CITY OF BELL GARDENS
AGENDA
City Council / Successor Agency to the Community Development Commission Joint Meeting
Monday, February 23, 2026, 6:00 PM
Agenda en Español
LOCATION: CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS, 7100 GARFIELD AVENUE, BELL GARDENS, CA 90201 The meeting will be held at Bell Gardens City Hall in the Council Chambers. The public may attend the meeting in person or virtually as instructed below. You may view the meeting live on the City's website at https://www.bellgardens.org/i-want-to/watch-city-council-meetings .
ACCESSIBILITY: If requested, the agenda and backup materials will be made available in appropriate alternative formats to persons with a disability, as required by Section 202 of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. Sec. 12132), and the federal rules and regulations adopted in implementation thereof.
Any person who requires a disability-related modification or accommodation, in order to observe and/or offer public participation may request such reasonable modification, accommodation, aid, or service by contacting the City Clerk's office by telephone at 562-806-7704 or via email to [email protected] no later than 72-hours before the scheduled meeting.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION: The members of the public may address the City Council on any item listed on the agenda. Public participation are limited to three (3) minutes. Public participation for non-agenda items will be limited to a total of 30 minutes. Public participation can be made by any of the following ways:
IN-PERSON: Members of the public can provide in-person participation at the podium in the Council Chamber. The Council Chambers will have seating available for members of the public to attend the meeting in person, subject to capacity limits. Public participation are limited to (3) minutes per speaker, unless different time is announced by the presiding chair. Speakers who wish to address the City Council should do so by submitting a "Public Comment Card" by 5:00 pm.
BY TELEPHONE: Phone Number: (669)900-9128 Webinar ID: 813 3236 4343# Passcode: 2021# To address the City Council press *9 to raise your hand then *6 to unmute yourself when instructed.
VIRTUALLY LIVE: Members of the public may participate via Zoom by https://zoom.us/join and entering the Zoom Meeting ID: 813 3236 4343 Passcode: 2021
Public participation may also be made via the Zoom app by using the "Raise Hand" feature when it is your turn to speak the host will unmute you. Participation will not be accepted in the QandA Chat function of the zoom app.
WRITTEN COMMENTS: Public participation may be emailed to [email protected] or mailed to: City Clerk's Office, 7100 Garfield Ave., Bell Gardens, CA 90201. To ensure distribution to the members of the City Council prior to consideration of the agenda, please submit comments no later than one (1) hour prior to the meeting. Those comments, as well as any comments received after, will be distributed to the members of the City Council and will be part of the official public record of this meeting.
For more information, you may contact the City Clerk's office during regular business hours, 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday at (562) 806-7704.
Page
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. INVOCATION
3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
4. ROLL CALL OF CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS / SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION MEMBERS
Marco Barcena, Councilmember / Agency Member
Jorgel Chavez, Councilmember / Agency Member
Dr. Francis De Leon Sanchez, Councilwoman / Agency Member Isabel Guillen, Mayor Pro Tem / Vice Chair
Miguel De La Rosa, Mayor / Chair
5. PRESENTATION
5.1 Certificate of Recognition – Lulu Gonzalez & Olga Garcia
5.2 Women's History Month Proclamation
6. PUBLIC HEARING
6.1 Consideration and Approval of a Resolution Declaring a Fiscal Emergency and Calling a Special Municipal Election to
Present Voters with a Ballot Measure to Increase the City’s Transactions and Use Tax along with other Election-Related 8 - 42
Action; and First Reading Approval of a Related Ordinance Codifying the Proposed Increase, Subject to Voter Approval RECOMMENDATION: It is staff’s recommendation that the City Council:
1. Adopt Resolution No. 2026-20: (i) Declaring a fiscal emergency within the meaning of Article XIIIC, §2 of the California Constitution; (ii) Calling and giving notice of a June 2, 2026 Special Election, for the submission of a Ballot Measure to Bell Gardens voters increasing the City’s 1% Transactions and Use Tax rate to 1.25%; (iii) Requesting consolidation of said Special Election with the County-Administered Election of the same date; (iv) Requesting that the Los Angeles County Registrar- Recorder/County Clerk provide Specific Election
Administration Services; and (v) Setting priorities for filing written arguments and rebuttals regarding the Ballot Measure and directing preparation of an impartial analysis; and
2. Subject to adoption by the electorate, give first reading to Ordinance No. 964 to increase the City of Bell Gardens’ existing transactions and use tax rate from 3/4% to 1% and making such other administrative amendments and updates
requested by the California Department of Tax and Fee
Administration; and
3. Discuss and take action regarding the preparation of ballot arguments; and
4. Take such additional, related, action that may be desirable.
ATTACHMENTS:
Exhibit 1 - Resolution No. 2026-20
Exhibit 2 - Ordinance No. 964
7. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS UNDER THE SUBJECT
MATTER JURISDICTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL / SUCCESSOR AGENCY During this time, the members of the public may address the City Council / Successor Agency regarding any items within the subject matter jurisdiction of the City Council / Successor Agency. Public participation are limited to 3 minutes per person subject to an overall 30-minute period for non-agenda items. Government Code Section 54590 prohibits the City Council / Successor Agency from taking action or engaging in discussion on a specific item unless it appears on the agenda.
8. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION ON AGENDA ITEMS ONLY
During this time, the members of the public may address the City Council / Agency Members regarding any items listed on the agenda. Public participation are limited to 3 minutes per person.
9. COMMITTEE UPDATES
10. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
11. CONSENT CALENDAR
All matters listed under the Consent Calendar are considered to be routine and can be acted on by one roll call vote. There will be no separate discussion of these items unless members of the City Council / Successor Agency request specific items to be removed from the Consent Calendar for separate action. Items called for separate discussion will be heard as the next order of business.
11.1 General Motion to Waive Full Reading and Approve
Ordinances by Title Only Pursuant to California Government Code Section 36934 with Support from the Majority of the Legislative Body.
RECOMMENDATION: To approve ordinances by title only.
CONCLUSION: Allowing ordinances to be read by title only, according to California State Law, will expedite the conduct of business at Council Meetings.
FISCAL IMPACT: No fiscal impact.
43 11.2 Approval Minutes of Closed Session and City
Council/Successor Agency - Joint Meeting
RECOMMENDATION: It is staff's recommendation that the City Council approve the minutes of the February 9, 2026, Closed Session and City Council/Successor Agency Joint Meetings.
ATTACHMENTS:
Exhibit 1 - City Council Closed Session - Feb 09 2026 - Minutes - Html
Exhibit 2 - City Council / Successor Agency to the Community Development Commission Joint Meeting - Feb 09 2026 - Minutes - Html
44 - 58
11.3 Warrant Register and Wire Transfer
RECOMMENDATION: It is staff's recommendation that the City Council receive and file the warrant registers, wire transfers, and net payrolls dated 01/20/26, 01/22/2026, 01/27/2026 and 02/03/2026.
ATTACHMENTS:
Exhibit 1 - Warrant Registers
59 - 78
11.4 Treasurer Report - January 2026
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council receive, approve, and file the January 2026 Treasurer's Report. 79 - 83
ATTACHMENTS:
Exhibit 1 - January 2026 Treasurer Report
11.5 Consideration of a Resolution Approving a First Amendment to Professional Services Agreement by and between City of Bell Gardens and BPR Consulting Group, LLC to Provide As- Needed Building Inspection and Plan Check Services
RECOMMENDATION: It is staff’s recommendation that the City Council adopt the attached Resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute a First Amendment to a Professional Services Agreement by and between the City of Bell Gardens and BPR Consulting Group, LLC., for as-needed building inspection and plan check services.
ATTACHMENTS:
Exhibit 1 - Resolution No. 2026-21
Exhibit 2 - First Amendment to Professional Services Agreement with Exhibits
84 - 196
11.6 Consideration of a Resolution Approving a Contract Services Agreement with Black & White Emergency Vehicles, LLC for the Purchase and Outfitting of Emergency Equipment for a Previously Purchased Vehicle
197 - 198
RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends that the City Council
adopt the attached Resolution approving a Contract Services Agreement with Black & White Emergency Vehicles, LLC for the purchase and installation of emergency equipment in an amount not to exceed $28,002.82.
ATTACHMENTS:
Exhibit 1 - Resolution No. 2026-22
Exhibit 2 - Contract Services Agreement with Quote
199 - 222
11.7 Consideration of a Resolution Approvingan Academy Recruit Training Agreement with the County of Los Angeles
RECOMMENDATION: It is staff’s recommendation that the City Council approve the attached Resolution reaffirming an Academy Recruit Training Agreement with the County of Los Angeles.
ATTACHMENTS:
Exhibit 1 - Resolution No. 2026-23
Exhibit 2 - MOU - County of Los Angeles
223 - 240
11.8 Consideration of a Resolution Approving a Water Right License and Agreement with Liberty Utilities (Park Water) Corp. Granting a License to Extract 2,000 Acre-Feet of City’s 241 - 249
Groundwater Pumping Allocation Rights for FY 2025-2026
RECOMMENDATION: It is staff’s recommendation that the City Council adopt the attached Resolution approving a Water Right License and Agreement with Liberty Utilities (Park Water) Corp. (“Liberty”) granting a license to extract 2,000 acre-feet of the City’s unused groundwater pumping allocation rights for fiscal year 2025- 2026, for a total amount of $100,000.
ATTACHMENTS:
Exhibit 1 - Resolution No. 2026-24
Exhibit 2- RFP, Proposal and Agreement
11.9 Approval of Plans and Specifications and Authorization to Solicit Bids for the Slurry Seal Improvement Zones 1 and 2 (CIP No. 3941)
RECOMMENDATION: It is staff’s recommendation that the City Council:
1. Approve the plans and specifications for the Slurry Seal Improvement Zones 1 and 2 (CIP No. 3941);
2. Authorize staff to solicit competitive bids and publish the Notice Inviting Sealed Bids (NISB); and
3. Find that the project is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Guidelines Section 15301(c).
ATTACHMENTS:
Exhibit 1 – Notice Inviting Sealed Bids for Slurry Seal Improvement Zones 1 and 2
250 - 255
11.10 Rejection of Bids Received for the Ford Park Playground and Restroom Improvements (CIP No. 3926) and Approval of Plans and Specification
RECOMMENDATION: It is staff’s recommendation that the City Council:
1. Approve the rejection of all bids received on January 27, 2026;
2. Approve the plans and specifications for the Ford Park Playground and Restroom Improvements Project (CIP No.
3926);
3. Authorize staff to re-advertise and publish the Notice Inviting Sealed Bids (NISB); and
4. Find that the project is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Guidelines Section 15301 (c).
ATTACHMENTS:
Exhibit 1 - Notice Inviting Sealed Bids
256 - 261
12. DISCUSSION
12.1 Local Commission
RECOMMENDATION: It is staff's recommendation that the City Council review the Commissions Appointments List and by motion, remove commissioners and/or make appointments to the posted vacancies.
ATTACHMENTS: Exhibit - Notice of Vacancies
262 - 263
12.2 Bell Gardens Art and Yard Sale Program Update
RECOMMENDATION: It is staff's recommendation that the City Council receive and file the Bell Gardens Art and Yard Sale Program Update report.
ATTACHMENTS: None
264 - 265
12.3 Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Mid-Year Budget Review
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council:
1. Receive, discuss, and file the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 mid-year budget report; and
2. Approve the following additional appropriations for Fiscal Rear 2025-2026: General Fund (110) $50,000, Prop A (280) & Prop C (281) $58,000, General Fund CIP (115), Measure W (287), TDA Article 3 (340) $413,520; Air Quality Improvement (282) $50,000 and Gas Tax (210) $30,000.
ATTACHMENTS:
Exhibit 1 – Presentation
266 - 281
13. CITY COUNCIL / SUCCESSOR AGENCY MEMBER COMMENTS
14. ADJOURNMENT
Daisy Gomez, City Clerk
Agenda Posted on February 19, 2026
CITY OF BELL GARDENS
OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TO:Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
FROM:Michael B. O’Kelly, City Manager
BY:Manuel Carrillo, Director of Finance and Administrative Services SUBJECT:Consideration and Approval of a Resolution Declaring a Fiscal Emergency and Calling a Special Municipal Election to Present Voters with a Ballot Measure to Increase the City’s Transactions and Use Tax along with other Election-Related Action; and First Reading Approval of a Related Ordinance Codifying the Proposed Increase, Subject to Voter Approval
MEETING DATE:February 23, 2026
RECOMMENDATION
It is staff’s recommendation that the City Council:
1. Adopt Resolution No. 2026-20: (i) Declaring a fiscal emergency within the meaning of Article XIIIC, §2 of the California Constitution; (ii) Calling and giving notice of a June 2, 2026 Special Election, for the submission of a Ballot Measure to Bell Gardens voters increasing the City’s 1% Transactions and Use Tax rate to
1.25%; (iii) Requesting consolidation of said Special Election with the County- Administered Election of the same date; (iv) Requesting that the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk provide Specific Election Administration Services; and (v) Setting priorities for filing written arguments and rebuttals regarding the Ballot Measure and directing preparation of an impartial analysis; and
2. Subject to adoption by the electorate, give first reading to Ordinance No. 964 to increase the City of Bell Gardens’ existing transactions and use tax rate from 3/4% to 1% and making such other administrative amendments and updates requested by the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration; and
3. Discuss and take action regarding the preparation of ballot arguments; and
4. Take such additional, related, action that may be desirable.
BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION
During the budget process, the City Council has discussed the growing financial pressures facing the City of Bell Gardens (“City”) due to rising costs associated with providing essential services. These cost increases, combined with limited projected revenue growth and ongoing service demands, create a need for additional locally
controlled funding to maintain the City’s high standard of public safety, community services, and parks and recreation programs, as well as address a growing need to fix and enhance aging infrastructure.
Despite the City’s strong record of fiscal stewardship, including responsible budgeting, service prioritization, and efficiency improvements, continued increases in the cost of emergency response, public safety staffing, equipment upgrades, and community programs have made it increasingly difficult to sustain core services at current levels, and to improve infrastructure such as the police department, public facilities, and parks, without additional revenue. For these reasons, circumstances justifying the declaration of a fiscal emergency exist. Accordingly, to protect the City’s long-term financial stability and preserve essential services, police response, recruitment and retention of police officers, prevention of gang and drug activity, addressing homelessness, keeping public areas and parks clean and safe, and maintaining afterschool and senior programs, identifying and securing new revenue sources is critical.
The City has financial challenges similarly faced by other Cities. Additionally, the City has immediate financial challenges that need to be addressed. At the current levels, the City has a projected structural deficit. For FY 2025-2026 the City adopted a balanced budget with no surplus or deficit. Although the City was able to adopt a balanced General Fund Budget, it was only achieved through the reliance on expected employee vacancies, and projected cannabis year end transfers to the General Fund.
The only option to eliminate the General Fund Structural deficit is to either increase revenues or decrease expenditure. A reduction in expenditures will result in a reduction of City services. The General Fund is the main operating fund of the City. It pays for public safety, public works, recreation services, community development and City administration.
City service levels have been maintained at the expense of the maintenance and replacement of City infrastructure, facilities, and equipment. A large majority of City facilities and equipment are aged and in need of continued maintenance. The City is also overly reliant on one revenue source. The City receives approximately 38% of its General Fund revenue from the Bicycle Casino or about $19,020,000 (FY 2025-2026 budgeted amount). Casino Revenues can be volatile, and subject to economic and societal rules and ordinances. During the COVID pandemic, the Bicycle Casino experienced significant operational closures which resulted in approximately $10 Million in revenue loss as a result of the mandated closures. Volatility in this field creates significant challenges to provide a consistent service level to residents in the City.
As part of the City’s continued fiscal monitoring, the Bicycle Casino’s revenue has been closely monitored throughout the first six (6) months of FY 2025-2026. A detailed analysis of actuals received in the first six (6) months has allowed Finance staff to identify a daily revenue average, thus allowing for a projection moving forward for the remaining period of January to June 2026. As a result, the remaining year end projection for FY 2025-2026 is approximately $17,013,047, which would result in a Bicycle Casino revenue deficit of approximately $2,000,000 for FY 2025-2026.
Month FY 2025-2026 FY 2025-2026 FY 2025-2026 Notes
Budget
July $1,585,000 $1,498,971.78 Actual Received
August $1,585,000 $1,532,761.45 Actual Received
September $1,585,000 $1,313,141.97 Actual Received
October $1,585,000 $1,465,885.27 Actual Received
November $1,585,000 $1,446,316.76 Actual Received
December $1,585,000 $1,319,362.82 Actual Received
January $1,585,000 $1,406,101.12*
February $1,585,000 $1,406,101.12*
March $1,585,000 $1,406,101.12*
April $1,585,000 $1,406,101.12*
May $1,585,000 $1,406,101.12*
June $1,585,000 $1,406,101.12*
Total $19,020,000 $17,013,046.77 *Projection based on 6- month Daily Average
For FY 2025-2026, the City projected a year end transfer into the General Fund, pertaining to cannabis revenue operations. As part of the City’s budgeted revenue for FY 2025-2026, a projected transfer of $2,600,000 was adopted as part of the City’s projected General Fund Revenue. This transfer consists of annual payments and community benefit payments provided by cannabis providers within the City, with active development agreements (DA’s), approved by the City Council. Based on City Council approval and direction, 80% of these available funds are to be deposited into the General Fund at year end. There are currently six (6) cannabis providers with active development agreements, of which one (1) is currently fully operational. The City has received $700,000 in annual payments and community benefits.
One option is to call a special election for June 2, 2026, to present Bell Gardens voters with a ballot measure (“Measure”) to increase the City’s existing transactions and use tax rate from 3/4%1 to 1% along with other administrative updates requested by the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration, the staff office responsible for collecting the tax on the City’s behalf. The tax will remain a general tax within the meaning of Proposition 218 whose revenues can be used for any governmental purpose, including, but not limited to maintaining 911 emergency response times; recruiting and retaining well-trained police officers; combating gang activity and drug-related crime; addressing homelessness and supporting food, health, and job training services; keeping parks and public spaces clean and safe; maintaining afterschool programs for youth and services for seniors; upgrading life-saving equipment for the police department; and funding infrastructure upgrades, including the city hall, police department, public facilities, and parks.
The City’s existing 1% transactions use tax generates approximately $3.7 million in general fund revenues each year. An increase of the transactions and use tax rate to
1.25% will generate an additional $1.2 million annually. Despite the rate increase, the City’s transactions and use tax will continue to operate like the general sales tax.
ANALYSIS AND DISCUSSION
1 The City’s existing transactions and use tax is codified under Chapter 3.22 of the Bell Gardens Municipal Code.
California Revenue and Taxation Code §7285.9 gives the City the authority to enact a local transactions and use tax (sales tax) for general purposes with the approval of Bell Gardens voters. A transactions and use tax is a form of add-on rate to the Statewide sales tax rate of 7.25%. The add-ons are comprised of County-wide transactions and use tax add-ons and the City’s own 3/4% transactions and use tax add-on. At present the cumulative sales tax for Bell Gardens, inclusive of all County and City add-ons is 10.5%.
The proposed quarter-cent increase will increase the overall rate to 10.75%.
Generally, Revenue and Taxation Code §7251.1 caps the cumulative amount of add-ons at 2% total, except in cases where special legislation exempts a specific add-on from the 2% cap. The approval of County Measure A by Los Angeles County voters in 2024, included the repeal of prior County Measure H which has ceded a quarter percent (1/4%) that would otherwise apply toward the 2% overall cap. It is this 1/4% that the City will secure for itself if Bell Gardens voters vote to approve the proposed measure to increase the existing 3/4% rate to 1%.
Except for those items that are exempted from the tax (e.g., most non-prepared food items and prescription medications are exempted from the tax), the tax applies to most over-the-counter sales of tangible goods and to restaurant sales. For purchases of big- ticket items (e.g., appliances and furniture), the tax applies only if the item is delivered to a Bell Gardens address from a point of sale located within or outside of the City. For automobile sales, the tax applies only if the vehicle purchased was registered to a Bell Gardens address, regardless of whether the vehicle was purchased from a dealership located in or outside of the City.
The following ballot question has been proposed as the ballot question to present to Bell Gardens voters:
SUMMARY/NEXT STEPS
When Can the Tax Measure Be Put to the Voters?
The City’s existing transactions and use tax was established as a general tax within the meaning of Article XIIIC of the California Constitution (“Article XIIIC”), whose revenues may be used for any governmental purpose. Under Article XIIIC, any increase to an existing general tax must be approved by the voters2 at a regular municipal election where City Council offices are also up for election. That said, such measures may be put to the 2 Government Code §53723.
YES
Keep Bell Gardens Sales Tax Revenues Local Measure
To protect and stabilize funding for Bell Gardens services like police/emergency response; maintenance/repair of streets, sidewalks and City facilities; park maintenance and
enhancements; youth/senior programs; Community Family
Service Center; and for any other general governmental
purpose, shall the City’s current 3/4% transactions (sales) and use tax rate be increased by a quarter percent to 1% to raise an additional $1.2 million annually?
NO
voters at a special election in the case of a fiscal emergency declared by unanimous vote of the legislative body (i.e., of the City Council).3
What is Required to Place a General Tax Measure on the Special Election Ballot and for the Approval of the Measure by the Voters?
The procedural hurdles for placing a general tax measure on a special election ballot are as follows:
1. Adoption of a Resolution by unanimous vote of Councilmembers present making a finding of fiscal emergency. This resolution can be merged with the resolution calling the special election to place the Measure on the ballot.
2. By no less than a 2/3 vote of the full membership of the City Council (i.e., by at least 4 “yes” votes) as required by Government Code §53724(b) and Revenue & Taxation Code §7285.9, adoption of a resolution that (i) calls for a special election to submit the Measure to voters; (ii) requests the Board of Supervisors of the County of Los Angeles to direct the Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk (collectively, the “County”) to consolidate the Measure with the County-administered elections of the same date; (iii) requests administrative election assistance from the County; (iv) sets priorities and deadlines for the submission of ballot arguments and rebuttals; and (v) directs the City Attorney to prepare an impartial analysis.
3. Adoption for first reading of an ordinance of the People of the City of Bell Gardens amending the City’s Municipal Code to increase the transactions and use tax rate from 3/4% to 1% and making other administrative modifications and updates requested by the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration. It is recommended that a second reading be conducted at the City Council meeting immediately following, with the understanding that the ordinance will only take effect if the Measure is approved by a simple majority of votes cast at the special election to be held on June 2, 2026.
4. Discuss and take action regarding the preparation of an Argument in Favor of the Measure, especially if there will be no other City Council meetings before the deadline for submitting ballot arguments which is March 4, 2026.
5.Provide such other direction incident to the placement of the Measure on the ballot and meeting deadlines for the submission of ballot arguments and rebuttals.
CONCLUSION
It is recommended that the City Council consider and approve the attached Resolution declaring a fiscal emergency and calling for a Special Municipal Election to present voters with a ballot measure to increase the City’s transactions and use tax along with other election-related action; and first reading approval of a related Ordinance codifying the proposed increase, subject to voter approval.
3 A unanimous vote of the members of the governing body has generally been interpreted to mean unanimity of those present when the vote is taken. See 75 Ops Cal Atty Gen 47 (1992), citing Tidewater S. Ry., Co. v. Jordan (1912) 163 C 105 (unanimous vote of governing body means such vote of those present).
FISCAL IMPACT
The cost of placing a ballot measure on the ballot for June 2, 2026, is approximately $150,000. This estimate is based on projected figures provided by the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk.
APPROVALS:
Michael B. O'Kelly, City Manager
Stephanie Vasquez, City Attorney
Manuel Carrillo, Director of Finance and Administrative Services
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RESOLUTION NO. 2026-20
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BELL
GARDENS, CALIFORNIA, (1) DECLARING A FISCAL EMERGENCY
WITHIN THE MEANING OF ARTICLE XIIIC, SECTION 2 OF THE
CALIFORNIA CONSTITUTION; (2) CALLING AND GIVING NOTICE OF A JUNE 2, 2026 SPECIAL ELECTION FOR THE SUBMISSION OF A
BALLOT MEASURE TO BELL GARDENS VOTERS INCREASING THE
CITY’S CURRENT THREE QUARTER PERCENT (3/4%)
TRANSACTIONS AND USE TAX TO ONE PERCENT (1%); (3)
REQUESTING CONSOLIDATION OF SAID SPECIAL ELECTION WITH
THE COUNTY-ADMINISTERED ELECTION OF THE SAME DATE; (4)
REQUESTING THAT THE REGISTRAR-RECORDER/COUNTY CLERK
PROVIDE SPECIFIC ELECTION ADMINISTRATION SERVICES; AND (5)
SETTING PRIORITIES FOR FILING WRITTEN ARGUMENTS AND
REBUTTALS REGARDING THE BALLOT MEASURE AND DIRECTING
PREPARATION OF AN IMPARTIAL ANALYSIS
WHEREAS, during the annual budget process, the Bell Gardens City Council (“City Council”) has recognized the growing financial pressures facing the City of Bell Gardens (“City”) due to the rising cost of providing City services, including essential City services; and
WHEREAS, these cost increases, combined with limited projected revenue growth and ongoing service demands, create a need for an additional locally controlled funding source to maintain the City’s high standard of public safety, community services, and parks and recreation programs, as well as address a growing need to fix and enhance aging infrastructure; and
WHEREAS, despite the City’s strong record of fiscal stewardship, including responsible budgeting, service prioritization, and efficiency improvements, continued increases in the cost of emergency response, public safety staffing, equipment upgrades, and community programs have made it increasingly difficult to sustain core services at current levels, and to improve infrastructure, public buildings, and parks, without additional revenue; and
WHEREAS, at the current levels, the City has a projected structural deficit; and WHEREAS, the only option to eliminate the anticipated structural deficit is to either increase revenues or decrease expenditure; and
WHEREAS, reduction in expenditures will result in a reduction of City services and delayed maintenance and repair efforts; and
Resolution No. 2026-20
2 of 20
WHEREAS, the General Fund is the main operating fund of the City that pays for public safety, public works, recreation services, community development, City administration and other general governmental purposes; and WHEREAS, certain City service levels have been maintained at the expense of the deferred maintenance and replacement of city infrastructure, facilities, and equipment; and
WHEREAS, many City facilities and equipment are aged and in need of frequent and sometimes enhanced maintenance as they get older; and WHEREAS, the City is also highly reliant on one revenue source, receiving approximately 38% of its General Fund revenue from the Bicycle Casino or about $19,020,000 (FY 2025-2026 budgeted amount); and
WHEREAS, casino revenues can be volatile historically, and may soon be significantly reduced in light of new regulations approved by the California Office of Administrative Law which take effect April 1, 2026 which will significantly restrict gaming operations of venues like the Bicycle Casino; and
WHEREAS, City staff has monitored the Bicycle Casino’s revenue throughout the first six (6) months of the current fiscal year and a detailed analysis of actuals received in the first six (6) months, has allowed finance staff to identify a daily revenue average, thus allowing for a projection moving forward for the remaining period of January to June 2026; WHEREAS, City staff, through its monitoring has determined the remaining year end projection for the Bicycle Casino for FY 2025-2026, is approximately $17,013,047, which would result in a Bicycle Casino revenue deficit of approximately $2,000,000 for FY 2025-2026; and
WHEREAS, the City’s existing 3/4% transactions use tax generates approximately $3.7M in general fund revenues each year; and an increase of the transactions and use tax rate to 1% will generate an additional $1.2 million annually; WHEREAS, pursuant to Revenue and Taxation Code Section 7285.9 et seq., the City has the authority to increase its existing local transaction and use tax; and WHEREAS, pursuant to Elections Code Section 9222, the City Council has the authority to submit measures to be considered by Bell Gardens voters at special municipal elections; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Chapter 3.22 (Transactions and Use Tax) of the Bell Gardens Municipal Code, the City currently levies a voter-approved 3/4 cent (or 3/4%) transactions and use tax, the proceeds of which are deposited into the general fund to be used for any governmental or public purpose; and
Resolution No. 2026-20
3 of 20
WHEREAS, the City Council now calls a June 2, 2026 special municipal election, to submit to Bell Gardens voters a ballot measure (hereinafter, the “Measure”) to adopt an ordinance that increases the City’s transactions and use tax rate, currently set at three quarters of percent (3/4%), by an additional one-quarter of a percent (1/4%) such that the new transactions and use tax rate will be one percent (1%); and WHEREAS, pursuant to Government Code Sections 53723 and 53724(b), Revenue and Taxation Code Section 7285.9, any proposed increase or extension of the City’s general purpose transactions and use tax must be approved by ordinance approved by no less than two-thirds of all the members of the City Council (i.e., by at least 4 “yes” votes), subject also to approval by Bell Gardens voters by a simple majority of votes cast (50% plus 1) at a City election; and
WHEREAS, Section 2(b) of Article XIIIC of the California Constitution further provides that an election required to approve the establishment of, or increase to, a general tax must be consolidated with a regularly scheduled general election for members of the governing body of the local government, except in cases of emergency, as is the case here, declared by a unanimous vote of members present of the governing body (See 75 Ops Cal Atty Gen 47 (1992), citing Tidewater S. Ry., Co. v Jordan (1912) 163 C 105); and
WHEREAS, concurrent with the approval of this Resolution, the City Council has also approved for first reading Ordinance No. 964 (hereinafter, “the Ordinance”) which, if the Measure is approved by Bell Gardens voters, implements the increase of the City’s transactions and use tax to one percent (1%) (A true and correct copy of the Ordinance is attached to this Resolution as Exhibit “A”); and
WHEREAS, the City Council requests that the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors (“Board”) authorize and direct the Los Angeles County Registrar- Recorder/County Clerk (hereinafter, “the County”) to consolidate the City’s June 2, 2026, special election with the County-administered Statewide Primary Election of the same date; and
WHEREAS, the City shall compensate the County for all necessary expenses incurred by the County in providing the special election administration services for the City, including any such additional costs arising out of the placement of the above- described ballot measure on the City’s June 2, 2026 ballot; and WHEREAS, the City Council also wishes to (i) establish deadlines and rules for the submission of written arguments and rebuttals for and against the Measure in accordance with applicable Elections Code procedures; (ii) direct the timely preparation of the City Attorney’s impartial analysis; and (iii) provide such other direction as may be necessary to facilitate the placement of the Measure on the ballot.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Bell Gardens as follows:
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SECTION 1. The City Council, after consideration of the staff report and discussion, hereby find that the above recitals are true and correct and incorporate them herein.
SECTION 2. Fiscal Emergency Findings. Based upon the foregoing Recitals and the oral and written reporting of City staff in the staff report materials that accompanied this resolution at the City Council’s meeting of February 23, 2026, the City Council hereby unanimously finds and declares a fiscal emergency, as the term "emergency" is used in Article XIIIC, Section 2( b) of the California Constitution, now exists in the City justifying the call for a special municipal election on June 2, 2026, in order that the City may propose, and the City voters may consider, adoption of a general tax ballot measure (to wit, the Measure) as contemplated herein to address that emergency by ensuring that the City has the resources necessary to preserve the public health, safety and welfare.
SECTION 3. Submission of Ballot Measure. Having satisfied the approval requirements of Government Code Sections 53723 and 53724(b), Revenue and Taxation Code Section 7285.9 and Article XIIIC, Section 2(b) of the California Constitution, the City Council, pursuant to Elections Code Section 9222 and 12001 hereby orders and calls a special municipal election to be held in the City of Bell Gardens, California on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, so that Bell Gardens voters may consider a ballot measure to increase the City’s existing three-quarters of a percent (3/4%) transactions and use tax to an increased rate of one percent (1%) and to make certain administrative amendments and updates to Municipal Code provisions that codify the City’s transactions and use tax as requested by the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration. If approved by the voters, the new tax rate shall be implemented by Ordinance No. 964 which is attached hereto as Exhibit “A” to this Resolution. The transactions and use tax that is the subject of the Measure is and will remain a general tax within the meaning of Proposition 218 whose proceeds may be deposited in the City’s general fund and used for any public or other governmental purpose. Accordingly, the vote requirement for passage of the proposed Measure is a majority of the votes cast (50% plus 1) at the June 2, 2026 special municipal election.
SECTION 4. Ballot Measure Question. The City Council does hereby order that the Measure shall be presented and printed upon the ballot submitted to the qualified voters in the manner and form set forth herein. There shall be printed substantially the following ballot question in compliance with Election Code Sections 9051, 13119(b) and 13247:
Keep Bell Gardens Sales Tax Revenues Local Measure
To protect and stabilize funding for Bell Gardens services like police/emergency response; maintenance/repair of streets, sidewalks and City facilities; park maintenance and
YES
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The City Council further directs City staff to request the letter designation “BG”, if available, such that the Measure may be identified on the ballot as “Measure “BG”. If the letter designation “BG” is unavailable, staff in its best judgement may consider alternative letter designations.
SECTION 5. Election Procedures.
A. The ballots to be used at the election shall be in form and content as required by law.
B. Pursuant to the requirements of Elections Code Sections 10002 and10403, the City respectfully requests that the County’s governing Board of Supervisors consent and agree to the following:
1. That the June 2, 2026 special municipal election, called by the City to present Bell Gardens voters with a City-initiated ballot measure seeking approval of the Ordinance, be consolidated with the County-administered election(s) of the same date; and
2. That the County’s governing Board of Supervisors consent to having the County render full election services to the City as may be requested by the Bell Gardens City Clerk (hereinafter, the “City Clerk”) with the understanding and agreement that the County will be reimbursed by the City in full for all services so provided; and
3. That the requested election services include: the preparation, printing and mailing of sample ballots and polling place cards; the establishment or appointment of precincts, polling places, and election officers, the preparation, printing, mailing and furnishing of vote-by-mail ballots, making such publications as are required by law in connection therewith; the furnishing of ballots, voting booths and other necessary supplies or materials for polling places; the canvassing of the returns of the election and the furnishing of the results of such canvassing to the City Clerk of the City of Bell Gardens and the performance of such other election services as may be requested by the City Clerk.
C. The City Clerk is authorized, instructed and directed to coordinate with the County of Los Angeles Registrar of Voters to procure and furnish any and all ballots, notices, printed matter and supplies, services, equipment and enhancements; youth/senior programs; Community Family
Service Center; and for any other general governmental
purpose, shall the City’s current 3/4% transactions (sales) and use tax rate be increased by a quarter percent to 1% to raise an additional $1.2 million annually?
NO
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paraphernalia that may be necessary in order to properly and lawfully conduct the election.
D. The polls for the election shall be open at 7:00 a.m. the day of the election and shall remain open continuously from that time until 8:00 p.m. of the same day when the polls shall be closed, pursuant to Elections Code Section 10242, except as provided in Elections Code Section 14401.
E. In all particulars not recited in this Resolution, the election shall be held and conducted as provided by law for the holding of municipal elections in the City.
F. Notice of the time, place, and holding of the election is given and the City Clerk is authorized, instructed, and directed to give further or additional notice of the election, in time, form, and manner as required by law.
G. All ballots shall be tallied at a central counting place and not at the precincts.
Said central counting place shall be at a ballot counting center designated by the County.
H. The County is authorized to canvass the returns of the City’s special election.
I. The City Clerk shall receive the canvass from the County as it pertains to the election on the measure, and shall certify the results to the City Council, as required by law.
J. The City’s General Municipal Election will be held and conducted in accordance with the provisions of law regulating such elections, including without limitation, Elections Code Section 10418.
SECTION 6. Arguments; Rebuttals and Impartial Analysis.
A. Direct Arguments for and Against the Measure.
1. The City Council acknowledge Elections Code Section 9282(b) and 9287 which provide as follows:
(a) When a measure is placed on the ballot by a legislative body, the legislative body, or a member or members of the legislative body authorized by that body, or an individual voter who is eligible to vote on the measure, or bona fide association of citizens, or a combination of voters and associations, may file a 300 word or less written argument in favor of the measure; and
(b)If more than one argument in favor of a measure is submitted, the City Clerk shall give preference and priority, in the order named, to the arguments submitted by the following person(s) and entities: (A) the
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legislative body, or member or members of the legislative body authorized by that body; (B) an individual voter, or bona fide association of citizens, or combination of a voter(s) and associations, who are the bona fide sponsors or proponents of the measure; (C) a bona fide associations of citizens; and (D) individual voters who are eligible to vote on the measure.
Provided such argument is submitted by or before the deadline for submitting ballot arguments, the City Council, by motion, reserves the right to designate and delegate one or more if its members to author an argument in favor of the City’s measure and recognition of Elections Code Section 9283 which limits the number of signatories to the argument to five, prescribe a process or criteria for determining who should be selected to sign.
2. Arguments against the proposed ballot measure, if any, shall also be subject to the provisions of Elections Code Sections 9282 and 9287.
3. The deadline date and time for submitting arguments for or against the measure to the City Clerk is March 4, 2026, by 6:00 p.m., after which time no arguments for or against the measure will be accepted. Arguments for or against the measure may not exceed 300 words in length. Each argument shall be filed with the City Clerk, signed, and include the printed name(s) and signature(s) of the author(s) submitting it, or if submitted on behalf of an organization, the name of the organization, and the printed name and signature of at least one of its principal officers who is the author of the argument.
4. The City Clerk shall comply with all provisions of law establishing priority of arguments for printing and distribution to the voters, and shall take all necessary actions to cause the selected arguments to be printed and distributed to the voters.
B. Rebuttal Arguments.
1. Pursuant to Elections Code Sections 9285 and 9287, when the City Clerk selects the arguments for and against the City-initiated measure to be printed and distributed to the voters, the City Clerk will send a copy of the argument in favor of the measure to the authors of the argument against the measure, and a copy of the argument against to the authors of the argument in favor of the measure.
2. The authors of the respective arguments for and against the measure or persons designated by them may then prepare and submit rebuttal arguments not exceeding 250 words in length. The deadline for submitting rebuttal arguments to the City Clerk is March 16, 2026, by 6:00 p.m. after
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which time no rebuttal arguments will be accepted. Rebuttal arguments shall be printed in the same manner as the direct arguments. Each rebuttal argument shall immediately follow the direct argument which it seeks to rebut.
C. City Attorney’s Impartial Analysis. Pursuant to Elections Code Section 9280, the City Council directs the City Clerk to transmit a copy of the measure to the City Attorney so that the City Attorney may prepare an impartial analysis of the measure, not to exceed 500 words in length. The impartial analysis should explain what the measure will do if approved and enacted and how that impacts/changes existing law. The City Attorney shall transmit its impartial analysis to the City Clerk, who shall cause the analysis to be published in the voter information guide along with the ballot measure as provided by law. The Impartial Analysis shall be filed no later than March 4, 2026. In the event the entire text of the measure is not printed on the ballot, nor in the voter information portion of the sample ballot, there shall be printed immediately below the impartial analysis, in no less than 10-font bold type, the following: “The above statement is an impartial analysis of Ordinance or Measure. If you desire a copy of the ordinance or measure, please call the election official's office at [insert phone number] and a copy will be mailed at no cost to you.” D. Delivery of Materials. Any materials that must be submitted to the City Clerk must be delivered in person to the Office of the City Clerk located at Bell Gardens City Hall, 7100 Garfield Avenue, Bell Gardens, CA 90201. Except as otherwise provided in this paragraph, materials delivered to the City Clerk must be delivered during regular business hours which are Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
SECTION 7. Manner of Placement on the Ballot. The City Clerk is delegated discretion to direct the County to undertake one of the following placement options: (a) Print a 75 word abbreviated ballot measure text (prescribed by law) only; (b) Print a 75 word abbreviated ballot measure text and include Official Sample Ballot Notice advising voters to call the City Clerk’s Office and request a free copy of the ballot measure enclosure (OR) that the city will be sending voters a supplemental mailing; or (c) Print a 75 word abbreviated ballot measure text and include Full Ballot Measure Enclosure Text in the Official Sample Ballot Booklet.
SECTION 8. City Clerk Tasks.
A. Delivery of Resolution to County: The City Clerk shall certify the passage and adoption of this Resolution and enter it into the book of original resolutions. The City Council directs the City Clerk to deliver copies of this Resolution, including the Ordinance to the Clerk of the County’s governing Board of Supervisors and to the Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk for the County of Los Angeles.
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B. Publication of Ballot Measure Synopsis: As required by Elections Code Section 12111, the City Clerk shall publish a synopsis of the measure at least one time not later than one week before the date of the June 2, 2026 election in a newspaper of general circulation in the City or as may otherwise be permitted by law. The notice shall be headed “Measure to be Voted On” in conspicuous type and shall be substantially in the following form:
“MEASURE TO BE VOTED ON
Notice is hereby given that the following measure is to be voted on at a special municipal election to be held in the City of Bell Gardens, on Tuesday, the 2nd day of June 2026.
[Text of synopsis of measure]
Dated _______
_______________
City Clerk”
SECTION 9. Public Examination. Pursuant to Elections Code Section 9295, this measure will be available for public examination for no fewer than ten (10) calendar days prior to being submitted for printing in the voter information guide. The Clerk shall post notice in the Clerk’s office of the specific dates that the examination period will run.
SECTION 10. CEQA. The City Council hereby finds and determines that the ballot measure relates to organizational or administrative activities of governments that will not result in direct or indirect physical changes in the environment, and therefore is not a project within the meaning of the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) and the State CEQA Guidelines, section 15378(b)(5).
SECTION 11. Severability. If any provision of this Resolution or the application thereof to any person or circumstance is held invalid, such invalidity shall not affect other provisions or applications of the Resolution which can be given effect without the invalid provision or application, and to this end the provisions of this Resolution are severable.
The City Council hereby declares that it would have adopted this Resolution irrespective of the invalidity of any particular portion thereof.
SECTION 12. Effective Date of Resolution. This Resolution shall take effect immediately upon its adoption. The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this Resolution which shall be effective upon its adoption. The City Clerk is hereby directed to file a certified copy of this Resolution with the County’s governing Board of Supervisors and the Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk for the County of Los Angeles. [Signatures on following page]
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PASSED, APPROVED, and ADOPTED this 23rd day of February, 2026.
THE CITY OF BELL GARDENS
Miguel De La Rosa, Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM: ATTEST:
Stephanie Vasquez Daisy Gomez
City Attorney City Clerk
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EXHIBIT “A”
ORDINANCE NO. 964
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ORDINANCE NO. 964
AN ORDINANCE OF THE PEOPLE OF THE CITY OF BELL
GARDENS, CALIFORNIA, INCREASING THE CITY’S EXISTING
GENERAL PURPOSE THREE-QUARTERS OF A PERCENT
(3/4%) TRANSACIONS AND USE TAX RATE TO A NEW RATE OF
ONE PERCENT (1%) AS CODIFIED UNDER CHAPTER 3.22
(TRANSACTIONS AND USE TAX) OF TITLE 3 (REVENUE AND
FINANCE) OF THE BELL GARDENS MUNICIPAL CODE
WHEREAS, pursuant to Revenue and Taxation Code Section 7285.9 et seq., the City of Bell Gardens (“City”) has the authority to collect a local transaction and use tax and to increase that transactions and use tax; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Elections Code Section 9222, the Bell Gardens City Council (“City Council”) has the authority to submit measures to be considered by Bell Gardens voters at a special municipal election; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Chapter 3.22 (Transactions and Use Tax) of Title 3 (Revenue and Finance) of the Bell Gardens Municipal Code, the City currently levies a voter-approved 3/4 cent (or 3/4%) transactions and use tax, the proceeds of which are deposited into the general fund to be used for any general municipal purpose; and WHEREAS, the City Council called a June 2, 2026 special election, to submit to Bell Gardens voters an ordinance that increases the City’s transactions and use tax rate, currently set at three-quarters of a percent (3/4%), by an additional one-quarter of a percent (1/4%) such that the new transactions and use tax rate will be one percent (1%); and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Government Code Sections 53723 and 53724(b), Revenue and Taxation Code Section 7285.9, the placement on the ballot of any proposed ballot measure increasing or extending a general purpose transactions and use tax must be approved by no less than two-thirds of all the members of the City Council (i.e., by at least 4 “yes” votes), subject also to approval by Bell Gardens voters by a simple majority of votes cast (50% plus 1) at a City election; and
WHEREAS, Section 2(b) of Article XIIIC of the California Constitution further provides that an election required to approve the establishment of, or increase to, a general tax must be consolidated with a regularly scheduled general election for members of the governing body of the local government, except in cases of emergency, as was the situation here, declared by a unanimous vote of members present of the governing body (See 75 Ops Cal Atty Gen 47 (1992), citing Tidewater S. Ry., Co. v Jordan (1912) 163 C 105); and
WHEREAS, in compliance with Government Code Sections 53723 and 53724(b), Revenue and Taxation Code Section 7285.9, and Section 2(b) of Article XIIIC of the
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California Constitution, the City Council at its meeting of February 23, 2026, approved City Council Resolution No. 2026-20 which (i) called and gave notice of the submission to Bell Gardens voters of a ballot measure to an increase to the City’s 1% transactions and use tax to 1.25; (ii) made a unanimous finding of a fiscal “emergency” within the meaning of Section 2(b) of Article XIIIC(ii) of the California Constitution; (iii) acknowledged the concurrent first-reading approval of this Ordinance by the City Council; (iv) ordered that the ballot measure be submitted as part of the City’s June 2, 2026 special municipal election, which is to be consolidated with the County-administered elections of the same date; (v) requested the County to provide administrative services and support for its special municipal election, inclusive of the ballot measure; and (vi) setting priorities for the submission of arguments and rebuttals and ordering the preparation of the City Attorney’s Impartial Analysis; and
WHEREAS, the ballot measure seeking approval of this Ordinance was given the letter designation Measure “___” which presented the following question to Bell Gardens voters:
WHEREAS, this Ordinance was provisionally approved by the City Council for first reading and second reading on February 23, 2026 and March 9, 2026, respectively, subject to the requirement that the ballot measure authorizing the implementation of this Ordinance is in fact approved by Bell Gardens voters at a special municipal election held June 2, 2026; and
WHEREAS, as required by Government Code Sections 53723 and 53724(b), Revenue and Taxation Code Section 7285.9, and Section 2(b) of Article XIIIC of the California Constitution, the ballot measure seeking approval of this Ordinance was approved by a simple majority of votes cast at the City’s special municipal election of June 2, 2026, by a final count of _________ “Yes” votes (or ______% “Yes”) to ________ “No” votes (or _____% “No”); and
WHEREAS, at its meeting of ______________, 2026, the City Council approved Resolution No. _______ reciting the fact of the City’s June 2, 2026 Special Election, and declaring the results of the same.
YES
Keep Bell Gardens Sales Tax Revenues Local Measure
To protect and stabilize funding for Bell Gardens services like police/emergency response; maintenance/repair of streets, sidewalks and City facilities; park maintenance and
enhancements; youth/senior programs; Community Family
Service Center; and for any other general governmental purpose, shall the City’s current 3/4% transactions (sales) and use tax rate be increased by a quarter percent to 1% to raise an additional $1.2 million annually?
NO
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NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BELL GARDENS, ACTING WITH THE CONSENT OF THE VOTERS FOLLOWING A JUNE 2, 2026 SPECIAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION, HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The Recitals set forth above are true and correct and incorporated into this Ordinance.
SECTION 2. Section 3.22.010 (Short title) of Chapter 3.22 (Transactions and Use Tax) of Title 3 (Revenue and Finance) of the Bell Gardens Municipal Code is hereby amended in its entirety to now state the following:
3.22.010 Short title.
This chapter shall be known as the City of Bell Gardens Transactions and Use Tax Ordinance. All references to “this ordinance” as used in this chapter shall mean Chapter 3.22 (Transactions and use tax) of Title 3 (Revenue and Finance) of the Bell Gardens Municipal Code. The City of Bell Gardens hereinafter shall be called “City.” This ordinance shall be applicable in the incorporated territory of the City of Bell Gardens.
SECTION 3. Section 3.22.020 (Operative Date) of Chapter 3.22 (Transactions and use tax) of Title 3 (Revenue and Finance) of the Bell Gardens Municipal Code is hereby amended in its entirety to now state the following:
3.22.020 Operative Date.
A. The transactions and use tax codified under this ordinance was first approved by Bell Gardens voters at a municipal election held November 3, 2020, and pursuant to Revenue and Taxation Code Section 7265 became operative on the first day of the calendar quarter commencing 110 days after its adoption, April 1, 2021 at an original rate of three-quarters of a percent (3/4%).
B. On June 2, 2026, Bell Gardens voters approved a City-initiated ballot measure to increase the transactions and use tax rate to one percent (1%). For purposes of this ordinance the term “operative date” shall mean October 1, 2026, the date upon which the increased one percent (1%) transactions and use tax rate shall take effect.
SECTION 4. Section 3.22.050 (Transactions tax rate) of Chapter 3.22 (Transactions and use tax) of Title 3 (Revenue and Finance) of the Bell Gardens Municipal Code is hereby amended in its entirety to now state the following:
3.22.050 Transactions tax rate.
For the privilege of selling tangible personal property at retail, a tax is hereby imposed upon all retailers in the incorporated territory of the City at the rate of one
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percent (1%) of the gross receipts of any retailer from the sale of all tangible personal property sold at retail in said territory on and after the operative date of this ordinance.
SECTION 5. Section 3.22.070 (Use tax rate) of Chapter 3.22 (Transactions and use tax) of Title 3 (Revenue and Finance) of the Bell Gardens Municipal Code is hereby amended in its entirety to now state the following:
Section 3.22.070 Use tax rate.
An excise tax is hereby imposed on the storage, use or other consumption in the City of tangible personal property purchased from any retailer on and after the operative date of this ordinance for storage, use or other consumption in said territory at the rate of one percent (1%) of the sales price of the property. The sales price shall include delivery charges when such charges are subject to state sales or use tax regardless of the place to which delivery is made.
SECTION 6. Section 3.22.090 (Limitations on adoption of state law and collection of use taxes) of Chapter 3.22 (Transactions and use tax) of Title 3 (Revenue and Finance) of the Bell Gardens Municipal Code is hereby amended in its entirety to now state the following:
Section 3.22.090 Limitations on adoption of state law and collection of use taxes.
In adopting the provisions of Part 1 of Division 2 of the Revenue and Taxation Code:
A. Wherever the State of California is named or referred to as the taxing agency, the name of this City shall be substituted therefor. However, the substitution shall not be made when:
1. The word "State" is used as a part of the title of the State Controller, State Treasurer, State Treasury, or the Constitution of the State of California;
2. The result of that substitution would require action to be taken by or against this City or any agency, officer, or employee thereof rather than by or against the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration, in performing the functions incident to the administration or operation of this ordinance;
3. In those sections, including, but not necessarily limited to sections referring to the exterior boundaries of the State of California, where the result of the substitution would be to:
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a. Provide an exemption from this tax with respect to certain sales, storage, use or other consumption of tangible personal property which would not otherwise be exempt from this tax while such sales, storage, use or other consumption remain subject to tax by the State under the provisions of Part 1 of Division 2 of the Revenue and Taxation Code, or
b. Impose this tax with respect to certain sales, storage, use or other consumption of tangible personal property which would not be subject to tax by the state under the said provision of that code.
4. In Sections 6701, 6702 (except in the last sentence thereof), 6711, 6715, 6737, 6797 or 6828 of the Revenue and Taxation Code.
B. The word "City" shall be substituted for the word "State" in the phrase "retailer engaged in business in this State" in Section 6203 and in the definition of that phrase in Section 6203.
1. “A retailer engaged in business in the District” shall also include any retailer that, in the preceding calendar year or the current calendar year, has total combined sales of tangible personal property in this state or for delivery in the State by the retailer and all persons related to the retailer that exceeds five hundred thousand dollars ($500,000). For purposes of this ordinance, a person is related to another person if both persons are related to each other pursuant to Section 267(b) of Title 26 of the United States Code and the regulations thereunder.
SECTION 7. Section 3.22.110 (Exemptions and exclusions) of Chapter 3.22 (Transactions and use tax) of Title 3 (Revenue and Finance) of the Bell Gardens Municipal Code is hereby amended in its entirety to now state the following:
Section 3.22.110 Exemptions and exclusions.
A. There shall be excluded from the measure of the transactions tax and the use tax the amount of any sales tax or use tax imposed by the State of California or by any city, city and county, or county pursuant to the Bradley-Burns Uniform Local Sales and Use Tax Law or the amount of any state- administered transactions or use tax.
B. There are exempted from the computation of the amount of transactions tax the gross receipts from:
1. Sales of tangible personal property, other than fuel or petroleum products, to operators of aircraft to be used or consumed principally outside the county in which the sale is made and directly and exclusively in the use of such aircraft as common carriers of persons or property
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under the authority of the laws of this State, the United States, or any foreign government.
2. Sales of property to be used outside the City, which is shipped to a point outside the City, pursuant to the contract of sale, by delivery to such point by the retailer or his agent, or by delivery by the retailer to a carrier for shipment to a consignee at such point. For the purposes of this paragraph, delivery to a point outside the City shall be satisfied:
a. With respect to vehicles (other than commercial vehicles) subject to registration pursuant to Chapter 1 (commencing with Section 4000) of Division 3 of the Vehicle Code, aircraft licensed in compliance with Section 21411 of the Public Utilities Code, and undocumented vessels registered under Division 3.5 (commencing with Section 9840) of the Vehicle Code by registration to an out-of- City address and by a declaration under penalty of perjury, signed by the buyer, stating that such address is, in fact, his or her principal place of residence; and
b. With respect to commercial vehicles, by registration to a place of business out-of-City and declaration under penalty of perjury, signed by the buyer, that the vehicle will be operated from that address.
3. The sale of tangible personal property if the seller is obligated to furnish the property for a fixed price pursuant to a contract entered into prior to the operative date of this ordinance.
4. A lease of tangible personal property, which is a continuing sale of such property, for any period of time for which the lessor is obligated to lease the property for an amount fixed by the lease prior to the operative date of this ordinance.
5. For the purposes of subparagraphs (B)(3) and (B)(4) of this ordinance, above, the sale or lease of tangible personal property shall be deemed not to be obligated pursuant to a contract or lease for any period of time for which any party to the contract or lease has the unconditional right to terminate the contract or lease upon notice, whether or not such right is exercised.
C. There are exempted from the use tax imposed by this ordinance, the storage, use or other consumption in this City of tangible personal property:
1. The gross receipts from the sale of which have been subject to a transactions tax under any state-administered transactions and use tax ordinance.
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2. Other than fuel or petroleum products purchased by operators of aircraft and used or consumed by such operators directly and exclusively in the use of such aircraft as common carriers of persons or property for hire or compensation under a certificate of public convenience and necessity issued pursuant to the laws of this State, the United States, or any foreign government. This exemption is in addition to the exemptions provided in Sections 6366 and 6366.1 of the Revenue and Taxation Code of the State of California.
3. If the purchaser is obligated to purchase the property for a fixed price pursuant to a contract entered into prior to the operative date of this ordinance.
4. If the possession of, or the exercise of any right or power over, the tangible personal property arises under a lease which is a continuing purchase of such property for any period of time for which the lessee is obligated to lease the property for an amount fixed by a lease prior to the operative date of this ordinance.
5. For the purposes of subparagraphs (C)(3) and (C)(4) of this ordinance, above, storage, use, or other consumption, or possession of, or exercise of any right or power over, tangible personal property shall be deemed not to be obligated pursuant to a contract or lease for any period of time for which any party to the contract or lease has the unconditional right to terminate the contract or lease upon notice, whether or not such right is exercised.
6. Except as provided in subparagraph (C)(7), below, a retailer engaged in business in the City shall not be required to collect use tax from the purchaser of tangible personal property, unless the retailer ships or delivers the property into the City or participates within the City in making the sale of the property, including, but not limited to, soliciting or receiving the order, either directly or indirectly, at a place of business of the retailer in the City or through any representative, agent, canvasser, solicitor, subsidiary, or person in the City under the authority of the retailer.
7. "A retailer engaged in business in the City" shall also include any retailer of any of the following: vehicles subject to registration pursuant to Chapter 1 (commencing with Section 4000) of Division 3 of the Vehicle Code, aircraft licensed in compliance with Section 21411 of the Public Utilities Code, or undocumented vessels registered under Division 3.5 (commencing with Section 9840) of the Vehicle Code. That retailer shall be required to collect use tax from any purchaser who registers or licenses the vehicle, vessel, or aircraft at an address in the City.
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D. Any person subject to use tax under this ordinance may credit against that tax any transactions tax or reimbursement for transactions tax paid to a district imposing, or retailer liable for a transactions tax pursuant to Part 1.6 of Division 2 of the Revenue and Taxation Code with respect to the sale to the person of the property the storage, use or other consumption of which is subject to the use tax.
SECTION 8. Severability. If any provision of this Ordinance or the application thereof to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the Ordinance and the application of such provision to other persons or circumstances shall not be affected thereby.
SECTION 9. Effective Date.
A. This Ordinance relates to an increase to the City’s transactions (sales) and use tax rate from three-quarters of a percent (3/4%) to one percent (1%). The foregoing notwithstanding, this Ordinance may only become operative if approved by a simple majority of votes cast by Bell Gardens voters at a June 2, 2026 Special Municipal meeting.
If approved by the voters, the transaction and use tax rate set forth under Chapter 3.22 (Transactions and Use Tax) of the Bell Gardens Municipal Code will increase to one percent (1%). If the measure fails, this Ordinance shall be rendered inoperative and void, however, the defeat of the Measure shall not operate to extinguish or amend the existing transaction and use tax as presently constituted and last approved by Bell Gardens voters in 2020.
B. The increased tax rate established under this Ordinance shall not go into effect until October 1, 2026. Upon October 1, 2026, the current text of Chapter 3.22 (Transactions and Use Tax) of the Bell Gardens Municipal Code shall be amended and updated as referenced above in italics under Section 2-7 of this Ordinance. By passage of the Measure and approval of this Ordinance, the City may make, without additional voter approval, clerical, formatting or numbering corrections to the aforementioned text to ensure conformity with the requirements of the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration and to ensure internal consistency within the Bell Gardens Municipal Code, provided that no such corrections may result in an increase to the transactions and use tax rate above the voter-approved rate of one percent (1%).
SECTION 10. CEQA. This Ordinance and the contemplated levy of the transactions and use tax referenced herein is of the California Public Resources Code (“CEQA”) because it will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment, nor does it involve any commitment to any specific project which may result in a potentially significant physical impact on the environment.
SECTION 11. Duration Unchanged. The transactions and use tax increased under this Ordinance shall continue to be of an indefinite term unless and until repealed by Bell Gardens voters.
Resolution No. 2026-20
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SECTION 12. Certification Of Adoption. The City Clerk shall certify the adoption of this Ordinance and shall cause the same to be published pursuant to California Government Code Section 36933, following approval by Bell Gardens voters at the City’s special election held of June 2, 2026.
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED this day of , 2026.
THE CITY OF BELL GARDENS
Miguel De La Rosa, Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM: ATTEST:
________________________________ _______________________________ Stephanie Vasquez Daisy Gomez
City Attorney City Clerk
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ORDINANCE NO. 964
AN ORDINANCE OF THE PEOPLE OF THE CITY OF BELL
GARDENS, CALIFORNIA, INCREASING THE CITY’S EXISTING
GENERAL PURPOSE THREE-QUARTERS OF A PERCENT
(3/4%) TRANSACIONS AND USE TAX RATE TO A NEW RATE OF
ONE PERCENT (1%) AS CODIFIED UNDER CHAPTER 3.22
(TRANSACTIONS AND USE TAX) OF TITLE 3 (REVENUE AND
FINANCE) OF THE BELL GARDENS MUNICIPAL CODE
WHEREAS, pursuant to Revenue and Taxation Code Section 7285.9 et seq., the City of Bell Gardens (“City”) has the authority to collect a local transaction and use tax and to increase that transactions and use tax; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Elections Code Section 9222, the Bell Gardens City Council (“City Council”) has the authority to submit measures to be considered by Bell Gardens voters at a special municipal election; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Chapter 3.22 (Transactions and Use Tax) of Title 3 (Revenue and Finance) of the Bell Gardens Municipal Code, the City currently levies a voter-approved 3/4 cent (or 3/4%) transactions and use tax, the proceeds of which are deposited into the general fund to be used for any general municipal purpose; and WHEREAS, the City Council called a June 2, 2026 special election, to submit to Bell Gardens voters an ordinance that increases the City’s transactions and use tax rate, currently set at three-quarters of a percent (3/4%), by an additional one-quarter of a percent (1/4%) such that the new transactions and use tax rate will be one percent (1%); and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Government Code Sections 53723 and 53724(b), Revenue and Taxation Code Section 7285.9, the placement on the ballot of any proposed ballot measure increasing or extending a general purpose transactions and use tax must be approved by no less than two-thirds of all the members of the City Council (i.e., by at least 4 “yes” votes), subject also to approval by Bell Gardens voters by a simple majority of votes cast (50% plus 1) at a City election; and
WHEREAS, Section 2(b) of Article XIIIC of the California Constitution further provides that an election required to approve the establishment of, or increase to, a general tax must be consolidated with a regularly scheduled general election for members of the governing body of the local government, except in cases of emergency, as was the situation here, declared by a unanimous vote of members present of the governing body (See 75 Ops Cal Atty Gen 47 (1992), citing Tidewater S. Ry., Co. v Jordan (1912) 163 C 105); and
WHEREAS, in compliance with Government Code Sections 53723 and 53724(b), Revenue and Taxation Code Section 7285.9, and Section 2(b) of Article XIIIC of the California Constitution, the City Council at its meeting of February 23, 2026, approved
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City Council Resolution No. 2026-20 which (i) called and gave notice of the submission to Bell Gardens voters of a ballot measure to an increase to the City’s 1% transactions and use tax to 1.25; (ii) made a unanimous finding of a fiscal “emergency” within the meaning of Section 2(b) of Article XIIIC(ii) of the California Constitution; (iii) acknowledged the concurrent first-reading approval of this Ordinance by the City Council; (iv) ordered that the ballot measure be submitted as part of the City’s June 2, 2026 special municipal election, which is to be consolidated with the County-administered elections of the same date; (v) requested the County to provide administrative services and support for its special municipal election, inclusive of the ballot measure; and (vi) setting priorities for the submission of arguments and rebuttals and ordering the preparation of the City Attorney’s Impartial Analysis; and
WHEREAS, the ballot measure seeking approval of this Ordinance was given the letter designation Measure “___” which presented the following question to Bell Gardens voters:
WHEREAS, this Ordinance was provisionally approved by the City Council for first reading and second reading on February 23, 2026 and March 9, 2026, respectively, subject to the requirement that the ballot measure authorizing the implementation of this Ordinance is in fact approved by Bell Gardens voters at a special municipal election held June 2, 2026; and
WHEREAS, as required by Government Code Sections 53723 and 53724(b), Revenue and Taxation Code Section 7285.9, and Section 2(b) of Article XIIIC of the California Constitution, the ballot measure seeking approval of this Ordinance was approved by a simple majority of votes cast at the City’s special municipal election of June 2, 2026, by a final count of _________ “Yes” votes (or ______% “Yes”) to ________ “No” votes (or _____% “No”); and
WHEREAS, at its meeting of ______________, 2026, the City Council approved Resolution No. _______ reciting the fact of the City’s June 2, 2026 Special Election, and declaring the results of the same.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BELL GARDENS, ACTING WITH THE CONSENT OF THE VOTERS FOLLOWING A JUNE 2, 2026 SPECIAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION, HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The Recitals set forth above are true and correct and incorporated into this Ordinance.
YES
Keep Bell Gardens Sales Tax Revenues Local Measure
To protect and stabilize funding for Bell Gardens services like police/emergency response; maintenance/repair of streets, sidewalks and City facilities; park maintenance and
enhancements; youth/senior programs; Community Family
Service Center; and for any other general governmental purpose, shall the City’s current 3/4% transactions (sales) and use tax rate be increased by a quarter percent to 1% to raise an additional $1.2 million annually?
NO
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SECTION 2. Section 3.22.010 (Short title) of Chapter 3.22 (Transactions and Use Tax) of Title 3 (Revenue and Finance) of the Bell Gardens Municipal Code is hereby amended in its entirety to now state the following:
3.22.010 Short title.
This chapter shall be known as the City of Bell Gardens Transactions and Use Tax Ordinance. All references to “this ordinance” as used in this chapter shall mean Chapter 3.22 (Transactions and use tax) of Title 3 (Revenue and Finance) of the Bell Gardens Municipal Code. The City of Bell Gardens hereinafter shall be called “City.” This ordinance shall be applicable in the incorporated territory of the City of Bell Gardens.
SECTION 3. Section 3.22.020 (Operative Date) of Chapter 3.22 (Transactions and use tax) of Title 3 (Revenue and Finance) of the Bell Gardens Municipal Code is hereby amended in its entirety to now state the following:
3.22.020 Operative Date.
A. The transactions and use tax codified under this ordinance was first approved by Bell Gardens voters at a municipal election held November 3, 2020, and pursuant to Revenue and Taxation Code Section 7265 became operative on the first day of the calendar quarter commencing 110 days after its adoption, April 1, 2021 at an original rate of three-quarters of a percent (3/4%).
B. On June 2, 2026, Bell Gardens voters approved a City-initiated ballot measure to increase the transactions and use tax rate to one percent (1%). For purposes of this ordinance the term “operative date” shall mean October 1, 2026, the date upon which the increased one percent (1%) transactions and use tax rate shall take effect.
SECTION 4. Section 3.22.050 (Transactions tax rate) of Chapter 3.22 (Transactions and use tax) of Title 3 (Revenue and Finance) of the Bell Gardens Municipal Code is hereby amended in its entirety to now state the following:
3.22.050 Transactions tax rate.
For the privilege of selling tangible personal property at retail, a tax is hereby imposed upon all retailers in the incorporated territory of the City at the rate of one percent (1%) of the gross receipts of any retailer from the sale of all tangible personal property sold at retail in said territory on and after the operative date of this ordinance.
SECTION 5. Section 3.22.070 (Use tax rate) of Chapter 3.22 (Transactions and use tax) of Title 3 (Revenue and Finance) of the Bell Gardens Municipal Code is hereby amended in its entirety to now state the following:
Section 3.22.070 Use tax rate.
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An excise tax is hereby imposed on the storage, use or other consumption in the City of tangible personal property purchased from any retailer on and after the operative date of this ordinance for storage, use or other consumption in said territory at the rate of one percent (1%) of the sales price of the property. The sales price shall include delivery charges when such charges are subject to state sales or use tax regardless of the place to which delivery is made.
SECTION 6. Section 3.22.090 (Limitations on adoption of state law and collection of use taxes) of Chapter 3.22 (Transactions and use tax) of Title 3 (Revenue and Finance) of the Bell Gardens Municipal Code is hereby amended in its entirety to now state the following:
Section 3.22.090 Limitations on adoption of state law and collection of use taxes.
In adopting the provisions of Part 1 of Division 2 of the Revenue and Taxation Code:
A. Wherever the State of California is named or referred to as the taxing agency, the name of this City shall be substituted therefor. However, the substitution shall not be made when:
1. The word "State" is used as a part of the title of the State Controller, State Treasurer, State Treasury, or the Constitution of the State of California;
2. The result of that substitution would require action to be taken by or against this City or any agency, officer, or employee thereof rather than by or against the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration, in performing the functions incident to the administration or operation of this ordinance;
3. In those sections, including, but not necessarily limited to sections referring to the exterior boundaries of the State of California, where the result of the substitution would be to:
a. Provide an exemption from this tax with respect to certain sales, storage, use or other consumption of tangible personal property which would not otherwise be exempt from this tax while such sales, storage, use or other consumption remain subject to tax by the State under the provisions of Part 1 of Division 2 of the Revenue and Taxation Code, or
b. Impose this tax with respect to certain sales, storage, use or other consumption of tangible personal property which would not be subject to tax by the state under the said provision of that code.
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4. In Sections 6701, 6702 (except in the last sentence thereof), 6711, 6715, 6737, 6797 or 6828 of the Revenue and Taxation Code.
B. The word "City" shall be substituted for the word "State" in the phrase "retailer engaged in business in this State" in Section 6203 and in the definition of that phrase in Section 6203.
1. “A retailer engaged in business in the District” shall also include any retailer that, in the preceding calendar year or the current calendar year, has total combined sales of tangible personal property in this state or for delivery in the State by the retailer and all persons related to the retailer that exceeds five hundred thousand dollars ($500,000). For purposes of this ordinance, a person is related to another person if both persons are related to each other pursuant to Section 267(b) of Title 26 of the United States Code and the regulations thereunder.
SECTION 7. Section 3.22.110 (Exemptions and exclusions) of Chapter 3.22 (Transactions and use tax) of Title 3 (Revenue and Finance) of the Bell Gardens Municipal Code is hereby amended in its entirety to now state the following:
Section 3.22.110 Exemptions and exclusions.
A. There shall be excluded from the measure of the transactions tax and the use tax the amount of any sales tax or use tax imposed by the State of California or by any city, city and county, or county pursuant to the Bradley-Burns Uniform Local Sales and Use Tax Law or the amount of any state- administered transactions or use tax.
B. There are exempted from the computation of the amount of transactions tax the gross receipts from:
1. Sales of tangible personal property, other than fuel or petroleum products, to operators of aircraft to be used or consumed principally outside the county in which the sale is made and directly and exclusively in the use of such aircraft as common carriers of persons or property under the authority of the laws of this State, the United States, or any foreign government.
2. Sales of property to be used outside the City, which is shipped to a point outside the City, pursuant to the contract of sale, by delivery to such point by the retailer or his agent, or by delivery by the retailer to a carrier for shipment to a consignee at such point. For the purposes of this paragraph, delivery to a point outside the City shall be satisfied:
a. With respect to vehicles (other than commercial vehicles) subject to registration pursuant to Chapter 1 (commencing with Section 4000) of Division 3 of the Vehicle Code, aircraft licensed in compliance with Section 21411 of the Public Utilities Code, and undocumented vessels registered under Division 3.5 (commencing
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with Section 9840) of the Vehicle Code by registration to an out-of- City address and by a declaration under penalty of perjury, signed by the buyer, stating that such address is, in fact, his or her principal place of residence; and
b. With respect to commercial vehicles, by registration to a place of business out-of-City and declaration under penalty of perjury, signed by the buyer, that the vehicle will be operated from that address.
3. The sale of tangible personal property if the seller is obligated to furnish the property for a fixed price pursuant to a contract entered into prior to the operative date of this ordinance.
4. A lease of tangible personal property, which is a continuing sale of such property, for any period of time for which the lessor is obligated to lease the property for an amount fixed by the lease prior to the operative date of this ordinance.
5. For the purposes of subparagraphs (B)(3) and (B)(4) of this ordinance, above, the sale or lease of tangible personal property shall be deemed not to be obligated pursuant to a contract or lease for any period of time for which any party to the contract or lease has the unconditional right to terminate the contract or lease upon notice, whether or not such right is exercised.
C. There are exempted from the use tax imposed by this ordinance, the storage, use or other consumption in this City of tangible personal property:
1. The gross receipts from the sale of which have been subject to a transactions tax under any state-administered transactions and use tax ordinance.
2. Other than fuel or petroleum products purchased by operators of aircraft and used or consumed by such operators directly and exclusively in the use of such aircraft as common carriers of persons or property for hire or compensation under a certificate of public convenience and necessity issued pursuant to the laws of this State, the United States, or any foreign government. This exemption is in addition to the exemptions provided in Sections 6366 and 6366.1 of the Revenue and Taxation Code of the State of California.
3. If the purchaser is obligated to purchase the property for a fixed price pursuant to a contract entered into prior to the operative date of this ordinance.
4. If the possession of, or the exercise of any right or power over, the tangible personal property arises under a lease which is a continuing purchase of such property for any period of time for which the lessee is
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obligated to lease the property for an amount fixed by a lease prior to the operative date of this ordinance.
5. For the purposes of subparagraphs (C)(3) and (C)(4) of this ordinance, above, storage, use, or other consumption, or possession of, or exercise of any right or power over, tangible personal property shall be deemed not to be obligated pursuant to a contract or lease for any period of time for which any party to the contract or lease has the unconditional right to terminate the contract or lease upon notice, whether or not such right is exercised.
6. Except as provided in subparagraph (C)(7), below, a retailer engaged in business in the City shall not be required to collect use tax from the purchaser of tangible personal property, unless the retailer ships or delivers the property into the City or participates within the City in making the sale of the property, including, but not limited to, soliciting or receiving the order, either directly or indirectly, at a place of business of the retailer in the City or through any representative, agent, canvasser, solicitor, subsidiary, or person in the City under the authority of the retailer.
7. "A retailer engaged in business in the City" shall also include any retailer of any of the following: vehicles subject to registration pursuant to Chapter 1 (commencing with Section 4000) of Division 3 of the Vehicle Code, aircraft licensed in compliance with Section 21411 of the Public Utilities Code, or undocumented vessels registered under Division 3.5 (commencing with Section 9840) of the Vehicle Code. That retailer shall be required to collect use tax from any purchaser who registers or licenses the vehicle, vessel, or aircraft at an address in the City.
D. Any person subject to use tax under this ordinance may credit against that tax any transactions tax or reimbursement for transactions tax paid to a district imposing, or retailer liable for a transactions tax pursuant to Part 1.6 of Division 2 of the Revenue and Taxation Code with respect to the sale to the person of the property the storage, use or other consumption of which is subject to the use tax.
SECTION 8. Severability. If any provision of this Ordinance or the application thereof to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the Ordinance and the application of such provision to other persons or circumstances shall not be affected thereby.
SECTION 9. Effective Date.
A. This Ordinance relates to an increase to the City’s transactions (sales) and use tax rate from three-quarters of a percent (3/4%) to one percent (1%). The foregoing notwithstanding, this Ordinance may only become operative if approved by a simple majority of votes cast by Bell Gardens voters at a June 2, 2026 Special Municipal meeting.
If approved by the voters, the transaction and use tax rate set forth under Chapter 3.22
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(Transactions and Use Tax) of the Bell Gardens Municipal Code will increase to one percent (1%). If the measure fails, this Ordinance shall be rendered inoperative and void, however, the defeat of the Measure shall not operate to extinguish or amend the existing transaction and use tax as presently constituted and last approved by Bell Gardens voters in 2020.
B. The increased tax rate established under this Ordinance shall not go into effect until October 1, 2026. Upon October 1, 2026, the current text of Chapter 3.22 (Transactions and Use Tax) of the Bell Gardens Municipal Code shall be amended and updated as referenced above in italics under Section 2-7 of this Ordinance. By passage of the Measure and approval of this Ordinance, the City may make, without additional voter approval, clerical, formatting or numbering corrections to the aforementioned text to ensure conformity with the requirements of the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration and to ensure internal consistency within the Bell Gardens Municipal Code, provided that no such corrections may result in an increase to the transactions and use tax rate above the voter-approved rate of one percent (1%).
SECTION 10. CEQA. This Ordinance and the contemplated levy of the transactions and use tax referenced herein is of the California Public Resources Code (“CEQA”) because it will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment, nor does it involve any commitment to any specific project which may result in a potentially significant physical impact on the environment.
SECTION 11. Duration Unchanged. The transactions and use tax increased under this Ordinance shall continue to be of an indefinite term unless and until repealed by Bell Gardens voters.
SECTION 12. Certification Of Adoption. The City Clerk shall certify the adoption of this Ordinance and shall cause the same to be published pursuant to California Government Code Section 36933, following approval by Bell Gardens voters at the City’s special election held of June 2, 2026.
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED this day of , 2026.
THE CITY OF BELL GARDENS
Miguel De La Rosa, Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM: ATTEST:
________________________________ _______________________________ Stephanie Vasquez Daisy Gomez
City Attorney City Clerk
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I, ______________, City Clerk of the City of Bell Gardens, do hereby certify that the above and foregoing Ordinance No. _________ was passed, approved, and adopted by the City Council of the City of Bell Gardens, signed by the Mayor and attested by the City Clerk at a meeting of said City Council of the City of Bell Gardens held on this ______ day of ___________ 2026, and that said Ordinance was adopted by the following votes to wit:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
_______________________________
Daisy Gomez
City Clerk, City of Bell Gardens
CITY OF BELL GARDENS
OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TO:Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
FROM:Michael B. O’Kelly, City Manager
BY: Daisy Gomez, City Clerk
SUBJECT:General Motion To Waive Full Reading And Approve Ordinances By Title Only Pursuant To California Government Code Section 36934 MEETING DATE:February 23, 2026
RECOMMENDATION:
It is staff's recommendation that the City Council approve a general motion to waive full reading and approve Ordinances by title only pursuant to California Government Code Section 36934.
BACKGROUND / DISCUSSION:
In order to expedite the conduct of business at Council meetings, California State Law (California Government Code Section 36934) allows Ordinances to be read by title if a majority of the Council supports the motion waiving the full reading. Most California cities adopt a standard motion at the beginning of each meeting in order to effectuate this waiver.
Since most of the Ordinances introduced and adopted consist of multiple pages of technical language, reading by title only allows the Council to eliminate the communication of redundant information and attend to other matters during the meetings. Otherwise, the entire Ordinance language will have to be read in full.
CONCLUSION:
Allowing ordinances to be read by title only, according to California State Law, will expedite the conduct of business at Council Meetings.
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
OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TO:Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
FROM:Michael B. O’Kelly, City Manager
BY: Daisy Gomez, City Clerk
SUBJECT:Minutes for the February 9, 2026, Closed Session and City Council/Successor Agency Joint Meetings
MEETING DATE:February 23, 2026
RECOMMENDATION:
It is the staff’s recommendation that the City Council approve the minutes of the February 9, 2026, Closed Session and City Council/Successor Agency Joint Meetings.
BACKGROUND / DISCUSSION:
Every Closed Session and City Council/Successor Agency Joint Meetings the City Clerk documents the actions made by the Agency Members/City Council.
CONCLUSION:
If approved, the minutes of the City Council/Successor Agency Joint Meeting will be archived in the City Clerk's Office.
FISCAL IMPACT:
No fiscal impact.
ELECTRONICALLY APPROVED BY:
Michael B. O'Kelly, City Manager
Stephanie Vasquez, City Attorney
Manuel Carrillo, Director of Finance and Administration Services
CITY OF BELL GARDENS
MINUTES
City Council Closed Session
Monday, February 9, 2026, 5:00 PM
LOCATION: CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS, 7100 GARFIELD AVENUE, BELL GARDENS, CA 90201 The meeting will be held at Bell Gardens City Hall in the Council Chambers. The public may attend the meeting in person or virtually as instructed below. You may view the meeting live on the City's website at https://www.bellgardens.org/i-want-to/watch-city-council-meetings .
ACCESSIBILITY: If requested, the agenda and backup materials will be made available in appropriate alternative formats to persons with a disability, as required by Section 202 of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. Sec. 12132), and the federal rules and regulations adopted in implementation thereof. Any person who requires a disability-related modification or accommodation, in order to observe and/or offer public participation may request such reasonable modification, accommodation, aid, or service by contacting the City Clerk's office by telephone at 562-806-7704 or via email to [email protected] no later than 72-hours before the scheduled meeting.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION: The members of the public may address the City Council on any item listed on the agenda. Public participation are limited to three (3) minutes. Public participation can be made by any of the following ways:
IN-PERSON: Members of the public can provide in-person participation at the podium in the Council Chamber. The Council Chambers will have seating available for members of the public to attend the meeting in person, subject to capacity limits. Public participation are limited to (3) minutes per speaker, unless different time is announced by the presiding chair. Speakers who wish to address the City Council should do so by submitting a "Public Comment Card" by 5:00 pm.
BY TELEPHONE: Phone Number: (669)900-9128 Webinar ID: 813 3236 4343# Passcode: 2021# To address the City Council press *9 to raise your hand then *6 to unmute yourself when instructed.
VIRTUALLY LIVE: Members of the public may participate via Zoom by https://zoom.us/join and entering the Zoom Meeting ID: 813 3236 4343 Passcode: 2021
Public participation may also be made via the Zoom app by using the "Raise Hand" feature when it is your turn to speak the host will unmute you. Participation will not be accepted in the QandA Chat function of the zoom app.
WRITTEN COMMENTS: Public participation may be emailed to [email protected] or mailed to: City Clerk's Office, 7100 Garfield Ave., Bell Gardens, CA 90201. To ensure distribution to the members of the City Council prior to consideration of the agenda, please submit comments no later than one (1) hour prior to the meeting. Those comments, as well as any comments received after, will be distributed to the members of the City Council and will be part of the official public record of this meeting.
For more information, you may contact the City Clerk's office during regular business hours 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday at (562) 806-7704.
1. CALL TO ORDER
The Council Members of the City of Bell Gardens City Council held a regular meeting on February 9, 2026, in the Council Chambers, 7100 Garfield Avenue, Bell Gardens, CA with Mayor Miguel De La Rosa presiding at 5:09 p.m.
2. ROLL CALL OF CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS / SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION MEMBERS
Marco Barcena, Councilmember
Jorgel Chavez, Councilmember
Dr. Francis De Leon Sanchez, Councilwoman
Isabel Guillen, Mayor Pro Tem
Miguel De La Rosa, Mayor
3. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION ON AGENDA ITEMS ONLY
During this time, the members of the public may address the City Council regarding any items listed on the agenda. Public participation are limited
to 3 minutes per person.
City Clerk Daisy Gomez announced that there were no written comments, and no public comments were provided.
4. CLOSED SESSION ITEMS
City Attorney Stephanie Vasquez announced the Closed Session items. The City Council recessed into closed session at 5:10 p.m. to discuss the items as listed on the agenda.
4.1 Conference with Real Property Negotiators Pursuant to Gov. Code. Section 54956.8:
Properties: 5636 Shull Street Bell Gardens, CA 90201 (APN:
6227-034-900, 901, 902, 903, 904, 905 & 906)
City Negotiators: Michael B. O’Kelly (Executive Director), Stephanie Vasquez (Successor Agency Counsel), Manuel
Acosta (Community Development Director)
Negotiating Parties: WPH Holdings, LLC
Under Negotiation: Terms of Purchase and Sale Agreement
4.2 Closed Session Pursuant to Government Code Section
54957.6 -Conference with Labor Negotiators
City Designated Representatives: Michael B. O’Kelly, City Manager and Manuel Carrillo, Director of Finance.
City Organization:
Employee
Organizations:
City Employees Association (CEA)
Public Works Employees Association
(PWEA)
Public Works Supervisors Association
(PWSA)
Police Officers Association (POA)
Police Management Association
(PMA)
Non-Represented
5. CLOSED SESSION REPORT
The City Council reconvened to open session at 6:05 p.m., City Attorney Stephanie Vasquez announced that Item No. 4.1 carried a unanimous 5 - 0 vote, to direct the City Manager to issue a notice of termination of the Purchase and Sale Agreement. Item No. 4.2 was discussed with no reportable action.
6. ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Miguel De La Rosa adjourned the meeting at 6:06 p.m.
Daisy Gomez, City Clerk
CITY OF BELL GARDENS
MINUTES
City Council / Successor Agency to the Community Development Commission Joint Meeting
Monday, February 9, 2026, 6:00 PM
LOCATION: CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS, 7100 GARFIELD AVENUE, BELL GARDENS, CA 90201 The meeting will be held at Bell Gardens City Hall in the Council Chambers. The public may attend the meeting in person or virtually as instructed below. You may view the meeting live on the City's website at https://www.bellgardens.org/i-want-to/watch-city-council-meetings .
ACCESSIBILITY: If requested, the agenda and backup materials will be made available in appropriate alternative formats to persons with a disability, as required by Section 202 of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. Sec. 12132), and the federal rules and regulations adopted in implementation thereof. Any person who requires a disability-related modification or accommodation, in order to observe and/or offer public participation may request such reasonable modification, accommodation, aid, or service by contacting the City Clerk's office by telephone at 562-806-7704 or via email to [email protected] no later than 72-hours before the scheduled meeting.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION: The members of the public may address the City Council on any item listed on the agenda. Public participation are limited to three (3) minutes. Public participation for non-agenda items will be limited to a total of 30 minutes. Public participation can be made by any of the following ways:
IN-PERSON: Members of the public can provide in-person participation at the podium in the Council Chamber. The Council Chambers will have seating available for members of the public to attend the meeting in person, subject to capacity limits. Public participation are limited to (3) minutes per speaker, unless different time is announced by the presiding chair. Speakers who
wish to address the City Council should do so by submitting a "Public Comment Card" by 5:00 pm.
BY TELEPHONE: Phone Number: (669)900-9128 Webinar ID: 813 3236 4343# Passcode: 2021# To address the City Council press *9 to raise your hand then *6 to unmute yourself when instructed.
VIRTUALLY LIVE: Members of the public may participate via Zoom by https://zoom.us/join and entering the Zoom Meeting ID: 813 3236 4343 Passcode: 2021
Public participation may also be made via the Zoom app by using the "Raise Hand" feature when it is your turn to speak the host will unmute you. Participation will not be accepted in the QandA Chat function of the zoom app.
WRITTEN COMMENTS: Public participation may be emailed to [email protected] or mailed to: City Clerk's Office, 7100 Garfield Ave., Bell Gardens, CA 90201. To ensure distribution to the members of the City Council prior to consideration of the agenda, please submit comments no later than one (1) hour prior to the meeting. Those comments, as well as any comments received after, will be distributed to the members of the City Council and will be part of the official public record of this meeting.
For more information, you may contact the City Clerk's office during regular business hours 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday at (562) 806-7704.
1. CALL TO ORDER
The Council Members of the City of Bell Gardens City Council/Successor Agency held a Joint Regular meeting on February 9, 2026, in the Council Chambers, 7100 Garfield Avenue, Bell Gardens, CA with Mayor Miguel De La Rosa presiding. Mayor Miguel De La Rosa called the joint meeting to order at 6:06 p.m.
2. INVOCATION
The invocation was given by Minister Daniel Anguiano.
3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Chief Paul Camacho.
4. ROLL CALL OF CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS / SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION MEMBERS
Marco Barcena, Councilmember / Agency Member
Jorgel Chavez, Councilmember / Agency Member
Dr. Francis De Leon Sanchez, Councilwoman / Agency Member Isabel Guillen, Mayor Pro Tem / Vice Chair
Miguel De La Rosa, Mayor / Chair
5. PRESENTATION
5.1 Certificate of Recognition -
Mayor Miguel De La Rosa read the certificate of recognition and presented it to Lorraine Wildes.
5.2 Certificate of Recognition - Bell Gardens Elementary Teacher Leslie Hiatt
Mayor Miguel De La Rosa read the certificate of recognition and presented it to Leslie Hiatt.
5.3 Certificate of Recognition - Cutting and Tailoring Sewing Class Instructor, Ana Elena Sifuentes
Mayor Miguel De La Rosa read the certificate of recognition and presented it to Ana Elena Sifuentes.
5.4 Primestore Shopping Centers Presentation
This item was tabled to a future meeting.
5.5 League of California Cities Legislative Update Presentation Nicholas Cabeza, Regional Public Affairs Manager, provided a presentation.
5.6 Los Angeles County Fire Department Update
Paul Stump, Assistant Fire Chief, provided a presentation.
6. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS UNDER THE SUBJECT
MATTER JURISDICTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL / SUCCESSOR AGENCY During this time, the members of the public may address the City Council / Successor Agency regarding any items within the subject matter jurisdiction of the City Council / Successor Agency. Public participation are limited to 3 minutes per person subject to an overall 30-minute period for non-agenda items. Government Code Section 54590 prohibits the City Council / Successor Agency from taking action or engaging in discussion on a specific item unless it appears on the agenda.
City Clerk Daisy Gomez announced that there was no written comment received.
Edwin Gonzalez spoke regarding the recent explosion that took place in the City.
7. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION ON AGENDA ITEMS ONLY
During this time, the members of the public may address the City Council / Agency Members regarding any items listed on the agenda. Public participation are limited to 3 minutes per person.
City Clerk Daisy Gomez announced that there was no written comment received.
Richard Jarman, Pastor of TouchPoint Church, spoke in opposition to Item No. 11.2.
8. COMMITTEE UPDATES
Councilwoman Dr. Francis De Leon Sanchez provided an update on the California Cities for Self-Reliance Joint Powers Authority.
9. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
City Manager Michael B. O'Kelly provided a brief report.
10. CONSENT CALENDAR
All matters listed under the Consent Calendar are considered to be routine and can be acted on by one roll call vote. There will be no separate discussion of these items unless members of the City Council / Successor Agency request specific items to be removed from the Consent Calendar for separate action. Items called for separate discussion will be heard as the next order of business.
A motion was made by Councilwoman Dr. Francis De Leon Sanchez, seconded by Councilmember Jorgel Chavez to approve Consent Calendar Item Nos. 10.1 - 10.6.
The motion carried 5 - 0 with the following vote:
Moved by: Dr. Francis De Leon Sanchez
Seconded by: Jorgel Chavez
Yes Marco Barcena, Jorgel Chavez, Miguel De La
Rosa, Dr. Francis De Leon Sanchez, and Isabel
Guillen
Carried 5-0
10.1 General Motion to Waive Full Reading and Approve
Ordinances by Title Only Pursuant to California Government Code Section 36934 with Support from the Majority of the Legislative Body.
RECOMMENDATION: To approve ordinances by title only.
FISCAL IMPACT: No fiscal impact.
10.2 Approval Minutes of City Council/Successor Agency - Joint Meeting
RECOMMENDATION: It is staff's recommendation that the
City Council approve the minutes of the January 26, 2026, City Council/Successor Agency Joint Meeting.
CONCLUSION: If approved, the minutes of the City
Council/Successor Agency Joint Meeting will be archived in the City Clerk’s Office.
FISCAL IMPACT: None
ATTACHMENTS:
Exhibit 1 - City Council / Successor Agency to the Community Development Commission Joint Meeting - Jan 26 2026 -
Minutes - Html
10.3 Warrant Register and Wire Transfer
RECOMMENDATION: It is staff's recommendation that the
City Council receive and file the warrant registers, wire transfers, and net payrolls dated 12/24/25, 01/08/2026, 01/13/2026 and 01/20/2026.
ATTACHMENTS:
Exhibit 1 - Warrant Registers
10.4 Consideration of a Resolution Approving a First Amendment to Professional Services Agreement by and between the City of Bell Gardens and MNS Engineers, Inc. for CDBG/PLHA
Administration Services
RECOMMENDATION: It is staff’s recommendation that the
City Council adopt the attached Resolution approving a First Amendment to the Professional Services Agreement between the City of Bell Gardens and MNS Engineers, Inc. for the approval of CDBG/PLHA Administration Services.
ATTACHMENTS :
Exhibit 1 – Resolution No. 2026-17
Exhibit 2 – First Amendment to Professional Services
Agreement
10.5 Consideration of a Resolution Approving a Third Amendment to the Existing Agreement for City Attorney Services with Olivarez Madruga Law Organization, LLP
RECOMMENDATION: It is staff’s recommendation that the
City Council adopt the attached Resolution authorizing a Third Amendment to the existing agreement for City Attorney Services with Olivarez Madruga Law Organization, LLP.
ATTACHMENTS:
Exhibit 1 - Resolution No. 2026-18
Exhibit 2 – Third Amendment to OMLO Agreement
10.6 Approval of Plans and Specifications for the Police Department Fire Suppression System Improvements and
Consideration of a Resolution Approving a Cooperative
Agreement with Kimble Fire Protection, a Subsidiary of APi National Service Group, Inc. for the Police Department Fire Suppression System Improvements
RECOMMENDATION: It is staff’s recommendation that the
City Council:
1. Approve the plans and specifications for the Police
Department Fire Alarm System Improvements;
2. Adopt the attached Resolution approving a
Cooperative Agreement with Kimble Fire Protection, a
subsidiary of APi National Service Group, Inc., for the Police Department fire suppression system
improvements for a total amount not to exceed
$262,059.37, in a form approved by the City Attorney;
3. Authorize the City Manager to execute the Cooperative Agreement and approve change orders that may be
necessary during construction to cover any unforeseen
condition in an amount not to exceed 10% of the
agreement amount; and
4. Appropriate $288,265.35 in General Funds to complete the improvements.
ATTACHMENTS:
Exhibit 1 - Resolution 2026-19
Exhibit 2 - Cooperative Agreement
11. DISCUSSION
11.1 Local Commission
RECOMMENDATION: It is staff's recommendation that the
City Council review the Commissions Appointments List and by motion, remove commissioners and/or make
appointments to the posted vacancies.
ATTACHMENTS: Exhibit - Notice of Vacancies
There was no action taken.
11.2 Consideration of Option of One-Year Extension of Agreement with Flock Group, Inc.
RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends that the City Council:
1. Affirm a one (1)-year extension of the current
Agreement under the existing terms and conditions,
maintaining the current limited-access / sharing
settings; or
2. Affirm a one (1)-year extension of the current
Agreement under the existing terms and conditions,
reinstating full-access / sharing settings; or
3. Direct the City Manager to provide notice to terminate the Agreement in accordance with the termination
provisions of the Agreement.
ATTACHMENTS:
Exhibit 1 - Agreement
John Acosta, Police Department Lieutenant, provided a
presentation.
A motion was made by Mayor Miguel De La Rosa, seconded by Councilwoman Dr. Francis De Leon Sanchez to affirm a one (1)- year extension of the current Agreement under the existing terms and conditions, maintaining the current limited-access / sharing settings staff's recommendation, with a monthly internal auditing.
A substitute motion was made by Councilmember Marco
Barcena, died to lack of a second, to provide notice to terminate the Agreement in accordance with the termination provisions of the Agreement.
The motion carried 4 - 1 with the following vote:
Moved by: Miguel De La Rosa
Seconded by: Dr. Francis De Leon Sanchez
Yes Jorgel Chavez, Miguel De La Rosa, Dr. Francis
De Leon Sanchez, and Isabel Guillen
No Marco Barcena
Carried 4-1
Mayor Miguel De La Rosa recessed the meeting at 8:18 p.m. and reconvened at 8:35 p.m.
11.3 Proposed 2026 State and Federal Legislative Platform RECOMMENDATION: It is staff's recommendation that the
City Council provide direction and adopt the 2026 Proposed State and Federal Legislative Platform (“Platform”).
ATTACHMENTS:
Exhibit 1 - 2026 Legislative Platform
Michael B. O'Kelly, City Manager, provided a presentation.
A motion was made by Councilmember Marco Barcena,
seconded by Councilmember Jorgel Chavez to adopt the 2026 proposed State and Federal Legislative Platform.
The motion carried 5 - 0 with the following vote:
Moved by: Marco Barcena
Seconded by: Jorgel Chavez
Yes Marco Barcena, Jorgel Chavez, Miguel De La
Rosa, Dr. Francis De Leon Sanchez, and Isabel
Guillen
Carried 5-0
11.4 Discussion of Holiday Banner Pole Alternatives on Florence Avenue and Eastern Avenue
RECOMMENDATION:
It is staff’s recommendation that the City Council:
1. Provide direction to staff regarding the location of holiday banner pole alternatives on Florence Avenue
and Eastern Avenue; or
2. Receive and file the report.
ATTACHMENTS: None.
Bernardo Iniguez, Director of Public Works/Facilities, provided a presentation.
A motion was made by Councilmember Jorgel Chavez,
seconded by Councilwoman Dr. Francis De Leon Sanchez to use the pole located on Florence Avenue.
The motion carried 5 - 0 with the following vote:
Moved by: Jorgel Chavez
Seconded by: Dr. Francis De Leon Sanchez
Yes Marco Barcena, Jorgel Chavez, Miguel De La
Rosa, Dr. Francis De Leon Sanchez, and Isabel
Guillen
Carried 5-0
12. CITY COUNCIL / SUCCESSOR AGENCY MEMBER COMMENTS
Members of the Council and Successor Agency made community announcements and comments.
13. ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Miguel De La Rosa adjourned the meeting with a moment of silence in memory of Carlos Hernandez and Christopher Benitez at 9:05 p.m.
Daisy Gomez, City Clerk
CITY OF BELL GARDENS
OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TO:Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
FROM: Michael B. O’Kelly, City Manager
BY:Manuel Carrillo, Director of Finance & Administrative Services SUBJECT:Warrant Register and Wire Transfer
MEETING DATE:February 23, 2026
RECOMMENDATION: It is staff's recommendation that the City Council receive and file the warrant registers, wire transfers, and net payrolls dated 01/20/26, 01/22/2026, 01/27/2026 and 02/03/2026.
BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION:
The attached warrant registers, wire transfers, and net payrolls are for 01/20/26, 01/22/2026, 01/27/2026 and 02/03/2026.
CONCLUSION:
If the recommendation to the City Council is approved, then the warrant registers, wire transfers, and net payrolls dated for 01/20/26, 01/22/2026, 01/27/2026 and 02/03/2026.
FISCAL IMPACT:
APPROVED ELECTRONICALLY BY:
Michael B. O'Kelly, City Manager
Stephanie Vasquez, City Attorney
Wire Transfer 01/20/2026 3074 $3,250.00
Wire Transfer 01/22/2026 3075 -3077 & 3085 $334,528.91 Warrant Register 01/27/2026 198892 – 198970 $281,774.07 Total Bank $619,552.98
Net Payroll Transfer 01/22/2026 $649,175.16
Total Voucher $1,268,728.14
Warrant Register 02/03/2026 198971 – 199022 $103,488.53 Total Voucher $103,488.53
Grand Total
Vouchers
$1,372,216.67
Manuel Carrillo, Director of Finance and Administrative Services
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1 CITY OF BELL GARDENS
OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TO:Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
FROM:Michael O’Kelly, City Manager
BY:Manuel Carrillo, Director of Finance and Administrative Services
SUBJECT: January 2026 Treasurer’s Report
MEETING DATE:February 23, 2026
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the City Council receive, approve, and file the January 2026 Treasurer’s Report
BACKGROUND / DISCUSSION:
The Treasurer’s Report is a list of cash and investments held by the City as of January 31, 2026. Monthly reporting includes cash balances by fund and reconciled bank balances provided by Finance and Administrative Services.
CONCLUSION:
The January 31, 2026, Treasurer’s Report has been presented to the City Council with a recommendation to receive, approve and file.
FISCAL IMPACT:
No fiscal impact.
APPROVALS:
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:Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
FROM:Michael B. O’Kelly, City Manager
BY:Manuel Acosta, Director of Community Development
SUBJECT:Consideration of a Resolution Approving a First Amendment to Professional Services Agreement by and between City of Bell Gardens and BPR Consulting Group, LLC to Provide As-Needed Building Inspection and Plan Check Services
MEETING DATE:February 23, 2026
RECOMMENDATION:
It is staff’s recommendation that the City Council adopt the attached Resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute a First Amendment to a Professional Services Agreement by and between the City of Bell Gardens and BPR Consulting Group, LLC., for as-needed building inspection and plan check services.
BACKGROUND / DISCUSSION:
The City’s Building and Safety Division, within the Community Development Department, has historically utilized private consulting firms to provide as-needed building inspection and plan check services. Building inspection services are typically required when there is a vacant position, when in-house inspectors are on leave, or when special projects require additional staffing.
Plan check services, however, are regularly performed by the City’s consultants and are funded through plan check fees collected by the City.
On February 26, 2024, the City Council approved a Professional Services Agreement with BPR Consulting Group, LLC (BPR) for as-needed building inspection and plan check services in an annual not-to-exceed amount of $300,000 for a three (3) year term beginning March 1, 2024.
Under the agreement:
•BPR receives fifty-nine percent (59%) of total permit revenues collected for plan check and permit fees.
•Additional inspection services and plan check reviews beyond the standard three (3) review cycles are billed at an hourly rate.
•The agreement includes an annual not-to-exceed amount of $300,000.
Since April 2024, permit volume and plan check revenues have significantly exceeded initial projections. Total permit revenue has surpassed $500,000 during this period.
At 59% of the revenue collected, payments to BPR would exceed $295,000, before accounting for additional hourly inspection and extended plan check services. As a result, total compensation to BPR is projected to exceed the current annual not-to-exceed amount of $300,000.
The increase in revenue is primarily attributable to:
•Several large-scale development projects
•A higher volume of permits being issued than originally projected In addition, staff is requesting BPR to provide expanded inspection coverage and limited plan check services to offset the vacancy of the Building Services Supervisor position.
These supplemental services are billed at hourly rates.
Staff is requesting City Council authorization to amend the existing agreement as follows:
1. Increase the annual not-to-exceed amount to $500,000 for Year Two, with the understanding that the majority of these costs will be funded through building permit and plan check fee revenues.
2. Beginning Year Three, and for the remainder of the term:
•Increase the annual revenue-sharing (59%) budget not to exceed amount to $500,000 and authorize the City Manager to increase the revenue not to exceed amount, as may be needed.
•Establish a separate annual not-to-exceed amount of $150,000 for hourly professional inspection and plan check services.
Maintaining the Building Services Supervisor position vacant, while utilizing part-time consultant services as needed, is anticipated to generate General Fund savings while maintaining service levels.
CONCLUSION:
Given the increase in building permit and plan check revenue, along with projected savings from maintaining the Building Services Supervisor vacancy, staff recommends that the City Council approve a First Amendment to the Professional Services Agreement between the City of Bell Gardens and BPR Consulting Group, LLC to increase the Professional Services Agreement compensation as outlined above.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Consulting services for plan check and permit processing are funded through a percentage of building fees collected. Additional inspection and extended plan check services are billed at hourly rates.
If approved:
•The increased compensation authority of $500,000 for Year Two, will be funded through building fee revenues and salary savings from the vacant Building Services Supervisor position.
•For Year Three and for the remainder of the term, the annual revenue-sharing compensation will increase to $500,000, with an additional annual not-to-exceed amount of $150,000 for as-needed hourly services.
Funds for these services have been included in the FY 2025–2026 Building and Safety Division budget. In future fiscal years, staff will present separate budget allocations for revenue-sharing services and hourly consultant services.
APPROVALS:
Michael B. O'Kelly, City Manager
Stephanie Vasquez, City Attorney
Manuel Carrillo, Director of Finance and Administrative Services
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-21
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BELL
GARDENS, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING A FIRST AMENDMENT TO
THE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT BY AND BETWEEN
THE CITY OF BELL GARDENS AND BPR CONSULTING GROUP, LLC
FOR AS-NEEDED BUILDING INSPECTION AND PLAN CHECK
SERVICES
WHEREAS, on February 26, 2024, the City of Bell Gardens (“City”) and BPR Consulting Group, LLC (“BPR”) executed and entered into a Professional Services Agreement for BPR to provide as-needed building inspection and plan check services (hereinafter “Master Agreement”); and
WHEREAS, due to an increased amount for services for permits and plan check services, the compensation not-to-exceed amounts require amendment for Year Two, Year Three, and the remainder of the term of the Professional Services Agreement; and
WHEREAS, the City and BPR now wish to modify the Professional Services Agreement to increase the Year Two Annual Not-to-Exceed Sum from $300,000 by $200,000 for a new Year Two Annual Not-to-Exceed Sum of $500,000; and
WHEREAS, commencing as of Year Three, and for the remainder of the term, the City and BPR wish to amend the Annual Not-Exceed Sum to distinguish professional inspection and plan check services from the revenue-sharing plan check and permit fees; and
WHEREAS, commencing as of Year Three, and for the remainder of the term, the professional inspection and plan check services shall have an Annual Not-to-Exceed Sum of $150,000; and
WHEREAS, commencing as of Year Three, and for the remainder of the term, the revenue-sharing plan check and permit fees shall have an Annual Not-to-Exceed Sum of $500,000, with additional authority provided to the City Manager to increase the Annual Not-to-Exceed Sum as may be needed for additional revenue sharing; and
WHEREAS, the City now desires to enter into a First Amendment to the Professional Services Agreement with BPR.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Bell Gardens as follows:
SECTION 1. The City Council, after consideration of the staff report and discussion, hereby find that the above recitals are true and correct and incorporate them herein.
SECTION 2. Based upon the above recitals, the staff report accompanying this Resolution, and such other oral and written evidence, the Bell Gardens City Council hereby approves a First Amendment to the Professional Services Agreement with BPR, which is attached to the staff report as Exhibit 2.
Resolution 2026-21
2 of 3
SECTION 3. The City Council further authorizes and directs the City Manager to execute the First Amendment and take all actions necessary to appropriate, implement and effectuate the intent of the City Council as set forth in this Resolution.
SECTION 4. The City Clerk shall attest and certify to the passage and adoption of this Resolution and enter it into the book of original resolutions, and it shall become effective immediately upon its approval.
PASSED, APPROVED, and ADOPTED this 23rd day of February, 2026.
THE CITY OF BELL GARDENS
Miguel De La Rosa, Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM: ATTEST:
Stephanie Vasquez Daisy Gomez
City Attorney City Clerk
Resolution 2026-21
3 of 3
I, ____________________, City Clerk of the City of Bell Gardens, hereby CERTIFY that City Council Resolution No. ___________was adopted by the Bell Gardens City Council at a regular meeting of the City Council held on ___________________, and was approved and passed by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
Daisy Gomez
City Clerk
1 2026
FIRST AMENDMENT TO PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT
(Engagement: Ongoing As-Needed Building Inspection/Plan Check Services) (Parties: BPR Consulting Group, LLC and City of Bell Gardens)
THIS FIRST AMENDMENT (hereinafter, “First Amendment”) to that certain agreement entitled “2024 Professional Services Agreement” and dated February 26, 2024 (hereinafter, the “Master Agreement”), is hereby made and entered into this ____ day of ____________, 2026 (hereinafter, “Effective Date”), by and between the CITY OF BELL GARDENS, a municipal corporation (hereinafter, “City”) and BPR CONSULTING GROUP, LLC (hereinafter, “Consultant”). For purposes of this First Amendment, the capitalized term “Parties” shall be a collective reference to both City and Consultant. The capitalized term “Party” may refer to either City or Consultant, interchangeably as appropriate.
RECITALS
This First Amendment is made and entered into with respect to the following facts:
WHEREAS, on February 26, 2024, the Parties executed and entered into the Master Agreement for as-needed building inspection and plan check services; and
WHEREAS, the Master Agreement is attached and incorporated hereto as Exhibit “A”; and
WHEREAS, under the terms of the Master Agreement, the City agreed to pay Consultant an Annual Not-To-Exceed Sum of Three Hundred Thousand Dollars ($300,000) to provide as-needed building inspection and plan check services; and
WHEREAS, due to an increased amount for services for permits and plan check services, the compensation not-to-exceed amounts require amendment for Year Two, Year Three, and the remainder of the term of the Professional Services Agreement; and
WHEREAS, the Parties now wish to modify the Master Agreement to increase the Year Two Annual Not-to-Exceed Sum from THREE HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLARS ($300,000) by TWO HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLARS ($200,000) for a new Year Two Annual Not-to-Exceed Sum of FIVE HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLARS ($500,000); and
WHEREAS, commencing as of Year Three, and for the remainder of the Term, the Parties wish to amend the Annual Not-Exceed Sum to distinguish professional inspection and plan check services from the revenue-sharing plan check and permit fees; and
WHEREAS, commencing as of Year Three, and for the remainder of the Term, the professional inspection and plan check services shall have an Annual Not-to-Exceed Sum of ONE HUNDRED FIFTY THOUSAND DOLLARS ($150,000); and
WHEREAS, commencing as of Year Three, and for the remainder of the Term, the revenue-sharing plan check and permit fees shall have an Annual Not-to-Exceed Sum of FIVE HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLARS ($500,000).
2 NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual agreements contained herein, and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which is hereby acknowledged, and intending to be legally bound hereby, the Parties agree as follows:
SECTION 1. Section 1.4 (COMPENSATION) of the Master Agreement is hereby amended to increase the Year Two Annual Not-to-Exceed Sum of THREE HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLARS ($300,000) by TWO HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLARS ($200,000) for a new Year Two Annual Not-to-Exceed Sum of FIVE HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLARS ($500,000). Commencing as of Year Three, and for the remainder of the Term, the Annual Not-Exceed Sum shall distinguish professional inspection and plan check services from the revenue-sharing plan check and permit fees.
Commencing as of Year Three, and for the remainder of the Term, the professional inspection and plan check services shall have an Annual Not-to-Exceed Sum of ONE HUNDRED FIFTY THOUSAND DOLLARS ($150,000) (hereinafter, “Annual Professional Services Not-to-Exceed Sum”). Commencing as of Year Three, and for the remainder of the Term, the revenue-sharing plan check and permit fees shall have an Annual Not -to- Exceed Sum of Five Hundred Thousand Dollars ($500,000), (hereinafter, “Annual Profit Sharing Not-to-Exceed Sum”). As authorized by the City Council at its Regular Meeting of February 23, 2026, and subject to any applicable restrictions set forth under the Bell Gardens Municipal Code as the same may be amended from time to time or applicable State law, City, in its sole and absolute discretion, may authorize expenditures in excess of the Annual Profit Sharing Not-to-Exceed Sum without further City Council approval.
Any such additional expenditures must be approved by the City Manager in writing before they may be incurred.
SECTION 2. Except as otherwise set forth in this First Amendment, the Master Agreement, shall remain binding, controlling, and in full force and effect. Section 6.19 of the Master Agreement notwithstanding, this First Amendment, together with the Master Agreement, shall constitute the entire, complete, final, and exclusive expression of the Parties with respect to the matters addressed in both documents.
SECTION 3. The provisions of this First Amendment shall be deemed a part of the Master Agreement, and except, as otherwise provided under this First Amendment, the Master Agreement, and all provisions contained therein shall remain binding and enforceable. In the event of any conflict or inconsistency between the provisions of this First Amendment and the provisions of the Master Agreement, the provisions of this First Amendment shall control, but only in so far as such provisions conflict with the Master Agreement, and no further.
(SIGNATURES ON NEXT PAGE)
3 IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties hereto have caused this First Amendment to be executed on the day and year first appearing above.
CITY:
CITY OF BELL GARDENS:
By:_____________________________
Michael B. O’Kelly, City Manager
Date: __________
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
By:_____________________________
Stephanie Vasquez, City Attorney
Date: ______
CONSULTANT:
BPR CONSULTING GROUP, LLC:
By:_____________________________
Name:_________________________
Title: ___________________________
Date: ____
4 EXHIBIT “A”
MASTER AGREEMENT
CITY OF BELL GARDENS
OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TO:Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
FROM:Michael O’Kelly, City Manager
BY:Paul Camacho, Chief
Mitchell Carrillo, Lieutenant
SUBJECT: Consideration of a Resolution Approving a Contract Services Agreement with Black & White Emergency Vehicles, LLC for the Purchase and Outfitting of Emergency Equipment for a Previously Purchased Vehicle
MEETING DATE: February 23, 2026
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that the City Council adopt the attached Resolution approving a Contract Services Agreement with Black & White Emergency Vehicles, LLC for the purchase and installation of emergency equipment in an amount not to exceed $28,002.82.
BACKGROUND / DISCUSSION:
The State of California Department of Highway Patrol provides opportunities for local law enforcement agencies to apply for grant funding through its Cannabis Tax Fund Grant Program (CTFG). This grant program provides annual funding for the education, prevention, and enforcement of laws related to driving under the influence of alcohol and other drugs, including cannabis and cannabis products.
On July 28, 2025, the City of Bell Gardens was awarded $150,915.54 from the FY2025- 26 Cannabis Tax Fund Grant Program (Grant No. 23369), of which $89,237.27 was specifically allotted to purchase and outfit a 2026 Ford Police Interceptor Utility Vehicle (Resolution No. 2025-68).
On July 31, 2025, staff issued a Request For Quotation (RFQ) requesting that vendors submit quotes based on the grant specifications and those that meet the Police Department's needs. On September 8, 2025, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 2025-85, authorizing the purchase of a 2026 Ford Police Interceptor Utility Vehicle from Fairway Ford Sales, Inc. for $55,234.45. The police vehicle will need to be outfitted with emergency equipment, including a radio, emergency lights and sirens, light controls, a prisoner transport compartment, window barriers, a weapon rack/lock, computer mounts, and other storage equipment.
Pursuant to Bell Gardens Municipal Code Section ("BGMC") 3.04.100(A), the City's formal purchasing procedures may be dispensed when the City Council (for purchases of more than $10,000) finds that such supplies or equipment are unique because of their quality, durability, availability, or fitness for a particular use and are available only from one source, or, if available from more than one source, bidding is not likely to result in the lowest price.
Black & White Emergency Vehicles, LLC (Black & White) is the only single source vendor known where the entire vehicle can be outfitted with the emergency and computer equipment that the Bell Gardens Police Department utilizes. Additionally, Black & White is an authorized installer that meets Ford’s manufacturer warranty specifications for the required installation. Further, utilizing Black and White will allow the Police Department to avoid numerous individual installations from different vendors, which would ultimately result in a higher cost to the City.
Black and White, has previously outfitted the City’s emergency vehicles. Keeping emergency vehicles uniform and outfitted with the same equipment is crucial to be able to continue to provide the necessary services to the community.
Staff recommends that the City Council adopt the attached Resolution approving a Contract Services Agreement with Black & White, for the purchase and installation of emergency vehicle equipment for the new vehicle with a not to exceed amount of $28,002.82.
CONCLUSION:
Approval of the Contract Services Agreement for the purchase and installation of the emergency vehicle equipment will enable the Bell Gardens Police Department to outfit the new vehicle. This equipment is also mandated for emergency response vehicles by the State of California.
FISCAL IMPACT:
The proposed Contract Services Agreement is in the not-to-exceed amount of $28,002.82. The City will be reimbursed the entire amount from the State of California Highway Patrol FY2025-26 Cannabis Tax Fund Grant. Reimbursement will take place once the vehicle is completely outfitted and during the grant’s reimbursement period.
APPROVALS:
Michael B. O'Kelly, City Manager
Stephanie Vasquez, City Attorney
Manuel Carrillo, Director of Finance and Administrative Services
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-22
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BELL
GARDENS, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING A CONTRACT SERVICES
AGREEMENT WITH BLACK & WHITE EMERGENCY VEHICLES, LLC.,
FOR THE PURCHASE AND INSTALLATION OF EMERGENCY
EQUIPMENT FOR A PREVIOUSLY PURCHASED VEHICLE TO BE
USED BY THE POLICE DEPARTMENT
WHEREAS, on July 28, 2025, the City of Bell Gardens (“City”) was awarded One Hundred Fifty Thousand Nine Hundred Fifteen Dollars and Fifty-Four Cents ($150,915.54) from the FY 2025-2026 State of California Department of Highway Patrol Cannabis Tax Fund Grant Program (“CTFGP”) (Grant Number 23369), of which $89,237.27 was specifically allotted to purchase and outfit a 2026 Ford Police Interceptor Utility Vehicle for the use of traffic enforcement related to impaired driving; and
WHEREAS, on July 31, 2025, staff issued a Request For Quotation (RFQ) requesting that vendors submit quotes based on the grant specifications and those that meet the Police Department's needs for a 2026 Ford Police Interceptor Utility Vehicle; and
WHEREAS, on September 8, 2025, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 2025- 85, authorizing the purchase of a 2026 Ford Police Interceptor Utility Vehicle from Fairway Ford Sales, Inc. for $55,234.45; and
WHEREAS, the City has purchased and is in possession of the vehicle, which now requires outfitting of emergency equipment mandated by the State of California; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Bell Gardens Municipal Code Section ("BGMC")
3.04.100(A), the City's formal purchasing procedures may be dispensed when the City Council (for purchases of more than $10,000) finds that such supplies or equipment are unique because of their quality, durability, availability, or fitness for a particular use and are available only from one source, or, if available from more than one source, bidding is not likely to result in the lowest price; and
WHEREAS, Black & White Emergency Vehicles, LLC is the only known installation service company that can provide all the necessary emergency and electronics equipment that the Bell Gardens Police Department utilizes; and
WHEREAS, Black & White Emergency Vehicles, LLC is the only authorized installer that meets the Ford manufacturer's warranty specifications for these types of installations; and
WHEREAS, Black & White Emergency Vehicles, LLC, is much more efficient for the City, given that obtaining services from individual companies would likely result in a higher cost; and
Resolution No. 2026-22
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WHEREAS, after careful analysis, staff selected Black & White Emergency Vehicles, LLC for the purchase and installation of the emergency and communications equipment for the previously purchased vehicle.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Bell Gardens as follows:
SECTION 1. The City Council finds that the above recitals are true and correct and incorporate them herein.
SECTION 2. The City Council approves a Contract Services Agreement with Black & White Emergency Vehicles, LLC for the purchase and installation of emergency vehicle equipment, in a form approved by the City Attorney, in an amount not to exceed $28,002.82.
SECTION 3. The City Council further authorizes and directs the City Manager to execute the Contract Services Agreement between the City and Black & White Emergency Vehicles, LLC, consistent with this Resolution, along with any ancillary documents reasonably necessary to effectuate the intent of this Resolution.
SECTION 4. The City Clerk shall attest and certify to the passage and adoption of this Resolution and enter it into the book of original resolutions, and it shall become effective immediately upon its approval.
PASSED, APPROVED, and ADOPTED this 23rd day of February 2026.
THE CITY OF BELL GARDENS
________________________________
Miguel De La Rosa, Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM: ATTEST:
______________________________ _______________________________ Stephanie Vasquez Daisy Gomez
City Attorney City Clerk
Resolution No. 2026-22
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I, ____________________, City Clerk of the City of Bell Gardens, hereby CERTIFY that City Council Resolution No. ___________was adopted by the Bell Gardens City Council at a regular meeting of the City Council held on ___________________, and was approved and passed by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
__________________________
Daisy Gomez
City Clerk
1 2026
CONTRACT SERVICES AGREEMENT
(Vendor: Black & White Emergency Vehicles, LLC)
(Nature of Engagement: Installation of Emergency & Electronics Equipment for a Previously Purchased 2026 Ford Police Vehicle)
THIS CONTRACT SERVICES AGREEMENT (hereinafter, “Agreement”) is made and entered into this day of , 2026 by and between the CITY OF BELL GARDENS, a municipal corporation (hereinafter, “CITY”) and BLACK & WHITE EMERGENCY VEHICLES, LLC (hereinafter, “VENDOR”). For the purposes of this Agreement, CITY and VENDOR may be referred to collectively by the capitalized term “Parties.” The capitalized term “Party” may refer to CITY or VENDOR interchangeably.
RECITALS
WHEREAS, CITY is a municipal corporation organized under the laws of the State of California, with power to contract for services necessary to achieve its purpose; and
WHEREAS, CITY requires the installation of emergency and communications equipment which will include radios, lights, sirens, prisoner transport compartment, laptops, in car camera system and other storage equipment for a previously purchased 2026 Ford vehicle; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Bell Gardens Municipal Code Section ("BGMC")
3.04.100(A), the CITY’s formal purchasing procedures may be dispensed when the City Council finds that such supplies or equipment are unique because of their quality, durability, availability, or fitness for a particular use and are available only from one source, or, if available from more than one source, bidding is not likely to result in the lowest price; and
WHEREAS, VENDOR is the only known installation service company that can provide all the necessary emergency and electronics equipment that the Bell Gardens Police Department utilizes. Additionally, VENDOR is an authorized installer that meets the Ford and Chevrolet manufacturer’s warranty specifications for these types of installations. Lastly, utilization of VENDOR is much more efficient for the City given that obtaining services from individual companies, would likely result in a higher cost; and
WHEREAS, CITY staff has determined that VENDOR possess the skills, experience and expertise required to competently provide the services and tasks contemplated under this Agreement; and
WHEREAS, the execution of this Agreement was approved by the Bell Gardens City Council at its Regular Meeting of February 23, 2026.
NOW, THEREFORE, for and in consideration of the mutual covenants and conditions herein contained, CITY and VENDOR agree as follows:
2 SECTION 1. SCOPE OF WORK.
A. Subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, VENDOR agrees to provide CITY with installation of emergency and communications equipment which will include radios, lights, sirens, prisoner transport compartment, laptops, in car camera system and other storage equipment. The various tasks and related services to be performed by VENDOR are more specifically described in VENDOR’s quote entitled “Black & White Quote Estimate #2598”, dated February 3, 2026 (hereinafter, the “VENDOR QUOTE”), which is attached and incorporated hereto as Exhibit “A”. The capitalized term “Work” shall be a collective reference to all the various services and tasks referenced in the Scope of Work. In the event of any conflict or inconsistency between the provisions of the Scope of Work and the provisions of this Agreement to which the Scope of Work is attached, the provisions of this Agreement shall govern and control.
B. VENDOR shall provide all labor, materials, tools, supplies, equipment, services, tasks and incidental and customary work necessary to competently perform and timely complete the Work. VENDOR shall perform the Work in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Agreement and in accordance with such other written or verbal directives as may be issued by CITY.
C. By executing this Agreement, VENDOR warrants that VENDOR: (i) has thoroughly investigated and considered the nature of the work, services and tasks to be performed under this Agreement; (ii) has carefully considered how the Work should be performed; and (iii) fully understands the facilities, difficulties, and restrictions attending performance of the services under this Agreement. VENDOR warrants that VENDOR has or will investigate any location where the Work is to be performed and is or will be fully acquainted with the conditions there existing, prior to undertaking any service or task requested by CITY in the manner described under this Section. Should the VENDOR discover any latent or unknown conditions which will materially affect the performance of the services hereunder, VENDOR shall immediately inform the CITY of such fact and shall not proceed , except at VENDOR’s risk until written instructions are received from the City Representative as defined herein.
D. In the event VENDOR ceases to perform the Work agreed to under this Agreement or otherwise abandons any undertaking contemplated herein prior to completion and acceptance of the Work, VENDOR shall deliver to CITY immediately and without delay, all materials, records and other work product prepared or obtained by VENDOR in the performance of this Agreement. Furthermore, VENDOR shall only be compensated for the reasonable value of the services, tasks and other work performed up to the time of cessation or abandonment, less a deduction for any damages, costs or additional expenses which CITY may incur as a result of VENDOR’s cessation or abandonment.
SECTION 2. PROSECUTION OF WORK.
A. Time is of the essence for this Agreement and each and every provision contained herein. The Work shall be commenced within three (3) calendar days of CITY’s issuance of a written notice to proceed (“Notice to Proceed”). The Work shall be
3 completed by July 31, 2026 (hereinafter, the “Completion Date”).
B. VENDOR shall perform the Work continuously and with due diligence so as to complete the Work by the Completion Date. VENDOR shall cooperate with CITY and in no manner interfere with the Work of CITY, its employees or other consultants, contractors or agents.
C. VENDOR may submit a written request for additional time to complete the Work, which request must be submitted to the CITY no later than fifteen (15) calendar days prior to the Completion Date or any extended Completion Date granted by CITY. The written request for additional time must identify (i) what specific tasks or services remain to be completed by VENDOR in order to complete the Work; (ii) how much additional time VENDOR requires; (iii) identification of the circumstances that have caused the need for additional time, according to VENDOR, including, if applicable, identification of any tasks that must be completed by CITY as prerequisite to VENDOR being able to complete any other service or task; and (iv) what proactive steps VENDOR has taken up to the date of the request to mitigate the need for additional time, including, if applicable, any effort on the part of VENDOR to alert CITY of the need to provide information or complete certain tasks to be performed by CITY. CITY in its sole and absolute discretion may grant, deny or conditionally grant a request for additional time, provided that no individual grant of additional time may exceed a maximum of fifteen (15) calendar days.
D. VENDOR shall not claim or be entitled to receive any compensation or damage because of the failure of VENDOR, or its subconsultants, to have related services or tasks completed in a timely manner.
E. VENDOR shall at all times enforce strict discipline and good order among VENDOR’s employees.
F. VENDOR, at its sole expense, shall pay all sales, consumer, use or other similar taxes required by law.
SECTION 3. [RESERVED – NO TEXT]
SECTION 4. COMPENSATION.
A. VENDOR shall perform all the Work in accordance with the rates set forth in the VENDOR QUOTE.
B. VENDOR’s total compensation during the term of this Agreement shall not exceed the aggregate sum of TWENTY-EIGHT THOUSAND TWO DOLLARS AND EIGHTY-TWO CENTS ($28,002.82) (hereinafter, the “Aggregate Not-to-Exceed Sum”). VENDOR further agrees that the Aggregate Not-to-Exceed Sum is inclusive of compensation for all labor, materials, tools, supplies, equipment, services, tasks and incidental and customary work necessary to competently perform and timely complete the Work. VENDOR shall have no right or entitlement to any overage contingency sums authorized by the City Council as part of the approval of this Agreement, unless the City Representative authorizes the expenditure of such
4 overage contingency funds in writing in the City Representative’s sole and absolute discretion.
C. Following the conclusion of Work requested pursuant to Section 1, above, VENDOR shall submit to CITY an itemized invoice indicating the services and tasks performed. If the amount of VENDOR’s compensation includes hours worked by VENDOR’s personnel, the invoice shall indicate the number of hours worked in connection with the specific service or task requested, the persons responsible for performing the Work, the rate of compensation at which such services and tasks were performed, the subtotal for each task and service performed and a grand total for all services performed. Within thirty (30) calendar days of receipt of each invoice, CITY shall notify VENDOR in writing of any disputed amounts included in the invoice. Within forty-five (45) calendar days of receipt of each invoice, CITY shall pay all undisputed amounts included on the invoice. CITY shall not withhold applicable taxes or other authorized deductions from payments made to VENDOR.
SECTION 5. STANDARD OF CARE. VENDOR represents, acknowledges and agrees as follows:
A. VENDOR shall perform all work skillfully, competently and to the highest standards applicable to the VENDOR’s field;
B. VENDOR represents and maintains that it is skilled in the professional calling necessary to perform the Work;
C. VENDOR shall perform all work in a manner reasonably satisfactory to the CITY;
D. VENDOR shall comply with all applicable federal, state and local laws and regulations, including the conflict of interest provisions of Government Code Section 1090 and the Political Reform Act (Government Code Section 81000 et seq.). VENDOR’s compliance with applicable laws will include, without limitation, compliance with all applicable Cal/OSHA requirements and applicable regulations of the Federal Department of Housing and Urbanization;
E. VENDOR understands the nature and scope of the Work to be performed under this Agreement as well as any and all schedules of performance;
F. All of VENDOR’s employees and agents (including but not limited to VENDOR’s subcontractors and subconsultants) possess sufficient skill, knowledge, training and experience to perform those services and tasks contemplated under this Agreement;
G. All of VENDOR’s employees and agents (including but not limited to VENDOR’s subcontractors and subconsultants) possess all licenses, permits, certificates, qualifications and approvals of whatever nature that are legally required to perform the tasks and services contemplated under this Agreement and all such licenses, permits, certificates, qualifications and approvals shall be maintained throug hout the term of this Agreement; and
H. VENDOR shall at all times employ such force, plant, materials, and tools as will be
5 sufficient in the opinion of the CITY to perform the Work within the time limits established, and as provided herein. It is understood and agreed that said tools, equipment, apparatus, facilities, labor, and material shall be furnished and said Work performed and completed as required by the Agreement, and subject to the approval of the CITY’s authorized representative. The quality of Work shall meet or exceed those standards established by the CITY, or the City or County of jurisdiction.
The Parties acknowledge and agree that VENDOR shall perform, at VENDOR’s own cost and expense and without any reimbursement from CITY, any services or tasks necessary to correct any errors or omissions caused by VENDOR’s failure to comply with the standard of care set forth under this Section or by any like failure on the part of VENDOR’s employees, agents, contractors, subcontractors and subconsultants. Such effort by VENDOR to correct any errors or omissions shall be commenced immediately upon their discovery by either Party and shall be completed within seven (7) calendars days from the date of discovery or such other extended period of time authorized by the City Representative in writing and absolute discretion. The Parties acknowledge and agree that VENDOR’s acceptance of any work performed by VENDOR or on VENDOR’s behalf shall not constitute a release of any deficiency or delay in performance. The Parties further acknowledge, understand and agree that VENDOR has relied upon the foregoing representations of VENDOR, including but not limited to the representation that VENDOR possesses the skills, training, knowledge and experience necessary to perform the Work in a skillful and competent manner equivalent to, the standard of performance generally recognized as being employed by professionals performing the same type of work a nd services in the State of California.
SECTION 6. REPRESENTATIVES.
A. City Representative. For the purposes of this Agreement, the contract administrator and CITY’s representative shall be Chief Paul Camacho (hereinafter, the “City Representative”). It shall be VENDOR’s responsibility to assure that the City Representative is kept informed of the progress of the performance of the services, and VENDOR shall refer any decisions which must be made by CITY to the City Representative. Unless otherwise specified herein, any approval of CITY required hereunder shall mean the approval of the City Representative.
B. Vendor Representative. For the purposes of this Agreement, John Patino, is hereby designated as the principal and representative of VENDOR authorized to act on its behalf with respect to VENDOR’s performance under this Agreement and to make all decisions in connection therewith (the “Vendor Representative”).
Notice to the Vendor Representative whether written or verbal shall constitute notice to VENDOR. The Vendor Representative shall supervise and direct the Work, using his best skill and attention, and shall be responsible for all means, methods, techniques, sequences, and procedures and for the satisfactory coordination of all portions of the Work under this Agreement.
SECTION 7. VENDOR’S PERSONNEL.
A. VENDOR represents that it has, or will secure at its own expense, all personnel required to perform the Work and all other services and tasks necessary for
6 VENDOR to competently and timely complete the improvements contemplated under this Agreement. All Work, services and tasks will be performed under VENDOR’s supervision, and VENDOR’s personnel engaged in the performance of the work, services and tasks contemplated under this Agreement shall possess the qualifications, permits and licenses required by applicable law to perform such work, services and tasks.
B. VENDOR shall obtain at its sole cost and expense such licenses, permits, and approvals as may be required by law for the performance of the Work. VENDOR shall have the sole obligation to pay for any fees, assessments and taxes, plus applicable penalties and interest, which may be imposed by law and arise from or are necessary for the VENDOR’s performance of the Work, and shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless CITY against any such fees, assessments, taxes, penalties, or interest levied, assessed, or imposed against CITY hereunder.
C. VENDOR shall be solely responsible for the satisfactory work performance of all personnel engaged in performing the Work.
D. In the event that CITY, in its sole reasonable discretion, at any time during the term of this Agreement, desires the removal of any person or persons assigned by VENDOR to perform services pursuant to this Agreement, VENDOR shall remove any such person immediately upon receiving notice from CITY of the desire of CITY for the removal of such person or persons.
E. VENDOR shall be responsible for payment of all employees’ and subconsultants’ wages and benefits and shall comply with all requirements pertaining to employer’s liability, workers’ compensation, unemployment insurance, and Social Security.
F. VENDOR shall obtain and maintain during the Agreement term all necessary licenses, permits and certificates required by law for the performance of the Work contemplated under this Agreement.
SECTION 8. SUBSTITUTION OF KEY PERSONNEL. VENDOR has represented to CITY that certain key personnel will perform and coordinate the Work under this Agreement. Should one or more of such personnel become unavailable, VENDOR may substitute other personnel of at least equal competence upon written approval of CITY.
In the event that CITY and VENDOR cannot agree as to the substitution of key personnel, CITY shall be entitled to terminate this Agreement for cause. As discussed below, any personnel who fail or refuse to perform the Work in a manner acceptable to the CITY, or who are determined by the CITY to be uncooperative, incompetent, a threat to the adequate or timely completion of the Project or a threat to the safety of persons or property, shall be promptly removed from the Project by the VENDOR at the request of the CITY.
SECTION 9. [RESERVED – NO TEXT]
SECTION 10. PROHIBITED INTERESTS. VENDOR warrants, represents and maintains that it has not employed nor retained any company or person, other than a bona fide employee working solely for VENDOR, to solicit or secure this Agreement. Further, VENDOR warrants and represents that it has not paid nor has it agreed to pay any
7 company or person, other than a bona fide employee working solely for VENDOR, any fee, commission, percentage, brokerage fee, gift or other consideration contingent upon or resulting from the award or making of this Agreement. For breach or violation of this warranty, CITY shall have the absolute and unfettered right to rescind t his Agreement without liability or penalty. For the term of this Agreement, no member, officer or employee of CITY, during the term of his or her service with CITY, shall have any direct interest in this Agreement, or obtain any present or anticipated material benefit arising therefrom.
SECTION 11. INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR.
A. All acts of VENDOR, its agents, officers, subcontractors and employees and all others acting on behalf of VENDOR relating to the performance of this Agreement, shall be performed as independent contractors and not as agents, officers, or employees of CITY. VENDOR, by virtue of this Agreement, has no authority to bind or incur any obligation on behalf of CITY. VENDOR has no authority or responsibility to exercise any rights or power vested in CITY. No agent, officer, or employee of CITY is to be considered an employee of VENDOR. It is understood by both VENDOR and CITY that this Agreement shall not, under any circumstances, be construed or considered to create an employer-employee relationship or a joint venture.
B. VENDOR, its agents, officers, subcontractors and employees are and, at all times during the Term of this Agreement, shall represent and conduct themselves as independent contractors and not as employees of CITY.
C. VENDOR shall determine the method, details and means of performing the Work.
VENDOR shall be responsible to CITY only for the requirements and results specified in this Agreement and, except as expressly provided in this Agreement, shall not be subjected to CITY's control with respect to the physical action or activities of the VENDOR in fulfillment of this Agreement. VENDOR has control over the manner and means of performing the services under this Agreement.
VENDOR is permitted to provide services to others during the same period as it provides services to CITY under this Agreement. If necessary, VENDOR has the responsibility for employing other persons or firms to assist VENDOR in fulfilling the terms and obligations under this Agreement.
D. If in the performance of this Agreement any third persons are employed by VENDOR, such persons shall be entirely and exclusively under the direction, supervision, and control of VENDOR. All terms of employment including hours, wages, working conditions, discipline, hiring, and discharging or any other term of employment or requirement of law shall be determined by the VENDOR.
E. It is understood and agreed that as an independent contractor and not an employee of CITY, neither the VENDOR nor VENDOR's assigned personnel shall have any entitlement as a CITY employee, right to act on behalf of CITY in any capacity whatsoever as an agent, or to bind CITY to any obligation whatsoever.
F. As an independent contractor, VENDOR hereby indemnifies and holds CITY harmless from any and all claims that may be made against CITY based upon any
8 contention by any third party that an employer-employee relationship exists by reason of this Agreement.
SECTION 12. CONFLICTS OF INTEREST. VENDOR hereby warrants for itself, its employees, and subcontractors that those persons presently have no interest and shall not obtain any interest, direct or indirect, which would conflict in any manner with the performance of the services contemplated by this Agreement. No person having such conflicting interest shall be employed by or associated with VENDOR in connection with this project. VENDOR hereby warrants for itself, its employees, and subcontractors that no such person shall engage in any conduct which would constitute a conflict of interest under any CITY ordinance, state law or federal statute. VENDOR agrees that a clause substantially similar to this Section shall be incorporated into any sub -contract that VENDOR executes in connection with the performance of this Agreement.
SECTION 13. NON-DISCRIMINATION. During the performance of this Agreement, VENDOR and its subcontractors shall not unlawfully discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, sexual orientation, reproductive health decision making or military and veteran status. VENDOR and subcontractors shall ensure that the evaluation and treatment of their employees and applicants for employment are free of such discrimination. VENDOR and subcontractors shall comply with the provisions of the Fair Employment and Housing Act (Gov. Code, Section 12900 et seq.). The applicable regulations of the Fair Employment and Housing Act, set forth in Part 2.8, Division 3, of Title 2 of the Government Code are incorporated into this Contract by reference and made a part hereof as if set forth in full. VENDOR and its subcontractors shall give written notice of their obligations under this clause to labor organizations with which they have a collective bargaining or other agreement. This VENDOR shall include the nondiscrimination and compliance provisions of this clause in all subcontracts to perform the Work under this Agreement.
SECTION. 14. INDEMNIFICATION.
A. To the fullest extent permitted by law, VENDOR hereby agrees, at its sole cost and expense, to defend, protect, indemnify, and hold harmless CITY and CITY’s elected and appointed officials, officers, attorneys, agents, employees, volunteers, successors, and assigns (collectively "Indemnitees") from and against any and all damages, costs, expenses, liabilities, claims, demands, causes of action, proceedings, expenses, judgments, penalties, liens, and losses of any nature whatsoever, including fees of accountants, attorneys, or other professionals and all costs associated therewith (collectively "Liabilities"), arising or claimed to arise, directly or indirectly, out of, in connection with, resulting from, or related to any act, failure to act, error, or omission of VENDOR or any of VENDOR’s officers, agents, servants, employees, subcontractors, materialmen, suppliers or their officers, agents, servants or employees, arising or claimed to arise, directly or indirectly, out of, in connection with, resulting from, or related to this Agreement and the performance or failure to perform any term, provision, covenant, or condition of the Agreement, including this indemnity provision. This indemnity provision is effective regardless of any prior, concurrent, or subsequent active or passive negligence by VENDOR and shall operate to fully indemnify Indemnitees against any such
9 negligence. This indemnity provision shall survive the termination of the Agreement and is in addition to any other rights or remedies which Indemnitees may have under the law or elsewhere under this Agreement. Payment is not required as a condition precedent to an Indemnitee's right to recover under this indemnity provision, and an entry of judgment against any one or more of the Indemnitees shall be conclusive in favor of the Indemnitees’ right to recover under this indemnity provision. VENDOR shall pay Indemnitees for any attorney’s fees and costs incurred in enforcing this indemnification provision. Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing in this instrument shall be construed to encompass (a) Indemnitees' sole negligence or willful misconduct to the li mited extent that the underlying Agreement is subject to Civil Code § 2782(a), or (b) the contracting public agency's active negligence to the limited extent that the underlying Agreement is subject to Civil Code § 2782(b). This indemnity is effective wit hout reference to the existence or applicability of any insurance coverage(s) which may have been required under the Agreement or any additional insured endorsements which may extend to Indemnitees. Accountants, attorneys, or other professionals employed by Indemnitor to defend Indemnitees shall be selected by Indemnitees.
VENDOR, on behalf of itself and all parties claiming under or through it, hereby waives all rights of subrogation and contribution against the Indemnitees, while acting within the scope of their duties, from all claims, losses and liabilities arising out of or incident to activities or operations performed by or on behalf of the Indemnitor regardless of any prior, concurrent, or subsequent active or passive negligence by the Indemnitees.
B. VENDOR’s obligations under this or any other provision of this Agreement will not be limited by the provisions of any workers compensation act or similar act.
VENDOR expressly waives its statutory immunity under such statutes or laws as to the Indemnities.
C. VENDOR agrees to obtain executed indemnity agreements with provisions identical to those in this Section from each and every subcontractor or any other person or entity involved by, for, with or on behalf of VENDOR in the performance of this Agreement. In the event VENDOR fails to obtain such indemnity obligations for the benefit of CITY, VENDOR agrees to be fully responsible and indemnify, hold harmless and defend CITY, its officers, agents, employees and volunteers from and against any and all claims and losses, costs or expenses for any damage due to death or injury to any person and injury to any property resulting from any alleged, intentional, reckless, negligent or otherwise wrongful acts, errors or omissions of VENDOR or any of its officers, employees, servants, agents, subcontractors, volunteers or any other person or entity involved by, for, with or on behalf of VENDOR in the performance of this Agreement. Such costs and expenses shall include reasonable attorneys’ fees incurred by counsel of CITY’s choice.
D. CITY does not, and shall not; waive any rights that it may possess against VENDOR because of the acceptance by CITY, or the deposit with CITY, of any insurance policy or certificate required pursuant to this Agreement. This hold harmless and indemnification provision shall apply regardless of whether or not any insurance policies are determined to be applicable to the claim, demand, damage, liability, loss, cost or expense. VENDOR agrees that VENDOR’s
10 covenant under this Section shall survive the termination of this Agreement.
E. VENDOR shall fully comply with the workers’ compensation laws regarding VENDOR and VENDOR’s employees. VENDOR further agrees to indemnify and hold CITY harmless from any failure of VENDOR to comply with applicable workers’ compensation laws. CITY shall have the right to offset against the amount of any fees due to VENDOR under this Agreement any amount due to CITY from VENDOR as a result of VENDOR’s failure to promptly pay to CITY any reimbursement or indemnification arising under this Section.
SECTION 15. INSURANCE.
A. VENDOR shall at all times during the term of this Agreement carry, maintain, and keep in full force and effect, insurance as follows:
1. Commercial General Liability Insurance with minimum limits of One Million Dollars ($1,000,000) for each occurrence and in the aggregate for any personal injury, death, loss or damage.
2. Automobile Liability Insurance for any owned, non -owned or hired vehicle used in connection with the performance of this Agreement with minimum limits of One Million Dollars ($1,000,000) per accident for bodily injury and property damage.
3. Worker’s Compensation insurance as required by the State of California.
B. VENDOR shall require each of its sub-consultants or sub-contractors to maintain insurance coverage that meets all of the requirements of this Agreement.
C. The policies required by this Agreement shall be issued by an insurer admitted in the State of California and with a rating of at least A:VII in the latest edition of Best’s Insurance Guide.
D. VENDOR agrees that if it does not keep the insurance required in this Agreement in full force and effect, CITY may either immediately terminate this Agreement or, if insurance is available at a reasonable cost, CITY may take out the necessary insurance and pay, at VENDOR’s expense, the premium thereon.
E. Prior to commencement of Work under this Agreement, VENDOR shall file with CITY’s Risk Manager a certificate or certificates of insurance showing that the insurance policies are in effect and satisfy the required amounts and specifications required pursuant to this Agreement.
F. VENDOR shall provide proof that policies of insurance expiring during the Term of this Agreement have been renewed or replaced with other policies providing at least the same coverage. Such proof will be furnished at least two weeks prior to the expiration of the coverages.
G. The general liability and automobile policies of insurance shall contain an endorsement naming CITY, its elected officials, officers, agents, employees,
11 attorneys, servants, volunteers, successors and assigns as additional insureds.
All of the policies shall contain an endorsement providing that the policies cannot be canceled or reduced except on thirty (30) days’ prior written notice to CITY.
VENDOR agrees to require its insurer to modify the certificates of insurance to delete any exculpatory wording stating that failure of the insurer to mail written notice of cancellation imposes no obligation, and to delete the word “endeavor” with regard to any notice provisions.
H. All policies of Commercial General Liability and Automobile Liability insurance shall be primary and any other insurance, deductible, or self-insurance maintained by the CITY, its officials, officers, employees, agents, or volunteers shall not contribute with this primary insurance. Policies shall contain or be endorsed to contain such provisions.
I. All insurance coverage provided pursuant to this Agreement shall not prohibit VENDOR, and VENDOR’s employees, agents, subcontractors, or volunteers from waiving the right of subrogation prior to a loss. VENDOR hereby waives all rights of subrogation against CITY, its officials, officers, employees, agents and volunteers.
J. Any deductibles or self-insured retentions must be approved by CITY. At the option of CITY, VENDOR shall either reduce or eliminate the deductibles or self - insured retentions with respect to CITY, or VENDOR shall procure a bond guaranteeing payment of losses and expenses.
K. If VENDOR is a Limited Liability Company, general liability coverage must be amended so that the Limited Liability Company and its managers, affiliates, employees, agents, and other persons necessary or incidental to its operation are insureds.
L. Procurement of insurance by VENDOR shall not be construed as a limitation of VENDOR’s liability or as full performance of VENDOR’s duties to indemnify, hold harmless and defend under Section 14 of this Agreement.
M. In the event any policy of insurance required under this Agreement does not comply with these specifications or is canceled and not replaced immediately so as to avoid a lapse in the required coverage, CITY has the right but not the duty to obtain the insurance it deems necessary and any premium paid by CITY will be promptly reimbursed by VENDOR or CITY will withhold amounts sufficient to pay premium from VENDOR payments. In the alternative, CITY may cancel this Agreement effective upon notice.
N. CITY reserves the right to modify these requirements, including limits, based on the nature of the risk, prior experience, insurer, coverage, or other special circumstances.
SECTION 16. RECORDS AND INSPECTION. VENDOR shall keep, and require subcontractors to keep, such books and records as shall be necessary to document the performance of the Work and enable the CITY to evaluate the performance of the Work.
The Contract Officer shall have full and free access to such books and records at all times
12 during normal business hours of CITY, including the right to inspect, copy, audit, and make records and transcripts from such records. Such records shall be maintained for a period of four (4) years following completion of the services hereunder, and the C ITY shall have access to such records in the event any audit is required.
SECTION 17. TERMINATION.
A. Termination for Convenience. CITY may immediately terminate this Agreement for convenience, without cause and without penalty or liability at any time upon the issuance of written notice to VENDOR specifying the effective date of such termination. Such termination for convenience shall be made in writing signed by the City Manager. VENDOR may only terminate this Agreement for cause.
B. Termination for Cause. In the event either Party fails to perform any duty, obligation, service or task set forth under this Agreement (or fails to timely perform or properly perform any such duty, obligation, service or task set forth under this Agreement), an event of default (hereinafter, “Event of Default”) shall occur. For all Events of Default, the Party alleging an Event of Default shall give written notice to the defaulting Party (hereinafter referred to as a “Default Notice”) which shall specify: (i) the nature of the Event of Default; (ii) the action required to cure the Event of Default; (iii) a date by which the Event of Default shall be cured, which shall not be less than the applicable cure period set forth in this Section or if a cure is not reasonably possible within the applicable cure period, to begin such cure and diligently prosecute such cure to completion. The Event of Default shall constitute a breach of this Agreement if the defaulting Party fails to cure the Event of Default within the applicable cure period or any extended cure period allowed under this Agreement. An Event of Default shall include, but shall not be limited to the following: (i) VENDOR’s failure to fulfill or perform its obligations under this Agreement within the specified time or if no time is specified, within a reasonable time; (ii) VENDOR’s and/or its employees’ disregard or violation of any federal, state, local law, rule, procedure or regulation; (iii) the initiation of proceedings under any bankruptcy, insolvency, receivership, reorganization, or similar legislation as relates to VENDOR, whether voluntary of involuntary; (iv) VENDOR’s refusal or failure to perform or observe any covenant, condition, obligation or provision of this Agreement; and/or (v) CITY’s discovery that a statement representation or warranty by VENDOR relating to this Agreement is false or erroneous in any material respect, including any statement, representation or warranty set forth in the VENDOR RFP.
1. VENDOR shall cure the following Event of Default within the following time periods:
i. Within three (3) business days of CITY’s issuance of a Default Notice for any failure of VENDOR to timely provide CITY or CITY’s employees or agents with any information and/or written reports, documentation or work product which VENDOR is obligated to provide to CITY or CITY’s employees or agents under this Agreement. Prior to the expiration of the 3-day cure period, VENDOR may submit a written request for additional time to cure the Event of Default upon a showing that VENDOR has commenced efforts to cure the Event of Default and that
13 the Event of Default cannot be reasonably cured within the 3 -day cure period. The foregoing notwithstanding, CITY shall be under no obligation to grant additional time for the cure of an Event of Default under this subsection that exceeds seven (7) calendar days from the end of the initial 3-day cure period; or
ii. Within thirty (30) calendar days of CITY’s issuance of a Default Notice for any other Event of Default under this Agreement. Prior to the expiration of the 30-day cure period, VENDOR may submit a written request for additional time to cure the Event of Default upon a showing that VENDOR has commenced efforts to cure the Event of Default and that the Event of Default cannot be reasonably cured within the 30-day cure period. The foregoing notwithstanding, CITY shall be under no obligation to grant additional time for the cure of an Event of Default under this subsection that exceeds thirty (30) calendar days from the end of the initial 30-day cure period.
If an Event of Default relates to a material falsehood or misrepresentation set forth in Exhibit “A” that is not susceptible to a cure, CITY in its sole and absolute discretion may elect to treat the falsehood or misrepresentation as a breach of this Agreement or waive the falsehood or misrepresentation. The foregoing notwithstanding, the prior waiver of a falsehood or misrepresentation as an Event of Default shall not operate as a waiver or any other falsehood or misrepresentation later discovered by CITY.
2. Except as otherwise specified in this Agreement, CITY shall cure any Event of Default asserted by VENDOR within thirty (30) calendar days of VENDOR’s issuance of a Default Notice, unless the Event of Default cannot reasonably be cured within the 30-day cure period. Prior to the expiration of the 30-day cure period, CITY may submit a written request for additional time to cure the Event of Default upon a showing that CITY has commenced its efforts to cure the Event of Default and that the Event of Default cannot be reasonably cured within the 30-day cure period. The foregoing notwithstanding, an Event of Default dealing with CITY’s failure to timely pay any undisputed sums to VENDOR shall be cured by CITY within five (5) calendar days from the date of VENDOR’s Default Notice to CITY.
3. CITY, in its sole and absolute discretion, may also immediately suspend VENDOR’s performance under this Agreement (or the performance of any specific task or function performed by VENDOR under this Agreement) pending VENDOR’s cure of any Event of Default by giving VENDOR written notice of CITY’s intent to suspend VENDOR’s performance (hereinafter, a “Suspension Notice”). CITY may issue the Suspension Notice at any time upon the occurrence of an Event of Default. Upon such suspension, VENDOR shall be compensated only for those services and tasks which have been rendered by VENDOR to the reasonable satisfaction of CITY up to the effective date of the suspension. No actual or asserted breach of this Agreement on the part of CITY shall operate to prohibit or otherwise restrict CITY’s ability to suspend this Agreement as provided herein.
14 4. No waiver of any Event of Default or breach under this Agreement shall constitute a waiver of any other or subsequent Event of Default or breach. No waiver, benefit, privilege, or service voluntarily given or performed by a Party shall give the other Party any contractual rights by custom, estoppel, or otherwise.
5. The duties and obligations imposed under this Agreement and the rights and remedies available hereunder shall be in addition to and not a limitation of any duties, obligations, rights and remedies otherwise imposed or available by law.
In addition to any other remedies available to CITY at law or under this Agreement in the event of any breach of this Agreement, CITY, in its sole and absolute discretion, may also pursue any one or more of the following remedies:
i. Upon written notice to VENDOR, the CITY may immediately terminate this Agreement in whole or in part;
ii. Upon written notice to VENDOR, the CITY may extend the time of performance;
iii. The CITY may proceed by appropriate court action to enforce the terms of the Agreement to recover damages for VENDOR’s breach of the Agreement or to terminate the Agreement; or
iv. The CITY may exercise any other available and lawful right or remedy.
VENDOR shall be liable for all legal fees plus other costs and expenses that CITY incurs upon a breach of this Agreement or in the CITY’s exercise of its remedies under this Agreement.
6. In the event CITY is in breach of this Agreement, VENDOR’s sole remedy shall be the suspension or termination of this Agreement and/or the recovery of any unpaid sums lawfully owed to VENDOR under this Agreement for completed services and tasks. In no event shall VENDOR be entitled to receive more than the amount that would be paid to VENDOR for the full performance of the services required by this Agreement.
7. No waiver of any default or breach under this Agreement shall constitute a waiver of any other default or breach, whether of the same or other covenant, warranty, agreement, term, condition, duty or requirement contained in this Agreement. No waiver, benefit, privilege, or service voluntarily given or performed by a Party shall give the other Party any contractual rights by custom, estoppel, or otherwise.
SECTION 18. FORCE MAJEURE. The Term shall be extended in the event of any delays due to unforeseeable causes beyond the control of VENDOR and without the fault or negligence of VENDOR, including but not limited to severe weather, fires, earthquakes, floods, epidemics, quarantine restrictions, riots, strikes, freight embargoes, wars, litigation, and/or acts of any governmental agency, including the CITY, if the VENDOR shall within three (3) calendar days of the commencement of such delay notify the City
15 Representative in writing of the causes of the delay. The City Representative shall ascertain the facts and the extent of delay, and extend the time for performing the services for the period of the enforced delay when and if in the judgment of the City Representative such delay is justified. The City Representative’s determination shall be final and conclusive upon the parties to this Agreement. In no event shall VENDOR be entitled to recover damages against the CITY for any delay in the performance of thi s Agreement, however caused, VENDOR’s sole remedy being extension of the Agreement pursuant to this Section.
SECTION 19. NOTICES. Any notices, bills, invoices, or reports required by this Agreement shall be deemed received on: (a) the day of delivery if delivered by hand or overnight courier service during VENDOR’s and CITY’s regular business hours; or (b) on the third business day following deposit in the United States mail, postage prepaid, to the addresses heretofore below, or to such other addresses as the parties may, from time to time, designate in writing.
If to CITY: If to VENDOR:
City of Bell Gardens
7100 S. Garfield Avenue
Bell Gardens, CA 90201
Attn: Chief Paul Camacho
Phone: 562-806-7700
With a courtesy copy to:
Stephanie Vasquez
Olivarez Madruga Law Organization, LLP
500 S. Grand Avenue, Floor 12
Los Angeles, CA 90071
Telephone: 213-744-0099
Facsimile: 213-744-0093
Black & White Emergency Vehicles,
LLC
590 South Vincent Avenue
Azusa, CA 91702
Attn: John Patino
Phone: 626-334-6300
SECTION 20. PROHIBITION. VENDOR shall not delegate, transfer, subcontract or assign its duties or rights hereunder, either in whole or in part, without CITY’s prior written consent, and any attempt to do so shall be void and of no effect. CITY shall not be obligated or liable under this Agreement to any party other than VENDOR.
SECTION 21. ATTORNEY FEES. In the event that CITY or VENDOR commences any legal action or proceeding to enforce or interpret the provisions of this Agreement, the prevailing party shall be entitled to recover its costs of suit, including reasonable attorney’s fees.
SECTION 22. ENTIRE AGREEMENT. All documents referenced as exhibits in this Agreement are hereby incorporated in this Agreement. Except as expressly provided in this Agreement or its Exhibits, in the event of any conflict or inconsistency between the express provisions of this Agreement and provisions of any document incorporated by reference, the provisions of this Agreement shall prevail and control. This instrument contains the entire Agreement between CITY and VENDOR with respect to the subject matter herein. No other prior oral or written agreements are binding on the parties. Any
16 modification of this Agreement will be effective only if it is in writing and executed by both CITY and VENDOR.
SECTION 23. GOVERNING LAW; JURISDICTION. This Agreement shall be interpreted and governed according to the laws of the State of California. In the event of litigation between the Parties, venue, without exception, shall be in the Los Angeles County Superior Court of the State of California. If, and only if, applicable law requires that all or part of any such litigation be tried exclusively in federal court, venue, without exception, shall be in the Central District of California located in the City of Los Angeles, California.
SECTION 24. SEVERABILITY. Wherever possible, each provision of this Agreement shall be interpreted in such a manner as to be valid under applicable law. If any provision of this Agreement is determined by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, void or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall nevertheless continue in full force and effect.
SECTION 25. CAPTIONS. The captions used in this Agreement are solely for reference and the convenience of the Parties. The captions are not a part of the Agreement, in no way bind, limit, or describe the scope or intent of any provision, and shall have no effect upon the construction or interpretation of any provision herein.
SECTION 26. EXECUTION. This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of which when taken together shall constitute one and the same instrument. One fully executed original counterpart will be delivered to VENDOR and one original counterpart will be retained by CITY.
[SIGNATURES ON FOLLOWING PAGE]
17 IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be executed the day and year first appearing in this Agreement, above.
CITY OF BELL GARDENS, a municipal
corporation
By:
Michael B. O’Kelly
City Manager
Date: _____
BLACK & WHITE EMERGENCY
VEHICLES, LLC
By: ______________________________
Name:____________________________
Title:_____________________________
Date: ___________
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
By:_____________________________
Stephanie Vasquez
City Attorney
Date: _______
18 EXHIBIT “A”
VENDOR QUOTE
BLACK & WHITE EMERGENCY VEHICLES, LLC
590 S Vincent Ave
Azusa, CA 91702-5130 USA
6263346300
[email protected]
www.blackandwhiteev.com
Estimate
ADDRESS
Bell Gardens Police
Department
7100 Garfield Ave.
Bell Gardens, CA 90201
SHIP TO
Bell Gardens Police
Department
Bell Gardens Police
Department
7100 Garfield Ave.
Bell Gardens, CA 90201
ESTIMATE #2598
DATE 02/03/2026
SHIP DATE
03/08/2023
DATE ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION QTY RATE AMOUNT
SIFMJS-FPIU20-P3 SpectraLux ILS Low Profile
Red/White/Blue 2020 Ford Utility
1 1,161.45 1,161.45T
PF200S17B Pathfinder 17 Button (TB-
INTG22)
1 1,497.85 1,497.85T
ES100C Speaker, ES00C/DynaMax,
100W, High Output
1 0.00 0.00T
ESB-U Universal Siren Speaker Bracket
for ES100
1 0.00 0.00T
RBKIT2-COMPACT Pair of Rumbler Compact Low
Frequency Speakers for use
with Integrated Rumbler
Capability
1 566.95 566.95T
OBDCABLE25-2 25FT OBDII Interface Cable for
2020-2021+ Ford PIU
1 165.30 165.30T
EXPMOD24 24-Channel Expansion Module 1 326.25 326.25T
EXMOD-2 Rear Expansion Module For
Pathfinder
1 408.90 408.90T
EXPHARN03 Rear Taillight Connection Wire
Harness For Use with Rear
Expansion Module, Ford PIU
2020-2023
1 135.45 135.45T
SIFMJH-FPIU20-P3 SpectraLux ILS Rear Low Profile
Red/Amber/Blue 2020 Ford
Utility
1 1,146.95 1,146.95T
36-2125 Westin Ford Utility Push Bumper
2020+
1 461.25 461.25T
36-2125PB Westin Pit Bar Ford Utility 2020+1 419.53 419.53T 36-6005F2MP Two Light Channel Federal
Signal MicroPulse Light
1 42.89 42.89T
DATE ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION QTY RATE AMOUNT
36-2125WC Elite Upright Wire Cover Ford
Utility 2020+
1 42.88 42.88T
BIKERACK Bike Rack for Front Bumper
Removable
1 235.00 235.00T
MPS63U-RBW Micro Pulse Ultra 6 Tri-Color 18
LEDs Red/Blue/White
6 149.35 896.10T
MPSM6U-
FPIU20SMW
Kit of 2 20 Degree Rubber
Mounting Wedges. 2020+ Ford
Utility Mirrors
1 18.95 18.95T
416918-RBW 416900 Series 18-LED Corner
LED Light Head Tri-Color
Red/Blue/White
2 79.50 159.00T
416900-VHB No Drill Mount for Ford Utility 1 15.11 15.11T MPS63U-RBA Micro Plus Ultra 6, Tri-Color
Clear Lens Surface Mount R/B/A
2 149.35 298.70T
416918-RBA 416900 Series Corner LED
Red/Blue/Amber
2 79.50 159.00T
SRUS-ERUN-RBW 60 in Elite Runner Light, Triple
Color RBW w/White Override
2 387.80 775.60T
CC-UV20-L-18 Troy 2020+ Ford PIU 18"
Specific Console
1 486.81 486.81T
AC-INBHG Troy 4" Internal Dual Cup Holder 1 51.84 51.84T AC-TB-ARMMNT-58 Console Mounted Height
Adjustable Swivel Arm Rest
1 172.53 172.53T
TP-E-SL6-US-SS Troy Stash N Stow Cage with
Sliding Center Window
W/Square Hole-Punched Style
Guard
1 858.60 858.60T
KP-UV20-DAP-SS 2020 PI Utility 3pc. Kick Panel w/
Foot Pockets Use with Big Boy
Mount
1 185.49 185.49T
SAB-20-FDUV-BB 2020 PI Utility Big-Boy Partition
Mounting Kit
1 0.00 0.00T
PS-20-UVFX-OS-RL Plastic Seat with OS Belts, Rear
Partition Polycarbonate Window,
with Fire Extinguisher
Compartment
1 1,944.00 1,944.00T
AC-20-UV-SET 2020+ Ford PIU
Driver/Passenger Side Set of
Diamond-Punched Window
Screens
1 209.79 209.79T
AC-20-UV-HATCH 2020+Ford PIU Hatch Window
Screen
1 140.13 140.13T
CM-SDMT-SL-LED Console Side Mount w/Rotating
Slide- Arm for Docking Station
1 477.09 477.09T
EM-20UV-CRGDCK-
2DWR-STRG
2020-25 PI Utility Cargo Deck
with front storage compartment
with lid. Features lift out storage
tray, electronics drawer, weapon
drawer equipped with a push
1 3,280.50 3,280.50T
DATE ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION QTY RATE AMOUNT
button lock system
MMSU-1 Magnetic Mic Single Unit 2 36.75 73.50T
CH26.2.20.Standard Ch 26 Standard Harness 1 877.50 877.50T GK11191B1SSSCA Setina Dual T-Rail Mount 1 SM 1
1080E Blac-Rac
1 996.00 996.00T
WIRE&TERMINALS Wire, Terminals, Tie-Wraps, &
Hardware
1 260.00 260.00T
FULL,BUILD Installation of all Emergency
Equipment and Customer
provide Two Way Radio, Lens
Lock Camera,and Computer into
a 2025 Ford Utility Police
Vehicle.
1 5,200.00 5,200.00
PWAT-119-GPSD-IP-
D8500
Panorama Antenna Kit: Includes
Multi-Element Antenna Tri-Band
2-Way Radio, Wi-Fi, GPS for
Motorola APX 8500
1 631.50 631.50T
7170-1090-10 Dock DELL Laptop Non RF
w/HDMI w/120W Power Adapter
1 1,011.06 1,011.06T
2025 Slick Top Build SUBTOTAL 25,789.45
TAX 2,213.37
TOTAL $28,002.82
Accepted By Accepted Date
1 CITY OF BELL GARDENS
OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TO:Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
FROM:Michael O’Kelly, City Manager
BY: Paul Camacho, Chief of Police
SUBJECT: Consideration of a Resolution Approving an Academy Recruit Training Agreement with the County of Los Angeles
MEETING DATE:February 23, 2026
RECOMMENDATION:
It is staff’s recommendation that the City Council approve the attached Resolution reaffirming an Academy Recruit Training Agreement with the County of Los Angeles.
BACKGROUND / DISCUSSION:
On November 10, 2025, the City Council considered a Law Enforcement Agreement (“Former Agreement”) between the City and the County. On December 18, 2025, the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department (“LASD”) provided a revised Academy Recruit Training Agreement (“New Agreement”), authorized by the County, to replace and supersede the Former Agreement.
The New Agreement includes the revised terms under which the County will provide training for Bell Gardens Police Department’s (“BGPD”) new recruits during their academy attendance.
Significant changes between the two agreements include:
•Scope of Services:
Former Agreement: Covered supplemental law enforcement services from the LASD to the City (including duties and functions customarily rendered by LASD under the County Charter and state statutes).
New Agreement: LASD will provide POST-certified training to the City’s new recruits.
•Indemnification:
New Agreement includes the County’s drill instructors; the prior agreement did not. •Term:
Former Agreement: Would terminate on June 30, 2026, unless terminated sooner or extended in whole or in part.
2 New Agreement: Will remain indefinite, unless terminated sooner in whole or in part.
•Right to Terminate:
Former Agreement: Allowed LASD to cancel provision of services with 10 calendar days advance notice, or less under exigent circumstances such as insufficient personnel.
New Agreement: Increases that provision to 30 calendar days or less. •Responsibility Upon Early Termination:
Former Agreement: Each party would be fully discharged of all obligations owed to the other party and both parties would be released from all obligations accrued after the termination date.
New Agreement: All outstanding financial obligations incurred by the City before the termination will remain due and payable.
CONCLUSION:
Approval of the Academy Recruit Training Agreement with the County will ensure that BGPD recruits receive the necessary POST-certified training through the LASD Academy, supporting the department’s recruitment and staffing goals while maintaining the City’s commitment to high-quality public safety services.
FISCAL IMPACT:
As previously mentioned, funding for the training services associated with this Academy Recruit Training Agreement is included in the Fiscal Year Police Department Budget Training account. The estimated cost per recruit is $7,832, for a total not-to-exceed $15,664.
APPROVALS:
Michael B. O'Kelly, City Manager
Stephanie Vasquez, City Attorney
Manuel Carrillo, Director of Finance and Administrative Services
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-23
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BELL
GARDENS, CALIFORNIA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO
EXECUTE AN ACADEMY RECRUIT TRAINING AGREEMENT WITH THE
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES
WHEREAS, on November 10, 2025, the City Council considered a Law Enforcement Agreement between the City of Bell Gardens (“City”) and the County of Los Angeles (“County”) for supplemental law enforcement services; and
WHEREAS, on December 18, 2025, the Sheriff’s Department provided the City with a revised Academy Recruit Training Agreement, authorized by the County, to replace and supersede the Law Enforcement Agreement; and
WHEREAS, the Academy Recruit Training Agreement includes revisions to the scope of services, indemnification provision, term, right to terminate, and responsibility upon early termination of the Agreement; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has considered the significant changes between both agreements; and
WHEREAS, the City and the County wish to enter into the Academy Recruit Training Agreement for the Sheriff’s Department to provide POST-certified training to the City’s new recruits.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Bell Gardens as follows:
SECTION 1. The City Council hereby finds that the above recitals are true and correct and incorporated into the body of this Resolution by reference.
SECTION 2. The City Council hereby approves the Academy Recruit Training Agreement with the County.
SECTION 3. The City Council hereby authorizes the City Manager to execute the Academy Recruit Training Agreement with the County.
SECTION 4. The City Clerk shall attest and certify to the passage and adoption of this Resolution and enter it into the book of original resolutions, and it shall become effective immediately upon its approval.
[Signatures on the following page]
Resolution No. 2026-23
2 of 3
PASSED, APPROVED and ADOPTED this 23rd day of February, 2026.
THE CITY OF BELL GARDENS
___________________________
Miguel De La Rosa, Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM: ATTEST:
________________________________ ___________________________ Stephanie Vasquez Daisy Gomez
City Attorney City Clerk
Resolution No. 2026-23
3 of 3
I, Daisy Gomez, City Clerk of the City of Bell Gardens, hereby CERTIFY that City Council Resolution No. 2026-23 was adopted by the Bell Gardens City Council at a regular meeting of the City Council held on Monday, February 23, 2026, and was approved and passed by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
Daisy Gomez
City Clerk
CITY OF BELL GARDENS
OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TO:Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
FROM:Michael B. O’Kelly, City Manager
BY: Bernardo Iniguez, Director of Public Works/Facilities SUBJECT:Consideration of a Resolution Approving a Water Right License and Agreement with Liberty Utilities (Park Water) Corp. Granting a License to Extract 2,000 Acre-Feet of City’s Groundwater Pumping Allocation Rights for FY2025-2026
DATE: February 23, 2026
RECOMMENDATION:
It is staff’s recommendation that the City Council adopt the attached Resolution approving a Water Right License and Agreement with Liberty Utilities (Park Water) Corp. (“Liberty”) granting a license to extract 2,000 acre-feet of the City’s unused groundwater pumping allocation rights for fiscal year 2025-2026, for a total amount of $100,000.
BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION:
Since 1991, the City of Bell Gardens (City) has owned a potable water system that serves the northerly portion of the City, consisting of approximately 1,700 service connections.
Groundwater from the City’s only operating well, Well No. 1, had been the main source of water supply for the City’s water system; however, Well No. 1 has been out of commission since September 2021 due to the detection of PFAS/PFOA. Since that time, the City has been purchasing imported water from the Metropolitan Water District at an average rate of $107,000 per month to provide water to customers of the City’s water system.
The City receives an annual allocation of 1,914 acre-feet of groundwater pumping rights in the Central Basin Watermaster Service Area pursuant to a Court Adjudication of the Basin. When Well No. 1 was operational, the City’s water system used approximately 1,200 acre-feet of those water rights annually. However, the City did not pump any groundwater in fiscal year 2024-2025 due to Well No.1 being out of commission. The Central Basin Watermaster allows the leasing of unused water pumping rights to water purveyors in the same Central Basin region through a Water Right License and Agreement.
The City has approximately 2,218 acre-feet of unused water pumping rights available for lease for fiscal year 2025-2026. The City has generally leased its unused water rights to water purveyors within the Central Basin Watermaster Service Area, with revenue going back to the City’s Water Fund.
On February 7, 2026, the City released a Request for Proposals for Lease of Water Pumping Rights in FY 2025-2026 with flex. On February 11, 2026, the City received one proposal from Liberty to lease 2,000 acre-feet of water rights with flex at a rate of $50 per acre-foot, for a total payment of $100,000. Staff reviewed the proposal and deemed it satisfactory.
CONCLUSION:
If approved, staff will process the Water Right License and Agreement for signatures and will file a copy of the executed agreement with the Central Basin Watermaster.
FISCAL IMPACT:
The lease of the City’s 2,000 acre-feet of water rights to Liberty for fiscal year 2025-2026 will generate $100,000 in revenue for the City’s Water Fund.
APPROVALS:
Michael B. O'Kelly, City Manager
Stephanie Vasquez, City Attorney
Manuel Carrillo, Director of Finance and Administrative Services
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-24
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BELL
GARDENS, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING A WATER RIGHT LICENSE
AND AGREEMENT WITH LIBERTY UTILITIES (PARK WATER) CORP.
GRANTING A LICENSE TO EXTRACT 2,000 ACRE-FEET OF CITY’S GROUNDWATER PUMPING ALLOCATION RIGHTS FOR FY 2025-2026.
WHEREAS, the City of Bell Gardens (“City”) receives an annual allocation of 1,914 acre-feet of groundwater pumping rights in the Central Basin Watermaster Service Area (“Central Basin”) pursuant to a Judgment dated October 11, 1965, and entered in Los Angeles Superior Court Case No. 786,656 entitled “Central and West Basin Water Replenishment District vs. Charles E. Adams, et al.;” and WHEREAS, the City’s total allowed water pumping allocation rights for fiscal year 2024-2025 was 2,912 acre-feet, including carry-over; and WHEREAS, the City will close fiscal year 2025-2026 with unused water pumping rights in the Central Basin due to Well No. 1 being inoperable as a result of PFAS/PFOA detections; and
WHEREAS, on February 7, 2026, the City solicited proposals from water purveyors in the Central Basin for the lease, with flex, of up to 2,000 acre-feet of water rights for the period from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026; and WHEREAS, the City received one proposal from Liberty Utilities (Park Water) Corp. (“Liberty”) for the lease of 2,000 acre-feet of water rights, with flex, at a rate of $50 per acre-foot for a total payment of $100,000; and
WHEREAS, the City desires to enter into a Water Right License and Agreement with Liberty.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Bell Gardens as follows:
SECTION 1. The City Council of the City of Bell Gardens hereby finds that the above recitals are true and correct and incorporate them herein by this reference.
SECTION 2. The City Council approves the Water Right License and Agreement with Liberty for the lease of 2,000 acre-feet of water rights, and authorizes and directs the City Manager to execute the Water Right License and Agreement in substantially the same form as attached to the Agenda Report accompanying this Resolution.
SECTION 3. The City Council further authorizes the City Manager, or his designee, to file a copy of the executed agreement with the Central Basin Watermaster.
Resolution No. 2026-24
2 of 3
SECTION 4. The City Clerk shall attest and certify to the passage and adoption of this Resolution and enter it into the book of original resolutions, and it shall become effective immediately upon its approval.
PASSED, APPROVED and ADOPTED this 23rd day of February, 2026.
THE CITY OF BELL GARDENS
___________________________
Miguel De La Rosa, Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM: ATTEST:
________________________________ ___________________________ Stephanie Vasquez Daisy Gomez
City Attorney City Clerk
Resolution No. 2026-24
3 of 3
I, Daisy Gomez, City Clerk of the City of Bell Gardens, hereby CERTIFY that City Council Resolution No. 2026-24 was adopted by the Bell Gardens City Council at a regular meeting of the City Council held on Monday, February 23, 2026, and was approved and passed by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
Daisy Gomez
City Clerk
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
FOR
LEASE OF WATER PUMPING RIGHTS
FY 2025-2026
RFP Release Date
Wednesday, February 4, 2026
Proposal Submittal Deadline
5:30 p.m., Wednesday, February 11, 2026
Contact Person:
Bernardo Iniguez, Director of Public Works/Facilities
City of Bell Gardens
8327 Garfield Avenue
Bell Gardens, CA 90201
(562) 806-7770
[email protected]
7100 Garfield Avenue • Bell Gardens, CA 90201 • (562) 806-7700 • www.bellgardens.org
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
FOR THE LEASE OF THE CITY OF BELL GARDENS’ WATER PUMPING RIGHTS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2025-2026
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN the City of Bell Gardens (City) is accepting proposals from water purveyors in the Central Basin for the lease of up to 2,000 acre-feet of groundwater pumping allocation rights with flex for Fiscal Year 2025-2026.
The proposals shall be sealed and marked "Proposal for Lease of Water Pumping Rights FY 2025-2026" and include a completed version of “Water Lease Proposal” form.
All submitted proposals will be reviewed and analyzed by City staff and the proposal(s) that best meets the City’s needs will be selected for further analysis and negotiation, as deemed necessary or appropriate by the City.
The City reserves the right to award the lease of any portion or all of the above-mentioned 2,000 acre feet to any one proposer, or combination of proposers, or reject all proposals.
The successful proposer must execute a lease agreement with City (see attached sample draft agreement). The lease agreement is to be executed within ten (10) days after acceptance and award by the City’s City Council. The term of the lease agreement will commence upon execution of the lease agreement by both parties and continue in effect until June 30, 2026.
Each lessee will be required to pay all Water Replenishment District of Southern California assessments imposed on the amount of water production that is leased. The City will inform the Central Basin Watermaster as to the amount of water rights leased and intention of both parties.
Proposals are due no later than Wednesday, February 11, 2026, by 5:30 p.m. and must be submitted electronically via email to: [email protected] and copied to:
[email protected]
Questions regarding this Request for Proposals should be directed to Bernardo Iniguez, Director of Public Works/Facilities at [email protected] or (562) 806-7770.
WATER LEASE PROPOSAL
The undersigned hereby submits the following proposal for the lease of the City of Bell Gardens’ water pumping allocation rights with flex, and acknowledges receipt of the attached lease agreement.
Payment will be due within 30 days after the effective date of the Lease Agreement.
FISCAL YEAR 2025-2026 (Ending June 30, 2026)
Quantity: Acre Feet
(maximum of 2,000 Acre Feet with Flex)
Price: $ Per Acre Feet
Total Amount of Lease: $
The City reserves the right to award successful proposers less than the number of acre feet upon which they have bid, a combination of proposers, or reject any or all proposals without cause.
Proposer/Company:
Authorized Representative:
Address:
Phone Number: Email
Signed: Date:
2,000
50 100,000
Liberty Utilities (Park Water) Corp.
Kenneth Pfister
2750 Washburn Road, Downey, Ca. 9241
562-636-9605 [email protected]
02/05/2026
DRAFT
2026
WATER RIGHT LICENSE AND AGREEMENT
(Central Basin)
For a valuable consideration, the City of Bell Gardens, a municipal corporation (hereinafter, “Licensor”) hereby grants to _________________ (hereinafter, “Licensee”) a license to extract ________ acre-feet of Licensor’s Allowed Pumping Allocation allocated to Licensor (or predecessors in interest) under and pursuant to Judgment dated October 11, 1965, and entered in Los Angeles Superior Court Case No. 786,656 entitled “Central and West Basin Water Replenishment District vs. Charles E. Adams, et al.” during the period commencing July 1, 2025, and continuing to and including June 30, 2026.
Said License is granted subject to the following conditions:
1. Licensee shall exercise said right and extract the same on behalf of Licensor during the period above specified and put the same to beneficial use and Licensee shall not by the exercise hereunder of said right acquire any right to extract water independent of the rights of Licensor.
2. Licensee shall pay assessments levied on the pumping of said ground waters by the Water Replenishment District of Southern California (“District”).
3. Licensee shall notify the District that said pumping was done pursuant to this license and provide the District with a copy of this signed document.
4. Licensee shall note, in any recording of water production for the period of agreement, that said pumping was done pursuant to this license.
5. Licensee shall pay to Licensor a total amount of _______, based on a rate of _____ per acre-foot, following acceptance of this agreement by the Watermaster.
6. Licensee’s Allowed Pumping Allocation shall be increased by the amount hereby leased when computing carryover or allowable overextraction as provided by Part III, Subpart A and B in said Judgment.
The City of Bell Gardens warrants that it has ____acre-feet of Allowed Pumping Allocation and that it has not pumped and will not pump or permit or license any other person to pump any part of said ____acre-feet during the period of July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026.
This lease may be signed by the parties by facsimile, electronic or digital signature, and such signature shall be deemed valid and binding on the party signing this lease in that manner.
Dated:
Licensor: City of Bell Gardens Licensee:
By: ___________________________ By: ___________________________ Micheal B. O’Kelly, City Manager Title:
Attest:
____________________________________
Daisy Gomez, City Clerk
Approved as to Form:
By: _________________________________
Stephanie Vasquez, City Attorney
CITY OF BELL GARDENS
OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TO:Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
FROM:Michael O’Kelly, City Manager
BY: Bernardo Iniguez, Director of Public Works/Facilities Douglas Benash, P.E., City Engineer
SUBJECT: Approval of Plans and Specifications and Authorization to Solicit Bids for the Slurry Seal Improvement Zones 1 and 2 (CIP No. 3941) MEETING DATE:February 23, 2026
RECOMMENDATION:
It is staff’s recommendation that the City Council:
1. Approve the plans and specifications for the Slurry Seal Improvement Zones 1 and 2 (CIP No. 3941);
2. Authorize staff to solicit competitive bids and publish the Notice Inviting Sealed Bids (NISB); and
3. Find that the project is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Guidelines Section 15301(c).
BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION:
Engineering staff has completed the design and construction documents for the Slurry Seal Improvement Zones 1 and 2 (the “Project”). The Project scope of work includes slurry seal, cold milling and overlaying of existing AC Pavement, striping and markings, curb painting, and all items in the plans and specifications. The construction documents, which include plans, specifications, and engineer estimate (PS&E) have been completed in accordance with the City’s internal procurement policies and the Public Contract Code.
The total contract period for this project is forty (40) working days.
The general location and limit of the work is as follows:
ZONES 1 AND 2:
No.Name of Street From To
1 Ludell St.Ajax Ave.El Selinda Ave.
2 Alley Ajax Ave.El Selinda Ave.
3 El Cortez Ave.Loveland St.Lubec St.
4 Ajax Ave.Lubec St.Ludell St.
5 Jaboneria Rd.Gage Ave.Loveland St.
6 Marlow Ave.Loveland St.Lubec St.
7 Ajax Ave.Loveland St.Lubec St.
8 Jaboneria Rd.Florence Ave.Fry St.
9 Watcher St.Specht Ave.Eastern Ave.
10 Jaboneria Rd.Fry St.Live Oak St.
11 Watcher St.End Specht Ave
12 Ajax Ave.Ludell St.Florence Ave
13 Purdy Ave.Loveland St.Lubec St.
14 Jaboneria Rd.Lubec St.Ludell St.
15 Jaboneria Rd.Ludell St.Florence Ave.
16 Alley Ajax Ave.El Selinda Ave.
17 Alley Watcher St.Alley
18 Eastern Ave.Gage Ave.Loveland St.
19 Eastern Ave.Gage Ave.Loveland St.
20 Priory St.Eastern Ave.Jaboneria Rd.
21 Purdy Ave.Live Oak St.Priory St.
22 Live Oak St.Eastern Ave.Purdy Ave.
Upon authorization by the City Council, staff will proceed with the bid phase of the Project, publishing the Notice Inviting Sealed Bids (NISB) in a local newspaper of general circulation and other electronic media, and posting the plans and specifications on the City’s website. Bids will be publicly opened, and a construction contract will be awarded to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder at a future City Council meeting. The published NISB will state the time and place for receiving and opening of sealed bids and will distinctly describe the Project. The NISB will be published in accordance with Public Contract Code § 20164.
The tentative Bid Schedule is as follows:
•Authorization to Bid February 23, 2026
•Publish Bid February 25, 2026
•Mandatory Pre-Bid/Site Walk March 4, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. •Last Day for Questions/RFI March 5, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. •Bid Opening March 11, 2026, at 11:30 a.m.
•Anticipated Award of Contract March 23, 2026
•Pre-construction Meeting April 7, 2026 (Tentative)
•Construction Begins April 27, 2026 (Tentative)
DESIGN IMMUNITY:
Government Code section 830.6 states in part, “Neither a public entity nor a public employee is liable for an injury caused by the plan or design of a construction of, or an improvement to, public property where such plan or design has been approved in advance of the construction or improvement by the legislative body of the public entity or by some other body or employee exercising discretionary authority to give such approval
or where such plan or design is prepared in conformity with standards previously approved.”
In order to bid the Project and provide California design immunity, per Government Code section 830.6, the City Council must approve the plans and specifications prior to the construction bidding process. The intent of Section 830.6 is to prevent a judge or jury from second-guessing discretionary approvals made by the public agency and its employees regarding a plan or design for a construction project.
The plans and specifications for the Project are consistent with the City’s standards and the General Plan. Staff’s recommendation for City Council approval of the plans and specifications is intended to avail the City of the immunities set forth in Government Code section 830.6, prior to proceeding with construction of the Project. Through the City Council’s approval, the Director of Public Works/Facilities, as the City’s project manager, would be authorized to act on the City’s behalf, in approving any necessary alterations or modifications of the plans and specifications throughout the course of the Project.
ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS:
Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) (Public Resources Code §§ 21000, et seq.) and CEQA Guidelines (California Code of Regulations, Title 14, §§ 15000, et seq.), the City conducted an environmental assessment. Based on the environmental assessment, the Project was determined to be categorically exempt pursuant to CEQA Guidelines § 15303 (Class 1 –Existing Facilities). A Notice of Exemption for the Project will be prepared and filed with the L.A. County Registrar Recorder’s Office.
CONCLUSION:
Upon authorization by the City Council, staff will proceed with the bid phase of the Project.
FISCAL IMPACT:
The City’s FY 2024-2025 capital improvement budget includes a construction budget of $413,235, consisting of $188,235 in Measure R and $225,000 in Measure M. The engineer’s estimate for construction is $345,451.68.
APPROVED ELECTRONICALLY BY:
Michael B. O'Kelly, City Manager
Stephanie Vasquez, City Attorney
Manuel Carrillo, Director of Finance and Administrative Services
NOTICE INVITING SEALED BID
FOR
SLURRY SEAL IMPROVEMENT ZONES 1 AND 2
C.I.P. NO. 3941
IN THE CITY OF BELL GARDENS
PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Bell Gardens, (hereinafter, “CITY” or “AGENCY”) invites sealed bids for the above-stated project and will receive such bids in the offices of the City Clerk, City Hall, 7100 South Garfield Avenue, Bell Gardens, California 90201, up to the hour of 11:30 a.m. on March 11, 2026, at which time they will be publicly opened.
Copies of the Plans, Specifications, and contract documents are available on the City’s website at https://www.bellgardens.org/i-want-to/view-bids-rfps/rfps-and-bids
To comply with SB 854, beginning January 1, 2015, the following applies:
1. No contractor or subcontractor may be listed on a bid proposal for public works project (submitted on or after March 1, 2015) unless registered with the Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) pursuant to Labor Code section 1725.5 [with limited exceptions from this requirement for bid purposes only under Labor Code section 1771.1(a)].
2. No contractor or subcontractor may be awarded a contract for public works on a public works project awarded on or after April 1, 2015, unless registered with the DIR.
3. The project is subject to compliance monitoring and enforcement by the DIR.
4. Require the prime contractor to post job site notices prescribed by regulation (regulation not created yet) or the City must post the notices itself.
The bidder is required to submit any Requests for Information (RFIs) via email to Bernardo Iniguez, Director of Public Works/Facilities, at [email protected], with a copy to [email protected] and [email protected]. All RFIs must be submitted no later than March 5, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.
Attendance at a pre-bid meeting is mandatory and will be held on March 4, 2026, at 1:00 pm at the City of Bell Gardens Public Works Yard, located at 8327 Garfield Avenue, Bell Gardens, California 90201. All Prime Contractors are required to have a representative attend and sign in at the pre-bid meeting. Failure to comply with this attendance and sign in requirements will result in Bidder’s proposal being found non- responsive to the required procedures.
Any contract entered into pursuant to this notice will incorporate the provisions of the State Labor Code. Pursuant to the provisions of Section 1773.2 of the Labor Code of the
State of California, the minimum prevailing rate of per hourly wages for each craft, classification or type of workman needed to execute the contract shall be those determined by the Director of Industrial Relations of the State of California, which are on file at the City Hall, City of Bell Gardens, 7100 South Garfield Avenue, Bell Gardens, California 90201, and are available to any interested party on request.
Attention is directed to the provisions of Section 1777.5 (Chapter 1141, Statutes of 1968) and 1777.5 of the Labor Code concerning the employment of apprentices by the Contractor or any such subcontractor under him. Affirmative action to ensure against discrimination in employment practices on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, ancestry, sex, religion, or handicap will also be required.
The AGENCY will deduct five percent (5%) retention from all progress payments as specified in Section 9-3.2 of these specifications. The Contractor may substitute an escrow holder surety of equal value to the retention. The Contractor shall be the beneficial owner of the surety and shall receive any interest thereon. Contractor shall provide AGENCY with weekly payroll reports.
The AGENCY hereby affirmatively ensures that minority business enterprises will be afforded full opportunity to submit bids in response to this notice and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, ancestry, sex, religion, sexual orientation or handicap in any consideration leading to the award of contract.
In entering into a public works contract, or a subcontract, to supply goods, services, or material pursuant to a public works contract, the Contractor, or subcontractor, offers and agrees to assign to the awarding body all rights, title and interest in, and to, all causes of action it may have under Section 4 of the Clayton Act (15 U.S.C. Section 15) or under the Cartwright Act (Chapter 2 [commencing with Section 16700] of part 2 of Division 7 of the Business and Professions Code), arising from purchases of goods, services, or materials pursuant to the public works contract or the subcontract. This assignment shall be made and become effective at the time the awarding body tenders final payment to the Contractor, without further acknowledgment by the parties.
Bids must be prepared on the approved proposal forms or copies thereof in conformance with the Instructions to Bidders and submitted in a sealed envelope plainly marked on the outside as follows:
SLURRY SEAL IMPROVEMENT ZONES 1 AND 2
C.I.P. NO. 3941
The bid must be accompanied by cash, a certified or cashier’s check, or bidder’s bond, issued by an “admitted surety insurer” made payable to the AGENCY for an amount no less than ten percent (10%) of the total base bid amount.
All bidders shall be licensed in accordance with the provisions of the Business and Professions Code and shall possess a State Contractor’s License, Class A or C12, at the time of bid submittal. The successful Contractor and each of his subcontractors will be required to possess a Business License from the City.
The liquidated damages for this project is five hundred dollars ($500.00) per calendar day the project is not completed within the contract time.
The AGENCY reserves the right to reject any or all bids, to waive any irregularity and to take all bids under advertisement for a period of ninety (90) days.
The Contractor shall complete all work, in every detail, within forty (40) working days, consisting of five (5) days working for mobilization and thirty-five (35) working days for construction. All work shall begin after the effective date of the Notice to Proceed with Construction, which will be issued by the CITY.
BY ORDER OF the City of Bell Gardens, California.
Dated: February 23, 2026
CITY OF BELL GARDENS
OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
FROM: Michael O’Kelly, City Manager
BY: Bernardo Iniguez, Director of Public Works/Facilities Douglas Benash, P.E., City Engineer
SUBJECT: Rejection of Bids Received for the Ford Park Playground and Restroom Improvements Project (CIP No. 3926) and Approval of Plans and Specifications
MEETING DATE: February 23, 2026
RECOMMENDATION:
It is staff’s recommendation that the City Council:
1. Approve the rejection of all bids received on January 27, 2026;
2. Approve the plans and specifications for the Ford Park Playground and Restroom Improvements Project (CIP No. 3926);
3. Authorize staff to re -advertise and publish the Notice Inviting Sealed Bids (NISB); and
4. Find that the project is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Guidelines Section 15301 (c).
BACKGROUND / DISCUSSION:
In November 2016, Los Angeles County voters approved the Safe, Clean Neighborhood Parks, Open Space Beaches, Rivers Protection, and Water Conservation Measure (Measure A), administered by the Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District. The City was awarded $1,046,902 in Measure A funds for the Ford Park Playground and Restroom Replacement Project. The scope of work included demolition of the existing restroom and playground, construction of a prefabricated restroom facility, and installation of new playground equipment and related site improvements. The demolition of the Ford Park East Restroom/Sunshine Building was completed in August 2025.
On November 10, 2025, the City Council approved the plans and specifications and authorized staff to solicit bids for Ford Park Playground and Restroom Improvements Project, CIP No. 3926 (“the Project”). The City issued a notice inviting competitive bids for the Project on December 19, 2025. The Notice Inviting Sealed Bids (NISB) was advertised on the City’s website and in the City’s local newspaper. The Project scope of work included the construction of a new playground area with a new pre-fabricated restroom building, new playground equipment, new resilient rubber surfacing, new concrete play area bond beam, new concrete walkways, new site furnishings (picnic tables, bench/chair seating, waste receptacles), new drinking fountain, new site lighting,
new irrigation, new tree and shrub plantings, and all other items as required to provide a completely operational facility.
On January 27, 2026, the City received fourteen (14) bid proposals for this project. At this time, staff has determined that the bid solicitation materials need to be revised to obtain a bid that is more appropriate for the City’s needs; therefore, a rejection of bids is recommended.
All bidders that previously submitted bids will be invited to re-submit bids. Staff anticipates the revised bid solicitation will be released on February 24, 2026, and a recommendation of award of the Construction Contract will be made to the City Council on March 23, 2026.
DESIGN IMMUNITY: Government Code section 830.6 states in part, "Neither a public entity nor a public employee is liable for an injury caused by the plan or design of a construction of, or an improvement to, public property where such plan or design has been approved in advance of the construction or improvement by the legislative body of the public entity or by some other body or employee exercising discretionary authority to give such approval or where such plan or design is prepared in conformity with standards previously approved."
In order to bid the Project and provide California design immunity, per Government Code section 830.6, the City Council must approve the plans and specifications prior to the construction bidding process. The intent of Section 830.6 is to prevent a judge or jury from second-guessing discretionary approvals made by the public agency and its employees regarding a plan or design for a construction project.
The plans and specifications for the Project are consistent with the City' standards and the General Plan. Staff's recommendation for City Council approval of the plans and specifications is intended to avail the City of the immunities set forth in Government Code section 830.6. prior to proceeding with construction of the Project. Through the City Council’s approval, the Director of Public Works/ Facilities, as the City's project manager, would be authorized to act on the City's behalf in approving any necessary alterations or modifications of the plans and specifications throughout the course of the Project.
ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS:
Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) (Public Resources Code §§ 21000, et seq.) and CEQA Guidelines (California Code of Regulations, Title 14, §§ 15000, et seq.), the City conducted an environmental assessment. Based on the environmental assessment, the Project was determined to be categorically exempt pursuant to CEQA Guidelines § 15303 (Class 1 –Existing Facilities). A Notice of Exemption for the Project has been prepared and will be filed with the L.A. County Registrar Recorder’s Office.
CONCLUSION:
Upon City Council approval of the recommended action, staff will immediately notify all bidders of the rejection of bids received on January 27, 2026; and re-advertise and publish the NISB.
FISCAL IMPACT:
The City’s FY 2025-2026 Capital Improvement Budget includes a total of $1,911,031 of Measure A, Prop 68, and General Funds.
APPROVALS:
Michael B. O'Kelly, City Manager
Stephanie Vasquez, City Attorney
Manuel Carrillo, Director of Finance and Administrative Services
NOTICE INVITING SEALED BID
FOR
FORD PARK PLAYGROUND AND RESTROOM IMPROVEMENTS
(CIP No. 3926)
PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Bell Gardens, (hereinafter, “CITY” or “AGENCY”) invites sealed bids for the above-stated project and will receive such bids in the offices of the City Clerk, City Hall, 7100 South Garfield Avenue, Bell Gardens , California 90201, up to the hour of 11:00 a.m. on March 11, 2026, at which time they will be publicly opened.
Copies of the Plans, Specifications, and contract documents are available on the City’s website at https://www.bellgardens.org/i-want-to/view-bids-rfps/rfps-and-bids
To comply with SB 854, beginning January 1, 2015 the following applies:
1. No contractor or subcontractor may be listed on a bid proposal for public works project (submitted on or after March 1, 2015) unless registered with the Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) pursuant to Labor Code section 1725.5 [with limited exceptions from this requirement for bid purposes only under Labor Code section 1771.1(a)].
2. No contractor or subcontractor may be awarded a contract for public works on a public works project awarded on or after April 1, 2015, unless registered with the DIR.
3. The project is subject to compliance monitoring and enforcement by the DIR.
4. Require the prime contractor to post job site notices prescribed by regulation (regulation not created yet) or the City must post the notices itself.
The bidder is required to submit any Requests for Information (RFIs) via email to Bernardo Iniguez, Director of Public Works/Facilities, at [email protected], with a copy to [email protected] and [email protected]. All RFIs must be submitted no later than March 5, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.
Attendance at a pre-bid meeting is mandatory and will be held on March 4, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at the John Anson Ford Park Playground, located east of 7950 Scout Avenue, Bell Gardens, California 90201. All Prime Contractors are required to have a representative attend and sign in at the pre-bid meeting. Failure to comply with this attendance and sign in requirements will result in Bidder’s proposal being found non - responsive to the required procedures.
Any contract entered into pursuant to this notice will incorporate the provisions of the State Labor Code. Pursuant to the provisions of Section 1773.2 of the Labor Code of the State of California, the minimum prevailing rate of per hourly wages for each craft, classification or type of workman needed to execute the contract shall be those determined by the Director of Industrial Relations of the State of California, which are on file at the City Hall, City of Bell Gardens, 7100 South Garfield Avenue, Bell Gardens, California 90201, and are available to any interested party on request.
Attention is directed to the provisions of Section 1777.5 (Chapter 1141, Statutes of 1968) and 1777.5 of the Labor Code concerning the employment of apprentices by the Contractor or any such subcontractor under him. Affirmative action to ensure against discrimination in employment practices on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, ancestry, sex, religion, or handicap will also be required.
The AGENCY will deduct five percent (5%) retention from all progress payments as specified in Section 9-3.2 of these specifications. The Contractor may substitute an escrow holder surety of equal value to the retention. The Contractor shall be beneficial owner of the surety and shall receive any interest thereon. Contractor shall provide AGENCY with weekly payroll reports.
The AGENCY hereby affirmatively ensures that minority business enterprises will be afforded full opportunity to submit bids in response to this notice and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, ancestry, sex, religion, sexual orientation or handicap in any consideration leading to the award of contract.
In entering into a public works contract, or a subcontract, to supply goods, services, or material pursuant to a public works contract, the Contractor, or subcontractor, offers and agrees to assign to the awarding body all rights, title and interest in, and to, all causes of action it may have under Section 4 of the Clayton Act (15 U.S.C. Section 15) or under the Cartwright Act (Chapter 2 [commencing with Section 16700] of part 2 of Division 7 of the Business and Professions Code), arising from purchases of goods, services, or materials pursuant to the public works contract or the subcontract. This assignment shall be made and become effective at the time the awarding body tenders final payment to the Contractor, without further acknowledgment by the parties.
Bids must be prepared on the approved proposal forms or copies thereof in conformance with the Instructions to Bidders and submitted in a sealed envelope plainly marked on the outside as follows:
FORD PARK PLAYGROUND AND RESTROOM IMPROVEMENTS
(CIP No. 3926)
The bid must be accompanied by cash, a certified or cashier’s check, or bidder’s bond, issued by an “admitted surety insurer” made payable to the AGENCY for an amount no less than ten percent (10%) of the total base bid amount.
All bidders shall be licensed in accordance with the provisions of the Business and Professions Code and shall possess a State Contractor’s License, Class A or C12, at the time of bid submittal. The successful Contractor and each of his subcontractors wil l be required to possess a Business License from the City.
The liquidated damages for this project is five hundred dollars ($500.00) per calendar day the project is not completed within the contract time.
The AGENCY reserves the right to reject any or all bids, to waive any irregularity and to take all bids under advertisement for a period of ninety (90) days.
The Contractor shall complete all work, in every detail, within forty (40) working days, consisting of five (5) days working for mobilization and thirty-five (35) working days for construction. All work shall begin after the effective date of the Notice to Proceed with Construction, which will be issued by the CITY.
BY ORDER OF the City of Bell Gardens, California.
Dated: February 23, 2026
CITY OF BELL GARDENS
OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TO:Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
FROM:Michael O’Kelly, City Manager
BY: Daisy Gomez, City Clerk
SUBJECT:Local Commissions Appointment List
MEETING DATE:February 23, 2026
RECOMMENDATION:
It is staff's 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
Updated: 1/20/2026
CITY OF BELL GARDENS
NOTICE OF COMMISSION VACANCIES
AND ACTIVE COMMISSIONERS
EDUCATION COMMISSION
PLANNING COMMISSION
RECREATION, CULTURAL AND YOUTH COMMISSION
SENIOR CITIZEN COMMISSION
TRAFFIC AND SAFETY COMMISSION
The City Council is seeking applications for the following vacancies:
Meeting Date: Second Thursday of every month, City Hall Council Chamber, 5:00 p.m.
Staff Liaison - Ana Avalos, Recreation and Community Services Supervisor, (562) 806-7650 Meeting Date: Third Wednesday of every month, City Hall Council Chamber, 5:15 p.m.
Staff Liaison - Alfonso Hernandez, City Planner, (562) 806-7723 VACANT Barcena 9/17/2025
Meeting Date: Third Thursday of every month, City Hall Council Chamber, 6:00 p.m.
Staff Liaison – Armando Andrade, Recreation and Community Services Supervisor, (562) 806-7650 Meeting Date – Second Wednesday of every month, City Hall Council Chamber, 6:00 p.m.
Staff Liaison – Diana Ortiz, Recreation and Community Services Supervisor (562) 806-7650 Meeting Date – First Tuesday of every month, City Hall Council Chamber, 5:30 p.m.
Staff Liaison – Bernardo Iniguez , Director of Public Works/Facilities (562) 806-7770 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
Ereni de la Paz Barcena 9/22/2025
Linda Judith Lopez Chavez 4/28/2025
Crystal Jimenez De La Rosa 1/13/2025
Juan Manuel Rojas Guillen 1/27/2025
Miguel Maravilla Sanchez 1/13/2025
Carlos Jose Barrera Chavez 1/13/2024
Kenneth Preciado De La Rosa 1/13/2025
Yorgelys Monroy Guillen 2/11/2025
Oscar Boado Sanchez 9/11/2023
VACANT Barcena 1/6/2025
Katelynn Cabrera Chavez 4/28/2025
Ainslee Preciado De La Rosa 10/9/2023 2/24/2025
Karla Acosta Guillen 3/11/2025
Carmen Vargas Sanchez 7/22/2024
Ana Maria Sanchez Flores Barcena 1/9/2023
Mayra Teresa Yañez Chavez 4/28/2025
Karina Garcia De La Rosa 5/12/2025
VACANT Guillen
Stephanie Perez Sanchez 1/23/2023
David Heredia Barcena 1/9/2023
Edgar Juvenal Lopez Bustillos Chavez 4/28/2025
Gustavo Mendez De La Rosa 4/14/2025
Samuel Perez Guillen 2/24/2025
Pedro Trujillo Sanchez 10/9/2025 1/12/2026
NAME APPOINTED BY VACANCY
POSTED
APPOINTMENT
DATE
CITY OF BELL GARDENS
OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TO:Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
FROM:Michael O’Kelly, City Manager
BY: Elizabeth Nava, Director of Recreation and Community Services SUBJECT:Bell Gardens Art and Yard Sale Program Update
MEETING DATE:February 23, 2026
RECOMMENDATION
It is staff's recommendation that the City Council receive and file the Bell Gardens Art and Yard Sale Program Update report.
BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION:
Under the Bell Gardens Municipal Code 5.32.010, residents are allowed to conduct up to five garage sales per year without obtaining a permit. Members of the community who are unable to participate in garage sale weekend because of lack of space, low foot traffic (due to being in a more secluded location), or other circumstances outside of their control, expressed their concerns about their inability to participate in garage sale weekend. In order to address this concern, in May 2023, staff received direction from City Council to start the Art and Yard Sale Program (“Program”), which takes place weekly, every Friday, at Veterans Park from 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
The Program allows residents a 10x10 space at Veterans Park where they can sell handmade crafts, art, clothing, used goods, and other personal items (similar to what is typically seen at a standard yard sale). A set of guidelines has been established to maintain fairness in the application process and ensure order within the Program. The guidelines prohibit the sale of food and beverages; the resale of commercially purchased products; multilevel marketing sales and direct sale business transactions; and other items that would otherwise contradict the purpose of the Program. This Program is not a space for business owners to come sell their goods; rather, it is solely for residents who want or need a space to host a yard sale.
The Program steadily grew in popularity, quickly filling up all available spaces and creating a long waitlist of residents interested in participating.
Weekly Friday Program — New Structure
Staff has developed new guidelines to provide those on the waiting list with an opportunity to participate in the Program. Beginning March 1, 2026, the following program structure will be implemented.
A new time, from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. will be offered at the request of the Program participants. There are currently 90 spaces available each Friday in the Program. Spaces are limited to 90 due to available staff resources and parking restrictions at Veterans Park, particularly while other programs, such as the Free Farmers Market, food distributions, and the newly added craft fairs are simultaneously taking place. Of the 90 spaces, 80 are
designated for regular participants to utilize on a weekly basis. The remaining 10 spaces are reserved for day passes, which may be used by residents who would like an opportunity to sell but do not require a regular space, or who are interested in testing out the program before committing to it on a long-term basis.
Under the new structure:
•A total of 160 participants will be divided into two rotating groups. •Group A consists of 80 residents assigned to the first two Fridays of the month. •Group B consists of 80 residents assigned to the last two Fridays of the month. •Ten (10) spaces each week will be reserved for day passes. •For those months that have a fifth Friday, that Friday will be used as a make-up day for inclement weather or City-issued cancellations.
Additionally, the Art and Yard Sale Program will expand to five (5) additional days a year during “Garage Sales Weekends”.
“Garage Sales Weekend” — New Addition
As previously mentioned, Bell Gardens Municipal Code, Section 5.32.010, identifies criteria for conducting garage sales in the City. Residents may host a garage sale in residentially zoned districts throughout the City without the need to acquire a permit.
Garage sales are allowed during the third weekend of April, June, August, October and December. Staff will expand the day pass option of the Art and Yard Sale Program at Veterans Park to include the third Sunday of April, June, August, October and December in conjunction with Garage Sale Weekend. This will allow residents who are not regular participants of the Program an additional opportunity to participate.
Staff will continue to monitor the success of the Program and adjust the guidelines as needed.
CONCLUSION:
Due to the success of the Program and increased demand, Staff will implement a new program structure starting March 1, 2026, to expand participation in the Program; therefore, it is recommended that the City Council receive and file this report.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no additional fiscal impact for the new program format.
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:Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
FROM:Michael B. O’Kelly, Executive Director
BY:Manuel Carrillo, Director of Finance and Administrative Services Jules Tak, Accounting Manager
SUBJECT:Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Mid-Year Budget Review
DATE:February 23, 2026
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the City Council:
1. Receive, discuss, and file the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 mid-year budget report; and
2. Approve the following additional appropriations for Fiscal Rear 2025-2026:
General Fund (110) $50,000, Prop A (280) & Prop C (281) $58,000, General Fund CIP (115), Measure W (287), TDA Article 3 (340) $413,520; Air Quality Improvement (282) $50,000 and Gas Tax (210) $30,000.
BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION:
On June 9, 2025, the City adopted the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 General Fund Budget.
Revenues were budgeted at $50.06 million, and expenditure was presented at $50.06 million. Compared to Fiscal Year 2024-2025, Fiscal Year 2025-2026 revenues were projected to be higher by $3.82 million.
Adopted Fiscal Year 2025-2026 General Fund expenditures were budgeted to be higher by $3.89 million as compared to Fiscal Year 2024-2025. The major drivers of the budgeted increases were personnel services at $2.3 million; contractual services at $2.9 million; capital outlay at $203,000; and departmental Supplies up by $235,000. These increases were offset by reductions in Transfers out ($663,000) and Vacancy savings ($1.2 million).
Based on actual City operations, revenue and expenditure projections were recalculated to refine the bottom-line estimate for Fiscal Year 2025-2026. After making revenue and expenditure adjustments, the projected change in General Fund, fund balance for Fiscal Year 2025-2026 is a deficit of ($1.98 million). Revenues are projected to be $4.18 million
higher, and expenditures are estimated to be $6.17 million higher than the adopted budget. Below is a detailed discussion of the mid-year adjustments to revenue and expenditures.
Revenue Adjustments
As of February 13, 2026, revenues are projected to be higher by $4.18 million which will bring the projected revenue to $54.24 million. The Bicycle Casino revenues are expected to come in below budget. One area of note is the significant increase in other revenue, this category factors in the reimbursement of General Fund expenditures associated with the Aquatic Center construction. The City of Bell Gardens saw fluctuation in various revenue categories as shown below.
Mid-year revenue adjustments are detailed in the following Table.
Adopted Projected
Increase/
Decrease
Other Revenue $35,000 $6,445,000 $6,410,000
Bicycle Club Fees $19,020,000 $17,013,047 ($2,006,953)
Operating Transfers In $2,915,000 $2,050,000 ($865,000) Add-On Sales Tax (.75%)$3,906,250 $3,646,667 ($259,683) Sales & Use Tax $4,134,869 $4,002,437 ($132,432)
Motor Vehicle In Lieu $6,170,863 $6,698,981 $528,118
Current – Secured Taxes $1,486,701 $1,602,719 $116,018
Building Permits $350,000 $450,000 $100,000
Other Combined Revenue Categories $12,041,384 $12,335,759 $294,375 Total Adjustments $4,184,443
Expenditure Adjustments
Department expenditures were analyzed for actual expenditures through January 31, 2026. The focus of the review was to compare the adopted budget to the projected actual expenditure and to discuss with the Finance Department the additional appropriations that may be needed to maintain services for the remainder of the year. Based on each department's review, no additional General Fund appropriations are needed at this time.
These adjustments include any City Council approved appropriations during the year.
The details of the increases are presented in the PowerPoint presentation.
Adopted Adjusted Forecasted Increase/(Decrease)
Personnel Services $31,854,989 $31,854,989 $29,966,470 ($1,888,519) Department Supplies $1,335,930 $1,335,930 $1,789,149 $453,219 Contractual Services $14,110,961 $14,110,961 $14,015,470 ($95,491) Capital Outlays $2,438,525 $2,438,525 $7,753,758 $5,315,233 Contingency $200,000 $200,000 $200,000 -
Bonds $609,000 $609,000 $209,00 -
Transfers Out $1,899,877 $1,899,877 $1,899,877 -
Vacancy Savings ($2,389,124)($2,389,124)-$2,389,124
Total General Fund $50,060,168 $50,060,168 $56,233,734 $6,173,567
CONCLUSION:
The Fiscal Year 2025-2026, mid-year budget report has been presented. Revenues are projected to be higher by $4.18 million and expenditures are projected to be higher by $6.17 million, which includes the mid-year adjustments and the City Council Approved appropriation during the year bringing the total projected expenditure to $56.23 million.
FISCAL IMPACT:
If approved, the following additional appropriations will be added to the following funds:
General Fund (110) $50,000, Prop A (280) & Prop C (281) $58,000; Gen Fund CIP (115), Measure W (287), TDA Article 3 (340) $413,520, Air Quality Improvement (282) $50,000, and Gas Tax (210) $30,000.
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
Mid-Year Budget Update
Fiscal Year 2025-2026
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Mid-Year Budget Update
FY2025-2026
Historical High
$18,896,139 (FYE 6/30/23)
Historical Low
$9,350,000 (FYE 6/30/12)
$6,728,000 (COVID Year, FYE 6/30/21)
* FY 2025-2026 revenues may be impacted by
Attorney General’s recent action on gaming
regulations.
Bicycle Casino Revenue
FY 2021-2022 to FY 2025-2026
14,218,970
18,986,139 18,174,682
15,369,733
19,020,000
17,013,047
2021-22
Actual
2022-23
Actual
2023-24
Actual
2024-25
Adopted
2025-26
Adopted
2025-26
Projected
Bicycle Casino Revenue
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1 FY2025-2026 General Fund Mid-Year Budget Overview
Projected Revenues $50,060,167
Proposed Expenditures $50,060,167
Projected Surplus $0
Revenues budgeted higher by $3.82 million than prior year -Budgeted Revenues are higher by $3.82 million compared to the prior year.
This is mainly due to the expected increases in Motor Vehicle In-Lieu, Sales and Use Tax, as well as expected Transfer In to the General Fund from Cannabis Operations.
FY 2025-2026 Adopted General Fund Budget
Expenditures budgeted higher by $3.89 million than prior year- -Personnel Services up by $2.3 million
-Contractual Services up by $2.9 million
-Capital Outlays up by $203,000
-Departmental Supplies up by $235,000
-Reduction in Transfers Out ($663,000) and Vacancy Savings ($1.2 million) Pa
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Mid-Year Budget Update
FY2025-2026
Mid-Year Revised Forecast
Adopted
Budget
Revised
Forecast
Over/(Under)
Adopted Budget
Revenues $50,060,167 $54,244,610*$4,184,443
Expenditures $50,060,167 $56,233,734*$6,173,567
Change in Fund Balance $0 ($1,989,124)($1,989,124)
*Includes Final Aquatic Center Expenditures/Grant Reimbursements (15,000,000)
(10,000,000)
(5,000,000)
-
5,000,000
10,000,000
Change in Fund Balance
FY 2015-2016 to FY 2025-2026
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Mid-Year Budget Update
FY 2025-2026
Adopted Budget $50,060,167
Revised Forecast $54,244,610
Over / (Under)
Adopted
$4,184,443
General Fund Revenues
Adopted Forecasted
Increase/
(Decrease)
Other Revenue $35,000 $6,445,000 $6,410,000
Bicycle Club Fees $19,020,000 $17,013,047 ($2,006,953)
Operating Transfers In $2,915,000 $2,050,000 ($865,000) Add-on Sales Tax (.75%)$3,906,250 $3,646,667 ($259,683) Sales & Use Tax $4,134,869 $4,002,437 ($132,432)
Motor Vehicle In Lieu $6,170,863 $6,698,981 $528,118
Current – Secured Taxes $1,486,701 $1,602,719 $116,018
Building Permits $350,000 $450,000 $100,000
Other Combined Revenue Categories $12,041,384 $12,335,759 $294,375 Total Adjustments $4,184,443
Mid-Year Revenue Adjustments
$0
$5,000,000
$10,000,000
$15,000,000
$20,000,000
$25,000,000
$30,000,000
$35,000,000
$40,000,000
$45,000,000
$50,000,000
$55,000,000
$60,000,000
General Fund Revenue
FY 2025 -2026
Adopted Budget Revised Forecast
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Mid-Year Budget Update
FY 2025-2026
Adopted Budget $50,060,167
Forecasted Expenditures $56,233,734
Increase / (Decrease)($6,173,567)
Expenditure Item
Original
Approved
Budget
Adjusted
Budget
Forecasted
Actual
Expenditues
Increase/
(Savings)
Personnel $31,854,989 $31,854,989 $29,966,470 ($1,888,519) Department
Supplies
$1,335,930 $1,335,930 $1,789,149 $453,219
Contractual Services $14,110,961 $14,110,961 $14,015,470 ($95,491) Capital Outlays $2,438,525 $2,438,525 $7,753,758 $5,315,233 Contingency $200,000 $200,000 $200,000 -
Bonds
$609,000 $609,000 $609,.000 -
Transfers Out $1,899,877 $1,899,877 $1,899,877 -
Vacancy Savings ($2,389,124)($2,389,124)-$2,389,214
Total $50,060,168 $50,060,168 $56,233,734
Total Expenditure Increase / (Decrease) Adjusted to Forecasted $6,173,567 Mid-Year Expenditure Adjustments
General Fund Expenditures
$0
$5,000,000
$10,000,000
$15,000,000
$20,000,000
$25,000,000
$30,000,000
$35,000,000
$40,000,000
$45,000,000
$50,000,000
$55,000,000
General Fund Expenditures
FY 2025 -2026
Adopted Budget Forecasted Expenditures
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Mid-Year Budget Update
FY 2025-2026
Category Amount Description
Personnel Costs $1,888,519 Personnel costs are expected to be below budget, but not achieving the budgeted vacancy rate of 7.5%
Vacancy Savings ($2,389,124)Personnel vacancies are expected to be at, or near, budget.
Budgeted vacancy savings of $2.3 million, are based on a 7.5% vacancy rate Department Supplies ($453,219)Increases to General Supplies for PD, Finance and Admin, Public Works and Recreation and Community Services
Contractual Services $95,491 Slight reduction in General Contractual Services Categories across varies City Departments, most of which are expected to not surpass budget.
Capital Outlay ($5,315,233)Capital Outlays Expenses expected to higher than budget, $5.2 million projected Capital Improvement (CIP) Expenditures for the Aquatic Center.
Total ($6,173,566)
General Fund
Projected Changes By Budget Category
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Mid-Year Budget Update
FY 2025-2026
Dept.Amount Description
PW $50,000 Concrete Improvements & Engineering Services (General Fund) PW $58,000 Fixed Route, Recreation Trips, Senior Bus Driver (Funds Prop A 280 & Prop C 281)
PW $413,520 Ford Park Playground (CIP No. 3926) (Funds 115 (GF CIP), 287 (Measure W & 340)
PW $50,000 AQMD Tree Planting (Air Quality Improvement Fund 282) PW $30,000 Traffic Signal Maintenance (Gas Tax Fund 210) Other Funds
Additional Appropriation Request (Continued)
Total $601,520
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Mid-Year Budget Update
FY 2025-2026
Dept.Amount Description
PW $24,148,180 Various City Capital Projects Grants Reimbursable, Fund (115, Capital Project Fund).
PW $10,436,290 Ford Park Aquatic Project, ATP Cycle 5 (General Fund, ATP Cycle 5) PW $762,433 Various Projects (Fund 286, Measure M Local Return) PW $743,240 Various Projects (Fund 285, Measure R Transportation Fund) PW $383,108 Various Projects (Water Fund, Prop C, Gas Tax, Clean Water) Total $36,473,251
Capital Projects Budgeted Carry-Forward from FY2024-25
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General Fund
Projected Fund Balance
Fund Balance at June 30,
2025
$19,893,099
Projected Change in Fund
Balance (FY2025-26)*($1,989,124)
Projected Fund Balance at
June 30, 2026 $17,903,975
*Includes Final Aquatic
Center Expenditure/Reimb
Nonspendable
(Water Fund
Receivables &
Others),
$7,640,240Assigned/Unassigned
(Leave Accruals,
General Obligations &
Contingency),
$10,263,735
PROJECTED FUND BALANCE AT
JUNE 30, 2026
$-
$5,000,000
$10,000,000
$15,000,000
$20,000,000
$25,000,000
$30,000,000
$35,000,000
$40,000,000
2018-19
Actual
2019-20
Actual
2020-21
Actual
2021-22
Actual
2022-23
Actual
2023-24
Actual
2024-25
Adopted
2024-25
Projected
2025-26
Adopted
2025-26
Projected
Fund Balance
FY 2018-2019 to FY 2025-2026
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FY 2026-2027 Tentative Budget Calendar
Milestone Date Action
Thursday
March 19, 2026
Finance Department delivers budget worksheets to City
Departments
Thursday
April 2, 2026
City Departments submit draft operating and CIP budget
worksheets to Finance
The week of
April 6-April 9, 2026
Finance Department meets with each City Department to review budget worksheets
The week of
April 20-April 23,
2026
Finance Department delivers departmental budget request to the City ManagerPa
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FY 2026-2027 Tentative Budget Calendar
Milestone Date Action
The week of
April 27-April 30,
2026
City Manager reviews departmental budget request
The week of
May 5-May 14, 2026
Budget and strategic planning workshop with the City
Council, City Manager, and Department Heads
Monday
May 11, 2026
Council Study Sessions – Finance presents Draft Budget
Wednesday
May 13, 2026
Community Budget Workshop (Ross Hall)
Monday
June 8, 2026
Operating and capital improvement budget presentation and budget adoption
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