B. Human -in -the -Loop Oversight. Al tools serve as assistants, not decision - makers. A human with relevant subject matter expertise as to the final work product must review and approve all AI -generated outputs before any publication or decision is finalized. Al may not be used to make final policy decisions, or decisions on behalf of the City, affecting residents, employees, or other relevant stakeholders without review and approval by a human with relevant subject matter expertise.
C. Privacy and Data Security. Confidential, proprietary, or personal data may only be submitted to vetted and approved Al systems meeting the City's security and compliance requirements. Submission of such data to unapproved Al tools is prohibited. Employees should be mindful that work product created with the assistance of Al tools may be subject to disclosure obligations under applicable law. Accordingly, utilizing attorney -client privileged materials and work product for any Al purposes including, without limitation, "double-checking" or "verifying" information contained in attorney work product, is prohibited. Any queries regarding such information must be made to the City's counsel.
D. Transparency and Disclosure. The use of Al tools in City work product must be disclosed as determined by the immediate supervisor overseeing the final work product in the normal course of business. Employees must clearly attribute AI -generated or assisted content in public -facing documents with the following: "This content was produced utilizing the assistance of artificial intelligence tools in accordance with City policy." Al prompts and outputs may be subject to disclosure under the California Public Records Act and in discovery in the context of litigation or criminal investigations.
E. Ethics and Fairness. Al systems or tools may not be used in ways that produce discriminatory, biased, or inequitable outcomes for residents, employees, or other relevant stakeholders. Employees must remain alert the possibility of Al errors, bias, or inaccurate outputs and take corrective action as needed.
F. Authorized Use Only. Employees may only use Al systems and tools reviewed and authorized by the IT Division. Unauthorized Al systems and tools must not be used for City business. Requests to evaluate new Al systems or tools must be reviewed and authorized by the IT Division.
V. GOVERNANCE AND ROLES
Effective Al governance requires clear accountability across all levels of the organization.
A. City Manager. Provides executive oversight of Al adoption citywide and ensures alignment with the City's strategic goals and values. 3 City of Bellflower — AP&P No. 10
Use of Artificial Intelligence (Al)
B. IT Division. Reviews and approves Al systems and tools before use; and provides employee training. The IT Manager maintains the Al Guidelines.
C. Department Heads. Ensure employees within their departments are trained on and comply with this policy; communicate AI -related concerns or incidents to IT.
D. All Employees. Comply with this policy; use only authorized Al systems and tools; complete training if required; verify all AI -assisted work and content before use, and; report concerns or incidents to their supervisor or the IT Division.
VI. PROHIBITED USES
The following uses of Al are expressly prohibited. Specific examples and additional context are provided in the Al Guidelines.
A. Entering confidential personnel information, personal data, sensitive financial information, legally privileged communications, or law enforcement data into any Al system or tool not expressly approved for such use.
B. Using Al to make fully automated decisions —without substantive human review —that materially affect residents, employees, or other relevant stakeholders (e.g., hiring, discipline, benefits, or enforcement actions).
C. Generating or distributing misleading, deceptive, or fraudulent content, including deepfakes or impersonations of any person, official, or event.
D. Using Al systems or tools for personal, non -City purposes on City devices or networks.
E. Attempting to bypass City security controls, policies, or legal requirements using Al.
F. Using free, consumer -grade Al tools or services where City data may be used to train public Al models, unless explicitly approved by IT.
VII. Al GUIDELINES
Day-to-day operational guidance —including approved tools, data classification, output verification, public records obligations, disclosure requirements, and the process for requesting new tools —is contained in the City of Bellflower Al Guidelines, maintained by the IT Manager and incorporated by reference in this policy. All employees authorized to use Al tools must read and acknowledge the Al Guidelines before use.
VIII. COMPLIANCE AND ENFORCEMENT
4 City of Bellflower — AP&P No. 10
Use of Artificial Intelligence (Al)
A. Non -Compliance. Violations of this policy may be subject to corrective action in accordance with applicable City personnel rules and collective bargaining agreements.
B. Incident Reporting. Employees who become aware of a potential violation, data incident, or AI -related harm must report it immediately to their supervisor and the IT Division. Incidents are managed by IT in coordination with the City Manager's office.
C. Policy Review. This policy should be reviewed at a minimum every three years, or sooner as desirable. Updates will be communicated to all departments by the IT Division.
APPROVED:
Ryan Smoot, City Manager
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Karl H. Berger, City Attorney
Origination: June 22, 2026
CERTIFICATION AND RECEIPT OF UNDERSTANDING
I certify that I have received a copy of the City of Bellflower Policy for Use of Artificial Intelligence ("Al"). I have reviewed and understand its contents and agree to abide by the principles and requirements in these Administrative Policies & Procedures.
Name:
Title:
Date:
5 June 22, 2026
Administration
Al Guidelines — Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence Maintained by: IT Manager Version: 1.0 Last Updated: June 22, 2026
1. Purpose. These guidelines provide practical, day-to-day guidance on the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence ("Al") tools. The guidelines supplement —and do not replace —the Administrative Policy and Procedure No. 10 ("Al Policy"), which governs all Al use by employees (full-time, part-time, and temporary), contractors, interns, volunteers, and affiliated partners in furtherance of City of Bellflower ("City") business. These guidelines are maintained by the IT Manager and updated periodically as tools and best practices evolve. All persons authorized to use Al tools for City business are required to read and acknowledge these guidelines prior to use.
2. Approved Al Tools.
Only IT -approved tools may be used for City business. Using an unapproved tool for City business violates the Al Policy regardless of how widely used or seemingly safe the tool may be. a. Currently Approved Tools.
1. ChatGPT Business (OpenAl). The City's primary approved generative Al tool.
Approved for general productivity tasks including drafting, summarizing, editing, and research using non -confidential City data only.
2. Claude (Anthropic). Approved for general productivity tasks including drafting, summarizing, editing, and research using non -confidential City data only.
3. Microsoft Copilot. Approved if licensed by the City, for use within Microsoft 365 applications (e.g., email drafting, meeting summaries, document editing).
Employees must confirm with IT whether this tool is active in your account before use.
4. Embedded Al tools in existing software. Software platforms adopted internally may include embedded Al features. Such features are not automatically approved for use.
Employees who identify an embedded Al feature in any City software must notify the IT Division before use. IT will evaluate the feature and communicate whether it is approved, restricted, or prohibited.
b. Not Approved. Free, consumer -grade Al tools are not approved for City business. This includes, without limitation, the free tier of ChatGPT, Google Gemini, Meta Al, and other similar publicly available tools, or tools licensed with personally purchased licenses. c. Requesting a New Al Tool. To request evaluation of a new Al tool, contact the IT Division and provide the tool name, intended use case, and type of data you would enter. IT will evaluate the tool for security, privacy, vendor terms, and compliance.
3. Data Protection — What You May and May Not Enter.
The Al Policy prohibits entry of confidential and sensitive data into unapproved Al tools. This section provides practical guidance on applying that requirement. a. Permitted — Non -Sensitive Data. The following types of data are generally appropriate to enter approved Al tools:
1. Publicly available information and general research topics.
2. Draft documents, agendas, or reports that do not contain personal or confidential information.
3. General City communications and correspondence not containing resident, employee, or other stakeholder personally identifiable information ("PII"). For purposes of the City's Al Policy and these guidelines, PII is information that can be used to distinguish or trace an individual's identity, either alone or when combined with other information that is linked or linkable to a specific individual. Examples include, without limitation, names, addresses, email addresses, telephone numbers, social security numbers, driver's license numbers, financial account numbers, and employee identification numbers.
6 June 22, 2026
Administration
4. Internal operational content that does not identify individuals or contain sensitive details.
b. Use Caution — Internal / Operational Data. Exercise judgment with internal data. Where possible, anonymize or generalize content before entering it into an Al tool. c. Never Enter — Confidential and Sensitive Data. The following must never be entered into any Al tool, including approved tools, without explicit IT authorization and verified contractual safeguards:
1. Personnel records or HR -related information.
2. Employee, resident or other stakeholder PII.
3. Medical or health information.
4. Law enforcement records or related materials.
5. Legally privileged communications or attorney -client materials.
4. Employee Accountability and Output Verification.
The Al Policy establishes that employees are fully responsible for all AI -assisted or generated work product. The following explains what that means in practice. a. Review Everything. Always review and verify Al output before using it. Al tools can fabricate facts (known as "hallucinations"), produce biased content, or make errors. Never assume output is accurate without independently verifying key information. b. You Sign Off — Not the Al. Never submit AI -generated content as your own professional work without meaningful review and editing. The final work product is yours and carries your professional accountability.
c. No Automated Decisions Affecting People. Do not use Al to make final decisions affecting residents, employees, or other stakeholders (e.g., hiring, discipline, permits, enforcement) without substantive human review and documented approval. See Al Policy. d. Verify Before Publishing. Before finalizing any AI -assisted or generated work product, confirm: the information is factually accurate; the content is free from bias or discriminatory language; it complies with City policies and applicable law, and; it is something you are professionally comfortable putting your name on.
5. Acceptable Use.
The following guidance applies to day-to-day Al use. For the full list of prohibited uses, refer to the Al Policy.
e. Do.
1. Use Al to draft, edit, summarize, translate, or format documents and communications.
2. Use Al to brainstorm ideas, research general topics, or prepare outlines. Note that confidential and/or privileged material, such as confidential information or attorney -client confidential communications, must not be input into Al tools not expressly approved for such use.
3. Verify and edit all Al output before using or distributing it.
4. Use only IT -approved Al tools for City business.
5. Disclose Al use in public -facing documents as described in Section 6 below.
6. Complete required Al training before using approved tools. e. Do Not.
1. Use free or consumer Al tools for City work.
2. Rely on Al output without reviewing and verifying it yourself.
3. Share AI -generated content publicly without review and proper disclosure.
4. Retain Al prompts or outputs beyond their immediate use.
5. Use Al tools for personal, non -City purposes on City devices.
7 June 22, 2026
Administration
6. Disclosure.
a. Labeling and Attribution. When Al tools contribute substantially to the preparation of a public - facing City document, report, or communication, include a brief disclosure statement:
"This content was produced utilizing the assistance of artificial intelligence tools in accordance with City policy."
Disclosure is not required for minor AI -assisted edits such as grammar checking or light rewording.
7. Monitoring.
a. Monitoring. The IT Division will periodically review Al tool usage to verify compliance with the Al Policy and these guidelines. Department Heads are responsible for monitoring Al use within their teams and reporting concerns to IT.
8. Reporting AI -Related Incidents.
If you become aware of an AI -related incident violating this policy, the Personnel Rules, or applicable law —such as AI -generated content that causes harm, suspected misuse of Al, or a security concern —take the following steps immediately:
a. Stop using the Al tool involved.
b. Notify your supervisor as soon as possible.
c. Contact the IT Division.
d. Preserve all records related to the incident. Do not delete anything.
IT will coordinate the response with the City Manager's office as appropriate, consistent with the incident reporting requirements of the Al Policy. Retaliation against employees who report incidents is strictly prohibited.
9. Copy of Guidelines Provided to Each Employee. The IT Manager will provide a copy of these guidelines to each employee authorized to use Al tools. All users must, prior to using Al for any City purpose, sign an acknowledgment statement confirming that they have received, read, and understood these guidelines and the Al Policy. Copies of employees' completed statements will be retained in the individual employee's personnel file.
Approved: City Manager
Approved: IT Manager
Approved as to form: City Attorney
Date:
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TO: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
ATTENTION: Ryan Smoot, City Manager
FROM: Len Gorecki, Assistant City Manager/Director of Public Works Sarah Ho, Public Works Manager
SUBJECT: Consideration and possible action to authorize the City Manager to execute Amendment No. 1 to Agreement File No. 867.4, in a form approved by the City Attorney, with Stanley Steemer of Los Angeles for additional work required for the City Hall Flooring Recarpet, City Project No. 53701.
DATE: June 22, 2026
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This action would amend the existing contract with Stanley Steemer of Los Angeles for an additional $19,528 to perform additional work required to complete the City Hall Flooring Recarpet project.
RECOMMENDATION TO CITY COUNCIL
1) Authorize the City Manager to execute Amendment No. 1 to Agreement File No. 867.4 with Stanley Steemer of Los Angeles, in a form approved by the City Attorney; and 2) Approve the budget amendment as described in the Fiscal Impact section; or 3) Alternatively, discuss and take other action related to this item.
FISCAL IMPACT
Funding for the City Hall Flooring Recarpet - City Project No. 53701 in the amount of $110,000 is included in the Capital Projects Budget for FY2025-2026 in Account No. 011-53701-9000. A budget transfer of $20,000 from Account No. 011-47500-9000 (equipment purchases) to Account No. 011-53701-9000 is required to fully fund the cost of this amendment.
DISCUSSION
On March 23, 2026, City Council authorized the City Manager to execute an agreement with Stanely Steemer of Los Angeles for the replacement of the carpet in City Hall, City Project No. 53701. During a walk through with the Contractor prior to the start of work, it was identified that two locations were inadvertently omitted from the original scope of work.
Staff Report — AFN 867.4 — Amendment No. 1
June 22, 2026
DISCUSSION — Continued
The carpet in these rooms is of similar age and condition as the other areas included in the project, and staff determined that replacing the carpet in these rooms at the same time would provide a consistent finished product throughout City Hall and avoid the need for a separate future procurement. The proposed change order includes the Green Room as well as the upstairs Auditorium Office and the hallway leading to the auditorium dressing rooms. Inclusion of these locations will ensure completion of the carpet replacement project as originally intended.
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TO: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
ATTENTION: Ryan Smoot, City Manager
FROM: Jim Dellalonga, Director of Economic Development
SUBJECT: Consideration and possible action to authorize the City Manager to execute Agreement File No. 1005.2 with William Hezmalhalch Architects, Inc. dba WHA, in a form approved by the City Attorney, for On -Call Architecture and Design Services.
DATE: June 22, 2026
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This action would authorize the City Manager to execute Agreement File No. 1005.2 with William Hezmalhalch Architects, Inc. dba WHA for on -call architecture and design services in an amount not -to -exceed $60,000 for a three-year term.
RECOMMENDATION TO CITY COUNCIL
1) Authorize the City Manager to execute Agreement File No. 1005.2 with William Hezmalhalch Architects, Inc. dba WHA, in a form approved by the City Attorney; or 2) Alternatively, discuss and take other action related to this item.
FISCAL IMPACT
Sufficient funding is available in the Economic Development Account (510-42054-4002) for Fiscal Years 2025-26 and 2026-27 to cover the total contract amount of $60,000.
DISCUSSION
The project will consist of evaluations, conceptual programming, and coordination with staff regarding several different sites within the City. WHA will develop conceptual site studies for residential, commercial, and other uses while adhering to the various requirements of the Bellflower Municipal Code and/or applicable specific plans.
Additionally, the architect will attend meetings with staff and review program and project requirements in accordance with their services.
The agreement, if approved, will be retroactively effective from May 6, 2026, through June 30, 2029, for a total not -to -exceed amount of $60,000, with work authorized through individual task orders.
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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 authorize the City Manager to execute Amendment No. 1 to AFN 1043 with Corodata Records Management, Inc., in a form approved by the City Attorney, to clarify and update the fee schedule.
DATE: June 22, 2026
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The City Council approved Agreement File No. 1043 with Corodata Records Management, Inc. (Corodata), on May 13, 2024. The City's records were transferred from the previous records management provider to Corodata's custody. As part of the new agreement, the City received records storage services free of charge through December 2025 to help cover the costs associated with withdrawing the records from the previous provider. When Corodata completed the inventorying of the City's approximately 1,600 boxes of records, they discovered that there were box types and sizes included in the inventory that were not listed on the approved fee schedule in the agreement. This caused challenges when processing invoices. If approved, this Amendment will clarify the fee schedule to include the additional box types and sizes found in the City's current records inventory so that records storage services can be provided and billed without further interruption.
RECOMMENDATION TO CITY COUNCIL
1) Authorize the City Manager to execute Amendment No. 1 to AFN 1043, in a form approved by the City Attorney; or
2) Alternatively, discuss and take other action related to this item.
FISCAL IMPACT
Sufficient funds are budgeted in Records Management Account No. 010-43620-1200.
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TO: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
ATTENTION: Ryan Smoot, City Manager
FROM: Len Gorecki, Assistant City Manager/Director of Public Works Kimberly Gonzalez, Public Works Coordinator
SUBJECT:
Consideration and possible action to award a contract to Western Audio Visual for design -build services for the City Hall Audio and Visual System Improvements project, CIP No. 53603 and authorize the City Manager to execute Agreement File No. 1144, in a form approved by the City Attorney.
Date: June 22, 2026
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This action would award a design -build contract to Western Audio Visual (WAV) for the City Hall Audio and Visual System Improvements project, CIP No. 53603 (the Project).
RECOMMENDATION TO CITY COUNCIL
1) Award a design -build contract to Western Audio Visual for the Project and authorize the City Manager to execute Agreement File No. 1144 with Western Audio Visual, in a form approved by the City Attorney; or
2) Alternatively, discuss and take other action related to this item.
FISCAL IMPACT
Funding is included in the Capital Improvements budget in Account No. 040-53603-9000 (PEG Funds). The adopted budget provides $1,050,000 for the Project.
DISCUSSION
On April 3, 2026, the Public Works Department released Request for Proposals (RFP) No. PW-2026-01 for qualified Audio -Visual (AV) System Integrators to design, furnish, install, program, commission and train staff on a modernized audio-visual and broadcast system for the City Council Chambers and several associated meeting and operational spaces located at City Hall.
-1-
Staff Report — AFN 1144
June 22, 2026
DISCUSSION — Continued
On May 19, 2026, the City received 4 proposals. Staff along with consultant Tripepi Smith and Associates, Inc., evaluated all proposals based on experience and qualifications, the strongest solution best aligned with the City's requirements, their methodology and approach, and the cost. The final rankings based on these criteria were the following:
1. Western Audio Visual (WAV)
2. Vidiflo, LLC
3. Golden Star Technology, Inc. (GST)
4. EDIM Group, Inc.
Based on the rankings above, staff recommend award of a design -build contract to WAV.
Upon execution of the agreement, WAV will begin with the design phase. -2-
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TO: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
FROM: Ryan Smoot, City Manager
Karl H. Berger, City Attorney
SUBJECT: Consideration and possible action to receive and file the City Manager's directive to the Building Official regarding discontinuation of transmitting City building plans to the Consolidated Fire Protection District; and ratification of the City Manager's directive.
DATE: June 22, 2026
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
On May 27, 2026, the City Manager issued a directive to the City's Building Official instructing him to discontinue transmitting building plans to the Consolidated Fire Protection District of Los Angeles County (the Fire District) for review. The directive was issued in accordance with the Bellflower City Charter, the Bellflower Municipal Code (BMC), and the City Manager's authority as Fire Chief under BMC § 15.40.020(B).
The directive addresses a significant regulatory development: the Fire District continues to apply Title 32 of the Los Angeles County Code (the LAFC), which constitutes local amendments to the now -superseded 2022 California Fire Code. The 2025 California Fire Code (CFC), adopted by the City Council on September 22, 2025, took effect statewide on January 1, 2026, pursuant to Health and Safety Code § 18938.5. The County of Los Angeles has not adopted the 2025 CFC with local amendments. Because the LAFC is based on the outdated 2022 CFC, it has no legal force.
Staff recommend that the City Council receive and file the directive and ratify the City Manager's action.
RECOMMENDATION TO CITY COUNCIL
1) Receive and file the City Manager's Directive to the Building Official dated May 27, 2026, regarding discontinuation of transmitting City building plans to the Consolidated Fire Protection District; and
2) Ratify the City Manager's Directive to the Building Official; or 3) Alternatively, discuss and take other action related to this item.
-1-
Staff Report — City Manager's directive to the Building Official June 22, 2026
FISCAL IMPACT
Plan review costs associated with the Building Official's independent review of building plans for compliance with the 2025 CFC will be borne by permit applicants. Pending City Council direction, collection of such fees has been suspended. The City will no longer incur any costs associated with the Fire District's review of building plans.
BACKGROUND
History of the City's Fire Code Actions
Since 2019, the City Council has taken a series of legislative actions to ensure that building plan review within the City's jurisdiction is conducted under the California Fire Code rather than the Fire District's regulations.
In February 2019, the City Council adopted Urgency Ordinance No. 1371 and introduced Ordinance No. 1372, amending BMC § 15.40.010 to authorize the City's Chief Building Official to enforce the Fire Code pursuant to Health and Safety Code § 13869.7(h)(1)(B).
The action was prompted by concerns regarding the Fire District's failure to efficiently review building plans. The City notified the Fire District of the proposed changes, but the District provided no communication on the matter until 2024.
In October 2019, the City Council opted not to ratify the Fire District's regulations and instead adopted the 2019 California Fire Code, with local amendments (Ordinance No. 1381). The City Council again adopted the CFC with local amendments in 2022 (Ordinance No. 1421).
On November 5, 2024, voters approved Measure B, adopting the City Charter for the City of Bellflower, which expressly provides for local control over the City's municipal affairs.
On January 27, 2025, the City Council adopted Urgency Ordinance No. 1438 and introduced Ordinance No. 1439, amending BMC Chapter 15.40 to reaffirm the City Council's decision to utilize the CFC. Among other things, these Ordinances:
• Reaffirmed the Building Official's exclusive authority to exercise the authority in CBSC § 105.4, including issuing building permits;
• Redefined Fire Chief under BMC § 15.40.020(B) as the City Manager, while allowing the Fire District's Fire Chief to enforce the CFC in cooperation with the City Manager or designee(s);
• Authorized the City Manager and City Attorney to take actions including seeking opinions from state agencies and initiating litigation as needed to reaffirm the City's position.
-2-
Staff Report — City Manager's directive to the Building Official June 22, 2026
BACKGROUND — Continued
On September 22, 2025, the City Council adopted the 2025 California Building Standards Code, including the 2025 CFC, with local amendments, in accordance with Health and Safety Code § 18938.5. The 2025 CFC took effect statewide on January 1, 2026.
The Dispute with the Fire District
In September 2024, the Fire District, through the Los Angeles County Counsel's office, issued a cease -and -desist letter challenging the City's authority to adopt and implement the CFC independently. The Fire District demanded that the City stop performing independent plan checks and approvals, cease representing that the City has independent authority to enforce fire codes, remove its designation of the City Manager as Fire Chief, and adopt the LAFC.
The City's position is grounded in the following:
• Ratification Requirement. Health and Safety Code § 13869.7(c) provides that no ordinance adopted by the Fire District is effective until ratification by the city where the ordinance will apply. The City Council has not ratified the 2019 or 2022 versions of the LAFC; therefore, the LAFC has no legal effect within the City. The Fire District's own 2023 staff report acknowledged this ratification requirement. • Building Official's Exclusive Authority. Under CBSC § 105.4, as adopted by the BMC, the Building Official reviews building plans and issues building permits.
BMC § 15.40.010 affirms that only the Building Official is authorized to exercise this authority. The Fire District does not issue building permits. • Plan Review Distinguished from Enforcement. The City draws a distinction between enforcement of the fire code and review of building plans for purposes of issuing building permits. The City maintains that no statute or regulation empowers the District to hold a monopoly on plan review.
• Charter City Authority. As a charter city, Bellflower derives its police powers from the California Constitution, not from legislative delegation. Charter cities possess broad authority over municipal affairs, and special districts such as the Fire District have only the power conferred by statute.
Current Status of the LAFC
The Fire District utilizes Title 32 of the Los Angeles County Code as its fire code. Title 32 constitutes the local amendments to the 2022 CFC. As of the date of the City Manager's directive, the County of Los Angeles had not adopted the 2025 CFC with local amendments. Because the 2025 CFC is now effective statewide — including within Los Angeles County — application of the LAFC to building plans is not legally defensible. -3-
Staff Report — City Manager's directive to the Building Official June 22, 2026
BACKGROUND — Continued
The Fire District's Fire Chief confirmed during a January 13, 2026 conference call that the District's building plan reviews utilized only the LAFC, not the CFC as adopted by the BMC.
THE CITY MANAGER'S DIRECTIVE
On May 27, 2026, the City Manager issued a memorandum to Building Official Alan Cook directing the following:
1. Discontinue transmitting building plans to the Fire District. Building plans previously reviewed by the District before December 31, 2025 may be processed for a building permit after the Building Official independently determines whether they substantially comply with the 2025 CFC. Pending City Council direction, the cost of such review will be borne by applicants, but payment has been suspended pending Council consideration.
2. Continue internal plan review and permit processing under the 2025 CFC as incorporated by the BMC.
3. Coordinate with the Fire District's Fire Chief for enforcement of the 2025 CFC within the City, consistent with prior direction and in cooperation with the City's Public Safety Director. There is no legal authority to enforce the LAFC within the City's jurisdiction.
4. Refer enforceability questions regarding the LAFC to the City Attorney.
The directive does not alter the authority of the Fire District's Fire Chief to enforce the CFC, as adopted by reference in BMC Chapter 15.40, per CFC § 202.
RATIFICATION
The City Manager's directive was issued under his authority pursuant to the City Charter and the BMC, including his designation as Fire Chief under BMC § 15.40.020(B).
Ratification by the City Council will confirm the City Manager's action and provide an express directive supporting the discontinuation of transmitting building plans to the Fire District. Ratification will also affirm the City Council's continued commitment to utilizing the 2025 CFC — the applicable and current fire code — for building plan review within the City's jurisdiction.
ATTACHMENT
1. City Manager's Memorandum to Building Official dated May 27, 2026 -4-
City of Bellflower
MEMORANDUM
TO: Alan Cook, City Building Official
FROM: Ryan Smoot, City Manager
SUBJECT: Discontinuation of Transmitting City Building Plans to the Consolidated Fire Protection District
DATE: May 27, 2026
➢ Authority
This directive is issued in accordance with applicable law including Articles I I , III, and IV(C) of the Bellflower City Charter; Bellflower Municipal Code (BMC) § 2.08.020(A), (C), and (M); and as the Fire Chief as defined by BMC § 15.40.020(B). Nothing in this Directive alters the authority of the Fire Chief for the Consolidated Fire Protection District of Los Angeles County (District) to enforce the California Fire Code (CFC), as adopted by reference in BMC Chapter 15.40, per CFC § 202. ➢ Background
Before January 1, 2026, the City allowed applicants for building permits to transmit building plans to the District for review and comment related to CFC compliance. While the District is not authorized to issue building permits, some permit applicants sought the District's input on building plans for business reasons.
Only the Building Official is authorized to review building plans and issue building permits in accordance with applicable law (see, 24 Cal. Code of Regs. § 105.4, as amended by BMC § 15.40.010). The 2025 CFC (24 Cal. Code of Regs, Part 9) was published July 1, 2025 for local agency review and consideration.
On September 22, 2025, the City Council adopted the California Building Standards Code (Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations) in accordance with Health and Safety Code § 18938.5, with local amendments. This was accomplished per Articles II and III(A) of the City Charter; Health and Safety Code §§ 17958(b) and 17958.7(c); Governor's Executive Order N-4-25 (Jan. 12, 2025); and the Building Standards Commission's Informational Bulletin 25-03. The 2025 CFC took effective statewide on January 1, 2026 pursuant to Health and Safety Code § 18938.5.
➢ Current Status of Los Angeles County Code Title 32
The District utilizes Title 32 of the Los Angeles County Code as its Fire Code (LAFC). Title 32, however, constitutes the local amendments to the 2022 CFC. A review of applicable databases demonstrates that the County of Los Angeles has not adopted the 2025 California Fire Code with local amendments.' Because the 2025 CFC is now effective statewide — including Los Angeles County — and the District has not adopted local amendments, application of the LAFC to building plans is not legally defensible. Notwithstanding the legally indefensible status of the LAFC, the District's Fire Chief — as recently as January 13, 2026 during a conference call — confirmed that the District's building plan reviews utilized only the LAFC, not the CFC as adopted by the BMC.
1 See, www.dgs.ca.gov/BSC/Codes/2025-Ordinances (Accessed May 27, 2026).
-5-
Discontinuation of Transmitting City Building Plans to the Consolidated Fire Protection District May 27, 2026
➢ Building Official Authority
BMC § 15.04.040 incorporates the California Building Code (CBC) by reference and makes local amendments to the administrative regulations including, without limitation, CBC § 105. As a result, CBC § 105.4 states as follows:
"Permit issuance. The application, plans, specifications, computations, and other data filed by an applicant for a permit will be reviewed by the Building Official. Such plans may be reviewed by other City officials to verify compliance with applicable law. If the Building Official finds that the work described in an application for a permit and the plans, specifications and other data filed therewith conform to applicable law, and that the specified fees have been paid, the permit must be issued.
When the Building Official issues the permit where plans are required, they must endorse in writing or stamp the plans and specifications. Such approved plans and specifications cannot be changed, modified or altered without authorization from the Building Official, and all work regulated by the codes must be done in accordance with the approved plans." (Emphasis added).
Additionally, BMC § 15.40.010 affirms that "[o]nly the Bellflower Building Official is authorized to exercise the authority in CBSC Section 105.4, including, without limitation, issuing building permits." The BMC adopted the 2025 CFC with local amendments. That is the only law as to fire codes that applies to building permits issued within the City of Bellflower's jurisdiction. The LAFC does not have any force of law within the City.
➢ Direction
Based upon the foregoing, the Building Official is directed to
1. Discontinue transmitting or sending City building plans to the District. Any building plans reviewed by the District before December 31, 2025, may be processed for a building permit after the Building Official independently determines whether such plans substantially comply with the 2025 CFC.
Pending City Council direction, the cost of such review will be borne by applicants but payment will be suspended pending City Council consideration of the matter. All such reviews must occur expeditiously.
2. Continue internal plan review and permit processing under the 2025 CFC as incorporated by the BMC and administered through the City's established procedures.
3. Where fire code enforcement input is appropriate, coordinate with the District's Fire Chief in the capacity of enforcing the 2025 CFC within the City, consistent with prior direction and in cooperation with the City's Public Safety Director. Coordination with the Fire Chief should be for enforcement of the 2025 CFC as adopted by the BMC and in cooperation with the City's Public Safety Director.
There is no legal authority to enforce the LAFC within the City's jurisdiction.
4. Any questions as to enforceability of the LAFC should be referred to the City Attorney. -6-
C' p� LLFLpwk"h'
CR°WING TGGE1NER
staff r
report -
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 June 8, 2026, Regular Meeting of the City Council.
DATE: June 22, 2026
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
None
RECOMMENDATION TO CITY COUNCIL
1) Approve the June 8, 2026, Regular Meeting Minutes; or 2) Alternatively, discuss and take other action related to this item.
FISCAL IMPACT
None
ATTACHMENT
Minutes of the June 8, 2026, Regular Meeting of the City Council 2
c' Q BELLF,10,..
OR,
TOGVI-
MINUTES
CITY OF BELLFLOWER
REGULAR MEETING OF THE BELLFLOWER CITY COUNCIL
MONDAY, JUNE 8, 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
Mayor Santa Ines called the Regular Meeting to order at 5:32 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Bellflower City Hall, 16600 Civic Center Drive, Bellflower. 2 ROLL CALL
The following members of the City Council responded present to roll call:
Mayor Sonny R. Santa Ines
Council Member Ray Dunton
Council Member Dan Koops
Council Member Wendi Morse
It was moved by Council Member Koops, seconded by Council Member Dunton, and carried without objection to excuse the absence of Mayor Pro Tem Sanchez. 3 RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION
For the record, there being no one from the public in attendance, without objection, Mayor Santa Ines recessed the Meeting at 5:33 p.m. to a Closed Session regarding:
A CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR
(Pursuant to Government Code § 54956.8)
Property:
Agency Negotiator:
Negotiating Party:
Under Negotiation:
APN 7163-001-056 (no street address), 17246 Palo Verde
Avenue, and 17538 Dubarry Street
Ryan Smoot, City Manager
Paul Kott
Price and terms of payment
For the record, Closed Session adjourned at 6:17 p.m.
Bellflower City Council Minutes
June 8, 2026
4 RECONVENE FOR OPEN SESSION
Item No. 4
Mayor Santa Ines reconvened the meeting at 7:02 p.m., with Mayor Pro Tem Sanchez absent, and announced that no reportable action was taken during the Closed Session.
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 7:02 p.m.
6 ROLL CALL
The following members of the City Council responded present to roll call:
Mayor Sonny R. Santa Ines
Council Member Ray Dunton
Council Member Dan Koops
Council Member Wendi Morse
It was moved by Council Member Koops, seconded by Council Member Dunton, and carried without objection to excuse the absence of Mayor Pro Tem Sanchez.
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
Wangsu Lee, Assistant to the City Manager
Jennifer Russell, Management Assistant
7 INVOCATION
Council Member Ray Dunton offered the Invocation.
8 PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Director of Parks and Recreation P.J. Mellana led the assembly in the Pledge of Allegiance.
9 REQUEST TO APPEAR REMOTELY
None
Bellflower City Council Minutes
June 8, 2026
10-A CITY COUNCIL ANNOUNCEMENTS
Item No. 10-A
Mayor Santa Ines provided details regarding the upcoming Summer Streetfest starting June 18, 2026, on Bellflower Boulevard between Flower Street and Mayne Street and provided the concert schedule.
Council Member Morse encouraged the public to celebrate the Fourth of July holiday safely and responsibly and provided information regarding the City's policy on fireworks, noting that safe and sane fireworks are allowed, while illegal fireworks incur penalties beginning at $2,000.
Council Member Dunton provided details regarding the Bellflower Volunteer Center's school supplies drive, noting that donations will be received through July 6, 2026.
Council Member Koops provided details regarding the City's Summer Kick-off Event hosted by the Parks and Recreation Department on June 12, 2026, to be held at Caruthers Park.
10-B PRESENTATION: Certificate of Recognition to Planning Commissioner Bill Mendes
Mayor Santa Ines and his City Council colleagues presented a certificate of recognition to Former Planning Commissioner Bill Mendes for his years of service to the City in this capacity.
Former Commissioner Bill Mendez accepted the certificate and thanked the City Council.
10-C PRESENTATION: Update on City's Information Technology (IT) Systems For the record, City Manager Smoot introduced the item.
Information Technology (IT) Manager Todorov 1) provided a PowerPoint presentation regarding current and future IT initiatives; and 2) responded to Council Members' questions along with Director of Parks and Recreation Mellana, Assistant City Manager/Director of Public Works Gorecki, and Director of Public Safety McNerney.
For the record and the benefit of the public, Council Member Dunton stated that the City has a new mobile app that is available for download, noting that it is useful for faster and better responses to reports of graffiti.
For the record and at the request of Mayor Santa Ines, IT Manager explained that the California Joint Powers Insurance Authority (CJPIA) completed penetration testing of the City's network, noting they were not able to penetrate the network but provided feedback for improvement.
Bellflower City Council Minutes
June 8, 2026
11 PUBLIC COMMENTS
Item No. 11
Cheryl Williams, resident, requested and received clarification from Assistant City Manager/Director of Public Works Gorecki relative to the construction projects at the Thompson Park Aquatic Center.
In response to comments provided by Cheryl Williams, and at the request of Council Member Koops and Mayor Santa Ines, City Manager Smoot confirmed that staff would include information on the website and social media outlets regarding the construction projects at the Thompson Park Aquatic Center and note that the Aquatic Center remains open during construction.
Oscar Villagomez, Library Manager, Clifton M. Brakensiek Library, provided information relative to the Summer Lunch at the Library Program for all children ages 0 — 18 years.
Fred Taylor stated that he noticed that the City of Lakewood adopted e -bike rules and regulations and inquired whether Bellflower would be doing the same.
In response to comments provided by Fred Taylor, and at the request of Mayor Santa Ines, 1) City Manager Smoot confirmed that staff had internal discussion regarding the matter and could change ordinances if the City Council would like to do so; and 2) Director of Public Safety McNerney stated that e -bikes are not too big of an issue in the City, but they have had discussions with the school district, and can bring the matter back to the City Council for further discussion. 12 PUBLIC HEARINGS
A Consideration and possible action to continue the public hearing to consider the issuance of a cannabis business permit for a dispensary use at 9535 Artesia Boulevard; and
B Consideration and possible action to continue the public hearing to consider the issuance of a cannabis business permit for a dispensary use at 8846 Alondra Boulevard.
For the record, City Manager Smoot 1) at the request of Mayor Santa Ines, confirmed that public hearing Items 12-A and 12-B could be discussed together; and 2) introduced the item, noting that staff was requesting a continuance of the hearings to the next City Council meeting.
For the record, 1) Council Member Koops announced that he would need to recuse Items 12-A and 12-B as he has property interests within 1,000 feet of the subject properties; and 2) Mayor Santa Ines requested and received confirmation from City Attorney Berger that Council Member Koops may stay in the room if the Council continues the hearings without opening them.
Bellflower City Council Minutes Item No. 12-A&B
June 8, 2026 Page 5 of 8
12 PUBLIC HEARINGS — Continued
A Consideration and possible action to continue the public hearing to consider the issuance of a cannabis business permit for a dispensary use at 9535 Artesia Boulevard; and
B Consideration and possible action to continue the public hearing to consider the issuance of a cannabis business permit for a dispensary use at 8846 Alondra Boulevard — Continued
It was moved by Council Member Morse, seconded by Council Member Dunton, and carried by the following roll vote to 1) continue the public hearing to consider the issuance of a cannabis business permit for a dispensary use at 9535 Artesia Boulevard to June 22, 2026; and 2) continue the public hearing to consider the issuance of a cannabis business permit for a dispensary use at 8846 Alondra Boulevard to June 22, 2026:
AYES: Council Members — Morse, Dunton, and Mayor Santa Ines RECUSE: Council Members — Koops
ABSENT: Council Member — Sanchez
13 ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS FOR CONSIDERATION
None
14 CONSIDERATION ITEMS
A Consideration and possible action to receive and file the Senate Bill (SB) 707 Implementation Plan, establish and incorporate a Teleconferencing Disruption Policy pursuant to SB 707 into the City's existing procedural rules for conducting legislative meetings, and adopt Resolution No. 26-20 — A Resolution establishing procedural rules for conducting legislative meetings within the City of Bellflower, and superseding Resolution No. 25-13.
City Manager Smoot introduced the item.
City Clerk Ochiqui 1) provided a PowerPoint presentation of the Staff Report; and 2) responded to Council Members' questions along with City Manager Smoot and City Attorney Berger.
At the request of Mayor Santa Ines relative to the allowed number of uses for Council Members' remote participation, City Attorney Berger stated that a Council Member would not have a right to participate remotely beyond what is allowed by law, but the Council could take action to allow them to do so; however, stated that he would discourage the City Council from granting additional allowances.
Bellflower City Council Minutes
June 8, 2026
14 CONSIDERATION ITEMS — Continued
Item No. 14-A
A Consideration and possible action to receive and file the Senate Bill (SB) 707 Implementation Plan, establish and incorporate a Teleconferencing Disruption Policy pursuant to SB 707 into the City's existing procedural rules for conducting legislative meetings, and adopt Resolution No. 26-20 — Continued
Ruth Nuno, resident, expressed the opinion that Google Translate could produce misleading translations, but acknowledged the City's efforts.
Following discussion, it was moved by Council Member Koops, seconded by Council Member Dunton, and carried by the following roll call vote, to 1) receive and file SB 707 Implementation Plan; and 2) adopt Resolution No. 26-20:
AYES: Council Members — Morse, Dunton, Koops, and Mayor Santa Ines
ABSENT: Council Member — Sanchez
15 CONSENT CALENDAR
It was moved by Council Member Koops, seconded by Council Member Dunton, and carried by the following roll call vote, to approve the actions stipulated on the Consent Calendar:
AYES: Council Members — Morse, Dunton, Koops, and Mayor Santa Ines
ABSENT: Council Member — Sanchez
A Consideration and possible action to receive and file Warrant Register No. 26-121, dated June 8, 2026.
Action: Received and filed Warrant Register No. 21-121.
B Consideration and possible action to adopt the following resolutions affecting the November 3, 2026, General Municipal Election:
Resolution No. 26-21 - A Resolution calling for a General Municipal Election to be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, to elect City Council Members; and
Resolution No. 26-22 - A Resolution requesting the Board of Supervisors of the County of Los Angeles to consolidate the City of Bellflower's General Municipal Election to be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, with the General Election to be held on the date pursuant to Elections Code § 10403.
Action: Adopted Resolution Nos. 26-21 and 26-22.
Bellflower City Council Minutes
June 8, 2026
15 CONSENT CALENDAR — Continued
Item No. 15
C Consideration and possible action to direct the City Clerk to complete the biennial review of the City's and Bellflower Public Facilities Corporation's ("BPFC") Conflict of Interest Codes.
Action: Directed the City Clerk to perform the biennial review of the City's and BPFC's Conflict of Interest Codes and report back before October 1, 2026.
D Consideration and possible action to authorize the City Manager to execute Amendment No. 3 to Agreement File No. 245.1, in a form approved by the City Attorney, with All City Management Services, Inc. ("ACMS"), for crossing guard services for the 2026-2028 school years.
Action: Authorized the City Manager to execute Amendment No. 3 to Agreement File No. 245.1, in a form approved by the City Attorney.
E Consideration and possible action to adopt Resolution No. 26-23 — A Resolution adopting the annual appropriations limit for fiscal year 2026- 2027.
Action: Adopted Resolution No. 26-23.
F Consideration and possible action to adopt Resolution No. 26-24 - A Resolution fixing the tax levy for the maintenance of Vehicle Parking District No. 1 for fiscal year 2026-2027.
Action: Adopted Resolution No. 26-24.
G Consideration and possible action to approve the Minutes of the April 27, 2026, Regular Meeting of the City Council.
Action: Approved the April 27, 2026, Regular Meeting Minutes.
H Consideration and possible action to approve the Minutes of the May 11, 2026, Regular Meeting of the City Council.
Action: Approved the May 11, 2026, Regular Meeting Minutes.
Consideration and possible action to approve the Minutes of the May 26, 2026, Regular Meeting of the City Council.
Action: Approved the May 26, 2026, Regular Meeting Minutes. 16 COUNCIL REPORTS
Without objection, Mayor Santa Ines requested the meeting be adjourned in memory of Bo Mouissat.
Mayor Santa Ines and Council Member Koops made various comments and reports.
Bellflower City Council Minutes
June 8, 2026
17 ADJOURNMENT
Item No. 17
Without objection, Mayor Santa Ines adjourned the meeting at 8:14 p.m., in memory of Bo Mouissat, to the next regular Meeting of the Bellflower City Council at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, June 22, 2026.
Sonny R. Santa Ines, Mayor
City of Bellflower
ATTEST:
Mayra Ochiqui, City Clerk
Approved: June 22, 2026
OF 1 ELL1-L0,
SPEAKER SIGN -IN SHEET
(Voluntary)
BELLFLOWER CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING
June 22, 2026
PLEASE PRINT LEGIBLY
NAME
ORGANIZATION
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The City of Bellflower
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16600 Civic Center Drive, Bellflower, CA 90706
Tel 562.804.1424 Fax 562.925 8660 www.bellflower.org
NOTICE OF CONTINUANCE
OF
PUBLIC HEARING
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RE: Consideration and possible action to conduct a public hearing to consider issuing one Cannabis Business Permit for a dispensary use at 9535 Artesia Boulevard; and consider adopting Resolution No. 26-25 — a Resolution approving a Cannabis Business Permit to operate a cannabis dispensary at 9535 Artesia Boulevard; Applicant: 9535 Artesia Ave, Inc. dba Herb's Diner.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council, at its Regular Meeting of June 22, 2026, continued the Public Hearing to a Regular City Council Meeting to be held on Monday, July 13, 2026, in the Council Chambers at Bellflower City Hall, 16600 Civic Center Drive, Bellflower, California.
Said continuance passed without objection.
7J /
Maya O,6hiqua,.Cit
Jun 23, 2026
I, Mayra Ochiqui, declare as follows:
That I am the City Clerk for the City of Bellflower; and that at the June 22, 2026, Regular City Council Meeting, said Public Hearing was continued to the time and place specified in the NOTICE OF CONTINUANCE attached hereto; and that a copy of said notice was posted at a conspicuous place near the door of the room at which said meeting was held and on the Public Notices webpage.
I declare that the foregoing is true and correct.
Executed on June 23, 2026, at Bellflower California.
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Mayra �dhiqui, ity Cler
City of Bellflower, California
The City of Bellflower
.jaaulies. Jusinesses. julures.
16600 Civic Center Drive, Bellflower, CA 90706
Tel 562.804.1424 Fax 562.925.8660 www.bellflower.org
NOTICE OF CONTINUANCE
OF
PUBLIC HEARING
Gl�, OF BELLFLO,ER
CRU WINO ToGE'•
RE: Consideration and possible action to conduct a public hearing to consider issuing one Cannabis Business Permit for a dispensary use at 8846 Alondra Boulevard; and consider adopting Resolution No. 26-26 — A Resolution approving a Cannabis Business Permit to operate a cannabis dispensary at 8846 Alondra Boulevard; Applicant: OTC Bellflower LLC dba Off the Charts.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council, at its Regular Meeting of June 22, 2026, continued the Public Hearing to a Regular City Council Meeting to be held on Monday, July 13, 2026, in the Council Chambers at Bellflower City Hall, 16600 Civic Center Drive, Bellflower, California.
Said continuance passed without objection.
,/e( Mayr Och - ui, City'Clerk
June 23, 2026
I, Mayra Ochiqui, declare as follows:
That I am the City Clerk for the City of Bellflower; and that at the June 22, 2026, Regular City Council Meeting, said Public Hearing was continued to the time and place specified in the NOTICE OF CONTINUANCE attached hereto; and that a copy of said notice was posted at a conspicuous place near the door of the room at which said meeting was held and on the Public Notices webpage.
I declare that the foregoing is true and correct.
Executed on June 23, 2026, at Bellflower California.
Mayra Ochiqui, City Cter
City of Bellflower, California