Modesto council adopts police military-equipment policy, approves Tivoli housing changes and several cannabis permit moves

Modesto — The Modesto City Council on May 13 adopted a new Modesto Police Department military-equipment use ordinance required by California law, approved changes to the Tivoli specific plan that clear the way for two residential developments totaling about 159 homes, awarded a $781,195 contract for park security lighting, and approved changes to commercial cannabis permit fees plus two retail relocations.

The ordinance approving the department—s military equipment policy and a list of qualifying equipment passed on a unanimous roll call. Police Chief Brandon Gillespie told the council that the label "military equipment" is misleading for many items on the list and that some items, such as drones and less-lethal munitions, have been used by law enforcement for years: "the term military equipment ... is kind of a misnomer," Gillespie said, adding that most of the items are not acquired from the military and are routinely used for searches, perimeter operations and other responses.

Why this matters: The ordinance implements reporting and public-review requirements in state law (Assembly Bill 481) and is intended to provide an annual, transparent accounting of the department—s equipment and planned purchases. The council also voted to rescind the prior ordinance and approve the department—s updated written policy.

Housing approvals: The council approved two related Tivoli items recommended by staff and the planning commission. The first action amended the Modesto Urban Area General Plan to convert 12.66 acres from regional commercial to residential uses. The council then approved Specific Plan Amendment No. 4 to the Tivoli specific plan and granted exceptions to design standards (reduced front and rear setbacks and…