Project Name: LTS 2026 - Bell Gardens Aquatics
2 2. Program. As an inducement to the Foundation to make the Grant, the Grantee has previously submitted a written proposal (the “Proposal”) to the Foundation, which Proposal includes a description of the Program. The Grantee acknowledges that the Grant is expressly made in reliance on the Proposal and a review of financial information and a final budget submitted by the Grantee. Accordingly, the Grantee shall notify the Foundation immediately, in writing, of any material change in the facts set forth in the Proposal or in any other information or document submitted to the Foundation. Without the advance written consent of the Foundation, the Grantee shall not expend any part of the Grant or interest thereon whether for any purpose or item in excess of the amount budgeted for such purpose or item on the final budget for the Program submitted by the Grantee to the Foundation.
3. Conditions to Grant. Except as such conditions may be waived in writing by the Foundation, the Foundation’s obligations to make the Grant and, if the Grant is payable in installments, to pay each installment thereof shall be subject to each of the following conditions:
(a) All necessary approvals and consents to the payment of the Grant shall, to the satisfaction of the Foundation, have been obtained and not revoked. (b) No legal, administrative, or other proceeding shall be pending that questions the legality of the Grant.
(c) The conditions set forth on Schedule C attached hereto shall have been fully satisfied.
4. Covenants of Grantee. The Grantee covenants with the Foundation as follows:
(a) To repay any portion of the Grant which is not used for the purposes of the Grant. (b) To submit to the Foundation full and complete at least periodic reports, not less frequently than annual, on the manner in which the Grant is spent and the progress made in accomplishing the purposes of the Grant.
(c) To maintain records of receipts and expenditures and to make its books and records relating to the Grant available to the Foundation at reasonable times. (d) Not to use any of the Grant (i) to carry on propaganda, or otherwise to attempt, to influence legislation (within the meaning of Section 4945(d)(1) of the Code), (ii) to influence the outcome of any specific public election, or to carry on, directly or indirectly, any voter registration drive (within the meaning of Section 4945(d)(2) of the Code), (iii) to make any grant which does not comply with the requirements of Section 4945(d)(3) or (4) of the Code or (iv) to undertake any activity for any purpose other than one specified in Section 170(c)(2)(B) of the Code. (e) In the performance of this Agreement, the expenditure of the Grant and the organization, implementation and conduct of the Program (i) to comply with all applicable laws, regulations and union agreements to which it is bound and (ii) not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, creed, religion, citizenship, ancestry, or political affiliation.
(f) Without the prior written approval of the Foundation, and except for salaries specifically identified in the Proposal, not to transfer or pay, whether or not for value, any portion of the Grant to (i) any person or entity who directly or indirectly controls, is controlled by or is under common control with the Grantee, (ii) any person or entity who is an officer, employee, partner or trustee of, or serves in a similar capacity with respect to, the Grantee or (iii) any person or entity of which
Project Name: LTS 2026 - Bell Gardens Aquatics
3 the Grantee or any of its officers, employees, partners or trustees is the beneficial owner of 5% or more of the equity interests therein.
(g) If the Grantee discovers that any of the Representations made by it in Section 5 below were not correct or should any facts change such that any of the representations made are no longer accurate, to provide the Foundation immediate written notice of the same. (h) If any losses, injuries, or damages are sustained by or to any person or property, relating to the program being funded under this Agreement, to immediately notify the Foundation in writing regarding the same.
5. Representations of Grantee. The Grantee represents and warrants to the Foundation that:
(a) The Grantee is exempt from federal income tax under IRS Section 501(c)(3) and it is not a private foundation as defined in IRS Section 509(a). The Grantee further represents and warrants that (a) the facts supporting the Grantee’s tax-exempt and public charity status under IRS Sections 501(c)(3) and 509(a) have not changed since the issuance of its IRS determination letter, (b) it is not aware of any facts which could result in a change in its tax-exempt and public charity status under IRS Sections 501(c)(3) or 509(a) or relevant state law, or the imposition of excise taxes under IRS Section 4958 dealing with “intermediate sanctions,” (c) the receipt of the grant funds will not change the Grantee’s public charity status under IRS Section 509(a) and (d) that the Grantee does not support or conduct, directly or indirectly, violence or terrorist activities of any kind. Such representations and warranties shall continue through the completion date of this Grant.
(b) This Agreement has been duly authorized, executed and delivered by the Grantee, and constitutes a legal, valid, and binding obligation of the Grantee for the benefit of the Foundation.
(c) All proceedings legally required to be taken by the Grantee in connection with the authorization of this Agreement and of the transactions related thereto, and all approvals, authorizations, consents and other orders of public boards or bodies as may be legally required to be obtained by the Grantee prior to the date hereof with respect to all or any of such matters, have been taken or obtained.
(d) The execution and delivery of this Agreement by the Grantee, and the performance by the Grantee of its obligations hereunder, do not (i) violate any provisions of the Articles of Incorporation, Bylaws or other governing instrument of the Grantee, (ii) violate any law, rule or regulation having applicability to the Grantee or any order, writ, judgment, decree, determination or award to which the Grantee is a party or (iii) result in the breach of or constitute a default under any agreement, lease or instrument to which the Grantee is a party or by which the Grantee is bound.
(e) No audit, investigation, proceeding or other inquiry is pending by the Internal Revenue Service, the Franchise Tax Board or the Attorney General of any state with respect to the Grantee or any affiliated organization, and no legal, administrative or other proceeding is pending that questions the legality of the Grant, except as is disclosed on Schedule C attached hereto. (f) Grantee acknowledges that it has a written policy that addresses its commitment to keep children safe from sexual abuse by preventing, recognizing, and responding to situations both on and off the playing field that in any way compromises their safety.
6. Publicity. Grantee agrees to use its best efforts to promote its grantee/grantor relationship with the Foundation through social media platforms including, but not limited to, Facebook,
Project Name: LTS 2026 - Bell Gardens Aquatics
4 X (formerly known as Twitter), and YouTube. Grantee agrees to provide name and email of organization’s board members and key staff. The Foundation will only use this information to communicate about its activities and will not share this information with others. All promotional and advertising materials, including announcements, brochures, publications, films, videotapes, exhibitions and visual materials, produced or authorized by the Grantee relating to the Program shall, to the extent directed by the Foundation, give credit to the Foundation at least as prominent as that given any other person, organization or entity which makes a grant or contribution of funds to the Grantee. The Foundation shall have the right, but not the obligation, to review in advance and approve the contents of all press announcements issued by the Grantee, the planning of all press events, and the contents of all promotional and advertising materials relating to the Grant and the Program. The Foundation may, in its discretion, also publish and distribute promotional materials relating to the Program and the Grant. The publication of such materials may include, but not be limited to, the Foundation’s website and social media (e.g. Facebook and X). The Grantee shall have no right to use any symbol, logo, trade name or trademark of the Foundation without the Foundation's advance written consent.
7. Reports and Records. The Grantee agrees to submit such reports, in addition to the reports required under Paragraph 4(b) hereof, as may be requested by the Foundation, in such form as the Foundation may prescribe at reasonable intervals, relating to the Grantee's performance of or ability to fulfill its obligations under this Agreement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Grantee shall timely submit such reports as are described on Schedule D attached hereto. The Grantee shall maintain complete, accurate, and current records of all income and expenses relating to the Program and the Grant. During the term of this Agreement and at any time within five (5) years thereafter, the Grantee shall maintain and make such records available upon request to the Foundation for review, copying and audit. In addition, the Grantee agrees to cooperate fully with the Foundation, and to allow the Foundation and any person designated by it full and complete access to the facilities, activities and operations of the Grantee, for the purpose of auditing, monitoring and evaluating the Program, the Grant and the compliance of the Grantee with the terms and conditions of this Agreement.
8. Termination. The Foundation shall have the right to terminate this Agreement and the Grant at its sole and absolute discretion, with or without cause. Upon termination of this Agreement by the Foundation, the Foundation shall be relieved from making any further payments to the Grantee in regard to the Grant. In the event the termination is pursuant to a determination by the Foundation that the Grantee (a) has misrepresented any material fact or supplied false or misleading material information to the Foundation in the Proposal or otherwise in regard to this Agreement or the Grant, (b) has diverted any payments made under this Agreement to a purpose other than that permitted hereunder, (c) has failed to maintain or provide any material records or reports required to be maintained or provided hereunder or (d) has terminated, abandoned, cancelled or substantially altered, or is likely to terminate, abandon, cancel or substantially alter, the Program, the Foundation may require the Grantee to refund any or all payments of the Grant heretofore made. The foregoing remedies of the Foundation are in addition to any other remedies provided by law, and all such remedies shall be cumulative and not exclusive.
9. No Liability. The Grantee shall, to the fullest extent permitted by law, indemnify, defend and hold the Foundation (along with its officers, directors, employees and agents) harmless from and against any and all claims, liabilities, losses, and expenses (including reasonable attorneys’ fees) directly, indirectly, wholly, or partially arising from or in connection with any act or omission of the Grantee, its employees, or agents, in any manner arising out of or incident to the performance of this Agreement or the planning, arranging, implementing, sponsoring or conducting of the Program or any other program or activity by the Grantee. IN NO CASE SHALL THE FOUNDATION BE LIABLE TO THE GRANTEE OR ANY THIRD PARTY FOR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES. The Foundation shall have
Project Name: LTS 2026 - Bell Gardens Aquatics
5 no liability for any debts, liabilities, deficits or cost overruns of the Grantee. It is expressly understood by the parties that no director, member, officer, employee or other representative of the Foundation shall incur any financial responsibility or liability of any kind or nature whatsoever in connection with this Agreement or any subsequent agreement between the parties regarding the subject matter hereof. The parties agree that the liability of the Foundation hereunder shall be limited to the payment of the Grant pursuant to the terms and conditions of this Agreement. Any contracts entered into or other obligations or liabilities incurred by the Grantee in connection with the Program or otherwise relating to this Agreement shall be the sole responsibility of the Grantee, and the Foundation shall have no obligation or liability whatsoever thereunder or with respect thereto. The Grantee covenants that all contracts to which it shall become a party in regard to the Program and/or the Grant shall include the following clause:
“It is expressly agreed and understood that neither the LA84 Foundation (the “Foundation”) nor any director, member, officer, employee or other representative of the Foundation shall incur any financial responsibility or liability of any kind or nature whatsoever in connection with this Agreement, and that the foregoing provisions concerning financial responsibility or liability shall be expressly included in and made a part of any and all agreements between the parties subsequent to this Agreement.”
10. Insurance. The Grantee represents and warrants that (a) it is, and will continue to be, adequately insured against all risks, including such risks as would be covered by fire and property damage, worker's compensation, automobile and comprehensive general liability insurance, and professional liability with respect to the conduct of the Program and all other programs and activities of the Grantee and (b) the premises and facilities of third parties where the Grantee conducts and will conduct its programs and activities also are and will be so adequately insured, except as expressly set forth on Schedule C attached hereto. Schedule C shall serve as applicable insurance and additional insurance provisions that the Grantee shall provide to the LA 84 Foundation. As constituted by this agreement, the Grantee shall furnish the Fund the policy or policies of insurance or applicable certificate of insurance or either written evidence satisfactory to the Fund, evidencing the insurance carried by or otherwise benefiting the Grantee the requirements set forth in Schedule C. The Grantee covenants that it will cause the Fund to be added as an additional insured on all policies of insurance carried by the Grantee.
11. Other Provisions. This Agreement and the Proposal together constitute the entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof, and the provisions hereof and thereof have superseded any and all prior and contemporaneous agreements or understandings relating to the matters specifically addressed herein or therein. Failure or inability of either party to enforce any right hereunder shall not waive any right with respect to any other or future rights or occurrences, nor shall waiver of any condition or right in any instance be deemed a waiver of any condition or right in any other instance. If any legal action or other proceeding is brought for the enforcement of this Agreement, or because of an alleged or actual dispute, breach, default or misrepresentation in connection with any of the provisions of this Agreement, the successful or prevailing party shall be entitled to recover reasonable attorney's fees and other costs incurred in such action or proceeding in addition to any other relief to which it may be entitled. This Agreement and the Grantee's rights, duties and obligations hereunder may not be assigned by the Grantee without the prior written consent of the Foundation. Any attempt at assignment shall be void and a material breach of this Agreement by the Grantee. This Agreement has been negotiated, executed, and delivered and will be performed in the State of California and shall be governed by and construed in accordance with its laws. The Schedules attached hereto are incorporated herein by reference and made a part of this Agreement as if fully set forth herein.
Project Name: LTS 2026 - Bell Gardens Aquatics
6 12. Amendments and Modifications. This Agreement may be amended or modified only by a written instrument executed by the Foundation and by the Grantee. Notwithstanding the foregoing, modifications to the scope of the Program, alterations in the funding schedule, revisions to the Proposal and other changes to the terms and conditions of this Agreement set forth on the Schedules attached hereto may be effectuated by the substitution of replacement Schedule(s), provided that such replacement Schedule(s) are executed by both the Foundation and the Grantee.
13. Survival. The obligations set forth in Sections 7, 9, 11, 14, 15 and 16 shall survive the termination of this Agreement.
14. Notice. All notices, requests or consents required or permitted under this Agreement shall be in writing and shall be given to the other party by personal delivery, overnight delivery, or regular certified mail, sent to such party’s address as is set forth below such party’s signature hereto or to any other address as any party to whom notice is to be given may have previously furnished to the other as set forth in this provision. Each such notice, request or consent shall be deemed effective upon receipt.
15. Confidentiality. The parties acknowledge that the Grantee, in connection with this Agreement, may acquire certain Confidential Information (as defined below) related to the Foundation.
Grantee shall not divulge or disclose, without the Foundation’s prior written approval, nor use for the benefit of any person or entity other than the Foundation, any Confidential Information that may become known to the Grantee by reason of this Agreement or otherwise. Grantee further agrees to prevent its agents and employees from divulging or disclosing any such Confidential Information or from using such Confidential Information for the benefit of any person or entity other than the Foundation. “Confidential Information” of the Foundation shall include, but not be limited to, the existing or future services, products, operations, management, business, financial information, goals, profits, billings, referral, research services, strategies, technology, trademarks, know-how, member lists and objectives of the Foundation, except to the extent that such release of such information was authorized by the Foundation or such information is generally available or known to the public or becomes known to the public through means other than a breach of this Agreement or by any person or entity having an obligation to keep such information confidential. All information which the Grantee acquires or becomes acquainted with during the term of this Agreement, whether developed by Grantee or by others, which the Grantee has a reasonable basis to believe to be Confidential Information, or which is treated by the Foundation as being Confidential Information, shall be presumed to be Confidential Information.
16. Independent Contractor. The Grantee is an independent contractor, and nothing herein shall be construed to create an employment, joint employment, partnership, joint venture, agency, or any other kind of relationship between Grantee and the Foundation. In no event shall the Grantee or its employees, independent contractors, or agents, if any, be considered employees of the Foundation. The Grantee shall not have, nor shall the Grantee claim or imply that the Grantee has, any authority to enter into any obligation on behalf of, or binding upon, the Foundation. The Grantee is an independent contractor and is solely responsible for all taxes, withholdings, and other statutory or contractual obligations of any sort, including, but not limited to, workers’ compensation insurance. The Grantee and its employees are not eligible for, and shall not participate in, any employee pension, health, welfare, or other fringe benefit plan, of the Foundation.
17. Signatures. This Agreement may be executed in counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original, but all of which, taken together, shall constitute one and the same agreement.
In the event that any signature is delivered by e-mail delivery of a “pdf” format data file, such signature shall create a valid and binding obligation of the party executing (or on whose behalf such signature is executed) with the same force and effect as if such “pdf” signature page were an original thereof.
Project Name: LTS 2026 - Bell Gardens Aquatics
7 18. Dispute Resolution. Any controversy or claim arising out of or relating to this Agreement, or the breach thereof, shall be settled by arbitration before an experienced arbitrator licensed to practice law in California in accordance with the Commercial Arbitration Rules of the American Arbitration Association (the “Association”) in Los Angeles, California. The arbitration decision shall be final and binding upon the parties and may be entered as a judgement in any court of competent jurisdiction. In addition to the aware of any other remedy or relief, the prevailing party in any such arbitration proceeding shall be entitled to his or its reasonable attorneys’ fees and costs (including, without limitation, arbitrators’ fees, Association fees and related fees) incurred in connection with such proceeding.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Grant Agreement on ___________________________, 2026.
GRANTEE:
City of Bell Gardens
7100 Garfield Ave
Bell Gardens, CA 90201
BY: ________________________________
Manuel Acosta
Acting City Manager
FOUNDATION:
LA84 FOUNDATION
2141 West Adams Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90018
BY: __________________________________
Renata Simril
President & CEO
Project Name: LTS 2026 - Bell Gardens Aquatics
8 SCHEDULE A
DESCRIPTION OF PROGRAM AND PURPOSES:
The purpose of this Grant to City of Bell Gardens is for the Learn to Swim Program.
The program description and budget are attached hereto and incorporated herein by this reference.
GRANT TITLE: LTS 2026 - Bell Gardens Aquatics
NAME OF ORGANIZATION: City of Bell Gardens
AMOUNT AWARDED: $25,000
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION:
Requested funds will be used to offset the cost of swimming lessons for youth within Bell Gardens.
The City of Bell Gardens Parks and Recreation Department will partner with the local Bell Gardens elementary in delivering the Learn to Swim program. The program will take place during the school day for six weeks with sessions being held twice a week, and will be completely free for youth to participate. The grant will support 597 youth participating in the Learn to Swim Program.
BUDGET SUMMARY
LA84
Foundation
Scholarships $20,000
Equipment $5,000
Total $25,000
Project Name: LTS 2026 - Bell Gardens Aquatics
9 SCHEDULE B
The funding schedule set forth below constitutes an estimate of the Grantee's need for funds based upon the Proposal. The amounts and timing of the payment of installments of the Grant as set forth in such funding schedule are subject to change, in the discretion of the Foundation, in the following circumstances:
1. Reports required by Paragraph 7 of the Grant Agreement and/or by Schedule D attached thereto are not submitted in a timely manner or with all required information.
2. The Program is modified, enhanced, reduced or otherwise altered in any substantive manner without the prior written approval of the Foundation.
3. The Foundation determines that cost savings may be achieved through utilization of other resources or the Foundation's purchase requisition procedures for equipment and other items required by the Program.
4. The Grant is terminated pursuant to Paragraph 8 of the Grant Agreement.
FUNDING SCHEDULE:
Amount Date
$25,000 Upon Grant Execution
* An initial advance payment can be made at the discretion of Foundation Staff in consultation with grantee. Subsequent payments will be made after the grantee submission of Progress Reports to be reviewed and approved by Foundation prior to payment authorizations. The total grant funds released based on Grantee submitted Progress Reports may be less than the approved grant, but in no case shall the total payment exceed $25,000.
BANK(s) IN WHICH GRANT FUNDS ARE TO BE HELD:
ACCOUNT #: (insert information here)
BANK NAME AND ADDRESS:
(insert information here)
MAIL CHECK TO:
City of Bell Gardens
c/o Manuel Acosta, Acting City Manager
7100 Garfield Ave
Bell Gardens, CA 90201
Project Name: LTS 2026 - Bell Gardens Aquatics
10 SCHEDULE C
ADDITIONAL CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO GRANT:
INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS GRANT
Grantee shall furnish the foundation with the following:
Coverage shall be at least as broad as:
Commercial General Liability Coverage
•Insurance Services Office (occurrence form CG 0001).
•Minimum Limits: $1,000,000 per occurrence / $2,000,000 in the aggregate for bodily injury, personal injury, and property damage. Coverage shall include abuse and molestation coverage with minimum limits of $1,000,000 per occurrence / $2,000,000.
Commercial Professional Liability / Social Services Professional Coverage •Minimum Limits: $1,000,000 per occurrence/$2,000,000 policy aggregate.
Worker’s Compensation
•Worker’s Compensation as required by California law and Employer’s Liability coverage. •Minimum Limits: Employer’s Liability $1,000,000 per accident for bodily injury or disease.
Other Insurance Provisions
The general liability and automobile liability policies are to contain, or be endorsed to contain, the following provisions:
•LA84 Foundation, its officers, directors and employees, are to be covered as additional insureds with respect to liability arising out of grantee operations
•Insurance shall be primary insurance as respects LA84 Foundation, its officers, directors, and employees. •For any claims the Grantee’s insurance shall waive all rights of subrogation against any policy held by LA84 Foundation, its officers, directors, and employees.
•Each insurance policy required by this clause shall be endorsed to state that coverage shall not be cancelled by either party, except after thirty (30) days’ prior written notice has been given to LA84 Foundation. •An Additional Insured endorsement is to be provided on the Automobile Liability insurance (using ISO form CA 2048 or insurance company equivalent).
Acceptability of Insurers
Insurance is to be placed with insurers with a current A. M. Best’s rating of no less than A VI.
Verification of Coverage.
The Grantee shall furnish LA84 Foundation with original certificates and amendatory endorsements effecting coverage, additional insured status and limits required by this clause. An additional insured endorsement, Insurance Services Office form CG2026, or insurance company equivalent, shall be attached to the certificate of general liability insurance.
All certificates and endorsements are to be received and approved by LA84 Foundation before Grantee will receive support. The LA84 Foundation reserves the right to require complete, certified copies of all insurance policies, including endorsements effecting the coverage required by these specifications at any time.
PENDING LITIGATION AND OTHER PROCEEDINGS:
Grantee warrants that there is no pending litigation or other proceedings.
UNINSURED RISKS:
Grantee further represents and warrants that there are no uninsured risks the occurrence of which would have a material adverse effect on the program.
Project Name: LTS 2026 - Bell Gardens Aquatics
11 SCHEDULE D
REPORTS TO BE FURNISHED:
Final Report Narrative and Expense Report 7/30/2027
** Final Report must be a complete review and report of the program including all statistical data, evaluation results and a detailed accounting of grant expenditures. Final Report forms are available on the Foundation grantee portal ( www.grantinterface.com/home/logon) . Failure to submit a final report will impact the organization’s ability to obtain a grant in the future.
Project Name: LTS 2026 - Bell Gardens Aquatics
12 SCHEDULE E
OTHER TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
The LA84 Foundation shall have the right to approve all publicity in advance of publication and Grantee shall submit to the Foundation any proposed materials for approval prior to their release.
All temporary or permanent signage shall be recommended and approved by Foundation.
Foundation and Grantee shall mutually agree on proper name recognition for Foundation on equipment purchased with grant funds.
The Foundation may, in its discretion, also publish and distribute promotional materials relating to the Program and the Grant. The publication of such materials may include, but not be limited to, the Foundation’s website and social media tools (e.g., Facebook and X).
CITY OF BELL GARDENS
OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TO:Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
FROM:Manuel Acosta, Acting City Manager
BY: Daisy Gomez, City Clerk
SUBJECT:Local Commission Appointment List
DATE:August 24, 2026
RECOMMENDATION:
It is staff's recommendation that the City Council review the Commissions Appointments List, 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:
Manuel Acosta, Acting City Manager
Stephanie Vasquez, City Attorney
Manual Carrillo, Director of Finance and Administrative Services
Updated: 8/11/2026
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 Stephanie Ramos Barcena 8/10/2026
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
Javier Garay Barcena 8/10/2026
Katelynn Cabrera Chavez 4/28/2025
Ainslee Preciado De La Rosa 2/24/2025
Karla Acosta Guillen
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 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:Manuel Acosta, Acting 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 ATP Cycle 6 - Bell Gardens Complete Streets Improvements, Phase 2 (CIP No. 3938)
DATE:August 24, 2026
RECOMMENDATION:
It is staff’s recommendation that the City Council:
1. Approve the plans and specifications for the ATP Cycle 6 - Bell Gardens Complete Streets Improvements, Phase 2 (CIP No. 3938);
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 ATP Cycle 6 - Bell Gardens Complete Streets Improvements, Phase 2 (the “Project”). The Project scope of work includes constructing complete streets improvements at various locations throughout the City of Bell Gardens (“City”), including Specht Avenue, Live Oak Street, Priory Street, Purdy Avenue, Gephart Avenue, Perry Road, and Hannon Street. Improvements include the installation of high- visibility crosswalks, pedestrian walkways, curb extensions, a High-Intensity Activated Crosswalk (HAWK) beacon, Class III bicycle routes, ADA-compliant curb ramps, raised crosswalks, speed humps, shortened pedestrian crossings, longitudinal pavement striping, and LED flashing stop signs on raised median islands in residential street intersections. The Project is intended to improve pedestrian and bicyclist safety, enhance accessibility, calm traffic, and provide safer multimodal travel throughout the Project corridors.
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 one hundred thirty-five (135) working days from the effective date of the Notice to Proceed issued by the City. This includes up to sixty
(60) days for procurement and seventy-five (75) days for construction. Construction may begin after sixty (60) days of the procurement period.
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 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 August 24, 2026
•Publish Bid August 27, 2026
•Mandatory Pre-Bid/Site Walk
at the Public Works Yard September 9, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. •Last Day for Questions/RFI September 16, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. •Bid Opening September 23, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.
•Anticipated Award of Contract October 26, 2026, City Council meeting •Pre-construction Meeting November 2026
•Construction-Procurement Phase November 2026 – April 2027 (Tentative) •Construction Begins May 2027 (Tentative)
DESIGN COMMUNITY:
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 FY 2026/27 Capital Improvement Budget includes a total of $2,609,000 in Active Transportation Program (ATP) funds, consisting of $2,295,920 allocated for construction and $313,080 allocated for construction engineering. The engineer’s estimate for construction is $1,725,000.
APPROVED ELECTRONICALLY BY:
Manuel Acosta, Acting City Manager
Stephanie Vasquez, City Attorney
Manuel Carrillo, Director of Finance and Administrative Services
NOTICE INVITING SEALED BID
FOR
ATP CYCLE 6- BELL GARDENS COMPLETE
STREETS IMPROVEMENTS, PHASE 2
CIP NO. 3938
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 11:00 a.m. on September 23, 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 September 16, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. PST.
Attendance at a pre-bid meeting is mandatory and will be held on September 9, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at the Public Works Yard, 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 bid 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 7-3.2 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. Contractors 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 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 Bid forms or copies thereof in conformance with the Instructions to Bidders and submitted in a sealed envelope plainly marked on the outside as follows:
ATP CYCLE 6- BELL GARDENS COMPLETE STREETS IMPROVEMENTS, PHASE 2 C.I.P. No. 3938
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, 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 sixty (60) days.
The Project schedule shall be one hundred thirty-five (135) working days from the issuance of the Notice to Proceed. This includes up to sixty (60) days for procurement and seventy-five (75) days for construction. Construction may begin after sixty (60) days of the procurement period.
The AGENCY clarifies that all subcontractors, including surveyors and geotechnical engineers as defined by the DIR, are required to be listed if the bid line item total exceeds
0.05% of the total bid price. To clarify, it is the bid line item total the Agency reviews, not the actual sub-contract between the Prime and sub-contractor. The evaluation of sub- contractors listed is not completed at the bid opening, but during the bid analysis that follows. Failure to comply will result in the Agency determining the bid as non-responsive.
The engineer’s estimate for the project is $1,725,000.
BY ORDER OF the City of Bell Gardens, California.
Dated: August 24, 2026
CITY OF BELL GARDENS
OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
FROM: Manuel Acosta, Acting City Manager
BY: Bernardo Iniguez, Director of Public Works/Facilities Douglas Benash, P.E., City Engineer
SUBJECT: Consideration of Approval of the Installation of Edge Lines on Scout Avenue and Park Lane from Garfield Avenue to Clara Street
DATE: August 24, 2026
RECOMMENDATION:
It is staff’s recommendation that the City Council authorize the installation of edge lines on Scout Avenue and Park Lane from Garfield Avenue to Clara Street.
BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION:
The Public Works Department is requesting the installation of edge lines on Scout Avenue and Park Lane due to the newly constructed John Anson Ford Park Dreamers Aquatics Center (“Aquatics Center”). The opening of the Aquatics Center has changed traffic patterns and pedestrian activity near Ford Park. Staff evaluated the addition of white edge lines on Park Lane and Scout Avenue to address the new pedestrian and traffic impacts, and concerns regarding perceived speeding activity on this street segment.
This block has single-family and multi-family homes on the north side of the street, as shown in Figure 1. The roadway width is approximately 40 feet wide from curb to curb. Scout Avenue and Park Lane are east-west local residential streets providing one lane of travel in each direction with a prima facia and posted speed limit of 30 miles per hour (MPH).
Traffic volumes were recorded from July 14, 2026, through July 16, 2026. The results of the average daily traffic volume count over a three-day period show that on Park Lane, between Gilliland Avenue and Gotham Street, there is an average daily traffic (ADT) volume of 3,116 vehicles; on Scout Avenue between Gotham Street and Ramish Avenue, there is an ADT volume of 2,939 vehicles, and on Scout Avenue between Ramish Avenue and Emil Avenue, there is an ADT volume of 2,551 vehicles.
Figure 1 - Aerial View of Scout Avenue and Park Lane.
The recorded speed profile measurements for the combined directions of eastbound and westbound on Scout Avenue and Park Lane are summarized below:
• Park Lane between Gilliland Avenue and Gotham Street: the 85th percentile was 31 MPH for three days.
• Scout Avenue between Gotham Street and Ramish Avenue: the 85th percentile was 26 MPH on July 14 and July 16, 2026, and was 27 MPH on July 15, 2026. • Scout Avenue between Ramish Avenue and Emil Avenue: the 85th percentile was 28 MPH for three days.
In addition, a collision history review for both streets was completed. From March 1, 2023, to March 31, 2026, there were three (3) collisions on Scout Avenue and Park Lane. Two (2) collisions took place in 2023, and one (1) collision took place in 2025.
Due to the volume of pedestrian activity and crossing patterns in and around the Aquatics Center, the City Engineer recommends the installation of white edge lines to enhance pedestrian visibility and roadway delineation. Edge lines are visual white lines that narrow travel lanes by using painted white lines on the roadway to reduce the width of travel lanes to encourage drivers to naturally slow down. The narrower the street, the more drivers tend to slow down.
On August 4, 2026, the Traffic and Safety Commission discussed the item and approved for City Council’s consideration the installation of edge lines on Scout Avenue and Park Lane from Garfield Avenue to Clara Street.
CONCLUSION:
If approved, staff will install edge lines on Scout Avenue and Park Lane from Garfield Avenue and Clara Street. Additionally, staff will continue monitoring traffic along this segment to determine whether additional measures are warranted once further assessments are completed.
FISCAL IMPACT:
The estimated cost for the installation of edge lines is $1,000. Sufficient funds are available in the City’s FY 26/27 Street Maintenance Budget.
APPROVALS:
Manuel Acosta, Acting City Manager
Stephanie Vasquez, City Attorney
Manuel Carrillo, Director of Finance and Administrative Services
EXHIBIT 1 – PROPOSED LOCATION
EDGE LINES ALONG SCOUT AVENUE AND PARK LANE
Roadway Segment for Proposed White Edge Lines
CITY OF BELL GARDENS
OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TO:Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
FROM:Manuel Acosta, Acting City Manager
BY:Bernardo Iniguez, Director of Public Works/Facilities Elizabeth Nava, Director of Recreation and Community Services SUBJECT:Discussion Regarding Holiday Decorations
DATE:August 24, 2026
RECOMMENDATION:
It is staff's recommendation that the City Council provide staff with direction regarding additional holiday decoration options throughout the City.
BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION:
On January 26, 2026, staff provided the City Council with an assessment of potential holiday decoration expansion alternatives. On February 9, 2026, the City Council directed staff to proceed with procurement of the new holiday banner poles with an overhead holiday banner on Florence Avenue, east of Eastern Avenue.
On April 13, 2026, the City entered into an Energy Services Agreement with ABM Solutions, LLC (ABM), for the Phase 2 Energy Project (the “Energy Project”). As part of the Energy Project, ABM will also be installing two (2) new 28-foot holiday banner poles along Florence Avenue, east of Eastern Avenue.
Holiday Banner Pole Update
Based on the most recent schedule provided by ABM, the holiday banner pole timeline is as follows:
October 30, 2026 – Banner pole shipping date
November 6, 2026 – Banner pole delivery date
November 9 – 20, 2026 – Banner pole installation
Rendering for illustration purposes only.
LED Lighted Holiday Banner (for Garfield and Florence Locations) Staff inquired about skyline banner/decoration costs for the holiday banner poles across Florence Avenue and across Garfield Avenue. The cost will vary depending on the style and features selected; however, it is approximately $11,000 - $15,000 for materials and labor for both streets. This estimate includes generic verbiage for the LED signs. Custom language, including adding “City of Bell Gardens,” is available; however, staff is inquiring as to whether that will still be available for this year’s holiday season.
Additional Holiday Decoration Options
Staff also researched options to add uniformed holiday decorations throughout the City. Some of the elements include City facility décor, City owned center median pole décor, and entry monument sign décor.
City Facility Décor
In addition to City Hall and the large Holiday tree located at the Bell Gardens Veterans Park Memorial (that are decorated every year for the holiday season), the City has 5 prominent facilities that may also be considered for decorations. These facilities include: The Dreamers Aquatics Center; Ford Park Recreation and Community Services Administration Building; Veterans Park – Ross Hall Building; Neighborhood Youth Center; and the Public Works Administration Building and Yard.
Staff researched the approximate cost to include decorations similar to those seen at City Hall for each additional facility. Those elements include:
1. Warm C9 perimeter (string lights) along the roof of the building on the sides that are visible from the street;
2. One large focal decorative piece (60” LED lit wreath or bow);
3. LED string lights wrapped around the trees that are near the entrance of each facility;
4. Poinsettias in the planters near the entrance of the buildings (city staff); and
5. Holiday trees inside the lobby of each facility (city staff).
City-Owned Center Median Poles
The City owns 50 center median poles that run along the main corridors of the City. Staff researched the cost of labor and materials to wrap each pole with medium density garland and a 24” bow or wreath.
Monument Signs
There are a total of 11 entry monuments at 6 locations in the City which can be decorated with string lights around the trees and along the monument wall that can include a decorative feature such as a large wreath or bow.
Option to Purchase or Rent/Lease Decorations
The City has the option to either purchase or rent/lease the decorations. The benefit of purchasing is that costs are lower in the long run but renting the decorations costs less initially. Both options will require additional labor costs for installation.
Approximate Cost (including installation labor) Breakdown The cost for the purchase or rent/lease decorations and professional installation will vary depending on the decorations chosen and length of the agreement. The total cost for purchasing the decorations (including installation) is estimated to increase the initial year’s cost by approximately $12,000 - $19,250 for the first year.
The labor costs for installation of the decorations are the same for both purchased or rented/leased decorations.
An estimated breakdown of the various costs per site and element is as follows:
Decoration Element Material and Labor Cost
1. City Hall Décor $9750
2. Holiday Tree (VP Memorial)$5800
3. 2 – Skyline LED Banners $11,000 - $15,000
4. 5 City Facilities $2,600 - $8,500
5. Center Median Poles $7,500
6. Entry Monument Signs $10,000 - $12,000
Total Estimated Rent/Lease Cost $50,650 - $58,550*
Total Estimated Purchase Cost $62,650 - $69,900*
Should the City Council direct staff to purchase the decorations, the City would only be responsible for paying for the labor associated with installation for future years. *These costs are estimates only. If Council directs staff to pursue third-party installation, a Request for Proposals will be issued and exact costs will be brought back to Council for consideration at that time.
CONCLUSION:
Should the City Council direct staff to expand the City's holiday decorations, staff will proceed with preparing a request for proposals for such decorations and installation.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Costs for any expanded holiday decorations would be determined based on a final scope.
APPROVED ELECTRONICALLY BY:
Manuel Acosta, Acting 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 Council Members
FROM: Manuel Acosta, Acting City Manager
BY: Manuel Carrillo, Director of Finance and Administrative Services Jules Tak, Accounting Manager
SUBJECT: Discussion Regarding Fiscal Year 2025-26 Year-End Cardroom Revenue Update
DATE:August 24, 2026
RECOMMENDATION:
It is staff’s recommendation that the City Council receive and file the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Cardroom Revenue update report.
BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION:
On June 8, 2026, the City adopted the FY 2026-2027 General Fund Budget. As part of this presentation, a year-end FY 2025-2026 General Fund Projection was provided for both Revenue and Expenditures as of June 8, 2026. As part of further analysis, we are providing a projected update as of August 24, 2026. The City’s year-end figures will be reviewed and confirmed as part of the Audited financial statement process, later this fall.
FY 2025-2026 End-of Year Projection as of
June 8, 2026
Updated End-of-Year Projection
as of August 24, 2026
Revenue $54,450,236 $54,215,500*
Expenditures $56,423,231 $56,150,000*
Surplus/(Deficit)($1,972,995)($1,934,500)*
*Includes Final Aquatic Center Expenditures/Grant Reimbursements As part of the City’s annual year-end close process, revenue categories are closely monitored and actual year-end figures are confirmed to facilitate this close-out process. At the time of this report, FY 2025-2026 Cardroom Revenue actual figures have been identified and confirmed. The table below provides a side-by-side comparison of FY 2024-2025 and FY 2025-2026. Showing the increased amount of Cardroom Revenue received in FY 2025-2026 from the prior year.
FY 2024-2025 & FY 2025-2026 Cardroom Revenue Actuals
Month FY 2024-2025 FY 2025-2026
July $1,608,506.56 $1,498,971.78
August $1,314,920.93 $1,532,761.45
September $858,181.07 $1,313,141.97
October $1,105,831.58 $1,465,885.27
November $1,172,286.55 $1,446,316.76
December $1,219,753.00 $1,392,039.77
January $1,275,050.98 $1,414,580.59
February $1,263,078.86 $1,259,941.11
March $1,482,227.41 $1,553,614.04
April $1,344,003.56 $1,424,272.85
May $1,437,057.73 $1,416,460.19
June $1,288,834.52 $1,354,317.73
Total $15,369,732.75 $17,072,303.51
SB 549 Tribal Lawsuit – Timeline of Key Events
•September 28, 2024: Governor Gavin Newsom signed SB 549 into law, allowing tribes to sue private cardrooms to stop the play of certain table games. •January 2025: Seven California tribes filed their coordinated lawsuit against state cardrooms ahead of the deadline.
•April 1, 2025: Statutory deadline mandated by SB 549 for tribes to file their legal challenges.
•October 2025: Sacramento Superior Court Judge Lauri A Damrell upheld a dismissal of the lawsuit, ruling that the matter was preempted by federal Indian gaming laws and finalized the dismissal.
•Late 2025: Tribal legal teams initiated appeals to challenge the dismissal in the higher state appellate courts.
•June 30, 2026: San Francisco Superior Court Judge struck down state gambling regulations, ruling that the Bureau of Gambling Control Exceeded its authority. •Present: An appeal has been filed to the Court of Appeals.
Next Steps for City of Bell Gardens
Staff recommends that the City take the following steps to address and monitor City revenue:
1. Continue to closely monitor card room revenue.
2. Develop contingencies to address any long-term reductions in cardroom revenues
3. Continue to develop additional revenue opportunities •Voter Approved 1/4% Sales Tax Ballot Measure Passed during June 2026 Special Election; (Estimated $1.3 Million per year).
•Retail Cannabis (5 Development Agreements Signed; 2 currently in operation; 2 expected to open in September, 1 expected to open in November.) •General Fee Study (RFP currently in process).
•Implementation of HDL Business license audit and administration services, as well as cannabis audit services.
•Continue economic development efforts to attract more business to Bell Gardens.
CONCLUSION:
It is staff’s recommendation that the City Council receive, discuss, and file the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Year-End Cardroom revenue update report.
FISCAL IMPACT:
No Fiscal Impact.
APPROVED ELECTRONICALLY BY:
Manuel Acosta, Acting City Manager
Stephanie Vasquez, City Attorney
Manuel Carrillo, Director of Finance and Administrative Services
City of Bell Gardens
Card Room Revenue Update
Fiscal Year 2025 – 2026
FY 2025-2026 General Fund Projection
2 FY 2025-2026 End-of-Year Projection
as of June 8, 2026
Updated End-of-Year
Projection
as of August 24, 2026
Revenues $54,450,236 $54,215,500
Expenditures $56,423,231 $56,150,000
Surplus/(Deficit)($1,972,995)($1,934,500)
-
($1,972,995)($1,934,500)
(4,000,000)
(3,500,000)
(3,000,000)
(2,500,000)
(2,000,000)
(1,500,000)
(1,000,000)
(500,000)
-
End of Year
Projection 6/8/26
End of Year
Projection 8/24/26
Change in Fund Balance
FY2025-2026
Fiscal Year 2024-2025 & Fiscal Year 2025-2026
Card Room Revenue Actuals
3 Month Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Fiscal Year 2025-2026
July $1,608,506.56 $1,498,971.78
August $1,314,920.93 $1,532,761.45
September $858,181.07 $1,313,141.97
October $1,105,831.58 $1,465,885.27
November $1,172,286.55 $1,446,316.76
December $1,219,753.00 $1,392,039.77
January $1,275,050.98 $1,414,580.59
February $1,263,078.86 $1,259,941.11
March $1,482,227.41 $1,553,614.04
April $1,344,003.56 $1,424,272.85
May $1,437,057.73 $1,416,460.19
June $1,288,834.52 $1,354,317.73
Total $15,369,732.75 $17,072,303.51
SB 549 Tribal Lawsuit –Timeline of Key Events
•September 28, 2024: SB 549 was signed into law, allowing tribes to sue private cardrooms, to stop the play of certain table games.
•January 2025: Seven (7) CA tribes filed their coordinated lawsuit against state cardrooms ahead of the deadline.
•April 1, 2025: Statutory deadline mandated by SB 549 for tribes to file their legal challenges.
•October 2025: Sacramento Superior Court Judge upheld a dismissal of the lawsuit, ruling that the matter preempted by federal Indian gaming laws and finalized the dismissal. •Late 2025: Tribal legal teams-initiated appeals to challenge the dismissal in the higher state appellate court.
•June 30, 2026: San Francisco Superior Court Judge struck down state gambling regulations; ruling that the Bureau of Gambling Control Exceeded its authority.
•Present: An appeal has been filed to the Court of Appeals
Next Steps
1.) Continue to monitor cardroom revenue
2.) Develop contingencies to address any long-term reduction in cardroom revenues
3.) Continue to develop additional revenue opportunities:
•Voter Approved .25% Sales Tax Ballot Measure BG; passed during June 2026 elections (Estimated $1.3 million/year)
•Retail Cannabis (5 DA’s Signed; 2 operational; 2 expected to begin operations in September, 1 expected to begin operations in November.)
•General Fee Study (RFP currently in process)
•Implementation of HDL Business license audit and administrative services; as well as cannabis audit services.
•Continued economic development efforts to attract more business to Bell Gardens.
5 City of Bell Gardens
Q & A