15-G
TO: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
ATTENTION: Ryan Smoot, City Manager
FROM: Mayra Ochiqui, City Clerk
SUBJECT: Consideration and possible action to approve the Minutes of the April 27, 2026, Regular Meeting of the City Council.
DATE: June 8, 2026
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
None
RECOMMENDATION TO CITY COUNCIL
1) Approve the April 27, 2026, Regular Meeting Minutes; or
2) Alternatively, discuss and take other action related to this item.
FISCAL IMPACT
None
ATTACHMENT
Minutes of the April 27, 2026, Regular Meeting of the City Council …………..…… 2
1 MINUTES
CITY OF BELLFLOWER
REGULAR MEETING OF THE BELLFLOWER CITY COUNCIL
MONDAY, APRIL 27, 2026
BELLFLOWER CITY HALL – COUNCIL CHAMBERS
5:30 P.M. CLOSED SESSION / 7:00 P.M. OPEN SESSION
5:30 P.M. – CLOSED SESSION
1 CALL TO ORDER
None
2 ROLL CALL
None
3 RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION
None
4 RECONVENE FOR OPEN SESSION
None
7:00 P.M. – OPEN SESSION
5 CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Santa Ines called the Open Session of the Regular City Council Meeting to order at 7:03 p.m.
6 ROLL CALL
The following members of the City Council responded present to roll call:
Mayor Sonny R. Santa Ines
Mayor Pro Tem Victor A. Sanchez
Council Member Ray Dunton
Council Member Dan Koops
Council Member Wendi Morse
2 Bellflower City Council Minutes Item No. 6
April 27, 2026 Page 2 of 17
6 ROLL CALL – Continued
Staff Participants:
Ryan Smoot, City Manager
Karl H. Berger, City Attorney
Mayra Ochiqui, City Clerk
Len Gorecki, Assistant City Manager/Director of Public Works Brian McNerney, Director of Public Safety
Elizabeth Oba, Director of Planning & Building Services Kathryn Brun, Senior Planner
Jim DellaLonga, Director of Economic Development
Karla Pineda, Senior Project Manager
Frank Preciado, Public Works Division Head
Krist Smith, Recreation Manager
Wangsu Lee, Assistant to the City Manager
Jennifer Russell, Management Assistant
7 INVOCATION
Council Member Dan Koops offered the Invocation.
8 PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Assistant City Manager/Director of Public Works Len Gorecki led the assembly in the Pledge of Allegiance.
9 REQUEST TO APPEAR REMOTELY
None
10-A CITY COUNCIL ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mayor Santa Ines provided details regarding the City of Bellflower’s upcoming ribbon-cutting ceremony for “The Bark Spot,” a new dog park at Caruthers Park, to be held on May 1, 2026.
Mayor Pro Tem Sanchez provided details regarding the City of Bellflower’s upcoming Bellflower Civic Chorus performances, “Keep a Song in Your Heart: A Tribute to Singers & Songwriters,” to be held on May 2 - 3, 2026, at the William & Jane Bristol Civic Auditorium, noting that the event will feature a mixed -voice chorus.
3 Bellflower City Council Minutes Item No. 10-A
April 27, 2026 Page 3 of 17
10-A CITY COUNCIL ANNOUNCEMENTS – Continued
Council Member Morse provided details regarding the City of Bellflower’s upcoming “Day of the Shred” event to be held on May 16, 2026, at Thompson Park, noting that the event will offer free document shredding for residents with a limit of five boxes or bags per household on a first-come, first-served basis until capacity is reached.
Council Member Dunton provided details regarding the City of Bellflower’s upcoming E-Waste recycling event to be held on May 9 - 10, 2026, at Bellflower Middle and High School, noting that the event will allow residents to safely dispose of electronic items such as monitors, televisions, and laptops.
Council Member Koops provided details regarding upcoming, free and public programs at the Clifton M. Brakensiek Library, noting that the library will host a Children’s “Bee Hotels” STEM Program on May 6, 2026, for youth ages 5 - 12 with a caregiver, as well as a screening of Life of Pi for adults on May 16, 2026, in celebration of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.
10-B PRESENTATION: PUBLIC SAFETY AND SHERIFF UPDATE
Director of Public Safety McNerney and Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Captain Dan Holguin gave a PowerPoint presentation providing an overview of public safety efforts and responded to Council Members’ questions.
At the request of Mayor Santa Ines, Director McNerney confirmed that staff can work on a pilot project to re-engineer the Neighborhood Watch Program into a pilot program to make it more relatable to how people communicate today and invite the community to provide feedback.
At the request of Mayor Pro Tem Sanchez, Director McNerney confirmed that 1) data on solved robbery cases could be provided in the future to share with the community, as residents have stated in the past that they report cases which are never solved; and 2) confirmed that he can connect with Director of Economic Development DellaLonga to explore PATH funding available for rental assistance to possibly use it for homeless outreach services.
In response to questions from Sophia Partida, resident, Mayor Santa Ines stated that questions may be asked under the public comments portion of the agenda.
10-C PRESENTATION: FOSTER ROAD TRAFFIC SIGNAL UPGRADES AND LANE
STRIPING PROJECT
Assistant City Manager/Director of Public Works Gorecki gave a PowerPoint presentation providing an overview of the Foster Road Traffic Signal Upgrade and Lane Striping Project and responded to Council Members’ questions. 4 Bellflower City Council Minutes Item No. 11
April 27, 2026 Page 4 of 17
10-C PRESENTATION: FOSTER ROAD TRAFFIC SIGNAL UPGRADES AND LANE STRIPING PROJECT – Continued
At the request of Mayor Pro Tem Sanchez, Assistant City Manager/Director of Public Works Gorecki clarified how often staff are applying for grants such as the MTA Grant and confirmed there would be a future presentation on the Artesia Corridor shared with the City of Long Beach (Artesia Boulevard and Downey Avenue).
11 PUBLIC COMMENTS
Sophia Partida, resident, 1) requested and received clarification from Mayor Santa Ines that the acronym “RFP” stands for “Request for Proposal;” 2) requested and received clarification from Council Member Koops that car crash fatalities were not included in the reported crime statistics, as such incidents are not classified as crimes or counted as homicides; and 3) suggested using the Citizen App to help track community-reported incidents.
Brian Barreto, California American Water External Affairs Manager, 1) stated that the company recently updated its Emergency Response Plan (ERP), discussed security protocols, response actions, and emergency preparedness measures, and offered an opportunity for the City Council to review and learn more about the ERP; 2) emphasized the importance of maintaining essential water system operations during emergencies; and 3) expressed the company’s commitment to partnership with the community, welcoming ongoing coordination with the Council and City staff.
Judith Slenk, Neighborhood Watch Coordinator, 1) shared that the Neighborhood Watch program on Park Street and Woodruff Avenue was initiated following a catalytic converter theft and noted that Neighborhood Watch signage has since been installed; 2) raised traffic safety concerns at the intersection o f Park Street and Woodruff Avenue, citing the absence of stop signs or traffic signals and frequent accidents, including a recent incident; 3) requested consideration of additional safety measures, including red curb markings for improved visibility and the installation of a stop sign to create a four-way stop at Park Street; 4) noted that the street connects to California Avenue and vehicle speed in the area, contributing to safety risks; and 5) emphasized the effectiveness of the Neighborhood Watch program in reducing crime, highlighting the use of a Facebook group and group text for community coordination, and expressed hope that the City will acknowledge and address these public safety concerns.
In response to comments provided by Judith Slenk and at the request of Mayor Santa Ines, Assistant City Manager/Director of Public Works Gorecki confirmed that staff would look into the matter further.
5 Bellflower City Council Minutes Item No. 11
April 27, 2026 Page 5 of 17
11 PUBLIC COMMENTS – Continued
Holly Risha, resident, 1) expressed appreciation to the City Council for the work they do; 2) stated that she is a long-time, Park Street resident of 44 years and Neighborhood Watch member, expressed concerns regarding traffic safety in the area, noting difficulty and safety risks when making right turns onto Woodruff Avenue, and requested assistance from the City in addressing the safety concerns.
In response to comments provided by Holly Risha, Mayor Santa Ines reiterated that there is a process for this type of request, staff will look into the matter, and noted that the comments were a testament that the Neighborhood Watch is working in the area.
Joel Slenk, Bellflower Civic Chorus, expressed gratitude to Mayor Pro Tem Sanchez for the announcement relative to the upcoming concert and thanked the City for allowing the organization to use rehearsal space at Simms Park and use of the auditorium at no charge, noting that this support helps the organization continue its programs.
Don Abbott, resident, addressed the City Council relative to noise concerns in his neighborhood stating that 1) he expressed these same concerns approximately three years ago and was informed that the City had a plan, but it was not communicated to him; 2) ongoing and an increase in disturbances due to live bands and parties; 3) his wife is sensitive to noise and may end up in the hospital over the issue; and 4) encouraged the City to bring back the Sky Knight helicopter patrols.
In response to comments provided by Don Abbot, Mayor Santa Ines requested he speak with Director of Public Safety McNerney regarding his concerns.
Kimberly Guevara, Community Engagement Specialist, Helpline Youth Counseling, provided details regarding the organization’s youth counseling and community prevention efforts across Los Angeles County Service Area 7, noting its work on medication misuse and safe disposal practices in collaboration with local pharmacies, recent community medication National Take-Back Day events with Whittier and Downey Police Departments that collected hundreds of expired or unwanted medications, and invited the City to partner with their organization for the next event scheduled in October 2026.
In response to comments provided by Kimberly Guevara, Mayor Santa Ines requested that she provide her contact information to City Clerk Ochiqui so the City can connect with her.
Stefanie Coronado, resident, addressed the City Council regarding community-led block parties, 1) expressing the opinion that they allow children to play safely, neighbors to interact in a supportive environment, and the bad actions of one person shouldn’t prevent the broader community benefit; and 2) requested the City Council consider revising regulations to allow block parties again. 6 Bellflower City Council Minutes Item No. 12-A
April 27, 2026 Page 6 of 17
12 PUBLIC HEARINGS
A Consideration and possible action to conduct a Public Hearing to consider a Tentative Map, a Development Review, and a Conditional Use Permit, and to adopt Resolution No. 26-14 – A Resolution approving Tentative Map No. TM 83476 to reconfigure eight lots into five lots; Development Review Case No. DR 9-25-16688 to allow for the construction of four commercial buildings ranging from 1,025 square feet to 5,728 square feet; and Conditional Use Permit Case No. CU 25-07 to allow for three drive-through facilities, a fuel station with accessory off-site alcohol sales, and for developing on lots that will measure less than 1.5 acres within the Design for Development for the South Bellflower Commercial Area (“DFD”) on real property commonly known as 17617 – 17639 Bellflower Boulevard; Applicant: Steven Pollock, representing OnPoint Development Management.
CEQA: This Project was reviewed for compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (California Public Resources Code §§ 21000, et seq., "CEQA") and CEQA regulations (14 California Code of Regulations §§ 15000, et seq.; the “CEQA Guidelines”). The proposed Project is categorically exempt per CEQA Guidelines § 15332 (Class 32 – In-Fill Development Projects), because the site is less than five acres, surrounded by urban uses and has no value as habitat for endangered, rare or threatened species. The Project would not result in significant effects related to traffic, noise, air quality, or water quality and it can be adequately served by all required utilities and public services. Furthermore, it can be seen with certainty that no special circumstances exist that would create a reasonable possibility that the proposed Project will have a significant adverse effect on the environment.
City Manager Smoot introduced the item.
For the record, City Clerk Ochiqui 1) stated that lots were drawn on October 23, 2023, among Council Members Dunton, Koops, and Morse to determine participation in the matter due to property-related conflicts; and 2) noted that the drawing resulted in Council Member Koops participating in the matter and all future consideration of the matter, while Council Members Dunton and Morse would remain conflicted and would not participate.
For the record, 1) Council Member Morse announced that she would recuse herself from Item 12-A as she has property interests within 500 feet of the subject property, and left the dais and Council Chambers at 8:36 p.m.; and 2) Council Member Dunton announced he would recuse himself from Item 12-A as he has property within 1,000 feet of the subject property and left the dais and Council Chambers at 8:36 p.m.
Senior Planner Brun 1) provided a PowerPoint presentation of the Staff Report; and 2) responded to Council Members’ questions along with City Manager Smoot, City Attorney Berger, and Director of Planning and Building Services Oba.
For the record, Senior Planner Brun noted the Applicant Steven Pollack recently changed companies and this change would need to be reflected in Resolution No. 26-14 to correctly reflect that the Applicant represents Pollock Devco, LLC instead of OnPoint Development Management.
7 Bellflower City Council Minutes Item No. 12-A
April 27, 2026 Page 7 of 17
12 PUBLIC HEARINGS – Continued
A Consideration and possible action to conduct a Public Hearing to consider a Tentative Map, a Development Review, and a Conditional Use Permit, and to adopt Resolution No. 26-14– Continued
For the record and the benefit of the public, Mayor Santa Ines provided a brief background of the project, including that he and Council Member Koops were part of the two-member subcommittee to review this project three-and-a-half years ago in 2022, the presentation was similar then, the Council was looking forward to the completion of the project, but it was not completed and the Conditional Use Permit (CUP) expired in 2025.
At the request of Mayor Pro Tem Sanchez, City Attorney Berger 1) stated that standard Conditions of Approval (COAs) already require approval of landscaping and maintenance plans; 2) noted that while such requirements are documented, the key issue is ensuring effective implementation after approval; 3) explained that ongoing compliance is primarily a code enforcement ma tter, emphasizing the need for both voluntary compliance by property owners and follow -through by Code Enforcement to ensure maintenance standards are maintained; and 4) confirmed the City can impose a Condition of Approval to prohibit the sale of single-can alcoholic beverages, explaining that compliance depends both on clearly defined expectations and an additional layer of enforcement to ensure those conditions are properly implemented and upheld.
In response to Mayor Pro Tem Sanchez’s comments, Director Oba further clarified that the item referenced is already included as a condition, noting that it is a carryover condition from the previous project approval.
Following discussion, it was moved by Council Member Koops, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Sanchez, and carried without objection, to open the public hearing.
Jeff Gold, Property Owner, 1) expressed appreciation for the time and noted that circumstances have changed since the immediate post -pandemic period and confirmed that the development is moving forward; 2) stated that the project now has four tenants in place: Dutch Bros. Coffee, The Habit Burger Grill, 7-Eleven Convenience Store with a Shell Gas Station (one operator), ad an EV charging station; 3) indicated that while another pandemic could create challenges for tenancy, current funding and tenant commitments are in place , and the economic terms are acceptable; 4) at the request of Mayor Santa Ines, confirmed that if there were not a tenant committed to Pad 3, that it would not inhibit the project from moving forward.
Steven Pollock, Applicant, 1) at the request of Mayor Santa Ines, confirmed that they would submit the construction drawings for plan check within 90 days and were open to utilizing the self-certification process for the architects and mechanical engineers; however, other portions would not make sense, such as the civil engineers as that process includes a public review process; 2) received clarification from City Manager Smoot that the y could submit the fire plan for City review instead of the County and noted receipt of that as an option; [continued on next page.]
8 Bellflower City Council Minutes Item No. 12-A
April 27, 2026 Page 8 of 17
12 PUBLIC HEARINGS – Continued
A Consideration and possible action to conduct a Public Hearing to consider a Tentative Map, a Development Review, and a Conditional Use Permit, and to adopt Resolution No. 26-14– Continued
Steven Pollock, Applicant, - Continued: 3) stated that the project has been in review by Southern California Edison since August 2025 and the power pole relocation and undergrounding of overhead utilities should be approved by the end of July 2026, and after that construction can commence in approximately seven to nine months; 4) at the request of Mayor Santa Ines confirmed that he had read the COAs; and 5) requested and received clarification from City Attorney Berger and noted that he understands the following relative to the COAs listed below:
- Condition No. 7 – attorney fees have already been incurred and will be billed;
- Condition No. 15 – if the perimeter walls are within their property lines, as they appear to be, then no approval is needed;
- Condition No. 18 – if the development complies with the trash bin requirements, no trash compactors will be required, although they are committing to installing a one-inch empty conduit for electrical in case it is needed in the future;
- Condition No. 21 – development tenant staff will be trained in traffic mitigation in the event the cue lines extend beyond the traffic site; and - Condition No. 22 – the certificate of occupancy for the condition is interpreted to mean the final certificate of occupancy, as the tenants will be providing minor landscaping on each individual pad .
In response to comments made by Applicant Pollock relative to Condition No. 22, and at the request of Mayor Santa Ines, City Manager Smoot stated that issuing the final certificate of occupancy in this way is not uncommon for a phased project such as this, noting that ultimately it is the responsibility of the Building Official to issue temporary and final certificates of occupancy.
Property Owner Gold, 1) noted that the operator of the 7-Eleven convenience store does not have a representative in attendance at the meeting, however they stated that they read the conditions pertaining to alcohol sales and they are acceptable to them, noting that the operator will be the same current operator from the location across the street and they have not had any issues ; and 2) at the request of Council Member Koops, stated that the reason the property is split into separate parcels is the possibility of selling the parce ls individually in the future, but also to simply the responsibility of property taxes and insurance to clearly define what each tenant is responsible for.
At the request of Council Member Sanchez and Mayor Santa Ines, Applicant Pollock and Property Owner Gold confirmed that the landscaping for the entire development would need to be maintained by the property management, even if a pad were to be sold.
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April 27, 2026 Page 9 of 17
12 PUBLIC HEARINGS – Continued
A Consideration and possible action to conduct a Public Hearing to consider a Tentative Map, a Development Review, and a Conditional Use Permit, and to adopt Resolution No. 26-14– Continued
Brian Espinoza, resident, 1) supported the proposed development, noting he appreciates having a convenient, accessible project and that his initial concern about multiple drive-throughs changed after understanding how it will benefit the surrounding community; 2) highlighted the need for better landscaping along the south side of Bellflower, pointing out the lack of trees and encouraging more thoughtful landscaping in vehicle-oriented areas and nearby residential zones; and 3) asked if the City Council would consider conditioning larger shade trees to enhance the pedestrian experience and reduce heat exposure.
In response to comments provided by Brian Espinoza, 1) at the request of Mayor Santa Ines, Senior Planner Brun confirmed that staff can look into what was suggested; and 2) Mayor Santa Ines invited him to stay for two other agenda items related to trees on the agenda.
There being no one in attendance wishing to provide further public comment, it was moved by Mayor Pro Tem Sanchez, seconded by Council Member Koops, and carried without objection to close the public hearing.
Following discussion, it was moved by Council Member Koops, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Sanchez, and carried by the following roll vote to adopt Resolution No. 26-14, as amended to correct the Applicant’s name from “OnPoint Development Management” to “Pollock DevCo, LLC”:
AYES: Council Members – Koops, Sanchez, and Mayor Santa Ines RECUSE: Council Members – Morse; Dunton
Recess: Without objection, Mayor Santa Ines recessed the meeting at 9:27 p.m. for a short break.
Reconvene: Mayor Santa Ines reconvened the meeting at 9:35 p.m. with all Council Members present.
For the record, Council Member Dunton and Council Member Morse returned to the Council Chambers and dais at 9:35 p.m.
10 Bellflower City Council Minutes Item No. 12-B
April 27, 2026 Page 10 of 17
12 PUBLIC HEARINGS – Continued
B Consideration and possible action to conduct a public hearing to receive comments on the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Annual Action Plan (AAP) and adopt Resolution No. 26-15 – A Resolution approving the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Annual Action Plan (AAP); authorizing the City Manager to submit the AAP to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD); and authorizing the City Manager to take all actions necessary to implement the programs identified in the AAP.
City Manager Smoot introduced the item.
Senior Project Manager Pineda and Consultant Ana Marie LeNoue, President of Avant-Garde Inc., 1) provided a PowerPoint presentation of the Staff Report, noting that no written comments were received; and 2) responded to Council Members’ questions along with City Manager Smoot and Director of Economic Development DellaLonga.
At the request of Mayor Santa Ines, President LeNoue 1) explained that HOME Investment funds must be utilized within seven years from the time of allocation, with new funds allocated annually; 2) stated that the City is currently at risk of losing approximately $76,000 if not expended by September 2026, with compliance reviewed each September; and 3) confirmed that she would look up the amount that will expire by next year.
Director DellaLonga added that staff anticipate expending the funds by the required deadline and noted that the oldest funds will be prioritized for spending first to ensure timely compliance.
City Manager Smoot 1) stated that in reviewing these types of programs, the City evaluates whether they are operating as efficiently as possible; and 2) noted that programs such as CDBG can become overly burdensome to administer and track, and if administrative costs are too high, the City may consider utilizing alternative funding sources.
At the request of Council Member Koops, Senior Project Manager Pineda confirmed that more than half of the 15 units referenced are mobile homes, consistent with the prior amendments to include mobile homes.
Following discussion, it was moved by Council Member Morse, seconded by Council Member Koops, and carried without objection, to open the public hearing.
There being no one in attendance wishing to provide public comment, it was moved by Council Member Dunton, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Sanchez, and carried without objection to close the public hearing.
11 Bellflower City Council Minutes Item No. 12-B
April 27, 2026 Page 11 of 17
12 PUBLIC HEARINGS – Continued
B Consideration and possible action to conduct a public hearing to receive comments on the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Annual Action Plan (AAP) and adopt Resolution No. 26-15 – Continued
Following discussion, it was moved by Mayor Pro Tem Sanchez, seconded by Council Member Koops, and unanimously carried by the following roll vote to adopt Resolution No. 26-15 approving the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 AAP and authorizing any necessary budgetary adjustments to the Fiscal Year 2026 -2027 Operating Budget in accordance with the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 AAP:
AYES: Council Members – Koops, Morse, Sanchez, Dunton, and Mayor Santa Ines
13 ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS FOR CONSIDERATION
None
14 CONSIDERATION ITEMS
A Consideration and possible action to adopt the Urban Forest Master Plan (“UFMP”) and provide the City Manager with direction regarding the City’s urban forest regulations.
CEQA: The UFMP is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3). Here, the UFMP is intended to ameliorate the impacts of climate change and human activity upon the environment. It is plain, therefore, from any reasonable viewpoint that there is no significant impact upon the environment arising solely from adopting the UFMP.
Individual projects that implement the UFMP will be independently evaluated in accordance with CEQA.
City Manager Smoot introduced the item.
Assistant to the City Manager Lee and Public Works Division Head Preciado 1) provided a PowerPoint presentation of the Staff Report; 2) noted that representatives from West Coast Arborists were in attendance and available for questions; and 3) responded to Council Members’ questions along with City Manager Smoot, Assistant City Manager/Director of Public Works Gorecki, City Attorney Berger, and Parks and Recreation Manager Smith.
12 Bellflower City Council Minutes Item No. 14-A
April 27, 2026 Page 12 of 17
14 CONSIDERATION ITEMS – Continued
A Consideration and possible action to adopt the Urban Forest Master Plan (“UFMP”) and provide the City Manager with direction regarding the City’s urban forest regulations. – Continued
________________________________________________________________
At the request of Mayor Santa Ines, Parks and Recreation Manager Smith 1) stated that the City offers a program called “A Tree Grows in Bellflower” allowing individuals to dedicate a tree in honor of a loved one; 2) explained that participants may either dedicate an existing tree or donate a new tree; 3) noted that the cost to donate a new tree is $600, which includes a cement plaque, and that many su ch trees are located at Caruthers Park; and 4) confirmed that the program can be publicized on the City’s website.
At the request of Mayor Santa Ines and City Manager Smoot, City Attorney Berger further confirmed that the donation would be tax deductible, noting that the City is a nonprofit corporation and there is an Internal Revenue Code section that specifically allows you to make tax deductions based upon donations.
Mayor Pro Tem Sanchez 1) stated that he was in favor of the City taking a more aggressive approach to reaching its goal, suggesting an increased replacement ratio of 1:3 trees in the near term, then transitioning to a 1:1 replacement ratio after achieving the Citywide goal of ten percent canopy, emphasizing the need to accelerate progress toward that target.
At the request of Mayor Santa Ines, Assistant City Manager/Director Gorecki 1) confirmed that the current contract contains provisions for tree planting as part of normal operations, with trees planted as needed; 2) stated that in addition to that, the City Council allocated $100,000 to plant a minimum of 100 trees, with the more likely number at approximately 200 trees; and 3) stated the challenges surrounding reaching the ten percent canopy goal including working with private property owners, a defined amount of public right-of-way, and the 3,200 vacant tree sites that need to be filled.
Lengthy discussion ensued including, but not limited to, the planting and maintenance of new trees, the challenges and constraints of reaching the ten percent canopy goal, and the canopy will naturally increase over time as the trees are planted and grow.
Mayor Santa Ines 1) stated that trees require time to grow in order to establish canopy coverage; and 2) noted that staff will need time to adjust to the new tree-planting approach, as the necessary infrastructure is not yet in place to fully implement it immediately and maintenance considerations must be addressed, and suggested continuing the process and evaluating it after the first year of the budget cycle to ensure adequate time and resources for successful implementation.
13 Bellflower City Council Minutes Item No. 14-A
April 27, 2026 Page 13 of 17
14 CONSIDERATION ITEMS – Continued
A Consideration and possible action to adopt the Urban Forest Master Plan (“UFMP”) and provide the City Manager with direction regarding the City’s urban forest regulations. – Continued
________________________________________________________________
For the record and following lengthy discussion, 1) City Manager Smoot reminded the City Council that a vote must be taken to continue to meeting passed 10:30 p.m. and it was now beyond that time; and 2) it was moved by Council Member Dunton, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Sanchez, and carried without objection, to continue the meeting passed 10:30 p.m.
City Manager Smoot stated that the plan is flexible and goals can be adjusted, the City is already meeting and on track to exceeding its current goals, and recommended setting realistic goals that reflect current success, warning that planting all trees at once could lead to future maintenance and replacement issues.
For the record, 1) Council Member Dunton stated support for continuing current efforts and suggested staff return in six months with an update on progress made; 2) Mayor Santa Ines pointed out that staff would actually report back to the City Council sooner than six months during the budget cycle in July and the cost allocation can be adjusted; 3) at the request of Council Member Koops, Assistant City Manager/Director Gorecki clarified that the intent of the grant was inclusive of planting trees and a three-year maintenance program using Good Soils Industries (Kingdom Causes); and 4) Mayor Santa Ines suggested referring to the areas as grids, such as Grid 1 and Grid 2, instead of districts because it doesn’t perfectly align with districts.
For the record, 1) discussion ensued regarding the proportions of the various districts/grids to one another and the varying percentages of canopy in each; 2) Mayor Pro Tem Sanchez suggested giving district/grid four priority over the other areas so that it could “catch up;” 3) Mayor Santa Ines suggested making the allotment of new trees proportionate so that the districts/grids grow together, noting that District/Grid 4 would catch up quickly; and 4) Assistant to the City Manager suggested planting the variety of trees that grow faster than others in District/Grod 4 so that it would “catch up” quicker;
Andrew San Nicolas, Executive Director of Kingdom Causes and resident, 1) thanked the City for the chance to be part of the Bellflower community and praised City staff; 2) stated that trees, safety, and community involvement are important to the organization; 3) shared that the work being done is helping build trust and shows positive progress in the community; and 4) at the request of Mayor Santa Ines, spoke in support of the plan and agreed that the plan should be implemented faster, noting that he and his kids strategically cross streets when on walks to try to walk under trees.
14 Bellflower City Council Minutes Item No. 14-A
April 27, 2026 Page 14 of 17
14 CONSIDERATION ITEMS – Continued
A Consideration and possible action to adopt the Urban Forest Master Plan (“UFMP”) and provide the City Manager with direction regarding the City’s urban forest regulations. – Continued
________________________________________________________________
Council Member Koops requested and received clarification from Assistant City Manager/Director Gorecki and Assistant to the City Manager Lee with regard to the Green Latinos organization, who confirmed their ongoing involvement as the “pass-through” granting agency, have disburse $78,900 to the City of the $80,000 incurred and when the rest of it is billed by West Coast Arborist, they will submit that to Green Latinos for reimbursement.
Following lengthy discussion, it was moved by Council Member Morse, seconded by Council Member Dunton, and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, to 1) adopt the Urban Forest Master Plan; and 2) provide the City Manager with direction regarding the City’s urban forest regulations, as discussed, to include staff taking the basic approach and prepare an ordinance for further consideration by the City Council at a future meeting:
AYES: Council Members – Koops, Morse, Sanchez, Dunton, and Mayor Santa Ines
15 CONSENT CALENDAR
For the record, 1) Council Member Morse announced that she would recuse herself on Items 15-C (HVAC Building Automation Systems at City Hall and Simms Park) 15-D (Ordinance No. 1456), and 15-E (Development of a Sonic drive through at 9818 Artesia Boulevard) as she owns property within 500 feet of the subject properties; 2) Council Member Dunton announced that he would recuse himself on Item 15-E (Development of a Sonic drive through at 9818 Artesia Boulevard) as he owns property within 500 feet of the subject property; and 3) Council Member Koops announced that he would recuse himself on Items 1 5-C (HVAC Building Automation Systems at City Hall and Simms Park) and 15-H (Simms Park Stormwater Capture Project) as he owns property within 500 feet of the subject properties.
Following discussion and noting the aforementioned recusals, it was moved by Council Member Koops, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Sanchez, and carried by the following roll call vote, to approve the actions stipulated on the Consent Calendar:
AYES: Council Members – Koops, Morse, Sanchez, Dunton, and Mayor Santa Ines
15 Bellflower City Council Minutes Item No. 15
April 27, 2026 Page 15 of 17
15 CONSENT CALENDAR – Continued
A Consideration and possible action to receive and file Warrant Register No. 26-102, dated April 27, 2026.
Action: Received and filed Warrant Register No. 26-102.
B Consideration and possible action to receive and file Investments Report for the Month of March 2026.
Action: Received and filed Investments Report.
C Consideration and possible action to award a contract to Thermal Concepts, Inc., for the HVAC Building Automation Systems at City Hall and Simms Park and authorize the City Manager to execute Agreement File No. 777.4 in a form approved by the City Attorney.______________________________________ Action: Authorized the City Manager to execute Agreement File No. 777.4 with Thermal Concepts, Inc., in a form approved by the City Attorney.
D Consideration and possible action to waive further reading and adopt Ordinance No. 1456 – An Ordinance approving 1) Zone Change Case No. ZC 25-02 to amend the zoning map from Transit Oriented Development Specific Plan (“TODSP”) to Flower Street Specific Plan (“FSSP”) on real property commonly known as 9855, 9903, and 9915 Flower Street; 2) Specific Plan Case No. SP 25-01 for Flower Street Specific Plan (“FSSP”) which provides the development and design standards for the three parcels; and 3) Development Agreement File No. 1125.1 between Bellflower 5 Inv, LLC and the City to facilitate development of 9903 Flower Street and potential future development of 9855 Flower Street; Applicant: Eric Miller Representing City Ventures Homebuilding, LLC and City of Bellflower.
CEQA: This Project was reviewed for compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (California Public Resources Code §§ 21000, et seq., "CEQA") and CEQA regulations (14 California Code of Regulations §§ 15000, et seq.; the “CEQA Guidelines”). An Initial Study (“IS”) and MND 25-01 were prepared. These found that the proposed project will not have a significant adverse effect on the environment with implementation of proposed mitigation measures. The 30-day public review period for the IS and MND began on January 9, 2026 and closed on February 9, 2026.
Action: Waived further reading and adopted Ordinance No. 1456.
E Consideration and possible action to authorize the City Manager to execute Exclusive Negotiation Agreement File No. 1137 with Coast to Coast LLC for the development of a Sonic drive through at 9818 Artesia Boulevard, in a form approved by the City Attorney.
Action: Authorized the City Manager to Execute Exclusive Negotiation Agreement File No. 1137, in a form approved by the City Attorney.
16 Bellflower City Council Minutes Item No. 15
April 27, 2026 Page 16 of 17
15 CONSENT CALENDAR – Continued
F Consideration and possible action to waive further reading and adopt Ordinance No. 1454 – An Ordinance granting to Bellflower-Somerset Mutual Water Company a franchise agreement to transmit and distribute potable water in, under, along, across, or upon City’s public streets, ways, alleys and places [Agreement File No. 320.9].
Action: Waived further reading and adopted Ordinance No. 1454 granting a Water Franchise to Bellflower-Somerset Mutual Water Company.
G Consideration and possible action to waive further reading and adopt Ordinance No. 1455 – An Ordinance amending Chapter 8.16 (Regulating Fireworks) of the Bellflower Municipal Code to extend the time for selling safe and sane fireworks within the City and to allow certain fireworks stands to be located along secondary arterial streets.
QEQA: The Ordinance is exempt from additional review under the California Environmental Quality Act (Public Resources Code §§ 21000, et sea., “CEQA”) and regulations promulgated thereunder (14 California Code of Regulations §§ 15000, et sea., the “CEQA Guidelines”) because under CEQA Guidelines §§ 15061 (b) (3) and 15378(b)(5), the Ordinance establishes internal governmental procedures that have no potential to cause a significant effect on the environment.
Action: Waived further reading and adopted Ordinance No. 1455.
H Consideration and possible action to authorize the City Manager to execute Amendment No. 7 to Agreement File No. 923, in a form approved by the City Attorney, with Craftwater Engineering, Inc., for additional work required for the Simms Park Stormwater Capture Project.
Action: Authorized the City Manager to execute Amendment No. 7 to Agreement File No. 923, in a form approved by the City Attorney.
I Consideration and possible action to authorize the City Manager to approve Agreement File No. 51.97 – Change Order No. 14-1137-2.01 issued by the County of Los Angeles Public Works for design modifications to the Woodruff Avenue Traffic Signal Synchronization Program (TSSP) project.
Action: 1) Authorized the City Manager to approve AFN 51.97 – Change Order No. 14-1137-2.01, in a form approved by the City Attorney; and 2) Approved a budget amendment to increase the budget in Account No. 115-51608-9000 to $550,000.
J Consideration and possible action to authorize the City Manager to execute Amendment No. 6 to Agreement File No. 917, in a form approved by the City Attorney, with BOA Architecture for additional design services and construction support services.
Action: Authorized the City Manager to execute Amendment No. 6 to Agreement File No. 917, in a form approved by the City Attorney.
17 Bellflower City Council Minutes Item No. 16
April 27, 2026 Page 17 of 17
16 COUNCIL REPORTS
Mayor Pro Tem Sanchez and Mayor Santa Ines made various comments and reports.
For the record and without objection, Mayor Pro Tem Sanchez requested the meeting be adjourned in memory of Diane Johnson.
For the record, pursuant to AB 1234, Mayor Santa Ines reported on his recent official travel to Sacramento, California as follows: on April 15, 2026, he was invited by the League of California Cities to testify on behalf of the City regarding the approval of AB 1708, which would allow cities with a population less than 300,000 to apply for the applicable homeless grants, noting that the bill was passed by the assembly committee unanimously following the public hearing. State law requires that local government officials report on their official travel activities when public funds are expended. Therefore, Mayor Santa Ines’s report was made pursuant to California Government Code Sections 53232.2 and 53232.3 and Bellflower Resolution No. 06-02.
17 ADJOURNMENT
Without objection, Mayor Santa Ines adjourned the meeting at 10:59 p.m., in memory of Diane Johnson, to the next regular Meeting of the Bellflower City Council at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, May 11, 2026.
__________________________
Sonny R. Santa Ines, Mayor
City of Bellflower
ATTEST:
__________________________
Mayra Ochiqui, City Clerk
Approved: June 8, 2026
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