Parlier residents voice concerns over lawsuits and city leadership during council meeting

The Parlier City Council held its regular meeting on December 19, 2024, addressing several key issues and public concerns. The meeting began with an invitation for public comments, where residents expressed their thoughts on community respect and ongoing legal matters affecting the city.

Humberto Gomez opened the public comment session, emphasizing the need for mutual respect among community members as a priority for the upcoming year. He concluded with holiday wishes for the community.

Fernando Banuelos followed, congratulating newly elected council members and acknowledging all candidates who participated in the recent elections. He raised serious concerns regarding potential legal issues facing the city, including a lawsuit amounting to $1.1 million and the possibility of additional lawsuits totaling $2.5 million. Banuelos urged the council to consider a freeze on employee salary increases and overtime until these legal matters are resolved, warning that failure to do so could lead the city toward bankruptcy.

Banuelos also called for the continuation of an investigation into former Police Chief Garza, who is alleged to have embezzled $29,000. He accused the mayor of halting this investigation and suggested that those involved in obstructing it should face prosecution. He further criticized the city’s legal representation, suggesting a need for a new attorney due to lack of responsiveness.

Rachel Castillo, representing the recreation department, invited the community to attend upcoming volleyball games, highlighting the importance of local engagement in city activities.

After public comments, the council moved on to the consent calendar, where items were approved without any requests for discussion or amendments. A motion to approve the calendar was made and carried unanimously.

The meeting concluded with the council prepared to address regular business items, indicating a structured approach to ongoing city governance and community engagement. The discussions highlighted significant concerns regarding the city's financial health and the need for transparency in legal matters, setting the stage for future council actions.