Title
Discussion to Consider Restorative Justice Mediation for the City Council
Staffreport
SUMMARY
Consistent with direction at the January 5, 2026 City Council meeting, this agenda item is scheduled to hold a discussion to consider restorative justice mediation for the City Council.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends the City Council discuss the item and provide further direction to staff if desired.
BACKGROUND
On January 5, 2026, the City Council considered an agenda item related to the public release of an independent investigation report. The report was prepared in response to a complaint submitted by Vice Mayor Bowen to the Human Resources Department.
As part of the action taken at that meeting, the City Council directed that a future agenda item be scheduled to discuss consideration of restorative justice mediation for the City Council.
The motion approved by the City Council on January 5, 2026, was as follows:
A motion was made by Councilmember Simon, seconded by Councilmember Aguilar, to: (1) release the full investigation report, including exhibits, without redactions; (2) release a summary of workplace investigation costs; and (3) agendize a discussion to consider restorative justice mediation for the City Council. The motion carried unanimously.
Consistent with that direction, staff has scheduled this agenda item to allow the City Council to discuss the potential use of restorative justice mediation.
Financial Impacts
There are no financial impacts associated with holding this discussion. Future costs may be incurred if the City Council directs staff to take additional actions, such as conducting research or contracting for mediation services.
ATTACHMENTS
None.
PREPARED BY: Sarah K. Bunting, Acting City Clerk