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CITY OF BELLFLOWER
REGULAR MEETING OF THE BELLFLOWER CITY COUNCIL
MONDAY, AUGUST 10, 2026
5.30 P.M. CLOSED SESSION / 7.00 P.M. OPEN SESSION
BELLFLOWER CITY HALL - COUNCIL CHAMBERS
TELECONFERENCE - ZOOM WEBINAR
MEETING ID: 883 0182 2002 / TOLL FREE (669) 444-9171
5:30 P.M. - CLOSED SESSION
1 CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Santa Ines called the Regular Meeting to order at 5:33 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
Mayor Pro Tem Victor A. Sanchez
Council Member Ray Dunton
Council Member Dan Koops
Council Member Wendi Morse
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 5:34 p.m. to a Closed Session regarding:
A CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR
(Pursuant to Government Code § 54956.8)
Property: APN 7163-001-056 (no street address), 17246 Palo Verde Avenue, and 17538 Dubarry Street
Agency Negotiator: Ryan Smoot, City Manager
Negotiating Party: Paul Kott
Under Negotiation: Price and terms of payment
B CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR
(Pursuant to Government Code § 54956.8)
Property: 16730 Bellflower Boulevard
Agency Negotiator: Ryan Smoot, City Manager
Negotiating Party: Jeff Smith
Under Negotiation: Price and terms of payment
For the record, Closed Session adjourned at 5:54 p.m.
Bellflower City Council Minutes
August 10, 2026
4 RECONVENE FOR OPEN SESSION
Item No. 4
Mayor Santa Ines reconvened the meeting at 7:01 p.m., with all Council Members present, 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 7:01 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Bellflower City Hall, 16600 Civic Center Drive, Bellflower.
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
Staff Participants:
Ryan Smoot, City Manager
Karl H. Berger, City Attorney
Mayra Ochiqui, City Clerk
Len Gorecki, Assistant City Manager/Director of Public Works Elizabeth Oba, Director of Planning and Building Services Alan Cook, Building Official
Anthony Weimholt, Senior Plans Examiner
Alexander Salgado, Associate Planner
Anna Garan, Director of Finance
Wangsu Lee, Assistant to the City Manager
Jennifer Russell, Management Assistant
7 INVOCATION
Mayor Sonny R. Santa Ines offered the Invocation.
8 PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Director of Planning and Building Services Elizabeth Oba led the assembly in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Bellflower City Council Minutes
August 10, 2026
9 REQUEST TO APPEAR REMOTELY
None
10-A CITY COUNCIL ANNOUNCEMENTS
Item No. 9
Mayor Santa Ines provided details regarding the Bellflower Symphony Association's Annual Family Picnic Under the Stars to be held on August 22, 2026, at Caruthers Park.
Mayor Pro Tern Sanchez provided details regarding the Asociacion de Emprendedor@s program, a free eight -week business development course offered in Spanish from September 1 through October 20, 2026, in partnership with Heart Centered Leadership.
Council Member Morse wished Bellflower Unified School District students, families, teachers, and staff a successful school year and encouraged the community to exercise caution and prioritize student safety as classes begin on August 17, 2026.
Council Member Dunton provided details regarding the Bellflower Honors Program, which allows residents to honor local veterans through street pole banners and commemorative bricks.
Council Member Koops provided details regarding the free CR&R Compost Drive-Thru Giveaway taking place on August 22, 2026, at the Public Works Yard and encouraged Bellflower residents to participate.
11 PUBLIC COMMENTS
Eden Escobedo, Miss Bellflower Pageant Coordinator, addressed the City Council regarding the 2026 Miss Bellflower Pageant, 1) stating that the pageant was a well -attended and successful event; 2) thanking the contestants' families and friends for their support, dignitaries, and visiting royalty from neighboring cities who attended; 3) congratulating the 2025 Miss, Miss Teen, and Junior Miss Bellflower Courts for their service to the community; and 4) presenting the 2026 Miss, Miss Teen, and Junior Miss Bellflower Courts, who introduced themselves.
• Quetzaly Amezcua, 2026 Junior Princess
• Gia Gardea, 2026 Miss Junior Bellflower Princess
• Sydney Rivas, 2026 Miss Junior Bellflower Queen
• Ella Saucedo, 2026 Miss Bellflower Teen Princess
• Olive Belger, 2026 Miss Teen Bellflower Queen
• Miley Wong, 2026 Miss Bellflower Princess
Bellflower City Council Minutes Item No. 11
August 10, 2026 Page 4 of 17
11 PUBLIC COMMENTS — Continued
Cheryl Williams, resident, addressed the City Council regarding the Summer Streetfests, 1) expressing the opinion that the event was enjoyable and she was already looking forward to next year; 2) commending staff for coordinating the bands, ensuring public safety, and managing the event setup; and 3) at the request of Mayor Santa Ines , stating that the 80s All Stars, the first band, and the final band were her favorites, noting that the music was more to her taste and that she enjoyed dancing at the event.
Joyce Van Steen, resident, addressed the City Council regarding a code enforcement issue she experienced due to a leaning block wall at the back of her property, 1) thanking the City Council and staff for allowing her to share her experience and for helping her through the situation; 2) expressing appreciation to Andrew San Nicholas at Kingdom Causes for organizing volunteers who removed the wall in one day, 3) thanking the volunteer fencing company from Irvine for installing a new fence at no cost; 4) stating that she was grateful for the community assistance she received, noting that she had joined the volunteer list to give back by assisting others; and 5) submitting a written letter for the record. 12 PUBLIC HEARINGS
A Consideration and possible action to conduct a public hearing to consider adopting Resolution No. 26-30 — A Resolution creating a one-time exception to the Cannabis Business Permit application process established by Resolution No. 26-05 and allowing applications submitted during the previous solicitation to be reconsidered for an available dispensary Cannabis Business Permit.
B 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. 26-31 — 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.
CEQA: In accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (Pub. Res.
Code §§ 21000, et seq.; "CEQA") and CEQA regulations (Cal. Code Regs. tit. 14, §§ 15000, et seq.), an environmental review of the application was conducted in accordance with CEQA Guidelines § 15061. Following that review, it was determined that the proposed dispensary is included in the classes of projects exempt from additional environmental review under CEQA Guidelines § 15301 (Existing Facilities) and § 15302 (Replacement or Reconstruction) for the reason that it is an approved land use proposed for existing commercial and industrial buildings.
For the record, 1) City Manager Smoot introduced the item; and 2) Council Member Koops announced that he would recuse himself from Items 12-A and 12-B as he has property interests within 1,000 feet of the subject properties, and left the dais and Council Chambers at 7.19 p.m.
Bellflower City Council Minutes
August 10, 2026
12 PUBLIC HEARINGS — Continued
Item No. 12-A & B
A Consideration and possible action to conduct a public hearing to consider adopting Resolution No. 26-30 — Continued
B 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. 26-31 — Continued Assistant to the City Manager Lee 1) provided a verbal presentation of the Staff Report; and 2) responded to Council Members' questions along with City Manager Smoot and City Attorney Berger.
For the record, Mayor Santa Ines, 1) noted that Items 12-A and 12-B were related; 2) disclosed ex-parte communication with Larry Thacker of Herb's Diner and Tak Sato of STIIIZY; 3) stated that an email from Tak Sato was included in the supplemental materials provided by the City Clerk; and 4) explained that, following his discussion with Tak Sato, he directed him to communicate with the City Manager.
It was moved by Council Member Dunton, seconded by Council Member Morse, and carried without objection, to open the public hearing.
Mayor Pro Tern Sanchez, 1) disclosed ex-parte communication with Andrew Hausermann, Union Representative, UFCW 324, noting that he also directed him to contact the City Manager; and 2) disclosed that communications were also received from a representative of Herb's Diner, but there was no further communication.
Tak Sato, President and Owner, STIIIZY, 1) requested the opportunity to submit an application for consideration for the cannabis dispensary permit; 2) described STIIIZY as a large California cannabis company with 66 open retail stores and approximately $650 million in annual revenue, stating that its stores generate approximately $11 million in revenue per store; 3) emphasized the company's financial stability and record of timely tax payments across more than 55 jurisdictions; 4) described community involvement, including more than $40 million in donations to nonprofits and community benefits, employee paid time off for volunteer activities, and community cleanup and food events; 5) highlighted the company's unionization with the UFCW, including a collective bargaining agreement providing living wages, medical, dental, and vision benefits, and an employer -funded pension plan; 6) identified stores in Lynwood, Artesia, Long Beach, and Downtown Los Angeles, describing them as high -end retail locations; and 7) reiterated his request for the opportunity to submit a competitive application for consideration.
Andrew Hausermann, Union Representative, UFCW 324, 1) spoke in support of allowing STIIIZY to submit an application, citing the company's partnership with UFCW 324, unionized workforce, higher wages and benefits, and stable employment; 2) discussed the volatility of the cannabis industry and the importance of selecting an operator that can provide reliable jobs and tax revenue; and 3) stated that UFCW 324 represents more than 90 workers in Bellflower.
Bellflower City Council Minutes Item No. 12-A & B
August 10, 2026 Page 6 of 17
12 PUBLIC HEARINGS — Continued
A Consideration and possible action to conduct a public hearing to consider adopting Resolution No. 26-30 — Continued
B 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. 26-31 — Continued Mark Risk, resident, 1) expressed opposition to cannabis dispensaries in Bellflower, questioning the voter turnout and timing of the election that approved cannabis legalization; and 2) questioned the need for cannabis dispensaries in the City and expressed concerns regarding community character, potential impacts on crime, impaired driving, youth access, homelessness, and impacts to nearby businesses and property values, citing personal experiences and studies.
Larry Thacker, Chief Financial Officer, Herb's Diner, 1) requested the City Council approve Item 12-A, stating that he has worked with the City for nine years and has spent the past eight to nine months working to redevelop the proposed location; 2) emphasized that the project could be completed and opened sooner than competing proposals to start generating needed tax revenue; 3) at the request of Mayor Pro Tern Sanchez, stated that cannabis is safe and regulated, legal cannabis programs can reduce illegal operations, and neighboring properties can benefit from cannabis businesses through security measures and cameras; and 4) for the record, provided a letter from Herb's Diner's Owner/Managing Director Frieda Farshchian before the start of the meeting, which was distributed to the City Council and made available to the public.
There being no one else in attendance wishing to provide further testimony, it was moved by Council Member Morse, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Sanchez, and carried without objection to close the public hearing.
City Manager Smoot, 1) in response to an inquiry from representatives of STIIIZY, stated that there was currently no permit at the location and explained that they would need to meet with City staff to discuss the application process; 2) noted that the application period had closed, but staff remained available to discuss the process; 3) explained that not adopting the proposed resolution would result in continuing the existing process and allow the City Council to direct staff to open a new application period similar to the recently completed process; 4) stated that the City would accept applications, review required documentation, prepare the applications, and schedule the necessary public hearings before issuing a permit; and 5) estimated that the process would take a minimum of approximately three months, given the application review and public hearing requirements.
Mayor Santa Ines, 1) expressed support for competition in the cannabis application process, stating that applicants should be qualified and then considered through a competitive process; 2) compared the process to public works bidding and stated that competition would better serve the City; and 3) asked whether Herb's Diner would be required to pay a new application processing fee if the process were reopened or whether the fee could be waived given the recent application process.
Bellflower City Council Minutes Item No. 12-A & B
August 10, 2026 Page 7 of 17
12 PUBLIC HEARINGS — Continued
A Consideration and possible action to conduct a public hearing to consider adopting Resolution No. 26-30 — Continued
B 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. 26-31 — Continued At the request of Mayor Santa Ines, City Manager Smoot, 1) explained that under the existing process, Herb's Diner would be required to pay the applicable application fees, although the City Council could waive the fees or charge only for the staff time associated with the review; and 2) stated that the application and review processes would otherwise remain substantially the same.
Council Member Dunton, 1) expressed support for moving forward with Herb's Diner, noting that the business had been working with the City since January and that the process had already taken approximately eight months; 2) cited the loss of other cannabis -related businesses and emphasized the need for the City to act decisively to fill available cannabis permits, generate tax revenue, and avoid further delays; 3) stated that Herb's Diner had followed the City's direction, had an existing buildout and permits, and could potentially open sooner than a new applicant; and 4) expressed concern that prolonged uncertainty was unfair to applicants and inconsistent with the City's goal of being business -friendly.
Mayor Pro Tem Sanchez, 1) acknowledged valid points on both sides; 2) stated that at the prior meeting he supported approving Items 12-A and 12-B if there were no other interested parties, in order to save time and staff resources; 3) noted that STIIIZY and another interested party had since expressed interest; and 4) stated that, given the additional interest, he could not support approving Item 12-A without following the City's competitive application process.
Council Member Morse, 1) noted that no other applicants came forward during the prior application process aside from the two applicants that completed the process; 2) acknowledged that they followed the City's direction and were advanced to the next Council meeting; and 3) questioned why other interested parties did not come forward during the established application process.
City Manager Smoot 1) explained that the City initially had one vacant cannabis permit and established a competitive application process for that permit, which was publicly advertised and communicated to known cannabis retailers; 2) stated that two applications were received; 3) noted that a second permit was subsequently revoked, creating two separate processes that overlapped; and 4) explained that the City expedited the process because two applicants were available for the two permits, but under the normal process, a newly vacated permit would require a separate application period.
Bellflower City Council Minutes Item No. 12-A & B
August 10, 2026 Page 8 of 17
12 PUBLIC HEARINGS — Continued
A Consideration and possible action to conduct a public hearing to consider adopting Resolution No. 26-30 — Continued
B 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. 26-31 — Continued For the record, 1) at the request of Mayor Santa Ines, City Manager Smoot confirmed that the City could expedite the application process by shortening the application period, such as opening it for two weeks instead of one month; 2) Council Member Dunton, expressed frustration with extending the process and noted that the applicants were present awaiting the Council's decision; and 3) Mayor Santa Ines, stated that his priority was doing what was best for the City, expressing the opinion that competition would produce the best outcome.
It was moved by Council Member Dunton, seconded by Council Member Morse, and failed by the following roll call vote, to adopt Resolution No. 26-30:
AYES: Council Members —
NOES: Council Members —
RECUSE: Council Members —
Dunton and Morse,
Sanchez and Mayor Santa Ines
Koops
City Manager Smoot, 1) suggested removing Item 12-B because there was no open application period and a new application period would need to be established under the City's process; and 2) requested direction relative to the application fees for the process, specifically as they would apply to the existing applicant.
Following brief discussion, it was moved by Mayor Santa Ines, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Sanchez, to waive the application fee for Herb's Diner should it choose to apply through the new application process. Action on the motion was taken following additional discussion.
City Attorney Berger, confirmed that, pursuant to the City Council's direction, the application for Herb's Diner could be processed without an additional fee, unless minimal additional time and materials were required, such as updating a Live Scan or modifying the application.
At the request of Mayor Santa Ines, City Manager Smoot, confirmed that staff could accept applications within a two -week application period.
It was moved by Mayor Santa Ines, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Sanchez, and carried by the following roll call vote, to 1) waive the application fee for Herb's Diner if they choose to apply, with the exception of de minimis time and materials needed to update items such as the Live Scan or to process changes to the application; and 2) direct staff to shorten the application period to two weeks:
Bellflower City Council Minutes Item No. 12-A & B
August 10, 2026 Page 9 of 17
12 PUBLIC HEARINGS — Continued
A Consideration and possible action to conduct a public hearing to consider adopting Resolution No. 26-30 — Continued
B 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. 26-31 — Continued AYES: Council Members — Morse, Sanchez, Dunton, and Mayor Santa Ines
RECUSE: Council Members — Koops
For the record, Council Member Koops returned to the Council Chambers and dais at 8:08 p.m.
C Consideration and possible action to conduct a public hearing to consider adopting Resolution No. 26-32 — A Resolution adopting an updated Building Permit Fee Schedule to recover costs incurred from providing Building and Safety services.
For the record, City Manager Smoot introduced the item.
Director of Planning and Building Services Oba, along with Willdan Consultant Tony Trasher, Building Official Alan Cook, and Senior Plans Examiner Anthony Weimholt, 1) provided a PowerPoint presentation of the Staff Report; 2) responded to Council Members' questions along with City Attorney Berger; and 3) added that building and safety division fees is set at full cost recovery for the services being requested, so, what is included in the resolution is 100% cost recovery and after the publishing the staff report, about 11 permit fees that were found to be incorrect and correction were provided as supplemental material.
For the record, Mayor Santa Ines, explained that the fully burdened cost was intended to recover the City's costs associated with permit processing, inspections, and plan checks rather than generate revenue
At the request of Mayor Santa Ines, City Attorney Berger stated that, prior to 2024, the prohibition against gifts of public funds would have applied; however, now that the City is a charter city, the gift of public funds prohibition does not apply, and the City Council may determine whether an expenditure previously characterized as a gift constitutes a municipal affair.
Mayor Pro Tern Sanchez, 1) expressed concern that the proposed fee increases were unnecessary given the economic downturn and could negatively affect applicants; 2) stated that he supported eventually reaching fee levels comparable to neighboring cities but expressed concern about implementing a 50 percent increase at once, preferring a more gradual, scaled approach; and 3) suggested incorporating a Consumer Price Index (CPI) adjustment into the fee schedule, consistent with other City fees.
Bellflower City Council Minutes Item No. 12-C
August 10, 2026 Page 10 of 17
12 PUBLIC HEARINGS — Continued
C Consideration and possible action to conduct a public hearing to consider adopting Resolution No. 26-32 — Continued
Council Member Koops, noted that even with the proposed fee increase, Bellflower's fees would remain significantly lower than those of neighboring cities with similar economic conditions.
Mayor Santa Ines, noted that applying a CPI adjustment would not immediately bring the City's fees in line with neighboring jurisdictions because the City's fees are already comparatively low, stating that it could take many years to catch up.
Director Oba, 1) clarified that an annual Consumer Price Index (CPI) adjustment is already included in the fee schedule for future fiscal years, with adjustments applied if the CPI increases; and 2) confirmed that the CPI adjustment provision remains unchanged, although the City's fees would continue to lag behind neighboring jurisdictions.
Building Official Cook 1) explained that the proposed fees were developed using employee costs and estimated inspection and plan -check hours, based on extensive staff experience; 2) stated that the methodology was intended to be accurate and provide 100 percent cost recovery while remaining fair and conservative in estimating the time required for inspections and plan checks; and 3) clarified that the overall fee structure was designed to recover the City's costs.
At the request of Mayor Santa Ines, City Attorney Berger 1) stated that the proposed fees were legally defensible and consistent with the appropriate cost - recovery methodology; 2) explained that true cost recovery would require billing applicants on a time -and -materials basis for each service, which would be impractical for budgeting purposes; and 3) stated that the proposed fee structure provides a practical approach that closely approximates cost recovery while commending Willdan staff for their work.
Mayor Pro Tem Sanchez, 1) clarified that he was not questioning the fee methodology or the numbers developed by staff, but rather the timing and rollout of the proposed increases; and 2) noted that the City received complaints about fee increases in 2023 and anticipated similar concerns with the current increases.
Mayor Santa Ines, 1) acknowledged Mayor Pro Tem Sanchez's concern about the rollout of the fee increases, but noted that phasing the increases over several years could result in repeated complaints each year; and 2) expressed a preference for implementing the increases at once rather than generating complaints over multiple years.
Following discussion, it was moved by Council Member Dunton, seconded by Council Member Koops and carried without objection, to open the public hearing.
Bellflower City Council Minutes Item No. 12-C
August 10, 2026 Page 11 of 17
12 PUBLIC HEARINGS — Continued
C Consideration and possible action to conduct a public hearing to consider adopting Resolution No. 26-32 — Continued
There being no one in attendance wishing to provide public testimony, it was moved by Council Member Dunton, seconded by Council Member Koops, and carried without objection to close the public hearing.
It was moved by Council Member Dunton, seconded by Council Member Koops, and carried by the following roll call vote, to adopt Resolution No. 26-32, as amended:
AYES: Council Members — Morse, Dunton, Koops, and Mayor Santa Ines
NOES: Council Members — Sanchez
D Consideration and possible action to conduct a public hearing to consider adopting Resolution No. 26-33 — A Resolution authorizing the City of Bellflower to join the Statewide Community Infrastructure Program ("SCIP"); authorizing the California Statewide Communities Development Authority to accept applications from property owners, conduct special assessment and Mello -Roos proceedings, levy assessments and special taxes, form assessment districts and community facilities districts, and issue bonds within the territory of the City of Bellflower; approving form of acquisition agreement for use when applicable; and authorizing related actions.
For the record, City Manager Smoot requested that Item 12-D be continued to the next meeting as the City Attorney and the California Statewide Communities Development Authority's attorney are still discussing the resolution.
Following discussion, it was moved by Mayor Pro Tem Sanchez, seconded by Council Member Dunton, and carried without objection, to continue the public hearing to consider adopting Resolution No. 26-33 to the August 24, 2026 Regular City Council Meeting.
13 ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS FOR CONSIDERATION
None
Bellflower City Council Minutes Item No. 14-A
August 10, 2026 Page 12 of 17
14 CONSIDERATION ITEMS
A Consideration and possible action to receive, file and provide direction on the conceptual Arts District Overlay Zone (ADOZ).
For the record, Council Member Koops announced that he would recuse himself from Item 14-A as he has property interests within 500 feet of the subject properties, and left the dais and Council Chambers at 8.55 p.m.
For the record, and without objection, Mayor Santa Ines recessed the meeting at
8.46 p.m. for a brief break.
For the record, Mayor Santa Ines reconvened the meeting at 8.55 p.m. with all Council Members present, except Council Member Koops who had recused on Item 14-A (Arts District Overlay Zone).
For the record, City Manager Smoot introduced item.
Director of Planning and Building Services Oba, Associate Planner Alexander Salgado and Amanda Tropiano, Principal of De Novo Planning Group 1) provided a PowerPoint presentation of the Staff Report; and 2) responded to Council Members' questions along with City Manager Smoot and Assistant City Manager/Director of Public Works Gorecki.
Cheryl Williams, resident, 1) expressed enthusiasm for the project and its potential to bring creative activities to Bellflower; and 2) suggested allowing businesses to install security doors or similar security measures, subject to appropriate design standards, to protect their property.
Jaydee Dizon, resident, 1) identified herself as a Cal State Long Beach art school graduate and expressed support for developing an arts district, while noting that Clark Avenue currently has vacancies and would require significant investment and redevelopment; 2) compared the concept to the established Long Beach Arts District and questioned whether property owners would have the resources to fund renovations; 3) suggested Bellflower Boulevard may have greater potential because it already has existing development and activity; and 4) asked whether the City would provide funding or other assistance for improvements to Clark Avenue.
In response to comments provided by Jaydee Dizon, Mayor Santa Ines explained that the City was seeking to expand arts and cultural activity beyond downtown.
Maria Caretta, owner of Paint and Chat, 1) expressed support for the proposed arts district and an interest in opening a second studio while maintaining her existing location; and 2) noted that increased foot traffic and complementary businesses, such as a coffee or snack establishments, would encourage her to expand.
Bellflower City Council Minutes Item No. 14-A
August 10, 2026 Page 13 of 17
14 CONSIDERATION ITEMS — Continued
A Consideration and possible action to receive, file and provide direction on the conceptual Arts District Overlay Zone (ADOZ) — Continued Essen Meniibar, Custom Made Graphics, expressed support for the proposed arts district and recommended establishing clear guidelines regarding the types of artists permitted, including noise regulations for metal fabrication, welding, woodworking, and other artistic activities.
Following discussion, it was moved by Mayor Pro Tem Sanchez, seconded by Council Member Morse, and carried by the following roll call vote, to receive and file the staff report:
AYES: Council Members — Morse, Sanchez, Dunton, and Mayor Santa Ines
RECUSE: Council Members — Koops
Council Member Koops returned to the Council Chambers and dais at 9:43 p.m.
B Consideration and possible action to award a contract to Zoom Recreation, Inc., for the Friendship Square Public Sidewalk Redesign, CIP No. 53609; and authorize the City Manager to execute a contract with Zoom Recreation, Inc., in a form approved by the City Attorney.
CEQA: This contract is subject to the regulations of 24 CFR Part 58, which establish the environmental review requirements that further the purpose of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA). This activity/project is categorically excluded and converts to Exempt to 24 CFR §58.34(a)(12), as there are no circumstances requiring compliance with the federal laws and authorities cited in 24 CFR §58.5. Funds may be committed and drawn upon completion and certification of the environmental review for this exempt project. The project is subject to NEPA review because it is funded with HUD CDBG-CV federal funds.
For the record, 1) Council Member Morse announced that she would recuse herself from Item 14-B (Friendship Square Public Sidewalk Redesign) as she has property interests within 500 feet of the subject property, and left the dais and Council Chambers at 9:43 p.m.; 2) For the record, Council Member Dunton announced that he would recuse himself from Items 14-B (Friendship Square Public Sidewalk Redesign) as he has property interests within 500 feet of the subject property, and left the dais and Council Chambers at 9:43 p.m.
City Manager Smoot introduced the item.
Bellflower City Council Minutes Item No. 14-B
August 10, 2026 Page 14 of 17
14 CONSIDERATION ITEMS — Continued
B Consideration and possible action to award a contract to Zoom Recreation, Inc., for the Friendship Square Public Sidewalk Redesign, CIP No. 53609; and authorize the City Manager to execute a contract with Zoom Recreation, Inc., in a form approved by the City Attorney — Continued
Assistant City Manager/Director of Public Works Gorecki 1) provided a verbal presentation of the Staff Report; and 2) responded to Council Members' questions along with City Manager Smoot.
For the record, Assistant City Manager/Director Gorecki proposed an "Option 4" was developed and discussed in addition to the three options detailed in the presentation, which included modifying the fountain to convert it into a planter and return at a later time with a wholistic rehabilitation of the area.
Following discussion, it was moved by Mayor Pro Tem Sanchez, seconded by Council Member Koops, and carried by the following roll call vote, to direct staff to proceed with "Option 4" to modify the fountain into a planter, at a cost not to exceed $10,000:
AYES: Council Members — Sanchez, Koops, and Mayor Santa Ines RECUSE: Council Members — Morse, Dunton
For the record, City Manager Smoot noted that there may be additional Council action needed to return the unused $407,000 Covid funding and if so, an additional item would be brought forward to complete that.
Council Member Dunton and Council Member Morse returned to the Council Chambers and dais at 10:06 p.m.
15 CONSENT CALENDAR
For the record, 1) City Manager Smoot introduced the item; and 2) Council Member Koops announced that he would like to pull Item 15-B (Investments Report) for discussion only.
With regard to Item 15-B (Investments Report) and at the request of Council Member Koops, Director of Finance Garan 1) clarified that the figures on Schedule B page 18 were for LACPIF, a third -party investment, and were provided to show the investment's earnings and current value at cost and market value; and 2) added that estimated interest income from all City investments for the final quarter of FY 2025-26 is approximately $1.3 million.
Bellflower City Council Minutes Item No. 15
August 10, 2026 Page 15 of 17
15 CONSENT CALENDAR — Continued
Following discussion, it was moved by Council Member Koops, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Sanchez, and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, to approve the actions stipulated on the Consent Calendar:
AYES: Council Members — Morse, Sanchez, Dunton, Koops, and Mayor Santa Ines
A Consideration and possible action to receive and file City Council Warrant Register No. 27-021, dated August 10, 2026.
Action: Received and filed Warrant Register No. 07-021.
B Consideration and possible action to receive and file the Investments Report for the Month of June.
Action: Received and filed Investments Report.
C Consideration and possible action to approve Mayor Santa Ines's appointment of Dan Buffington to the Bellflower Unified School District's Citizens' Task Force for the 2026-2027 School Year.
Action: Approved Mayor Santa Ines's appointment of Dan Buffington to the Bellflower Unified School District's Citizens' Task Force for the 2026 2027 School Year.
D Consideration and possible action to award a contract to Good Soil Industries dba Kingdom Causes for on -call landscape maintenance services and authorize the City Manager to execute Agreement File No. 464.8, in a form approved by the Citv Attornev.
Action: Authorized the City Manager to execute Agreement File No. 464.8 with Good Soil Industries dba Kingdom Causes, in a form approved by the City Attorney.
E Consideration and possible action to waive further reading and adopt Ordinance No. 1459 — An Ordinance adding Chapter 12.45 to the Bellflower Municipal Code ("BMC") governing public tree management for the City of Bellflower.
CEQA: The Ordinance is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3). Here, the Ordinance is intended to provide a framework for the management, protection, maintenance and replacement of public trees.
Action: Waived further reading and adopted Ordinance No. 1459 adding Chapter
12.45 to the Bellflower Municipal Code governing public tree management for the City of Bellflower.
Bellflower City Council Minutes Item No. 15
August 10, 2026 Page 16 of 17
15 CONSENT CALENDAR — Continued
F Consideration and possible action to authorize the City Manager to execute Agreement File No. 990.1 with Jouveaar Limited, a California corporation, doing business as Williams Printing, in a form approved by the City Attorney, for on -call commercial printing services.
Action: Authorized the City Manager to execute Agreement File No. 990.1, in a form approved by the City Attorney.
G Consideration and possible action to award a contract to Ace Electric Inc., for the design and construction of Thompson Park Ballfield Lighting, CIP No.52602 and authorize the City Manager to execute Agreement File No. 1150, in a form approved by the City Attorney.
Action: Authorized the City Manager to execute Agreement File No. 1150 with Ace Electric, Inc., in a form approved by the City Attorney.
H Consideration and possible action to authorize the City Manager to execute Agreement File No. 857.3, in a form approved by the City Attorney, with George Chevrolet for use of City's property identified by separate instrument executed by City's City Manager and Licensee.
Action: Authorized the City Manager to execute Agreement File No. 857.3 with George Chevrolet, in a form approved by the City Attorney.
Consideration and possible action to authorize the City Manager to execute Agreement File No. 752.1, in a form approved by the City Attorney, with Michael Baker International to perform Phase II of the Caruthers Park Stormwater Capture and Infiltration System Assessment.
CEQA: Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) (Public Resources Code §§ 21000, et seq.) and CEQA Guidelines (California Code of Regulations, Title 14, §§ 15000, et seq.), the City conducted an environmental assessment. Based on the environmental assessment, the project was determined to be categorically exempt pursuant to CEQA Guidelines § 15303 (Class 1 — Existing Facilities).
Action: 1) Authorized the City Manager to execute Agreement File No. 752.1, in a form approved by the City Attorney; and 2) Appropriated an additional $382,000 to Account No. 320-42054-6022 in Fiscal Year 2026 27 to support the cost of this agreement, bringing the total budget for this account to $632,000. 16 COUNCIL REPORTS
Mayor Santa Ines, Mayor Pro Tem Sanchez, and Council Member Koops made various comments and reports.
Bellflower City Council Minutes Item No. 16
August 10, 2026 Page 17 of 17
16 COUNCIL REPORTS - Continued
At the request of Mayor Pro Tem Sanchez, Assistant City Manager/Director of Public Works Gorecki 1) stated that the Simms Park soccer field plans were submitted to the Planning Department for review the previous Friday and will undergo review, and then compiled and packaged for an Request for Proposal (RFP), which will be issued immediately; and 2) noted that as a charter city, they do not have to go with the lowest bidder, so the proposed completion timeframe can be built into the RFP and considered when awarding the contract.
With regard to the Council Chambers update and at the request of Council Member Koops, Assistant City Manager/Director Gorecki 1) stated that funding is already secured for the new sound system and room rehabilitation; and 2) the project has been awarded to a contractor under a design -build arrangement, and the contractor is currently working through the design phase, including the electronic equipment and related components.
17 ADJOURNMENT
Without objection, Mayor Santa Ines adjourned the meeting at 10:17 p.m., to the next regular Meeting of the Bellflower City Council at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, August 24, 2026.
I 26X � -
Sonny R. Santa Ines, Mayor
City of Bellflower
ATTEST:
hiqui, Citj-C k
: Septemb r 4, 2026