Stockton council to pilot 1 p.m. meetings as city rolls out SB 707 hybrid access

The Stockton City Council voted unanimously to begin piloting a 1:00 p.m. start time for regular council meetings, while staff pledged to preserve public access through new hybrid meeting software required under SB 707.

City Clerk Catherine told the council that “so effective July 1, per SB 707, we will be holding truly hybrid meetings where the public will be able to engage, from home, through a digital format,” a shift she said will allow residents to comment remotely and preserve in‑person participation. Mayor Christina Fugazi and several council members described the change as an attempt to reduce nighttime overtime costs for staff and to free time for additional study sessions and committee work.

Opponents in public comment warned that moving regular meetings into the workday could make it harder for working residents to attend in person. “Holding meetings in the middle of a work day makes it significantly harder for everyday residents to attend,” Western Ranch resident Yolanda Amon said during public comment, urging the council not to close the door to the community.

Council members debated scheduling mechanics — including whether public comment should occur at a fixed evening hour such as 5:30 p.m. — and how closed sessions would be managed so required report‑outs remain accessible to the public. Vice Mayor Lee and others proposed holding closed session at the end of the day or immediately after adjournment and allowing members of the public to return if there is a reportable action.

After extended discussion about staff overtime and the city’s obligation under SB 707, the motion to proceed with the pilot and related scheduling adjustments passed 7‑0. City staff said the new software will queue speakers online and allow callers to be alerted when their turn to speak approaches, and that the city will publicize instructions for remote participation in June.