Council members Resendiz and Morales debate budget impacts and blame during meeting

During the recent Hollister City Council meeting held on May 21, 2025, council members addressed pressing financial challenges facing the city, emphasizing the need for transparency and collaboration moving forward.

Council member Resendiz highlighted the city's precarious budget situation, urging colleagues to heed expert advice and work closely with city staff to navigate the financial difficulties. He expressed concern over past spending decisions, including significant expenditures on a new building and increased council travel expenses, which he believes have contributed to the current budget woes. Resendiz called for a united effort among council members and the community to tackle these challenges effectively.

In response, council member Morales countered the notion of solely blaming previous councils for the budget deficit, stressing the importance of focusing on solutions rather than assigning blame. She pointed out that the city is legally required to pass a balanced budget, indicating that the financial issues have deeper roots that extend beyond recent decisions.

The council acknowledged the tough financial year ahead, with plans to tighten budgets and explore cost-saving measures. City Manager Dave provided an update on revenue reductions and the need for careful financial planning as the council prepares for the upcoming budget discussions scheduled for June 9.

In addition to budgetary concerns, the meeting included reports from council members on various community engagements. Council member Deanda shared insights from an ad hoc meeting focused on improving animal services, emphasizing a humane approach to animal care while seeking cost-effective solutions. Meanwhile, Vice Mayor Pache reported on discussions with local motorcycle clubs regarding community support and upcoming events, highlighting the importance of collaboration with diverse community groups.

As the meeting concluded, the council moved into a closed session to discuss labor negotiations and potential litigation matters, underscoring the ongoing complexities of governance in Hollister. The outcomes of these discussions will be crucial as the city navigates its financial landscape and strives to meet the needs of its residents.