Hollister · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Hollister public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Local emergency for anticipated winter storms and flooding
A resolution would proclaim a local emergency for anticipated 2026–2027 winter storms and flooding, unlocking state and county emergency assistance. It wasn't reached tonight and moves to Wednesday.
Animal Care, Control and Services
Timothy Pierson asked the council to intervene after animal control moved to destroy his two family dogs following an incident with neighborhood cats.
Hollister Police Department staffing and retention
The police union says the department has only 30 sworn officers when it should have closer to 80, with officers working more than 150 hours of overtime. Speakers warned service levels and officer safety are at risk as budget cuts loom.
$1 million Proposition 64 public safety grant accepted
The council accepted a $1 million state grant from the Board of State and Community Corrections to fund public health and safety programs through 2031.
Youth bicycle and e-bike safety
Commissioners repeatedly flagged electric bikes and scooters speeding on downtown sidewalks as a danger to shoppers and a lawsuit risk for the city. Possible fixes include an ordinance restricting them to bike lanes and better enforcement.
400 Block Parking Garage Safety and Elevator Failures
Multiple residents said the garage elevator repeatedly breaks down, cameras don't work, kids are damaging the facility, and wheelchair users can't rely on it. The city charges residents monthly fees for those spaces.
Police records system (RIMS) and records security
The city bought a $500,000 police records system with AB 109 grant funds, going live in about two months. Councilmember de Anda pressed hard on who can access sensitive records before the digital transition, and Mayor Stephens asked for a follow-up on access procedures.