e) Authority to inspect grease producing facilities, enforcement authorities, and whether the Enrollee has sufficient staff to inspect and enforce the FOG ordinance.
Environmental Programs Division (EPD) is responsible for performing FOG source control inspections of food service establishments.
f) An identification of sanitary sewer system sections subject to FOG blockages and establishment of a cleaning maintenance schedule for each section.
FOG prone sections of the sewer system, called "Hot Spots", are identified by LADPW throughout the CSMD during routine maintenance operations and investigation of stoppages and SSOs. These portions of the sewer system found to have persistent FOG problems are put on monthly, quarterly or semi-annual periodic cleaning schedule, depending on the magnitude. g)
Development and implementation of source control measures for all sources of FOG discharged to the sanitary sewer system for each section identified in (f).
Solidified fats found in the collection system during LADPW cleaning operations are trapped, collected and taken to their maintenance yard bins for disposal. FOG in liquid form is flushed by hydro jetting to the downstream treatment facilities for treatment and disposal
Reference: City of Bell Gardens 2019 SSMP
Recommendation: The City of Bell Gardens complies with the FOG program based on the contractual agreement with LACO. More information from the LADPW FOG program needs to be included in the 2025 SSMP update.
I t o and cit ssur c ( ) t to
r . viii
Review the SSMP to determine if it complies with the State Order by having a Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) that considers (a) Evaluation of those portions of the system that is experiencing SSO discharges due to hydraulic deficiency, (b) Design Criteria commensurate with the system, (c) Capacity Enhancement Measures and steps to address short term and long term CIP goals and an implementation schedule, and (d) Schedule for completion of the necessary things -to-do that were developed in items D.13. viii (a) - (c) above.
Sufficiency: Partial Compliance
Findings: During the 2007 Sanitary Sewer Master Plan, the system was evaluated, and 16 City of Bell Gardens
SSMP Audit
upgrades were recommended based on these results. The following were addressed in the 2019 SSMP:
1) Evaluation: Actions needed to evaluate portions of the Sanitary Sewer System that are experiencing or contributing to an SSO discharge caused by hydraulic deficiency.
The Sewer Master Plan was limited to 237,282 linear feet of gravity sewer mains, ranging in size from 8 to 21 inches in diameter, within the City boundary that eventually drains to the City of South Gate's sewer facilities in the southern part of the City. Based on the output from the collection system model for existing and future loading conditions, hydraulic deficiencies were identified within the system. 2) Design Criteria: Where design criteria do not exist or are deficient, undertake the evaluation to establish appropriate design criteria.
A total of 201 sewer pipes with flows that exceeded the design capacity were identified and recommended for replacement in order to remediate the hydraulic deficiency using the existing slope.
3) Capacity Enhancement Measures: The steps needed to establish a Tong -term CIP to address identified hydraulic deficiencies including prioritization, alternatives analysis, and schedules.
One of the objectives of the 2007 Sanitary Sewer Master Plan was to construct a hydraulic model of the sewer system to determine whether the capacity of the system is adequate to handle the dry and wet weather flows. The hydraulic analysis was conducted by using the MIKE SWMM modeling software to determine how the system reacts to the flow information and design criteria entered into the program. 4) Schedule: Develop a schedule of completion dates for all portions of the CIP to be reviewed and updated consistent with the SSMP audit and update.
According to the 2007 Sanitary Sewer Master Plan, the proposed improvements would be constructed over a 9 -year period beginning during the 2008-2009 fiscal year and continued through the 2018-2018 fiscal year.
Reference: City of Bell Gardens 2019 SSMP
Recommendation: The City of Bell Gardens could not locate a copy of the 2007 Master Plan when performing this audit. A new Master Plan with CIP is recommended for short - and long-term projects within the city. Between 2010-2012, the system was videoed using 17 City of Bell Gardens
SSMP Audit
CCTV and reports will be attached to SSMP update. According to LADPW, 209,014 LF was videoed in 2022 and is still under review.
SU
ent
fie ti to r er
Review the SSMP to determine if it complies with the State Order by (a) maintaining relevant information that can be used to establish and prioritize appropriate SSMP activities, (b) monitoring the implementation and, where appropriate, measure the effectiveness of each element of the SSMP, (c) assessing the success of the preventative maintenance program, (d) updating program elements, as appropriate, based on monitoring or performance evaluations, and (e) identifying and illustrating SSO trends, including frequency, location and volume.
Sufficiency: In Compliance
Findings:
1) Maintain the relevant information that can be used to establish and prioritize SSMP activities.
The SSMP states that the city receives quarterly reports regarding the performance of the sewer system within the City and the number of SSOs. The City utilizes these reports to assess the effectiveness of the SSMP and to determine if modifications are necessary to improve the performance of the sanitary sewer system within the City. 2) Monitor the implementation and, where appropriate, measure the effectiveness of each element of the SSMP.
The SSMP utilizes a Table to address each Element, Summary of the Element Purpose and Parameters for Tracking Effectiveness which helps in evaluating the overall effectiveness of the SSMP.
3) Assess the success of the preventative maintenance program The City contracted CSMD and LADPW to perform regular system maintenance including CCTV, hydro jetting, Manhole inspection and repair and SSO clean-up. 4) Update program elements, as appropriate, based on monitoring or performance evaluations
City staff will update critical information and update periodically to maintain current information and programs that need to be enhanced or modified if they are determined to be less effective than needed.
5) Identify and illustrate SSO trends including frequency, location and volume 18 City of Bell Gardens
SSMP Audit
The mapping of SSO frequencies is presented in monthly numbers of charts and graphs prepared by CSMD. The graphs are used to identify SSO trends and evaluate overall program effectiveness. Indicators from these graphs are used as indicators of possible I/I issues and evaluated annually as part of the performance parameters of the SSMP.
Reference: City of Bell Gardens 2019 SSMP
Recommendation: The City of Bell Gardens utilizes reports generated by LADPW and CSMD. The City sewer maps shall be regularly updated with every sewer collection system change as often as necessary.
1 r ra u t
tat r e
As a part of the SSMP, city shall conduct periodic audits. At a minimum these audits must occur every three years and a report must be prepared and kept on file. These audits shall focus on the effectiveness of the SSMP, compliance with State Order requirements, identification of any deficiencies and steps to correct them.
Sufficiency: In Compliance
Findings: The City of Bell Gardens has embarked on this audit of its SSMP with timeliness to allow the auditor adequate time to investigate, gather evidence, analyze and then report sufficiency and findings, and finally, to make recommendations when appropriate.
The City has conducted the current the SSMP Audit and concurrent SSMP Audit Report at a minimum of every three years and will continue to do so for the next three year deadline occurring in 2028.
Reference: City of Bell Gardens 2019 SSMP
Recommendation: Re -certification of the SSMP is required when significant updates to the SSMP are made. Updates are required every 6 years at a minimum.
The SSMP must be re -certified every 6 years utilizing the previous audits and SSMP report. This report must be resubmitted to the City Council for approval and recertification and then uploaded on the CWIQS website by the City's Legally Responsible Official (LRO).
11, : : u c ti r ra State r er 1
Review the activities of staff to determine if they have complied with the State Order by 19 City of Bell Gardens
SSMP Audit
(a) communicating the performance of the SSMP with the public, and (b) providing the public and the Los Angeles County Sanitation District the opportunity to provide input.
Sufficiency: Partial Compliance
Findings: The SSMP did not specifically address the current method of communication from LADPW and the City to the residents of the City of Bell Gardens. Key considerations for developing a communications program were addressed and further exploration will be needed when updating the SSMP.
Reference: City of Bell Gardens SSMP
Recommendation:
The City should develop a communication mechanism with LAPDW which will establish ongoing discourse on a continual and regular basis. Additionally, the city should identify resources necessary to solicit and incorporate input on each phase of the SSMP (development, implementation, and performance), as well as document the city's outreach efforts. Creating a list of key milestones in each phase with stakeholder input would be most useful and effective.
Suggestions include:
• Development of a variety of communication methods including newsletters, public meetings, web pages, and public service announcements. Different agencies will find the different communication methods effective.
• Develop a section on the city's website with the other agencies (LADPW, CSMD) and share costs. The website could contain general information about Waste Discharge Requirements and SSMP components. In addition, make available documents available for public review, and contain contact, meeting times and locations, and other agency -specific information.
• Los Angeles County, on behalf of the city, will provide communication with other satellite agencies, conduct regular coordination meetings, annual surveys for changes in their system, and/or web pages devoted to satellite agency issues. • The city must make sure there is a designated staff person responsible for coordination. This person will ensure that the program is sustained, and the City's efforts to get the program up and running are sustained once the SSMP is complete.
Copies of the SSMP should be maintained and available for stakeholders and interested 20 City of Bell Gardens
SSMP Audit
parties upon request. The city can choose to make the SSMP available to anyone via the City's website or requested at City Hall.
21 City of Bell Gardens
SSMP Audit
t e f cati n
SSMP Audit Reviewed By: 2:7csU
Douglas Benash
City Engineer
City of Bell Gardens
SSMP Audit Approved By:
Bernardo Iniguez
Public Works/Facilities Director
City of Bell Gardens
22 City of Bell Gardens
SSMP Audit
City of BeII Gardens SSO Audit Process
Date: 2 -Apr -25
Prepared By:
Direction
Rachel Lee, Bowman
,;For each NO answer, ple
se describe the planned rev
SSMP element and question number with each explanation, on and indica
ELEMENT 1- GOALS
YES
NO
A. Are the goals stated in the SSMP still appropriate and accurate? Very clearly outlined X
Goal of SSMP: to provide a plan and schedule to properly manage, operate, and maintain all parts of the sanitary sewer system. This will help reduce and prevent SSOs, as well as mitigate any SSOs that do occur.
ELEMENT 2 - ORGANIZATION
YES
NO
A. Is the Staff telephone list current?
X
B. Is the SSO Chain of Communication telephone list current? X
C. Is "Organization of City SSO Staff Responsible for Sewer System," current? X
D. Are the position descriptions accurate portrayals of staff responsibilities? X
E. Is SSO Reporting Chain of Communication" accurate and up-to-date? X
(a) The name of the responsible or authorized representative as described in Section J of this Order (SSS WDR). Names and Phone numbers are not listed in SSMP Element 2
(b) The names and telephone numbers for management, administrative, and maintenance positions responsible for implementing specific measures in the SSMP program. The SSMP must identify lines of authority through an organization chart or similar document with a narrative explanation; and
(c) The chain of communication for reporting SSOs, from receipt of a complaint or other information, including the person responsible for reporting SSOs to the State and Regional Water Board and other agencies if applicable (such as County Health Officer, County Environmental Health Agency, Regional Water Board, and/or State Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES)).
ELEMENT 3 - LEGAL AUTHORITY
YES
NO
Does the SSMP contain references to the current City Ordinance(s) documenting the City's legal authority to:
A. Prevent illicit discharges?
X
B. Require proper design and construction of sewers and connections? X
C. Ensure access for maintenance, inspection or repairs for the portions of the laterals owned or maintained by the district? LA CODE 20.24.090
X
D. Limit discharges of fats, oils and grease? LA CODE 20.36.400 X
E. Enforce any violation of its sewer ordinance?
X
Legal Authority: Each Enrollee must demonstrate, through sanitary sewer system use ordinances, service agreements, or other legally binding procedures, that it possesses the necessary legal authority to:
(a) Prevent illicit discharges into its sanitary sewer system (examples may include infiltration and inflow (I/I), storm water, chemical dumping, unauthorized debris and cut roots, etc....);
(b) Require that sewers and connections be properly designed and constructed; (c) Ensure access for maintenance, inspection, or repairs for portions of the lateral owned or maintained by the Public Agency; (d) Limit the discharge of fats, oils, and grease and other debris that may cause blockages, and (e) Enforce any violation of its sewer ordinances.
ELEMENT 4 - OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE PROGRAM
YES
NO
Collection System Maps
A. Does the SSMP reference the current process and procedures for maintaining the City's sewer collection system maps? B. Are the City's sewer collection system maps complete, current and sufficiently detailed? X
X
Resources and Budget
C. Does the City allocate sufficient funds for the effective operation, maintenance and repair of the sewer collection system and is the current budget structure documented in the SSMP? X
Prioritized Preventative Maintenance
D. Does the SSMP describe current preventative maintenance activities? X
E. Are the City preventative maintenance activities sufficient and effective in minimizing SSOs and blockages? X
Scheduled Inspections and Condition Assessments
F. Is there an ongoing condition assessment program sufficient to develop a capital improvement plan addressing the proper management and protection of infrastructure assets? Are current components of this program documented in the SSMP?
X
Contingency Equipment and Replacement Inventory
G. Does the SSMP list the major equipment currently used in the operation and maintenance of the collection system and document the procedures of inventory management?
H. Are contingency equipment and replacement parts sufficient to respond to emergencies and properly conduct regular maintenance?
X
X
Training
I. Are the training records current?
J. Does the SSMP document current training expectations and programs within the City Public Works Department Maintenance Division?
X
X
Outreach to Plumbers and Building Contractors
K. Does the SSMP document contain current outreach efforts to plumbers and building contractors? X
(a) Maintain an up-to-date map of the sanitary sewer system, showing all gravity line segments and manholes, pumping facilities, pressure pipes and valves, and applicable storm water conveyance facilities; (b) Describe routine preventive operation and maintenance activities by staff and contractors; including a system for scheduling regular maintenance and cleaning of the sanitary sewer system with more frequent cleaning and maintenance targeted at known problem areas. The Preventative Maintenance (PM) program should have a system to document scheduled and conducted activities, such as work orders;
(c) Develop rehabilitation and replacement plan to identify and prioritize system deficiencies and implement short-term and long- term rehabilitation actions to address each deficiency. The program should include regular visual and TV inspections of manholes and sewer pipes, and a system for ranking the condition of sewer pipes and scheduling rehabilitation. Rehabilitation and replacement should focus on sewer pipes that are at risk of collapse or prone to more frequent blockages due to pipe defects. Finally, the rehabilitation and replacement plan should include a capital improvement plan that addresses proper management and protection of the infrastructure assets. The plan shall include a time schedule for implementing the short and long term plans plus a schedule for developing the funds needed for the capital improvement plan; (d) Provide training on a regular basis for staff in sanitary sewer system operations, maintenance, and require contractors to be appropriately trained; and
(e) Provide equipment and replacement part inventories, including identification of critical replacement parts.
ELEMENT 5 - DESIGN AND PERFORMANCE PROVSIONS
YES
NO
A. Does the SSMP contain current design and construction standards for the installation of new sanitary sewer systems and for the rehabilitation and repair of existing sanitary sewer systems? X
B. Does the SSMP document contain current procedures and standards for inspecting and testing the installation of new sewers, pumps and other appurtenances and the rehabilitation and repairs of existing sewer lines? X
(a) Design and construction standards and specifications for the installation of new sanitary sewer systems, pump stations and other appurtenances; and for the rehabilitation and repair of existing sanitary sewer systems; and (b) Procedures and standards for inspecting and testing the installation of new sewers, pumps, and other appurtenances and for rehabilitation and repair projects.
ELEMENT 6 - OVERFLOW AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN
YES
NO
A. Does the City's SSO Overflow and Emergency Response Plan establish procedures for the emergency response, notification and reporting of the SSOs?
X
B. Is wastewater staff appropriately trained on the procedures of the SSO Overflow and Emergency Response Plan? X
C. Is the SSO Overflow and Emergency Response Plan effective in handling SSOs in order to safeguard public health and the environment?
X
Overflow Emergency Response Plan - Each Enrollee shall develop and implement an overflow emergency response plan that identifies measures to protect public health and the environment. At a minimum, this plan must include the following:
(a) Proper notification procedures so that the primary responders and regulatory agencies are informed of all SSOs in a timely manner;
(b) A program to ensure appropriate response to all overflows; (c) Procedures to ensure prompt notification to appropriate regulatory agencies and other potentially affected entities (e.g. health agencies, regional water boards, water suppliers, etc....) of all SSOs that potentially affect public health or reach the waters of the State in accordance with the MRP. All SSOs shall be reported in accordance with this MRP, the California Water Code, other State Law, and other applicable Regional Water Board WDR or NPDES permit requirements. The SSMP should identify the officials who will receive immediate notification;
(d) Procedures to ensure that appropriate staff and contractor personnel are aware of and follow the Emergency Response Plan and are appropriately trained;
(e) Procedures to address emergency operations, such as traffic and crowd control and other necessary response activities; and (f) A program to ensure that all reasonable steps are taken to contain and prevent the discharge of untreated and partially treated wastewater to waters of the United States and to minimize or correct any adverse impact on the environment resulting from the SSOs, including such accelerated or additional monitoring as may be necessary to determine the nature and impact of the discharge.
ELEMENT 7 - FATS, OILS AND GREASE ("FOG") CONTROL PROGRAM YES
NO
A. Does the FOG Control Program include efforts to educate the public on the proper handling and disposal of FOG? X
B. Does the FOG Control Program identify sources of the collection system subject to FOG blockages, establish a cleaning schedule and address source control measures to minimize these blockages? X
C. Are requirements for grease removal devices, best management practices ("BMP"), record keeping and reporting established in the district's FOG Control Program?
X
D. Does the City have sufficient legal authority to implement and enforce the FOG Control Program? X
E. Is the current FOG Control Program effective in minimizing blockages of sewer lines resulting from discharges of FOG to the system?
X
Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG) Control Program: Each Enrollee shall evaluate its service area to determine whether a FOG control program is needed. If an Enrollee determines that a FOG program is not needed, the Enrollee must provide justification for why it is not needed. If FOG is found to be a problem, the Enrollee must prepare and implement a FOG source control program to reduce the amount of these substances discharged to the sanitary sewer system. This plan shall include the following as appropriate:
(a) An implementation plan and schedule for a public education outreach program that promotes proper disposal of FOG; (b) A plan and schedule for the disposal of FOG generated within the sanitary sewer system service area. This may include a list of acceptable disposal facilities and/or additional facilities needed to adequately dispose of FOG generated within a sanitary sewer system service area;
(c) The legal authority to prohibit discharges to the system and identify measures to prevent SSOs and blockages caused by FOG; (d) Requirements to install grease removal devices (such as traps or interceptors) design standards for the removal devices, maintenance requirements, BMP requirements, record keeping and reporting requirements; (e) Authority to inspect grease producing facilities, enforcement authorities, and whether the Enrollee has sufficient staff to inspect and enforce the FOG ordinance;
(f) An identification of sanitary sewer system sections subject to FOG blockages and establish a cleaning maintenance schedule for each section; and
(g) Development and implementation of source control measures, for all sources of FOG discharged to the sanitary sewer system, for each section identified in (f) above.
ELEMENT 8 - SYSTEM EVALUATION AND CAPACITY ASSURANCE PLAN YES
NO
A. Does the City's SSMP evaluate hydraulic deficiencies in the system and, if needed, establish sufficient design criteria and short/long term capacity enhancement and improvement projects? X
B. If needed, does the City's SSMP establish a schedule of approximate completion dates for both short and long-term improvements and is the schedule reviewed and updated to reflect current budgetary capabilities and activity accomplishment? Not listed in SSMP
X
System Evaluation and Capacity Assurance Plan: The Enrollee shall prepare and implement a capital improvement plan (CIP) that will provide hydraulic capacity of key sanitary sewer system elements for dry weather peak flow conditions, as well as the appropriate design storm or wet weather event. At a minimum, the plan must include:
(a) Evaluation: Actions needed to evaluate those portions of the sanitary sewer system that are experiencing or contributing to an SSO discharge caused by hydraulic deficiency. The evaluation must provide estimates of peak flows (including flows from SSOs that escape from the system) associated with conditions similar to those causing overflow events, estimates of the capacity of key system components, hydraulic deficiencies (including components of the system with limiting capacity) and the major sources that contribute to the peak flows associated with overflow events; (b) Design Criteria: Where design criteria do not exist or are deficient, undertake the evaluation identified in "a" above to establish appropriate design criteria; and
(c) Capacity Enhancement Measures: The steps needed to establish a short- and long-term capital improvement plan (CIP) to address identified hydraulic deficiencies including prioritization, alternatives analysis, and schedules. The CIP may include increases in pipe size, I/I reduction programs, increases and redundancy in pumping capacity, and storage facilities. The CIP shall include an implementation schedule and shall identify sources of funding. (d) Schedule: The Enrollee shall develop a schedule of completion dates for all portions of the capital improvement program developed in (a -c) above. This schedule shall be reviewed and updated consistent with the SSMP review and update requirements as described in Section D. 14.
ELEMENT G -MONITORING, MEASUREMENT AND PROGRAM
YES
NO
Modifications
A. Does the SSMP accurately portray the methods of tracking and reporting selected performance indicators? B. Is the City able to sufficiently evaluate the effectiveness of SSMP elements based on relevant information? X
X
Monitoring, Measurement, and Program Modifications: The Enrollee shall:
(a) Maintain relevant information that can be used to establish and prioritize appropriate SSMP activities; (b) Monitor the implementation and, where appropriate, measure the effectiveness of each element of the SSMP; (c) Assess the success of the preventative maintenance program; (d) Update program elements, as appropriate, based on monitoring or performance evaluations; and (e) Identify and illustrate SSO trends, including: frequency, location, and volume.
ELEMENT 10 - SSMP
YES
NO
A. Will the SSMP Audit be conducted every three years as required by SWRCB 2022-0103-DWQ? X
SSMP Program Audits - As part of the SSMP, the Enrollee shall conduct periodic internal audits, appropriate to the size of the system and the number of SSOs. At a minimum, these audits must occur every three years and a report must be prepared and kept on file.
This audit shall focus on evaluating the effectiveness of the SSMP and the Enrollee's compliance with the SSMP requirements identified in this subsection (D.13.), including identification of any deficiencies in the SSMP and steps to correct them.
ELEMENT 11- COMMUNICATION PROGRAM
YES
NO
A. Does the City effectively communicate with the public about the development and implementation of it's SSMP and continue the address any feedback? Needs to be outlined in SSMP X
Communication Program. The Enrollee shall communicate on a regular basis with the public on the development, implementation, and performance of its SSMP. The communication system shall provide the public the opportunity to provide input to the Enrollee as the program is developed and implemented. The Enrollee shall also create a plan of communication with systems that are tributary and/or satellite to the Enrollee's sanitary sewer system.
CITY OF BELL GARDENS
OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TO:
FROM:
BY:
SUBJECT:
MEETING DATE:
Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
Michael O'Kelly, City Manager
Daisy Gomez, City Clerk
Local Commissions Appointment List
July 28, 2025
RECOMMENDATION:
It is staffs recommendation that the City Council review the Commissions Appointments List and by motion, remove commissioners and/or make appointments to the posted vacancies.
BACKGROUND / DISCUSSION:
The Local Appointments List includes all Bell Gardens Commissions and Commissioners. The City Council adopted Ordinance No. 825 on July 13, 2009 establishing minimum requirements for service on commissions. All Commissioners must reside within the City of Bell Gardens and may only serve on one Commission at a time. Once appointed, each Commissioner must adhere to the requirements of the City's Conflict of Interest Code and state -mandated AB 1234 ethics training and AB 1661 harassment training.
Ordinance No. 825 allows each Council Member to remove or appoint one candidate per Commission, subject to the approval of the Council majority. Appointed Commission Members serve terms that coincide with the term of the Council Member who made the appointment.
CONCLUSION:
After an appointment is made, Commission members will receive their Oath of Office before beginning service with their respective Commission at the next regularly scheduled Commission meeting. The City Clerk's Office will arrange for the proper filing of Conflict of Interest Code forms and schedule trainings for AB 1234 and AB 1661.
FISCAL IMPACT:
No fiscal impact.
ELECTRONICALLY APPROVED BY:
Michael B. O'Kelly, City Manager
Stephanie Vasquez, City Attorney
Manual Carrillo, Director of Finance and Administrative Services
CITY OF BELL GARDENS
NOTICE OF COMMISSION VACANCIES
AND ACTIVE COMMISSIONERS
The City Council is seeking applications for the following vacancies:
NAME
APPOINTED BY
VACANCY
POSTED
APPOINTMENT
DATE
VACANT
Barcena
2/3/2025
Linda Judith Lopez
Crystal Jimenez
Juan Manuel Rojas
Miguel Maravilla
Chavez
De La Rosa
Guillen
Sanchez
4/28/2025
1/13/2025
1127/2025
1/13/2025
Ernesto Ramirez
Barcena
4/8/2024
Carlos Jose Barrera
Chavez
1/13/2024
Kenneth Preciado
De La Rosa
1/13/2025
Yoraelvs Monrov
Oscar Boado
Guillen
Sanchez
2/11/2025
9/11/2023
VACANT
Barcena
1/6/2025
Katelvnn Cabrera
Ainslee Preciado
Chavez
De La Rosa
4/28/2025
2/24/2025
VACANT
Guillen
3/11/2025
Carmen Vargas
Sanchez
7/22/2024
Ana Maria Sanchez Flores
Barcena
1/9/2023
Mayra Teresa Yanez
Karina Garcia
Chavez
De La Rosa
4/28/2025
5/12/2025
VACANT
Guillen
Stephanie Perez
Sanchez
1123/2023
David Heredia
Barcena
1/9/2023
Edgar Juvenal Lopez Bustillos
Gustavo Mendez
Chavez
De La Rosa
4/28/2025
4/14/2025
Samuel Perez
Guillen
2/24/2025
Hugo Alvarado
Sanchez
1/9/2023
Applicants must be residents of the City. No person previously convicted of a felony in this state or elsewhere shall be permitted to serve on any City Commission. Before assuming the duties of a commissioner, each person appointed shall take and file with the City Clerk the same constitutional oath of office required of members of the city council. Any member of a commission shall be deemed to have resigned from the commission, and his or her office as a member of the commission shall automatically vacated, in the event, the member ceases to be a resident of the City or is convicted of a felony. (Bell Gardens Municipal Code Sections 2.68.030, 2.28.030, 2.22.030, 2.35.030) Applications may be obtained from the City Clerk's Office: 7100 Garfield Ave, Bell Gardens, CA 90201. Applications will be accepted in the City Clerk's Office on a continuous basis until an appointment is made. Please call the City Clerk's Office at (562) 806-7705 or email [email protected] for more information.
Daisy Gomez, City Clerk
Updated: 5/13/2025
CITY OF BELL GARDENS
OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TO:
FROM:
BY:
SUBJECT:
MEETING DATE:
Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
Michael O'Kelly, City Manager
Paul Camacho, Police Chief
Discussion Regarding Use of Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) Technology by the Bell Gardens Police Department and Response to Public Concerns About Data Sharing
July 28, 2025
RECOMMENDATION:
It is staffs recommendation that the City Council receive and file this report.
BACKGROUND / DISCUSSION:
On Monday, February 27, 2023, the City Council of Bell Gardens approved a three-year lease agreement (including two one-year optional extensions) with Flock Safety, Inc. for the installation of 23 ALPR cameras for the Bell Gardens Police Department under Resolution No. 2023-12. The original agreement period ends early 2026 and includes an annual cost of $57,500. The agreement can be terminated at any time for either party's convenience.
The Bell Gardens Police Department (BGPD) utilizes Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) technology to enhance public safety, assist in criminal investigations, and recover stolen vehicles. ALPR cameras are strategically located throughout the City to capture license plate data from vehicles on public roads.
This technology has been instrumental in locating suspects involved in violent crimes, identifying vehicles associated with felony investigations, and recovering stolen property.
The use of ALPRs is consistent with practices across Los Angeles County and adheres to applicable State laws.
ADDRESSING PUBLIC CONCERNS: PRIVACY AND DATA SHARING
Community members have raised valid concerns regarding:
• The collection and storage of vehicle movement data;
• Potential misuse of the data; and
• The risk of sharing information with federal immigration authorities.
COMPLIANCE WITH STATE LAW: CALIFORNIA VALUES ACT (SB 54) Under SB 54, also known as the "Sanctuary State" law, local law enforcement agencies are prohibited from using personnel or resources to investigate, detain, or provide information to federal immigration authorities (such as ICE), except in narrowly defined criminal circumstances as specified by State law. The Police Department does not share ALPR data with ICE or federal immigration enforcement unless required by law in connection with serious criminal offenses.
The Police Department has confirmed with our representative from Flock that the company does not share information with law enforcement agencies from other states or with federal agencies. Furthermore, no federal agencies have access to statewide or national lookup systems.
TRANSPARENCY AND COMMUNITY TRUST:
The Bell Gardens Police Department is committed to maintaining public trust by:
• Providing transparency regarding how technology is used; • Ensuring responsible management of data; and
• Hosting community meetings to listen to residents' concerns.
CONCLUSION:
The City of Bell Gardens Police Department utilizes ALPR technology a tool for protecting our community, recovering stolen property, and solving serious crimes. The system is utilized with caution, under strict oversight, and in compliance with state law. The Police Department is dedicated to transparency, community engagement, and ensuring that this technology is not used for immigration enforcement.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no fiscal impact associated with receiving this report.
APPROVED ELECTRONICALLY BY:
Michael B. O'Kelly, City Manager
Stephanie Vasquez, City Attorney
Manuel Carrillo, Director of Finance and Administrative Services
CITY OF BELL GARDENS
OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TO:
FROM:
BY:
Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
Michael B. O'Kelly, City Manager
Manuel Carrillo, Director of Finance and Administrative Services Jules Tak, Accounting Manager
SUBJECT: Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Year End Cardroom Revenue Update MEETING DATE: July 28, 2025
RECOMMENDATION:
It is staff's recommendation that the City Council discuss, receive and file the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Cardroom Revenue update report.
BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION:
On June 9, 2025, the City adopted the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 General Fund Budget. As part of this presentation, a year end Fiscal Year 2024-2025 General Fund Projection was provided for both Revenue and Expenditures as of June 9, 2025. As part of further analysis, we are providing a projected update as of July 28, 2025.
Fiscal Year
2024-2025
End -of Year Projection as of
June 9, 2025
Updated End -of -Year
Projection as of July 28, 2025
Revenue
$43,196,235
$42,722,109
Expenditures
$46,650,545
$46,650,545
Surplus/(Deficit)
($3,454,310)
($3,928,436)
As part of the City's annual year end close process, revenue categories are closely monitored, actual year-end figures are confirmed to facilitate this close out process. At the time of this report, Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Cardroom Revenue actual figures have been identified and confirmed. The table below provides a side -by -side comparison of Fiscal Year 2023-2024 and Fiscal Year 2024-2025. Showing the reduced amount of Cardroom Revenue received in Fiscal Year 2024-2025 from the prior year.
Fiscal Year 2023-2024 & Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Cardroom Revenue Actua Month
Fiscal Year 2023-2024
Fiscal Year 2024-2025
July
$1,534,598.23
$1,608,506.56
August
$1,626,378.52
$1,314,920.93
September
$1,487,531.50
$858,181.07
October
$1,317,086.26
$1,105,831.58
November
$1,257,511.06
$1,172,286.55
December
$1,558,385.44
$1,219,753.00
January
$1,623,526.02
$1,275,050.98
February
$1,512,032.53
$1,263,078.86
March
$1,733,047.01
$1,482,227.41
April
$1,488,329.63
$1,344,003.56
May
$1,555,153.08
$1,437,057.73
June
$1,481,012.15
$1,288,834.52
Total
$18,174,682.43
$15,369,732.75
SB 549 Tribal Lawsuit
In September 2024, Senate BiII 549 ("SB 549") was signed into law, allowing tribes to sue private cardrooms to stop the play of certain table games. Tribes filed suit on January 2, 2025. The courts will decide if private cardrooms can continue to allow certain table games.
Private card rooms believe that these particular table games are allowable, and they will take legal action in defense of the lawsuit. The City's cardroom JPA is currently working with cardrooms, consultants and industry groups to support the defense of the lawsuit.
Proposed Regulatory Changes by Attorney General
There are a series of proposed regulatory changes by the California Attorney General's office, which include
• Changes to Third Party Proposition Player Services ("TPPPS"). • TPPPS must rotate every 40 Minutes and other changes. • Changes to Blackjack Style games.
• If implemented, significant slowdown in the pace of the games. • A public hearing was held on May 28th and 29th of this year. • Our Cardroom JPA is working with cardrooms, consultants and industry groups to oppose the proposed regulations.
Next Steps for City of Bell Gardens
Staff recommend that the City take the following steps to address and monitor City revenue:
1. Continue to closely monitor card room revenue.
2. Continue to work through the Cardroom JPA.
3. Develop contingencies to address any long-term reductions in cardroom revenues.
4. Continue to develop additional revenue opportunities
• Consider .25% Sales Tax Ballot Measure (Estimated $1.3 Million per year). • Retail Cannabis (5 Development Agreements processed; 2 pending) • Potential sale of City Water System (RFP Scheduled, August 2025) • General Fee Study (Aquatic Center Fee Study August/September 2025) CONCLUSION:
It is staff's recommendation that the City Council discuss, receive and file the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Year End Cardroom revenue update report. Staff recommends that the City consider the following to address and monitor City Revenue:
1. Continue to closely monitor card room revenue.
2. Continue to work through the Cardroom JPA.
3. Develop contingencies to address any long-term reductions in card room revenues.
4. Continue to develop additional revenue opportunities • Consider .25% Sales Tax Ballot Measure (Estimated $1.3 Million per year).
• Retain Cannabis (5 Development Agreements processed; 2 pending). • Potential sale of City Water System (RFP Scheduled August 2025). • General Fee Study (Aquatic Center Fee Study August/September 2025).
FISCAL IMPACT: None.
APPROVED ELECTRONICALLY BY:
Michael B. O'Kelly, City Manager
Stephanie Vasquez, City Attorney
Manuel Carrillo, Director of Finance and Administrative Services
City of Bell Gardens
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Card Room Revenue Update
Fiscal Year 2024 — 2025
Fiscal Year 2024-2025 General Fund
Projection
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Revenues
Expenditures
$43,196,235
$46,650,545
$42,722,109
$46,650,545
Surplus/(Deficit)
($3,454,310) ($3,928,436)
$0
($500,000)
($1,000,000)
($1,500,000)
($2,000,000)
($2,500,000)
($3,000,000)
($3,500,000)
($4,000,000)
Change in Fund Balance
Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Pr
($3,454,310)
25 Pr
($3,928,436)
/25
2 Fiscal Year 2023-2024 & Fiscal Year 2024-2025
Card Room Revenue Actuals
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$1,534,598.23
$1,626,378.52
$1,487,531.50
$1,317,086.26
$1,257,511.06
$1,558,385.44
$1,623,526.02
$1,512,032.53
$1,733,047.01
$1,488,329.63
$1,555,153.08
$1,481,012.15
$18,174,682.43
$1,608,506.56
$1,314,920.93
$858,181.07
$1,105,831.58
$1,172,286.55
$1,219,753.00
$1,275,050.98
$1,263,078.86
$1,482,227.41
$1,344,003.56
$1,437,057.73
$1,288,834.52
$15,369,732.75
SB549 Tribal Lawsuit
• Senate Bill 549 was signed into law in
September 2024
• Allows tribes to sue private cardrooms to stop
certain table games.
• Tribes filed suit on January 2, 2025.
• Court will decide if private cardrooms can
continue to allow certain table games.
• Private cardrooms believe that these particular
table games are allowable, and they will take
legal action in defense of the lawsuit.
Our Cardroom JPA is working with cardrooms,
consultants and industry groups to support the
Proposed Regulatory Changes By California
Attorney General
Page y754^of 756
• Changes Third Party Proposition Player
Services (TPPPS).
• TPPPS must rotate every 40 Minutes and
other changes.
• Changes to Blackjack -style games.
• If implemented, significant slow down in the
pace of games.
• Public hearings held on May 28th and 29th
of this year.
• Our Cardroom JPA is working with
cardrooms, consultants and industry
groups to oppose the proposed
regulations.
Next Steps
1.) Continue to monitor cardroom revenue.
2.) Continue to work through the Cardroom JPA.
3.) Develop contingencies to address any long-term
reduction in cardroom revenues.
4.) Continue to develop additional revenue
opportunities
• Consider .25% Sales Tax Ballot Measure
(Estimated $1.3 Million per year)
Retail Cannabis (5 Development Agreements
processed; 2 Pending)
Potential Sale of City Water System (RFP August
2025)
General Fee Study (Aquatic
August/September 2025
City of Bell Gardens
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Q&A