Stockton, CA — Today, the 2023-2024 San Joaquin County Civil Grand Jury (Grand Jury) released its report investigating the Tracy City Council. The City of Tracy has been plagued with a city council that cannot form a civil, cohesive governing body willing to set aside differences and personal agendas for the benefit of City residents. The 2018-2019 Civil Grand Jury issued a report entitled “Restore the Public Trust”. That investigation highlighted the inability of the Tracy City Council to work together cohesively, manifested by unprofessional behavior towards each other during public meetings. In addition, a consistent 3/2 voting block existed leading to the termination or forced resignation of a City Manager, Assistant City Manager, and Police Chief. The unexplained departures of the City’s administrative leaders created an unstable working environment at City Hall. The most significant recommendation in that report was for the Council to establish a Code of Conduct to guide them on how to work together more effectively and respectfully.
The Grand Jury reviewed various City of Tracy and Council records and interviewed several officials, employees, City of Tracy citizens, residential and commercial developers, and a San Joaquin County employee.
The Grand Jury found there is continued disfunction among the elected officials of the Tracy City Council and made recommendations within the areas of the City Council, the City Attorney, and City Council hired staff. Some of the Grand Jury’s recommendations include, but are not limited to:
- By October 1, 2024, members of the City Council need in-depth and continuous training on the understanding and the effective utilization of the City of Tracy Code of Conduct, City of Tracy Council Meeting Protocols and Rules of Procedures, and Rosenberg’s Rules. Members of the City Council and the City Attorney should refer to the League of California Cities: Counsel and Council: A Guide to Building a Productive City
- By October 1, 2024, an outside legal firm should be engaged to help expedite the current work backlog in the City Attorney’s office.
The public is encouraged to read the complete report by visiting the Grand Jury’s website.
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