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Stockton Council Sends Alleged Misuse of Funds Case to Prosecutors After Turbulent Special Meeting

The vote follows revelations that a former interim city manager pledged more than $800,000 in matching funds for a state behavioral‑health grant without council approval.

Overview

  • Council voted 7-0 to refer the matter to the San Joaquin County district attorney, the grand jury, and the California attorney general for review.
  • Members approved the mayor’s proposal, 4-3, to form an investigatory ad‑hoc committee to examine allegations involving Vice Mayor Jason Lee.
  • Discussion centered on an alleged unauthorized commitment letter tied to the Behavioral Health Community Infrastructure Program grant.
  • Council pressed the city attorney on whether the commitment letter is legally binding, highlighting potential legal and fiscal implications.
  • The meeting grew confrontational, prompting a recess after an accusation by the vice mayor; residents had earlier packed chambers to protest last week’s canceled session for lack of quorum.