staff on all legal issues that they face daily in the complex area of municipal operations in California.

  Harvard says that “Public Narrative: Leadership, Storytelling, and Action is a transformative online program through which you can strengthen your capacity to lead. You learn how to tell a story of self that enables others to”get you.” A story of us that enables your community to “get each other;” and a story of now that turns the present moment into one of challenge, hope, and action. It is a ground-breaking practice that for years has proven an invaluable tool for senior public leaders, community organizers, students, and leaders across a range of organizations.”

  Toni Lundgren’s upcoming class is Women Leaders in Government. David Nefouse will take Negotiation Tactics in the Workplace.

  “We plan to take these we have not had it approved yet by the council and coordinated with our schedules. Our goal though is for both of us to complete the program,” said Lundgren.

  “The City of Manteca invests in its team to empower them to help our City thrive. We are always looking for good people to hire,” said Lundgren. To view employment opportunities with the City, visit HTTPS://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/manteca.

  About the City of Manteca

  Manteca is a full-service City with police, fire, public works, water, trash and sewer services. For more information, call the City Manager’s office at(209) 456-8000, email: Feedback@manteca.gov, or go to https://www.manteca.gov.

  Incorporated in 1918, Manteca has a diverse population of 88,772. Manteca grew at 24.4 percent from 2010-2020 and continues to grow at an accelerated pace. The City has 28,454 households with a median home price of $500,017. The median annual household income is $90,640.

   

• Does Manteca Need More Parks and Open Spaces?

  December 26, 2023 10:28 pm Leave a Comment

  

  MANTECA CALIF. — Does the City of Manteca need new parks and open spaces?  “The importance of preserving and maintaining parks, green spaces, and natural areas in the community is paramount,” says Manteca City Manager Toni Lundgren.  “We need to protect these resources so that residents have access to recreational areas that promote health, well-being, economic growth, and environmental sustainability.”

  “And, with the population growth we’ve seen in recent years, we are going to need more,” Brandy, Clark Manteca’s Recreation and Community Services Manager stresses. According to Clark, Manteca needs open space for families to connect to nature and exercise, as well as relax.  During COVID-19, the use of public parks increased as Manteca residents discovered how much they need them; parks and open spaces are key to maintaining physical and emotional health.

  Open spaces are not just empty areas, Clark explains.  “Open spaces provide critical green infrastructure benefits, such as helping to mitigate climate change, alleviate floods, and maintain ecosystem services.  Public spaces can help catalyze equitable economic opportunity in cities and neighborhoods while reducing costs due to issues from health care to climate change.  Clark points to a UN-Habitat study that showed that every $1 spent on park maintenance in Philadelphia generated nearly $100 in economic value.

  “Manteca’s parks and open spaces are gathering places where people come together for birthdays and cultural events and to experience peace,” Clark continues. “We need to reserve places for new parks; we need more large spaces for community parks.  Our growing population means we need more land for parks and recreation.  We need large community parks in different areas of town; not just neighborhood parks. We have to plan for the future to deliver what the community wants and needs.”

  

  “Recreation and Community Services is looking for volunteers to coach and help our children have fun and improve,” adds Clark.  “If you can volunteer, please call (209) 456-8600.”

  About the City of Manteca

  Manteca is a full-service City with police, fire, public works, water, trash and sewer services. For more information call the City Manager’s office at (209) 456-8000, email Feedback@manteca.gov, or go online to https://www.manteca.gov.

  Incorporated in 1918, Manteca has a diverse population of 88,772. Manteca grew at 24.4 percent from 2010-2020 and continues to grow at an accelerated pace. The City has 28,454 households with a median home price of $500,017. The median annual household income is $90,640.

• Brandy Clark, Recreation and Community Services Manager

  December 12, 2023 6:43 pm Leave a Comment

  

  This is a series of articles intended to introduce to the community key members of the City’s Team of employees who serve Manteca residents through their respective positions and areas of expertise.

  Brandy Clark, Recreation and Community Services Manager for the City of Manteca celebrated her 21st year of service to the City this past August,  Clark says she works for the City because she enjoys making a positive difference in people’s lives in the City.

  Clark attended Golden West School and graduated from Manteca High. Growing up in this area, she took part in many of the programs that the City still offers. She recalls taking her first ballet class and performing at various events in town. “Organizing events is one of my passions,” she says.

  “I loved attending those events in the past, and now as a member of the Recreation & Community Services Department, I have the opportunity to help create wonderful events.” Clark added, “When I attend events, I often run into people I went to school with and their children, as well as teachers who taught me. It’s a great feeling to see familiar faces, people I know and care about.”

  When asked about her favorite aspect of her job, Clark replies, “I enjoy leading a team of professionals who are genuinely passionate about their work.  It makes my job a lot easier, and we work together seamlessly, sharing the same objectives and visions. Everyone is committed to rolling up their sleeves and working hard to achieve our collective goals.”

  “Some people don’t understand what we do.  Some may think we play dodgeball and jump rope all day. Actually, we’re working hard to give community members the ability to live and play in Manteca.”

  There’s no such thing as a typical day at work for Brandy. Every day is different, some days she’s engrossed in emails, budgets, and programs. On other days she’s in the field attending events and talking to people to make it all work well.

  Some days are spent planning future programs.  “I am always looking for ways to improve the department, its procedures, and programs, and working with the team to ensure our department is running as efficiently as possible. It really is the best job!” said Clark.

  Given her lifelong history with the city, it’s no surprise to learn that she has been active in the community, outside of work. She taught dance classes for many years and served as vice president for the Noon Kiwanis.

  Clark was recognized as the Kiwanis Member of the Year for 2020-2021 and is currently the treasurer for the Kids’ Sake nonprofit. In January, she will be joining the Boys and Girls Club of Manteca/ Lathrop as a board member.

  Clark serves as the Manteca Parks and Recreation Foundation’s staff liaison. She noted that they are always ready to assist with community events and non-profit organizations. She also serves as the liaison to the Recreation & Parks Commission.

  Clark served as the past liaison to the Manteca Youth Advisory Commission and the Manteca Senior Advisory Committee. She founded the Angel Tree program that provides gifts to lonely, ill, or homebound seniors during the holidays. Clark was also the co-founder of the For Kids’ Sake program which provides Christmas gifts to over 2,500 children each year. She was recognized as the 2014 Humanitarian of the Year for the City of Manteca.

  Looking ahead, Clark emphasizes the significance of funding the Recreation Department. She acknowledges that her departmental needs are similar to those of other departments. The City provides many programs and makes the most of our spaces and facilities, but meeting the high expectations of all residents can be challenging.

  “As our community continues to grow at a rapid pace, it is our responsibility to provide services that meet the needs of our residents. With an increasing population, there is a greater demand for extensive community services, such as an aquatics center. However, many people are unaware of the substantial expenses associated with building, staffing, and maintaining such a facility,” explained Clark.

  “Without funding, the foundation of any endeavor weakens.  It’s the lifeblood of any project or idea. Let’s talk about how we can secure the funding we need to make our goals a reality!”

  Clark emphasizes that the Parks Division is responsible for maintaining the parks, while the Recreation & Community Services is responsible for programming them. The Recreation & Community Services Department is the only City Department where residents visit because they want to, not because they are obligated to do so.

  Throughout the summer of 2023, over 2,500 residents participated in group or private swim lessons. It’s clear that our parks are a beloved destination for our residents; for example, Woodward Park is always bustling with visitors on weekends. The Trunk or Treat event held at the end of October had an attendance of over 3,000 children.

  In her limited free time, Clark enjoys hanging out with her family on their property riding dirt bikes, and sitting around the fire pit. She also enjoys Friday night football games, volunteering, cooking, planning, and decorating for family events.

  About the City of Manteca

  Manteca is a full-service City with police, fire, public works, water, trash and sewer services. For more information, call the City Manager’s office at (209) 456-8000, email: Feedback@manteca.gov, or go online to https://www.manteca.gov.

  Incorporated in 1918, Manteca has a diverse population of 88,772. Manteca grew at 24.4 percent from 2010-2020 and continues to grow at an accelerated pace. The City has 28,454 households with a median home price of $500,017. The median annual household income is $90,640.

• 911 Emergency Calls in Manteca have increased 23.5 percent; mostly due to the growing challenges and issues involving the unhoused (homeless)

  November 28, 2023 6:36 pm Leave a Comment

  

  MANTECA, CALIF — The volume of 911 emergency calls involving the unhoused (homeless) in Manteca has increased 23.5 percent over the past two years, as the homeless population in Manteca has decreased by 89 people. The number of unhoused individuals in Manteca in January 2022 was 129; the number of unhoused individuals in Manteca in January 2020 was 218.

  According to Stephen Schluer Manteca’s Chief of Police, from January 1, 2022, to July 15, 2023, the City had 2,177 transient-related calls for service; up from 1,143 during a 12-month period in 2021. This includes 911 calls and non-emergency calls that mention homeless or transient. The main reason for these calls has to do with the need for medical aid, fires, and assaults.

  Emergency calls linked to fire, however, have gone down in recent years. David Marques, Manteca’s Fire Chief, said, “Three years ago, we averaged about 10 percent of our calls being directly related to a homeless person; in 2023, to date, we are averaging 3-5 percent.

  One reason for this decrease in calls to the Fire Department involving the unhoused is that calls involving warming fires used to go to the Fire Department; today, these calls go to the Police Department.

  For more information regarding this topic, call (209) 456-8556, or email homelessdivision@manteca.gov.  Additional information is available on the Manteca City website: at https://www.manteca.gov/departments/office-of-the-city-manager/the unhoused -housing.

  About the City of Manteca

  Manteca is a full-service City with police, fire, public works, water, trash and sewer services. For more information, call the City Manager’s office at (209) 456-8000, email: Feedback@manteca.gov, or go online to https://www.manteca.gov.

  Incorporated in 1918, Manteca has a diverse population of 88,772. Manteca grew at 24.4 percent from 2010-2020 and continues to grow at an accelerated pace. The City has 28,454 households with a median home price of $500,017. The median annual household income is $90,640.

• Manteca is Committed to Keeping the City Clean

  November 24, 2023 7:40 pm Leave a Comment

  

  

  MANTECA, CA. — Manteca City Council and City Manager Toni Lundgren are committed to keeping our City streets clean and safe. To keep that commitment the City has contracted with Manteca Property Services  (“MPS”) to clean-up trash piles on the streets and lots Citywide.  “In addition to the routine removal of trash and debris from streets and public spaces, MPS will extend its efforts to provide support in cleaning up the surroundings of homeless encampments,” said Vielka Guarascio, Management Analyst, Office of the City Manager – Housing and Homeless Division.

  The clean-ups happen Citywide Monday through Friday.  In addition,  Manteca Property Services clean-up the State Highway property on the 120 and 99 Tuesday – Thursday.

  More specifically, Manteca Property Services takes care of Manteca’s sidewalks, parks, bike paths, alleys, and homeless encampments.  The City police department will post a 72-hour notice of clean-up before items are removed from homeless encampments.  Police officers Mike Kelly and Matthew Smith from Manteca’s Police Department Outreach Team will contact the inhabitants and offer them shelter at the City’s Homeless Shelter at 555 Industrial Park Drive, Guarascio explains.

  Additional outreach to the homeless is done by Community Medical Centers, The Salvation Army, His Way Recovery, PREVAIL, Love Inc., Crossroads Grace Church and Calvary Church, which are held every other Tuesday”.

  “Manteca Property Services also works with Officers Mike Kelly and Matthew Smith to clean-up piles of trash dumps, abandoned furniture, debris, etc. through Government Outreach Requests received by residents,” Guarascio continues.

  “If you are living unhoused, or at risk of becoming unhoused, please call (209) 456-8556; we can assist in connecting you with accessible resources and supportive services,” Guarascio concluded.

  If you see trash on our streets, call the City Manager’s office at (209) 456-8000, email Feedback@manteca.gov, or go online to https://www.manteca.gov.

  

  An example of trash on Manteca’s streets. This is Before…

  

  About the City of Manteca

  Manteca is a full-service City with police, fire, public works, water, trash and sewer services. For more information, call the City Manager’s office at (209) 456-8000, email: Feedback@manteca.gov, or go online to https://www.manteca.gov.

  Incorporated in 1918, Manteca has a diverse population of 88,772. Manteca grew at 24.4 percent from 2010-2020 and continues to grow at an accelerated pace. The City has 28,454 households with a median home price of $500,017. The median annual household income is $90,640.

• Toni Lundgren, Manteca City Manager

  October 30, 2023 11:40 pm Leave a Comment

  

  Toni Lundgren is the City Manager for City of Manteca, she has served for eight months and started with the City more than 16 years ago. Lundgren was selected by a professional recruiting firm search in a process that looked at 34 candidates. She was unanimously approved by the Manteca City Council this year.

  Since 2016 Manteca has had six City managers. Lungren worked with them all.

  Councilmember Jose Nuño called Lundgren “the best fit.” Vice Mayor Mike Morowit said, “She has the institutional knowledge, having been with the City for 16 years, and she cares about Manteca.”

  Lundgren said she came to work for the City “to do what is best for Manteca.” Over the years when trying to initiate programs the community wanted, she said she grew weary of always hearing the word “no.”

  Lundgren said that one of her goals—and that of the council—is to have the City on a strong financial footing so it can provide the services that citizens need and desire.

  She grew up in Linden, 20 miles to the northeast of Manteca, where she graduated from Linden High. She attended Delta College and then earned a degree at Sacramento State University and her Master’s degree from Cal State Long Beach.

  Lundgren has 25 years working in municipal government. Before starting in Manteca 16 years ago, she worked in Stockton, Lodi, Escalon, and a Special District.

  During the initial years of her career, Lundgren was employed in the parks and recreation department. She emphasized that parks and recreation services depend largely on a stable municipal budget and sound financial management to meet the expectations of citizens.

  Lundgren was asked what he likes most about working for the City of Manteca. She replied, “I am thrilled to finally have the chance to enable the City’s excellent employees to execute the amazing ideas they have to improve our City.” Lundgren explained that she is excited to support the City’s workers in implementing their innovative ideas and contributing to the betterment of Manteca.

  She calls the City employees, Mayor, and council Team Manteca, and says, “Leading this team of professionals is the best thing I’ve ever done. Together, we’re finding solutions to make our city better. I’m so happy to be here.”

  “Our main focus is to come up with solutions to the challenges that our city faces. My typical day includes attending meetings, preparing and reviewing reports, and negotiating with vendors and contractors. I also meet with City residents, department heads, as well as the Chiefs of police and fire. In short, I have a very busy schedule,” said Lundgren.

  “Every day is different and every day is challenging, but Team Manteca is making progress,” exclaimed Lundgren.

  “In my spare time, you can catch me at one of my two son’s football, baseball, basketball, or lacrosse games. I love going to Country Concerts and to cook when I have time!” said Lundgren.

• Protect Your Home From Fire Get Rid of Your Weeds Now

  7:32 pm Leave a Comment

  

   MANTECA, CA.  Weed abatement is an essential element in fire prevention. “Understanding the basics of fire safety as it relates to property management is essential for homeowners and businesses,” Manteca’s Fire Chief Dave Marques stresses.  He continues, “Precautions are necessary to prevent fires from spreading to buildings and causing serious property damage.  By carefully maintaining vegetation and removing dead plants and trees promptly, property owners can protect structures more effectively against the devastating effects of fires.”

  The Fire Department inspects every parcel of property in the City every year to determine if it presents a fire hazard due to weeds and debris.  In a typical year, the Manteca Fire Department issues several hundred notices of violation and this year is already approaching 400.

  When violations are observed, property owners/occupants receive a notice of violation providing detailed information about the violation and corrections needed.  The responsible party has 30 days to abate the violation.  If abatement is not completed after 30 days the parcel may receive a citation for $370 (fees included).

  Continued failure to abate the problem can result in additional fines of $335 and $635 for the second and third citations.  If the property owner fails to comply within the given time, the City can hire an independent contractor to abate the property.

  

  The fire department’s Prevention Bureau is tasked with enforcing the City ordinance governing property owners’ responsibility to control weeds or other growth on their property to reduce fire hazards.

  “Our focus is on prevention,” Chief Marques explains.  “We are actively reducing the likelihood of fires, burns, and environmental impact while mitigating the severity of events that do occur.”

  The fire department is responsible for protecting the lives and property of the citizens of Manteca. As a full-service fire department, it provides fire protection, emergency medical care, hazardous materials response, community risk reduction, water rescue, and emergency operations preparations and oversight.”

  ABATEMENT GUIDELINES

  The following abatement guidelines apply to all property within the City of Manteca:

  1. ALL PROPERTIES: All weeds, rubbish, excess dirt, trash, dry vegetation, discarded furniture, appliances, garbage, auto parts, or other material that constitutes a public nuisance, must be abated from the property, fence line to fence line.
  2. A property of half an acre or more: Mow all vegetation to a maximum of 4 to 6 inches in height. Remove all grass, weeds, or debris from the property. Disc or Till the Entire Property.
  3. Property of half an acre or less: Mow all vegetation to a maximum of 4 to 6 inches in height. Rake and remove all dry grasses.
  4. ALLEYS: Mow all grass and/or weeds to a maximum of 4 to 6 inches in height. Fence lines must be clean and free of weeds. Any and all combustibles must be removed. This includes but is not limited to, trash, rubbish, dry grass, prunings, clippings, auto parts, furniture, etc.
  5. TREES AND SHRUBS: All dead trees, shrubs, and bushes must be cut down and removed from the property. Prunings must also be removed from the property.

  Rules for weed control can be found in Municipal Code Chapter 8.16 and are available for viewing on the City’s website at https://www.manteca.gov. If you have questions about the weed abatement program or would like to report a property that is not being maintained, call the Fire Prevention Bureau at (209) 456-8340 or email info@manteca.gov.

  About Manteca

  Manteca is a full-service City with police, fire, public works, water, trash, and sewer services. For more information call the City Manager’s office at (209) 456-8000, email Feedback@manteca.gov, or go online to https://www.manteca.gov.

  Incorporated in 1918, Manteca has a diverse population of 86,928. Manteca continues to grow at 4.1 percent a year. The City has 25,670 households with a median home price of $432,100. The median annual household income is $82,538.

• Vielka Guarascio, Management Analyst, Office of the City Manager – Housing and Homeless Division

  7:28 pm Leave a Comment

  

  Vielka Guarascio is a Management Analyst in the Housing and Homeless Division for the City of Manteca. Her career started at the City in January 2022, when she joined the City Attorney’s office as a Legal Assistant. During this time, she actively participated in many of the City’s projects and homeless issues.

  “The opportunity to work for The City of Manteca was enticing for several reasons,” explained Guarascio. “With a decade of legal experience, I felt well-prepared for a role in the public sector, particularly considering my earlier exposure during my student internship with the City of San Jose,” said Guarascio.

  She added, “Returning to the public sector, this time in a legal capacity, felt like a natural progression and a significant milestone in my career. The added opportunity to work for the City where I reside was especially appealing, as I genuinely want to contribute my skills and efforts to its betterment.”

  One of Guarascio’s main commitment is addressing the challenges of homelessness in our community.  “The City continues to devote and develop new resources to ensure homelessness is preventable, brief, and infrequent. I am dedicated to helping the Housing and Homeless Division ensure that vulnerable residents have the adequate resources and make the connection to the appropriate supportive services.”

  “What I like most about working for the City of Manteca is the opportunity to create a positive impact through my work. The work is diverse and meaningful, with each day presenting new opportunities to make a positive impact in Manteca. Knowing that the projects and initiatives I’m involved in directly contribute to, and help, the most vulnerable in the community. I also appreciate the team atmosphere, collaborative spirit, and great group of individuals to work with,” declared Guarascio.

  “My typical day is quite dynamic,” exclaimed Guarascio. “I engage in various meetings, including those related to homelessness, the development of the navigation center, and available resources. I also work closely with Community Resource Officers to collaborate with faith-based, non-profit organizations, and other public entities to collectively provide resources for Manteca’s homeless community.

  “Beyond the workplace, I am a huge sports fan and love to attend as many professional games as possible. I also enjoy exploring new destinations through travel and spending quality time with my family,” said Guarascio.

  “If you are living unhoused, or at risk of becoming unhoused, please call (209) 456-8556; we can assist in connecting you with accessible resources and supportive services,” Guarascio concluded.

  About Manteca

  Manteca is a full-service City with police, fire, public works, water, trash, and sewer services. For more information call the City Manager’s office at (209) 456-8556, email Feedback@manteca.gov, or go online to https://www.manteca.gov.

  Incorporated in 1918, Manteca has a diverse population of 86,928. Manteca continues to grow at 4.1 percent a year. The City has 25,670 households with a median home price of $432,100. The median annual household income is $82,538.

• Services For The Unhoused (Homeless) In The City of Manteca Remains A Top Priority For City Officials

  7:10 pm Leave a Comment

  

   

  The City of Manteca has developed a comprehensive approach to assisting the unhoused (homeless) that addresses the need for housing, health care, mental health challenges, substance abuse, and more.

  MANTECA, CALIF — Assisting the unhoused (homeless) in Manteca is a societal issue driven by such dynamics as lack of affordable housing, mental illness, and substance abuse, among others.  In recent years, the number of unsheltered or unhoused individuals has increased, not just in Manteca, but throughout the state of California.  “Reducing and assisting the unhoused continues to be a top priority for the Manteca City Council and City staff,” says City Manager Toni Lundgren.

  The City offers a host of services intended to assist the unhoused.

  For example, the City’s Homeless Emergency Center is operated by His Way Refuge Center (“His Way”) at 555 Industrial Park. His Way’s mission is to provide a clean, stable, and supportive environment so that the residents can begin to fine-tune their lives.

  Additionally, His Way operates 11 homes in Manteca and plans to open several more in the future through His Way Recovery House, Inc.  These homes are operated by onsite volunteers who assist guests in maintaining a home, free from drugs or alcohol.

  Further, Manteca is changing the municipal codes to allow new classifications of housing in the downtown area.  The current downtown zoning designations of CBD-1 and CBD-2, for example, allow for multi-family dwelling units and live-work developments.  CBD-2 also allows for residential care homes, supportive housing, and transitional housing.

  This will change with the updated General Plan.  All properties currently zoned CBD-1 and CBD-2 will be given the Downtown land use designation, which will allow for multi-family housing; it will also create a Downtown zoning district, which will allow for multi-family and multi-family mixed-use projects of all affordability levels.

  

  The City has obtained approximately $20 million in funding to develop an unhoused navigation center and housing on a parcel in downtown Manteca.

  City staff, with the support of Senator Susan Talamantes Eggman, successfully applied for, and secured, a $16 million grant from the State of California to address challenges being faced by the unhoused.  The team applied for and was granted, additional funding of $2 million from the County and the remainder comes from federal HUD Community Block Development Grant funding or CBDG.

  The Homeless Navigation Center was created to help the unhoused exit homelessness by providing various services including, but not limited to, coordinated mental health services, drug rehabilitation, temporary shelter, intensive case management, housing navigation, employment services, meals, medical care, showers, and laundry facilities.

  Beyond these services, Lundgren points out that the City is working with Vanir Construction, which is doing a progressive design-build for the new Homeless Navigation Center.  Design-build is a method of project delivery in which one entity—the design-build team—works under a single contract with the project owner to provide design and construction services.

  “This means one entity, one contract, one unified flow of work from initial concept through completion,” Lundgren points out.  Founded in 1964, Vanir is now a national leader in program, project, and construction management and real estate development.

  

  Manteca has also contracted with Mercy House, which is well known for comprehensive supportive services for a variety of unhoused populations.  As stated on its website, “Our goal is simple, it is to end the cycle of the unhoused for those who enter our system of care.”.

  Lundgren also points out that the City is partnering with Golden Valley Health Centers to provide healthcare for the unhoused.  As a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), Golden Valley follows Federal and State regulations regarding the type and quality of health services provided to anyone, regardless of their ability to pay, including free care.

  According to their website, “Golden Valley Health Centers serve all races, ages, and all walks of life.  Our staff and providers are as diverse as the patients we serve—many are bilingual and residents of the community.”

  The Manteca Police Department has been responsive to concerns related to the unhoused and continues to actively monitor incidents while respecting the rights of unhoused individuals and ensuring public safety, Mayor-at-Large Gary Singh stresses.

  

  The Management Analyst in the Housing and Homeless Division for the City is Vielka Guarascio.  “If you are living unhoused or at risk of becoming unhoused, call us at (209) 456-8556; we can assist in connecting you with accessible resources and supportive services,” says Guarascio.

  For more information on Housing and Homeless Services, please email homelessdivision@manteca.gov or call (209) 456-8556.

  Additional information is at the Manteca City website: https://www.manteca.gov.

  About Manteca

  Manteca is a full-service City with its police, fire, public works, water, trash, and sewer services. For more information call the City Manager’s office at (209) 456-8000, email Feedback@manteca.gov, or go online to https://www.manteca.gov.

  Incorporated in 1918, Manteca has a diverse population of 86,928. Manteca continues to grow at 4.1 percent a year. The City has 25,670 households with a median home price of $432,100. The median annual household income is $82,538.

• Meet Stephen Schluer, Police Chief

  October 3, 2023 6:05 pm Leave a Comment

   

  

  Stephen Schluer is the new Police Chief for the City of Manteca. He has worked for the City for 27 years.

  “Throughout my entire life, I’ve had a strong desire to contribute to my community. I was raised in Manteca and became a member of the Police Explorers program in 1987.

  “When I made the choice to pursue a career as a police officer, it was with the unwavering intention of remaining in Manteca. My goal has always been to do my part to enhance Manteca, making it a more desirable place to reside, visit, and raise a family.”

  Asked what he likes the most about his job, Schluer said, “It’s the people I work with at the Police department. Our department is rather tight-knit; it’s my second family.”

  When asked what a typical day is like, Chief Schluer responds, “A typical day involves a series of demanding and varied responsibilities. It typically begins with a morning briefing alongside senior officers and command staff, where I gain insights into ongoing investigations, emerging challenges, and departmental priorities.

  “The day involves a series of meetings with diverse stakeholders, including City officials, community leaders, representatives from other law enforcement agencies, and community organizations. Building and nurturing these relationships within the community is paramount for fostering trust and cooperation.”

  He continues, “I’m actively engaged in the continuous development and refinement of departmental policies and procedures, ensuring they adhere to evolving legal standards and align with our commitment to community safety and fairness.

  “Community engagement remains a central focus, with frequent participation in events, forums, and outreach activities aimed at ensuring transparency and building strong community bonds.

  “I also stand prepared to lead and coordinate emergency responses to significant incidents, oversee budget management to optimize resource allocation, remain in touch with the local media to convey important updates and maintain public trust, engage in long-term strategic planning to address crime reduction and community policing strategies and prioritize the ongoing training and professional development of our officers.

  “Throughout the day, I am deeply committed to problem-solving, addressing a range of community issues, and ensuring that public safety and the well-being of our community remain at the forefront of my daily duties. Adaptability, effective communication, and a strong sense of duty are essential in the demanding role of a police chief.”

  With regard to Schluer’s community involvement, over the years he has coached local youth and high school sports programs and volunteered in and participated in community events and fundraisers. “I am always looking for opportunities to be a part of the community so that I don’t lose sight of who we work for.” Other activities include:

  • Board Member, Clerk of the Board – Manteca Unified School District Board of Education, Trustee, Area 6
  • Board Member – Child Abuse Prevention Council of San Joaquin
  • Member – California Police Chiefs’ Association (CPCA)
  • Member – International Association of Police Chiefs (IACP)
  • Past Director – California School Board Association, Region 8
  • Founding Member – California School Board Association Equity Network
  • Past Board Member & Past President – Tenet Health; Doctor’s Hospital of Manteca Board of Directors
  • Board Trustee – Manteca/Lathrop Boys and Girls Club
  • Past President – Manteca Police Officers’ Association
  • Chairman – Manteca Every Fifteen Minutes Program
  • Chairman – Manteca Police Chief’s Foundation
  • President – Friends of the Manteca Parks and Rec Foundation
  • Founder and Past President – Friends of the Manteca Police Officers’ Association
  • Member – Manteca Noon Rotary
  • Kid’s Sake and Angle Tree contributor
  • Project Blue – Healthy Room Project and 10K with a cop

  Chief Schluer’s awards and recognitions include:

  • 2010 recipient of the Honorable Don Asher Memorial Police Officer of the Year Award
  • 2011 recipient of the Manteca Police Department Meritorious Service Medal
  • 2017 recipient of the “JB” Berkhart Memorial Foundation Humanitarian of the Year for the City of Manteca

• Manteca Creates Safe Routes To School

  5:50 pm Leave a Comment

  

  “The goal is to remove traffic safety concerns that may cause a hazard to children on their way to school and to provide Police presence to protect and deter traffic violators, or worse,” said Kevin Jorgensen II, Director of Engineering for the City of Manteca.

   MANTECA, CALIF.  Manteca’s  Safe Routes to School is a bicycle and pedestrian network intended to increase safety for students when commuting (walking, bicycling, or driving) to school and back home. The Safe Routes to School plan is a partnership among the City of Manteca, the San Joaquin Council of Governments, and the Manteca Unified School District.

  “The goal is to minimize traffic safety concerns that may cause a hazard to children on their way to and back home from school and to provide Police presence to protect and deter traffic violators or worse,” said Kevin Jorgensen II, Director of Engineering for the City of Manteca.

  

  Some of the traffic improvements include: (i) high visibility crosswalks; (ii) adding or replacing curb ramps at certain intersections; (iii) replacing existing crosswalks with high visibility crosswalks; (iv) replacing missing segments of sidewalks; (v) adding sidewalks on certain streets in Manteca; and (VI) adding the appropriate traffic warning and regulatory signage.

  An aging and growing community like Manteca creates both issues and opportunities when it comes to safe access to schools. Issues like single-lane roadways, country schools with no sidewalks, Highway 120, and Interstates 5 and 99 all pose unique challenges and demand our local governmental agencies to collaborate effectively to mitigate as much as possible for the issues as well as plan for the opportunities ahead.

  “In our Safe Routes to School Committee, the fusion of expertise from Manteca Unified and the City comes together to minimize traffic concerns for safe walking, bicycling, or driving routes to and from schools as well as develop plans for future safe routes in line with school modernizations,” said Dennis Foster, Manteca Unified School District’s Coordinator of Emergency Preparedness and Safety.

  “As educators, we understand that our involvement helps to provide clear communications with the City regarding areas of concern for paths of travel and begin to create an environment where every child can feel safe and learn,” added Foster.

  

  The City worked with the San Joaquin Council of Governments for Smart Growth Incentives, which made funds available for infrastructure enhancements, such as street calming, walkable community projects, transit amenities, and alternative modes of transportation that will assist local agencies in better-integrating transportation and land use.

  The County’s Measure K (Bicycle, Pedestrian, and Safe Routes to School) funded a Smart Growth Incentive Program and the Yosemite Avenue Pavement Improvement Project (bike lanes), totaling $144,000; the Union Interchange -Multi-use Path, totaling $1,440,000; Main Street Pavement Improvement Project – Bike Lanes, totaling $210,000;  and a Non-motorized Transportation Plan, totaling $240,000.

  

  The funding received, to date, from the San Joaquin Council of Governments for Manteca’s Safe Routes to School is $2,034,000.

  For more information call the City Manager’s office at (209) 456-8000, email Feedback@manteca.gov, or go to https://www.manteca.gov.

  About Manteca

  Manteca is a full-service City with police, fire, public works, water, trash and sewer services.

  Incorporated in 1918, Manteca has a diverse population of 86,928. Manteca continues to grow at 4.1 percent a year. The City has 25,670 households with a median home price of $432,100. The median annual household income is $82,538.

• Manteca Improves Its Parks for Residents to Enjoy

  August 30, 2023 2:16 pm Leave a Comment

  

  Great public parks are an essential part of a successful city. Recently, a number of the City’s 70 neighborhood parks have received upgrades for both adults and children. “Parks provide environmental, aesthetic, and recreational benefits,” says Manteca City Manager Toni Lundgren. “Parks benefit the economy and they enhance property values, increase municipal revenue, bring in homebuyers and workers, and attract retirees,” she adds.

  The Diamond Oaks neighborhood park recently got a brand-new playground. Located on Diamond Oaks Way, this renovation is sure to keep kids of all ages busy for hours.

  

  The City of Manteca’s Public Works Department is responsible for the upkeep of the City’s parks and also hires contractors to perform work. In the photo (below, center), Contractors are shown resurfacing the Tidewater Bikeway, making the path’s surface smoother for a better bike ride, walk, or skate. The multi-use Manteca Tidewater Bikeway runs north to south through the City.

  “With 3.4 miles of asphalt roadway, this trail is popular with bikers, walkers, and skaters alike. Due to heavy use, Public Works delivers ongoing maintenance to keep it in tip-top shape,” said Carl Brown, Director of Public Works.

  Brown’s team has made significant upgrades to the Northgate Community Park. Gone are the outdated restrooms and concession buildings. The new facility offers shiny new amenities with a sleek new look.

  

  “When you are ready to throw a party, picnic, or a family gathering on a sunny day, Northgate’s completely remodeled picnic shelter now provides full shade so you and your loved ones can enjoy the warm summer days, without the sunburn,” Brown points out.

  “The Tony Marshall neighborhood park includes a Pickleball Court, Cornhole, and an ‘informal’ whiffle ball field. This neighborhood park has something for everyone,” Brown continues.

  

  “The kids will also love our double playground, with vibrant neon colors sure to make them smile,” Brown adds.

  Former California Governor and longtime proponent of exercise, Arnold Schwarzenegger, says, “You can’t tell a kid that it’s time to exercise; that’s a turn-off…you have to say, ‘Let’s go to the park and have some fun!’ Then you get them to do some running, play on the swings, practice on the balance beam, and basically get a full workout disguised as play.”

   

• Meet your team: Carl Brown, Director of Public Works

  August 29, 2023 6:47 pm Leave a Comment

  

  This is a series of articles intended to introduce to the community key members of the City’s Team of employees who serve Manteca residents through their respective positions and areas of expertise.

  Carl Brown is the City’s Director of Public Works. He came to Manteca in February 2022 from the City of Turlock, where he served as Interim Director of Municipal Services and Utilities Manager; prior to that, he was Public Works Manager of Tax Services with the City of Merced, where he served for 15 years.

  “Manteca presents unique opportunities for the Director of Public Works,” Carl explains. “It is a City that is experiencing a great deal of growth. Along with growth comes the challenge of meeting the expectations of Manteca citizens and business owners, both new and existing. What happens now will shape the future,” he observes.

  Manteca Public Works Department is a full-service organization, which Carl points out, is rare among cities in the region. All services are provided by in-house staff.

  As Director of Public Works, Carl is responsible for the production and distribution of clean safe drinking water, the City’s sanitary sewer collection system and regional wastewater processing, laboratory analysis to ensure both water and wastewater meet all regulatory compliance standards, collection of all residential and commercial solid waste, upkeep and maintenance of over 600 acres of green space that includes an 18-hole municipal golf course; the City’s community facility districts and parks, streetlights, traffic signal operation, signs and markings, curb and sidewalk, environmental compliance, Manteca Transit, and the City’s storm drainage system.

  Carl begins his day by touching base with staff to ensure that, “we are firing on all cylinders,” he explains.

  Carl prioritizes the Department’s short-term and long-term planning projects, and coordinates with other City Departments as well as with outside agencies. “We constantly work on improving efficiencies and effectiveness of processes and programs and ensure that all services continue to be performed as our citizens and ratepayers expect,” he continues.

  When asked to identify the City’s current needs with regard to public works, he said, “The biggest need is an increase of general fund revenue. There are many long-standing items that need to be addresses and staff is poised to address them; but, we need the funding to carry out these efforts.” He points out, further, that it is difficult to add additional projects or programs to the budget, because the general fund budget is lean and does not have the necessary funding available for additional projects and programs without unfunding existing projects and/or programs.

• Meet Eric Culpepper, Recreation Supervisor

  August 25, 2023 9:34 pm Leave a Comment

  

  Eric Culpepper is the Recreation Supervisor for the City of Manteca. He is now in his second stint with the city; he was a part-timer from 2008 to 2011 and assumed his current role in 2019.

  “Manteca is where I was born and raised. I participated in nearly every recreation program available here as a child. I started playing football in the flag league, attended the preschool program, formed lifelong friendships at the Golden West open gym program, and even landed my first job as a lifeguard at Lincoln Pool.

  “I deeply value the influence that recreation programs have on individuals and I was immensely grateful when I got the opportunity to return and serve the residents of Manteca by overseeing the very programs that played a pivotal role in shaping my life.”

  Asked what he likes the most about his job, Eric said, “I love that I am part of the team that truly cares and shows up and gives their all every day. I don’t think I could stick around here if that wasn’t the case.”

  Eric says that his typical day is more like day, night, or weekend (laughs) work never stops. All of our programs and facilities operate and run outside of normal hours. There’s a saying in the profession: “We work when you play.” The unpredictability of the job is what makes it fun. I could be deep in the computer, in a planning meeting, running an event, or teaching a lifeguard class. It just depends on the day or the season!”

  Over the years Eric has coached local youth and high school sports programs and volunteered in and participated in several community events and fundraisers. “I am always looking for opportunities to be a part of the community so that I don’t lose sight of who we work for.”

  

  For more information call the City Manager’s office at (209) 456-8000, email Feedback@manteca.gov, or go online to https://www.manteca.gov.

• The Manteca Senior Center Gets $2.3 Million Makeover

  9:20 pm Leave a Comment

  

  “Both the community and City Council were extremely pleased with the first round of changes; as a result, the City Council and the City Manager decided to fix all of the Center’s problems to deliver an outstanding experience for the City’s growing population,” Clark explained.

  MANTECA, CALIF.   Built in 1988, the Manteca Senior Center had many outdated items including, for example, maroon, pink and blue walls; a leaky roof; floors that looked dirty no matter how hard the team scrubbed them; and an obsolete kitchen.  “It was all outdated and needed an upgrade. That’s all changed now,” said Brandy Clark, Manteca’s Recreation Services Manager.

  The total cost for the Manteca Senior Center remodel is approximately $2.3 million.

  The 10,000-plus square-foot, multi-purpose Senior Center serves adults and seniors aged 50 and above throughout the greater Manteca area from 7:30 am to 3:00 pm. After 3:00 and on weekends the Manteca Senior Center becomes the most used multipurpose facility in the City, serving 1,500 to 5,000 people a month.

  The City Council initiated the remodel with Community Development Block Grant (CBDG) funds. New carpet has been installed and a new stained concrete floor has replaced the old dirty-looking vinyl tile.

  

  “The new floors really made a difference,” said Clark. “Some of our seniors were afraid that the concrete would be slippery and make them fall. They quickly learned that the traction is actually better than it was on the tile surface.

  “Both the community and City Council were extremely pleased with the first round of changes; as a result, the City Council and the City Manager decided to fix all of the Center’s problems in order to deliver an outstanding experience for the City’s growing population,” Clark explained.

  Thus, in Phase II, the City renovated the lobby and restrooms and painted over the maroon, blue and pink walls with fresh gray and white paint, throughout.  “This really brightened up the facility and made it so much more pleasing to the eye,” said Clark.

  City Council funded Phase III by using Community Development Block Grant CBDG funds along with City capital improvement funds. A new roof replaced the old one, which had leaked for years. New air-conditioning, ventilation and heating, along with a complete kitchen renovation were part of Phase III, along with updated audio-visual system technology. Perhaps most important, the center made major strides in meeting accessibility standards mandated by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

  

  The remodel also repaired drainage problems in the kitchen and brought the fire suppression system over the stove up to the new code standards. The front desk has been retrofitted to better serve handicapped visitors and workers. The City installed new drinking fountains with two fill-up levels and a drinking bottle filler.

  New interior and exterior doors, door handles and mechanisms ensure handicapped access compliance and now meets new fire code standards.  “The old exterior doors stuck, were heavy, and hard to move. The new doors are easy to use and have handicapped access door openers. It is so much easier for our seniors to get in and out of the building now,” Clark continued.

  What do the renovations bring to the residents of Manteca?  “More comfort,” said Clark.

  “It all brings a new, updated look and feel to the Center,” she continued. “Modern technology includes a new ceiling-mounted projector, an up-to-date projection screen, and a sound system with cordless microphones. New stage curtains brighten up the viewing room.”

  

  Over 100 volunteers donate more than 10,000 hours every year in service to the Manteca Senior Center. The Center still provides many volunteer opportunities.

  For more information on classes, events or rentable spaces call the Senior Center at  (209) 456-8650.

  About Manteca

  Manteca is a full-service City with its own police, fire, public works, water, trash and sewer services.  For more information call the City Manager’s office at (209) 456-8000, email Feedback@manteca.gov, or go online to https://www.manteca.gov.

  Incorporated in 1918, Manteca has a diverse population of 86,928. Manteca continues to grow at 4.1 percent a year. The City has 25,670 households with a median home price of $432,100. The median annual household income is $82,538.

• Making City Streets Safer for Manteca Residents

  August 20, 2023 9:33 pm Leave a Comment

  

  Manteca, CALIF. — Toward making Manteca streets safer, the City’s Public Works Department has installed a dedicated left-turn lane on the bustling intersection of Daniels Street.

  “Left-turn lanes at intersections substantially reduce rear-end crashes,” says Director of Public Works, Carl Brown. More specifically, exclusive turn lanes reduce crashes by an average of 50 percent and reduce rear-end collisions between 60 and 88 percent.

  Further, Manteca’s Public Works Department is adding new speed limit signs throughout the City to ensure that motorists know posted speed regulations. “Speed limits frame expectations for motorists and other roadway users,” Brown stresses. “Properly set speed limits provide safe, consistent, and reasonable speed to protect motorists, pedestrians, and bicyclists along the roadway.”

  More bike lanes are being added for the increased number of people choosing to bike around the City.  This is intended to give both cyclists and motorists a clear picture of the cyclists’ route of travel; thus, enhancing public safety even further.

  “Bike lanes have many benefits including enhanced safety for cyclists and they help establish order in the roadway by providing a designated place for bicyclists and motorists,” Brown continues. “This improves travel behavior and predictability on multi-lane roadways and inspires more people to cycle,” he adds.

  Brown concludes, “All of these traffic enhancements make the streets of Manteca safer for all Manteca residents.”

  For more information call the City Manager’s office at (209) 456-8000, email Info@manteca.gov, or go to https://www.manteca.gov.

  

  About Manteca

  Manteca is a full-service City with police, fire, public works, water, trash, and sewer services.  For more information call the City Manager’s office at (209) 456-8000, email info@manteca.gov, or go to https://www.manteca.gov.

  Incorporated in 1918, Manteca has a diverse population of 86,928. Manteca continues to grow at 4.1 percent a year. The City has 25,670 households with a median home price of $432,100. The median annual household income is $82,538.

• Meet Kevin Jorgensen II, Director of Engineering for the City of Manteca

  August 10, 2023 9:00 pm Leave a Comment

  

  Kevin Jorgensen II is the Director of Engineering for the City of Manteca. He’s been City Engineer for the past 8 years.

  Kevin says he came to Manteca because, “I was very excited to work for a burgeoning, fast-paced City, with a vast array of challenging capital improvement and development projects. I also liked the idea of working for a government agency with a family-orientated focus.”

  When asked what he likes about his job, Kevin answered, “We have a team atmosphere, collaborative spirit, and a great group of people to work with. Work moves at a very fast pace and we often have to work cohesively with other departments to accomplish our goals.”

  Kevin describes a typical day on the job as revolving around meetings, emails, and providing staff direction, with his priorities being adjusted to meet the needs of development, capital improvement projects, and overarching City endeavors.

  He was asked to identify the City’s most significant needs from the Engineering Department’s perspective. “Our most critical and encompassing need is additional funding to keep up with the demands of a flourishing City. This is something strongly felt by all City Departments. The vast majority of City employees make every effort possible to improve the City, but there’s only so much that can be accomplished with our funding shortfalls.

  As it specifically relates to the Engineering Department, our infrastructure facilities supporting transportation, sewer, water, and storm are in constant need of maintenance, upgrades, and expansion. We simply do not have the funding to complete all of the necessary projects that greatly impact the quality of life of our residents.”

  For more information call the City Manager’s office at (209) 456-8000, email Feedback@manteca.gov, or go online to https://www.manteca.gov.

• City Officials Take Steps to Improve Manteca Streets and Enhance Public Safety

  7:31 pm Leave a Comment

  

  MANTECA, CALIF.  The City of Manteca created a Traffic Solutions Committee in 2022 to improve and create safety solutions on the City’s streets. This multi-departmental group is led by the City’s Director of Public Works, Carl Brown. Through various measures, the committee analyzes safety concerns and brings viable solutions to the City.

  As Director of Public Works, Brown has a multitude of responsibilities including streetlights, traffic signal operation, signs and markings, curbs and sidewalks, and environmental compliance. “We constantly work on improving efficiencies and effectiveness of processes and programs and ensure that all services continue to be performed as our citizens expect, he explains.

  “Improving traffic safety and reducing pedestrian injuries is the top priority of the Traffic Solutions Committee in Manteca,” Brown stresses. A few of the enhancements include the following.

  City traffic improvements such as flashing stop signs that increase visibility so people are more likely to stop. This also reduces right-angle crashes by alerting drivers of upcoming roadway changes, so they do not unintentionally run the stop sign. “Right-angle crashes are the most common type of crash that results in a fatality or serious injury at stop sign-controlled intersections,” Brown adds.

  

  New high-visibility crosswalks ensure that pedestrians and drivers have safer access when crossing the street. These alert pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists to designated pedestrian crossing areas and help give drivers enough time to react to pedestrians on the road.

  

  Speed lumps (yes, lumps, not bumps or humps), are on Hacienda Ave. and North Walnut Ave. These lumps slow down speeding cars in the neighborhoods. The speed lump is a variation on the speed hump, adding two-wheel cut-outs designed to allow large vehicles, such as emergency vehicles and buses, to pass with minimal slowing.

  

  The Committee is updating and adding pavement markings, yield limit lines, warning signs, red curbs, and street parking markings to decrease traffic accidents. A yield line, also called shark’s teeth or give-way line, is a marking used to inform drivers of the point where they need to yield and give priority to the oncoming vehicle or pedestrian traffic at an intersection or roundabout controlled by a yield sign.

  

  For more information call the City Manager’s office at (209) 456-8000, email Feedback@manteca.gov, or go online to https://www.manteca.gov.

  About Manteca

  Manteca is a full-service City with police, fire, public works, water, trash, and sewer services. For more information call the City Manager’s office at (209) 456-8000, email Feedback@manteca.gov, or go online to https://www.manteca.gov.

  Incorporated in 1918, Manteca has a diverse population of 86,928. Manteca continues to grow at 4.1 percent a year. The City has 25,670 households with a median home price of $432,100. The median annual household income is $82,538.