Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Riverbank public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
10 issues in taxes budget
Part-Time Employee Compensation Plan
A citywide study found Riverbank pay is a few percent behind the market at the top of the ranges. The council adopted the study and new salary schedules for both bargaining units — about $211,000 in implementation costs, aimed at recruiting and keeping staff.
City communications plan
Only seven entries came in, and council felt none fully captured Riverbank, so it extended the contest 60 days and asked for better promotion through schools and community groups.
FY 2026-27 budget and shrinking reserves
The city set up a trust to pre-fund its $10.2 million pension debt, aiming to smooth out spikes in CalPERS payments and possibly earn investment returns on set-aside funds.
Settlement in Advance Materials lawsuit; direction on Miller Arms case
The council unanimously decided to settle the Advance Materials case and gave staff direction in the Miller Arms case — both long-running suits against the city.
Annual landscaping, lighting and storm drain assessments for FY 2026/27
The council started the annual levy process for five landscaping/lighting districts and two storm drain districts (Heartlands and Sterling Ridge). Property owners in those districts will keep paying the assessments on their tax bills.
City Financial Health and FY 2024-25 Audit
Riverbank ended the year with $144.3 million in net position, up 4.5%, and a $1.45 million surplus on day-to-day operations. Sales tax revenue jumped about 23%, but the water fund is running thin with rates unchanged since 2019 — a rate study is in the works.
Affordable Housing Funding — $1.5 Million NOFA
The city has $1.5 million available for affordable housing projects, with proposals due May 4.
Budget Advisory Committee Recruitment
The city is recruiting residents for its revived budget advisory committee, which advises on the city's finances. Applications are open until April 9.
Denied Liability Claims
In closed session, the council unanimously denied liability claims from Daymon Mayfield and DT California (dba Aeriz).
System Development Fee Program Update
The city was set to hire Willdan Financial Services to update its citywide system development fees — what builders pay to fund roads, parks, and other infrastructure. Changes to these fees can affect housing costs and how much money the city has for growth-related services.