Pinole City Council Addresses Land Acknowledgment and City Manager Evaluation Concerns

The Pinole City Council convened on September 2, 2025, to address several key agenda items, beginning with the Pledge of Allegiance and a land acknowledgment recognizing the Ohlone people as the traditional custodians of the land.

Following the opening formalities, City Clerk Bell confirmed the attendance of council members and noted that the agenda had been posted in compliance with legal requirements. A minor correction was made to item 9e, and it was announced that item 10A would be continued to the next meeting on September 16.

The council then moved into closed session to discuss three items: labor negotiations, anticipated litigation regarding national prescription opioid litigation, and the performance evaluation of the city manager. Public comments were invited on these closed session items, with one resident expressing significant concerns about the city manager's performance. The speaker criticized the manager for a perceived lack of urgency in addressing public issues, inadequate communication, and the cancellation of a previous council meeting without proper notice. The resident emphasized the need for improved public engagement and accountability from city leadership.

After the closed session, the council reconvened in open session at approximately 7:15 PM. It was reported that there was no action to report from the labor negotiations or the city manager's performance evaluation. However, the council directed the city attorney to approve a settlement in the opioid litigation, with further details to be provided once the agreement is executed.

The meeting concluded with a call for citizens to be heard, indicating a continued commitment to public engagement in city governance. The council's discussions reflect ongoing efforts to address community concerns and improve city management practices.