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Salinas council excuses absent member Barajas; public criticism raises transparency questions
Summary
The Salinas City Council voted May 5 to excuse Councilmember Jose Barajass three consecutive absences and approved a medical leave through June 30, 2026 after the city received a letter from his attorney; multiple public commenters and several council members said the process lacked timely transparency and urged clearer public notification and air-monitoring action on pesticide concerns.
The Salinas City Council voted May 5 to excuse Councilmember Jose Barajas for three consecutive missed meetings and approved a leave of absence through June 30, 2026 after staff presented a letter from Barajass legal counsel asking for excusal on medical grounds.
City Attorney said the council received a written request on April 27 and noted that Salinas Charter section 6.2 provides that a member absent from three consecutive regular meetings forfeits the seat unless excused for illness or city business. "Councilmember Barajas has missed 3 consecutive city council meetings…
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