Ceres · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Ceres public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Regional Fire Training MOU
Ceres renewed its role in the regional fire training division with Modesto, Turlock, Stanislaus Consolidated and the county. Councilman Casey voted no, arguing Ceres pays Modesto for trained firefighters and should lease out its training facility for revenue instead.
Police Equipment Funding and Donations
Accepting a donated SWAT truck sparked a bigger question: should officers' associations have to fundraise for essential police equipment? The chief said a three-year fleet strategic plan is in the works.
Fire Prevention Week and Lithium-Ion Battery Safety
The city proclaimed Fire Prevention Week with a focus on safely charging lithium-ion devices like phones, e-bikes, and power tools, which can catch fire if damaged or misused. Residents are urged to charge on hard surfaces and keep e-bikes outside.
School resource officer contract with Ceres Unified
The council approved the agreement for Ceres police to provide SROs and law enforcement services to the school district, after asking whether the police union had reviewed it.
Illegal mobile food vending enforcement
Casey pressed the chief on weekend food vendors operating without permits; the chief pledged to shift code enforcement schedules and work with the county to confiscate equipment.
Potential litigation against or involving the City
The council met privately with its lawyer about one potential lawsuit. Residents won't know what case is involved unless it becomes public later.
County Regional Apprehension Team MOU
The city renewed a three-year agreement with the Stanislaus County Regional Apprehension Team, a multi-agency law enforcement unit, continuing regional police cooperation.
Khoshaba Tow Truck Lawsuit Settlement
The city settled the lawsuit brought by Rafid Khoshaba and Tow One Inc.; terms weren't disclosed in open session.
Emergency Dispatch Staffing
Ceres emergency dispatchers are completely overwhelmed, meaning you might have to wait longer when you dial 911. Local officials need to step in fast to fix the staffing shortage and keep emergency response times quick.