Background:
The homelessness crisis in Stockton has been regarded as the most
pressing policy issue facing the city. Stockton City Council, in
conjunction with City Staff, held a Homeless Study Session to
discuss first-step solutions to begin addressing the need for new
shelter innovations.
The people of Stockton have long asked for a seat at the table and
a voice in the decisionmaking process. To provide the public with
this opportunity, a survey was created to capture public
sentiments of specific policies and initiatives. This feedback
will be utilized as an informational component by the Office of
the Mayor in their potential homeless response. All responses were
confidential.
The information below serves as a summarization of the data
collected
Demographic Information
What council district do you reside in?
Note: When adding the percentages, some will not equate to 100%. This is due to normal rounding error.
POLICY OPTION 1: Safe Camping and Parking Sites
On a scale from 0 to 10, where 0 is 'very unlikely', 10 is 'very likely', and 5 is in the middle, how likely are you to support safe camping and parking sites as a homeless solution?
Safe camping and parking programs involve transitioning an unused
part of city or general land into a homeless center. Centers
provide important amenities such as bathrooms, picnic tables,
phone charging, and more. These camping and parking sites will be
monitored to protect against vandalism, theft, and to protect
those using them.
In respect to safe camping, this program would provide a central
location for homeless individuals to set up camp, providing an
alternative to the encampments spread throughout the city. If done
successfully, wrap-around services will also be provided at these
locations.
In respect to safe parking, the program allows those who are
living in their cars to park safely for a period of time and if
done successfully, wrap-around services will also be provided at
these locations.
Note: When adding the percentages, some will not equate to 100%. This is due to normal rounding error.
POLICY OPTION 2: First Time Homebuyer Down Payment Assistance
On a scale from 0 to 10, where 0 is 'very unlikely', 10 is 'very likely', and 5 is in the middle, how likely are you to support safe camping and parking sites as a homeless solution?
Down payment assistance (DPA) helps homebuyers with grants or
low-interest loans that reduce the amount they need to save for a
down payment. This assistance makes it easier for first time
homebuyers to purchase a property.
This policy would work towards creating a DPA to support and
stimulate first-time homebuyers with greater ease. The city would
create and provide this program.
Note: When adding the percentages, some will not equate to 100%. This is due to normal rounding error.
POLICY OPTION 3: First and Last Month's Rental Assistance
On a scale from 0 to 10, where 0 is 'very unlikely', 10 is 'very likely', and 5 is in the middle, how likely are you to support safe camping and parking sites as a homeless solution?
First and last month's rental assistance programs would provide
greater support for individuals being eligible to enter into
rental agreements. Often, landlords require deposits and first and
last month's rent upfront as a precondition for moving into a
property. This acts a barrier to those who do not have the savings
or resources to put forth towards those requirements.
This policy would work towards providing those who do not have the
ability to pay this lumpsum amount with financial assistance,
thereby increasing the probability an individual will be able to
rent a property.
Note: When adding the percentages, some will not equate to 100%. This is due to normal rounding error.
POLICY OPTION 4: Low to No Barrier Emergency Shelter Beds
On a scale from 0 to 10, where 0 is 'very unlikely', 10 is 'very likely', and 5 is in the middle, how likely are you to support safe camping and parking sites as a homeless solution?
Low to no barrier shelters are facilities that allow easy entry
for individuals. Some barriers that exist at medium to high
barrier shelters include the ability to bring pets, possessions,
and/or partners into a shelter, as well as requirements such as
background checks, sobriety tests, and treatment participation.
Low to no barrier shelters remove barriers like these, and others.
If done successfully, treatment, resources, and wrap-around
services would be available including but not limited to case
management, behavioral health services, rehabilitative services,
and employment assistance.
This policy would work towards increasing low to no barrier
emergency shelter beds for the homeless population to utilize.
Note: When adding the percentages, some will not equate to 100%. This is due to normal rounding error.
POLICY OPTION 5: Coordinated Entry/Navigation System
On a scale from 0 to 10, where 0 is 'very unlikely', 10 is 'very likely', and 5 is in the middle, how likely are you to support safe camping and parking sites as a homeless solution?
A Coordinated Entry/Navigation System is a process designed to
efficiently match people experiencing homelessness to available
housing, shelter, and services. It serves an initial intake point
where staff can assess the needs of the homeless individual to
diagnose and provide the necessary services and general assistance
more efficiently.
The policy would work towards creating and scaling a coordinated
entry/navigation system. This person-centered approach prioritizes
those who are most in need of assistance based upon an intake
assessment.
Note: When adding the percentages, some will not equate to 100%. This is due to normal rounding error.
Join us for the next “Coffee with Mayor Lincoln” on Thursday, April 7th at The Well. I will share an update on what's happening in the city and will answer questions from the community. Grab a cup of Colab coffee and join us for an evening of connection and conversation. See you there!
Mayor Kevin J Lincoln, II
When: Thursday, April 7th @5:30pm Where: The Well, 1200 N Center St, Stockton, CA 95202
VOLUNTEERS (18+) ARE NEEDED TO SURVEY AND ACCOUNT FOR THOSE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS FOR THE SJC POINT-IN-TIME (PIT) COUNT.
STOCKTON: Monday, January 31 at 6 AM - 5 PM
Multiple volunteer positions available.
The PIT Team and Volunteers will follow COVID-19 safety guidelines and be supported throughout the PIT Count. Trainings will be provided for volunteers.
For questions, call 209-320-6212.
Ask Stockton is designed to provide residents, businesses, and visitors with a Virtual City Hall, giving you the opportunity to access City Hall at any time with any question, concern, or request you might have. Through Ask Stockton you can search City related information and submit an inquiry or request, and the appropriate department will follow up with you.
Ask Stockton Web Portal: https://user.govoutreach.com/stockton/faq.php?cmd=shell
Ask Stockton Mobile App: http://www.stocktongov.com/files/AskStocktonApp_Instructions.pdf
If you would like to request the Mayor's participation in an event or interview, please email us using the button below. Requests for events should be made 30 days in advance. If the request includes the Mayor speaking or presenting, please indicate that in the description field detailing your desire.
Events RequestsIf you would like to request a proclamation, commendation, or certificate from the Mayor's Office, please complete the certificate request form and submit the completed form and all supporting documentation using the ceremonial requests button below. Requests should be made a minimum of 30 days in advance and are subject to approval.
Ceremonial Requests Certificate Request FormIf you would like to contact the mayor's office for questions or comments:
General ContactCity Council Meetings take place on Tuesdays at 5:30pm, twice a month. The public is encouraged to participate in these meetings by reading the agenda, making public comment, and attending/watching the meeting.
City Council Meeting Agendas
Stocktonians are known for our grit, resiliency, and commitment to community. Our city has come together to address the fundamental needs of our communities with innovation and collaboration. Through public, private, non-profit partnerships, we address the root causes of our most critical issues and provide real solutions for homelessness, housing, public safety, economic opportunity, community well-being, and youth programming. Stockton is growing, healing, and investing in the success of our future. Stockton will become the best city in America to live, raise a family, and grow a business, and we are achieving this vision together, as one One Stockton.
Over 80% of Stockton residents view homelessness as a humanitarian crisis affecting the quality of life of the entire city. Homelessness is a very complex issue, requiring a multi-faceted approach to ensure a compassionate response for those experiencing homelessness and improved quality of life for all Stocktonians. Through public-private-nonprofit partnerships, our collective intent is to uplift those experiencing homelessness and decrease overall homelessness in our city. The City of Stockton has taken significant steps to address the complex issues related to homelessness and Stocktonians continue to express empathy for our unhoused. However, it is not compassionate for individuals and families to remain homeless in our parks and public spaces. The City's active partnerships have collectively secured financial resources, made strategic investments, and enacted legislative solutions.
Progress by the Numbers:
Progress through Policy:
Progress on Housing & Helping the Homeless through Partnerships:
Progress through Strategic Investment:
CY 2020, 8,034 Annual estimate of number of people accessing services who are experiencing homelessness; CY 2021, 6,137 Annual estimate of number of people accessing services who are experiencing homelessness; Data Source, California Interagency Council on Homelessness, HDIS reports for CA -511 Stockton/San Joaquin County CoC. Jan. 2019, 921 people experiencing unsheltered homelessness in Stockton; Jan. 2022, 893 people experiencing unsheltered homelessness in Stockton; Data Source, San Joaquin Continuum of Care, Point in Time Count Reports for 2019 and 2022 CY 2020, 3,520 Annual Estimate of # of people who become homeless for the first time; CY 2021, 2,974 Annual Estimate of # of people who become homeless for the first time; Data Source, California Interagency Council on Homelessness, HDIS reports for CA -511 Stockton/San Joaquin County CoC. Source Reports can be found at: http://www.sanjoaquincoc.org/point-in-time-sjc/ and https://bcsh.ca.gov/calich/hdis.html On February 15, 2023, at the Council Planning Workshop (see page 60), it was reported that 2022 accomplishments include 605 New housing units on issued building permits, including 53 low-income units and 60 accessory dwelling units. On September 27, 2022 , Council, through item, 12.2 , approved Ordinance 2022-09-27-1202 adding protection of Critical Infrastructure and wildfire risk areas. On November 16, 2021 , Council, through item, 12.8, approved Resolution 2021-11-16-1208 establishing an Ad-Hoc Homelessness Committee to serve in an advisory capacity to and review proposals and progress on the efforts toward addressing homelessness within the City. Most recent council action on Clean City Initiative was on March 21, 2023 as Council adopted their one page strategic plan for 2023-24 which includes Expanding the Clean City initiative; See item 15.4 City Council/Successor Agency to the Redevelopment Agency/Public Financing Authority/Parking Authority Concurrent (granicus.com) On July 26, 2022 , Council, through item 12.17, approved Resolution 2022-07-26-1217 awarding a multi-year Service Contracts for Debris Removal and Pickup.
See Mayor's and CEO's website: https://housinginvestment.org/
See BCM Twitter Page: https://twitter.com/CABigCityMayors
See BCM Twitter post on Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention (HHAP) funding BCM advocated for and secured in the state budget https://twitter.com/CABigCityMayors/status/1542536893329395712?cxt=HHwWgMCqvbfImOgqAAAA See BCM Twitter post on Care Courts that BCM advocated for and was signed into law by Governor https://twitter.com/CABigCityMayors/status/1570508729740853248?cxt=HHwWgIDUjc3XyMsrAAAA See BCM Twitter post on December 23, 2022 state budget request letter for the upcoming FY 2023-24 year: https://twitter.com/CABigCityMayors/status/1611029766299176963?cxt=HHwWhsC-7a3Cw9ssAAAA On March 21, 2023 , Council, through item 15.3, approved Motion 2023-03-21-1503 to enable the city to apply for a grant award for a shelter program serving homeless individuals, and if awarded, accept and appropriate grant and ARPA funding. Included in the legislative text was statistics on the number of existing shelter beds (554) as well as shelter beds in the pipeline (180 Stockton Shelter Expansion; 250 St. Mary's Dining Room). See link to City's homelessness webpage: http://www.stocktongov.com/government/departments/manager/homelessness/cityResponse.html December 14, 2021, Council, through item 15.4, Authorized and allocate $6,050,000 of American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA) Funding to provide the required funding match for the Housing Authority of San Joaquin County's (HASJC) application for HomeKey funding. May 3, 2022, Council, through item 10.1, Approved Approved the FY 2022-23 Annual Action Plan for the Community Development Block Grant, HOME Investment Partnership, and Emergency Solutions Grant Programs which included $90,000 for the Children's Home of Stockton's application (page 56) for the. Also see: https://www.chstockton.org/Our-Programs/Catalyst-Program and https://stockton.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=&clip_id=7970&meta_id=704991 https://stockton.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=&clip_id=7970&meta_id=704991 http://stockton.legistar.com/gateway.aspx?M=F&ID=4f1b484e-c1ac-4cd5-902a-ff8234711271.pdf May 3, 2022, Council, through item 10.1, Approved the FY 2022-23 Annual Action Plan for the Community Development Block Grant, HOME Investment Partnership, and Emergency Solutions Grant Programs which included $75,000 for the Gospel Center Rescue Mission Homeless 211 Navigation Center and Homeless Clothing Room Expansion application (page 207). On June 22, 2021, Council, through item 15.2, Approved an allocation of nine affordable housing loans which included $600,000 for the Liberty Square Apartments. On March 21, 2023, Council, through item 15.1, received an update on the Community Well-Being Crisis Intervention Program Update. Previously, on July 26, 2022, Council, through item 15.3, approved Approve (Motion 2022-07-26-1503) to Award a Professional Services Contract to Community Medical Centers of Stockton, CA in the Not-to-Exceed amount of $5,760,000 to develop and implement a crisis intervention response pilot program for three years with American Rescue Plan Act funds under Project MARP101. On February 15, 2023, at the Council Planning Workshop (see page 59), it was reported that 5,200 families received $40 M + through the Emergency Rental Assistance Programs (ERAP). Background: on August 24, 2021, Council, through item 15.1, received an update on ERAP; and through item 15.2, Approved Resolution 2021-08-24-1502 to accept and appropriate grant funding from the united states department of treasury emergency rental assistance program ($11 M) and from the state of California emergency rental assistance program ($8.8 M); and to approve the allocation of funds. Previously, on February 23, 2021, City Council, through item 15.3, Approved ERAP 1 funding in the combined state ($10 M) and federal ($9.2 M) amount of $19.3 M. On November 15, 2022, Council, through item 12.5, Approve Motion 2022-11-15-1205 the recommended list of Community Support Grant Program awardees in the total amount of $2,678,900.
Stockton has seen tremendous growth in the past decade, with a 10% increase in population. We are the 11th largest city in California, ranked 13th in the nation for positive momentum growth, and the 16th most fiscally sound city in the nation. Stockton is open for business and investment! Below are some of the things we've been working on in the space of Economic Development:
On February 22, 2023, Council held a Study Session On Projects Funded By The American Rescue Plan Act. Included was a detailed update (page 64) on the Business Façade Improvements Program. Background: September 14, 2021, through item 15.1, Council approved the City of Stockton's American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding distribution which included $1,350,000 for Business Façade Improvements Program. Also see: http://www.stocktonca.gov/files/2012_Facade_Improvement.pdf and Legislation Text - 2023-03-24T095604.433.pdf. On February 15, 2023, at the Council Planning Workshop (see page 68), it was reported that 2022 accomplishments include: $285,000 in Entrepreneurship funding awarded. On February 15, 2023, at the Council Planning Workshop (see page 67), it was reported that 2022 accomplishments include: 3,300+ New business licenses. On December 6, 2022, Council, through item 12.6, approved Resolution 2022-12-06-1206 authorizing an amendment to the Visit Stockton contract allowing the City to support years two and three of the Stockton Flavor Fest. Background: September 14, 2021, through item 15.1, Council approved the City of Stockton's American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding distribution which included $8.87 million for Small Business Support / Economic Recovery, under which $1.8 million was approved for Event Programming. Additional information: https://www.stocktonflavorfest.com/ On February 15, 2023, at the Council Planning Workshop (see page 69), it was reported that 2022 accomplishments include: 41 Artists and Arts Nonprofit Grant recipients. On July 26, 2022, Council, through item 12.13, approved Motion 2022-07-26-1213 approving and authorizing the City to enter into a contract with the United Way of San Joaquin County in the amount of $727,000 for the purposes of providing capacity building programming to Stockton's nonprofit community. Also see: United Way Proposal and https://www.unitedwaysjc.org/nest
From expanding access to technology to developing original methods of governance, Stockton will operate like no other city—with data-driven purpose, technological competency, and digital equity. Some of the ways we are actively approaching digital democracy include:
Data-Driven Governance:
The City of Stockton is leveraging the Office of Performance and Data Analytics (OPDA) to enable the city of Stockton to deliver better, faster, and smarter services. Through the data analysis, we are making our government more efficient, transparent, and accessible to the community. See the City of Stockton's Office of Performance and Data Analytics Open Data Portal here: https://data.stocktonca.gov/
Digital Equity Initiative:
This initiative will expand broadband to disproportionately impacted communities oftentimes located in “digital deserts”, increase public Wi-Fi access, and equitably increase home internet access throughout the city.
In 2022 we distributed 2,050 laptops and/or tablets with Wi-Fi access and hotspots to families lacking internet access and devices. Along with the devices, families have ongoing access to digital coaching in multiple languages.
See website: https://data.stocktonca.gov/
The Digital Equity Project has been made possible with federal funding from the American Rescue Plan Act
(ARPA). The City of Stockton has purchased 1,550 Chromebooks, hot spots, and 500 data-enabled tablets.
These devices come with 3 years of prepaid internet access service. See:
https://www.stocktonca.gov/government/departments/communityServices/digitalequityproject.html
On February 15, 2023, at the Council Planning Workshop (see page 73), it was reported that 2022
accomplishments include: 2000 individuals received Chromebooks with hotspots and tablets.
Keeping Stocktonians safe is at the top of the list when it comes to Council priorities. The City of Stockton has several programs and strategies in place to respond to, intervene in, and prevent crimes and public safety concerns from taking place. We use a data-driven approach to regularly assess our progress and impact. In addition to our Police Department, Office of Violence Prevention, Public Works, and Municipal Utilities departments, we regularly engage with local non-profits and community organizations that are active in the space of public safety and public health. Public safety is a shared responsibility and the role of the community is crucial. When everyone makes public safety a priority, our community as a whole is safer. If you see something, say something. Residents can report crime or concerns by calling 911, our non-emergency police line (209) 937-8377, Ask Stockton at stocktonca.gov/askstockton or anonymously submit tips at www.stocktoncrimestoppers.org and (209) 946-0600.
Measurements from our 2022 public safety impact:
Some of the programs and initiatives launched in 2022
On February 15, 2023, at the Council Planning Workshop (see page 63), it was reported that 2022 accomplishments include: 2% decrease in violent crime; 918 firearms seized; 1,900 + vehicles abated; 1 million square feet of graffiti removed. https://stockton.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=48&clip_id=7970&meta_id=722455 On February 15, 2023, at the Council Planning Workshop (see page 66), it was reported that 2022 accomplishments include: 2,400 tons of trash/debris removed.
On March 21, 2023, Council, through item 15.1, received an update on the Community Well-Being Crisis Intervention Program Update. Previously, on July 26, 2022, Council, through item 15.3, approved Approve (Motion 2022-07-26-1503) to Award a Professional Services Contract to Community Medical Centers of Stockton, CA in the Not-to-Exceed amount of $5,760,000 to develop and implement a crisis intervention response pilot program for three years with American Rescue Plan Act funds under Project MARP101.
On September 28, 2021, Council, through item 12.3, approved Resolution 2021-09-28-1203 authorizing submittal of a grant application in the amount of up to $700,000 to the California Department of Parks and Recreation Office of Grants and Local Services for the Outdoor Equity Grants Program at Williams Brotherhood Park.
October 4, 2022, Council, through item 15.1, approved Resolution 2022-10-04-1501 accepting $2,019,656 in grant funding from the State of California Board of State Community Corrections California Violence Intervention and Prevention (CalVIP) Grant. The Office of Violence proposes to build on their success by expanding Ceasefire strategies –with a focus on youth ages 12-17 while also creating a youth prevention/intervention program focused on deterring people from violence.
See SPD YES Program webpage at http://ww1.stocktonca.gov/Departments/Police/Programs-and-Services/YES-Program
The youth are our future and our greatest investment. The median age of a Stocktonian is about 39 years old and a third of our population is under 18 years of age. We are a young city, which is why my colleagues and I prioritized youth programming and development in Stockton. In addition to creating new programs and partnerships centered on youth, we have adjusted existing City programs to include youth-focused strategies and investments. It is our goal to work with local partners to expand youth programming to improve the quality of life, increase literacy, develop the workforce, and reduce crime. Some of the programs and initiatives include:
On September 13, 2022, Council, through item, 15.1, Approve Motion 2022-09-13-1501 approving entering into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) providing Stockton Unified School District's (SUSD) Family Resource Program space to operate in the City's Micro Libraries at Stribley and Arnold Rue Community Centers. https://stockton.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=48&clip_id=8093&meta_id=717363 On December 14, 2021, Council, through item, 15.8, Approve Resolution 2021-12-14-1508 authorizing the City Manager to apply for, accept, and appropriate grant funds for the CaliforniansForAll Youth Workforce Development Program in the amount of $4,355,097. October 4, 2022, Council, through item 15.1, approved Resolution 2022-10-04-1501 accepting $2,019,656 in grant funding from the State of California Board of State Community Corrections California Violence Intervention and Prevention (CalVIP) Grant. The Office of Violence proposes to build on their success by expanding Ceasefire strategies with a focus on youth ages 12-17 while also creating a youth prevention/intervention program focused on deterring people from violence. On February 15, 2023, at the Council Planning Workshop (see page 64), it was reported that 2022 accomplishments include 11 Parks with repaired playground structures. On December 14, 2021, Council, through item, 12.5 , approved Resolution 2021-12-14-1205-01 authorizing the submittal of grant applications to the California State Parks Local Assistance Specified Grants via the California Department of Parks and Recreation Office of Grants and Local Services for two projects: 1. Aquatic Facilities Renovation & Replacement in the amount of $5,400,000; and 2. Dentoni Park Playground Equipment Replacement in the amount of $250,000. On May 3, 2022, Council, through item 9.3, approved Resolution 2022-05-03-0903 approving Option B allocating $5,000,000 to trees, $4,000,000 to sidewalks, $1,100,000 to Pixie Woods and $100,000 Oak Park baseball fields improvements.
Stockton's Mayor's Office and our local government structure.
Kevin Lincoln
Marla Livengood
Dana Sovinec
Erika Williams
Mayor Kevin J. Lincoln was elected to office in November 2020. He is serving his first term as Mayor of Stockton beginning January 2021.
Born in Stockton, Mayor Lincoln was raised in an Army family and was inspired to serve others. Throughout his youth, Kevin served in many community outreach programs providing food and clothes to the homeless and those in need. Kevin also volunteered at the California Youth Authority where he spoke to and encouraged youth in the juvenile justice system.
With a desire to serve his Country, Kevin joined the United States Marine Corps (USMC) in 2001 and began his training at the military police academy. Kevin was later recruited by the White House Military Office and assigned to Marine One, where he would serve President George W. Bush.
Following his service in the military, Kevin worked for one of the nation's top private security companies for eight years in the Silicon Valley. He would ultimately serve as District Manager, responsible for an annual budget of over 55 million, a district support staff of 22 personnel, and a total employee base of over 1300.
In 2013 Kevin felt the desire to resign his corporate position to serve the community of Stockton through full-time ministry at a local church. In his ministry work, Kevin served as the Executive Administrative Pastor overseeing the finances, implementation of the vision, daily operations, as well as community outreach initiatives. Kevin gets the most fulfillment by assisting those in need and helping them find the resources that will aid them and give them hope.
Kevin's decision to run for mayor stemmed from this love of people, and desire to serve the City of Stockton. Mayor Lincoln believes Stockton will become the best city in America to live, raise a family, and grow a business. He is focused on addressing the fundamental needs of our community through public, private, and non-profit partnerships. His key focus areas are homelessness and housing, youth programming and development, public safety, economic development, and community well-being.
Kevin has an Associates of Arts in Business, Bachelor of Science in Business Management, and a Master's Degree In Executive Leadership.
Kevin and his wife Bonnie have been married for 21 years and have two wonderful children.
To schedule a meeting with Mayor Lincoln please call (209) 937-8499.
Marla Livengood was appointed Senior Policy Advisor to Stockton City Mayor, Kevin J. Lincoln II, in November 2021. She assists the mayor in researching and advancing Council policy priorities, objectives, and initiatives for the City of Stockton.
Born and raised in Stockton, Marla attended Lincoln Unified Schools. She continued her education at CSU, Fresno, where she received a bachelor's degree in Agricultural Economics.
Marla is thankful to have served Stockton and San Joaquin County in various capacities including Senior Policy Director for a private consulting firm, Regulatory Affairs Manager for the California Strawberry Commission, Legislative Affairs Manager for San Joaquin Regional Transit District, Congressional Legislative Director for a U.S. Representative, and has served as a local government advocate and consultant. Her experience representing elected officials and government entities at the local, state, and federal level, provides her with a firm grasp of Stockton's policy intricacies. She is honored to assist Mayor Lincoln and to work with the Council in pursuing the vision for Stockton.
Marla is married to her husband Ray, and they have three children.
Erika was appointed Executive Assistant to Stockton Mayor Kevin J. Lincoln II, in August of 2022. She assists the mayor in providing administrative support, scheduling, and constituent correspondence.
Erika is a born and raised Stocktonian. She attended elementary and middle school at St. Gertrude's and continued her high school education at St. Mary's High School. Upon graduation, Erika moved to San Diego to attend college and pursue a career in the medical field.
Erika later returned to her hometown of Stockton, spending 14 years working as an Administrative Assistant. For the past 5 years, Erika worked as an Executive Administrative Assistant for various medical and department directors at the Health Plan of San Joaquin.
Erika is excited to join Mayor Lincoln's team and is looking forward to making a positive impact within her city and for the people of Stockton
Erika is very proud mother of 3 and loves spending time with her children.
Dana Sovinec was appointed Public Information Officer to Stockton City Mayor, Kevin J. Lincoln II in January 2021. She serves as the communications, media relations, and creative lead for the Office of the Mayor.
As a born and raised Stocktonian, Dana attended John Addams Elementary, Webster and Sierra Middle, and Lincoln High School. She continued her education at CSU, Sacramento, where she received a Bachelor of Arts in Government and Sociology.
She went on to work for Governor Schwarzenegger in various roles within Economic Development, Communications, and Constituent Affairs. She also worked for Governor Jerry Brown, prior to moving back to Stockton to accept the role of Creative Productions Coordinator and Worship Arts Assistant at Quail Lakes Baptist Church.
Dana fell in love with government when she was first introduced to the subject in the 8th grade. It was then she knew that public service was a path she would devote her life to.
Prior to her appointment, Dana served as a Policy Analyst and the Director of Strategic Communications for Kevin Lincoln's Mayoral campaign.
Dana is incredibly honored and excited to serve the city she loves in the role of Public Information Officer and looks forward to the wonderful work ahead.
Dana is married to her husband Tim, and they have two beautiful children.
Council-Manager Form Of Government
In the Council-Manager form of government, the City Council is the governing body of the city, elected by the public to serve the people, and the City Manager is hired by the council to carry out the policies it establishes. The council consists of seven members, including the Mayor who is elected by the people as defined in the city charter.
The council provides legislative direction, while the city manager is responsible for day-to-day administrative operations of the city based on the council's recommendations. The mayor and council, as a collegial body, are responsible for setting policy, approving the budget, and determining the tax rate. The manager serves as the council's chief advisor. City Managers also serve at the pleasure of the council and are responsible for preparing the budget, directing day-to-day operations, and hiring and firing personnel.
Each Council Member represents and serves a district within the city and resides in that district. The Mayor represents the entire city and is the Chair of City Council.
